Everything you need to know before taking to the slopes
Courchevel may be known for exceptional chalets, Michelin-starred restaurants and a certain approach to Alpine luxury, but skiing remains at the heart of the resort.
With 150 kilometres of pistes within Courchevel itself and direct access to the 600 kilometres of interconnected skiing across Les 3 Vallées, a week here can be as relaxed or as ambitious as you choose. One morning might be spent cruising above Courchevel 1850, while another can take you across Méribel and towards Val Thorens without ever taking off your skis.
From modern lift infrastructure that keeps you moving across Les Trois Vallées to new culinary destinations and festive alpine traditions, this winter is less about dramatic change and more about refining an experience that already ranks among the world’s finest ski resorts. Whether it is your first time in Courchevel or you already know the mountain well, here is what to know before planning your ski days.
The season officially begins on 4 December 2026.
Skiing in Courchevel
One of Courchevel’s greatest advantages is variety.
The ski area stretches across the different villages of the resort, from Courchevel Village to Moriond and Courchevel 1850. Modern lifts connect more than 150 kilometres of local pistes, while the wider Les 3 Vallées pass opens the door to 600 kilometres of interconnected skiing.
That scale does not mean every day needs to become an expedition. Courchevel alone offers enough terrain for several days of skiing, making it perfectly possible for different abilities within the same group to enjoy the mountain without spending the entire day travelling between valleys.
And when you do want to go further, Méribel provides the natural gateway into the rest of Les 3 Vallées..
Starting point – Courchevel 1850
For many visitors, Courchevel 1850 is the natural starting point.
The central lift network around La Croisette provides straightforward access to the mountain, with skiing spreading towards areas including Verdons, Saulire, Loze and Jardin Alpin.
It is particularly attractive for mixed-ability groups. Beginners have dedicated learning areas and gentle pistes close to the resort, while more confident skiers can quickly head higher into the ski area or cross towards Méribel.
There is another advantage to skiing from 1850: the day does not need to end when the lifts do. Some of Courchevel’s best-known restaurants, terraces and après-ski addresses are nearby, making it particularly easy to move from the mountain into the evening.
Courchevel 1850, 1650, or 1550: Which Is The Best?
Courchevel remains one of the Alps’ leading skiing destinations. Each of Courchevel’s villages offers a slightly different way to experience the mountain. They share the same ski area, but the atmosphere, access to the slopes and pace of the day can feel surprisingly different.
Courchevel 1850 — For the Complete Courchevel Experience
Courchevel 1850 offers the greatest variety both on and off the slopes. Its central lift network makes it particularly convenient for mixed-ability groups, with beginner areas close to the resort and fast access towards Saulire, Loze and the connection into Méribel.
It is also where skiing blends most naturally into the rest of the Courchevel experience. Mountain restaurants, après-ski, boutiques and many of the resort’s most celebrated dining addresses are all within easy reach.
Choose 1850 for: exceptional ski access, luxury, dining and being at the centre of everything.
Courchevel Moriond 1650 — For Families & Relaxed Skiing
Moriond feels more relaxed than 1850 and is particularly enjoyable for families and intermediate skiers.
The area is known for wide, approachable pistes and plenty of terrain for cruising, while beginners have good opportunities to progress without immediately tackling more challenging parts of the mountain.
The village itself is lively enough to have restaurants and après-ski, but generally feels less formal than 1850.
Choose Moriond for: families, intermediate skiing and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Courchevel Village 1550 — For Easy Access to 1850
Courchevel Village sits directly below 1850 and offers an appealing middle ground.
You remain well connected to the main Courchevel ski area while staying somewhere quieter than 1850 itself. It can work particularly well for groups who care more about getting onto the mountain easily than being surrounded by the restaurants, boutiques and nightlife of 1850.
Choose Village for: convenient skiing, a quieter base and easy access to Courchevel 1850.
Experience Courchevel with The S Collection
Through our trusted network, The S Collection offers access to a carefully selected collection of ski-in/ski-out chalets in Courchevel , Jardin Alpin and Chenus, complemented by discreet concierge services including private transfers, ski instructors and in-chalet dining.
If you’re planning Christmas, New Year or February half-term, now is the time to begin. The most sought-after properties are often reserved well before the first snowfall.