Published on December 05, 2024Updated on December 10, 2024
Looking for a change from the Mediterranean scenery? Try a trip to the snowy peaks of Courchevel. For a mountain getaway, this is the must-see destination in the Alps. The Savoy resort is one of the most famous in the world, and for good reason. Sublime scenery, exceptional skiing, entertainment all year round, a chic and glamorous setting... If you love Monaco, you’ll love Courchevel! Let’s take a look at this jewel of the Alps.
In the heart of the Alps
How do you get to Courchevel from Monaco? The Principality is 500 km from the winter sports resort. If the six-hour drive seems too long, the best solution is to book a helicopter trip. The Courchevel altiport is just 1 hour away, and is accessible in both summer and winter. At an altitude of 2,000 metres, it is the highest aerodrome in Europe. You’ll be ready to hit the slopes in no time!
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
A benchmark in mountain sports
A paradise for winter sports fans, Courchevel provides access to Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area. The incredible slopes feature 600 km of pistes, and are renowned for their top-quality grooming. Those who prefer to take their time admiring the breathtaking scenery can try snowshoeing or dog-sledding. In summer, the pastures are ideal for bucolic walks, while the peaks are perfect for hikes and treks. Golf, tennis, via ferrata... the sports enthusiasts will all find something to love. And to recharge your batteries, there’s nothing like a break in one of Courchevel’s many spas... This isn’t just a sports resort—it’s also a haven for relaxation.
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
Six villages and one legendary resort
As you climb higher up the Tarentaise valley, the six villages of Courchevel come into view. The first is Saint-Bon, the original mountain village with its Baroque church, then Le Praz and the irresistible charm of its chalets. A bend in the forest leads to La Tania, a pedestrian resort, then Courchevel Village and Courchevel Moriond, at the foot of the slopes. Last but not least, Courchevel 1850 is the legendary, pioneering resort that catches everyone’s eye. It was the first in the valley to be developed in 1946. Today, it combines excellence and glamour, with its luxury chalets, famous locations and unique atmosphere, imbued with a chic, festive mountain spirit.
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
The resort with many bests
Courchevel 1850 offers the prestige of one of the most luxurious ski resorts on the planet. With seven Michelin-starred restaurants, it is Europe's most Michelin-starred mountain resort (13 in total), earning it a pristine reputation among gourmets. Around La Croisette, the beating heart of Courchevel, the elegant chalets are home to a host of luxury boutiques. Dior, Cartier, Prada, Chanel, Moncler, Fendi... the finest fashion and jewellery brands, designers and art galleries will delight shopping enthusiasts. Every winter, Courchevel 1850 is also a must-see holiday destination. For après-ski or all-night dancing, its private bars and clubs provide an exuberant VIP atmosphere.
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
Alpine scenery in all its splendour
Another highlight of the Courchevel experience is its exceptional natural setting. From the panoramic Col de la Loze path, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. At the summit of La Saulire, the resort’s highest point at 2738 m, the mountain scenery unfolds in all its splendour, while at the very top of Le Signal (2240 m), the brightest star in the Alps comes into view: Mont Blanc. Another must-do is the enchanting walk to Lac de la Rosière, nestled away in the forest. In winter, the snow-covered fir trees and thick, immaculate mantle create a fairytale setting all around the frozen lake.
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
Courchevel: an event-filled resort
Like Monaco, Courchevel is alive and kicking all year round. A lover of the arts, sport and festivities, the Savoy resort devotes a number of major events to them. Every winter, it is transformed into an open-air museum through L’Art au sommet, an art exhibition in the heart of the resort and its ski area. In February and March, the fireworks at the Festival d’art pyrotechnique set the skies of Courchevel ablaze with exceptional shows. Other highlights include the women’s Alpine Ski World Cup in December, which brings together the world’s elite, and the amateur 3 Vallées Enduro charity ski race in April, as well as the Alti’Fest music festival in July.
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
Monaco and Courchevel, two faces of excellence
On one hand, you have the Mediterranean shores of Monaco and the gentle way of life in the South. On the other, you have the heart of the Alps and the ‘mountain chic’ spirit of Courchevel. Both so different, and yet both driven by the same quest for excellence. With just a helicopter trip from Monaco to Courchevel, you can go from visiting the seaside to hitting the world’s most famous ski slopes in just a few hours—perhaps the best way to enjoy the high live in these two fascinating and exclusive destinations.
Photo credit: Courchevel Tourisme
You might also like…
City Break : Family
Family holidays in Monaco with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer: hotels where children are pampered...
Guide to child-friendly activities in Monaco
Discover fun and creative activities for all the family in Monaco, where our Resort offers an unforgettable kids-friendly experience on the Côte d'Azur!
What to Do in Monaco for a Weekend
Find out more to enjoy a weekend of relaxation, tourism, glamour and shopping in Monaco.
