Courchevel villages are not interchangeable bases within a single ski resort. Each altitude has its own atmosphere, access to the slopes, pace of life and style of accommodation. Choosing between Courchevel 1850, Moriond, Village, Le Praz, La Tania and Saint-Bon can therefore shape the entire experience of a winter stay.

Some travellers want immediate access to luxury boutiques, celebrated restaurants and the highest sectors of the ski area. Others prefer a discreet chalet, sunny family slopes or the atmosphere of a traditional Alpine village.

This guide compares the six villages and explains where to stay in Courchevel according to skiing priorities, privacy, dining, family requirements and the rhythm you want from your holiday.

Courchevel Villages at a Glance

Courchevel is organised across six villages at different altitudes. Together, they form one resort within Les 3 Vallées ski area, with connections provided by pistes, ski lifts and the local shuttle network.

Courchevel 1850: Luxury, Gastronomy and Central Access

Courchevel 1850 is the best-known of the Courchevel villages and the symbolic centre of the resort. It concentrates many of the destination’s prestigious hotels, private chalets, luxury boutiques and leading restaurants.

Its position provides direct access to the ski area and an efficient starting point for exploring the wider Three Valleys. Experienced skiers can reach higher terrain, while mixed-ability groups benefit from the range of lifts and services around La Croisette.

Life in 1850 continues beyond the slopes. Fine dining, shopping, spas, hotel bars and evening events make it suitable for guests who want a complete resort experience without sacrificing convenience.

Best for: first-time visitors seeking the most complete experience, luxury travellers, keen diners, groups with different interests and guests who prioritise ski-in/ski-out access.

Consider: 1850 is generally the busiest and most internationally recognised part of the resort. Travellers seeking a quieter village atmosphere may prefer Le Praz or La Tania.

Courchevel Moriond: Sunny Slopes and a Relaxed Atmosphere

Courchevel Moriond, historically known as Courchevel 1650, sits on a sunny side of the valley. Its broad green and blue slopes make it particularly attractive to families, beginners and intermediate skiers.

The village combines slope access with a more relaxed social atmosphere than 1850. Restaurants, bars and terraces create an enjoyable après-ski scene, while spacious chalets and residences are available around the centre and the Belvédère area.

Moriond is also conveniently positioned for Aquamotion, Courchevel’s large aquatic and wellness complex. This makes the village practical for families and groups that want non-ski activities close to their accommodation.

Best for: families, intermediate skiers, guests who appreciate sunshine and travellers seeking a balance between skiing and a relaxed village atmosphere.

Courchevel Village: Practical, Connected and Family-Friendly

Courchevel Village is located at 1,550 metres and was traditionally known as Courchevel 1550. It offers a quieter and often more accessible alternative to 1850 while maintaining a fast lift connection to the upper resort.

The village has accommodation, restaurants and essential services within a compact area. Its snow front is particularly convenient for families, while the toboggan run from 1850 adds another activity directly connected to the village.

Courchevel Village works well for guests who intend to spend most of the day skiing but do not require the boutiques and nightlife of 1850 immediately outside their chalet.

Best for: families, practical ski holidays, longer stays and travellers wanting efficient access without remaining at the centre of the resort’s busiest area.

Courchevel Le Praz: Authentic Alpine Character

Courchevel Le Praz sits at 1,300 metres at the foot of the mountain. Traditional chalets, narrow streets and a more established local atmosphere distinguish it from the purpose-built upper villages.

The village is also associated with the Olympic ski jumps used during the 1992 Winter Games. Modern lift infrastructure connects Le Praz efficiently with Courchevel 1850, while the surrounding forest can provide enjoyable skiing during low-visibility weather.

Le Praz is a compelling choice for travellers who value architecture, authenticity and discretion. Evenings tend to feel more intimate, while the upper villages remain accessible when required.

Best for: couples, returning Courchevel guests, private groups and travellers looking for an authentic village atmosphere with strong mountain access.

Courchevel La Tania: A Peaceful Base in the Forest

La Tania is positioned at approximately 1,400 metres in a forest clearing. Designed with a pedestrian-friendly centre, it has a calm, family-oriented identity and accommodation close to the slopes.

The village connects directly to the Courchevel ski area and the wider Three Valleys. Its forest setting gives it a distinctive character and makes it attractive to guests who want to step away from the intensity of the larger resort centres.

La Tania can also be a strategic base for skiers interested in moving between the Courchevel and Méribel sectors, although daily routes should always be planned around lift and piste conditions.

Best for: families, nature-focused stays, peaceful evenings and skiers seeking access to the wider Three Valleys.

Saint-Bon: The Historic Origin of Courchevel

Saint-Bon is the original village from which Courchevel developed. Located at approximately 1,100 to 1,150 metres, it retains a residential mountain identity with historic houses, narrow lanes and a Baroque church.

Rather than functioning as a conventional ski-in/ski-out resort centre, Saint-Bon is connected to the other Courchevel villages by regular shuttle services. It is best understood as a quiet heritage base for travellers who prioritise local character over immediate slope access.

Best for: longer visits, travellers with private transport arrangements and guests interested in the history and everyday life of the valley.

Courchevel 1850 vs 1650: Which Is Better?

The comparison between Courchevel 1850 vs 1650 is one of the most common decisions when choosing where to stay in Courchevel.

Choose Courchevel 1850 when your priorities include:

• the broadest selection of luxury accommodation;
• immediate access to high-altitude skiing;
• fine dining and luxury shopping;
• a lively and internationally recognised resort atmosphere;
• maximum convenience for a group with varied interests.

Choose Courchevel Moriond 1650 when you prefer:

• sunny and approachable slopes;
• a relaxed family environment;
• informal restaurants and après-ski;
• easy access to Aquamotion;
• spacious accommodation outside the busiest part of the resort.

Neither is universally better. The right decision depends on the profile of the group, skiing ability, preferred atmosphere and the amount of time guests expect to spend away from the slopes.

What Is the Best Area in Courchevel?

The best area in Courchevel depends on the experience you want to create.

• For luxury and gastronomy: Courchevel 1850.
• For families and sunny slopes: Courchevel Moriond.
• For convenience and value: Courchevel Village.
• For authentic Alpine character: Courchevel Le Praz.
• For tranquillity and forest surroundings: Courchevel La Tania.
• For heritage and a residential atmosphere: Saint-Bon.

The official tourism office presents Courchevel as one resort composed of six villages. The villages are connected, but choosing the correct base still reduces unnecessary transfers and makes daily planning substantially easier.

How to Choose Where to Stay in Courchevel

Before selecting a chalet or residence, consider five practical questions:

1. Does the group require genuine ski-in/ski-out access?
2. What is the skiing ability of the least experienced guest?
3. Are restaurants, shopping and nightlife important every evening?
4. Will children or non-skiers require regular private transfers?
5. Is the priority complete privacy or immediate resort access?

A beautiful chalet in the wrong area can make a stay unnecessarily complicated. The relationship between the property, slopes, ski schools, restaurants and planned activities matters as much as the property itself.

If you are still arranging transportation to the resort, read our guide to how to get to Courchevel. Guests planning an extended winter stay can also explore our guide to Courchevel seasonal rentals and private concierge living.

Planning a Private Stay in the Courchevel Villages

AR Privé approaches the choice of village as part of the wider travel plan. Chalet location, group profile, airport transfers, ski instruction, restaurant reservations and daily logistics should work together rather than being arranged separately.

Our Courchevel destination service supports private stays across the resort, from property selection to concierge assistance throughout the season.

For personalised guidance on choosing the right village and chalet, send a private enquiry to AR Privé.

Frequently Asked Questions About Courchevel Villages

How many villages are there in Courchevel?

Courchevel officially comprises six villages: Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond, Courchevel Village, Courchevel Le Praz, Courchevel La Tania and Saint-Bon.

Is Courchevel Moriond the same as Courchevel 1650?

Yes. Courchevel Moriond is the current name for the village traditionally known as Courchevel 1650.

Is Courchevel Village the same as Courchevel 1550?

Yes. Courchevel Village is located at 1,550 metres and was historically referred to as Courchevel 1550.

Which Courchevel village is best for families?

Moriond, Village and La Tania are all strong family options. The best choice depends on skiing ability, preferred atmosphere, childcare requirements and proximity to planned activities.

Which Courchevel village is best for luxury travellers?

Courchevel 1850 contains the greatest concentration of luxury hotels, private chalets, fine-dining restaurants and boutiques. Private properties in other villages can, however, offer greater discretion and space.

Can you move between the Courchevel villages without a car?

Yes. Ski lifts, pistes and free resort shuttles connect the different areas. Exact routes and operating times should always be checked for the dates of travel.

How to get to Courchevel depends on where your journey begins, the number of guests travelling and the level of flexibility required on arrival. The resort can be reached from Geneva, Lyon, Chambéry and Grenoble airports, or by train through Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains.

For most international travellers, a pre-arranged private transfer provides the simplest journey. Rail travel through Moûtiers can be an efficient alternative, while helicopter and private aviation connections offer a faster option when operating conditions permit.

This guide explains the principal routes to Courchevel and the practical differences between arriving by plane, train, car and helicopter.

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How to Get to Courchevel: Quick Comparison

Choosing how to get to Courchevel begins with comparing the principal airports and transport connections. The following distances and standard driving times are published by the Courchevel Tourist Office. They should be treated as indicative because winter traffic, snowfall and road conditions can extend the journey.

Arrival point	Approximate distance	Indicative driving time	Best suited to
Geneva International Airport	179 km	Approximately 2 hours	International arrivals and private aviation
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport	176 km	Approximately 2 hours	International and domestic connections
Chambéry Airport	95 km	Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes	Selected seasonal European flights
Grenoble	125 km	Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes	Seasonal and regional connections
Moûtiers railway station	Final mountain connection	Approximately 30 minutes	Train travellers arriving from France or Europe

Current access information and seasonal transport updates are available through the official Courchevel access guide.

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Getting to Courchevel from Geneva Airport

Geneva International Airport is one of the principal gateways for travellers arriving in Courchevel from the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East and other international markets.

The official road distance is approximately 179 kilometres, with a standard driving time of around two hours. Actual journey times may be longer during peak Saturdays, school holidays, snowfall or heavy traffic through the Alpine valleys.

A private chauffeur transfer is usually the most convenient option for families, groups carrying ski equipment and guests arriving on long-haul flights. The vehicle can be selected according to passenger numbers, luggage requirements and any additional stops.

Shared coach services may also operate during the winter season. Timetables and availability should always be checked for the specific arrival date before booking flights.

Is Geneva the Best Airport for Courchevel?

Geneva is often the most practical choice when flight availability is the priority. Its extensive international network offers greater flexibility than smaller regional airports, particularly for guests travelling from outside France.

However, airport convenience should be evaluated together with the final road transfer. A well-timed arrival can make the journey straightforward, while peak travel periods require additional planning.

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Getting to Courchevel from Lyon Airport

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is approximately 176 kilometres from Courchevel. Under normal conditions, the road journey takes around two hours.

Lyon offers a broad selection of domestic and international connections and can be particularly convenient for travellers combining Courchevel with time in France.

Private transfers, rental vehicles and seasonal coach services may be available. For larger groups, a private vehicle arranged around the confirmed flight schedule generally provides greater control over luggage, stops and arrival time.

Lyon is also connected to the French railway network, although travellers should compare the complete rail itinerary with a direct road transfer before deciding.

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Getting to Courchevel from Chambéry Airport

Chambéry is the closest major commercial airport listed by the Courchevel Tourist Office. It is approximately 95 kilometres from the resort, with an indicative road journey of one hour and fifteen minutes.

This shorter transfer makes Chambéry attractive when suitable flights are available. Its schedule, however, is more limited and often seasonal compared with Geneva or Lyon.

Guests considering Chambéry should confirm flight frequency, luggage arrangements and onward transportation before choosing it solely because of the shorter distance.

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Getting to Courchevel from Grenoble

Grenoble is approximately 125 kilometres from Courchevel, with an indicative driving time of around one hour and thirty-five minutes.

It can be a useful alternative for selected seasonal services. As with Chambéry, the quality of the overall itinerary depends on flight availability and the coordination of the onward transfer.

The best airport is not always the closest one. Flight timing, delays, luggage requirements and road traffic can matter more than distance alone.

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Travelling to Courchevel by Train

For travellers deciding how to get to Courchevel by train, the nearest railway station is Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains. From Moûtiers, Courchevel is approximately thirty minutes away by road under normal conditions.

Train services connect Moûtiers with Paris and other French cities, with direct or connecting routes depending on the day and season. Travellers should verify the current timetable through SNCF Connect.

During busy winter periods, reserving the final transfer from Moûtiers in advance is important. Taxis and scheduled bus connections can become limited when several trains arrive within the same period.

Paris to Courchevel by Train

The usual rail itinerary begins at Paris Gare de Lyon and ends at Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains. Some journeys require a connection, while direct seasonal services may operate on selected dates.

After arriving in Moûtiers, guests continue to their chosen Courchevel village by private transfer, taxi or scheduled coach.

Train travel can be particularly suitable for guests spending time in Paris before continuing to the Alps. It also avoids the need for a long airport transfer and can offer a more predictable journey during certain high-traffic periods.

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Driving to Courchevel

Travellers arriving by car follow the main road network towards Albertville and Moûtiers before beginning the final ascent into Courchevel.

According to the Tourist Office, the final journey from Moûtiers takes approximately thirty minutes in normal conditions. The road passes through the lower villages before continuing towards Courchevel Village, Moriond and Courchevel 1850.

Winter conditions require preparation. Travellers should check the weather, road status, vehicle equipment and parking arrangements before departure. Journey times should include a margin for snow, traffic and weekend changeovers.

Official road information can be checked through the services linked by the Courchevel Tourist Office.

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Arriving by Helicopter or Private Aircraft

Courchevel Altiport is located at an altitude of 2,006 metres near Courchevel 1850. It accommodates authorised private and commercial operations and provides rapid access to the upper resort.

The Altiport publishes indicative flight times of approximately 35 minutes from Geneva, 40 minutes from Lyon, 35 minutes from Grenoble and 25 minutes from Chambéry.

These connections remain subject to weather, visibility, aircraft capability, operating permissions and the assessment of the authorised provider. They should therefore be considered part of a carefully coordinated itinerary rather than treated as a guaranteed transfer.

Technical information is available on the official Courchevel Altiport page.

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Reaching the Different Courchevel Villages

The final destination should always be confirmed before booking transportation. Courchevel is composed of several villages positioned at different levels of the valley, including Saint-Bon, Le Praz, La Tania, Courchevel Village, Courchevel Moriond and Courchevel 1850.

A transfer to Le Praz is not identical to a transfer to Courchevel 1850. The precise chalet or hotel address affects the final driving time, luggage handling and arrival arrangements.

Once in the resort, free shuttle services connect the different villages and neighbouring hamlets. Real-time information is available through the Mobilité Courchevel system described in the official Courchevel mobility guide.

For a detailed comparison of the villages, their atmosphere and the type of stay each one offers, consult our upcoming guide to Courchevel’s villages and altitudes.

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Which Route to Courchevel Should You Choose?

For International Travellers

Geneva usually provides the widest choice of international flights. A private transfer can then connect the airport directly with the accommodation.

For Travellers Arriving from Paris

The train to Moûtiers can offer a comfortable alternative, especially when schedules align with the planned check-in time.

For the Shortest Standard Road Transfer

Chambéry is the closest major airport in the official Courchevel comparison, but seasonal flight availability must be considered.

For Maximum Time Efficiency

A helicopter or authorised private flight to Courchevel Altiport may significantly shorten the transfer. A road alternative should still be prepared in case operating conditions change.

For Families and Larger Groups

A private vehicle arranged according to passenger numbers, luggage and ski equipment normally offers the greatest continuity from arrival to the chalet or hotel.

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AR Privé Arrival Planning

Understanding how to get to Courchevel smoothly requires planning the complete journey before the flight or train departs. The transport choice should reflect the full itinerary rather than only the advertised transfer time.

AR Privé can coordinate the arrival around flight or rail details, group size, luggage, ski equipment and the exact accommodation address. Where appropriate, this may include a private chauffeur, assistance with the Moûtiers connection or coordination with an authorised aviation provider.

Our role is to connect each stage of the journey so that guests are not left managing separate suppliers during arrival.

Discover our Courchevel destination guide, learn about private seasonal stays in Courchevel, or explore our private concierge services.

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Once you arrive in the resort, the location of your accommodation will influence transfers, ski access and daily planning. Compare the six Courchevel villages to identify the most suitable base for your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Closest Airport to Courchevel?

Among the principal commercial airports listed by the Courchevel Tourist Office, Chambéry is the closest at approximately 95 kilometres. Geneva and Lyon generally provide a wider range of international connections.

What Is the Nearest Train Station to Courchevel?

Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains is the nearest railway station. The final road transfer to Courchevel takes approximately thirty minutes in normal conditions.

How Long Does It Take to Get from Geneva to Courchevel?

The Courchevel Tourist Office indicates approximately two hours by road. Travellers should allow additional time during snowfall, school holidays and peak weekend traffic.

Can You Fly Directly to Courchevel?

Courchevel has an Altiport serving authorised private and commercial operations. All flights depend on weather, aircraft requirements, permissions and the operating provider.

Do You Need a Car in Courchevel?

Not necessarily. Free shuttles connect the resort’s villages, while taxis, private chauffeurs and certain ski lifts provide additional local mobility.

What Is the Most Convenient Way to Reach Courchevel?

For many international visitors, the most convenient solution is a direct private transfer from Geneva or Lyon. The best option ultimately depends on flight schedules, group size, luggage and the precise destination within Courchevel.

Planning your arrival? Contact AR Privé for private assistance with your Courchevel stay.

A Courchevel seasonal rental is not simply a place to visit for a week. For many international families, entrepreneurs and private offices, it becomes a winter base: a place to arrive, settle in and live exceptionally well throughout the season.

A private chalet changes the rhythm of an Alpine stay. Mornings can begin at your own pace. Children can follow a familiar routine. Friends can arrive for a long weekend without changing the atmosphere of the house. Staff, transport, dining, ski arrangements and wellness become part of one considered system rather than a series of separate bookings.

For winter 2026–2027, Courchevel is scheduled to open from 4 December 2026 to 18 April 2027. The connections across Les 3 Vallées are scheduled from 5 December 2026, subject to weather and operating conditions. Information can be verified through Les 3 Vallées.

At AR Privé, we curate private seasonal stays in Courchevel for guests who value discretion, continuity and a single trusted point of contact.

Courchevel as a Private Winter Base

A seasonal stay has different requirements from a conventional ski holiday.

The question is not only where to sleep. It is how the property will support daily life over several weeks: arrival routines, children’s schedules, preferred staff, privacy, ski access, household preferences, entertaining and the freedom to change plans without friction.

Courchevel is particularly suited to this way of travelling. The valley itself offers 150 km of marked pistes across six connected villages, while its position within Les 3 Vallées gives access to a 600 km interconnected ski area. These figures are confirmed by Courchevel Tourism.

This scale gives every member of a group room to follow their own rhythm. Some guests may ski all day; others may prefer a late start, lunch on the mountain, a treatment at home or a quiet afternoon by the fire. A private stay works best when these choices can exist side by side.

What Matters in a Courchevel Seasonal Rental

For a seasonal residence, the right property is never selected on photographs alone.

Privacy, internal flow, staff accommodation, ski access, transport routes and entertaining space all matter. So do smaller details: a dedicated boot room, wellness facilities, a practical entrance in winter weather, secure parking and enough flexibility for visiting guests.

Courchevel 1850 may suit guests who want immediate access to the resort’s dining, boutiques and ski infrastructure. Le Praz, Courchevel Village, Courchevel Moriond and La Tania each offer a different relationship with the mountain, from quieter village character to a more wooded or family-oriented rhythm.

The most suitable base depends on the household, not on a universal definition of luxury.

Each area offers a different balance of ski access, privacy and village life. Before selecting a seasonal property, compare the Courchevel villages and where to stay to identify the most suitable base for your household.

A luxury chalet rental in Courchevel should feel effortless after the first day. The house should support the way the family actually lives, rather than asking the family to adapt to it.

A Private Concierge for the Whole Season

A private concierge in Courchevel is not only there to make restaurant reservations. At seasonal level, the role is closer to quiet lifestyle management.

It begins before arrival: preparing the home, coordinating transfers, understanding household preferences, arranging ski equipment, confirming staff and creating a plan that can evolve with the guests.

During the season, the same point of contact can coordinate:

• Private drivers, airport and altiport logistics;
• Ski instructors, guides and equipment;
• Household staffing, chefs and private dining;
• Wellness practitioners and in-home treatments;
• Childcare and family activities;
• Discreet security or close-protection arrangements where appropriate;
• Restaurant, event and private experience planning;
• Arrivals of friends, relatives or business guests.

The value is not in filling every hour. It is in knowing that every detail is already understood when it matters.

Living Well Beyond the Slopes

Courchevel offers much more than skiing. Its official winter activity programme includes ski touring, snowshoeing, dog sledding, tobogganing, Nordic walking and indoor options such as Aquamotion, the ice rink and bowling. Current activities can be checked through Courchevel Tourism.

For a family staying through a significant part of the season, variety is essential. A great winter should not feel repetitive by February. Some days should be energetic and social; others should be private and restorative.

This is where local knowledge matters. An itinerary must respond to the weather, the guests’ energy, the age of the children and what is happening in the resort that particular week. A plan created in advance should create freedom, not pressure.

Courchevel Dining, at Home and in the Resort

Dining is central to the Courchevel experience, whether it is a relaxed family lunch, a private celebration or a quiet evening at home.

Courchevel Tourism’s gastronomy guide highlights the destination’s mix of Alpine cuisine, international restaurants and Michelin-starred dining.

For seasonal guests, the best approach is rarely to book every dinner in advance. A stronger system combines a short list of priority reservations with the flexibility to dine at home when privacy feels more valuable than being seen.

A private chef, carefully chosen wines and a table shaped around the household can often become the most memorable evening of the week. The distinction is simple: the stay should adapt to the guests, not the other way around.

Planning the 2026–2027 Winter Season

The timing of a Courchevel stay changes the experience.

December offers the anticipation of the opening weeks and the festive period. January can appeal to guests seeking a quieter rhythm after New Year. February requires early planning around school holidays and family travel. March brings longer days and a more relaxed social atmosphere, while April can be attractive for guests who enjoy spring light, mountain lunches and a less formal pace.

The wider French Alps remain one of Europe’s defining winter destinations, with Courchevel positioned within the internationally recognised Les 3 Vallées area. Further destination context is available through Explore France, the official French tourism website.

For the most sought-after dates, planning should begin early. The best properties, preferred staff, private instructors and key dining requests all become more difficult to secure as the season approaches.

The AR Privé Approach

AR Privé works with guests who do not want to manage a holiday from their phone.

We select private homes around the needs of the stay, then build the operating rhythm around the household: who is arriving, how long they will stay, what privacy means to them and what type of mountain life they want to create.

Our role is discreet. We do not impose a programme. We prepare the details, remain available and make the season feel easy from the first arrival to the final departure.

For guests who divide their year between the Alps and the Mediterranean, AR Privé also offers continuity between Courchevel and Mykonos: two distinct destinations, managed with the same understanding of privacy, service and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Courchevel winter season 2026–2027?

Courchevel is currently scheduled to operate from 4 December 2026 to 18 April 2027. The wider Les 3 Vallées connections are scheduled from 5 December 2026 to 18 April 2027. Live lift and weather conditions should always be checked before travel.

Can AR Privé arrange a seasonal chalet rental in Courchevel?

Yes. AR Privé can assist with selecting a suitable private home and coordinating the services required for a seasonal or extended stay.

What can a private concierge in Courchevel arrange?

Depending on the guest’s needs, support can include transfers, ski services, household staffing, private chefs, dining, wellness, childcare, security and private experiences.

When should a Courchevel seasonal stay be planned?

For festive dates, February holidays and the most sought-after homes, planning several months in advance offers the strongest choice and the most flexibility.

Still planning your arrival? Read our complete guide on how to get to Courchevel by airport, train, private transfer or helicopter.

Begin Planning Your Private Courchevel Season

Explore our Courchevel destination, discover AR Privé concierge services or send a private enquiry.

Last factual review: August 2026. Opening dates, events, lift operations and availability remain subject to change.