Courchevel Villages Explained: 1850, Moriond, Village, Le Praz & La Tania

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.