Parents always have fears that their older kids will become bored or not have a good time on holiday. This is an understandable concern, as there is nothing worse than putting up with a moody teenager whilst abroad! It is for this reason that I think it is crucial to pick somewhere that has many activities to keep them happy and entertained at all times.
Skiing is a fantastic option, especially when you pick superb resorts like Courchevel. Situated in the world-famous Le Trois Vallées region in the French Alps, this resort boasts fantastic skiing, as well as a plethora of activities for older children to enjoy. This should keep even the grumpiest of teens happy!
Venturing into Le Trois Vallées? Read up on the region with this article.
Here are a few of the excellent activities which your older kids may enjoy here.
In the Snow
- Indian Camp – This fun activity takes place on the Indian piste in Moriond and sees you learn about American Indian traditions. It involves wearing war paint and traditional costumes, learning how to hunt with a bow and arrow, singing songs around a campfire and plenty more. Entry to the camp is free but donations for the activities are welcomed.
- Sledging – Everyone loves sledging when the snow falls, but this is much more epic in the Alps. Courchevel boasts an exhilarating toboggan run through the forest, which lasts 2km and has a 300m difference in altitude between the beginning and end. You can even do this under the stars at night thanks to the floodlights.
- Snow Cat Driving – Watching powerful snow cats bash the snow and groom the slopes is fascinating, but this unique experience puts you behind the wheel. It gives you the chance to learn how to operate one of these impressive machines and move the snow yourself. Driving on a track with an instructor will cost €90 per person.
- Snowshoeing – Embark on an incredible adventure and explore Courchevel’s hidden gems with a snowshoe excursion. Older kids love an alternative and off-the-beaten-path activity: here they can explore the forest, get close to the river and its breathtaking ice crystals and follow animal trails. The single rate for 1 to 8 people with a qualified mountain leader is €200 for half a day.
- Snowmobile Rides – You can be sure that any older child will be desperate to jump on a snowmobile. This is a fun activity that allows you to enjoy great views as you tear through the snow. Safe circuits have been designed for this activity, or you can embark on an evening adventure along specially-reserved pistes.
Away from the Slopes
As you can see there are many great opportunities for your kids to enjoy the snow. But that is not all, as there are also dozens of fantastic activities away from the slopes. Here are a few of my personal favourites.
- Tarzan Vines – If your kids jump around your home like George of the Jungle then this is the perfect place for them! Tarzan Vines allows you to launch around the Forum’s Atrium from a giant creeper – a great way to burn up some energy. This costs just €10 per person.
- Paragliding – The adrenaline rush you get from paragliding is like nothing else, plus you are also treated to astonishing birds-eye views of the mountains as you soar through the air. Tandem flights with an instructor ensure that it is totally safe and you need no prior experience. Paragliding is available from a few companies in Courchevel and will cost around €100.
- Hang Gliding – Like paragliding, this amazing activity allows you to fly like a bird. You are attached to a delta-shaped wing and accompanied by an experienced pilot while being treated to magnificent views and an unforgettable flying sensation. Hang gliding is available from €75.
- Climbing – A challenging yet extremely rewarding activity, Courchevel has an excellent climbing wall in the Forum that is just waiting to be conquered. The wall is 12 metres high and has 7 routes, ensuring that every level of ability is well-catered for. You can also benefit from a qualified guide if your child has never climbed before. This costs just €10 per person.
- Bowling – Everybody loves bowling, and Courchevel doesn’t disappoint. Its bowling complex has 8 alleys, bumpers, plenty of games and a restaurant – enough to keep you all entertained for hours. The complex is open all season from 11am to 3am.
How to Get to Courchevel
Despite its location high in the French Alps, this resort is actually very easy to reach and there are a few travel options. The majority fly into Geneva airport: this is just a 1 hour and 30 minute flight from the UK, where there are many airlines that offer regular direct flights, including British Airways. It is not the closest airport to the resort (around 188km and a three hour road trip), but it is the most convenient due to the number of regular flights and good road connections.
Chambéry is closer and will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes by road, but occasional bad weather can cause closures. Grenoble and Lyon, meanwhile, are both a 2-hour road journey from the resort.
Regardless of where you touch down, you should ensure reliable, comfortable and affordable passage with a Shuttle Direct transfer. Jump in the vehicle, sit back and enjoy the ride as you and your ski gear are whisked into the mountains.
Where to Stay:
Fleur de Neige – This budget apartment accommodation is great for families, with family rooms and a lounge with a television. It is self-catering with a fully equipped kitchenette and a dining area, which means that you can enjoy meals together. It is also well situated – just a 5-minute stroll from one of the ski lifts and a range of shops. Free Wi-Fi is available, so you are able to stream movies in the evening and catch up with friends back home.
Pierre & Vacances Le Christiana – A mid-range hotel complete with self-catering apartments and direct access to the ski slopes, families enjoy staying here due to the excellent location and cosy interior. The alpine apartments have a lounge area with satellite TV and a fully equipped kitchenette, as well as lovely views from a balcony or terrace. Family rooms are available and Wi-Fi is also free of charge here.
Hotel du Pralong – Check in to this fabulous hotel for some luxury on your family vacation. Hotel du Pralong boasts spacious and stylish rooms with a TV, minibar and balcony (in some rooms), as well as a heated indoor swimming pool and spa. The onsite restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine (and breakfast buffet) with superb views of the surrounding forests and mountains, whilst the bar is a great place to relax once the kids head up to bed. Hotel du Pralong also has direct access to the slopes so you can easily return and visit the spa after a long day. Wi-Fi is available for free in all areas.
About Shuttle Direct:
Shuttle Direct boasts the most extensive range of airport transfers in the Alps and have developed a fantastic reputation for their high-quality, reliable and affordable service.
Regardless of your holiday destination, they can guarantee safe, comfortable and efficient passage between airports, hotels, train stations and other areas. Shuttle Direct can cater to all group sizes and budgets and can even transport ski equipment for no additional charge.
Contact their expert and friendly team today or book with their easy to use online system for stress-free travel.
