Courchevel is recognised as one of the most popular ski resorts in the French Alps. The natural beauty surrounding the area is simply magnificent, and the luxury chalets and high-class restaurants dotted around the resort all add to its classy atmosphere. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, read on to discover how you can make the most of this skiing haven when it comes to wining and dining.
Friday
The first glimpse of the resort will never fail to take your breath away, particularly if you’re arriving in the evening. In the late-night glow of the village, guests can easily find a cosy bar to enjoy some local wine. To help you choose, here are some of Courchevel’s best bars, ideal for a relaxing first night:
- L’Equipe Bar – A favourite with the locals; it’s small, alpine-esque and boasts a huge selection of beverages. This is located right in the centre of the resort so is very easy to find.
- Le Norby’s – Chill out on the sofas in front of the open fire with a warming wine – what better way to spend your first night? This bar can be found within Hotel Les Peupliers.
- Cave Des Lys – The most romantic bar around, this snug little hideaway is built into a cave! Enjoy a tipple under curved stone ceilings and dim lights. Find this unusual spot on Allée des Cerisiers, a street near the resort’s centre.
Once you’re full of evening refreshments, head to your accommodation for a well-earned rest and prepare for your next jam-packed day…
Saturday
By now, it’ll be time to put on your winter gear and head to the slopes (after enjoying a delicious French breakfast of buttery croissants, of course). Courchevel boasts an array of wonderful snowy pistes, perfect for all abilities. You will also have the option to hire a Snow Guide if you need help planning the most suitable routes.
Once you’ve spent the morning speeding down the mountains, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Here are some restaurant recommendations for those looking for a classy dining experience:
- Le Dou Restaurant – The perfect spot for a mountain lunch break, this eatery (located in La Sivolière Hotel) offers delicious fresh produce served to a very high standard. Eat on the terrace and admire the beautiful views, or spend time warming up indoors by the fire.
- Le Cap Horn – This high-class restaurant is quite well-known around the area for its outstanding menu and excellent service. If you’re looking for VIP treatment, this is where you’ll get it! This nautical-themed restaurant can be found near Courchevel Airport.
If you really want a dining experience with wow-factor, make a reservation at one of Courchevel’s 1850’s Michelin-star restaurants. Take a look at our guide to find out more.
There are a number of restaurants in the resort, all serving quality dishes. Many supply both lunch and dinner menus, so you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Spend your Saturday evening out at the bars or simply relax in your comfortable chalet – you’ll need the rest after your day on the slopes.
Sunday
If you’re keen to explore the surrounding area, a great place to visit on the Sunday is Courchevel Moriond – the most western point of the Three Valleys. Here you can experience even more of the local ski scene and try out new pistes and perhaps a new restaurant – a good recommendation for lunch is L’Arc en Ciel, as it’s just metres from the pistes and offers a huge variety of dishes.
Where to Stay
Chalet Folcon – This traditional accommodation boasts unique, quirky décor in every room. You’ll find a hot tub, well-equipped kitchen and beautiful fireplace among other excellent facilities. Plus, it’s just a short drive from the main ski lifts.
Chalet Makalu – If you’re looking for real, alpine luxury, this is the chalet for you. The extravagant wooden furnishings and beautifully decorated rooms look as if they have come straight from a fairytale film set. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the village. This property really does have everything you could possibly desire – including a Jacuzzi!
Chalet Emilie – Located right in the centre, this is the perfect property for those looking to get out and about. The charming design of Chalet Emilie makes it wonderfully unique, and there’s a Jacuzzi and large garden for guests to enjoy.
How to Get There
From the UK, I would suggest flying to Geneva Airport. Finding low-cost flights at appropriate times for you should not be too much of a hassle, since there are approximately 180 flights scheduled every week. The journey from the UK to Geneva Airport usually takes just one hour and 30 minutes.
Once you arrive at the airport, the best way to get to your accommodation is to reserve a private transfer with Shuttle Direct. Pre-booking means that you won’t have to wait in any public transport or taxi queues, and you can be on your way to your chalet as quickly as possible. Better yet, Shuttle can arrange to transport all of your bulky ski equipment at no extra charge if you inform them of your requirements at the time of booking. The transfer to Courchevel should take around two hours and 20 minutes.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct we provide reliable airport transfers that our customers can count on. Start you holiday feeling completely relaxed and safe – your stress-free alpine adventure awaits.
