Courchevel 1850: still the ultimate ski resort in the French Alps

Courchevel 1850 has long been the St Tropez of the French Alps; this high altitude resort ensures a long snow sure season and is the most famous of all the resorts within the vast Three Valleys ski area. However it isn’t just the skiing which has turned this into a world renowned resort – the shopping, bars and restaurants are first class. Lunch on the piste reaches a whole different level with Le Cap Horn, located by the Altiport, which serves seafood and Asian dishes and has a DJ on the terrace. Le Chalet de Pierres to be found on the side of the piste is famous for its alfresco lunches and has puddings to die for. However if you have to look at the prices you can’t afford it! Skiing for all levels can be found in and around Courchevel 1850. The Saulire area is the largest and busiest and can be reached from the centre of 1850 by way of a cluster of gondolas and a cable-car, the wide pistes returning to resort are ideal for beginners. When you reach the peak of Saulire you can either ski down into Méribel and onwards to the Val Thorens valley. For those more experienced skiers the black Les Suisses is fabulous first thing, more challenging are the Courchevel Couloirs, three narrow corridors of snow between the rocks: Emile Allais, Grand Couloir, and Sous le Téléphérique. The Col de la Loze area can be easily reached and takes you towards La Tania which has gently wooded slopes perfect for bad weather. Apres ski is a must on any ski trip but here the choice of drink in this resort is Champagne and specialist Vodka for the Russian visitors. The most popular destinations post ski are Le Jump Bar and Le Milk; however a favourite for later on is Les Caves de Courchevel. If you like Michelin starred restaurants then you can pick from either Le Chabichou which serves inventive regional cuisine in a traditionally-decorated, family friendly atmosphere or Le Bateau Ivre which can be found in the Hotel Pomme de Pin which has inspirational cooking in an elegant atmosphere. Ceri Tinley is the Co-Founder and MD of Consensio Holidays. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.