Courchevel’s villages: a complete guide to 1300, 1550, 1650 and 1850
Summary
Courchevel’s villages: a complete guide to 1300, 1550, 1650 and 1850
Courchevel is one of the most prestigious ski destinations in the Alps, yet it is not a single village but a collection of four distinct levels: 1300 (Le Praz), 1550, 1650 (Moriond), and 1850. Each altitude has its own rhythm, atmosphere, and character, creating a resort where every traveller finds a perfect match. From the quiet authenticity of Le Praz to the global sophistication of 1850, these villages reflect the evolution of alpine living. Choosing where to stay in Courchevel is about more than altitude. It is about finding the environment that aligns with your way of experiencing the mountains, whether that means calm, family comfort, open space, or international glamour.
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I. The lower villages: authenticity, accessibility, and family comfort
A. Courchevel 1300 (Le Praz)
Le Praz is Courchevel’s oldest and most authentic village. Nestled at the base of the valley, it preserves the feel of a traditional alpine hamlet, with narrow lanes, stone houses, and the scent of wood smoke drifting from chimneys. The pace is calm, the atmosphere discreet, and the welcome genuinely warm. Local restaurants such as Azimut offer fine Savoyard cuisine with a contemporary touch, while evenings often revolve around family dinners or a quiet drink by the fire.
Despite its intimacy, Le Praz is seamlessly connected to the rest of Courchevel through the efficient Le Praz gondola, which reaches 1850 in minutes. This makes it ideal for travellers who want authenticity without losing access to the main ski area. Chalets here blend traditional architecture with modern design, creating homes that feel rooted in the landscape while offering the comfort and amenities expected from a luxury stay.
B. Courchevel 1550
Courchevel 1550 sits just below 1850 and offers a family-friendly environment where convenience defines the experience. Its slopes are gentle, wide, and designed for beginners, making it a natural base for children and first-time skiers. Ski schools and rental shops are within easy reach, and lifts provide direct access to higher altitudes. The village is peaceful during the day and lively in the early evening, with families returning from the slopes to dine together in local restaurants or enjoy hot chocolate in cosy cafés.
The architecture in 1550 mixes classic alpine chalets with modern residences built for comfort and practicality. Everything is designed to simplify family life, from ski rooms and shared lounges to services such as daycare and private instructors. Guests staying here enjoy the advantage of proximity to 1850 without its intensity, giving them access to the full Courchevel experience at a more relaxed pace.
II. The higher villages: charm, space, and international prestige
A. Courchevel 1650 (Moriond)
Courchevel 1650, often called Moriond, offers a perfect balance between alpine charm and vibrant energy. Its sunny orientation, open ski runs, and panoramic views make it a favourite among families and intermediate skiers who appreciate both accessibility and space. The local slopes are less crowded, creating a relaxed atmosphere ideal for long, scenic descents. The village itself combines a lively rhythm with approachable elegance.
Moriond’s streets feature an appealing mix of restaurants, après-ski bars, and shops, with highlights such as Le Portetta Hotel & Fire and Ice Bar adding a cosmopolitan touch. Chalets in 1650 are often larger than those found in 1850, with generous terraces and wellness areas, perfectly suited for groups or multigenerational families. The sense of openness, both in space and in spirit, makes Moriond one of the most balanced and welcoming areas in Courchevel.
B. Courchevel 1850
Courchevel 1850 stands at the summit of alpine luxury. Created to be the crown jewel of the French Alps, it has become an international icon where prestige, design, and service meet at the highest level. The village is home to five-star hotels such as Cheval Blanc Courchevel, Les Airelles, and L’Apogée Courchevel, along with Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques, and refined après-ski venues. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan, with travellers arriving from every continent to experience winter at its most elegant.
Most chalets in 1850 are ski-in ski-out, giving guests direct access to the vast Three Valleys ski area. Inside, they offer features that rival private estates: wellness floors, cinemas, wine cellars, and full-time staff. Evenings move effortlessly from gourmet dinners to late-night gatherings at venues like Les Caves de Courchevel. For those who seek the ultimate alpine experience, 1850 remains the natural choice, embodying the refinement and international prestige that define Courchevel.
Choosing your Courchevel village
Each village represents a distinct way of living the mountains. Courchevel 1300 offers authentic charm, calm evenings, and local culture. Courchevel 1550 provides comfort and convenience for families with easy access to ski schools and gentle slopes. Courchevel 1650 combines sunshine, space, and sociable elegance, appealing to travellers who enjoy both serenity and style. Courchevel 1850 delivers the full expression of alpine luxury, with Michelin dining, designer shopping, and private chalets that redefine comfort.
Selecting the right village means aligning your stay with your rhythm. Some guests seek tradition and quiet, others prefer energy and refinement. With CS Villas, you can find the chalet that captures your ideal balance. Whether surrounded by the authenticity of Le Praz or the glamour of 1850, Courchevel offers one consistent promise: a sense of place where luxury and the spirit of the mountains coexist in perfect harmony.
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