Courchevel 1300 Ski Resort Guide

Probably the prettiest of the Courchevels, 1300 is a traditional village with a charming square and narrow, cobbled streets.

The quaint town is dominated by the Olympic ski jump, but in a good way, and watching the ski jumpers from the warmth of a bar or your luxury chalet is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon.

What We Love About Courchevel 1300

There’s a charming and authentic feel when exploring Courchevel 1300. The narrow, cobbled streets will delight visitors as it winds through this enchanting village. Skiing back through pine trees, right into the heart of Courchevel 1300 before heading back to your luxury ski chalet is just one of the many joys this resort offers.

Though geographically very close, Courchevel 1300 is the down-to-earth, friendly sibling to Courchevel 1850. It caters to every budget with its fantastic variety of restaurants, bistros and easy-going pubs.

Best Time to Visit Courchevel 1300

Courchevel 1300 in the 3 valleys is open from the end of November to mid-April. This can sometimes change, so be sure to ask a member of our team or the tourist board to double-check.

Getting to the Ski Resort Courchevel 1300

Geneva airport is 2 hours drive away. Grenoble and Lyon airports are approximately 2 hours drive away. Chambery airport is 1 hour 30 minutes’ drive. Moutiers rail station is also just a 30-minute drive.

There is also an altiport in Courchevel 1850 for those travelling by helicopter or private jet.

Skiing in Courchevel 1300

Luxury ski chalets in Courchevel 1300 are a good bet for families and groups of mixed-ability skiers. Beginners will enjoy the sheltered lower slopes as well as the blue and green slopes at Courchevel 1850, accessible in 10 minutes by lift. Meanwhile, those more confident can enjoy the more challenging red runs back into Le Praz itself, down slopes lined with pine trees – like starring in the opening scenes of your own James Bond movie.

There’s plenty to keep everyone busy for a week or two but even if you should exhaust the entire Courchevel valley during your stay, the rest of the 3 Valleys are on your doorstep with Meribel an easy journey of two ski lifts away.

Beyond Meribel, for those looking to cover plenty of ground, it is well worth heading across to the other end of the piste map and right to the top of Val Thorens. Due to its impressive altitude of 3,230, you can bet you’re in for epic snow and jaw-dropping views.

Things to Do in Courchevel 1300

If you’re a non-skier or simply taking a little break from the slopes, Courchevel 1300 is a perfect little bolthole. There are some wonderful forest walks, as well as the Aquamotion leisure centre just a short drive away in Courchevel 1550. Ideal for tiring the kids out before bedtime, there are water slides into the large swimming pool and an impressive selection of pool toys.

For the adrenaline junkies among us, fear not – there are plenty of thrills to be had in the form of heliskiing, paragliding, helicopter riding and dog sledging.

At Firefly Collection, we truly understand the value of relaxing from the comfort of your own luxury ski chalet. Just ask and an experienced massage therapist can come and soothe any sore muscles or aching backs.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Courchevel 1300

Courchevel 1300 in the 3 Valleys has something for everyone, from a good clutch of decent pizzerias (L’Elephant bar, known simply as ‘The Sports Bar’, serves one of the best pizzas in town) to the more upmarket Le Bistrot du Praz, where Foie Gras is a speciality.

For such a small, quaint village, Le Praz can be very proud of its own Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Azimut. An unpretentious spot with fair prices and a welcoming atmosphere. It encompasses exactly what Courchevel 1300 is all about – sophisticated yet charmingly friendly.

For late-night drinking, L’Elephant Bar is open until 2 am each night and comes recommended for some live music in the afternoons and evenings. If you’re seeking a quieter, more refined drink, La Cave des Lys is a vaulted wine bar where you can sample fine wines accompanied by Savoyard cheeses, Italian charcuterie and even snails.

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