More on the Courchevel levels

Courchevel 1850 has the reputation for being the world's best ski resort. Immaculate pistes, superbly interlinked skiing on the vast 3 Valleys ski area amidst beautiful scenery are just some of its features. Add to this an astounding range of bars, restaurants, chic boutiques and nightspots and it's no wonder that Courchevel is so highly rated and where the rich and famous come 'to see and be seen'. The secluded Jardin Alpin sector is where all the spectacular chalets and hotels are located. There are gentle beginner slopes and a vast array of intermediate, advanced and off-piste couloirs to keep even the most accomplished skiers busy.

Courchevel 1650 The original village of Moriond forms the basis for the resort of Courchevel 1650, giving it a colloquial, friendly atmosphere which contrasts nicely with that of its near neighbour, the glamorous celebrity filled town, Courchevel 1850. It is lower down the valley, and less pricey and still has much to offer with a welcoming atmosphere encompassed its own unique character and style. Piste wise, there are some cruisy wide blue runs in 1650, where frequently you will often find some of the best powder snow and quietest slopes in Courchevel.

There are all the facilities you would expect in a top quality resort - numerous hotels, bars, restaurants, shops and three excellent supermarkets selling everything you will need and even its own local cinema and church. There is a weekly street market where you can buy local cheeses, meats and wines and the Tourist Information Office in the centre of the village will provide you with all the information you need on local activities and events during your stay in the resort. Courchevel 1650 is much smaller than Courchevel 1850, but has a great selection of bars and restaurants. Some favourite haunts are Rocky's bar, the Signal Bar, the Bubble Bar and the Space Bar.

Courchevel 1550 (pic right) is markedly quieter, with just a few chalets and hotels. A new high speed 6 person chairlift was installed in '04/'05 offering a very quick connection to the pistes of 1850. There is also a bubble lift which runs daily from 09.00 until 19.30 taking you into the centre of 1850.

La Tania The most recent of the 3 Valley resorts La Tania, is an admirable alternative for those who want to combine skiing for all levels with a 'personal approach' resort. Different from Courchevel, La Tania is proud of its friendly atmosphere and warm reception. Yet from here, you can access the same fabulous ski domain. Grouches may object that its nightlife suffers compared to its bigger sisters, or that the resort's northern exposure restricts its supply of sunshine however La Tania still represents a very special and off-beat way to explore the extraordinary ski area of 3 Valleys. Nestling between two traditional hamlets at an altitude of 1750m, the station lies in the heart of a magnificent forest, in perfect harmony with the natural environment where the snow conditions are exceptional. Wood is used wherever possible in construction, a mix of chalets and chalet style apartments, totally pedestrianised will let you enjoy the mountains and the changing scenery in all tranquility.

Courchevel Le Praz is an old farming village and the original "Courchevel". As the base for the skiing area, it is definitely the cheapest option for those looking to take advantage of the Trois Vallées skiing. From late December until early April, it is normally still possible to ski back to Le Praz on either the two red runs, or two black pistes, all of which are tree lined and some of the prettiest in the valley. A 15 minute gondola ride takes you into the centre of Courchevel 1850 where the gateway to the trois valley is yours for the taking!