Courchevel
Courchevel is known for being one of the best places for skiing in France. But if you’re not a skier (or a snowboarder, for that matter), there are still plenty of things to do in Courchevel. Here is my list of the top activities:
Hot Air Ballooning in Courchevel
Hot air balloon rides are one of the best ways to see Courchevel at its best. All winter long, hot air balloon rides are offered at the resort, and they are a great alternative to a day on the pistes. Rides tend to last an hour or more, and depart in the morning at sunrise from the altiport in Courchevel.
Shopping in Courchevel
Courchevel (formerly known as Courchevel 1850, but still commonly referred to as such) has some of the best luxury shopping in the French Alps. Dior, Chanel, Prada, and other luxury goods shops line the streets near the ski slopes, allowing those that don’t want to partake in the skiing to get their adrenaline rush another way.
Apres Ski in Courchevel
The apres ski in Courchevel is both varied and lively. In Courchevel Moriond (formerly known as Courchevel 1650), there are great bars and clubs to keep the ski-shy occupied all day and night. The Fire & Ice bar at Le Portetta hotel in Courchevel is a great place to spend the afternoon looking out onto the slopes. They have great shots for apres ski hour, too. Beyond Fire & Ice, Le Bubble and the Funky Fox are good bars (the latter having great live music), and La Klinik is popular for late night clubbing in Courchevel.
Sledding in Courchevel
For those that don’t want to ski but also don’t want to stray far from the slopes, there is a great sledding run from the top of Courchevel 1850 down to Courchevel 1550. It is not for the faint of heart, but it is fun for those brave enough to try it. Sleds can be rented from the local ski shops in Courchevel 1850, and when you are finished with the sledding course, you can take the gondola back up to Courchevel 1850 to return them.