April in Courchevel: What's on and weather

As winter draws to a close for another year, the snow on the lower slopes is usually much heavier by midday. The temperatures rarely dip below freezing, except at night, usually falling between a low of -2ºC and a high of 6ºC, plus there's still the chance of snow, as April averages ten days snowfall, and therefore a powder day isn't out of the question.

Easter is a popular time for families so the slopes are noticeably busier as soon as the holidays begin. Fortunately, the Three Valleys ski area is so vast, that even in high season you can find quiet slopes and minimal lift queues. Here are our insider's top tips for the school holidays:

1. Group lessons are the best option in the busy period, as private lessons are almost impossible to book - unless you got in early. Make sure to get your ski and snowboard lessons booked well in advance to avoid disappointment.
2. If you're not in ski school, be an early bird. Arrive at the lifts before they open so that you get up and away before the ski school classes set out around 09:15.
3. Ski over lunchtime when the slopes are calmer (between 12:00 and 14:00) whilst the French take a leisurely lunch break.
4. Avoid the queues and make the most of your time in the mountains by pre-booking your lunch reservation - some restaurants offer a Click & Collect service.
5. Seek out the peripheral areas. Courchevel Moriond is often a quieter area to ski as the main resort of Courchevel can often dominate, so head over to enjoy the long red Chapelets run, the most western point of the Three Valleys. Jumping on the Pyramides drag lift will take you to the top of some exceptional long blue pistes.
6. Get off-piste. Competent off-piste skiers can book a local mountain guide and explore the vast off-piste areas in the valley or even go touring to find complete solitude in the backcountry.

There is still time to enjoy the resort's legendary après-ski parties before the season comes to an end. La Folie Douce has taken the après-ski hotspot crown, but for a more relaxed affair you can always try one of the local bars for some happy hour discounts - and if you're here late enough in the season there are some wild closing parties.

April and Easter is synonymous with school holidays. As hundreds of children and their families descend on the pistes, the valley puts on a show for them. There are lots of activities to keep the little ones entertained on and off the mountain. Take a look at what the activities companies are putting on for those holiday memories that last forever.

We may be coming to the end of the season, but April's events calendar is always full. There will be major sporting events taking place up the mountain, plus in resort for those here over the Easter holidays the Easter Egg hunt is always worth taking part in. On the final day of the season, Courchevel organises a water pool to test your water skiing technique, and live music to go along side the fun and frivolities. If you manage to get first gondolas then you may also find a little Easter present left by Courchevel Tourisme in the form of chocolate Easter eggs and sweets. It’s a great Easter egg hunt if you have children in your ski party.

If you're coming to Courchevel this month or later in the year, now is the time to start thinking about booking accommodation, and some of the many things to do while you're in town.