February in Courchevel: What's on and weather

The unpredictable nature of the mountains means that there might be a few snowy days - on average 12 - but don’t forget to pack your sunscreen. The average daily temperatures generally fall between a high of freezing and -8°C, definitely not time for going without a thermal under-layer.

The pistes are usually in a very good condition, in particular the higher parts of the resort, like Saulire. If you're out at first lifts, then the black run above La Tania should be groomed to perfection, and the snow that tends to fall at this time of year increases the snow depths and nicely covers any ice patches that may have appeared.

February is a popular month for families so the slopes are noticeably busier as soon as the four-week French 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.

If, like most people, you like to follow several hours of exercise with several hours of drinking, you can hit up any of a number of local après-ski sessions. The Folie Douce Meribel Courchevel is famous for it's après-ski parties, and afterwards do your best to get yourselves down to the village where you'll find bars offering great music, delicious food and happy hours.

For late night entertainment, the clubs hold special nights, most days of the week.

Family fun

With the school holidays in February, there’s plenty organised. You'll find lots of activities to keep the little ones entertained on and off the mountain. There are festivals and music festivals, plus events up on the pistes. Keep an eye on the events calendar to ensure you don't miss out.

Courchevel is a foodie's paradise, so take your pick of the best restaurants in town, but if your budget doesn't stretch then worry not, there's great options out there. And if you're after some entertainment whilst you eat, many places will put on live music, or you could head out after dinner. 

There will also be events put on through the month to cater for the families here on the school break, things for all ages and desires.

There are plenty of things to do on and off the slopes, from snowshoe walks to relaxing at the spa or husky sledding. Take a look at what's on offer.