About Activities in Courchevel

Top things to do in Courchevel

Below are our three favourite activities in Courchevel but there are plenty more to choose from. Check out the selection of things to do below for some holiday inspiration – you'll see that there are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding in Courchevel.

1. Winter sports, skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are probably the most popular activities in the The 3 Valleys. But we're not talking about lift-assisted, downhill skiing and snowboarding only – there's a whole host of activities that involve boards strapped onto your feet including ski touring and split boarding, cross-country skiing or telemarking. And there's much more than just skiing and snowboarding in Courchevel in the winter. The Three Valleys mountains are the perfect setting to go snowshoeing and husky dog sledging, while the ice skating rinks in Courchevel town centre will keep the whole family entertained.

2. Mountain biking

Many people would argue that it's actually mountain biking that's the number one activity in Courchevel. The 3 Valleys trails and bike parks are considered the best in the world and attract hundreds of Enduro and downhill biking aficionados every summer to its miles of tracks that meander through lush forests to reach stunning mountaintops with breath taking views. An experience not to be missed!

3. Walking, hiking and running

In the summer, The 3 Valleys pistes turn into meadows and deep-forested trails to explore on foot. From easy valley strolls to gruelling trail running climbs, everyone can explore the Courchevel valley's beautiful sunny landscapes.

Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding in Courchevel

Downhill skiing and snowboarding

Lift-assisted downhill skiing and snowboarding are the most popular activities in Courchevel. So much so that we could write several guides dedicated to them... and, in fact, we have! Take a look at our ski areas, pistes and parks guide where you'll not only find a lot of information on the Courchevel ski area but also links to many other articles: ski lifts guide, best pistes guide, snowparks guide, beginner ski areas guide, advanced ski areas guide, off-piste ski areas guide, ski itineraries guide and even a guide on the best places to go skiing when the weather is bad.

However, lift-assisted downhill skiing and snowboarding aren't the only things you can do in Courchevel while having a pair of skis or a board strapped to your feet.

Ski touring and split boarding

Whether it's going up the pistes that most people normally ski down or tackling a backcountry route, ski touring and split boarding allow you to get off the beaten path while working a sweat up the slopes. A number of ski schools, private instructors and companies can show you around or, if you've got all the necessary knowledge, you can head out in your own group.

Cross-country skiing

Courchevel boasts 90 km of tranquil cross-country trails, marked and free trails all start from one of Courchevel's villages.
You can hire the comfortable boots and lightweight skis and poles fairly inexpensively from most sports shops in Courchevel. You may also want to book a group or private lesson to learn the basics.

Heliskiing and heliboarding

Heliskiing is not permitted in France but there are a couple of companies in Courchevel offering panoramic helicopter rides that include heliskiing. They pick you up in resort and take you over the border into Italy or Switzerland from where you will ski down accompanied by a mountain guide. It is expensive, but definitely a once in a lifetime experience!

Telemarking

Telemarking is a form of downhill skiing where you are only attached to the binding at the toe so, to turn, you have to lunge and bring your heel upwards. Talk to one of the ski schools or private instructors who can teach you how to telemark and take you out on excursions using this technique.

Biathlon

Modern winter biathlon is a combination of cross-country skiing and rifle shooting that tests not only fitness but also patience and control. In Courchevel you can try your hand at this Olympic sport. If you like cross-country skiing but want to add another challenge, then biathlon is the perfect way to escape into the natural, quiet surrounding mountains and then shoot stuff. Bit of a contradiction this one, but it's fun all the same.

Speed-riding

The idea behind speed riding is to combine the sensations of skiing and paragliding into one activity, and then descend off-piste sections of the mountain using a mini-wing to enable you to access areas that you might not normally go. Learning and having fun with speed riding comes very fast as long as you are a competent skier – you need to be able to ski red pistes with confidence in any type of snow.

Torchlit descent

At night time you can strap your skis on and join others in a group to make your way down the piste holding a torch in a torchlit descent. Definitely something fun, different and challenging, and the perfect activity for groups or families. A traditional alpine experience you can enjoy the quiet of the pistes at night. Some companies offer the experience with a traditional Savoyard mountain meal at the top of the slopes followed by a descent down to Courchevel with professional guides. Speak to your ski school to see if they can take you.

Airboarding

Ever heard of an Airboard? It's a new way to descend the mountain in the form of a posh sledge, like body-boarding on an inflatable. This relatively new twist on snow sports is a bit like body boarding down the piste. Lying stomach-down on an inflatable sled-like cushion you slide head-first down the mountain, picking up speed and using your bodyweight to shift direction. Many resorts enforce age restrictions and only allow airboarding within certain areas, so don’t go plummeting down your favourite black run before checking the rules first!

Cinema

Catch the latest films and releases in Courchevel on your winter or summer holiday. Some cinemas open their doors early on a bad weather day, otherwise you'll find most screenings in the evenings. Look out for VOST for English speaking films.

Climbing in Courchevel

Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned climber, Courchevel is a brilliant place to get stuck into climbing. You’ll find everything from thrilling rock faces and dramatic glacier hikes to indoor walls and family-friendly sessions. Fancy something a little different? Try Via Ferrata, where metal ladders and cables help you scale the mountain with extra security, or give ice climbing a go on Courchevel’s frozen waterfalls or dedicated wall. With expert guides, stunning views and routes for all levels, it’s a great way to experience the mountains from a whole new angle.

Culture and guided tours in Courchevel

Farm visits

A great day out for the family where your children will become the farmer's apprentice, helping feed the animals, make cheese and look after the pigs, cows and other farmyard animals. Learn all about the animals and the way the farm works whilst having some petting and feeding time with the animals. To be able to participate children must be over the age of three and have some good closed-toe shoes and that's it, your children can then be farmers for the day!

Nature reserves and parks

The Vanoise National Park is located in the heart of the Savoie region. Created in 1963, it was the first French national park and it covers a large territory where you can find a stunning mountain landscape with lakes, and beautiful vegetation. It is also well known for its population of Alpine ibex, as well as many other animals like chamois, marmots and more than 100 species of birds.

For a day immersed in nature you can also head to La Rosière Natural Site, a beautiful area at the bottom of the Vallée des Avals with a lake and a campsite where you can enjoy a picnic or a barbecue. There are botanical and orienteering walks and a chalet where you can have a drink with some snacks to round up a perfect family day out.

Cycling in Courchevel

Riding in the Alps is much more demanding than your favourite local route back in the UK. The roads around Courchevel are the setting for some of the most gruelling sections of the Tour de France but they can be tackled by enthusiasts as well as professionals. To gain the most from your riding in the area it goes without saying you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. You do not need to be a super man or woman but the ability to ride comfortably for up to three to four hours in the UK should see you enjoy the mountain routes.

If you've brought your bike with you, then you can just get on the road and challenge your fitness as you climb some of the Alps most famous mountain 'cols' at no cost. Those in need of wheels will be glad to know that you can rent road bikes in Courchevel.

Fishing in Courchevel

With seven designated fishing sites Courchevel is an angler’s haven! The area boasts six breathtaking mountain lakes and a river, Lac du Praz and Lac de la Rosière being the most popular spots. A respectful approach to fishing is appreciated to help maintain the balance of nature.

Local authorities request that all anglers fill in catch declarations and pay their fishing dues. Fishing licences can be bought from tourist offices, Olympic Sport in 1330/Le Praz and at the police station. These licenses are compulsory and only one person is allowed to use each licence. All Courchevel fishing lakes are open from July to October, from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset. The maximum number of fish caught is three fish in all the mountain lakes except at "Merlet Supérieur" where only NO KILL fly fishing is authorised.

Fitness and swimming in Courchevel

Staying active in Courchevel is easy, whether you want to hit the gym, take a swim or join a team sport. The main sports centre has fitness classes, gym facilities and courts for basketball, football and volleyball, including beach volleyball in Le Praz during summer. Many hotels and apartments also have their own pools, or you can head to the impressive Aquamotion centre in Moriond for a proper swim and a bit of relaxation.

Flying in Courchevel

Helicopter tours

Sit back and admire the mountains from even higher up! Daily panoramic helicopter flights are available in Courchevel (weather permitting) with a number of local flight companies. Relax and enjoy the stunning views as you fly over the snow capped mountain tops, glaciers and alpine forests.

Paragliding

If you’ve never tried paragliding before then Courchevel is a great place to learn how to fly. Known as “parapenting” in France and Switzerland, there are a great number of clubs and organisations in the area whose sole purpose is give you the experience of flying. From the heights of the mountain tops you can glide down to the bottom of the valley on a tandem paraglider. Top tip: go on a sunny, warm day when the thermals will keep you airborne for longer.
Anyone can take part in a tandem paragliding flight, even if you've never paraglided before. You'll be attached to an instructor who'll take care of the wing, so you just need to relax and enjoy the views.

Hot air ballooning

One of the best ways to take the spectacular mountain scenery from a different point of view is on a hot air balloon. There are activity companies in Courchevel offering balloon rides, which usually take up half a day including preparation and inflation. The take off point is from the Altiport in Courchevel.

Golf in Courchevel

Courchevel has an excellent course set amongst beautiful scenery, where you can play golf surrounded by the fantastic mountain views. There is a nine hole course in Les Verdons plateau, open every day during the summer, where lessons can also be arranged.

Horse riding in Courchevel

Courchevel offers a wide expanse of spectacular terrain on which you can saddle up and go exploring. There are a range of trails and routes waiting to be explored in Courchevel, and what better way to explore them than on horseback. A great and exciting activity to do with all the family and a fun way to explore the mountains and scenery.

Indoor activities in Courchevel

Bowling

If you're in a group and fancy doing something different, especially on bad weather days, head to the bowling lanes! The lanes in Courchevel's Bowling 3000 are also specially adapted for children.

Cinema

Catch the latest films and releases in Courchevel on your holiday. Some cinemas open their doors early on a bad weather day, otherwise you'll find most screenings in the evenings. Look out for VOST for English speaking films.

Mountain-biking & Fat-biking

Courchevel is a top spot for mountain biking, with varied terrain and stunning scenery that make it ideal for riders of all levels. Whether you’re after a relaxed ride on scenic lower trails or a full-on day of downhill action, there’s plenty to choose from. If you’ve already got your gear, all you’ll need is a lift pass to access the trails. For something a bit different, give fat biking a go, it’s a fun and exhilarating way to race down the slopes in summer and winter.  In winter you can try this after a days skiing as an early evening activity, by reservation.

Snow and ice activities in Courchevel

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing or, as the French call them, "raquettes à neige" is a perfect activity for bad weather conditions and a wonderful way for non-skiers to explore the mountains in and around Courchevel. Either set out on your own or join a group led by a knowledgeable local guide and discover the hidden parts of the ski area. The trails will take you to places from where you can enjoy stunning views or explore forests where local fauna such as chamois, wild goats and deer roam free.
If you don't know the local area well, we recommend you get a private guide or join a group on a snowshoe expedition – it may seem safer than skiing but you'll be exploring backcountry trails where the avalanche danger is high so it's better to go with someone who knows what they're doing. Snowshoes and ski poles are provided by most companies offering this as an experience, but you can also hire them from most ski hire shops in Courchevel.

Ice skating

Put your skates on and head for the indoor rink, or watch the local teams play ice hockey in Courchevel.

Sledging

This is one winter activity that doesn't require a lot of expensive equipment, just grab your sledge and head for the nearest snow covered hill! Courchevel has its very own two km long sledge run - this is one thrill you don't want to miss out on.
You can rent a sledge at one of the many local ski hire shops, while most of the sports shops in Courchevel will also have them for sale. Several activity companies also offer you the chance to sledge at night, down the ski slopes.

Husky dog rides

Be in charge of your own sledge and team of excitable husky dogs, driving them along forest paths in winter. After a brief explanation of how to make your team stop and start, you set off following the guide’s team. There are also child-dedicated rides. It's a very popular winter activity, so booking at least 48 hours in advance is a must. They run from early December to the end of April (snow permitting).

Ice diving

Plunge into the freezing waters and experience the thrill of diving under the icy layers above. Explore the beautiful water, the wildlife and ice formations found in the water. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced diver, you can have a go at ice diving. Adventure companies offering this activity will provide you with all the equipment and instruction you need and will take you on this underwater adventure.

Spas and massages in Courchevel

If it is calm and relaxation you are after then head to a luxury day spa or book in for massage therapies and beauty treatments. A day spa is also the perfect activity when the weather turns. You can keep warm and revive aching muscles in saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis or take a refreshing dip in a swimming pool. Unwind, relax and indulge.

Tennis and racket sports in Courchevel

Tennis

Tennis is a great way to get the legs moving and enjoy the sunny summertime weather. You can play a friendly game or have a lesson, whatever you choose,  it is a great way to have fun with friends and family. Open during the summer season, there are tennis courts and training walls in Courchevel. Lessons are usually available in groups or privately. Perfect as a family outing, you can hire a court and when tiredness hits you can enjoy some refreshments and snacks at the tennis club or café. You can book your court online, at the clubhouse or by phone.

Paddle tennis

Combining squash and tennis, paddle tennis is a fun active sport, great to play with friends and family and something new to try while on holiday in Courchevel. You can hire the courts on an hourly basis and children must be over the age of 6 to play. There are tournaments arranged weekly. Located on the Grandes Combes site in the Courchevel village, there are two paddle tennis courts.

Badminton and Squash

You can play indoors at the sports centre in Le Praz.

Theme parks, waterparks and aquariums in Courchevel

Adventure park

Adventure parks are designed for children and adults to play, explore, exercise and have fun in the natural mountain surroundings. The ropes, swings, tunnels, trees and activities are a great day out for children and adults. Qualified guides will be around the course to ensure you are safe and having as much fun as possible. Different courses and tracks can be tried and tested, each one with a varying level of difficulty. There are courses designed for children only and tracks for juniors and adults to enjoy.

Paintballing

Challenge your friends and family to a game of paintball! This exciting activity offers fun for groups of all ages. In most cases, you're split into teams and a variety of scenarios and courses are offered at the beginning of all games, with each game lasting approximately two hours. The ultimate aim is to shoot your opponents with paint pellets and capture their flag before they get hold of yours. Several adventure companies and courses offer paintballing fun in Courchevel.

Walking, hiking and running in Courchevel

Walking and hiking

In the summer months, Courchevel is an Alpine mecca for walking and hiking. As the snow melts and the sun begins to shine the mountains make an excellent place to head out on a hike or walk. Walking is the perfect activity for groups, families and friends. Pick from a number of routes ranging in difficulty, from easy child friendly walks to challenging day long hikes. Along the way enjoy the fantastic mountain views, beautiful scenery and wildlife that is normally hidden in the winter months. Check out our walking and hiking guide for more details on hiking in Courchevel.

Trail running

There are numerous marked running trails in the Courchevel area, most of them divided into easy, medium, difficult and expert runs, as well as skyruns (with bits above 2000m on mountain ridges).

Winter walking

Courchevel is a winter walker's paradise. With lifts giving access to the higher ground and a network of groomed trails in the winter, it's very easy to discover the resort on foot. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you set out as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. You do not need any particular equipment, just a pair of sturdy boots and layers of warm clothing that you can take off or put on as necessary. A pair of walking poles will come in handy for extra balance on icy patches and for checking snow depth before you go striding forth. Top tip: buy ‘grippers’ for your walking boots to prevent slipping, which you can buy from most local sport shops.

Glacier hiking

For a truly unique experience, clamp on your crampons and go hiking on one of the many glaciers in the Three Valleys area. The breath-taking views and spectacular crevasses make this an incredible adventure. There are a number of glacial hikes, of varying difficulty, in this region of the Alps. Most adventure companies will run organised excursions to the most accessible.
To read more about glaciers and the environment please go to our glacier meltdown article.

Watersports in Courchevel

Courchevel might be known for snow, but it’s also a brilliant place to make a splash in the summer. From the thrill of white water rafting and canyoning to the fun of water balls or wakeboarding at the lake in Le Praz, there’s something for everyone. You can paddle down rivers in stable canoe rafts, bounce through rapids on a hydrospeed board or just enjoy the buzz of trying something new with expert guides to keep you safe. Whether you're after full-on adventure or a more laid-back way to cool off, Courchevel has plenty to dive into.