The Best Time to Visit Courchevel
Find out the best time to visit Courchevel, with our month-by-month guide on what to expect from this first-class ski resort.
The best time to visit Courchevel: A Month-by-Month Guide
Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Courchevel is a world-renowned ski resort famous for its luxury chalets, extensive ski slopes, and vibrant après-ski scene. Whether you’re a passionate skier, a summer hiker, or someone looking to soak in alpine charm, knowing the best time to visit Courchevel will help you plan the perfect trip.
Situated between 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) and 1,850 meters (6,070 feet) altitude across its different villages - Courchevel 1300, 1550, 1650, and the iconic 1850 - this resort caters to all tastes and budgets. The peak ski season runs from December to April, while summer months from June to September offer excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect in Courchevel, from weather and snowfall to events and travel tips!
Popular Courchevel Chalets & Rentals
When Is the Best Time to Visit Courchevel?
If skiing or snowboarding is your priority, the best months are from December through April when the snow coverage is at its peak. For summer activities like hiking and biking, June through September offers mild weather and stunning alpine scenery. Shoulder months like May and October are quieter with lower prices but fewer activities.
Month-by-Month Guide to Courchevel
January in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Quiet slopes & powder skiing. Popular with: Serious skiers & smaller groups.
January is one of the best months to visit Courchevel for snow lovers. Snowfall increases significantly, averaging 100 to 160 cm (39 to 63 inches), creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding across the entire resort. Temperatures dip between -10°C and -2°C (14°F to 28°F), often feeling colder with alpine winds, so dressing in layers is essential. With roughly 8 to 9 hours of daylight, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the slopes before relaxing in cozy mountain chalets.
The resort is buzzing after the holiday season with an energetic crowd and lively après-ski scene. January is also a popular month for ski competitions and events, bringing top athletes and enthusiasts together.
Top Tip: Take advantage of midweek skiing when the slopes are quieter. Things to do: Taste Savoyard specialties like raclette, and enjoy stargazing on crisp alpine nights.
February in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Peak ski conditions & winter festivals. Popular with: Families, couples & groups.
February represents the peak of winter in Courchevel, with snow depths reaching their highest - often 150 to 200 cm (59 to 79 inches) - guaranteeing excellent ski conditions. Temperatures remain cold, usually ranging from -12°C to -3°C (10°F to 27°F). The days gradually lengthen to 9 to 10 hours of daylight, giving you more time on and off the mountain.
Crowds peak during French school holidays and Valentine’s Day, so early booking is crucial. Off the slopes, Courchevel offers a packed calendar of cultural events, gourmet food festivals, and live music to keep visitors entertained.
Top Tip: Book ski schools, restaurants, and chalets well ahead of time. Things to do: Attend the Gourmet Ski Week and enjoy après-ski concerts.
March in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Longer days & spring skiing. Popular with: Couples & groups looking for a balance of fun and relaxation.
March is a fantastic time to visit Courchevel if you want a balance of excellent skiing and milder weather. Snow depths usually remain between 100 and 150 cm (39 to 59 inches), especially on the higher slopes. Temperatures start to rise, fluctuating between -6°C and 5°C (21°F to 41°F), and daylight extends to 10 to 11 hours - perfect for longer ski days and exploring the village.
The atmosphere is more relaxed as peak crowds begin to thin, and spring skiing conditions bring softer snow and sunny afternoons. March is also when cultural events like the Festival International du Film de Montagne (International Mountain Film Festival) light up the nearby towns with mountain-themed cinema and talks.
Top Tip: Pack sunscreen as March sunshine can be strong on the slopes. Things to do: Relax on sunny terraces or attend film festival events.
April in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Late-season skiing & sunny days. Popular with: Budget-friendly ski breaks, families & relaxed skiers.
April marks the end of the ski season but can still offer great skiing on the highest slopes, with snow depths between 40 to 90 cm (16 to 35 inches) depending on the weather. Temperatures rise to a more comfortable -1°C to 8°C (30°F to 46°F), and daylight lengthens to 12 to 13 hours, allowing for outdoor activities beyond skiing.
This quieter shoulder month offers discounted accommodation and fewer crowds, ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful mountain escape. Some ski lifts close mid-April, but spring skiing remains possible on select pistes.
Top Tip: Always check which slopes are open before heading out. Things to do: Sunbathe on après-ski terraces or enjoy family-friendly spring activities.
May in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Hiking & mountain scenery. Popular with: Nature lovers & outdoor enthusiasts.
By May, skiing has ended, and Courchevel transitions into a quieter alpine retreat. The snow begins to melt, revealing scenic hiking routes and lush meadows at lower altitudes. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), with longer days offering around 14 to 15 hours of daylight.
Though the resort is quieter, it’s a peaceful time for those looking to escape the crowds and explore the mountains without skis. While some restaurants close for the off-season, self-catered Courchevel chalets and apartments make a great base for exploring.
Travel Tip: Bring sturdy footwear and layers for varied mountain weather. Things to Do: Go hiking or mountain biking, and enjoy the tranquil alpine landscapes.
June in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Outdoor activities & summer opening. Popular with: Adventure seekers & families.
June marks the start of Courchevel’s summer season, with rising temperatures between 8°C and 20°C (46°F to 68°F). The snow has largely melted from the lower slopes, giving way to lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. Days are long, with up to 16 hours of daylight.
This is when outdoor activities pick up: hiking, cycling, and even paragliding become popular. Families enjoy the gentle walking trails, while adrenaline-seekers can try canyoning or climbing.
Travel Tip: Pack for warm daytime temperatures but cool evenings in the mountains. Things to Do: Try paragliding for incredible views, or explore Courchevel’s biking trails.
July in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Summer sports & alpine festivals. Popular with: Families, couples & active travelers.
July is one of Courchevel’s liveliest summer months, with temperatures between 12°C and 25°C (54°F to 77°F). The resort offers an exciting calendar of events and festivals, making it a fun and energetic time to visit.
The long, sunny days provide perfect conditions for hiking, swimming in alpine lakes, or enjoying outdoor music and cultural events. Bastille Day celebrations also bring fireworks and festivities to the mountains.
Travel Tip: Book activities and chalets in advance, as July is a popular summer month. Things to Do: Join local festivals, enjoy mountain hikes, or relax with picnics by alpine lakes.
August in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Warm weather & peak summer activities. Popular with: Families & couples.
August is the warmest month in Courchevel, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 27°C (55°F to 81°F). The resort is in full swing, with outdoor adventures, cultural events, and family-friendly entertainment.
It’s ideal for those who love sunshine, fresh air, and alpine landscapes. Popular activities include horse riding, golf, mountain biking, and exploring local markets.
Travel Tip: Expect busier trails and attractions - arrive early to make the most of your days. Things to Do: Play golf on alpine courses, visit local artisan markets, or take a scenic hike at sunrise.
September in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Peaceful escapes & autumn colours. Popular with: Couples & nature lovers.
It’s a perfect time for tranquil hikes and photography, with trails quieter and the scenery at its most picturesque. Days shorten to around 12 hours of daylight, but the crisp air makes for pleasant outdoor activities.
Travel Tip: Bring layers for cool mornings and evenings. Things to Do: Go hiking through colourful forests or enjoy wine and food tastings in the Savoie region.
October in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Autumn getaways & quiet retreats. Popular with: Couples & off-season travelers.
October is one of the quietest months in Courchevel, with temperatures ranging between 3°C and 12°C (37°F to 54°F). Many facilities close in preparation for winter, but it’s a peaceful time to enjoy the mountain scenery without crowds.
Autumn colors linger in the forests, and the crisp air makes for refreshing hikes. For those seeking a restful break in the Alps, October is ideal.
Travel Tip: Stock up on essentials as some shops and restaurants may close mid-season. Things to Do: Take peaceful walks, practice photography, or simply relax in a chalet with mountain views.
November in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Early snowfalls & pre-season charm. Popular with: Ski enthusiasts & early visitors.
November brings the first signs of winter, with temperatures dropping to between -2°C and 6°C (28°F to 43°F). Snow begins to fall at higher altitudes, though the ski season hasn’t officially started yet.
It’s a quiet time before the December buzz, but ideal for travelers seeking solitude or those preparing for early winter holidays. Some chalets open ahead of the ski season, offering cozy getaways.
Travel Tip: Check snow forecasts if planning early ski trips. Things to Do: Enjoy scenic mountain walks, relax by the fire, and watch the Alps turn from autumn to winter.
December in Courchevel
Best time of year for: Skiing & Christmas festivities. Popular with: Couples, families & groups.
December is the magical month when Courchevel transforms into a winter wonderland. The snow season officially kicks off, and early snowfall starts to blanket the slopes, with averages around 40 to 100 cm (16 to 39 inches) by month’s end, especially at higher elevations.
Temperatures range from a chilly -5°C to a brisk 3°C (23°F to 37°F), with about 8 to 9 hours of daylight. While December can sometimes bring a mix of snow and rain at lower altitudes, the higher villages like Courchevel 1850 often enjoy crisp, powdery conditions.
The resort sparkles with festive decorations and hosts several holiday-themed events. Christmas markets fill the streets with local crafts, warm drinks, and the scent of spiced pastries. If you visit early in the month, you’ll find quieter slopes and lower prices before the holiday rush begins. Toward Christmas and New Year’s Eve, expect lively crowds, glittering lights, and special celebrations including fireworks and gala dinners.
Top Tip: Book your chalet rental or apartment in advance for the festive period. Things to do: Visit Christmas markets, enjoy après-ski by a fire, and watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
When Is the Best Time for Skiing in Courchevel?
The best skiing months are December through March, with January and February offering the deepest snow and most reliable conditions.
Summer Activities in Courchevel
From June to September, Courchevel offers a wide range of outdoor activities:
- Hiking in Vanoise National Park
- Mountain biking on extensive trails
- Paragliding over the Alps
- Fishing in alpine lakes
- Attending summer festivals and markets
Travel Tips for Visiting Courchevel
- Book early, especially for peak winter and summer seasons.
- Layer clothing to adapt to alpine weather changes.
- Arrange airport or train transfers in advance.
- Consider travel insurance, especially in winter.
- Respect local nature conservation rules.
Getting to Courchevel: Airport and Transfer Options
Courchevel is accessible from several airports:
Chambéry Airport (CMF): Around 1.5 hours by car, closest airport.
Geneva Airport (GVA): About 2.5 to 3 hours by car or shuttle.
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS): Roughly 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
Grenoble Airport (GNB): Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
The nearest train station is Moutiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains, about 30 minutes fr om Courchevel by taxi or bus. Regular trains connect this station to Paris and other major cities. From airports or the train station, you can take shuttle services, private transfers, taxis, or book a car hire to reach the resort.
Final Thoughts: When should you visit Courchevel?
Whether you come for world-class skiing or alpine summer adventures, Courchevel offers unforgettable experiences year-round. Choose your timing based on your preferred activities, and you’re sure to enjoy spectacular mountain scenery, welcoming hospitality, and lasting memories.
Where to stay in Courchevel
Discover our exclusive collection of luxury lodges, spa chalets, and stylish chalet apartments across Courchevel’s most desirable villages, from the world-famous glamour of Courchevel 1850 to the charm of 1650, 1550, and Le Praz. Each holiday rental is designed with comfort and style in mind, offering private amenities, optional in-chalet wellness features, and catered options to elevate your stay. With our tailored Concierge service on hand - from private transportation to personal chefs - you can enjoy a first-class, seamless Courchevel stay matched to your style, whether you’re seeking après-ski buzz or cozy alpine tranquillity.
Popular Courchevel Holiday Rentals
