5 reasons to visit Courchevel this summer
Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Courchevel makes for a stunning holiday destination with alpine forests, mountain vistas and stunning lakes. And, while it is best known as a winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts, Courchevel has plenty to offer during the summer months as well. In fact, if you ask someone who’s settled in the area what they love about Courchevel, it won’t be long before the summer comes up. Because, although most people come here for the winter, the truth is, they stay for the summer.
So, in this month’s blog, we thought we’d share what makes Courchevel such a special place in the summertime. If you're looking for something to do this summer and a picturesque alpine escape with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures piques your interests, here’s five compelling reasons why you should visit Courchevel this summer.
Majestic mountain landscapes and endless hiking adventures
Courchevel and the surrounding mountains are best appreciated in the spring and summer months. As the snow melts, it unveils a picturesque landscape filled with lush green meadows, vibrant wildflowers, and majestic mountain peaks. As well as whistling marmottes, grazing alpine cows, goats and chamois. If you’re into hiking there is endless terrain to explore, from leisurely strolls along the myriad of footpaths that connect the small hamlets and villages, to multi day hut-to-hut adventures, staying at one of the many mountain refuges dotted about locally.
Courchevel itself has lots of great walking options, with maps and info supplied by the tourist office. And, it’s worth noting that several of the ski lifts operate over July and August if you’d rather take the lift in one direction, or if people in your party have accessibility issues. Alternatively, a mere 20 minute car journey takes you up into the stunning Vanoise national park with incredible flora and fauna everywhere you look. If you’re interested in staying overnight in the park, linking day hikes, check out the Savoie Alpine mountain club website which details the options for both manned and unmanned mountain refuges.
Action sports to get your adrenaline pumping
If you’re looking for something a bit adrenaline-fueled, then don’t worry, Courchevel and the surrounding area have you covered. In summer, many of the ski runs become mountain biking routes, with options for beginners through to advanced mountain bikers, offering twists, turns and jumps on trails from Courchevel to Méribel and beyond to the pretty village of St Martin de Belleville.
Or why not embark on an exhilarating paragliding experience to witness the awe-inspiring views from above? Taking off from the top of Saulire or Col de la Loze, you’ll see the area in all its glory as you soar to the ground, safely strapped to your guide.
If you have a head for heights, there’s also some amazing via ferrata routes, which allow you to scale the heights and climb exposed faces, safely attached to the rails with your climbing harness and via ferrata gear. For beginners, Lac de la Rosiere is a great and beautiful option. Whereas more adventure seekers might fancy the exposed Saulire route.
Fine dining and culinary delights
Courchevel is not only a summer paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but it’s also a great option for foodies. Some of our favourite restaurants are open over the summer, including the Bistro de Praz and Le Farcon in La Tania, offering creative and local cuisine with first class French wine. What’s not to like?!
Or, if you prefer something more rustic, you can visit many of the local markets (Moutiers has a bustling market every Tuesday and Friday) to fill your boots with cheese and charcuterie and enjoy a leisurely picnic with local treats. Or enjoy a hearty Alpine meal at one of the mountain refuges and casual local eateries. We love the Refuge de Bois at Champagny en haut.
Witness firsthand the incredible atmosphere of the Tour de France
One of the highlights of visiting Courchevel this summer will almost certainly be the arrival of the prestigious Tour de France. As one of the most iconic cycling races in the world, the Tour de France attracts cycling enthusiasts from around the globe. And, although impressive on TV, there’s nothing like witnessing the energy and excitement firsthand as the riders tackle the challenging mountain stages in the French Alps, with a great atmosphere as the crowds cheer them on.
Courchevel will form part of the 17th stage in 2023, with riders covering 166km from St Gervais to Courchevel on the 19th July, including 4 mountain passes and several iconic resorts. As riders approach the finish in Courchevel, they’ll pass through St Bon, Courchevel Le Praz, La Tania and Méribel. before tackling the ascent to the Col de la Loze from the challenging Méribel side.. From there, they’ll finish with the steep descent towards Courchevel 1850 and the Courchevel Altiport.
Wellness and relaxation
If rejuvenation and wellness are more your cup of tea, then you’ll be pleased to learn that many of the options we covered in a previous blog on wellbeing activities are available over the summer too. As well as the obvious pursuits of exploring nature and getting out into the great outdoors, you can also enjoy a refreshing dip in a mountain lake, or a relaxing or exhilarating outdoor yoga or pilates class, enjoying the tranquillity of nature, or, at your convenience in the comfort of your chalet.
Aquamotion is also open over the summer months so you can enjoy the relaxing waters of their outdoor pool, or get some hot/cold therapy, alternating between their various saunas and steam rooms, and ice-cold plunge pool.
In conclusion, Courchevel offers a unique summer experience, where you can revel in the beauty of nature, engage in thrilling outdoor adventures, indulge in the region's rich gastronomy, and be a part of the exhilarating Tour de France.
And the best part? Chalet Celeste is open for business and taking booking for self-catered stays over the summer. So, if you’re looking for a modern and comfortable chalet, set in the quaint mountain setting of Courchevel Le Praz - get in touch. Then you can sit back and dream of summer mountain adventures.
