Courchevel is the crown jewel of the French Alps, an internationally renowned ski resort offering world-class slopes, ultra-luxury properties, and an exclusive lifestyle.  

A favourite of the Prince William and Kate Middleton, Elton John and Robbie Williams, Courchevel has developed a reputation as a retreat for the global elite. 

Situated in Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area, Courchevel provides direct access to 600km of interconnected ski runs. With state-of-the-art lift infrastructure, a long ski season, and guaranteed snow cover due to its north-facing slopes, it has become a premier location for affluent property buyers.  

From the Michelin-starred restaurants of Courchevel 1850 to the authentic Alpine charm of Le Praz, each of the resort’s five villages offers something distinct. Whether buyers seek the glamour of designer boutiques and high-end après-ski or a quieter retreat with strong rental appeal, Courchevel presents an unparalleled investment opportunity.  In the last year alone, according to one reliable estimate, prices increased by 9% to €31,600 per square metre. 

A look up at the mountain homes of Courchevel

Unlike many Alpine resorts that developed from farming communities, Courchevel was purpose-built in 1946 as part of France’s post-war tourism initiative. Its design prioritised ski-in/ski-out convenience, making it one of the most accessible resorts in the Alps.  

By the 1990s, Courchevel had evolved into a playground for the global elite, drawing royalty, billionaires, and celebrities. The early 2000s saw a surge in Russian investment, further cementing its status as one of the most expensive ski destinations in the world.  

Today, it remains synonymous with high-end Alpine living, attracting buyers from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.  

Why buy property in Courchevel?  

Courchevel offers exceptional skiing with 150km of local pistes, seamlessly connected to Les Trois Vallées, ensuring unparalleled variety and challenge for skiers of all levels.  

Each of Courchevel’s five villages presents distinct characteristics suited to different buyers. Courchevel 1850, the most prestigious, features ultra-luxury chalets. As the most exclusive village, Courchevel 1850 is known for its grand chalets and opulent residences.  

Many properties feature classic wooden facades, large balconies, and steeply pitched roofs, tying the architecture to the landscape while incorporating modern luxuries like underground garages, glass-walled living spaces, and private wellness areas. The architecture often follows a “new Alpine” style, where traditional exteriors hide cutting-edge interiors.    

Courchevel Moriond (1650) offers a sunnier, family-friendly atmosphere with premium yet more affordable properties. Courchevel Village (1550) provides a more accessible entry point to the resort, blending charm with convenience. Courchevel Le Praz (1300) stands out for its authentic Alpine ambiance, boasting traditional stone chalets and direct gondola access to 1850.  

“Courchevel 1850 has a reputation for being notoriously expensive, with a certain demographic of person buying and going there,” SnowOnly founder Mark Lightfoot told us in a webinar exploring Les Trois Vallées. “I’m not sure that that’s 100% the case. But, even if you go down to 1650 or 1550, it will be a very different feel, and if you go down to Le Praz, it’s very authentic.”

As with the settlement higher up the mountain, these villages stay close to authentic Savoyard architecture, characterised by stone foundations, exposed wooden beams, and steeply sloped roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. In Le Praz, particularly, the architecture retains a quaint, historic Alpine village feel, with narrow streets and preserved traditional chalets. 

Courchevel La Tania, a quieter ski-in/ski-out enclave, appeals to investors seeking strong rental yields.  Built in the early 1990s, La Tania showcases a more modern take on Alpine chalets, using eco-friendly timber-clad buildings that blend into the surrounding forest. The village was designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating low-impact architecture that complements the natural landscape. 

Investment potential in Courchevel remains strong due to its tightly controlled property supply, ensuring high value retention. Year-round international demand keeps occupancy rates high. This makes Courchevel one of the most resilient and lucrative property markets in the Alps.  

Many of the properties in Courchevel are ski in/ski out

Opulent lifestyle 

While Lightfoot says Courchevel 1850’s is more welcoming than its reputation suggests, the rumours of its quality lifestyle are on point. The resort has a selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, including three-starred Le 1947 and two-starred Le Chabichou.  

The après-ski scene caters to every preference, from the lively atmosphere of La Folie Douce to the exclusive nightlife at Les Caves de Courchevel.  

Elite shopping is another draw, with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Chanel having flagship stores in 1850.  

Despite its exclusivity, Courchevel is much more accessible than other elite resorts. Private jets can fly direct to Courchevel Altiport and both Geneva and Lyon airports are less than a two-hour drive away.

Find peace and quiet in Courchevel

Weather & year-round appeal  

Courchevel’s high altitude (up to 2,738m) ensures excellent snow conditions from December to April, with winters marked by crisp temperatures and heavy snowfall, creating a paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike.  

Courchevel thrives in the summer thanks to pleasantly mild weather, averaging 20°C in July and August. “If you haven’t been to the ski resort in the summer, I urge you to go,” Lightfoot says. “They are the most beautiful places. It’s a magical place to be.

One sport that makes full use of the incredible slopes is mountain biking. “In the ski season you’ll put your skis on the chair lift,” Lightfoot explains, “and in the summer season you’ll crank your bike onto the lift in front of you. When you get to the top, off you go down the pistes cycling.”

Besides cycling, you’ll find Courchevelle a prime destination for outdoor activities such as golf, horse riding, paragliding, and wellness retreats. The resort has invested heavily in dual-season tourism, further enhancing its appeal as a year-round destination.  

Find peace and quiet in the mountains of Courchevelle

The opportunities for wealthy buyers  

Owning a property in Courchevel extends beyond luxury—it provides access to a network of exclusive events, networking opportunities, and a highly desirable lifestyle. The resort hosts prestigious sporting and cultural events, attracting global elites and fostering valuable connections.  

The strong rental market ensures effortless income potential, particularly for luxury chalets in Courchevel 1850, where demand remains consistently high. Property values in the resort have shown remarkable resilience, making it a reliable investment.  

Courchevel offers unparalleled privacy, with many chalets featuring private spas, underground garages, and concierge services for discretion and security.   

For those seeking prestige, world-class skiing, and financial security, Courchevel remains the pinnacle of Alpine real estate. Its blend of exclusivity, strong rental yields, and unparalleled lifestyle makes it one of the most sought-after property markets in the world.  

Take a look at Fleur des Alpes for a chance to own a home of your own near Courchevel.