5 Reasons we love spring skiing

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With long sunny days, warmer temperatures, soft snow and the sounds of birds tweeting once more, spring has truly sprung in the Alps.  And it’s fair to say that spring is a special time in the Alps – loved by locals and holiday makers alike!  If you’ve not managed to squeeze in a ski holiday yet this year, or are pondering another breakaway, here’s 5 reasons we love spring skiing….

 

1. The days are long. With more daylight hours and longer lift opening times, you can make the most of long days on the slopes, getting in a solid 8 hours. Or, you can let it flow into apres on a bustling sun terrace as you watch the sun go down.

 

2. Warm and sunny days. Warmer temperatures help to soften the snow, making it more forgiving and great to learn on. And if you’ve got children, you don’t need to worry so much about them getting cold in the spring.

 

person skiing

3. Avoid the crowds. With February half term out of the way, the slopes are generally quieter and the lift queues shorter, meaning less faff and more ski time.

 

4. Alfresco dining. Who doesn’t love lunch in the sun? While sunny days can be found throughout the winter, lunching outside in January while wrapped up in warm jackets, gloves and scarves isn’t quite the same as a warm spring skiing day where you can peel off layers, sit back and really relax.

 

Le Bouc Blanc La Tania France

 

5. The party atmosphere. The sun always seems to bring out the best in everyone – and the same is certainly true in the Alps! The long sunny days of spring seem to lift the atmosphere in-resort, where the music and drinks flow and everyone is living their best lives.

 

So there you have it, five great reasons that we love spring skiing. If you fancy squeezing in a last minute ski holiday this spring we still have some limited availability in our two stunning self-catered chalets, just metres from the piste in La Tania, at the heart of the Three Valleys. Contact us to find out more, and we hope to see you soon!

Best hot chocolate in the Three Valleys

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If you’re heading to the Three Valleys skiing, and are looking to indulge your sweet tooth, then our guide to the best hot chocolate spots in the Three Valleys is just the ticket. Encompassing the creamiest hot chocolates from Courchevel, Méribel and the Belleville valley, our tried and tested recommendations will keep you fueled for a week skiing the Three Valleys – perfect for children and big kids too!

Piste Noire, Courchevel 1850

If you’re in need of a serious chocolate hit, be sure to stop by Piste Noire in the Forum in Courchevel 1850. Run by Argentinian chocolatier Florencia, Piste Noire sells handmade organic and gluten-free chocolate, using South American cocoa beans and a secret Patagonian recipe. From their café they also sell a decadent hot chocolate made using just organic chocolate, milk and a little sugar, thickened over four hours of continuous turning.

Le Bel Air, Courchevel 1650 (on the mountain)

At the top of the Ariondaz bubble is the Bel Air. A popular spot, with stunning views across the Courchevel valley, the Bel Air has a restaurant with a cracking sun terrace and a choice of table or deck chairs, as well as a more relaxed snack bar with picnic benches. They serve a great hot chocolate – with or without alcohol – but it’s the setting that really makes it worth a visit. Easy for non-skiers to join you too to take in the sights.

Castors, Meribel Centre

Located in the the Chaudanne, behind the Tougnette bubble, Castors is a welcoming spot with a cosy open fire. They’re also renowned for their hot chocolate which comes topped with lashings of cream and sweets scattered amongst it for a serious sugar hit.

Adret Telebar, Méribel (on the mountain)

Nestled in the trees by the bottom of the Adret chair is the well-loved Hotel Adret Telebar with it’s big open fire and lounge with comfy chairs to enjoy a well reserved rest. Their hot chocolate is served by the jug, with free cakes or pastries to really seal the deal.

Maya Altitude, on the ridge between St Martin and Méribel (on the mountain)

Near the top of the Tougnette lift, overlooking the Belleville Valley sits the new and hip mountain restaurant the Maya Altitude, complete with a lovely sun terrace to take in the panoramic views. If you fancy a treat, this is a great option for a hot chocolate and you might even be lucky enough to enjoy some live music while you’re there.

Best non-skiing activities in Courchevel

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While most people heading to Courchevel will have skiing in mind, there’s plenty more to do in-resort that doesn’t involve donning two planks and heading downhill. From taking a dip, to exploring the local scenery, there is plenty to see and do for people of all ages. So, whether you’re a non-skier heading to resort, or you’d like your holiday to include some other activities, our guide to non-skiing activities in Courchevel can help you get the most from your next visit.

  1. Enjoy a relaxing soak at Aquamotion. Courchevel’s aquatic centre includes slides, an outdoor whirlpool, diving area, kids pool and lane swimming area. As well as an adjacent adult only spa for some serious relaxation, including indoor and outdoor pool, salt cave, several saunas and hammams. Or, for those looking for a bit more adrenaline, you can tackle the waves in their surf simulator.
  2. No trip to Courchevel is complete without enjoying the culinary delights. From molten cheese feasts to Michelin starred menus, there’s plenty of choices to make your heart and belly sing. You can review some of our favourite restaurants for foodies here.
  3. Courchevel has not one, but two sledging options. You can take the exhilarating route through the trees from Courchevel (1850) down to Village. Or, enjoy the Moriond racing track from the top of Ariondaz bubble back to resort.
  4. Aim for a strike at the 10-pin bowling adult in the Forum in Courchevel (1850).
  5. Head down to the médiathèque at Alpinium in Le Praz. This multi-media library is a comfy and relaxing place where you can peruse their books, or bring your own, and bunker down in a bean bag or cosy corner when the clouds come in.
  6. Channel your inner Torvill and Dean at the ice skating rink in Courchevel (1850).
  7. Escape the crowds and explore the myriad of forest trails on a guided snow shoeing adventure. If you book a guide you’ll also benefit from their local knowledge of the flora and fauna.
  8. Courchevel is essentially a network of inter-linked villages – each with their own character and charm. You can easily while away a day people watching and window shopping in Courchevel (1850), wander the quaint streets of Courchevel Le Praz and the narrow alleys of St Bon. All the villages are linked by the free resort bus.

Insider tips to the perfect self-catered ski holiday in La Tania

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On the edge of Courchevel, in the heart of the Three Valleys, La Tania makes a great ski destination for skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities. In recent years many chalet companies have started offering self-catered ski holidays in La Tania – us included. Self-catered breaks provide greater flexibility, more privacy, and – importantly in the current situation – less contact with people outside of your party. So, if it’s your first time going self-catered and you’re after a few tips, then this insider’s guide to a self-catered ski holiday in La Tania might be just the ticket.

  1. Plan ahead. Shopping in-resort can be a little pricey, so it’s worth a little pre-planning to ensure your shopping stays within budget. There is a great supermarket (Super U) enroute in Moutiers, just after you turn off the dual carriageway, before you head up the hill. You can always organise a click & collect too to save time or if you are staying with Ski-Dazzle, we can collect for you, for a fee.
  2. Re-stock up at the Sherpa. If you forget anything or need to top up during the week there is a Sherpa in-resort which stocks a decent range of fresh and dried foods and drinks at a fairly reasonable price.
  3. Make the most of the local boulangerie. The bakery in La Tania is open from 7am in the morning so you can enjoy fresh bread and croissants for breakfast, or get enough to make packed lunches for on the hill, or if you are staying with Ski-Dazzle, we can organise a daily delivery to your chalet.
  4. Enjoy a night off cooking – order dinner in. If you fancy a night off the cooking, and don’t fancy all heading out on the town you can order a meal in; or even organise your own private chef. Contact us for food delivery and chef options. 
  5. Bring the essentials with you. OK, this is clearly dependent upon your mode of transport, however if you have room in your suitcase / hand luggage / car, and restrictions allow, here are a few essentials you might like to bring: tea / coffee, Marmite, spices and (hear us out) a slow cooker. Admittedly, the latter requires a little more room, but it is perfect for preparing food in advance so you can return home to a hot meal after a day on the slopes.
  6. Fuel up at lunchtime. Do you often get carried away at lunch and struggle to eat your evening meal while skiing? Or fancy taking advantage of great value lunch deals, like Michelin-starred Le Farcon’s skier lunch? Given the flexibility of a self-catered break you can fill your boots at lunchtime and just snack on bread and cheese for supper. 
  7. Enjoy a cheese soiree. The deli in La Tania (Saveurs des Alpes) rents fondue and raclette machines so you can enjoy a cheese feast at the fraction of the price from the comfort of your chalet.  If you stay with Ski-Dazzle, we offer a Raclette Evening.
  8. Share the load. No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen all holiday so if you draw up a rota or take turns cooking dinner you’ll have plenty of time to kick back, or enjoy the local après while someone else prepares dinner.

The perfect day skiing Courchevel and La Tania

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Now the borders are open again to Brits, focus once more is on upcoming trips and how to make the most of that long awaited ski holiday. If you’re coming to Courchevel or La Tania this winter and want some insider tips then you’ve come to the right place. With many years spent skiing the slopes of Courchevel we’ve a few perfectly honed itineraries to make your ski day one to remember. In the spirit of sharing, this is our idea of a perfect day skiing in Courchevel, setting off from Ski Dazzle’s home in La Tania.

Make the most of fresh corduroy in La Tania

First off, it’s worth checking where has been pisted and prioritise those runs first. There is a grooming report at most major lift stations, as well as online at S3V. The two runs down to La Tania – Folyeres and Plan Fontaine for example are cracking pistes when nicely groomed, but you likely only ski them home at the end of the day when they’re all cut up. So, if they’re freshly pisted and looking slick, it might be worth giving them a quick run, before heading up, up and away. 

Ski wide open pistes in Courchevel (1850)

Courchevel 1850 area has some nice wide open pistes, but can also get quite busy, so if you’re here on a busy week it’s worth avoiding key lift stations like Verdons and Chenus, and staying higher up. So, coming up from La Tania, take the bubble, then the Bouc Blanc chair and hang a right to take the blue run down to pick up the Biollay chair.

From the top of Biollay, ski the cruisey blue of the same name back to the chair, before lapping it again, this time taking skiers left to ski Marquetty (so long as it’s been pisted) before taking the chair again. If you fancy skiing through the family park you can do another lap here to take that in. Then, from the top of Biollay, if you head right you can ski blue run Pralong which has a few fun but gentle rollers towards the end.

If it’s a nice day and you fancy a drink in the sun, head down to the snack bar by the bottom of the Pralong chair where you can take a break in the picnic benches in the sun.

Ski through the trees to Courchevel Village (1550)

From there, there is a little-used run through the trees down to Courchevel Village (1550) called Cospilot. It snakes through the fancy chalets and takes a scenic route away from the crowds. You can then ski down to Village, and pick up the Tovets chair which will take you back to Courchevel.

Ski down, staying left, to pick up the Plantrey chair, under which you might be lucky enough to watch the kids training skiing the gates, making it look effortless! From the top of the chair take a left and ski gentle red Loze, staying to the right so that you can take the boulevard half way down which will take you back to Biollay. From the top of the chair ski straight on to to ski Pralong-Suisses, down to the Suisses chair. This will then take you up to the top of Saulire where you can take in the views and grab a selfie or two. 

It’s likely getting to lunchtime now, which means the pistes should be quietening down. To make the most of this quiet time it’s worth taking a late lunch. 

Enjoy the late sun in Courchevel Moriond

The pistes above Courchevel Moriond (1650) get the sun later in the day so it’s a great area to spend late afternoon. So, if you head straight on from the top of Suisses and take the boulevard in the direction of Méribel, you’ll find yourself at the top of Creux. Enjoy this popular and long blue run, skiing it’s length down to valley bottom before taking the Roc Mugnier chair.

If you’re getting peckish and ready for lunch, the Bel Air, at the top of the Ariondaz bubble is a good choice. On sunny days their sun terrace is spectacular, with stunning views. Or, if it’s cold and snowy, enjoy the cozy interior beside the fire. We’d highly recommend their vin chaud! Or, if you’re on a budget, their snack bar is another great option. 

After lunch, if you still have some time left, enjoy the myriad of cruisey blues and gentle reds that run beneath the Signal chair (Grande Bosses, Gentianes and Ariondaz), as well as the fun reds lapable by the Chapelets chair (Chapelets, Bel Air and Rochers). Just make sure you leave enough time to make it back to La Tania.

Head back to La Tania, stopping for a drink at après enroute

From the top of Signal or Chapelets you can reach the Aiguille du Fruit bowl by the red Roc Mugnier, although the blue boulevard which is accessed to the left at the bottom of Gentianes is often a much nicer option. Either way, take the Aiguille du Fruit chair and turn right at the top, taking the blue down past the Altiport (airport). If you’re lucky, you might see someone land or take off. Keep heading down under the Pralong chair but stay high and to the left to pick up the Bellecote blue piste which will take you back to Courchevel. 

Here you have two options, depending on timing and your preference….

Option 1: Ski through Courchevel, under the bridge, stay left and ski past the Plantrey chair to your right, taking Brigues down to Courchevel Le Praz. Enjoy a vin chaud at the Peupliers hotel in this quaint village, before hopping on the bus back to La Tania.

Option 2: Take the Plantrey chair, then ski down Bouc Blanc before taking the Dou de Lanches chair to the top of Col de la Loze and enjoy a tipple at 1928 restaurant while watching the sun drop, before skiing home to La Tania via Lanches (red) or Dou de Lanches (black) then Folyeres.

Best restaurants for vegetarians in the Three Valleys

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OK, so France isn’t exactly renowned for vegetarian cuisine. Vegetarians living in France in the past have had to endure many a green salad and plate of chips over the years, while watching friends tuck into juicy steaks. Thankfully however, the French are starting to catch on, with vegetarian options starting to pop up on most restaurant menus. So, if you’re a veggie – or you’re trying to eat less meat (labels not required) – then here is our list of some of the best restaurants in the Three Valleys for vegetarians.

Vegetarian options – on the mountain

 

Bouc Blanc, at the top of the La Tania bubble

The Bouc Blanc is a winner for skiers looking for tasty food, decent portions and great value. It’s also a great option for veggies, offering a selection of dishes including a ginormous and delicious Beaufort tart, a whopping cheese omelette with mounds of fries, a vegan bowl, pesto linguine and some nice but simple salads. Save some room for dessert though – their café gourmand is not to be missed!

Cucina Angelina, bottom of the slopes in Courchevel Moriond

Named after owner and celebrity chef Angelina Hartnett, Cucina Angelina serves Italian food with a sprinkling of French Savoyard flavours. It’s not cheap, but with slippers to replace your ski boots and a swanky lounge area to enjoy an aperitif, it’s worth the splurge. Veggie options include a flavour-packed salad, and a number of pizzas and pasta dishes – including a porcini tagliatelle and four cheese pizza.

Jacks Bar, bottom of the slopes in Méribel

British-run restaurant Jacks serves tasty pub food done well. They also cater well for veggies serving up veggie nachos, bang bang cauliflower, a super tasty veggie burger (made from beetroot and beans), tofu drunken noodles and several veggie pizza options.   

Wok Ski, near the bottom of the Moraine and Portet chairlifts, Val Thorens

Wok Ski is an Asian fusion restaurant popular with seasonnaires and holiday makers alike – and for good reason. They serve super tasty vegetarian noodles, soups and wraps which are cooked fresh and great value.  Their menu is based on a build-your-own concept, so you can choose your base (rice or noodles), then pick from meat or veggie additions and finally your choice of sauce. If you like yours packed with flavour you can also help yourself to fresh coriander and chilli to finish it off. Best for sunny days, the food comes in take away boxes which you can feast from in the sun on their terrace of deck chairs.

Vegetarian options – in resort

 

Copiña, Courchevel Moriond

Tapas bar-come-restaurant Copiña, serves a selection of delicious tapas dishes, which work well for vegetarians looking to try a number of dishes. Veggie options include padron peppers, patatas bravas, Jerusalem artichoke chips, spanish omelette, olives and a manchego salad. 

Le Petit Savoyard, Courchevel Moriond

Run by the charming Pascal and his wife Babette, Le Petit Savoyard is a Courchevel favourite. As well as the traditional Savoyard veggie options of fondue and raclette, this year they’ve added a number of decent veggie options to their repertoire. Choose from a delicious hot goats cheese salad, creamy mushroom ravioli and a veggie burger.

Le Farçon, La Tania

Michelin-starred Le Farçon isn’t an obvious choice for vegetarians, renowned for serving up sumptuous meat and fish dishes inspired by the Savoie and local mountain regions. However, if you ring ahead and tell them you’re vegetarian they cater very well – offering delicious veggie options for each course. And, starting at 42€ for a 3-course (closer to 6-courses all in) feast, it’s well worth a visit.

Barometer, Méribel Centre

Based in the centre of Méribel, Barometer serves delicious pub food, with an Italian influence. Head chef James has introduced a number of veggie options including an amazing veggie lasagne which is highly recommended! As well as a mushroom soup, burrata salad, pesto genovese tagliatelle and a boite chaude (hot melted local cheese served with roasted new potatoes and salad). Think fresh, tasty and hearty portions).

 

Getting to and from the Alps

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For many years the large majority of international travellers arrived in the Alps by plane. But in a post-Covid world, and one in which many travellers are considering the environmental impact of their holiday, the question of the best way to get to the Alps is a hot topic for winter holiday makers this year.

So, if you’re tasked with planning this winters’ ski break, we break down the pros and cons of the different options, to help make your journey to the Alps as seamless as possible

Plane

Flying has traditionally been the most popular mode of transport to the Alps. From that obligatory Wetherspoons pint to perusing the shops in the duty free lounge, being in an airport gives you that holiday vibe. And, depending on your base in the UK, it can be one of the most convenient and quickest options. It is, however, also the most high contact, and so, in the current climate, might not be everyone’s preferred option.

Estimated duration to the Three Valleys: From check-in to clearing customers Alps-side you’re looking at about 4 – 4.5 hrs, depending on your UK airport. With an additional 2 – 3 hrs to get to resort by hire car or private transfer.

Estimated cost (for return journey): Plane ticket prices vary hugely from week to week. But you’re likely to pay around 150 – 400€ per person to fly to Geneva or Lyon. A private transfer there and back will then set you back about an additional 600€ – 700€. 

Pros: It’s easy, and relatively low stress. It’s also likely the quickest, especially for those based outside London.

Cons: In addition to the flight, you’ll need to factor in the additional costs of UK airport parking and / or transport to the airport, and transfers or car hire in the Alps. Flying is one of the least environmentally friendly options of travel, as well as the most high-contact. And luggage allowances can make bringing skis and equipment pretty pricey. 

Car

With concerns about the level of contact associated with travel, it seems more people are considering driving to the Alps. After a short trip across the channel (30 mins by the Channel Tunnel or 90-120 mins by ferry from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk) it’s about 11 hrs drive to the Alps, factoring in a few stops along the way. France’s motorway system is easy to navigate and the roads are generally pretty clear, however, you do pay for the privilege with some fairly high tolls.

Estimated duration to the Three Valleys: 30 – 120 min channel crossing, and then 11hrs from arriving in France (assuming you arrive around Calais).

Estimated cost (for return journey): 200 – 400€ for ferry or channel tunnel, depending on period of travel; 200 – 300€ for fuel, depending on your vehicle; and around 180€ for tolls, unless you’re driving a van or high vehicle where costs will be higher.

Pros: If there are a number of people travelling in one vehicle it can be the most cost-effective mode of transport. You’re not restricted by luggage limits (except by what you can fit in the car), and if you’re going self-catered, it allows you to bring supplies or pick them up from a supermarket enroute. Plus, if you’re concerned in Covid times about keeping contact to a minimum, car travel is the most low-contact option. 

Cons: It’s a legal requirement in the French Alps, and many other mountainous areas of Europe to have either winter tyres or snow chains for your vehicle. So, if you’ve not already got any, that could increase the cost. With the tolls on French motorways it’s more expensive than you think, so it can be an expensive option if there’s just one or two of you. If you don’t live close to Dover it can also be quite a long journey.

Train

The so-called snow train which Eurostar ran to bring skiers direct to the Alps throughout the winter is sadly a thing of the past. In its place a private company are running a similar service, however it’s only offered now as part of a full package. So, skiers looking to take the train to the Alps (and stay in a resort and accommodation of their choosing) will need to take the normal Eurostar route, which involves a station change in Paris. The first train swiftly takes you from St Pancras through to Paris Gare du Nord. You can then hop in a taxi or take the underground two stops to get to Gare du Lyon, where you’ll catch the next high speed train to Chambery, before boarding your final leg to Moutiers. Although it does require a bit of planning, it is a comfortable way to travel, and the most environmentally friendly option of the three.

Estimated duration to the Three Valleys: From St Pancras to Moutiers takes about 8 hrs. You can then hop on a bus or take a taxi up the hill and be in Courchevel in 30 mins. 

Estimated cost (for return journey): About 200 – 400€ for the train from London St Pancras  to Moutiers, and then 24€ for the bus to and from resort, or around 150 – 200€ for a taxi.

Pros: It’s the lowest carbon mode of transport, is comfortable and is relatively quick if you live in London.

Cons: Navigating train changes isn’t for everyone. Especially if you’re carrying lots of luggage. If you have a distance to travel before you reach London then it can make for a long journey.

 

Best restaurants in Courchevel for families

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Taking kids skiing can be a magical experience, but let’s face it, it isn’t always logistically easy. From ski school drops-offs and pick-ups to ensuring everyone is dressed and fueled for a day on the slopes can take a bit of planning.

For many of us, one of the exciting things about going on holiday is eating out, and that needn’t change just because you’ve got kids. You just need to pick the right spots, which are child-friendly and well placed, to help, not hinder, your family’s day on the slopes. Which is where our latest restaurant guide comes in… This week’s blog discusses the best restaurants in Courchevel for families, with some top insider tips to ensure your family has a great week in Courchevel.

Polar Cafe, Courchevel (1850)

The Polar Café is a relaxed bakery style coffee shop perfectly situated at the foot of the slopes in 1850. They serve a selection of tasty sandwiches, patisseries, tarts and quiches, as well as great coffee and fresh salads. 

Family factor: It’s close to the slopes and has a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also affordable, a rarity in the centre of 1850.

Price: Around 12€ for sandwich and drink.

Top tip: Given it’s location and price point it’s a popular spot and you need to find a table to get served. So, get here early if you can to get a spot. 

Bouc Blanc, on the piste above La Tania

The ever-popular Bouc Blanc sits at the top of the La Tania bubble, complete with large sun terrace for sunny days and a roaring log fire inside if the weather draws in. Their expansive menu includes your usual savoyarde dishes such as steaks, tartiflette and goats cheese salad, as well as a delicious (and ginormous) Beaufort tart, hugh omelettes and some of the best fries on the mountain. They also have a children’s menu including pasta dishes and a burger option.

Family factor: It’s affordable, with a relaxed atmosphere and speedy service. It’s also easy access, with a green run (or bubble) back to resort (La Tania). 

Price: From 11.50- 23.50€ for mains. Their plat du jour is around 18.50€.

Top tip: Service is super fast and comes out in minutes so make sure you’re ready to go once your orders have been placed.

Copiña, Courchevel Moriond (1650)

Whether you’re looking for a lunch or evening meal, 1650’s tapas bar-come-restaurant Copiña, is a great option for kids and adults alike. They serve a delicious selection of main dishes and tapas for those happy to share, including tapas favourites such as patatas bravas and calamari, as well as more inventive dishes such as Morocain braised lamb belly and saffron and sweetcorn donuts.

Family factor: It’s just a few minutes walk from the foot of the piste making it a great option for lunch with kids. Plus, they have a dedicated kids’ menu including pasta and burger options.

Price: Tapas are priced from 8 – 14€, with mains around the 20€ mark.

Top tip: Don’t miss their patatas bravas, with homemade aioli and harissa toppings! Sometimes it’s the simple dishes that really delight.

Tapas at Copina Courchevel

Ski Lodge, La Tania

The Ski Lodge is a favourite with La Tania regulars. It’s relaxed and accessible, serving up hearty pub grub, for lunch and dinner, that won’t break the bank. From big and juicy burgers to Asian-inspired main dishes, The Ski Lodge has something to suit all the family. 

Family factor: It’s slopeside making it ideal for a family lunch, with a dedicated kids’ menu.

Price: From 12.90 – 17.50€ for mains.

Top tip: Their burgers are best served pink. But if you like them cooked through be sure to say.

La Cortona, Courchevel Village (1550)

Who doesn’t love a good pizza? From experience, it’s certainly a favourite with children, so no self-respecting Courchevel family restaurant guide would be complete without a decent pizza restaurant. And La Cortona does pizzas well! With a wide selection of pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, as well as some Savoyarde main dishes, there’s plenty for all the family to choose from, served by friendly staff in a relaxed setting.

Family factor: It’s pizza! – priced fairly.

Price: From 12 – 19€ per pizza.

Top tip: Their pizzas are giant – perfect for sharing, if you’re not feeling super hungry.

So there you have it, a complete list of family-friendly restaurants in Courchevel. If you’re interested in other restaurant guides then check out our previous guides on: best restaurants in Courchevel for groups and best restaurants in Courchevel for foodies. And do let us know if you’ve got any additions to suggest. Happy eating!

When To Ski: The Pros and Cons of Different Times of The Season

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Wondering when the best time to go skiing in Alps is? The answer depends on what you value most, whether it’s fresh powder, quiet slopes, sunshine, or festive vibes. In this updated guide, we explore the pros and cons of skiing in each month of the season to help you choose the right time to hit the slopes in the Three Valleys.

 

During a recent visit to the UK it seems the fallow year has left many desperate to hit the slopes again this winter. If you’ve got a hankering for snowy pistes, a vin chaud at après or a cheese feast at a mountain restaurant, then perhaps you’ve started the process of planning your next ski trip? 

Few decisions will affect the success of your holiday more than when and where to ski. Get those two choices right and you’re well on your way to the ski trip you’ve been dreaming of.

We’ll discuss the vast considerations for where to ski in a later blog. In this article we share the pros and cons of different stages of the season to help you choose when to ski this winter. 

December: Early season skiing – Quiet & Budget-Friendly (But Risky)

Most resorts across the Alps open their pistes in early December for skiers and boarders chomping at the bit to get some early season snow (NB. Courchevel opens on 4th December this year and La Tania on 11th December). While it can be a risk from a snow perspective, early season skiing yields some great bargains for those willing to take a punt. 

Pros: Great deals to be had, often reduced-price lift passes, quiet slopes

Cons: No guarantee on snow, not everything is always open in resort

Tip: Best time to go skiing on a budget? Early December is your window.

Christmas and New Year: Magical Holiday Atmosphere

Few things beat the feeling of celebrating Christmas in a snowy alpine resort.  It’s little wonder why the likes of Wham recorded their Christmas hit singles in a ski resort. Nothing says Christmas like fresh snow, Christmas trees and fairy lights. And while there’s no guarantee of snowfall on the big day, it certainly is a magical place to be at that festive time of year. The same goes for welcoming in the new year: afresh start in the most beautiful and peaceful setting. 

Pros: Great place to celebrate the festive period, take the stress out of Christmas, great deals can be found for Christmas week, New Year’s celebrations with a bang

Cons: New Year is often busy in-resort and one of the more expensive weeks for  accommodation, not always great snow if the season starts badly

Note: Book your Christmas week ski chalet early – by summer – to secure your spot.

 

January Skiing: Snow-Sure, Quiet and Cold

January is often the best time to go skiing for snow quality and quiet slopes. it is typically the coldest time of year in the mountains. And while this might not appeal to après ski lovers, it does mean it’s often the best time of year from a skiing perspective, with great snow and quiet pistes.

Pros: Often the best snow, quiet pistes, one of the cheapest times to ski – with great deals to be had

Cons: Short days, cold temperatures

Bonus: This is when locals and frequent skiers book to enjoy premium snow without the chaos.

 

February Half Term: Family-Friendly but Crowded

If you’re tied to school holidays, February half-term skiing is popular but comes at a price. Admittedly, most half-term skiers ski then from a “needs must” perspective, restricted by school holidays. And while it can be busy and is an expensive option, it’s usually a safer bet from a snow perspective than Christmas or Easter breaks, and the temperatures are warmer as spring approaches.

Pros: More snow sure than other school holiday periods, decent temperatures, and longer days

Cons: Busy slopes and restaurants, expensive

Quote from a ski forum: “Avoid February like the plague. It’s packed and pricey. March gives you sun and reasonable snow, and April is peaceful.”

 

March Skiing: Sunshine, Après & Reliable Snow 

March may be the best month to go skiing if you enjoy après-ski, longer days, and softer weather. If sunshine and après are equally (or perhaps more) important to you than the skiing itself, then March can be a great time to ski. Think long sunny days, freshly groomed pistes and a cold beer on a sun terrace as the sun sets over the mountain, without needing to worry about cold toes or frost-nipped skin.

Pros: Long days, warm temperatures, still early enough to expect decent snow

Cons: Can get a little slushy if it’s a warm season

Tip: March is the best time to ski for blue skies and mountain lunches in the sun.

 

April Skiing: End-of-Season Value + Spring Conditions

Looking for late-season skiing in the Three Valleys? April can deliver if you’re smart about where you go.

Easter skiing can be considered risky from a skiing perspective. And it can be, in low resorts. But suppose you mitigate that risk by holidaying somewhere with higher options and decent snow-making facilities (like in the Three Valleys). In that case, you’ll benefit from long sunny days, with an end-of-season party vibe to enjoy as holiday makers and locals alike celebrate the end of another winter season. And who knows, you might be blessed with a late-season dump of snow.

Pros: Long sunny days, warm temperatures (great for small children), cheaper than February half-term skiing, closing parties to enjoy

Cons: Not snow sure, some parts of the resort may close early

Tip: Choose higher altitude resorts like Courchevel and La Tania for late-season snow reliability.

 

How Far in Advance Should I Book My Ski Holiday?

For La Tania, book your ski trip 6–9 months in advance to get the best availability and price especially for Christmas, New Year, and February half-term.

Booking Period Ideal For
July–September Peak dates like Christmas or Half-Term
October–December March or April skiing, last-minute catered chalets
January onward Late deals for low-demand weeks

So there you have it, a full breakdown to help you choose when to ski this winter. With each part of the season having its own pros and cons it’s important to weigh up what matters most to you and your party to help you choose when to ski.

 

When Is the Best Time to Go Skiing in Alps?

There’s no single answer. It depends on your priorities.

  • Want quiet slopes and deep snow? Go in January.
  • Looking for a festive winter holiday? Try Christmas or New Year.
  • Prefer sunny après-ski and terrace lunches? Book in March.

Every month has its perks, but if you’re planning to ski in the French Alps, the best time to book is always: as early as possible.

Looking for the right chalet in La Tania? Check our availability today and secure your ideal week on the slopes.

 

If you’re looking to book your winter holiday and fancy skiing in the glorious Three Valleys this year, get in touch today to take the first step towards planning your perfect winter getaway.

6 reasons you should book a self-catered chalet holiday

/dans /par

With the summer drawing to a close and our social media feeds full of first day of school shots, thoughts once more turn to wintry adventures ahead.

If you’re keen to get back on the slopes this winter and plan your next ski holiday, you’re likely considering chalet options to match the needs of your party. After choosing your resort, booking the right type of package is one of the key choices that could mean the difference between a good holiday and a great one. 

There are two main options available: a catered break where your breakfast and dinner are provided; or self-catered, where as the name alludes, when it comes to food you call the shots.

On first impression a catered break can seem the most convenient option. However it can also leave your party tied down. So, if you have the job of party leader for your next ski trip here are 6 reasons why you should choose a self-catered chalet holiday:

  1. A self-catered chalet offers total flexibility. Do you often get caught up at après and want to keep the party going? With a self-catered holiday you’re not tied to meals at a set time. You can go with the flow and follow the action.
  2. Eat what you want, where you want. Fancy trying out one of the local restaurants for dinner? Sharing a raclette in the chalet? Ordering a meal delivery? Or booking a private chef? With a self-catered ski chalet you’re in the driving seat.
  3. Beat the bloat. With multiple courses per night, often following a heavy lunch, a catered chalet break can leave even the most gourmet skiers feeling stuffed. But, with a self-catered ski break if you’ve gorged on cheese at lunch you can choose to skip a big meal and just enjoy a light bite for dinner. 
  4. Tailor your meals to your party. While catered ski holidays may allow for dietary requirements, they’ll rarely provide the flexibility to choose the type of cuisine and actual meals you’d prefer. To meet all your wants and needs, in a self-catered chalet you can book a private chef who will contact you before you arrive to discuss options and create a fully tailored meal plan.
  5. Enjoy the freedom to eat with friends or family staying locally. If your party is spread across different accommodation, or you know people living in-resort, with your own chalet at your disposal you’re free to cater for friends or eat out with them.
  6. Have the chalet to yourself. Whether for privacy reasons or health concerns, not everyone enjoys having a host or chef around. With a self-catered chalet you’ll have the place to yourself without interruptions or contact with people outside your party.

So there you have it: 6 reasons you should book a self-catered chalet holiday. Here at Ski Dazzle we have two great self-catered chalets to choose from. So, get in touch today to plan your next ski adventure.