From Geneva to Courchevel: Which Village Should You Stay In?

*Collaborative Post

Courchevel isn’t just one ski resort — it’s a collection of distinct alpine villages, each offering a unique experience.

Do you picture yourself sipping champagne in a slope-side suite? Or maybe teaching your kids to ski in a quiet, snow-covered corner of the Alps? Whether it’s luxury, family-friendliness, or local charm you’re after, where you stay in Courchevel matters just as much as how you get there.

And if you’re flying into Geneva Airport, your arrival strategy is just as important as your chalet choice. Some villages are higher up and harder to reach — especially when it snows. So before you book, let’s break down the best base for your trip.

First, a Quick Look at the Villages (From Top to Bottom)

Here’s how the Courchevel villages stack up — literally. The higher the number, the higher the altitude. But there’s more than elevation separating these spots.

Courchevel 1850: Peak Luxury

• The original flagship village
• Known for 5-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and designer boutiques
• Prime ski-in/ski-out access to Les 3 Vallées
• Expect higher prices — and ultra-refined service
  

Best for: Luxury travellers, couples, those chasing the iconic Courchevel experience

Courchevel 1650 (Moriond): Space, Sun, and Value

• More laid-back than 1850, but still with great access to the ski area
• Wider, quieter slopes — perfect for intermediate skiers
• Lively après-ski scene and good value accommodation
  

Best for: Groups of friends, intermediate skiers, families with older kids

Courchevel 1550: Families and Easy Access

• Quieter village with good lift links to 1850
• Family-friendly accommodation and a calmer vibe
• Great for those who want convenience without crowds
  

Best for: Young families, beginner skiers, those on a moderate budget

Courchevel Le Praz (1300): Traditional Charm

• Authentic alpine feel with wooden chalets and narrow streets
• Close to the ski jumps from the 1992 Olympics
• Linked to 1850 via gondola
• Slower pace, local charm
  

Best for: Couples, fans of quieter villages, returning skiers looking for a different vibe

🌲 La Tania: The Hidden Gem

• Technically not “Courchevel” by name, but part of the same ski network
• Nestled in the forest between Méribel and Courchevel
• More affordable, car-free, and popular with families and groups
• Easy access to both ski areas
  

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, families, anyone wanting something a bit different

What Kind of Traveller Are You? (And Where You’ll Be Happiest)

Each village in Courchevel offers something unique — and knowing which one fits your travel style can completely change the feel of your trip.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family ski week, or a relaxed group holiday, here’s how to match your vibe to the right village:

Luxury Seekers → Courchevel 1850

If your idea of a ski holiday includes champagne bars, designer shopping, and slope-side spas, this is your place. Courchevel 1850 delivers the full 5-star experience — on and off the mountain. You’re paying for the prestige, but it delivers in exclusivity, service, and style.

Think: Chauffeured arrival, gourmet tasting menus, private ski instructors.

Families with Kids → Courchevel 1550 or La Tania

Both offer a calmer atmosphere, great ski school access, and affordable accommodation — without sacrificing snow quality. 1550 has direct gondola access to 1850, while La Tania feels like a peaceful alpine retreat with a family-first layout and pedestrian-friendly streets.

Bonus: These areas are quieter in the evenings — ideal for early nights and easy mornings.

Intermediate Skiers or Groups → Courchevel 1650 (Moriond)

Looking for spacious runs, lively après-ski, and fewer crowds than 1850? 1650 hits the sweet spot. It’s sociable without being overwhelming, and the wide, rolling terrain is great for confident blue and red run skiers.

Tip: It’s also where you’ll often find the best deals on accommodation in high season.

Couples or Off-the-Beaten-Path Fans → Le Praz

If you’re after quiet evenings, romantic chalets, and a dose of authenticity, Le Praz delivers. This low-altitude village is rich in character, perfect for couples or returning skiers who want something more atmospheric and less commercial.

Added bonus: Beautiful forest runs and easy gondola access to higher slopes.

Getting to Your Village from Geneva Airport

Once you’ve picked your perfect Courchevel base, the next question is: how do you get there? Geneva Airport is one of the most common arrival points for skiers heading to Courchevel — but travel time, comfort, and convenience can vary depending on where you’re staying.

Here’s what you need to know.

How Long Is the Transfer from Geneva?

• Geneva to Courchevel takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on weather, traffic, and your exact village.
• Villages at higher altitudes (like 1850) can take longer to reach, especially after fresh snowfall.
• Weekend arrivals (especially Saturdays) may involve extra delays due to ski traffic.
  

Private Transfers: Door-to-Door, No Surprises

With a private transfer, your driver meets you at the arrivals hall, helps with your luggage and ski gear, and takes you directly to your chalet or hotel — even if it’s tucked away in 1850 or Le Praz.

This is the most comfortable, time-efficient option, especially for:

• Families with kids or lots of bags
• Groups with tight schedules or early/late flights
• Travellers staying in smaller or higher villages
  

3 Valley Transfers provides tailored, door-to-door service with experienced winter drivers and room for all your ski gear — no bus juggling or dragging bags through snow.

Shared Shuttles: Budget-Friendly, But With Limits

Shared transfers can be a good deal if your schedule lines up. But:

• You may need to wait at the airport for other passengers
• Not all Courchevel villages are served — drop-offs are often limited to central points (e.g., 1650 or 1550)
• You may need to arrange a local taxi for the last leg of your trip
  

Best for solo travellers or budget-conscious skiers with flexible timing.

Train to Moûtiers + Taxi: Scenic, But Requires Effort

For the adventurous:

• Take the train from Geneva to Moûtiers (with a transfer in Chambéry)
• From Moûtiers, book a taxi or local shuttle to your Courchevel village
  

It’s scenic and can be cost-effective, but with gear, delays, and transfers, it’s not ideal for first-timers or families. Works best for Le Praz or 1550, which are closer to Moûtiers.

Choosing the right Courchevel village can shape your whole ski experience — whether you’re chasing powder, sipping wine fireside, or introducing your kids to the slopes.

But how you get there matters just as much. With the right transfer, you start your trip relaxed, ahead of the crowd, and ready to make the most of every day on the mountain.

Book your private transfer from Geneva to Courchevel with 3 Valley Transfers and start your ski trip the smart way — direct, comfortable, and completely stress-free.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.