Visiting Courchevel
Here is a quick piece of local trivia. Saint-Bon-Tarentaise no longer exists as a standalone municipality. The town merged with La Perrière in 2017 to form the current commune of Courchevel. Local officials likely made the change to better align the town with the reputation of the famous Courchevel ski resort. That said, old habits die hard, and many locals still refer to Saint-Bon-Tarentaise or La Perrière as if they were separate villages.
Winter activities
Sitting at an elevation of 1,100 meters (about 3,600 feet), Courchevel is primarily a winter destination. The village offers plenty of lodging options for those looking to hit the slopes. The 3 Vallées alpine ski area is globally recognized for its 150 kilometers (93 miles) of runs, but the Nordic skiing scene is just as impressive with 66 kilometers (41 miles) of trails. Many of these paths wind through the forest, creating a quiet, snow-covered escape. You can also find opportunities for snowboarding and other mountain sports. From the hamlet of Saint-Bon-Tarentaise, a free 20-minute shuttle ride drops you right into the heart of the ski area.
Summer activities
Courchevel holds its own when the snow melts. The commune is part of the Vanoise National Park, the first national park established in France during the 1960s. This protected landscape is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plants, including ibex, marmots, foxes, chamois, and black grouse. There are 21 protected plant species here, with three considered rare. It is a prime spot for hiking, especially if you enjoy wildlife spotting. Beyond casual walks, local guides in Courchevel offer intense mountain excursions and mountaineering trips. For those who want more speed, mountain biking is a great way to explore the terrain.
Cultural heritage
Saint-Bon-Tarentaise is visually striking, with nearly 50 buildings protected for their architectural significance. This includes numerous chalets and vacation homes known for their classic design. The Saint-Bon Church, built in a baroque style, and the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Chapel in Courchevel are highlights for any visitor interested in religious architecture. Take time to wander through the village streets to find remnants of the past, such as an old distillery, a communal village oven, and a historic mill.
You can also explore the neighboring hamlets of Le Praz and Moriond, which are now all part of the unified Courchevel.
When to go
As mentioned, Saint-Bon-Tarentaise is active year-round. Summer and winter are the peak seasons, offering the most amenities and services. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the spring when the village is much more peaceful.
Getting there
Saint-Bon-Tarentaise is most easily reached by car, with a drive time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes from Lyon or 1 hour and 25 minutes from Grenoble. If you are flying in, your best bet is to land in Lyon or Geneva, take a train to the Moûtiers station, and finish the trip with a bus or shuttle to Saint-Bon-Tarentaise.
