Courchevel, Gateway to the Vanoise National Park

Amid alpine lakes, flower-filled pastures, and majestic peaks, the resort is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

In summer, hiking trails wind through breathtaking landscapes, offering stunning panoramas and unforgettable encounters with local wildlife and flora. In winter, visitors can explore the park's wonders through snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, or ski touring, activities that provide a complete immersion in this pristine environment.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker, a family seeking adventure, or simply looking for tranquility, Courchevel invites you to discover the wonders of the Vanoise National Park in every season.

The Vanoise National Park, the first national park established in France, invites you to discover exceptional biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Near Courchevel, visitors can explore this natural treasure through a variety of marked trails suitable for all levels. From lush alpine pastures to snow-covered peaks, every path holds surprises: curious marmots, majestic ibex, and a unique alpine flora, including the iconic edelweiss.

Nestled in the heart of the alpine meadows, mountain refuges offer an authentic and peaceful escape. From the Refuge du Grand Plan, a starting point for numerous hikes, to the Refuge de la Glière, perched above Lake Rosière, each shelter tells a story of hospitality and camaraderie. Spend the night there to soak in the mountain's silence, enjoy local cuisine, and, as night falls, marvel at a starry sky of unparalleled clarity.

For hiking enthusiasts, Courchevel and its surroundings offer over 200 km of marked trails, open from spring to autumn. From gentle walks along the Avals Valley to more challenging routes toward Lake Rosière or the ascent of Mont Jovet (2,733 m), each path concludes with a breathtaking view of the Vanoise peaks. Along the way, you might spot chamois, marmots, or wild génépi and take in the beauty of alpine pastures where Tarine cows still graze.

The Parc national de la Vanoise is a protected area under the law of 1960: a few simple but essential rules guarantee the preservation of alpine fauna, flora and ecosystems. In particular, it is forbidden to pick plants, leave marked trails or light fires in the open air. Dogs must be kept on a leash, and bivouacs are only permitted in refuges or specific areas.

To find out about all the regulations and prepare your visit with respect for this natural heritage, consult the Park regulations.

Discover the Park through its trails

With its dozens of kilometers of marked trails, the Parc national de la Vanoise is an ideal destination for hikers of all levels. From family-friendly walks to more challenging itineraries, each path reveals breathtaking panoramas and unexpected encounters with the Park's emblematic fauna: marmots, ibex or golden eagles.

For an even more rewarding experience, enlist the help of a naturalist guide. These passionate professionals will help you spot animals, understand ecosystems and better respect Park rules.

Respect and protect

Before setting off on your adventure, it's essential to know the Park's rules: stay on marked trails, don't disturb wildlife, and avoid all forms of noise or visual pollution. If you are accompanied by a professional, you can be sure that your activities will be carried out with respect, and that you will learn more about this natural jewel.

To find out more, visit the official Vanoise National Park website.

Explore the Park on snowshoes or cross-country skis

When winter blankets the peaks and valleys in a thick blanket of white, the Vanoise National Park becomes a haven for Nordic enthusiasts. Snowshoeing takes you gently through immaculate landscapes, into the heart of snow-covered forests, where you can observe the tracks of chamois and hares.

For the more adventurous, ski touring offers total immersion in this unspoilt natural environment. With itineraries to suit all levels, this is the ideal way to discover the Alpine peaks while respecting the environment.

As the gateway to the Vanoise National Park, Courchevel offers privileged access to one of the Alps' natural gems. In summer and winter alike, it's a place where nature reveals its wonders and where every visitor can reconnect with what's essential. Whether you're an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast or simply in search of serenity, the Park invites you to enjoy a unique, environmentally-friendly experience.