Since its creation out of nothing in 1946, the resort has become a world reference for winter sports while embodying the French art of living. This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate our history, the men and women who have shaped our territory, and to ambitiously project our pioneering spirit into the future.
Throughout the year 2026, join us to celebrate 80 years of passion, conviviality, and sporting excellence.
The History & DNA of the Resort: A Laboratory of Innovation
It all begins in 1946 on a virgin plateau in the Savoy Alps. Commissioned by the Department of Savoie, the urban architect Laurent Chappis designs an unprecedented "skiable city," far from traditional village resorts. On May 3, 1946, the municipal council of Saint-Bon approves the project under the initiative of Mayor Francis-Eugène Mugnier, creating the resort under the name Courchevel on November 30 of the same year.
In the 1950s, the legendary Émile Allais becomes technical director. The first instructor of the ESF, he revolutionizes the practice by importing the very first Sno-Cat (groomer) in 1959 and inventing the profession of ski patrol-rescue worker.
In 1952, the Saulire cable car is put into service. The connection with Méribel then enables the birth of the 3 Vallées, the largest ski area in the world.
Key dates
1946 : Birth ex nihilo on a virgin plateau, imagined by architect Laurent Chappis.
1959 : Émile Allais revolutionizes skiing by introducing the first groomer (Sno-Cat) and creating the profession of ski patrol-rescue worker.
3 Vallées Connection: Opening of the Saulire cable car (1952) and creation of the largest ski area in the world.
Luxury & Gastronomy: First starred restaurant since the 1970s (Le Chabichou). The resort now counts 5 palaces and 7 starred tables (13 Michelin stars).
A land of champions and major events
Courchevel has always been a cradle of talent and a stage for the greatest global sporting events:
The iconic figures: From Jean Blanc (creator of the first ski lift) to Alexis Pinturault (local child and most titled skier in the history of French skiing, crowned world champion at home in 2023), the tradition of excellence continues with the younger generation trained at the Sports Club like Steven Amiez and Marie Lamure.
The great visionary figures: Personalities such as Raymonde Fenestraz (pioneer of exceptional hospitality at Airelles) or Michel Ziegler (creator of the altiports and builder mayor of the Praz and Forum jumps) have permanently anchored the resort in history.
Major international events:
1992 : Ski jumping and Nordic combined events of the Albertville Olympics.
2023 : Co-organization of the Alpine Ski World Championships.
2026 : Return of the men's Alpine Ski World Cup on the l'Éclipse slope.
2030 : Hosted Olympic events again (alpine skiing and jumping).
The highlights of the 2026 calendar
January: Official launch of the festivities for the resort's 80th anniversary
February: Inauguration of the eco-responsible Chenus gondola.
March (14-15): Men's Alpine Ski World Cup (Downhill & Super-G on the l'Éclipse).
April: Live on the slopes.
May: Commemoration of the creation of the resort (May 3, 1946)
June: Alpine pasture ascent and Savoyard traditions.
July: Light Symphony show..
August: Ski jumping World Cup.
September: Anniversary evening with Racing Lagardère.
October: International influence in the United Kingdom.
November: Special operations on social media.
December: Grand closing party.
Looking to the Future: Modernity and Commitment
At 80, Courchevel continues to modernize without betraying its original spirit:
Responsible modernization: Renewal of ski area infrastructure integrating eco-responsible devices (such as solar power on the Chenus).
Event staging: Specific decorator for ski lifts (Saulire, Praz), anniversary passes and collaborative limited editions with French craftsmanship houses.
Renewed Lifestyle Offer: New concept stores and gastronomic addresses led by a young generation of chefs.
"Each generation has added their stone to the building, without ever betraying the original spirit."
— Jean-Yves Pachod, Mayor of Courchevel
