Courchevel le Praz

Le Praz is situated at the highest point of your route, at the first level of ski resorts in Courchevel Valley. A pretty little village, typical of the Savoie region and steeped in history, it is the only village to be built on a projecting ledge and used to be one of the most active farming sites of the whole municipality. A gondola connects it to the slopes of the 3 Vallées ski area. It has retained an authentic, charming atmosphere with picturesque chalets, Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Chapel, narrow lanes and surrounding spruce forest. Rue des Beauforts is a street where a few traditional houses can still be spied as well as an old cheese dairy going by the same name. What's distinctive about the village are the Olympic ski jumps around it, which were used during the 1992 Winter Olympics. There are four in total, 25m, 60m, 90m and 120m, which makes it the best equipped ski jumping facility in France. The 120m jump is even unique in France. Major competitions are still hosted here, not least the Ski Jumping World Cup, and it is also a training centre for French and international teams. There is a permanent exhibition on display for learning more about the history of the site and this sport. You can even go up to the top of the Olympic jumps by climbing the steps. And why not treat yourself to a relaxing few hours around the laid-out banks of Le Praz natural lake, which is ideal for walks or fishing!