Intro to Off-Piste Ski Courses

Courchevel

Courchevel, part of the Three Valleys ski area, is renowned for its pristine pistes, but its off-piste opportunities are a well-kept secret. Thanks to its north-facing slopes, the snow here stays in great condition for longer, offering you incredible snow. The resort’s state-of-the-art lift system allows for a quick turnaround, so you can spend more time skiing.

Being famous for its piste skiing means the off-piste is skied less often, and fresh tracks can be found for weeks after the last snowfall. From steep couloirs around Cruex Noir to playful descents like SuperMario Land and Forktree. Courchevel has incredible terrain for even the most experienced skiers.

Accommodation in Courchevel 1650 and 1850 can be expensive, but if you want to manage costs, there are some cheaper options in Le Praz, La Tania, St Bon, and Bozel.

La Plagne

La Plagne, part of the vast Paradiski area, is a top destination for off-piste skiing. With its impressive range of terrain, dependable snow conditions, and dramatic alpine scenery, La Plagne is an excellent base for off-piste courses.

The resort features a wide variety of off-piste, from gentle powder bowls to steep couloirs, cliff drops, and hidden valleys. There’s terrain suitable for adventurous intermediates as well as seasoned freeriders. Tree skiing is a standout here too—particularly on stormy days—with well-spaced forests offering sheltered and exciting descents.

Some of the standout off-piste routes include the North Face of Bellecôte, a high alpine descent with several variations, each offering its own level of technical challenge and exposure. The Cul du Nant is another classic—an epic 2,000m vertical descent into the Nancroix Valley that demands strong skills and good conditions. For tree lines, Mont de la Guerre and the routes down from Roche de Mio toward Champagny are local favorites.

Thanks to La Plagne’s high altitude and predominantly north-facing slopes, snow reliability is excellent throughout the season. Many off-piste lines are easily accessed from the lift system, with minimal hiking, allowing for efficient lap-based exploration or full-day missions.

La Plagne offers a wide range of choices across its various villages—from self-catered apartments in Belle Plagne to high-end chalets in Plagne Centre. For convenience and lift access, we recommend staying in one of the main hubs like Plagne Centre, Belle Plagne, or Plagne Soleil. Villages like Montchavin or Champagny are charming but can involve longer lift commutes to the main off-piste areas.