Is Courchevel 1650 good for beginners?

By the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly where a beginner should ski in Courchevel 1650/Moriond, which lifts and passes to buy (and avoid), and how to progress from the free nursery slope to confidence on gentle greens and blues—without wasting a day or your budget. 

Why Courchevel 1650 (Moriond) suits first-timers

Courchevel 1650 (Moriond) is one of the best areas in the Three Valleys for beginners. It’s quieter than 1850, has wide, confidence-boosting pistes, and dedicated beginner zones right on the snow front. You’ll find a free fenced nursery slope, a great-value Mini Pass, and a logical progression up to scenic greens and blues that stay quiet even in peak weeks.

Where to make your first turns (free nursery and ZEN zones)

Mickey Drag Lift — free beginner zone

Right on the Moriond snow front, the Mickey drag lift serves a fenced-off, gentle slope that’s free to use. It’s the perfect spot for your first snowplough turns and getting used to sliding safely without crowds. Because it’s enclosed, you won’t have skiers whizzing past — a huge confidence boost.

Western Ski Park — top of the Ariondaz Gondola

Once you can link turns, hop on the Ariondaz gondola to reach the Western Ski Park. It’s a magic-carpet-equipped plateau at altitude, perfect for building rhythm on gentle gradients. The area is protected from through-traffic and often bathed in sunshine.

The Smart Lift Pass for day 1–2 (and what it covers)

For the early days, skip the full valley pass. The Courchevel Mini Pass gives access to everything you’ll actually use:

• Mickey drag and Petite Bosse (nursery)
• Belvédère green
• Ariondaz gondola and Petit Moriond bubble
  

It costs around €38.50/day (ages 5–75) — a smart way to save money while you’re still learning. Check the official Courchevel Mini Pass page for the latest price and coverage.

A simple 3-day progression plan

Day 1: Snow-Front Confidence

Stay on Mickey’s fenced slope to master snowploughs and simple turns. If you’re ready, take the Ariondaz gondola up to the Western Ski Park for magic-carpet laps.

Day 2: Step Up to Belvédère

Courchevel’s classic beginner run. It’s wide, forgiving, and flows gently back to resort. If that feels good, add the Petite Bosse or Indiens blues for variety.

Day 3: Explore the Gentle Blues Above Moriond

The rolling blues above 1650 are quieter than those near 1850. They’re perfect for building confidence before upgrading to a Courchevel Valley pass and venturing further afield.

Best Gentle Runs to Build Confidence

• Belvédère (Green): Smooth, scenic, and ideal for linking turns all the way to the village.
• Indiens (Blue): A themed “Native American” family piste with fun decorations and mellow gradients.
• Petite Bosse (Green): Often Busy as it links to 1850 — great for practising parallel turns before moving on.

These runs are part of the Mini Pass network, so you can explore without spending more than you need.

Lessons that work (group vs private)

Whether you choose a group ski lesson for social motivation or a private ski lesson for faster progress, make sure your instructor knows you’re a first-timer.
New Generation Ski & Snowboard School offers small groups and friendly English-speaking instructors who know the Moriond terrain inside out — including the best times to hit the Western Ski Park before it gets busy.

Getting around (free buses and easy links)

Don’t fancy skiing home yet? Free shuttle buses connect all Courchevel villages — 1650 (Moriond), 1550, 1850, Le Praz, and La Tania. It’s easy to catch one back if you finish your ski day in another village.

Check the latest Courchevel free bus timetable for routes and frequency.

Where to refuel and meet people (beginner-friendly après)

When the lifts close, unwind at:

• Fire and Ice Terrace (Portetta Hotel): Ski-in, big outdoor terrace, and shared benches that make it easy to chat.
• Copiña Courchevel: Tapas and cocktails with a friendly bar vibe — great for solo travellers or small groups.

Seasonal Tips and When to Go

Even in school holidays, Courchevel Moriond’s blue-green sector stays calmer than 1850’s central area.

• Early season: Reliable snow on upper ZEN zones.
• Mid-winter: Great visibility and sunshine at altitude.
• Easter weeks: Quieter slopes and lively terraces — perfect for learners.
  

Look out for torchlit descents in Moriond during peak weeks (usually Wednesday nights).