Backcountry Skiing in Courchevel

For many skiers, the magic of the mountains begins where the groomed pistes end.

Beyond Courchevel's perfectly maintained runs lies a wilder side of the Alps… untouched powder fields, hidden valleys and spectacular landscapes that few visitors ever experience. Backcountry skiing offers the opportunity to leave the crowds behind and discover the mountains in their purest form.

From gentle off-piste descents to challenging ski touring adventures, exploring the backcountry is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Courchevel and the Three Valleys.

What is Backcountry Skiing?

Backcountry skiing combines the thrill of skiing with the adventure of exploring unmarked mountain terrain.

Unlike traditional skiing on groomed pistes, backcountry routes venture beyond marked runs and lift-served areas, taking skiers into remote alpine landscapes that remain largely untouched. The reward is complete immersion in nature, incredible views and the chance to ski fresh snow away from the busy slopes.

Nestled in the heart of Courchevel Moriond, Portetta sits on the edge of the spectacular Parc National de la Vanoise, making it the perfect base for a backcountry adventure.

Why Explore Beyond the Pistes?

While Courchevel is famous for its world-class ski area, venturing into the backcountry offers a completely different perspective on the mountains.

You'll discover quiet forests, wide-open powder fields and hidden valleys where the only sound is the snow beneath your skis. Conditions can vary from perfectly preserved powder to tree-lined descents and open alpine terrain, ensuring every outing feels unique.

It's an opportunity to experience the raw beauty of the Alps while developing new skills and exploring areas inaccessible to most visitors.

Guided Backcountry Skiing in Courchevel

A qualified mountain guide is essential for any backcountry skiing experience.

Portetta works with the expert team at Le Bureau des Guides Courchevel, whose experienced guides know the surrounding mountains intimately. Their local knowledge ensures not only your safety but also access to the best conditions and most suitable routes for your ability level.

The evening before your adventure, your guide will introduce themselves to discuss your skiing experience, review equipment requirements and plan an itinerary tailored specifically to your group.

Whether you're taking your first steps into off-piste skiing or looking for a more challenging ski touring experience, the day can be adapted to suit your ambitions.

A Day of Backcountry Skiing from Portetta

Your adventure begins at Portetta's Ski Room, where you'll meet your guide and collect any specialist equipment needed for the day.

From there, you'll set off towards one of the access points to the beautiful Les Avals Valley, one of Courchevel's most spectacular natural areas. A short ski on the pistes provides the perfect warm-up before leaving the lift system behind and entering the peaceful wilderness beyond.

Soon, the sounds of busy ski lifts and bustling pistes disappear, replaced by expansive mountain views and the quiet beauty of untouched snow.

The amount of ski touring involved can be tailored to suit your chosen route and ability level. Some skiers may spend the day enjoying flowing off-piste descents through open terrain, while more adventurous guests might set their sights on reaching the summit of Le Petit Mont Blanc.

For highly experienced skiers, there is even the opportunity to tackle the legendary couloir beneath La Portetta, the mountain peak from which the hotel takes its name.

Lunch with a View

One of the highlights of any backcountry adventure is the chance to enjoy the mountains at a slower pace.

Depending on your chosen route, lunch might be a simple picnic enjoyed on a pristine snowfield surrounded by spectacular alpine scenery. Alternatively, your guide can lead you back towards one of Courchevel's renowned mountain restaurants for a leisurely lunch with panoramic views.

Either way, it's a memorable way to experience the mountains beyond the usual ski day routine.

Return to Portetta

After an unforgettable day exploring Courchevel's hidden landscapes, return to Portetta to relax and recharge.

Swap your ski boots for slippers, unwind with a treatment at the spa, or settle in beside the fire with a well-earned drink and stories from the day's adventure.