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Creation of a new three
hour 'anytime' lift pass for the Courchevel 1650 or Vallée de
Courchevel ski areas - learn
more
What about fitness levels
needed for skiing? We have the info and training advice needed to get
you into the best shape for the piste, now with warm up routines on video - read
more
Are there consequences
for the alpine environment as a result of snowsport activity? Can we
yet see any effects of climate change upon the ecostructure? - read
more
Opening in safety overnight
here's how and why - read on
Three Valleys packed with
legendery slopes and hidden treats for you to discover. Here's a sample
to get you started -
read more
Courchevel's Legendary Couloirs
Les Couloirs de la Saulire can be seen from almost anywhere in Courchevel snaking down the North Col of Saulire, thin ribbons of snow separating the ribs of rock.
They began to acquire their legendary status in 1954, when the installation of the first Saulire tram made it easier to access the ridge. The couloir running directly below the tramway has an average incline of 62°.
Before attempting them for the first time, ski down Combe de Saulire and traverse left off the piste. One passes successively on the left the exit from Sous-pylons (right under the cable car), Emile Allais (the narrowest, steepest and longest) and Grand Couloir (the widest, and generally considered the easiest).
Get a feel of the steepness and snow conditions and watch two or three groups skiing (or falling) down the couloirs. The bad news is that falls are frequent, the good news is that they seem to rarely cause injury (other than to pride).
The Couloirs can only be approached by taking the Saulire telepherique cable car. 95% of the passengers turn left on leaving the lift, the intrepid few advanced or expert skiers turn right.
The couloirs are approached via a two -three meter wide gently descending track along the ridge between Courchevel on the right and Meribel on the left. At the start of the path there is normally a blackboard giving guidance on snow conditions.
Intermediate or weak advanced skiers should not attempt these runs except with a professional guide or instructor. If in doubt you can visit the pisteurs in the first aid station on the far side of the cable car. They are usually helpful about giving advice.
Still game then read on