Imagine the scenario: you’ve just skied down the black runs of Les Trois Vallées, you take off your skis and, without leaving the peaks, you grab your racket for a game of padel facing Mont Blanc. What seemed like a crazy dream has become a reality at the beginning of 2026.
The upscale resort of Courchevel has just inaugurated two exceptional padel courts in partnership with the crocodile brand, Lacoste. An alliance between alpine luxury and sporting elegance that redefines the concept of après-ski.
Here’s everything you need to know about this new spot that’s likely to create a buzz on social media this winter.
A breathtaking location
Forget industrial warehouses on the outskirts of town. Here, padel reaches new heights. The two courts are installed at 1,800 meters altitude, right in the heart of Courchevel 1850.
The location is strategic and prestigious:
- At the foot of the slopes: The courts are located right next to the famous Émile Allais slalom stadium.
- The Surroundings: They face the very exclusive INEOS Club House, guaranteeing a premium atmosphere.
- The Panorama: Playing outdoors with an unobstructed view of the snow-capped Alpine peaks offers a visual experience worthy of a movie.
Lacoste x Courchevel: The Alliance of Chic and Sport
This project is not only sporting, but also aesthetic. By partnering with Courchevel Tourisme, Lacoste continues to solidify its image in sports lifestyle. The courts display the visual codes of the French brand, integrating perfectly into the sophisticated environment of the resort, an excellent example of the importance of design in modern padel (why blue has become the standard color on padel courts).
This is another step for padel, which asserts itself here as a “trendy” sport capable of attracting the demanding clientele of luxury resorts, just like golf or snow polo.
A “4 Seasons” Strategy for the Mountains
Why install padel at the top of a mountain? Beyond the marketing stunt, it’s a concrete response to the challenges of modern ski resorts.
Driven by the Sports Club and local authorities, this project aims to diversify the tourist offer. The goal is clear: to keep the resort alive all year round.
- In Winter: Padel becomes the ultimate après-ski activity for those who still have energy after skiing.
- In Summer: The slopes will become an essential meeting point for hikers and summer vacationers, confirming that Courchevel is not just a snow destination.
Beware of playing conditions!
For purists who will test these courts, note an important technical detail: the altitude.
At 1,800 meters, the atmospheric pressure is lower. The result? The ball flies much faster and bounces higher.
- Tactical advice: If you play up there, control your power. “Par 3s” (balls out of court) will be easier to achieve, but long faults (hitting the back glass) will also happen much faster than on flat ground!
With this installation, Courchevel and Lacoste prove that padel no longer has boundaries, neither geographical nor climatic.
And you, would you be ready to play outdoors at 0°C to enjoy such a view, or do you prefer the comfort of a heated indoor club?
