Méribel

Part of the Three Valleys, Méribel is a lively resort in the middle of the largest linked lift network on the planet.

It’s impossible to tire of the Three Valleys, host to Europe’s highest resort, Val Thorens, and a seemingly limitless supply of sweeping groomed runs, as well as some exciting off piste terrain. Méribel is at the heart of it, and whilst the snow is superior in Courchevel and Val Thorens, Méribel’s excellent lift system can get you to the best slopes anyway.

Unlike other purpose-built French resorts, Méribel is more traditional in style. Whilst its satellite villages are less lively, the main village is always bustling, inviting a loyal fan-base back year after year. Buses connect Méribel’s different areas, but for getting to other Three Valleys resorts not on skis, a car is recommended.

Resorts facts and figures

Resort altitude 1400-1700m
Highest point 3230m
Season Dec-Apr
Ski area Three Valleys (lift passes also available just for Méribel and Méribel-Mottaret, with the option to buy a one-day Three Valleys extension)
Pistes 600km
Pistes available Beginner: 15%, Intermediate: 70%, Expert: 15%
Best for All levels of skier wil be happy here, but intermediates probably take the biggest slice of the pie.

On the mountain
Whilst it’s the lowest of the Three Valleys resorts which means its sun-facing slopes can get a little tired, Méribel’s central location is ideal for getting to the best slopes relatively quickly. The Three Valleys is huge – there’s enough skiing here to keep anyone happy for weeks – so from Méribel you can simply take your pick. Experts will enjoy steep runs, fast blacks, big moguls and some great off-piste. Some of the best off-piste should only be tackled with a guide who can help you find the best couloirs, bowls and wooded terrain. Intermediates have the whole wolrd at their feet here, with endless cruising blues and reds both into Méribel through the trees, and above the tree-line in other Three Valleys resorts. There’s an excellent green slope for beginners, although you need to take lifts to get to it. There’s also a nursery slope predominantly used by the ski school at Rond-Point.  

Mountain restaurants
There are a few options, but restaurants do tend to get a little crowded, so we suggest an early or late lunch. Alternatively, if you’re making a day of it, why not lunch in Courchevel or Val Thorens where there are more mountain restaurants available.

Non-skiing activities
There’s an Olympic Centre in Méribel where you can watch ice hockey, go swimming, try the climbing wall or just relax in the spa. For non-skiers, there’s a pedestrian lift pass for various walking trails, and makes it easy to meet people up the mountain for lunch. The village has several clothes and gift shops, too.

Après, dining and nightlife
Méribel has a heavy British sway, which means après is brilliantly lively. The Rond-Point is where it starts on the piste, serving up live music and toffee vodka, and there are plenty of bars in the village with outdoor areas that get busy at the end of the day. For something a little quieter, the Poste and the Barometer are good options. When eating out, you can choose from traditional French, Italian, steak or crepes, or even American at Scott’s. Late at night, Dicks Tea Bar is a favourite club with young Brits, open until the early hours, and Scott’s is another disco option. Méribel is all about music (live or otherwise), so if you want to dance, or simply foot-tap during après, this is a great place to go.  

Family and ski school
ESF is the largest ski school, with English-speaking instructors available. New Generation, Snow Systems and Magic Snowsports are other options, some featuring heliskiing for those so inclined. For childcare, please ask us when you call us and we can advise on the options available.

Useful links
www.meribel.net
www.les3vallees.com
www.merinet.com