Welcome to our Méribel winter guide, packed full of essential and interesting information about the resort to help make planning your trip hassle-free. This Guide to Skiing in Méribel has everything from handy on-piste and off-piste tips to exceptional dining spots, world-famous Méribel après ski experiences and more logistical travel information.
The Méribel Valley
If you’re seeking an unforgettable skiing experience, you’ve come to the right place. Nestled in the heart of Les 3 Vallées ski area, Méribel offers access to over 600 km of skiable terrain between December – April. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an advanced skier looking for a challenge, Méribel is the place to visit.
The resort’s prime location, diverse pistes, and stunning Alpine surroundings make it a top choice for skiers of all abilities. There are five main hamlets to consider staying in when visiting Méribel:
- Méribel Les Allues (1,100m) is a charming little village located down the valley that has quick and efficient access by cable car and bus to the centre of Méribel.
- Méribel Village (1,400m) is an excellent choice for families looking to stay out of the town centre but who require walking distance to a shop, the slopes and a yummy restaurant.
- Méribel Centre (1,450m) is full of fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops and is home to the Chaudanne – the central ski hub.
- Méribel Les Hauts (1,600m) is a short walk or bus ride from Méribel Centre. Set amongst nature, it’s ideal for groups who want a mix of busy town life and relaxed evenings.
- Méribel Mottaret (1,750m) is an excellent location for keen skiers as the connecting links to Val Thorens and Courchevel are quick and efficient. Situated higher up the valley, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mont Vallon at every angle.
Where to ski in Méribel
Méribels best pistes for beginners
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, don’t worry – Méribel has some excellent slopes ideally suited for beginners.
Altiport: The Altiport area offers gentle, wide runs ideal for practising those first turns. This entire ski area is dedicated to learning, with slopes designed to build confidence and hone skiing and snowboarding skills in a safe space. For total beginners with tired legs, it’s possible to ski these green runs and then take the cable car down at the end of the day. Towards the end of the week, as confidence increases, why not take a cruisey blue run through Altiport into Méribel Village to enjoy a well-deserved drink after a big day on the mountain.
Mottaret: In Mottaret Centre, two magic carpet zones for beginners are accessible by foot. Once comfortable on this terrain, beginners can take the Coombes chair lift to mid-station and enjoy a long green run down through the Yeti park, back to Mottaret centre. Those who are feeling adventurous can continue to take this green run down La Truite into Méribel centre.
The best pistes for intermediate skiers in Méribel
Chatelet: For those who have mastered the basics, head up to the top of the Chatelet above Mottaret Centre and enjoy the wide blue runs all the way down from the top. If you feel like a small freestyle challenge, pop into the park and enjoy the gentle rollers or the skier cross.
Tougnète: From Méribel centre, jump on the Legends chair and continue to the top of Tougnète 2. Enjoy the spectacular panoramic views from the top of the mountain before descending the swooping run called Faon. It’s the perfect blue run for intermediate skiers with a good gradient, some nice bends and wide pistes. It’s also a great ski run to lap, as the snow conditions here generally stay good for most of the day.
The best pistes for advanced skiers
For advanced and expert skiers – Méribel has some exhilarating options too.
Roc de Tougne: Test your skills off the Roc de Tougne ski lift. With only red and black runs down this lift, it’s a great area for advanced skiers. When the conditions are good, and there’s fresh snowfall – this is an addictive spot to get some fresh powder on the side of the piste.
Mont Vallon: For a challenging run and a fantastic view, look no further than Mont Vallon. Head up the Mont Vallon cable car and experience the incredible perspective of the mountains from the top of Mont Vallon’s 2,952m peak. Visiting on a nice weather day is recommended, as it can get quite windy at the top. The Capagnol red run links back onto a blue run halfway down, which can then be skied back to Mottaret Centre. Or why not give one of the longest runs in the valley a go – the legendary Combe Vallon ski run. It starts steep and narrow before widening, with beautiful views from top to bottom.
It can be difficult in a new ski resort to understand what specific ski areas are suited to you and your group level. Our New Generation Ski and Snowboard Instructors know the Méribel valley incredibly well. They will help you find the most appropriate terrain. Explore our ski lesson options to see what’s right for you.
The best off-piste skiing in Méribel
We have an entire blog dedicated to the best off-piste runs in Meribel.
For those who crave adventure beyond the marked ski runs, Méribel offers exceptional off-piste opportunities. From untouched powder fields to thrilling couloirs, the off-piste terrain in the surrounding area is a playground for experienced skiers and snowboarders. It’s essential to be incredibly vigilant when planning off-piste skiing, and understanding the terrain and conditions is critical. Check weather and snow conditions and consider booking one of our expert New Generation Off-Piste Guides to give your group an unforgettable off-piste experience.
Après ski in Méribel
Méribel’s après-ski scene is legendary, offering a perfect blend of lively bars. Yet, the bar that ranks top is the legendary Le Rond-Point (also known as the Ronnie). It’s a must-visit, known for providing the best live music in Les 3 Vallées. It has a spacious terrace overlooking the pistes and a giant umbrella for those weather emergencies. Being accessible by foot, bus, and piste makes the Ronnie a fab place for everyone in your group to enjoy.
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After a big day on the slopes, it’s time to celebrate your skiing achievements with the one and only La Folie Douce. It’s iconic. It’s high-energy. It’s one-of-a-kind. Daily cabaret-inspired performances and huge celebrations guarantee a memorable experience at the Folie Douce in Méribel. It’s also accessible by the Saulire cable car for those who want the iconic experience without skiing.
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Méribel Olympic Centre
If you prefer a more relaxed ambience and less champagne spray in your après ski activity, indulge in some wholesome fun at Méribel’s Olympic Centre. It has excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, an ice rink, a bowling alley with an arcade, and lots of pool tables – perfect for some post-skiing family time.
Mottaret cinema
The auditorium cinema in the centre of Méribel Mottaret is an excellent choice for a family looking for an alternative après ski relaxation. You can find their film list and opening times here and what languages the films are available in.
Night sledging in Méribel
If you’re between 10-99 years old and enjoy a unique experience, then night sledging might be for you. Hit the Méribel slopes after dark for an exhilarating adventure. Starting at the top of the resort, you’ll speed down the slopes (with a qualified instructor) on sledges. This is an experience for the memory books.
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The three best restaurants in Méribel
Méribel is a food lover’s dream. From cosy Savoyard cuisine to high-end dining, budget eateries and unique dining experiences – Méribel Centre has an option for everyone. It isn’t easy to narrow them down to just three, but these must-visit restaurants deserve a place in the front runner’s list.
Le Clos Bernard €€€€
Le Clos Bernard is an embodiment of luxury high-end alpine indulgence. The landscape transforms into a white wonderland during winter, making it the ideal backdrop for an exclusive, serene experience. It’s accessible on skis through the Altiport forest via foot or horse and carriage if you want more of a fairytale experience. The interior is rustic and elegant, with roaring fireplaces and glamourous outdoor seating with blankets for those who wish to be amongst nature. It’s a great choice for a special meal in Méribel with classic French dining and wonderful wine selections.
Address: Rte de l’Altiport, 73550 Les Allues
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Lilie €€€
The Lilie in Méribel is located in Belvédère, next to the Rond Point piste. The interior is incredibly charming and well-designed so that it’s quiet and intimate even at maximum capacity. The food is a fusion of flavours, taking inspiration from around the world. On a sunny day, the terrace is a delightful spot to enjoy your meal and watch the world go by.
Address: 101 Rte du Belvédère, 73550 Les Allues
La Fromagerie €€
As the name suggests, La Fromagerie specialises in cheese dishes, including tartiflette, raclette and fondue – local favourites. The rustic setting adds to the charm for a casual and satisfying meal. Be warned – it often smells quite strongly of cheese inside, and you may too, once you leave. It’s the place to go for a budget-friendly meal in Méribel without compromising on flavour.
Address: 315 route des glaciers, 73550 Méribel
The three best mountain restaurants in Méribel
Maya altitude €€€€
This is the place to be if you desire lunch with a view. At the top of the Tougnète lift, Maya Altitude has 360 panoramic views of Méribel and St Martin. They have an exciting menu that combines a mix of cultural delicacies, making it a fantastic option if you want something a little different to classic Savoyard dining.
Address: Maya Altitude, 73550 Les Allues
Lodge du Village €€€
Lodge du Village (LDV) is located at the bottom of the Golf chairlift in Méribel Village. It’s got a huge outdoor terrace that’s ideal on a sunny day. Their menus use locally sourced, seasonal produce and cater for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diners. It’s also worth mentioning that if you’re after a quick bite to eat on the go, they have a kid-friendly takeaway hot dog bar upstairs from the main restaurant.
Address: 21 Chem. de la Duis, 73550 Les Allues
Chez Bif €
Chez Bif is an absolute gem located in the middle of Mottaret Centre. It’s a hole-in-the-wall style dining establishment specialising in burgers, with new combinations released yearly. It’s the perfect spot to visit on a sunny day as there’s no seating, so you can take your burger and sit near the piste to watch the world go by. They also offer gluten-free options.
Address: Centre Commercial Chez Bif Mountain Burgers, 73550, Les Allues France.
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The top three hotels in Méribel
Hotel Le Kaila €€€€
Hotel Le Kaila is a luxurious five-star hotel that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its refined decor, world-class amenities, and impeccable 5* service make it the epitome of luxury in Méribel. The hotel features a lavish spa, gourmet restaurants, and 43 boutique rooms with gorgeous mountain views.
Address: 124 Rue des Jeux Olympiques, 73550 Les Allues
Hotel La Chaudanne €€€
Hotel La Chaudanne is a fabulous option for those wanting the luxury of Le Kaila but at a more affordable rate. La Chaudanne is a cosy and chic 4* hotel with 64 rooms and a fantastic spa. Just 250m to the slopes with ski-to-door access and right amongst the bustle of Méribel Centre, it’s an excellent option for families and friends.
Address: 88 Rue des Jeux Olympiques, 73550 Les Allues
Hotel Les Arolles €€
Hotel Les Arolles is a ski-in-ski-out hotel located in Méribel-Mottaret. This 3* hotel has a heated swimming pool, a sauna and a large sun terrace. The location is excellent for the price, and you’ll benefit from better snow conditions being up high in Mottaret. The friendly staff, great location and good facilities make it a popular choice among guests.
Address: Rte du Laitelet, 73550 Les Allues
The best chalet companies in Méribel
Consensio Chalets €€€€
Consensio offers a selection of opulent chalets, each designed to provide an unforgettable stay in Méribel. Their impeccable service, stunning interiors, and high-quality amenities epitomise the ultimate indulgence in Méribel. From memorable private chefs to chauffeurs, every detail is taken care of to ensure a truly unique experience for your friends and family.
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Meriski Chalets €€€
Meriski Chalets provide a range of beautiful and well-equipped catered chalets. Whether you’re travelling with friends or family, Meriski has the perfect chalet to suit your needs. Their chalets are ideal for groups of 10-15, with child-friendly rooms and facilities. Known for their friendly service, good food and charming chalets, they’re a perfect option for a big group looking for an unforgettable week away.
Ski Basics €€
Ski Basics offer a mix of catered and self-catered 6–12-bedroom chalets in Méribel. They’re a great value-for-money option with a variety of cosy and comfortable chalets. Their team is friendly and goes above and beyond to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free stay in Méribel.
The best time to visit Méribel in the winter
For fresh snow
Plan your trip between January and March to maximise your chances of enjoying fresh powder days. This period typically sees the most snowfall in Méribel, ensuring excellent slope conditions. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and embrace the magic of fresh snow.
To dodge the crowds
If you prefer a quieter skiing experience, consider visiting Méribel in early December, mid-January, mid-March or late April. These periods are outside the peak holiday season, offering quieter slopes and shorter lift queues. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of Méribel at your own pace. It is recommended to avoid Christmas, New Year, all of February and early April in Méribel if you want to avoid the crowds.
Reliable snow
Méribel boasts an excellent snow record, but if you’re seeking the most reliable conditions, aim for January through March. During these months, the base of snow is typically at its peak, ensuring optimal skiing conditions across the resort. Of course, exact weather predictions can’t be made, and it’s recommended that you keep an eye on the forecast before your trip. As a general rule, the higher up the mountain you go, the better the snow, so please consider this during your trip to Méribel.
For sunny, warmer conditions
For those who prefer milder temperatures and sun-drenched slopes, plan your visit in April. As the season progresses, the days get longer, and the sun shines brighter, creating a fantastic spring skiing atmosphere. It’s the ideal time to soak up the sun while carving through the snow.
Lift pass prices in Méribel.
Lift pass prices in Méribel vary depending on the duration and specific season time. As of the 2022-2023 season, here’s an approximate range of prices:
Adult (13-65 years):
1 day: 72,00 €
6 days: 360,00 €
Child (5-13 years):
1 day: 50,40 €
6 days: 288,00 €
Senior (65-75 years):
1 day: 64,80 €
6 days: 324,00 €
Please note that prices may be subject to change and fluctuations each year, so it’s always a good idea to check with the official Meribel lift pass provider or ski resort for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Ski hire in Méribel
When it comes to ski hire in Méribel, SkiSet is the go-to choice. They have several ski and snowboard hire shops conveniently located throughout the Méribel Valley, offering a wide range of ski and snowboard equipment for all ages and abilities. Here are a few SkiSet stores you can find in Méribel:
- SkiSet Méribel Centre
- SkiSet Méribel Village
- SkiSet Méribel Les Allues
- SkiSet Méribel Mottaret
By renting from SkiSet, you can expect professional service, quality equipment, and the convenience of multiple locations to cater to your skiing needs.
Les 3 Vallées Official App
The Les 3 Vallées App is an essential companion for your skiing adventure in Méribel. Available for both iOS and Android, this user-friendly App provides a wealth of information and features to enhance your experience. Here’s what you can expect to find in the App:
- Interactive piste map: easily navigate the Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens ski areas.
- Lift status updates: stay up to date with real-time information about the status of the lifts, including any closures or delays.
- Weather forecasts: check the weather forecast to plan your days on the slopes and ensure you’re prepared for the different weather conditions in Méribel.
- Resort information: find details about restaurants, bars, accommodations, events, and other amenities within Méribel.
- Friends and tracking: connect with friends, track your skiing statistics, and share your Méribel adventures on social media.
Don’t forget to download the Les 3 Vallées App before your trip to make the most of your time on and off the slopes.
Getting to Méribel
One of the most asked questions when planning skiing trips is about the most cost-efficient, eco-friendly and time-efficient ways to travel to a resort. To help with that, we’ve summarised the fastest, cheapest and most environmentally friendly way to travel to Méribel.
Fastest – by plane
Getting to Méribel by plane is one of the most time-efficient options available. There are four main airports to choose from: Geneva International Airport, Lyon Airport, Chambery Airport and Grenoble Airport.
Geneva and Lyon Airports are approximately 180 km – just over two hours’ drive from Méribel. Both options are quick and convenient. However, Geneva airport typically has more flight options in the winter due to increased air traffic.
Snowlinx offer Private and Shared transfers from all the major Airports, Transport Hubs and local Cities.
Méribel Airport Transfers | Snowlinx
There are public buses from the airport, but you’ll need to change at Moutiers, and they’re not cheap, so if there are a few of you, it’s often cheaper to share a transfer.
The train is the cheapest option from the airports, but again, this will involve several changes, and the trains are somewhat infrequent.
Cheapest – car sharing
If a big group of you can travel in one car, this could be your most cost-efficient and sustainable choice. You can either take the Eurostar or the Ferry to Calais. Once at Calais, it’s approximately a 9-hour and 30-minute drive to Méribel.
Explore the P&O ferry service between Dover and Calais or book the Eurotunnel directly through their website. Alternatively, if you’re travelling alone and budget is your priority, consider taking a coach to Méribel. Several coach companies provide direct services from major UK cities to the Alps.
Most environmentally friendly option – the train
To reduce your carbon footprint, consider taking the train to Méribel. You can take the Eurostar to Paris and then change to take a connecting train to Moutiers-Salins. From there, regular buses and taxis are available to transport you to the resort. We recommend pre-booking your travel from Moutiers to Méribel if possible to avoid waiting around the station. Visit the Snow Carbon website to help you choose more eco-friendly routes.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive guide to skiing in Méribel. From beginner pistes to lively après-ski, delicious dining to unique activities – this winter wonderland has something for everyone. Start planning your trip, and get ready to carve your way through the snowy slopes of Méribel.
