Meribel station: ski area, activities
Méribel uncovered: The Resort and Its Surroundings
When Colonel Lindsay discovered the upper Doron des Allues valley in the 1930s, he found the perfect combination of altitude, pastures, forests and high mountains reminiscent of his native Scotland. He had finally found the ideal alternative to the German and Austrian ski resorts, which at the time were less accessible.
Captivated by this untouched and remote territory, he established the first ski lift, Les Grangettes, in the area known as Méribel. It is said that the name comes from the Latin "mirare", meaning "viewpoint". Fittingly, the name also echoes the English word "merry" (joyful) and the French adjective "belle" (beautiful).
Méribel Centre and Méribel Village
Méribel Centre is the vibrant heart of the Méribel Valley. At around 1,450 meters in altitude, this lively center perfectly blends traditional Alpine charm with modern amenities. The wooden and stone chalets and buildings follow the typical Savoyard architectural style, creating a warm and authentic atmosphere.
Méribel Centre is bustling with shops, restaurants, bars and clubs, offering a lively and welcoming nightlife. Skiers and snowboarders can easily access the slopes thanks to multiple ski lifts departing directly from the center. In summer, Méribel Centre is an ideal base for hikers, cyclists and nature lovers. It is also a family-friendly destination, featuring ski schools, beginner-friendly slopes and various activities for children.
Located slightly lower, at around 1,400 meters, Méribel Village is a haven of peace, perfect for those seeking a more intimate and traditional atmosphere. This charming little hamlet retains its authentic character, with wooden Savoyard chalets and residences nestled in preserved landscapes.
Méribel Village is known for its tranquility, friendly atmosphere and family-oriented spirit. At its heart, a small square with an artisan bakery, a restaurant, and a chapel recreates the charm of a traditional Alpine village. Though quieter than Méribel Centre, Méribel Village offers direct access to the slopes via the Golf ski lift, quickly connecting skiers to the vast 3 Vallées ski area. In summer, it is a perfect starting point for scenic hikes and cycling adventures in a picturesque setting.
Altitude and Panoramas of Méribel
Let the magic of the Méribel elevate your corporate retreat in the Alps as you explore the ski domain which stretches from 1,100 meters up to 2,952 meters at the summit of Mont Vallon. The ski lifts also provide access to neighboring peaks, such as La Saulire (2,738 meters), which offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Accommodation in Méribel comes with a choice of different altitudes. The authentic village of Les Allues, located at 1,100 meters, is the starting point for the Olympe gondola, which leads up to Méribel Centre (1,450 meters). Méribel Village is situated at the same altitude, while Méribel Mottaret, perched at 1,800 meters, provides easy access to the entire 3 Vallées ski domain.
Thanks to its central location in the French Alps, Méribel offers access to peaks with stunning views of the Vanoise glaciers, the Méribel and Courchevel valleys and the Alps as a whole. Notably, the famous Col de la Loze, standing at 2,304 meters, is a legendary pass of the Tour de France, offering a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Méribel Ski Area: Trail Map & Lift Passes
Méribel Trail Map
The Alpine Ski Area
With its numerous crossover points, Méribel is the perfect gateway to the 600 km of slopes in the 3 Vallées ski area, an immense domain that includes Courchevel, La Tania, Brides-les-Bains, Méribel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens. A single ski pass allows you to seamlessly explore all three valleys. A paper trail map is available for free at the ski lift ticket offices.
From the very first runs, the sensations are exhilarating. Beginners can start at the Tougnète summit and glide all the way down to Les Allues, 1,340 meters below, following a succession of blue slopes without having to remove their skis. On another day, from the Saulire summit down to Méribel Village, skiers can descend the exact same vertical drop in one go, also entirely on blue runs.
Additionally, the Golf and Altiport chairlifts provide direct access either to Saulire’s slopes (2,740 m) or to Col de la Loze (2,304 m), where skiers can cross over into Courchevel.
Snowparks & Fun Zones in Méribel
Beyond its extensive ski runs for all levels, Méribel also offers a variety of snowparks and freestyle areas:
At Méribel Mottaret:
AREA 43 Park (also known as the Plattières Snowpark) is designed for both beginners and pros. Spanning 7 hectares over 1,200 meters, it features a European-standard half-pipe, jumps, whoops, banked turns, and a big jump, allowing for freestyle skiing in complete safety.
At Méribel:
Moonpark offers four courses with a mix of jumps, rails, and boxes. It also includes an advanced red cross course with banked turns and obstacles.
Acticross is a fun course featuring whoops, tunnels, banked turns, and a mini slalom, designed for kids and families. Located in the Altiport area, near the green slopes and Moon Wild, Acticross is accessible from age 6—easy, safe, and fun!
Méribel’s Nordic Ski Area
Méribel boasts 33 kilometers of marked and regularly groomed cross-country ski trails, spread across two scenic sites:
Lake Tuéda, nestled in a protected natural reserve of Swiss stone pines
The Altiport forest, where the Méribel-Courchevel cross-country ski route (8 km) begins.
Méribel Ski Pass: Options & Prices
Upon arrival, it’s best to decide how much skiing you want to do. You can choose between the Méribel ski pass, giving you access to 150km of slopes with 71 runs suitable for all levels or the 3 Vallées ski pass, opening up the world’s largest ski domain with 600km of slopes, 158 ski lifts and 25 summits.
Ski passes are available in flexible durations. You can start with a 4-hour pass, opt for a full-day pass or go up to 6 days. Prices vary depending on age. Skiers under 26 years old benefit from child rates, while adults pay the standard rate with special discounts for seniors aged 64+.
Families can also take advantage of the Family Pass which allows two adults and at least one child, whether related or not, to all ski at child rates. It also includes a “6 days for the price of 5” promotion.
Skiers with disabilities and their accompanying person can also benefit from discounts ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the slopes.
The only decision left to make is where to begin your adventure: Méribel Centre or Méribel Mottaret?
Après-Ski at La Folie Douce Méribel
For those looking to extend the fun beyond the slopes, La Folie Douce Méribel is the ultimate après-ski destination. Located at 2,100 meters, near the Saulire mid-station, this lively venue offers a mix of live entertainment, dining and a vibrant party atmosphere. Every winter afternoon, guests are treated to Rock the Top, a modern cabaret-style show that blends music and performance in a unique way. Party lovers can dive into La Folie Douce’s legendary clubbing scene, while families and children wwill appreciate the variety of dining options tailored to all tastes.
For an added touch of luxury, there’s even a Barber Shop, where the gentlemen can freshen up before heading back down to the resort.
With its electrifying atmosphere and spectacular mountain setting, La Folie Douce Méribel is an après-ski experience you won’t forget!
Where to Stay in Méribel: private Rentals & Hotels
Chalet & Apartment Rentals in Méribel
Here are some charming and modern accommodations:
In Les Allues, you won’t find large residences, but rather Alpine chalets to share, such as Kawa, des Anges, Les Jumelles, Florissant and d’Eugénie.
In Méribel Village, enjoy the cozy Pierre & Vacances Les Fermes premium residence or stay at the magnificent Queen Mijane chalet (660m²) featuring 6 bedrooms, a private pool, and a grand piano.
In La Gittaz, the newly built Célénia chalets (184 to 303m²) offer a traditional Alpine design (wood & stone) along with an indoor pool and spa.
Luxury Stays with Spa in Méribel
If you are looking for a luxury chalet rental in Méribel or a high-end chalet in the Alps with a pool and jacuzzi, Homanie can arrange the perfect stay for your holiday getaway or corporate retreat in Méribel.
With Homanie, you can also enjoy exclusive après-ski experiences such as sleigh rides and wine tastings.
For a corporate retreat in the mountains, Homanie offers a fully tailored experience, including the perfect chalet, a private chef, personalized activities and complete logistical support.
Contact us to plan your stay!
The most beautiful spas can be found in some of Méribel's many 5-star hotels, such as La Kaïla, L’Hélios, Le Coucou Méribel and the M Lodge chalet complex. Among 4-star accommodations, Hotel La Chaudanne, Alpen Ruitor and Le Tremplin are well worth a visit. Also worth discovering is Le Refuge de la Traye, a charming chalet retreat accessible via snowshoes or off-piste skiing.
The Best Restaurants in Méribel
In Méribel, you can indulge in delicious cuisine at 2,345 meters altitude, with breathtaking 360° views enhancing a menu centered around grilled specialties. The local tradition also embraces aperitifs in elegant hotels, which transform into gourmet dining experiences every evening. For special occasions, Michelin-starred restaurants and bistronomic gems are easy to find.
Winter and Summer Activities in Méribel Station
Méribel Golf Course
Colonel Lindsay, a passionate golfer, designed the Méribel Golf Course, which now features 18 holes, all located at over 1,500 meters altitude. The course is open in summer from mid-June to late September.
Activities for All Seasons
The Méribel Olympic Park offers a wide range of sports and leisure activities beyond the ski slopes. It features a large ice rink, climbing wall, fitness and wellness facilities, a 25-meter swimming pool with an aquatic play area, a spa and a bowling alley, ensuring fun for all ages.
Preparing Your Stay: Weather, Access and Planning
Weather in Méribel: Tips for Each Season
Winter (December to February)
In winter, the average temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C, with frequent snowfall, sometimes supplemented by artificial snow to enhance the skiing experience. Whether it’s snowing or not, and considering the ease of reaching high altitudes, warm clothing in layers is essential. Under-layers should wick away sweat and outer clothing should be waterproof as falls are frequent! Méribel enjoys some of the best sunshine hours among the ski resorts in the Alps.
Regularly check weather reports and avalanche risks before heading onto the slopes.
Spring (March to May)
Méribel benefits from excellent snow conditions until April, extending the ski season. By May, the snow begins to gradually disappear but at higher altitudes it’s still a great time to enjoy quieter spaces. If the weather is sunny, it’s a perfect time to enjoy summer activities!
Summer (June to August)
Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Days are sunny, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. There is a plethora of outdoor activities to choose from. However, don’t forget to pack a waterproof jacket with a hood, sunglasses and sunscreen. Also, bring a water bottle and a snack as the mountain weather can change quickly and thunderstorms can be intense!
Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures gradually decrease, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The landscapes transform with autumn colors, offering a peaceful atmosphere before winter sets in.
Tourist services may be reduced during the off-season. Make sure to check the availability of activities and accommodation in advance.
How to Access Méribel Station and to Get Around
Although located in the mountains, Méribel is easily accessible, provided you plan your stay during the winter season, when transport and parking can be very busy. Be mindful of the requirement to have winter tires and/or use chains.
By Car:
From Chambéry: approximately 1hr15 (95km) via the A43, then the N90 to Moûtiers, followed by the D90 to Méribel.
From Lyon: approximately 2hr15 (185km).
From Geneva: approximately 2hrs (135km).
By Train:
The nearest train station is Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains, located just 18km from Méribel.
Direct TGV to Moûtiers in about 4hr30 from Paris.
Regular shuttles run from Moûtiers to Méribel.
Taxi or private ride: expect to pay approximately €50 to €100, depending on the season.
By Plane:
The nearest international airports are:
Chambéry (CMF): About 1hr15 by car.
Geneva (GVA): About 2hrs by car.
Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS): About 2hr15 by car.
Grenoble (GNB): About 2hrs by car.
Transferts:
Shared shuttle services (Alpski, Altibus) and taxis are available.
It’s recommended to book your transfers in advance during busy periods.
FAQ:
What is the best time to visit Méribel?
If the sight of snow-covered peaks fills you with excitement, both winter and summer are great times to experience the charm and vibrancy of Méribel. Heavy snowfall and school holidays increase the number of activities available but the villages of Méribel offer options for all audiences. Spring, starting in April, sunnier days allow you to enjoy the unique pleasure of skiing under a bright blue sky, sometimes even while sunbathing on a terrace between runs. Autumn, by contrast, is a quieter season, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a more intimate connection with the mountains, as the crowds thin and nature takes center stage.
Where can I find the best spas in Méribel?
The best spas in Méribel can be found at 5-star hotels like Le Kaïla and Le Coucou Méribel. These luxury spas offer all the amenities you'd expect, such as beautiful pools, counter-current swimming lanes, hammams, and jacuzzis. Renowned spa brands like Nuxe and Deep Nature Spa also welcome guests seeking relaxation.
What activities are available in Méribel for non-skiers?
Méribel offers a wealth of activities for non-skiers both in winter and summer. The Olympic Park, with its swimming pool, ice rink and climbing wall, offers free access and attracts many visitors. The Mission Black Forest toboggan run promises adrenaline-filled descents, perfect for teens and adventurous spirits. The Nordic Ranch, located just a short distance from the Truite slope, offers horseback riding, pony toboggan rides and skijoring - a fun combination of skiing and horse-drawn thrills. In warmer months, Méribel’s renowned golf course offers stunning alpine views and Explor Games, a geocaching-style adventure around Lake Tuéda is a popular activity throughout the year. The cultural scene is just as vibrant, with events like the Jazz Variations festival, comedy and theater performances and new films at the cinema, all held in Méribel's auditorium.