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Northern Alps

Meribel

Méribel-Mottaret - Mont Vallon 2952m

2434m - Méribel (Tougnète)

2426m - Méribel-Mottaret (Bouquetin)

Col de la Loze – Méribel-Courchevel 2304m

2117m - Méribel (Versant Saulire)

1750m - Méribel-Mottaret (Centre)

resort.overview.heroTitle

Brides les Bains

Brides les Bains - Départ du télécabine vers Méribel

Brides les baines - Centre Village Cam

Station de la Tania

La Tania

La Tania - Beginners Area and Pool

La Tania - Top of La Tania Gondola

OT de Courchevel

Courchevel

Courchevel - La Saulire

Courchevel - Col De La Loze

Courchevel - Le Signal

Courchevel - Bouc Blanc

Saint Martin de Belleville

Saint Martin de Belleville - Village Cam

St Martin de Belleville - Les Menuires - La Masse

St Martin de Belleville - Roc des 3 Marches -  Les Menuires

St Martin de Belleville - Les Menuires - Les Enverses

Les Menuires

Modern infrastructure with plenty of apres-ski activities

Les Menuires - La Masse

Les Menuires - La Croisette

Les Menuires - Le Clocher

Les Menuires - Les Enverses

Les Menuires - Roc des 3 Marches

Les Menuires - Saint-Martin

Station de ski de Valmorel

Valmorel

Valmorel - Col du Mottet

Valmorel - Sommet Lanchettes Cam

Valmorel - Sommet Combelouvière

Valmorel - Village Cam

Valmorel - Doucy

Champagny en Vanoise

Champagny - Village

Office de tourisme de Valmorel

Doucy

Doucy - Front de neige

Gilles Lansard / OT de Pralognan la Vanoise

Pralognan la Vanoise

Pralognan la Vanoise - Mont Bochor

Pralognan la Vanoise - Front de Neige

Meribel_Fresh Snow Carve_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_High Altitude Piste Skiing_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Apres Ski Swings_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Family Ski Day_Piste des Inuits_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Clos Bernard_Family Lunch_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Tougnete Valley des Allues View_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Olympic Express Chairlift_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Tougnete Gondola_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Tougnete 1 Gondola_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Chaudanne Aerial View_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Roc de Fer Picnic Area_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Ski Piste_Tougnete_(c): Arthur Bertdrand

Meribel_Skiers Race_Tougnete_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Telecabine de l'Olympe_Brides-les-Bains to Chaudanne_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Pas du Lac Gondola Mottaret_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Saulire Express Gondola_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Pas du Lac Gondola_(c): Alexis Brot

Meribel_Mottaret_Mont Vallon Ski Area_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Skiers on Alouette Piste_(c): Arthur Bertrand

Meribel_Village Snowy Hills Chalets_(c): Paul Besson

Meribel_Couple Hearts_(c): Paul Besson

Meribel_Sunset Gondolas_(c): Paul Besson

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Meribel (Savoie, France) is a picturesque alpine resort that seamlessly blends traditional chalet-style architecture with world-class skiing. As part of the vast Les Trois Vall&eacute;es ski area&mdash;one of the largest interconnected ski zones in the world&mdash;Meribel offers direct access to 150 km of skiable terrain. With an elevation ranging from 1,100 metres at its base to 2,952 metres at its summit, visitors benefit from 321 cm of annual snowfall and extensive snowmaking systems that guarantee excellent conditions throughout the season. Meribel is serviced by 43 lifts and boasts 72 marked pistes, varying in length, steepness, and technical difficulty.
Meribel accommodates skiers of all abilities, with approximately 11% of pistes designed for beginners, 38% for intermediate skiers, 39% for advanced levels, and 13% classified as expert runs. The resort spans 422 hectares of skiable terrain, featuring wide-open alpine slopes, meticulously maintained pistes, and well-connected lifts&mdash;including gondolas, high-speed chairlifts, and surface lifts&mdash;that ensure seamless mobility across the mountain. Families benefit from dedicated beginner zones, ski schools with English-speaking instructors, and childcare facilities, making Meribel particularly appealing for those travelling with children.
Beyond skiing, Meribel is celebrated for its welcoming alpine atmosphere, vibrant apr&egrave;s-ski scene, and extensive village amenities. The resort&rsquo;s charming wooden chalets, boutique shops, traditional French restaurants, and wellness centres provide a well-rounded winter escape. Its central position within Les Trois Vall&eacute;es makes it an ideal base for skiers looking to explore neighbouring resorts, including Courchevel and Val Thorens. With its blend of accessibility, varied terrain, and timeless alpine charm, Meribel remains a sought-after destination for skiers and winter holidaymakers.

Travelling to Meribel is straightforward, with multiple transport options available to suit different preferences and budgets. The nearest international airport is Chamb&eacute;ry, situated 102 km away, followed by Lyon-Saint Exup&eacute;ry (183 km), Geneva (135 km), and Grenoble (175 km). From these airports, visitors can opt for private transfers, hire cars, or coach services operated by providers such as Altibus, offering direct access to the resort. Those preferring to travel by rail will find the closest major station at Mo&ucirc;tiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains, located 18 km from Meribel, with regular bus and taxi services completing the final stretch to the resort.
For self-driving visitors, Meribel is accessible via the A430 motorway, leading to well-maintained mountain roads that are regularly cleared in winter. Parking facilities, both covered and open-air, are available throughout the resort. During the season, a free shuttle service connects Meribel&rsquo;s main areas and outlying villages, ensuring reliable local transport. Many visitors opt to fly into Geneva or Lyon, continuing via train to Mo&ucirc;tiers, followed by a short transfer, making it one of the most cost-effective and convenient routes to the resort.

Meribel offers a diverse range of accommodations catering to various budgets and preferences, from cosy self-catering apartments and traditional chalets to luxurious ski-in/ski-out lodges and stylish hotels with spa facilities. Families can find well-located properties near beginner-friendly pistes, while couples may prefer romantic alpine retreats with scenic mountain views. Larger groups often opt for spacious lodges equipped with modern kitchens and comfortable lounges, providing both convenience and flexibility. Many accommodations feature heated ski lockers, boot warmers, and direct lift access, while premium options offer wellness centres, fine-dining restaurants, and concierge services for an elevated experience.

Apres/Nightlife Rond Point, 73550, Meribel&nbsp; (+33(0)479-003-751). The&nbsp;Rond Point, or the Ronny as it's known, is&nbsp;the&nbsp;place to go for live music and a piste-side beer. It's famous for its raucous dancing and partying, as well as spectacular views from the sunny terrace bar at 1,600 metres. Be sure to try the staple - toffee vodka - but avoid bar queues by heading to the top-floor bar where waitresses will fetch you pitchers of beer for no extra charge. At closing time (7:30 p.m.) you can ski down from here to the Chaudanne or (if a little too wobbly) take the bus.&nbsp; Le Pub,&nbsp;Meribel Centre (+33(0)479-086-002).&nbsp;Le Pub, although rather unimaginatively named, is actually one of the liveliest bars in town and one of the most spacious. Because of its size, it offers a good choice of live music. It also offers special promotion nights and regular happy hours. You can play pool, watch any big live sporting event or just dance the night away on toffee vodka.&nbsp;There is also a nice sun terrace out the back for a relaxing apr&egrave;s-ski drink. Live music is on seven nights a week.
Restaurants
Breakfast:
Le Grand Caf&eacute; des Pistes,&nbsp;Rond Point des Pistes (+33(0)479-084-767). Bar-restaurant at the top of M&eacute;ribel. Tuck into a buffet-style mountain breakfast on the large sun terrace or in front of the open fire. Open 8-10 a.m.
Bibi Phoque Creperie,&nbsp;La Chaudanne (+33(0)479-003-093). Grab a takeaway pancake or crepe on your way to the lifts or eat on the south facing terrace. Open 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (winter only). Lunch: Le Coeur de Cristal,&nbsp;Rhodes gondola mid-station (+33(0)479-224-609). Located at the crossing point of the Rhodes and blue Marmottes run, 300 metres above the Rhodos gondola mid-station. This traditional mountain restaurant serves fresh pizzas and Savoyard specialities for lunch. Also open for dinner Thursday and Friday evenings (transport by snowcat in the evening). <a href="https://lodgeduvillage.com/" target="_blank">Lodge du Village</a>,&nbsp;Meribel Village 73550 (+33(0)479-010-355). Authentic Italian restaurant with a lively bar upstairs. Enjoy pizzas, panninis, salads and bruschetta for lunch on the large sunny terrace. Open from 10 a.m to 1 a.m. (live music in the evenings). Dinner: <a href="https://www.legrandcoeur.com/en/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Grand Coeur</a>, Chemin du Grand Coeur - 73550 Meribel (+33(0)479-086-003). This fine dining establishment, set within the four-star Grand Coeur hotel, offers an innovative take on Savoyard cuisine. Choose something from the gourmet fixed or a la carte menu, but leave room for dessert. The dessert trolley offers a dizzying choice of pastries and beautifully decorated cakes. <a href="https://www.meribel-unplugged.co.uk/resort-information/meribel-restaurants" target="_blank">Kouisena</a>, Hotel L'Eterlou, Chaudanne (+33(0)479-088-923). This rustic, intimate restaurant serves up traditional, local dishes in a real Savoyard atmosphere, complete with open-fire cooking. We recommend the entrecote steak with roasted potatoes. <a href="https://www.meribel-oree.com/" target="_blank">Or&eacute;e du Bois</a>, H&ocirc;tel L'Or&eacute;e du Bois , Route du Belv&eacute;d&egrave;re, Rond-point des Pistes (+33(0)479-085-752). This is the all-French experience. Tuck into bold, refined fare made from fresh, local produce in an elegant dining room. The wine cellar is a voyage through the vineyards of France - ask the waiter to recommend a bottle to complement your meal. <a href="https://www.meribel-unplugged.co.uk/resort-information/meribel-restaurants" target="_blank">Zig Zag</a>,&nbsp;Mottaret - Chatelet, Meribel &nbsp;(+33(0)479-004-740) is a good cheaper option, tucked away near the Platti&egrave;res lift. Open for lunch and dinner, this small, friendly restaurant serves simple, tasty dishes. The set menu changes every day, but a firm favourite is the steak and chips.

Meribel&rsquo;s ski terrain is thoughtfully laid out, ensuring a rewarding experience for all skill levels. The resort is divided into several key areas, including Meribel Centre, Meribel-Mottaret, and Meribel Village, each offering a distinct character and accessibility. Beginners benefit from gentle green and blue pistes located in lower-altitude sectors such as Altiport, where slow-ski zones and wide, forgiving slopes provide an excellent environment for learning. The resort&rsquo;s modern gondola and high-speed chairlift system ensures efficient mobility, keeping queue times minimal even in peak season.
Intermediate skiers enjoy a wealth of terrain, with blue and red pistes spread across the resort, particularly in Tougn&egrave;te and Saulire sectors. These areas feature long scenic descents, panoramic viewpoints, and connections to neighbouring resorts such as Courchevel and Les Menuires, allowing for extensive exploration without repeating runs. The resort&rsquo;s immaculately groomed pistes ensure smooth conditions, making Meribel ideal for confident skiers looking to refine their carving technique. The Roc de Fer sector, used in international competitions, adds an extra layer of challenge and prestige to the experience.
Advanced and expert skiers will find plenty of challenging terrain, including steeper red and black pistes descending from Mont Vallon, the resort&rsquo;s highest peak at 2,952 metres. The vertical drop of 1,852 metres allows for long, sustained runs, while the Combe Vallon piste provides one of Meribel&rsquo;s longest and most technical descents. Natural snowfall, combined with artificial snowmaking, ensures consistent conditions, particularly at higher elevations and on north-facing slopes, which retain snow quality well into late season.
For freestyle skiers and snowboarders, Meribel features two snowparks: DC Area 43 in Mottaret, equipped with jumps, rails, and half-pipes, and a smaller fun zone near the beginner sectors. These parks accommodate various skill levels and are meticulously maintained for safety and fluidity. Dedicated family zones with themed pistes and obstacle courses ensure younger skiers can enjoy a playful introduction to the sport.
Meribel&rsquo;s breathtaking scenery enhances the skiing experience, with stunning views of the Alps, sunlit ridgelines, and forest-lined pistes offering a scenic contrast to the high-altitude slopes. Positioned in the heart of Les Trois Vall&eacute;es, the resort provides easy access to neighbouring ski areas, ensuring a diverse and rewarding experience with a single lift pass.

If you're looking to maximise your time on the slopes, early midweek mornings&mdash;particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays&mdash;tend to be the quietest, with minimal lift queues and fresh, well-groomed pistes. The Altiport sector, while popular for beginners, also offers peaceful blue pistes through wooded terrain, which many overlook in favour of higher-altitude runs. For a more secluded lunch, Meribel Village&rsquo;s hidden terraces provide authentic local cuisine, a slower-paced atmosphere, and fewer crowds.
One of Meribel&rsquo;s most rewarding ski experiences is the descent from Mont Vallon in early afternoon, when the snow softens under the sunlight. For skiers chasing untouched snow, a post-snowfall trip to Roc de Fer offers some of the resort&rsquo;s most challenging terrain, remaining less skied until late afternoon. Locals favour these areas for intensive training and quiet skiing away from the main runs. If breathtaking scenery is your goal, Saulire summit provides some of the best panoramic views in the valley, making a pause at the top worthwhile.
For apr&egrave;s-ski, Meribel offers a mix of lively and relaxed venues. La Folie Douce in Meribel-Courchevel is the go-to spot for an energetic apr&egrave;s scene, while Le Rond Point delivers a more rustic, laid-back vibe. For something unique, the homemade tartiflette at Le Martagon is highly rated, and locals often recommend trying the toffee vodka at Lodge du Village. Off the slopes, visitors can enjoy ice skating and swimming at the Olympic Centre, while snowshoeing trails around Tu&eacute;da Nature Reserve provide a peaceful retreat for those looking to explore the mountains beyond the pistes.
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Savoie

Meribel Overview

NORTHERN ALPS / MERIBEL

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