Méribel

About Méribel

Méribel offers some of the best skiing in the French Alps and is a premiere village of the Les 3 Vallées. The resort was the proud host of the 2023 Ski World Championships and made renovations to benefit guests during the competition and with the future of the resort in mind. They replaced the previous tunnel on the Roc de Fer sector to one that is longer and wider, so competitors have their own route away from crowds. Guests will still be able to ski all the legendary terrain in that sector as well as take in the fantastic views of the French Alps.

Méribel features loads of lodging, hotels and modern accommodations, all while preserving the charm of a French mountain village. When you aren’t skiing, try their signature après experience at the 6,561 feet altitude La Folie Douce—the bar provides an unforgettable party complete with live performances from singers and musicians, club-like atmosphere and plenty of food and drinks to celebrate the end of a memorable day on the mountain.

If you’re in search of activities once the lifts stop running, you can try dog sledding, snowshoeing, nighttime sledging, ice skating and more. The nightlife in Méribel is also astounding in case the description of La Folie Douce didn’t give that away, with plenty of live music, fine dining and clubbing to be found depending on what you’re in the mood for.

How to get to Méribel

Méribel is well situated within three hours of four airports. Chambéry is the closest only about an hour away. Grenoble and Lyons are two hours away and Geneva is three hours away. 

Geneva is the best option, offering prompt and convenient bus/shuttle access. Renting a car and driving the remaining leg can be challenging with weekend traffic or inclement weather. The most preferred means of traveling from Geneva, or any of the other destinations, is by train—it’s relaxing, comfortable and quick.

Getting around

Méribel is a pedestrian-friendly destination. Walking or using the ski lifts to explore the village and the expansive Les 3 Vallées ski area is a great way to take in the sites. Enjoy the stunning scenery while you get some exercise and do your part for the environment—Méribel is best enjoyed on foot!

Skiing in Méribel

The best-known parts of the terrain at Méribel are from the areas where iconic ski competitions were held. There’s La Face, an Olympic downhill run that held the women’s events from the 1992 Albertville Games, a steep black run that stretches out allowing you to let your skis run. There’s also the Roc de Fer, the site of the 2015 World Cup Finals and the 2023 FIS World Ski Championships. This run is nearly 2.5 km long and is iconic for changes in pace, cambered sections and a steep wall at the very end. Expert skiers will be thrilled to face the challenging terrain, but for newer skiers and families there are also dedicated areas for beginners.

Beginner Skiing in Méribel, France

The beginner slopes here are perfect for building confidence and honing your skills. Start with Blanchot, a gentle, wide slope that’s ideal for first-timers. Then, glide down Forêt, a peaceful beginner run surrounded by beautiful forest scenery. La Sittelle offers friendly gradients that are great for practicing basic techniques.

Altiport is a spacious, flat area with top-notch facilities, perfect for transitioning to more complex slopes. Whether you're just beginning or looking to improve, Méribel's beginner slopes are designed to help you progress with ease. Kids especially will appreciate the themed runs in Méribel, Mottaret and Altiport, running into characters in Yeti Park or on the Animal or Frozen Trail while practicing their turns.

Family vacations in Méribel

Méribel shines as a great family vacation destination with winter activities that will suit everyone. Winter brings family-friendly skiing on Méribel’s expansive slopes, featuring beginner zones like Altiport's Piste des Inuits and Moon Wild piste.

Beyond skiing, families can dive into winter fun with dog sledding, ice skating at Parc Olympique, and the thrilling Mission Black Forest luge in Mottaret. For indoor entertainment, head to Bowling de Méribel or catch an English film at the local cinema.