Meribel, Les 3 Vallees
Meribel, Les 3 Vallees
About Meribel, Les 3 Vallees
Right in the middle of the Three Valleys, it is difficult to be bored in a fortnight at Meribel. Fans of Courchevel and Val-Thorens sniff at Méribel's local slopes, but since Mont Vallon and the top of the valley were opened up some years ago, Méribel can stand comparison on most counts!
Right in the middle of the Three Valleys, it is difficult to be bored in a fortnight at Meribel. Fans of Courchevel and Val-Thorens sniff at Méribel's local slopes, but since Mont Vallon and the top of the valley were opened up some years ago, Méribel can stand comparison on most counts!
Meribel Overview
Méribel is a world-renowned ski resort in the heart of France’s Three Valleys (Les 3 Vallées), the largest interconnected ski area on the planet. Sitting at 1,450 metres, it offers direct access to over 600km of pistes spanning Courchevel, Val Thorens, and beyond. Characterised by its charming alpine chalets and timber architecture, Méribel blends traditional French mountain style with modern luxury. Known as the “Aspen of France,” it’s a prestigious yet approachable destination, appealing to families, couples, and seasoned skiers alike. Its central location makes it a perfect base for skiing across the Three Valleys, with plenty of routes leading out each morning from this iconic hub. Fun fact: the 1992 Winter Olympics alpine events were hosted here, cementing its place in ski history.
Where to Stay in Meribel
Accommodation in Méribel ranges from ultra-luxury to cosy alpine charm. For five-star indulgence, Le Kaila offers exceptional service, large rooms, ski-in ski-out access, and a ski valet who’ll know your name by day two. Le Coucou Méribel, perched slopeside, blends modern design with alpine warmth, boasting a stunning indoor-outdoor pool and on-site dining at the famous Beefbar and a fondue restaurant. For families, self-contained chalets are a popular choice, many including private chefs, drivers, and even champagne on tap. Travelling on a budget? Hotel Le Mottaret offers a lively, ski club vibe right near the slopes with easy access to Mottaret village amenities.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Méribel places you in the heart of a vast ski playground. With a mix of gentle greens in the Altiport forest, wide reds off Tougnète 2, and exciting off-piste routes, there’s something for every level. Beginners will love the tree-lined green runs near the Rhodos gondola, while intermediates can cruise the sweeping reds with stunning valley views. Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on steep couloirs or venture off-piste for powder stashes. Being centrally located, Méribel provides seamless connections to Courchevel and Val Thorens, making it easy to rack up kilometres across the Three Valleys. The sheer expanse means you’ll rarely feel crowded, even in peak season.
Getting Around Meribel
Méribel is a collection of villages spread across different elevations, from Méribel Centre to Méribel Mottaret. A free shuttle bus runs regularly throughout the resort, making it easy to get from your accommodation to the lifts, après spots, or neighbouring villages. Not all properties are ski-in ski-out, but you’re never far from a lift or bus stop. Gondolas and chairlifts link the villages and ski areas efficiently, so you can ski to lunch and return via the slopes or lift system.
Getting to Meribel
From Australia, the easiest route to Méribel is flying into Geneva or Lyon with one stopover in Asia or the Middle East. From Geneva Airport, it’s approximately a 2.5-hour transfer; from Lyon, it’s about 2 hours 45 minutes. Private transfers, shared shuttles, or train services via Moutiers station (just 30 minutes away) make the final leg easy. For a stress-free arrival, many package holidays include airport transfers direct to your accommodation.
Top Things to do in Winter
Beyond the slopes, Méribel offers plenty of winter activities. For an adrenaline rush, try the panoramic flight over the Three Valleys and Mont Blanc—truly breathtaking on a bluebird day. Sledding is another must-do, with a fun, family-friendly run in Méribel offering great sled quality and a focus on safety. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the Altiport forest for a magical afternoon, especially when combined with lunch at a hidden mountain cabin. Off-slope adventures also include ice skating, snowshoeing, and wellness spas for those après-ski wind-down moments.
Dining & Après
Après-ski in Méribel is legendary, thanks to the vibrant La Folie Douce Méribel Courchevel. The only Folie Douce accessible to non-skiers, it delivers jaw-dropping live performances twice daily—think singers, dancers, and DJs—culminating in wild afternoons dancing on tables. Families can enjoy the earlier lunch show in the VIP restaurant before things kick off. For a truly memorable dining experience, Beefbar at Le Coucou serves up premium cuts with panoramic valley views from its sun-drenched terrace. For something more rustic, ski or take a horse-drawn sledge to Clos Bernard, a hidden cabin nestled in the woods, known for hearty alpine fare and cosy ambience. Down in the village, Le 80 at La Chaudanne is perfect for classic French dishes like escargot in a lively brasserie setting.
