After a leisurely breakfast and a coffee sipped on a balcony overlooking the peaks, it’s hard to imagine the day could pick up pace. But as Savoyard cuisine has top priority, lunch is taken on a terrace with a view of the mountains, in a quiet little square somewhere in the valley. Here, the fondue takes its time to melt and the tartiflette is shared out gradually; these specialities encourage you to savour every moment of the meal.

From Les Allues to Mottaret, there’s no shortage of restaurant terraces, each with its own view and local produce – all that remains is to discover your new favourite places.

It’s still dark when you strap on your crampons, while your guide ropes you together. Higher up on the glacier, other lights are already moving through the darkness, and you set off to meet them, off the paths you’d always stopped at until now. Day breaks over the glacier, and that feeling every mountaineer knows takes hold of you too: feeling tiny, and yet exactly where you belong.

From Méribel, the Vanoise national park opens the door to these views of glaciers and peaks rising above 3,000m. To help you prepare for your first glacier trekking experience, we spoke with Alain Petex, a guide in Méribel for 25 years. Here’s how a day out with the Méribel mountain guides office actually unfolds.

What are the physical requirements for glacier trekking? How does one go about choosing an objective that is adapted to one’s level?

For the routes we have just mentioned, you need to be able to climb at least 800 metres without being exhausted. By way of comparison, the hike from the Lac de Tueda to the Refuge du Saut, a classic in the summer in Méribel, requires an increase in altitude of 450 metres. However, for day-long initiations, it is possible to choose an itinerary with only 300m of ascent to reach the glacier. The destination of the day is always chosen by discussion. We ask a number of questions about your experience in the high mountains, your physical level, your potential fear of heights… Using these elements, we then propose options.

Is it necessary to have already climbed or done via ferrata to do glacier trekking?

No, as the name suggests, it’s only glacier walking. But there are other mountaineering routes in the Vanoise that require a little mountaineering or climbing experience to be done. It’s all about finding the right mountaineering trip for you and your level.

What equipment is provided on the day and what should one bring?

You have to rent the equipment in the rental shops in Meribel, i.e. crampons, shoes suitable for crampons, a harness, a straight ice axe, a helmet and a pair of walking sticks… and obviously you have to have the necessary equipment for the cold and the sun, which is more intense at 3,000m: category 4 glasses, gloves, a down jacket and a windproof jacket…

Finally, there is the equipment provided by the guide’s office: the rope and the safety equipment on the glacier, such as ice pins. How to use this equipment is obviously explained afterwards by the guide on the day.

20 years as a guide in Méribel, you must have had some great adventures. Can you share with us an outstanding memory that you have experienced in the 3 Valleys?

I remember once I took a group to Polset Dome. There was an 18 year old boy there. I saw him again 20 years later and he was still very happy about the trip. That day he had discovered something and continued to climb thereafter. Being introduced to mountaineering finally opens up the high mountains: you discover life in a refuge, you walk roped up with the day gradually breaking over the summits and glaciers, you see crevasses… In short, it’s a unique experience that leaves its mark, like the young man who spoke about it with stars in his eyes 20 years later.

The Méribel guide’s office offers other options beyond glacier trekking, what other activities are available in Méribel?

In the summer, the guide’s office also offers via ferrata, canyoning, climbing, mountaineering and themed hikes. We accompany both sporty people who want to discover or progress in a mountain sport, as well as families and less athletic individuals who want to discover nature and the mountains.

Wrong. You can certainly improve on your own by starting on the easiest runs, then moving on (after a fair few falls) to more challenging terrain. With time, motivation and a good dose of resilience, it’s entirely possible to reach a top level as a self-taught skier.

But if the aim is to move on to red and black runs without ending up off-piste straight away, Méribel’s qualified instructors make all the difference. Getting the right reflexes from the outset not only saves a considerable amount of time, but also means you’ll progress without picking up bad habits that’ll follow you on every run. And, between you and me, being coached by someone who knows every bend in the Bike Park like the back of their hand is still the best shortcut to the thrills you’ve come here for.

So, are you convinced?

At the end of the day, downhill is all about thrills and freedom, and everyone experiences them in their own way. Some will need the G Force to really get their adrenaline pumping, whilst others will be happy with a simple ride on an e-MTB along the ridges. The Méribel Bike Park was designed precisely for this purpose: to cater for everyone, from families to experienced riders, so next time, forget the excuses and come and see for yourself!

Those first few days in Méribel have that special charm of anticipation and discovery, as you find your feet, explore and settle into a rhythm. For families seeking adventure, start with a hike through the villages in the valley – just to get your legs warmed up and soak up the Savoyard heritage before tackling more challenging routes. The next day, a hike isn’t enough for the children any longer, so a visit to the Bike Park is a must. A leisurely family exploration of the resort on the green and blue runs – there’s still plenty of the week left.

On the other side of the resort, the atmosphere is completely different. Yoga by the shores of Lake Tuéda in the morning silence, with the peaks reflected in the water and your breath finally settling. Meanwhile, the children are discovering “Les P’tits Aventuriers”, supervised by enthusiastic instructors and with a never-ending stream of activities – it’s pure joy. A great way to start the week that sets the tone for the rest of the holiday.

Our sporty family are off and running, kicking things off with the Dent de Burgin via ferrata – quite simply the highest in France – to get the adrenaline pumping. Straight after, they head for the Col de la Loze on e-MTBs, with the 3 Vallées stretching as far as the eye can see from the summit.
On Friday morning, up bright and early with one mission in mind: the Gébroulaz Glacier, an organised group with a mountain guide. Up there, the rock gives way to ice and the rugged high-mountain panoramas unfold before them. What a panorama, what luck …but no, views like this have to be earned!

Happiness looks different for everyone

The family, seeking a more relaxing pace has also found its balance. The golf driving range in the sunshine, the children in the play area, and that drink on the terrace that naturally becomes the order of the day as the morning draws to a close. On Friday, with sandwiches tucked away in their bags, it’s off to the ski lifts! By the time they’ve reached the top, the scenery has changed, the air is crisper and the picnic takes on a whole new dimension. In the afternoon, the little ones dash off to meet the pony whilst the parents slip away discreetly to unwind at the spa.

That evening, as they round the corner onto Jack’s famous terrace, the two families bump into each other quite by chance. One is returning, exhausted yet happy after their day in the mountains; the other, who’ve been sitting there for a while with a drink in hand, have never felt so rejuvenated.

A word from our dog experts to ensure your outings go as smoothly as possible, for both your dog and the environment:

– Dogs must be kept on a lead on most trails, especially when approaching mountain pastures where herds are grazing. If you come across a Patou, the correct approach is the same as when walking alone: avoid sudden movements, and move away calmly whilst keeping your dog firmly on the lead.

– Don’t forget to bring water; dogs can become dehydrated quickly when exerting themselves, especially in the height of summer. A water bottle or a collapsible water bag is more than enough.

– As for wildlife, the temptation to chase a marmot or a fox can be overwhelming, particularly if the dog is off the lead, but this remains prohibited and stressful for the animals. Once again, keeping the dog on a lead is the best solution.

And on the way back, there’s one little thing you shouldn’t forget: check the paw pads, as stony paths can be tough on them, especially over long distances.

Although Méribel is very dog-friendly, the heart of the Vanoise National Park is off-limits to dogs, even when kept on a lead, with the exception of assistance dogs accompanied by official documentation. This is, of course, not because of the dogs themselves, but to preserve the fragile balance of the mountain ecosystem.

In the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, dogs are allowed on a lead, but only as far as the Plan refuge; beyond that, towards the Vallon du Fruit or the Refuge du Saut, you will need to leave your four-legged friend at home.

When it comes to swimming, a word of caution: mountain lakes, and Lake Tuéda in particular, are not suitable for dogs to swim in. Better to bring a water bottle than to let your dog cool off in these natural water sources.
For everything else, there’s no reason to leave them at home!

In early July, Méribel comes to life and the summer season gently gets underway. The trails are still relatively quiet, but the resort is already buzzing. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the activities and restaurants without worrying about fully booked slots. All the activities are already open, and something that isn’t said often enough: early July is often the best time to enjoy the mountains.

By mid-July, things pick up a pace as the lively, festive valley enters its peak season. From the Méribel Trail and the Hybrid Games to Zen Altitude, events punctuate the weeks. Take note that guided activities are in demand and the terraces are popular. But whether you’re a family or a group of friends, this is the perfect time for those who want to experience Méribel at its most vibrant.

By late August, the pace slows down and the mountains catch their breath. There are still enough people around to keep village life going, the terraces remain lively, and you can enjoy your favourite activities. All this, and a more leisurely pace than in the preceding weeks. Plus there’s that late-summer light on the peaks; golden, soft, a little melancholic. Very often, it’s the best time to not want to leave.

Among the finest experiences Méribel has to offer, the excursions organised by the guides’ office are in a league of their own. Glacier hikes on the Gébroulaz Glacier, themed nature trails, and introductory high-mountain courses – these excursions require a bit of planning, but they are well worth the effort.

Another way to take in breathtaking views is to take off from Tougnète or the Dent du Burgin in a paraglider. This is a unique experience. Morning flights, in the cool air above the still-sleeping valley, are among the most memorable moments you can experience here.

A round of golf also warrants planning ahead, especially in August. Perched at an altitude of 1,500 metres and stretching over more than 35 hectares, Méribel’s 18-hole course is one of the most spectacular in the Alps, and therefore highly sought-after.

The same applies to fine dining: the best restaurants are worth the effort. It’s easy to find a wealth of quality restaurants in Méribel that don’t require a booking, but for a special event, it’s best to book in advance. Whether it’s a gourmet restaurant with breathtaking views of the peaks or lunch on a terrace facing the ridges, these are the sort of places you don’t leave to chance.

Everything else… and that’s already plenty! Enjoy marked walking trails, pedestrian ski lifts, the swimming pool, the ice rink, the tennis courts and plenty of other activities without needing to book, just as you please. That’s precisely where the balance of your holiday lies: letting yourself go, without overthinking it.

And that’s exactly what the “Pass Explorateur” covers, with over 20 activities available at no extra cost, so you can plan your days however you like. Find out more about this essential travel companion: Pass Explorateur Méribel.

In the evening, as the last rays of the setting sun fade away, Méribel comes to life. Live music is part of the valley’s DNA; in the early evening, the first notes ring out on the terraces of the many bars such as the Rambler in Mottaret, the perfect spot to unwind after a great day in the mountains.  On the programme: rock bands, original artists and folk musicians.

Méribel Village has long been a favourite haunt of British visitors. The terraces come to life from late afternoon onwards, accents mingle and the atmosphere naturally takes on that laid-back feel you don’t find everywhere. La Terrasse du Village epitomises this, always bustling, often in full party mode, with an alpine village atmosphere that makes you want to stay. In the same vein, Jack’s at La Chaudanne is a must-visit in Méribel. Live music from on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons on a large sunny terrace, ideal for kicking off the evening or letting it drift on without even realising it.

• The Tourist Office is your first port of call: It’s not just for brochures. The team can guide and advise you, and knows the best times to visit and places that aren’t necessarily in the guidebooks. A must-visit from day one.
• The Meribus: Free shuttle buses connecting all neighbourhoods, at any time of day. Once you know they exist, you won’t touch the steering wheel again. (Méribus : Méribel’s bus station / info, hours etc).
• The Pass Explorateur: Many families arrive without realising it exists. €69 for 3 days or €99 for 6 days, with over 20 activities included. One of the best value-for-money experiences in the valley, especially for children.
• Book early for guided activities: Guide office, paragliding, supervised outings. In July and August, slots fill up fast. Try to book at the start of the week, not the day before.

The alpine flora you’ll see around Méribel is exceptionally rich. On the valley’s paths and in the Vanoise National Park, you’ll come across iconic plants such as edelweiss, Turk’s cap lilies and snow gentian, but also treasures found almost nowhere else: the Mont Cenis pansy, endemic to the Vanoise mountain pastures, or the Alpine columbine with its elegant star-shaped blue flowers.

There are around 1,700 plant species in the massif, representing a third of France’s flora on less than 0.5% of its territory. This diversity is protected, and the rule is simple: admire or photograph, but do not pick.

We know the temptation to venture off the marked trails and explore areas where no one has trodden. But repeated off-trail walking causes erosion that can take decades to repair. The mountain pastures bordering the trails are the resource of local farmers; trampling the vegetation has an effect on their livelihood.

You arrive in the valley, the sky is a pristine blue, there’s not a cloud in sight, only a golden eagle soaring in the distance. It’s hard to imagine that this scene could change in minutes. It is strongly recommended that you check a specialist mountain weather app before setting off (and keep an eye on it during your outing!)

When it comes to kit, certain items are essential, such as walking boots, high-factor sun cream, a lightweight jacket in your rucksack and, of course, plenty of water. If you wish to explore the high mountains or undertake more technically-challenging outings, the Méribel mountain guides are your best option. Thanks to their knowledge of the terrain, they can read the weather better than any app and will take you to the most beautiful spots in safety.

Good news for lovers of sleeping under the stars: bivouacking is permitted in the heart of the Park! However, you cannot pitch your tent just anywhere; bivouacking is only permitted in the immediate vicinity of certain mountain refuges during the summer months. Pre-booking is compulsory and we advise you not to leave it too late: in high season, places go fast.

If the weather decides to turn bad, the refuges’ dining areas welcome everyone without exception. In practical terms, a night’s bivouac at altitude offers a starry sky for a ceiling and a refuge within easy reach should you need it. We’ve seen worse camping conditions! To find the relevant refuges and plan your bivouac, the Vanoise National Park website is the go-to resource.

The “Pass Explorateur”, is your ticket to a great mountain holiday. Designed as an all-in-one package, valid for the entire duration of your stay, it gives you access to over 20 activities in the valley. Swimming pool, yoga, guided hikes, golf driving range, inflatable games and much more.

Unlimited use of the pedestrian ski lifts is also included, but an important point: this is valid only in the Méribel valley. So many experiences freely available, without having to think about the cost of each one.

What the pass really changes is your mindset. No more weighing up every outing, wondering if it’s worth it and instinctively dampening the children’s enthusiasm. And what if they fall in love with an activity and want to do it again? No problem – the pass allows you to take part in each activity as many times as you like!

Is your favourite activity not included in the pass? Don’t worry. The “Pass Explorateur” offers more than just the included activities. It also opens up a world of possibilities with a 15% discount at selected partners.

For fans of white-water activities, you’ll be able to tackle the rapids by raft or hydro-speed at a reduced price. Cycling enthusiasts will also find what they’re looking for at a number of partner rental companies offering e-MTB hire.

For families with young children who wish to explore the valley at their own pace, the “Pass Explorateur” offers the chance to hire downhill scooters and bike trailers at a lower rate.

This winter, Méribel buzzed with excitement during top-level competitions. In January, the resort hosted a stage of the Para Alpine Skiing World Cup when the world’s best athletes competed on the legendary Roc de Fer slope. A large crowd was there to support para-skier Victor Pierrel, representing Méribel.

The competition season concluded with the French Mogul Skiing Championships. Following training sessions open to the public, spectators watched the individual events, the Single Moguls, before the finale featuring the Dual Moguls and the presentation of the French Championship titles.

As every year, Méribel offered a rich and varied programme of lively evening entertainment throughout the winter. Among the highlights, the Jazz Variations festival brought January to life. The group Les Doigts de l’Homme, stars of modern gypsy jazz, combined virtuosity, creativity and infectious energy with their repertoire of acoustic and electric songs.

In February, Méribel hosted the first Paname Comedy Club Festival. Holidaymakers were treated to a series of shows never before seen in the mountains, bringing together several comedians each evening for a varied programme. The festival was notably marked by the appearance of Gad Elmaleh, this year’s special guest.

Finally, the traditional Soundclash marked the end of the winter season. French and British DJs went head-to-head in open-air battles, creating a lively party atmosphere, rounding off the winter season with music.

With its 422 hectares (1,042 acres) of meticulously maintained slopes, Méribel offers an exceptional ski playground where everyone can progress at their own pace.

The 150km (93 miles) of slopes offer varied terrain where every skier can progress at their own pace. Beginners and families will enjoy numerous blue and green runs and safe, fun zones. For experienced skiers, legendary runs such as Mauduit, Julie and Combe du Vallon offer more technical descents, all with spectacular views. In addition, the Open Park and Boardercross are perfect places for an adrenaline rush.

When you are taking a break from skiing, Méribel’s charms will become apparent. Traditional wood and stone chalets, a warm atmosphere and typical Savoyard architecture offer an escape from the everyday world. This unique atmosphere invites you to relax, bringing this first day in the heart of the 3 Vallées to a close

There are two routes that take you to this famous valley: via the summit of La Saulire or the Col de la Loze.

From the summit of La Saulire, at 2,740m, you’ll be treated to a spectacular panorama of the entire 3 Vallées. To reach this highest point in Courchevel, take the Pas du Lac 1 and Pas du Lac 2 gondola lifts from Méribel-Mottaret. From Méribel Centre, access is easy via the Saulire Express 1 and 2 gondolas. Once at the summit, the Courchevel ski area opens up before you: a succession of wide and varied runs set against magnificent scenery. Numerous options are available, depending on your preferences and ability. Blue and red runs, and of course the legendary “Grand Couloir”, one of the most challenging black runs in the world…

The Col de la Loze, at 2,304m, offers another extraordinary view of the Tarentaise Valley and the peaks of the Vanoise. From Méribel Centre, take the Rhodos 1 and Rhodos 2 gondola lifts, and then ski to the Loze chairlift. Once at the top, you can ski down towards the centre of Courchevel whichever way you like. This route provides access to the famous Eclipse piste, the longest black in the 3 Vallées, which hosted the speed events at the 2023 World Ski Championships. If you decide to

ski in the Courchevel–La Tania area, take the Folyères blue run. This quiet run winds through the fir trees and is ideal for carving without picking up too much speed.

At the end of the day, enjoy your return to Méribel. Take the Dou des Lanches chairlift back to the Col de la Loze. From there, choose your descent: the gentle blue Pic Bleu, or a thrilling descent on the black Tétras run. Both runs take you through the Altiport sector, amidst the fir trees, for a truly alpine atmosphere. A superb way to round off this day’s skiing in both the Méribel and Courchevel valleys

From the summit of La Saulire, take to the skies in a paraglider accompanied by a qualified instructor from Prosneige Parapente for an exceptional thrill. The peaks, forests and slopes of Méribel and the 3 Vallées will be laid out before your eyes during this out-of-this-world experience.

Once back on solid ground, why not try something new? Head to the cross-country ski area for a morning of cross-country skiing, walking or snowshoeing. Glide through the pine forests, breathe in the silence and the pure air and discover the mountains in a whole new way. If you are feeling adventurous, try the sport of biathlon (cross-county skiing and rifle shooting) for an activity the combines precision and excitement.

The day draws to a gentle close yet the magic continues. In the heart of Méribel, an evening at Le Clos Bernard promises a unique experience: a torchlit ascent through the snow. The lit-up faces, the flickering flames and the tranquillity of the mountains all create a magical atmosphere before you enjoy a delicious Savoyard dinner.

These are memories that will stay with you for a long time to come!

On this fourth day, head back onto the slopes to the neighbouring valleys of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville or Les Menuires.

From La Chaudanne, take the Legends chairlift and then the Cherferie. You can then enjoy a gentle descent to the welcoming slopes of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. We recommend the blue run Jérusalem, which offers a stunning panoramic view. To return towards Méribel, the Saint Martin 1 gondola lift followed by the Saint Martin Express will take you back to the Tougnète summit, where a wide choice of runs awaits you: black, red or blue, depending on your ability and preferences. Each descent offers new views of the surrounding peaks and forests, in a typically welcoming and Savoyard setting.

If you opt for Les Menuires, the Gros Tougne run takes you straight to the heart of the ski area, perfect for exploring its many, varied runs. The Chambre area offers enjoyable runs for beginners and intermediates, whilst experienced skiers will find more technical runs on the slopes of la Masse. The top of this mountain, la Pointe de la Masse, is notable for its unique views over the Alpine peaks. Head back down on the red Fred Covili run (named after the local ski champion) for a thrilling descent (NB: this run requires a reasonable level of ability).

To return to Méribel, several options are available. Take Roc 1 and then Roc 2: at the top, choose between the black run Ibex or the red run Mouflon if you want a challenging descent. If you prefer a more leisurely return, stick to the blue runs. From the top of Roc 2, the Grand Lac run followed by Pelozet takes you back towards Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Then take the Saint Martin Express

chairlift, and glide down via Les Crêtes, then Choucas and Gelinotte, to La Chaudanne in Méribel Centre. To reach Méribel-Mottaret, take the blue run Faon and branch off onto the green run Perdrix. A gentle end to a day filled with discoveries.

From the top of the Côte Brune gondola, take the blue Pluviomètre run which leads you directly to the centre of the resort. As soon as you set off, you’ll discover a vast ski area and exciting skiing. Off-piste enthusiasts may choose to hire a guide to explore the stunning Lac du Lou area. To reach the Orelle ski area, you’ll need to take the Cime Caron cable car from Val Thorens. It is from Orelle that you can access the Pointe du Bouchet, the highest point in the 3 Vallées. Don’t miss the breath-taking view of the Bouchet glacier!

The return to Méribel takes you via the 3 Vallées VT4 or VT5 lifts to the summit of Mont de la Chambre. From up here, there is a breath-taking view of the surrounding peaks and the valley which stretches as far as the eye can see. For the descent, there are two runs to choose from: the blue Lac de la Chambre is one of the longest runs in the 3 Vallées, ideal for a gentle descent with stunning views. For the more adventurous, the red Venturon run (accessible via Bruyères 2 lift) offers a more challenging experience, with thrilling bends and drops. This day rounds off your exploration of the 3 Vallées ski area, where the quality of the skiing is matched only by the splendour of the views.

For your final day in Méribel, soak up the gentle mountain atmosphere and make the most of the many activities available to you.

A stroll around the Lac Tueda will bring you into contact with the local flora and fauna in an area of exceptional, unspoiled natural beauty. The calm of the lake and the serenity of the forest are the ideal setting to bring your holiday to a peaceful close.

Do you fancy something a bit livelier? For a party atmosphere, head to La Folie Douce! Perched at 2,100m by the Saulire lift mid-station, this restaurant with its unique atmosphere is perfect for some serious fun! La Folie Douce welcomes you with its unique blend of fine food and live entertainment (open from 9am to 4.45pm in winter).

Keen hikers can also explore the valley on foot, passing through unspoilt hamlets that tell the story of the valley. Here, amongst the traditional chalets and authentic narrow lanes, you will find the true soul of the Savoy. The villages are the ideal places to wander about, before warming up by a fireside with a hot chocolate.

Finally, for those looking for one last bit of fun on the slopes, Méribel’s toboggan runs are the perfect playground! Whether you’re looking to spend time with family or friends, and want a gentle ride or maximum thrills, Méribel offers safe areas for everyone.

In this way, you can spend your final day in Méribel at your own pace, relaxing and enjoying discoveries, fun and laughter, leaving you with another unforgettable memory of your week in the 3 Vallées.

Méribel offers a range of exceptional accommodation that combines comfort, well-being and immersion in the Alps. Several hotels offer luxury spas, and some residences pamper their guests with a relaxation area including indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and gym. These facilities are perfect for those who want to enjoy a stay in a studio or furnished apartment without compromising on comfort.

How about a truly unique experience? Le Refuge de la Traie invites you to enjoy an out-of-the-ordinary stay in the heart of an unspoiled natural site. Accessible only on foot, this luxury chalet with authentic Savoyard charm offers a rare and memorable break. Here, exceptional service, tranquillity and nature come together high in the Alps.