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.

Are you looking for a heart-pounding thrill that will take your breath away? La Face and Le Couloir Tournier are the places for you!

The Face starts off strong. This challenging black run, with two impressive walls right at the start, was originally a competition run that hosted the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics. Each turn requires precision and technique, but the reward is a 360° panorama and a glacial atmosphere. Lower down, the scenery changes: the contrast of pine forests and narrow passages offers variety and increases your enjoyment. And for the undaunted, you can continue on down the Gélinotte, for a vertical drop of more than 2,000 metres.

The Couloir Tournier at the top of La Saulire is reserved for extreme thrill seekers. A steep slope, technical terrain and an intimidating start: every moment on this run is a challenge. Skiing here is a rush of pure adrenaline: control and speed merge into a unique experience.

For those who love intense, challenging and spectacular skiing, these slopes will be your playground.

NB: depending on snow conditions, the Couloir Tournier may be closed if there is a risk of avalanches.

Access via the Olympic chairlift for La Face and via the Saulire Express 1 and 2 gondola lifts for Couloir Tournier.

Do you want to share your children’s first skiing experiences? The Piste des Animaux is the ideal playground for the whole family!

This very easy green slope in the Altiport sector winds through the forest and offers an enchanting and safe setting. All along the way, the life-size model animals will spark children’s curiosity, making every turn a chance to discover the 3 Vallées wildlife. Also accessible to walkers via a path running alongside the ski run, this is an unmissable trail where all ages can have fun together. This entertaining and educational piste is perfect for making first turns and is guaranteed to delight children.

Access via the Altiport chairlift or the Rhodos gondola.

There are moments when the mountains seem to wake up just for you. For this second First Track of the season, I am delighted to share this rare moment with the winners of the competition reserved for Ski Atout Prix pass holders. These privileged individuals, like me, answered the call of the peaks before dawn.

There are about forty of us, gathered at the foot of the Plattières cable car, our breath visible in the icy air of the early winter. At the top, the ski patrollers are waiting for us for a safety briefing. Around us, the snow groomers are finishing their night-time choreography, grooming the slopes for the day’s skiers. There’s no question of crossing their path: the mountains, as bountiful as they may be, demand caution and respect.

An inaugural ski run

A few warm-up turns, and we’re at the start of the brand new Côté Brune high-speed gondola lift, inaugurated just a few days ago. It’s a revolution for the ski area: faster and more comfortable, it now connects Méribel to Val Thorens, making the magic of the 3 Vallées even more palpable.

Once at the top, the view is breathtaking. The crystal-blue sky blends with the immaculate snow. The majestic 3 Vallées ski area spreads out before us, and in the distance, Mont Blanc peaks out, a surprise guest on this exceptional morning. One last briefing from the ski patrollers and it’s time to set off.

The Descent from Lac de la Chambre

We hurtle down the Lac de la Chambre slope, a white ribbon winding its way towards the Plan des Mains refuge. Every turn is an invitation to stop and admire the view. Mont Vallon, bathed in the golden light of dawn, rises up before us. We take break after break, cameras click away, smiles widen. Here, time has a different value.

A gourmet break before setting off again

When we arrive at the refuge, a sweet reward awaits us: crispy pastries, fresh juice and steaming hot drinks. There’s nothing like it to celebrate this descent and prepare for a day of skiing. Between bites, conversations flow and plans for the slopes take shape. Then, everyone sets off again, their souls already conquered by the mountain.

In Méribel, your skis give you access to the largest ski area in the world: Les 3 Vallées. Ideally located in the heart of this ski area, Méribel offers direct access to 600km of varied pistes, which are perfectly groomed and maintained to the highest standards. The modern ski lifts ensure smooth and fast travel, designed for comfort and a fluid skiing experience. In just a few descents, skiers can reach Courchevel, Val Thorens or Les Menuires, moving from one place to another without ever taking off their skis. With its wide open spaces, quality skiing and the breath-taking beauty of its snow-covered landscapes, skiing in Méribel is a feeling of absolute freedom, true to the spirit of an exceptional holiday. To enhance this experience, the resort cultivates tailor-made services: private ski or snowboard lessons, discreet guidance from experts, and carefree discovery of off-piste itineraries. Every moment is tailored to your pace and your desires.

In Méribel, the holiday experience extends far beyond the ski runs. Discover a selection of non-skiing activities designed to enhance every moment of your stay.

• Snowshoeing or ski touring excursions with expert guides offer a very special immersion into unspoilt landscapes, where you can enjoy silence and magnificent panoramas.
• For a taste of high-end excitement, a helicopter or paragliding flight reveals the mountains from a spectacular angle, suspended between the sky and the peaks.
• After your exertions, it’s time to relax: exceptional spas, tailor-made pampering treatments and well-being time allow you to wind down completely.
• As the sun sets, the atmosphere changes and gives way to a lively après-ski scene, with reserved tables at La Folie Douce, elegant bars and lively clubs.

A subtle balance between adventure, relaxation and French art de vivre makes every day in Méribel an intense and unforgettable experience.

In Méribel, the Christmas spirit is also evident in the places where you stay.

Here, accommodation is not just a roof over your head for the night, it is a real haven where you can find the warmth and soul of the mountains.

Wooden and stone chalets, residences with alpine charm, hotels close to the slopes… Authenticity reigns supreme. Each place offers its own advantages, combining Savoyard tradition with modern comfort. Then, when night falls, the facades light up, the fireplaces crackle and everything invites you to relax: wool blankets, hot drinks, views of the snow-covered rooftops. The atmosphere becomes peaceful and time slows down. A true refuge after a day on the slopes.

Whether you dream of a chalet for the whole family, a cosy flat for two or an all-inclusive holiday, Méribel offers you a timeless ‘home away from home’. Here, the accommodation is designed to allow you to experience the mountains to the full… and savour the magic of Christmas.