Nature activities in the french alps throughout summer

May 19, 2022

If the mountains are becoming more and more popular in the summer, it is because the days are never the same.

The spectacular views are not just there to be admired, they are also the setting for numerous and varied activities for all abilities. Far from crowds or noise pollution, reinvigorated by the pure air and boundless scenery, even confirmed loungers will feel the urge to get up and explore, challenging themselves to new outdoor sports or activities in Les 3 Vallées. Whether you are holidaying alone, as a couple or with the family, choosing Méribel as your holiday destination guarantees you’ll never be bored.

Nature activities for sports addicts and those of a more comtemplative nature

With more than 20% of its valley lying in the Vanoise National Park, the exceptional flora and fauna in the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, and rugged and rocky landscapes around its 3,000m peaks, Méribel has little to fear from the competition in terms of spectacular settings and sporting activities. There is something for everybody, whatever your tastes or level of fitness.

Walking paths and hiking trails

Keen hikers share the walking paths and hiking routes that can be either gentle or steep. Guide books to local walks are available, and mountain guides are here to share their passion for ecology and glaciology with you. Hikers can also take advantage of the 53,000 hectares and 500 km of trails where they can spots marmots and meet Alpine Beaufort cheese-makers, discover edible and medicinal plants or even learn the history of the valley.

Trail running country

Are you hooked on trail running? Among the many and varied trail routes, is a 24km loop with 1,700m of total ascent and descent. Part of the 2019 Méribel Trail running event, this winds along technical climbs, contour trails, narrow passages, through scree and along ridges, towards the Roc de Tougne, Roc des Trois marches, Col du Fruit, Lac de la Chambre, Borgne Lake, Plateau du Fruit, Saulire ridge and Rocher de la Loze…

Mountain biking in all its forms

The world of mountain biking is given pride of place in Méribel. The Downhill World Cup Final took place here in 2014 and the Maxiavalanche competition will again be held here this summer. In total, there are 11 downhill trails for experienced riders and novices, 10 enduro trails, 4 cross-country trails, 3 special trails designed for electric mountain bikes, and a pumptrack and fun learning area at the foot of the slopes.

Attempt le Col de La Loze

Another standard-setting trail for Méribel is le Col de la Loze, which saw the best cyclists in the world compete against each other during the queen stage of the 2020 Tour de France. This 12.5km road is exclusively reserved to road and mountain bikes, and culminates at 2,304m. It’s a unique route which begins in the forest before winding through mountain pastures to finish with a spectacular view of Mont-Blanc. And it’s not uncommon to see marmots along the route!

Mountain bikers and walkers can take advantage of special deals on lift passes. These allow you go from summit to summit around Méribel and les 3 Vallées: unlimited freedom!

Ski lifts in summer

A spectacular 18-hole mountain golf course

Méribel’s golf course lies at 1,500m, allowing you to play in the cooler air of the mountains. Covering 35 hectares, it’s regarded as spectacular, even by experienced golfers. This exceptional 18-hole, par 71 course has breath-taking views and is the perfect setting for playing or learning, as beginners are most welcome.

A mountain of summer activities for the whole family in the french alps

A prestigious resort and skiers’ paradise in winter, Méribel is also the perfect destination for all ages in summer. Combining fun experiences and fabulous landscapes, while retaining its spirit of adventure and nature, Méribel is an open-air playground for all family and children’s activities.

An adventure in the Tuéda Nature Reserve

The Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve celebrates 30 years since its creation with a unique Explor’Game. Equipped with a mobile app, the whole family can set out on a story-driven adventure, with the mission of finding the “Heart of Méribel”, the only talisman capable of saving the valley and restoring peace and balance. To succeed, you’ll have to avoid the traps set on your path and meet challenges set among the 1,200 hectares of protected natural environment…

Awaken all your senses: an unforgettable outing!

Looking for an original family outing? Try this sunset hike, when the landscape becomes quieter and the glaciers of the Vanoise, Mont-Blanc, Grande Casse and the entire Méribel Valley turn pink. Then enjoy sampling a Reblochon fondue and Savoy wines, followed by descent lit by head torches

Hike with huskies

A guaranteed success with little ones is “cani-rando”, offered by Karine and her six adorable dogs. Harness yourself up and become a dog handler for a day on this discovery walk in the Altiport forest. In small groups of six, ideally with your family, you’ll learn to develop a bond with your dog.

Horse or pony rides

Méribel offers a range of horse and pony rides (including very small ponies for young children) as part of its animal-friendly holiday approach. The Equestrian Centre also allows you to discover the resort in a different way, through treks lasting one or two hours, a day, or even two days with a night in a refuge … A tranquil, moonlit, horse ride will be one of the highlights of your family holiday.

Treetop woodland adventure course

Méribel Aventure offers fun and thrills on its 80 elements in the heart of the forest. Starting from Bois d’Arbin, five different courses with obligatory zip lines allow you to test your skills of agility, acrobatics, balance and daring. There is even a special course for the smallest children aged 3 years and above.

Off the beaten track

At La Traie, an area of great natural beauty featuring two mountain refuges, is an educational farm. Here, children can discover the authentic setting of rural traditions, meeting Valais Black Nosed sheep (known for their gentle character), dwarf goats and long-haired donkeys.

Immersion in the Vanoise National Park

With a picnic in your rucksack, set out on a hike to make the most of the long summer days and increase the likelihood of seeing local wildlife (ibex, chamois, marmots, eagles etc.) Take the path that rises towards the Vallon du Fruit before reaching the Saut Refuge. The start of this walk is through the Ramées forest, before you reach the Plagne plateau at 2000m, at the foot of the Aiguille du Fruit. This route will allow you to enjoy a beautiful diversity of landscapes and plant life.

Mountain biking for all the family

In addition to the two classic types of MTB landscape – rocky on the summits and green in the pastures, fir and broadleaf forests 2,000 meters below – this summer, the Bike Park will offer three new routes for families. These provide a gentler way of exploring the valley on more accessible routes.

All family and children's activities

A calendar of summer events in the french alps mountains

With a calendar packed with events, over the years Méribel has become an unmissable holiday destination in the 3 Valleys and the entire Alps. It’s a multi-faceted destination, both in terms of sporting activities and cultural events. In addition to the flagship events, there are the themed fortnights that give rhythm to the summer and create a succession of different atmospheres and types of visitor.

Calendar of theme fortnights