Portraits of two Méribel nature-lovers

The benefits of outdoor activities and sports in natural surrounding are well established. When we connect with nature, whether we’re being active or meditative, we recharge our batteries while sharing sensations and emotions, and we refocus on what really matters. In short, we do ourselves good! Méribel offers the ideal combination of nature and activities, allowing you to revitalise yourself in the heart of an exceptional environment at any time of year, thanks to varied and original activities developed by individuals passionate about the mountains.

Here are portraits of two Méribel women whose beliefs accord perfectly with their professional activities, and who create a spirit of sharing and openness to sensory experiences that delight both young and old: Magali with her “Marche ton yoga” and Anne with her “Cœur équestre”.

What experiences does your activity offer?

I structure my outings around a central theme of the five elements present in Nature and in all things (this understanding comes to me from Ayurveda, Chinese medicine and my own observations of nature).

As we wander along paths at different cadences and pause for yoga, we develop a feeling for the elements of earth, water, fire, air and space. We learn to observe ourselves, breathe, connect with our surroundings, listen and be present.

What do the mountains bring to your activity?

When we connect with the earth, through yoga, guided visualisations and breathing, we become like the mountain, stable, powerful, anchored and safe…

“At Tuéda, everything is in its natural state, it’s the jewel of Méribel and thanks to its rare species of Cembro Pines, the area is protected and preserved.”

What experiences does your activity offer?

We offer two-hour horse rides in the snow that allow you to do the tour of Lake Tuéda in the Nature Reserve. We also offer pony rides on a leading rein, pony-sledding and ski-joering either in the outdoor arena or by the river, depending on the riders’ level and the conditions. (The latter activity is not available this winter due to the lack of piste grooming).

What do the mountains bring to your activity?

We discover nature and the mountains from a different perspective and the interaction with the horses adds a special something!
In winter, the Cœur Equestre operates with seven horses and eight ponies, all of them are unshod and rustic breeds that are perfectly adapted to mountain life. They live outside in Méribel all year round: you have to bring in the hay, manage the water, clear snow and, when the snow melts, they graze near the riding centre on the ski slopes!