04/09/2025
If you’re heading to the 3 Valleys, it’s hard to beat Méribel as your base. It’s right in the middle of the world’s biggest ski area, so you can be carving down runs in Courchevel in the morning, lunching in Val Thorens, and still be back for après in Méribel without feeling like you’ve spent the whole day on lifts.
Central Location, Easy Access
One of the biggest perks of staying in Méribel is how quick it is to get anywhere. Hop on the Saulire Express or Tougnète first thing and you’re at the top in minutes. From there, you can spend the morning cruising some of Méribel’s best runs, or point your skis towards Courchevel or Val Thorens and be exploring a whole new valley before lunchtime.
Runs for Every Kind of Skier
Whether you’re finding your feet or chasing steeps, Méribel’s got it covered. The Altiport area is a dream for beginners — wide, gentle slopes tucked away from the main traffic. Intermediates can cruise down long blues like Lapin or Biche, while more advanced skiers can hit the couloirs off Saulire or head over to Mont Vallon for some epic off-piste when conditions are right. Being in the middle also means you can follow the sun and find the best snow as the day goes on.
Stays That Suit Any Budget
Méribel has a reputation for being pricey — and it’s true, it’s not the cheapest spot in the Alps. But there are still some hidden gems if you know where to look. You’ll find everything from swish chalets with hot tubs, saunas, and chefs, to good-value apartments and no-frills chalets where you can cook your own meals. Mottaret is great for ski-in/ski-out convenience, while Méribel Village offers a quieter vibe with easier prices. Speak to our team to uncover hidden gems and get our best tips on keeping your Méribel holiday great value.
Après That’s Hard to Beat
When the lifts close, Méribel comes alive. You’ve probably heard of La Folie Douce — it’s as loud and wild as the stories suggest. For something less well-known, grab a pint at the Rond Point and catch the live music on the terrace. There are also cosy wine bars and pubs where you can warm up with a vin chaud and watch the snow fall.
Where to Eat
On the mountain, Le Clos Bernard is a gem hidden in the trees — think log fire, hearty food, and a great wine list. La Fruitière is another favourite for its big sunny terrace and Savoyard classics. Down in town, you can go casual with pizza or push the boat out at L’Ekrin, Méribel’s Michelin-star spot.
Family-Friendly Without Being Boring
If you’re bringing the kids, Méribel makes life easy. The ski schools are excellent (and many have English-speaking instructors), the beginner slopes are safe, and there’s loads to do off the hill — ice skating, bowling, swimming, even husky sledding. Many hotels and chalets also offer kids’ clubs so adults can get some proper skiing in.
When to Go
January and February mean reliable snow and quieter pistes. March is ideal if you want longer days and sunnier lunches. April’s all about spring skiing — soft snow in the afternoon and t-shirt weather on the terraces. Mid-March is a sweet spot if you want the best of both worlds.
Getting Here
Geneva, Lyon, and Chambéry are the main airports, and all have transfers running to resort. If you’d rather skip the long road journey, take the train to Moutiers and it’s just a short bus or taxi ride up. Once you’re here, the free buses make it easy to get between different parts of the valley.