The 3 Valleys ski area in France incorporates the resorts of Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens plus several smaller villages such as La Tania and St Martin de Belleville. Being in the central valley, Meribel makes a perfect base to explore the neighbouring resorts. All corners of this huge ski area are easily accessible so visitors can ski in a different zone each day. That’s why a luxury chalet in Meribel makes such a good choice for your ski holiday in France.
The lift system is quick and efficient and there are plenty of snow cannons, so you can always find decent snow conditions.
Part of the Three Valleys ski area, Meribel offers over 600 km of groomed pistes, making it one of the largest ski areas in the world. The slopes cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders, with beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain available. In addition to the pistes, Meribel also has plenty of off-piste terrain for those looking to explore the backcountry. The resort’s location in the heart of the French Alps provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, adding to the overall skiing experience.
Meribel also has a lively après-ski scene. After a long day on the slopes, you can head to one of the resort’s many bars or restaurants for a drink or a meal. Meribel has a great selection of restaurants, ranging from traditional French cuisine to international dishes. The resort also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Whether you want to dance the night away or simply relax with a drink, there is something for everyone in Meribel.
The Best Time to Visit Meribel
The season normally runs from the first week of Dec to the last week of April. Please note that there may be a limited lift system in the first couple of weeks if the snow is a little late.
Getting to Meribel
Geneva and Lyon airports are approximately a 2-hour drive away. The nearest airport is Chambery, which is 1 hour and 20 minutes away.
Skiing in Meribel
With such an enormous ski area at your ski tips, there are plenty of runs for all levels of skier, from gentle wide-open cruising blues to challenging blacks and punishing moguls. There is so much to choose from, enough to keep most skiers occupied for their whole skiing career. To the left on the piste map, you have the Courchevel villages and La Tania. To the right of Meribel on the piste map, you can venture across to Val Thorens and Saint Martin-de-Belleville.
There are some very good gentle nursery slopes for beginners and children, with a multitude of excellent ski schools to choose from, which is great for families on a luxury ski holiday in Meribel. Although Meribel itself is only at an altitude of 1450m, the vast majority of runs are above 1800m, so later on in the season you’ll still have access to the very best snow!
In addition to the groomed pistes, Meribel also has some of the best off-piste skiing in Europe, with plenty of opportunities for those looking to explore the backcountry. The resort’s high altitude and north-facing slopes also mean that the snow quality off-piste is generally excellent throughout the winter season.
The lift system in Meribel is modern and efficient, providing quick and easy access to the ski runs. The resort has over 50 lifts, including gondolas, chairlifts, and drag lifts, so you can easily explore the entire ski area. We do, however, recommend spending that bit extra to buy a full Three Valleys lift pass so you can make the most of your luxury ski holiday in France. Overall, skiing in Meribel is an exhilarating experience that offers stunning views, varied terrain, and excellent snow conditions.
What to Do in Meribel
While skiing is undoubtedly the main attraction, there are plenty of non-skiing activities to enjoy in Meribel. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful resort.
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the winter wonderland that surrounds Meribel. You can join a guided tour that takes you through the forests and meadows of the resort, providing you with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Snowshoeing is also a great way to stay active and get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery.
For those looking for relaxation and pampering, Meribel has several spas and wellness centres to enjoy. These offer a range of treatments and services, including massages, saunas, and hot tubs. A spa day is the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes and rejuvenate your body and mind.
Lastly, if you’re looking for some thrills and excitement, tobogganing is a must-try activity in Meribel. The resort has a dedicated toboggan run that runs from the top of the Roc de Fer gondola to the village centre. The run is over 3 km long and provides a thrilling ride through the forest. It’s a great activity for families and groups of friends, and it’s sure to provide some unforgettable memories. Meribel also has a large ice rink in the centre of the village that’s open to the public. Skates can be rented on-site, and there are plenty of opportunities for both free skating and ice hockey.
Best Places to Eat and Drink in Meribel
Meribel is known for its fantastic restaurants and bars. The mountain and the village both offer a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual mountain huts to fine-dining restaurants.
For a delicious on-mountain lunch, head to La Fruitiere. It’s located in the heart of the ski area and offers an extensive menu of regional and international dishes. The restaurant has a sunny terrace with stunning views of the mountains, and forms part of the famous La Folie Douce making it both a delicious lunch spot and a fun après bar!
In the village, La Taverne is a must-visit for its cosy atmosphere and excellent food. It’s a traditional Savoyard restaurant serving classic dishes such as fondue and raclette, but they also have a varied menu of other dishes. The staff are friendly, and the prices are reasonable, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed dinner with friends or family.
For a more upscale dining experience, Le Grand Coeur & Spa is a great choice. The restaurant features a refined menu that blends traditional French cuisine with contemporary flavours and techniques. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring some of the best wines from the region and beyond. The elegant setting, attentive service, and delicious food make this restaurant a favourite among foodies in Meribel.
Finally, for après-ski drinks, head to Le Rond-Point (known locally as “Ronnies”). It’s an iconic Meribel institution and is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and excellent drinks. The outdoor terrace is perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying a cold beer or a hot chocolate, and the bar also serves delicious food if you’re feeling peckish.
Our Flagship Ultra-Luxury Ski Chalets in Meribel
For those who have travelled extensively around the globe, you probably hanker back to the time you were on a luxury chalet holiday in the valley of Meribel and recall, with fondness just how spectacularly beautiful it is.
Ski chalets in Meribel tend to be less expensive than the ultra-luxury ski chalets of Courchevel.
Chalet Mont Tremblant is a luxurious ski chalet located close to the heart of Meribel. The chalet features six beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. The chalet’s interior design is stylish and contemporary, with a mix of modern and traditional elements that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Chalet Mont Tremblant is its spa area, which boasts a sauna, a steam room, and a massage room. The chalet also has an outdoor hot tub and a heated infinity pool that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The chalet’s location is also ideal, with easy access to the slopes and the village centre. The chalet comes with a dedicated team of staff, including a chef, a chalet manager, and housekeeping staff, who are on hand to ensure that guests have a comfortable and memorable stay. With its luxurious amenities, prime location, and exceptional service, Chalet Mont Tremblant is a top choice for a luxury ski holiday in Meribel.
Chalet Le Grenier is a stunning ski chalet located in the exclusive Belvedere area of Meribel. The chalet’s interior design is elegant and refined, with exposed wooden beams, warm colours, and sumptuous furnishings. The expansive living and dining area has floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the mountains. The chalet also has a cinema room and a games room, as well as a spa area with a sauna, a hammam, and a massage room.
One of Chalet Le Grenier’s stand-out features is the huge stone-clad woodburning fireplace positioned in between the lounge and dining area. With your dedicated team of staff on hand, you can rest assured you’re in for a tranquil and pampered luxury ski holiday!
Self-Catered Luxury Ski Chalets in Meribel
When there is such a fantastic selection of food options in and around Meribel, it may be that a self-catered luxury holiday suits your needs better. Whether you’re looking for a chalet with a large, well-equipped kitchen to cook for yourselves, or you want all the luxury amenities without the staff, we have it all in our collection.
With its luxurious amenities, prime location, and winter wonderland surroundings, Chalet Alya is the ultimate alpine retreat for discerning travellers seeking the very best from their luxury ski holiday. Six stunning bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, the chalet can accommodate up to 12 guests in total comfort and style.
The chalet also has a state-of-the-art cinema room, a spa area with a sauna and a massage room, and an outdoor hot tub that offers stunning views of the mountains. Though breakfast is prepared for you, in the evenings you can either venture out to explore Meribel’s gastronomical delights or create your meals in the well-equipped open-plan kitchen at Chalet Alya.
Apartment Jossane is a great choice for a luxury ski holiday. Located in the Le Rond-Point area, Jossane has direct ski-in/ski-out access with the rest of the village being a short walk away. The warm, neutral tones throughout the chalet give this self-catered apartment an incredibly relaxed and inviting finish.
The kitchen is open plan with the dining room and lounge which makes it ideal for socialising with your group. The “chef” of the group certainly won’t feel isolated. Though Apartment Jossane doesn’t have its own private spa, guests do have access to Les Chalets des Pistes spa, gym and golf simulator!
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