Meribel lies in The Three Valleys and is one of France's most attractive ski resorts. It is one of the best ski resorts in the world and caters for skiers and snowboarders of all levels and experience, making it perfect for everyone. There are lots of things to do off the mountains too which means even when you've had a hard day on the slopes you'll still have plenty to fill your evening with!
Our guide on why Meribel is the best ski resort in France will have you booking your next holiday here in no time.
Great for all skiers and snowboarders, whatever the level.
The Three Valleys offers 375 miles of linked piste, linking to the ski resorts of Courchevel and Val Thornes. It’s one of the largest ski resorts in the world and one of the best French ski resorts. With 183 ski lifts and modern lift system, queues are virtually unknown, meaning you get to spend more time on the slopes and less time queuing to get up there. Meribel is incredibly beautiful and retains it's Alpine charm with wooden chalets and stone buildings, so on your way down the mountains you'll get to appreciate the stunning surroundings of The Three Valleys.
Because of the extensive area, there’s something for all levels.
For beginners – The Altiport is excellent for beginners and there are plenty of gentle slopes and runs to enjoy. In Mottaret, there is an enclosed beginner area where you can then move on to an almost flat green run along the valley.
For intermediates – There are few resorts that offers such extensive range of exciting runs for intermediates. There are plenty of challenging red runs perfect for the intermediate, and with so many miles to cover, you’ll have lots to choose from.
For experts – Mont du Vallon has lots to offer the experts. There are loads of off piste challenges, powder snow, glaciers and steep descents through trees. There are many runs to challenge even the most advanced skier.
For snowboarders – There is great varied terrain and Meribel is a favourite with British snowboarders. There are heaps of red runs for intermediates and gentle blue and green runs for beginners, so if snowboarding is more your thing you'll have just as many runs as the skiers.
Meribel also offers two great terrain parks. Moonpark covers 25 acres, and offers kickers, tables, rails and boxes, bio rails made of wood with beginner, intermediate and expert lines and a boardercross. You can also be filmed and then watch the results on the big screen. The second terrain park is DC Area 43, which was expanded last season. It is now 1200m long, and has many lines for different abilities, 200m of rails, a half-pipe, boardercross and air bag jump. You can also be recorded, and can then have it played back online.
Restaurants
Meribel offers over 65 restaurants and bars, so there’s plenty to suit eveyrone. The hotels often offer the tastiest meals in the best surrounings so going to some of the local hotels for food is highly recommended. For a more in-depth guide on the best restaurants and bars in Meribel, check out our guide to restaurants in Meribel.
Apres-ski
The après-ski in Meribel is one of the most animated out of all of the French resorts and not to be missed. There are loads to choose from and Meribel really comes to life when the sun starts to go down. Folie Douce has blaring music to create on-mountain action, while legendary Rond-Point is as lively as it comes, with happy hour from 4pm-5pm and live music, toffee vodka and crowd-surfing becomming common sights.
Things to do
When you’re not speeding down the slopes, there’s plenty to do off the mountains too. The Olympic Centre; where the Olympics were held in 1992, has a ski rink where you can watch regular hockey matches. There is also a bowling alley, climbing wall, gym, cinemas, public pool and spa among much else.
Tempted yet?
Meribel really is the best French ski resort, and one of the best in the world. With such an extensive range of slopes, great restaurants, lively après-ski and loads to do off the mountains too, Meribel is the best place to visit if you’re a keen skier. Staying in a catered chalet in Meribel will really help to make your stay extra special and definately something to consider.
Book your holiday to Meribel & the 3 Valleys!