Meribel Valley

Meribel Valley is a renowned ski area situated in the heart of the French Alps. It forms part of the expansive Three Valleys ski domain, which is the largest interconnected ski area in the world. 

With its picturesque alpine setting and excellent skiing opportunities, Meribel Valley attracts skiers of all levels. 

The history of Meribel Valley dates back to the 1930s when development was started by British Colonel Peter Lindsay. Unlike many purpose-built ski resorts, Meribel Valley was developed as a traditional village, blending harmoniously with its natural surroundings. The architecture mostly features charming wooden chalets and stone buildings, adding to its authentic appeal. 

When you look at the piste map, you'll see that "Meribel" can mean any of a multitude of settlements. There's a chain of key hubs that are connected by a series of Gondolas down the valley - It starts at the bottom of the valley in Brides les Bains (a great value alternative gateway to the 3 valleys) moving up through Les Allues, Le Raffort and La Chaudanne, from which you then get into access to the ski area. There's also Meribel Village, Centre, Le Hameau and Mottaret which are not on the Gondola chain, but have direct access to the ski area. 

Meribel Valley is well-suited for a wide range of skiers. Beginners can take advantage of the excellent ski schools and gentle slopes, while intermediate skiers have a vast selection of blue and red runs to explore. Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the more demanding terrain, including black runs and off-piste routes. The ski area also caters to freestyle enthusiasts, with dedicated snow parks and halfpipes. Either way you have it all when connected to the Three Valleys. 

Which resort is for you? 

Les Allues, Le Raffort, and La Chaudanne: 

These three resorts are located in the lower part of the Meribel valley. Les Allues is the main village, Le Raffort is a traditional mountain village, and La Chaudanne is the central hub where the ski lifts converge. These resorts offer a charming, authentic Alpine atmosphere with easy access to the slopes. They are ideal for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed setting away from the bustling crowds. 

Meribel Village: 

Situated at the entrance of the Meribel valley, Meribel Village is a picturesque and tranquil resort with traditional Savoyard architecture. It offers easy ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes and has its own small range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and bars. Meribel Village is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is a popular choice for those seeking a laid-back skiing experience. 

Meribel Centre: 

As the heart of the Meribel valley, Meribel Centre is a bustling resort with a wide range of facilities and activities. It has a vibrant après-ski scene, numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a lively and popular choice for visitors. Meribel Centre provides excellent access to the slopes, with multiple lifts connecting to various ski areas. It offers a good mix of skiing, entertainment, and convenience. 

Le Hameau: 

Situated on the outskirts of Meribel Centre, Le Hameau is a quieter and more secluded resort. It features a collection of chalets and apartments nestled in a forested area, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting. Le Hameau provides direct access to the slopes and has its own amenities, including shops and restaurants. It is an excellent option for those seeking a serene mountain retreat with easy access to the ski area.It is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders who are looking for a luxurious ski vacation. 

Meribel Mottaret: 

Located at a higher altitude, Meribel Mottaret offers convenient access to the vast Three Valleys ski area. It is a purpose-built resort with ski-in/ski-out accommodations and a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and bars. Meribel Mottaret is known for its excellent snow conditions and panoramic views. It appeals to both beginners and advanced skiers, with a good variety of slopes catering to different skill levels.