the toKeys the press kit
RESORT OPENING FROM DECEMBER 6, 2025, TO APRIL 17, 2026
CONTENTS
KEY FIGURES
▶ BIG PICTURE
KEYS TO FREEDOM
▶ EDITORIAL
THE KEYS OF TIME
▶ WINTER DIARY
KEYS TO THE VALLEY
▶ FOUR VILLAGES IN THE HEART OF LES 3 VALLÉES
KEYS TO THE CHALET
▶ ARCHITECTURE: A LEGACY OF GREATNESS
THE KEY TO THE SLOPES
▶ THE HEARTBEAT OF LES 3 VALLÉES A SKIER’S PARADISE
THE KEYS TO WELLNESS
▶ SPORTS, SPA AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN
THE KEYS TO GOOD TASTE
▶ FROM ALPINE CLASSICS TO GOURMET DELIGHTS
THE KEYS TO ESCAPE
▶ ADVENTURE AROUND EVERY CORNER
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Photo credit: Sylvain AYMOZ / MÉRIBEL TOURISME | Maxime Asselberghs / page 44
Florence Surelle President of the Tourist Office
Sébastien Lazzaroni Director of Domaine Skiable de Méribel-Mottaret at S3V
Fabrice Bonnet Director and living soul of L’Adray Télébar
At the heart of the world's largest linked ski area: Resort overview
72 RUNS at Méribel
8 green, 27 blue, 27 red, and 10 black
150 KM of runs at Méribel
334 RUNS (3 Vallées)
600 KM of runs (3 Vallées)
85% of ski area above 1,800 m altitude
Méribel in numbers
1938: Date of resort creation
SKI AREA OPENING: December 6, 2025 to April 17, 2026
FOUR DATES OF THE ROC DE FER SLOPE IN SKIING HISTORY
40,760 tourist beds
1.9 MILLION overnight stays last winter
2,952 M: Culminating point of the resort, Mont Vallon
1,112 HECTARES of the Plan de Tuéda nature Reserve
14 family fun areas in Méribel
Roc de Fer ski run, Olympic since 1992
The 2.5 km Roc de Fer run rises from an altitude of 2,065 m to 1,465 m.
1992: Olympic Games, women’s alpine skiing
2015: Alpine World Cup Finals
2022: Alpine World Cup Finals
2023: Alpine Skiing World Championships
SCHEDULE
The keys to time
December
DECEMBER 6
RESORT OPENING
DECEMBER 13-14
FRENCH SKI MOUNTAINEERING CHAMPIONSHIPS
▶ Vertical and Sprint
DECEMBER 23
LA FILLE DU MARCHAND DE SABLE
▶ Figure skating show by Olivia and Philippe Candeloro
January
JANUARY 8, 15, 22 AND 29
JAZZ FESTIVAL
▶ Every Thursday
JANUARY 17-18
SAMSE BIATHLON CHALLENGE
JANUARY 26-30
PARA-ALPINE WORLD CUP
▶ 1 slalom and 2 giant slaloms, men and women
JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 1
SAMSE CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
February
FEBRUARY 3-6
FRANGLISH COMEDY FESTIVAL
March
MARCH 9-10
FIS WOMEN’S SLALOM RACES
MARCH 12-13
FIS MEN’S SLALOM RACES
MARCH 12, 19 AND 26
THEATRE
MARCH 27-29
FRENCH MOGUL SKI CHAMPIONSHIPS
MARCH 27-29
SNOWLEADER MOUNTAIN TEST
April
APRIL 3
SOUNDCLASH
APRIL 5
OLYMPE CHALLENGE
Keys to freedom
EDITORIAL
We give you the keys
Destinations need both vision and major projects to make their values tangible. Through its Méribel 2038 plan, the resort has set out an ambitious vision for sustainable tourism that respects and protects its ecosystem. Achieving the Flocon Vert label in December 2024, with two out of a possible three flocons, marks an important first step towards this goal.
Backed by the commune of Les Allues, this plan has become central to Méribel’s identity. For holidaymakers and members of the media who visit, we aim to share the story of this remarkable resort – a story revealed throughout this press kit as we hand over the keys to the resort, a gesture of both trust and welcome.
First, the keys to the town, then the keys to the chalet, as we retrace the history of one of the Alps’ most beautiful destinations, founded on a charter dating back to 1938 and upheld ever since. Next comes the key to the slopes – and not just any slopes, but those at the heart of the world’s largest
linked ski area, Les 3 Vallées. Here, operators continually modernise the lift system while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by switching all groomers and shuttles from diesel to HVO* biofuel.
For those who don’t ski – or simply wish to slow down – we offer the keys to wellness. From indulgent hotel spas to the serenity of untouched landscapes, visitors can enjoy moments of true escape. The Allues Valley, with its sweeping wooded plateaus and hidden valleys, is perfect for micro-adventures in peaceful sanctuaries such as the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve and Vanoise National Park. And if there’s one key you should never lose, it’s the key to good taste – because here, it’s everywhere, especially on your plate.
Gilles Leonard
*HVO is a synthetic biofuel made from hydrotreated oils, designed to help professionals decarbonise their mobility.
toKeys the valley
Four villages in the heart of Les 3 Vallées
The British have long been explorers and adventurers, pioneers uncovering some of the world’s most breathtaking travel destinations. It was one such pioneer—a Scotsman by birth—who first opened the doors of the Allues Valley to us. The year was 1936…
But what was Peter Lindsay searching for in this isolated spot in the heart of the Savoy mountains? A retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world? No – he had other ambitions. Could he have imagined that this would become home to the world’s largest connected ski area, Les 3 Vallées?
Avisionary, Lindsay was right about the natural beauty of the region, with its vast forests and sweeping pastures climbing towards the summits. He was equally right about its potential. Today, Méribel thrives across four distinct sites: the elegant architecture of Méribel Centre, the functional design of Mottaret, the peaceful village atmosphere of Les Allues, and the forested charm of Méribel Village.
To answer the initial question, Peter Lindsay sought a location unlike the resorts of Germany or Austria – one free from the toxic
political climate of the interwar period. Although some French mountains were already developed, options were limited. A builder at heart with a head full of ideas, he chose to start with a blank slate.
During his explorations, he was particularly drawn to the untouched Allues valley. He saw in the mountain pasture called Méribel an obvious choice –made all the more fitting by the name itself, which suggests joy and cheerfulness.
Two years later, in 1938, Méribel welcomed its first skiers. But it wasn’t until after the war that the resort truly took off.
A commitment to decarbonization
Travel by night train with Le Travelski Night Express
Compagnie des Alpes, via its tour operator subsidiary Travelski, is bringing night train travel back into fashion. From December 2025, the train will run between Paris and the Tarentaise Valley, serving Moûtiers. From there, you can either take a shuttle bus to Méribel, or to reduce your carbon footprint as much as possible, take the shuttle bus to Brides-les-Bains, from where you can hop on the L’Olympe gondola and arrive directly in the centre of Méribel. Efficient, relaxing and low-carbon.
Departure on Friday evening, return on Saturday evening, for a full 8 days on site.
Méribel Les Allues
The discreet charm of yesteryear
The village of Les Allues is the origin of the area – the only settlement that existed before the resort was founded – along with a few small hamlets scattered in the surrounding forests, such as Hauteville, Le Raffort, and Le Villard. In the past, reaching the resort from the floor of the Tarentaise Valley required a keen walker’s stamina. Peter Lindsay, however, chose a spot just above Les Allues to lay the foundation stone for Méribel.
Les Allues blends its traditional chalets and barns with small residences that respect the valley’s architectural heritage. Authentic yet modern, without over-commercialisation. Families from the valley still call this place home. Here, tranquillity is the order of the day.
The atmosphere Highlights
The village of Les Allues is connected to the valley and ski area by the Olympus gondola. The Brides-les-Bains departure station will be completely refurbished this winter. An intermediate stop in Les Allues allows skiers and pedestrians to reach Méribel Centre in around ten minutes. The village of Les Allues is thus directly linked to the ski area, and can be reached on skis by the Raffort-Villages piste for part of the season.
Méribel Village
The
Village Sprung
from the Forest
The youngest of the siblings, but already in its thirties, this village is located above the hamlet of La Gittaz, 1 km (by shuttle) from the L’Olympe gondola linking Brides-lesBains to Méribel Centre. It is linked to the slopes by the Golf chairlift.
The ambience
In Méribel Village, wood-clad residences have been built at modest heights, making the resort extremely walkable and giving it a fairytale feel. You will find all the essential shops for a holiday. The surrounding forest feels intertwined with the village, so much so that sometimes you wonder if it wasn’t the forest that created the village in the first place.
Highlights
M
éribel Village truly feels like a village, with all the modern amenities winter guests demand and a lift that climbs up to the Golf and Altiport districts. From here, skiers can choose between the Col de la Loze and the slopes of La Saulire, both of which open up the Courchevel pistes. At the end of the day, everyone can ski back down to the village on the blue Lapin piste.
All around the village, footpaths have been marked out for walking, even in the middle of winter.
340 m
That’s the difference in altitude between skiing down to Les Allues from the summit of Tougnète and skiing down to Méribel Village from the top of La Saulire.
The origins of a great story Méribel Centre
This is the nerve centre of Méribel, where the resort was truly born. The L’Olympe gondola, which climbs from Brides-lesBains, ends here in the La Chaudanne district. This district serves the entire ski area and is home to the majority of the destination’s luxury and charming hotels. Stores and restaurants are abundant. The Albertville 92 Olympic ice rink is also located here. To fully understand La Chaudanne, you need to immerse yourself in it, preferably at the end of the day when the streets sparkle and the bars come alive with après-ski punters. But there’s more to Méribel Centre than just this.
The architecture
From La Chaudanne, you ascend winding streets to reach the Rond-Point (alt. 1,600 m) and Altiport (alt. 1,700 m) districts. Along this serpentine asphalt path weaving through the conifers, elegant chalets and architect-designed residences appear— discreet, almost secretive. Its most notable stretch is known as the «Route des Chalets.»
Peter Lindsay’s vision extended beyond simply creating a ski destination. By commissioning renowned architects in the post-war years, he established Méribel as a benchmark in architecture. Paul-Jacques Grillo, winner of the 1937 Grand Prix de Rome, worked here alongside Christian Durupt and André Detour – pioneers of sustainable architecture harmonised with nature. Charlotte Perriand also played a key role in this movement. Exteriors feature wood and stone, while interiors showcase modernist, functional furniture.
Many others have contributed to the Route des Chalets, a true open-air museum set within lush greenery, where the forest stretches right up to the doorstep.
At the foot of the slopes
At the end of this road, the Rond-Point des Pistes merges with the ski area. New residences have sprung up here, making the area a popular spot for skiers and après-ski enthusiasts alike. The terraces are packed at the end of the day. And at the fast-growing Altiport, large, beautiful residences have sprung up that also open onto the slopes.
The atmosphere
It’s been very English since the 50s. Over the decades, it has become more international, a trend accelerated by the Albertville Games in 1992. The high quality of accommodation (hotels, residences, chalets for rent, etc.) has attracted a cosmopolitan clientele, often with considerable financial means, but without any real ostentation.
Highlights
Add to this a wide selection of gourmet restaurants, complemented by a variety of off-slope activities – ranging from adventurous sports to relaxing wellness experiences. And let’s not forget the ski lifts: modern, thoughtfully designed, they ensure speed, comfort, and an added touch of enjoyment.
From the Green Snowflake to the 2038 project
The process initiated at the end of 2023 for the coveted Flocon Vert label led to its award in December 2024, with no less than 2 Flocons from the first application. The label rewards Méribel’s remarkable efforts in the area of ecological and social transition, which we have been working on for several years. This approach is part of an ambitious sustainable development project called Méribel 2038, the year in which the resort celebrates its centenary.
Méribel Mottaret
A centre point in Les 3 Vallées
The 1970s were a decade of rapid development for mountain resorts, and Méribel was no exception. In 1972, it was decided to build a ski-in/ski-out resort from scratch, right in the heart of the existing ski area. The chosen site was a promontory higher up in the Allues valley, at an altitude of 1,750 metres. The project’s architect, Michel Bezançon – who also designed the Aime 2000 resort – aimed to remove all constraints so that everything would be easily accessible on foot, including accommodation, shops, services and of course, ski lifts.
With Mottaret, the concept of ski-in/ski-out holidays was fully realised. Large residences and hotels were constructed to diversify the resort’s offerings. These pioneering buildings, notable for their capacity to welcome visitors and their integration into the landscape, are regularly renovated to comply with local planning regulations emphasizing wood and stone.
From the 1980s onwards, Mottaret expanded with the development of the Châtelet district, which features many smaller tourist residences. During the 1990s and 2000s, further extensions were added, focusing on chalet residences designed in keeping with traditional mountain architecture.
The atmosphere
It’s all about skiing, and therefore, the après-ski mainly takes place in the original part of the resort. Mottaret has, however, diversified its ambience with the Laitelet and Hameau districts, with more modest and aesthetically pleasing accommodation structures. Despite its altitude, Mottaret is surrounded by large forests.
Highlights
Mottaret is at the geographic heart of the linked Trois Vallées ski area. The wonderful slopes of Mont Vallon (alt. 2,952 m) are within easy reach, as are the gateways to Courchevel and the Belleville valley (Les Menuires, Val Thorens, etc). While everything here is designed for skiing, the resort has also created a number of hiking trails over the past few years, notably the one leading from the Châtelet district to Lac de Tuéda and the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, which is very easy to navigate.
Access all areas
All skiers and snowboarders, whatever their technical level, can rest assured that Mottaret has been designed to cater for both the thrill-seeker and the beginner. The same goes for access to the other 3 Vallées resorts, which are served by a number of blue runs.
Keys to the chalet
Architecture: a legacy of greatness
Considered the most elegant of contemporary Alpine resorts* Méribel owes the preservation of its architecture to a 1938 charter.
For nearly 80 years, Méribel’s architecture has followed the original design charter: gable roofs, west-facing facades, lauze tiles, cut stone and plenty of wood. Unlike other resorts in Les 3 Vallées, Méribel resembles the elegant resorts of the original Valais –thanks to its visionary founders and leading architects of the time, including PaulJacques Grillo, Christian Durupt, André Detour and the iconic Charlotte Perriand.
* Ski resorts were created in the 20th century on virgin territory.
A landmark architectural achievement
It was at the turn of the 60s and 70s, when large housing estates were springing up in the Tarentaise region that still bears the scars, that this determination paid off. From the 90s onwards, Méribel stood out as the pearl of Les 3 Vallées, and has remained a benchmark example of architectural success ever since. Today, developers such as Rising Stone (see opposite) and interior designers such as Yasmine Péru (YBO) use this charter as a mantra to fuel their creativity and perpetuate tradition, just like top chefs who revisit traditional cuisine using local produce.
New accommodation at The Alba, a Rising Stone creation
An ultra-modern interpretation of traditional Alpine style, the opening of the Alba residence is this winter’s architectural highlight. Perched on the heights of Méribel, in the prestigious Rond-Point des Pistes district and close to Le Yéti, Village de l’Orée, and Les Grands Chalets des Pistes, L’Alba is the latest development from Rising Stone, where classic architecture meets pure luxury.
Direct slope access is provided via a footbridge. The 20 apartments feature the warm presence of wood throughout, enhancing the authentic chalet atmosphere. With four orientations, the design achieves a harmonious balance: sunlit slopes to the south, panoramic views of the Allues Valley from east to west and peaceful, forested scenery to the north.
Para-hotel services and on-site amenities –including a grocery and ski shop – offer a near self-sufficient experience for those wanting to fully unwind. Adding to the appeal, the complex includes an indoor pool, a tranquil wellness area and a fully equipped fitness room.
1600 Méribel-labeled accommodations
Created in 2005 for the Vallée des Allues, the Méribel label covers all types of accommodation, from studios to large chalets, up to a 4-star rating and meeting precise criteria.
▶ The criteria
An authentic Alpine ambience, a choice of noble materials, architecture that blends tradition and modernity, the art of comfort and atmosphere, consistent quality and exceptional facilities are all detailed in the Méribel Label.
▶ Customer benefits
The Méribel Label is a guarantee of quality that the selected accommodations meet rigorous criteria of comfort, aesthetics and ambience, offering a warm and cosy mountain atmosphere.
▶ The guarantor
Jean-Philippe Renouprez (in charge of owner relations at Méribel Tourisme): «Méribel is the chalet resort par excellence. The Méribel Label highlights accommodation that respects this warm, traditional mountain style. This means that the accommodation reflects the resort’s internationally recognised charm and quality.»
Méribel is the meeting of a French architect and a visionary Scottish utopian
Florence Surelle
President of the Tourist Office
She recounts how the construction of Méribel propelled the destination to become one of the most elegant in the Alps.
Can you tell us about the history and founding values of the Chalet Savoyard concept in Méribel, and how these are reflected in the resort today?
It was a meeting between two men, a French architect and an Scottish utopian who shared the same vision. Peter Lindsay, the creator of Méribel, and Christian Durupt, an architect, met after the war. Christian remained the resort’s architect for 40 years. They wrote and implemented this charter, which has been part of the Allues valley’s architectural DNA for almost 80 years.
How was the charter implemented?
The first application of the charter that we can trace goes back to the construction of Peter Lindsay’s chalet in 1948: a Savoyard chalet with two sides, a reasoned height, a stone base, wooden beams and a lauze roof.
The first two housing estates followed. Even though he wasn’t the architect, Christian always kept a close eye on projects and permits.
Since then, the constraints throughout the valley have always been the same: wood, stone and gable roofs. This discourages developers who want to build a tower or a liner.
Smaller buildings are less profitable for developers and landowners alike. Was it difficult not to give in to the prevailing discourse of the 1970s, which advocated the construction of large housing estates?
This heritage was a constraint in the beginning, because it slowed down our development compared to our neighbours in Les 3 Vallées. In terms of investment, we were more restricted because each project was privately financed. Once a building was sold, we built another. Whereas in Courchevel, it was the département that financed the project, and in Les Ménuires, the Caisse des dépôts.
My father was a developer and was one of those who built Mottaret. He describes projects that were well received by the local population because the land was very fragmented. It was well suited to the construction of small buildings designed like large chalets.
How does the Méribel label, created in 2005 in the Vallée des Allues, fit in with the 1938 charter?
The Méribel label is a logical but nonbinding extension of the charter, as it only concerns the interior. It’s a guarantee in addition to the Logis de France certification, which, among other things, defines the number of stars. The Méribel label is a guarantee of quality focused on decoration. It has enabled 1,600 owners to renovate their properties in Méribel style. They benefit from advice on the choice of materials, a list of craftsmen and tax advice to write off the cost of the work.
And what guarantee does the label offer customers?
Certified apartments are inspected at least every 5 years. We check that they meet all the quality and comfort criteria, in addition to the criteria for furnished tourist accommodation. And they provide the guarantee that the apartment has been visited and certified.
toKeys the slopes
The heartbeat of Les 3 Vallées: a skier’s paradise
The Méribel ski area’s premium location in the heart of Les 3 Vallées brings with it immense responsibilities, but also magnificent opportunities. At the heart of the resort’s charm are two main operators, S3V and Méribel Alpina, whose goal is to turn every practical aspect of your stay into an enjoyable experience.
With six bascules on the Belleville side (Menuires, Val Thorens) and two on the Courchevel side, the Méribel ski area, known as the heart of Les 3 Vallées, has lived up to its nickname. Every day, tens of thousands of skiers* pass from one valley to the next, and therefore through the Méribel slopes. The operators manage flows on certain sections at certain times well above the average for the resort’s lifts. Not only do they have to bring up thousands of skiers, but they
also have to keep them happy on the way down, whether they’re just passing through or want to take advantage of the exceptional Roc de Fer, Mont de la Chambre or Saulire runs, to name but three.
Skiing in the sun. Thanks to the ski area’s multiple exposures, skiers can take advantage of the sun and find excellent snow conditions all day long. In the mornings, big-ski enthusiasts prefer Mont Vallon and its two red runs, or La Saulire, ideal for first descents in the sun.
Four freeride spot
For off-piste skiing, the options are exceptional and vary to suit every freerider’s preference. One example is the Tournier couloir, a steep 37° black run that’s secured but left ungroomed after snowfall. It offers an extreme challenge without the risk of avalanches.
For experienced or accompanied skiers, the Aiguille du Fruit sector, with its progression along the Creux Noirs ridge, is a classic. It is appreciated for its sustained, wide, even slope and its finish in the magnificent Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve.
Free-riders will be delighted to climb the Col du Borgne (3,039 m) in skins, for an adventurous outing off the beaten path.
This valley in the heart of the 3 Vallées, between Mont Vallon and Val Thorens, is renowned for its fresh snow and lack of lifts.
For forest skiing, Le Raffort, at the entrance to the Vallée des Allues, is ideal when visibility is poor on the rest of the resort. Numerous itineraries from the Olympic chairlift converge on the Olympe gondola. Using skins allows you to progress along the ridge, regain height up to the Col de Jean, and shift off to find untouched combes before skiing in the forest.
Beginner package: Mini Pass but maxicool
With a dozen or so eligible lifts in almost every sector, the Mini Pass is a pass designed for beginners. Not only is it valid for the whole day, but it also guides skiers in their learning period to Méribel’s easiest slopes: safe, groomed green and blue runs with no overhangs. It complements the two free carpets on the snow fronts.
Price: 38.50€ and free for children under 5.
Security Patrol turns 15
Inspired by the American Ski Patrol and the Swiss Patrol, the Méribel Security Patrol was created at Méribel Mottaret in 2011. Their mission is complementary to that of the PGHM’s ski patrols and gendarmes. Permanently present in key areas of the resort, they inform and advise skiers. Their missions include prevention, with the aim of limiting accidents on the slopes. Unlike the North American Ski Patrol, they are not involved in punishment, but in making skiers aware of the dangers of the mountains and reminding them of the rules of good practice. Particularly on days when ski area operating conditions can be disrupted by the weather, for example.
Skiing with children
Families and beginners prefer the eastern slopes, where the fun runs at Yeti Park, Little Himalaya and the altiport are open from 10 am to 4 pm. In the afternoon, fresh snow persists on the west-facing slopes of Col de la Loze and Pas du Lac.
During the 8-week school holidays, there’s a programme of activities especially for children. Parents worried about running out of ideas or energy, or who simply want to be on holiday too, will find an answer to their stress on the Altiport sector and the Inuits piste. Magic, ice sculptures, archery – there are plenty of free activities for the whole family to enjoy alongside skiing and tobogganing. The schedule of activities can be consulted in the diary and the activities guide.
3 Vallees news:
Côte Brune speeds up links with Vallée des Belleville
In a ski area that is constantly being modernised, SV3 is investing accordingly. This winter, the link to Val Thorens at Mont de la Chambre will no longer be provided by the historic Côte Brune chairlift, but will benefit from new Leitner gondolas of the same name, capable of carrying 10 people simultaneously. The 51 enclosed gondolas will be able to transport 2,600 skiers per hour in great comfort. The new installation will remove 11 pylons from the wild. In addition to improving this strategic axis of Les 3 Vallées, this new gondola lift will make it even more comfortable for skiers to enjoy this sublime slope.
Heart of the resort:
Les Rhodos since 1990
Another major investment for Méribel Alpina is the €10m renovation of the Rhodos gondola lift. This gondola lift, which has been in operation for 36 years, serves the Rond-Point and Altiport sectors and is particularly popular with beginners, children and ski schools. The cabins will be replaced by the latest-generation models (Poma Diamond 8) with 8 seats or 10 standing places. A complete overhaul of the electrical installations and a more integrated architectural renovation of the stations will change the landscape of La Chaudanne.
*Estimate based on 2.5 million skier-days/year sold in the 3 Vallées.
** 81.80 € 3 Vallées day pass; 409 €/6 days, i.e. 5 days for the price of 6.
Scenic summit:
Le Roc de fer from top to bottom
The new relaxation experience, launched last winter at the summit of Roc de Fer, is back. This scenic, fully dismantlable area is located just steps from the arrival of the Olympic chairlift. It offers a stunning 360° panorama, stretching from the Écrins to Mont Blanc, including the Vanoise glaciers, the Aiguilles d’Arves and the summits of the 3 Vallées.
The space features three distinct areas: a swing suspended in the centre of the logo, equipped with a high-quality camera – simply scan your ski pass to instantly receive and share your photo; a terrace designed for peak observation, enhanced with a holographic viewing system; and a rest area for picnics or quiet contemplation, complete with tables and a hammock.
Exclusive:
The first track on the Tougnète side
Good news for early bird* first-track enthusiasts: the scheme is expanding. Following on from La Saulire, Méribel Alpina is opening up the freshly groomed pistes on the Tougnète side of the slope, one day a week. Skiers will take the Tougnète 1&2 gondola and chairlift, and will be able to make a second ascent from the intermediate station. Depending on the conditions, the pisteurs who secure this exclusive experience will direct skiers to one of the four pistes (blue, red or black) on one of Méribel’s most beautiful slopes. Breakfast will be served at La Chaudanne in a welcoming lounge with an innovative design.
Selling price per person: €45 (participants must also have a valid Vallée de Méribel or 3 Vallées pass on the day of the First Track).
*early bird «Ensuring the best possible experience without compromising safety sometimes means making
Ensuring the best possible experience without compromising safety sometimes requires making difficult decisions!
Sébastien Lazzaroni
Director of Domaine Skiable de Méribel-Mottaret at S3V
Does having your ski area located in the heart of the 3 Vallées require more resources, more responsibilities?
Not necessarily more resources, as each valley has similar facilities. But being at the heart of the 3 Vallées does require a high degree of coordination, especially when it comes to opening links between resorts, depending on the weather and slope conditions. Our responsibility is to ensure the best possible experience without compromising safety, even if this sometimes means making difficult decisions about opening or closing links. We don’t want to frustrate our customers by being too cautious and keeping the links closed, but we also don’t want to let customers leave for the other end of the ski area without being able to get them back to their departure station in the evening because the storm has risen in the meantime. That’s our responsibility!
How do you get freeride skiers to cohabit with protected areas such as the Vanoise National Park or the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve?
By providing information! We raise skiers’ awareness by providing piste maps, signs and clear markings at key points in the ski area. There’s still plenty of off-piste area, so you just have to respect a few zones to preserve the peace and quiet of the wildlife.
What is the mission of Security Patrols Méribel?
Created in 2011, this team focuses on welcome, information and prevention. Their main aim is to limit accidents, not through repression or guilt-tripping, but through support and advice. Their presence also helps to keep customers better informed, especially in difficult weather conditions.
How does technology improve the skiing experience, in terms of safety, prevention and slope quality?
Technology optimises snow production and slope preparation, thanks to specific equipment on our snow groomers. We operate from December to April, without increasing our impact on resources. Ski lifts are safer, more comfortable and faster. Finally, the use of drones saves us precious time when searching for a lost person or during an avalanche warning.
the Keys to wellness
Sports, spa and everything in between
Off the slopes, Méribel knows how to keep you there
With 45,000 hectares of land available to winter guests, Méribel has plenty of space outside the ski area for a variety of activities. Whether outdoors or indoors, you can pick and choose according to the moment and/or your instinct.
Off the slopes, but not off the slopes
Tobogganing – Two runs are particularly popular with tobogganers. The first, called Little Himalaya, at Méribel Mottaret, takes you down 2 km of tracked slope in the Yéti Park. It’s open by night between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm.
Prices: €9/run and €18.50/evening and free for accompanied children under 11.
The second has 28 bends, so you can be sure that the thrill is made to last! To get to the starting point, you have to reach the top of the Tougnète 1 gondola. Then it’s on to Mission Black Forest, as you make your way down a scenic descent.
Prices: 14€ per descent or 11€ / person for 4 people or 4 descents including gondola ride, helmet and toboggan rental (minimum height 1.40 m).
Biathlon – Meet up at the Altiport shooting range, put on a pair of cross-country boots, do a quick loop around the track and learn to control your breath to better aim at your targets using a real pellet rifle.
ESF organises 5-day courses, 1h30/day from €675/pers.
Meet at the Parc Olympique for three great activities.
The Olympic ice rink stays open all season, except during field hockey games and figure skating events. Don’t count on performing for a crowd of 2,500 spectators. That spotlight belongs to the local Bouquetins hockey team, now proudly competing in Division 1.
The ice rink will come alive with holiday magic this Christmas as it hosts La Fille du Marchand de Sable, a spellbinding show directed by Olivia Candeloro.
This enchanting production will transport audiences into a rich, poetic world where artistry meets emotion. Brought to life by a cast of exceptional performers, each scene blends diverse disciplines and heartfelt expression, creating an experience that is both immersive and deeply moving.
The evening will be presented by Philippe Candeloro, who will delight spectators with a special surprise performance on the ice to close the show.
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 – 6:00 PM
Tickets: €15–50
The 25-meter swimming pool offers a dedicated lane for laps, while the rest of the pool is perfect for relaxing or playing. A fun slide leads into an adjacent pool.
Entry fees: €7.50 for adults, €5.50 for ages 5–17, and free for children under 5 and seniors over 75.
The climbing wall is freely accessible (depending on the number of visitors). Mountain guides are on hand to advise and introduce you to the various techniques.
Prices: €70/2 people, €15 extra per person for up to 6 people in the group, 1h.
Rejuvenate off the slope
Spa and treatment centres are found throughout several hotels, tourist residences, and the Parc Olympique. L’Alpen Ruitor – the only spa in Mottaret – use products from Dermatologica, Le Kaïla, and La Chaudanne Nuxe, while L’Hélios offers Phytomer, Le Grand Coeur uses Valmont and L’Hévana features Deep Nature products.
At L’Antarès, spanning over 800 m², the focus is on both mind and body, combining diet and beauty treatments. Le Coucou offers treatments using American Tata Harper products. The Médispa at the La Traye hotel-retreat is worth visiting not only for its peaceful setting but also for its unique treatments, including the Iyashi Dome (a Japanese sauna), Mostleds (photo biomodulation), milk baths, and hot hay beds.
In addition to its sports facilities, the Parc Olympique features a 350 m² Pure Altitude spa, complete with saunas, hammams, a whirlpool bath, and a relaxation room. Entry costs €24 and is available for ages 16 and over.
Find a selection of spas at Méribel.net/bien-etre
Three teachers invite you to follow the path to inner well-being. Corinne Blat follows the rules of kundalini yoga and takes an Ayurvedic approach to her discipline. Magali Bras takes you into the forest or beside a river for a reconnection with the feminine. Marcela Bemposta works with pranayama, breath, energy and psychotherapy.
Running on snow
Start by acclimatising at altitude with a walk around the pedestrian-friendly Lake Tuéda. Then move up a gear, either to the Altiport or from Méribel Centre to the refuge de la Traye, which is also popular with hikers.
Lac de Tuéda, Mottaret
Here, over 1,000 hectares have been set aside for a variety of outdoor activities, both gentle and sporting.
• Running on snow or snowshoeing around the icy lake,
• Explor Games, regularly enhanced with new markers and challenges,
• Yoga in the peaceful surroundings of Cembro pine forest,
• The Maison de la Réserve du Plan de Tuéda for a better understanding of the natural world thanks to a high-quality educational tool.
• Cross-country skiing in the Tuéda Nature Reserve. Two free trails invite you to glide through breathtaking winter landscapes – perfect for beginners taking their first steps on skis, or for anyone seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of nature.
Culture sweetens the deal
• January: Jazz – various concerts
• February: shows for children.
• March: the Coup de Théâtre comedy programme.
• April: conferences at the summit.
• The Roc de Fer tunnel, street art by Franck Blériot.
• Along the Route des Chalets, remarkable architecture.
The cultural program can be found at www.Méribel.net
the Keys to good taste
From alpine classics to gourmet delights
One measure of a mountain resort’s appeal is the quality of its cuisine. Méribel offers a wide range of restaurants where gastronomy is inventive, chic and upmarket. But that certainly doesn’t exclude addresses where original, local recipes can be found at lower prices. Whatever the choice, wherever the location, in the resort or on the slopes, chefs are increasingly committed to short supply chains and local produce. From authentic to Michelin-starred, from finger food to bistronomy, Méribel delivers the best.
Lunch on the snow
By midday, the sun sparkles across the perfectly groomed slopes. The breathtaking alpine views etch themselves into your memory, while the thought of a sundrenched terrace at a mountaintop restaurant stirs your appetite. Try Maya Altitude, a must-visit with its 360° view, where sublime meats matured on-site are grilled in a wood-fired oven.
The next day, dine at Fruitière, part of the famous Folie Douce, where onion soup and tartiflette sit alongside hot seafood platters, Madagascar caviar, and grilled lobster. On another day, stop by the bistro Le Monchu, renowned for its desserts—the perfect finale to a passionate cuisine.
Then there’s the brand-new Tipi on the Aigle red trail. With its Amerindian ambience, beautiful terrace, and interiors showcasing fine cuts of meat like trophies, it offers a unique experience accessible to intermediate and advanced skiers. Chef Fabien François, trained under Robuchon and Alléno, leads the kitchen. If you prefer to stay close to the resort, ski down the Doron blue run to Hôtel Le Coucou, where inventive and colourful bistronomy is served, focusing on rare meats from Argentina to Japan, enjoyed on a lovely terrace.
For a tranquil forest setting, head to Clos Bernard near the Altiport, within walking distance. For over ten years, this restaurant has showcased Alpine gastronomy, including its famous Savoyard cocotte.
If you seek absolute peace and quiet, walk, snowshoe, or ski the 5 km to Hameau de la Traye, an architectural gem and a haven of gourmet delights.
Après-ski terraces
As the day winds down and the light softens, it’s time to seek out a sunkissed terrace – the perfect bridge between the thrill of the slopes and the promise of a relaxed evening. At Rond-Point des Pistes, facing the last slope you skied in style, Le Lilie is a great introduction before returning for dinner. In Mottaret, Le Rastro serves platters, and in Méribel Centre, the aptly named L’Abreuvoir regales you with countless wines.
Tables for all tastes
It’s time for dinner. The resort’s lights create a warm atmosphere that defies the cold outside. Every evening offers a unique culinary experience. Enjoy chic, original dishes at Lilie; delicate Italian flavours at Fifi; cosy, homemade fare at Blanchot; and authentic, local Savoyard cuisine at La Fromagerie.
For grilled specialties and a genuine atmosphere, try L’Adray Télébar. Experience lively evenings at Le 80, where the décor invites the curious, or savour dedicated Italian dishes at Biancaneve. For wine lovers, Partajo boasts a cellar with 500 references. French cuisine is innovated at Marius, while L’Ekrin, led by the talented Laurent Azoulay, holds Méribel’s only Michelin star.
For those seeking great value, more modestly priced options like Café Del Mott, Chalet Tonia, and Le Rastro offer simple, tasty, and convivial Savoyard dishes.
Live music
On the slopes, the afternoon can be transformed into a techno live-DJ set-show sequence with ski boots on at La Folie Douce at 2,100 m (until 5 p.m.) or at Maya Altitude at 2,345 m (Thursdays). Back in the resort, the Lodge terrace in Méribel Village comes alive with music at the end of the day. The dance floor of the Rond-Point des Pistes vibrates to the steps of locals and Brits alike. In some pubs, artists perform according to the season.
NEW every Thursday evening at Le Tipi, a mix of live music, dining and an unusual experience at this new address opened last winter above Mottaret. In the evening, the lift up and down the mountain is operated by caterpillar.
End on the perfect note
As the evening draws to a close, a nightcap in one of the hotel bars is a must. The intensity of the day gives way to a quiet atmosphere around a fireplace, the cottony silence, the smell of wood and two clinking glasses. You’ll find this at the Alpen Ruitor, Mont Vallon, Grand Coeur, Savoy, Chaudanne, Coucou and many other hotel bars as you wander through the resort.
Fabrice Bonnet
Director and living soul of L’Adray Télébar:
For those who know Méribel, L’Adray is an institution, the only hotel anchored in the middle of a slope – the Doron – between La Chaudanne and the Rond-Point des Pistes. It all began in 1950.
Fabrice’s parents set up a few tables in a mountain chalet. In 1958, three rooms were created, then more. 1995-2000, the second generation takes over: Fabrice and his wife Valérie take over the reins of the establishment, which now boasts 21 rooms, 3 small chalets and a table to satisfy any authentic craving. For regular guests, L’Adray Télébar reflects the original soul of the resort.
telebar-hotel.com
We have to preserve the local fabric at all costs. That's what forges the soul of Méribel.
What’s the latest on gastronomy in Méribel?
We live in a rich territory from which we have always drawn. A wide range of cheeses, charcuterie, diots and pormoniers, pasta too and wines and beers. We’ve been buying from the same butcher’s shop for half a century, Maison Petit, now taken over by an employee. All these local products have been our staple since the very beginning, and Thierry Lutz, our chef for the past 20 years, is no exception. I could choose my products from the other side of the world, but we’re not interested. Burger-making? Certainly not! Savoy potée is much tastier. Salmon from Norway? No more. We do what we’ve known how to do from the start, local and seasonal as much as possible. In fact, my son Raphaël has banned tomatoes in winter.
Affordable rates?
At L’Adray Télébar, the daily special is around €23. It’s hard to keep prices reasonable for various reasons. But in any case, you have to be honest with yourself.
The resort’s move upmarket?
We may well be stimulated by surrounding investors, but that’s not my business model. We want to remain a 3-star establishment, and we’re one of the exceptions. Resorts need establishments like L’Adray, and so do winter guests. We renovate a little each year, and when the top floor is finished, we start again from the first. The hotel and restaurant business is a demanding profession, sometimes even a priesthood.
What does the future hold for Méribel?
The future in winter is that the colour white will always attract people, even if they don’t want to ski. Summer also has a future, because it’s still cool here. And when my son takes over from me, we may see Méribel living all year round, and the Adray Télébar with it. But above all, we have to preserve the local fabric at all costs. That’s what forges the soul of Méribel.
the Keys to escape
Adventure around every corner
With or without skis, by day or under the stars, Méribel offers adventures for all ages — sometimes paired with a gourmet meal, an overnight stay in a mountain refuge, or a serene, timeless stroll.
Dinner in the woods
On foot through the Altiport forest, or on skis at dusk on the closed pistes, spending an evening at Le Clos Bernard leaves a lasting impression. For walkers, access is from the altiport road parking lot in 10 minutes on a marked path. Cross-country skiers need to follow the slopes from Méribel centre (1h20) or Rond-Point (1h) or Altiport (30’) to the start of the Loze Express chairlift. From here, the itinerary starts on the animal trail, then quickly branches off for a ten-minute glide through the heart of the woods. First, the smell of wood fires, then a halo of light in the middle of a clearing, is a wonderful reward, as is the bistronomic cuisine, with its emphasis on grilled meats. The return journey, in the middle of the night and with a headlamp, involves finding your way back through the forest to the trail. Then it’s just a matter of drifting off into the golden light that rises from the resort.
Loose withoutyourself getting lost
Walkers and runners will be pleasantly surprised by the variety of trails starting from Méribel Village, Centre, or Rond-Point, all converging at the Altiport plateau via the Chemin des Inverses. The lower part of the trail passes the golf course, where open clearings in the woods offer stunning views over the Allues Valley. You’ll enjoy wandering these paths, never truly lost, as you come across a cross-country ski trail, a well-placed bench, or a restaurant such as Le Blanchot, with its large sunny terrace overlooking the golf course. Higher up, you’ll find Le Clos Bernard (mentioned above) nestled in the woods.
This spirit of exploring the wild extends to snowshoe walks, especially around the Altiport with the ESF, which offers morning or afternoon sessions (approx. €40). They also organise trapper outings under the stars, igloo evenings, and two-day minitreks deep in the heart of the Vanoise.
The Great Alpine Reserve: Méribel's Untamed Beauty
Leaving Méribel Mottaret, the path to Plan de Tuéda opens into a landscape reminiscent of a Native American reserve, offering a complete change of scenery. The lake, frozen in winter, lies beneath a white blanket, marked only by the occasional hare or fox track. The Doron torrent, perhaps hiding a few nuggets, winds through 1,100 hectares of natural space surrounded by peaks rising to 3,000 metres.
Between the lake and the forest, the Nature Reserve house features an exhibition area and a refreshment bar serving light meals at lunchtime. While there are no trappers or grizzlies here, deer roam freely and lammergeiers soar like Lucky Luke’s vulture. Though wolves are rarely seen, just knowing they inhabit the Vanoise National Park nearby is enough to spark the imagination and inspire great stories.
Night at refuge du saut
Pairing a ski tour with an overnight stay in a mountain refuge offers the ultimate adventure for anyone seeking unforgettable experiences. The refuge is also accessible on snowshoes from Mottaret. For skiers, head towards the Vallon du Fruit (see Les Clés du Domaine) to reach the Plagne plateau, where you’ll need to put on your skins to climb up to Refuge du Saut. This first section takes less than four hours from the summit of La Saulire.
Arriving at the refuge marks the start of the survival phase: lighting the wood-burning stove to warm the refuge and cook your meal. Once this essential task is done, adventurers can enjoy the silence and the clear night sky, perfect for stargazing far from light pollution.
The next day, the journey continues – either skiing to the foot of the Gebroulaz glacier or taking a gentle half-hour descent to Lake Tuéda.
