Winter 2026–27 | Press Kit
CONTENTS
04
06
08
Key figures
The Méribel Style
Winter Calendar
Méribel Makes Its Mark in Les 3 Vallées
Editorial: Evolving without losing its identity
Events with style
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20
Lifestyle
Architectural Style
Four villages, four distinct personalities
Lindsay: a visionary who broke the mould
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30
39
Alpin style
Freestyle & Freeride
What’s New
Black, red, blue, green: the four colours of the slopes
Snowparks and safe offpiste areas for skiing with a sense of freedom
A round-up of the latest openings and new additions
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Dining in Style
Sport & Style
Inspired bistro-style dining, Michelin-starred cuisine and great taste at every turn
Outdoor adventures and indoor wellbeing
Key figures
When style can be measured
At the heart of the world’s largest interconnected ski area
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Méribel in numbers 72 pistes in Méribel: 8 green, 27 blue, 27 red and 10 black runs
150 km of pistes in Méribel
334 pistes across Les 3 Vallées
600 km of pistes across Les 3 Vallées
85% of the ski area lies above 1,900 metres
1938 the year Méribel was founded
Ski area opening dates 5 December 2026 – 18 April 2027
40 868 touristic beds
1.92 million overnight stays
2,952 m the resort’s highest point, Mont Vallon
1,112 hectares of protected nature within the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve
Four landmark dates in the history of the Roc de Fer piste An Olympic piste since 1992 At 2.5 km long, the Roc de Fer piste stretches from an altitude of 2,065 m down to 1,465 m.
1992 Olympic Winter Games – Women’s Alpine Skiing
2015 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Finals
2022 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Finals
14 family fun areas
2023
across Méribel
FIS Alpine World Ski Championships
5 new restaurants to discover this winter 5
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The Méribel Style – Editorial
Evolving Without Losing Its Identity T
he Méribel style is a distinctive signature in the Alps: an ability to evolve while remaining true to its roots. Born in the 1930s from the vision of a pioneering Scotsman, it brings together British heritage and Savoyard tradition to create a rare balance, where elegance is understated and authenticity comes naturally. The Méribel style is reflected as much in the resort’s villages as in its atmosphere. Four villages, four distinct personalities, united by a shared sense of harmony. From the authentic charm of Les Allues and the sporty, practical character of Mottaret to the intimate appeal of Méribel Village and the elegant heart of Méribel Centre, each has its own identity while contributing to a coherent and distinctive whole. Architecture lies at the heart of this identity and has shaped Méribel throughout its history. Here, wood, stone and traditional pitched roofs are not simply decorative touches; they are fundamental to the resort’s character. This commitment to blending naturally into the mountain landscape was established from the very beginning and has endured for decades. Today, it continues to guide renovations, new developments and improvements, ensuring Méribel evolves without giving way to luxury for luxury’s sake. Above all, the Méribel style comes to life through the experience itself. At the heart of Les 3 Vallées, skiers can move seamlessly between beautifully groomed pistes, untouched off-piste terrain and dedicated beginners’ areas, supported by modern lifts and a thoughtfully designed ski area. And there is just as much to enjoy beyond skiing: opportunities to get active, breathe in the mountain air, find inspiration or simply slow down and unwind.
The Méribel style stands out as a signature unlike any other in the Alps.
When it’s time to come together, Méribel’s excellent restaurants provide the perfect setting. It is this shared pursuit of quality – on the slopes, around the table and throughout the resort – that gives Méribel its unmistakable and much-envied style. Distinctive, effortless and uniquely its own.
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Winter 2026–2027 | events
Events with Style December
March
April
5 December
7 - 13 March
2 April
22 December
8 - 15 March
3 & 4 April
28 & 29 December
11, 18 & 25 March
12 - 17 April
31 December
19 March
Resort opening
Patin’Air Ice Show
Courses FIS Slalom
New Year’s Eve with La Folie Douce
VTTAE Winter Tour
Dinner in the Sky
Les Coups de Théâtres
Riders film festival 19 - 21 March
Snowleader Mountain Test
January
20 -23 March
Ecureuil d'or (Super G)
7, 14, 21 & 28 January
Weekly Jazz Festival
20 - 26 March
French Nordic Skiing Championships
12 January
Xplore Alpes Festival 23 & 30 March
Last track 27-29 January
Telemark World Cup 31 January to 5 February
Paname Comedy Club
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Soundclash
Défi de l'Olympe
Instructors’ Challenge & 80th Anniversary of Méribel ESF
Méribel ESF Turns 80: The Legendary Torchlit Descents Return
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o celebrate the 80th anniversary of Méribel ESF, the spectacular torchlit descents that helped build its reputation are making a comeback.
Gourmet Dining in the Sky
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or two unforgettable evenings, March 8th and 15th, the Saulire Express gondola is transformed into a restaurant in the sky. Wrapped up with blankets and hot-water bottles, guests embark on a unique culinary journey after dark, with the mountain peaks providing a spectacular backdrop. Behind the scenes, Michelin-starred chef Laurent Azoulay of L’Ekrin oversees an impressive feat of precision and logistics. From a pop-up kitchen on the snow front at La Chaudanne, his team prepares each course before loading the hot dishes directly into the gondola cabins as they pass. A remarkable technical achievement – and a truly memorable dining experience in the heart of Les 3 Vallées.
From Mont Vallon, La Face and Les Crêtes to the lighting of the traditional oven in Les Allues as the procession passes through the village, these spectacular large-scale descents will illuminate the resort as part of a special sound-and-light show on Wednesday evenings throughout the school holidays.
Last Track
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e already knew about First Track, but as the days grow longer, Méribel has imagined Last Track: a new special moment on the slopes in the glow of the final rays of sunshine. Just before setting off for the very last ski descent of the day, on a freshly groomed piste, guests can enjoy a musical aperitif. Meet on 23rd and 30th March, at the bottom of the Roc de Tougne chairlift in Mottaret, for one final descent by the light of the first stars — and your head torch. 9
Lifestyle
So British, Yet So Savoyard If you thought Méribel was one single, seamless resort, think again. Méribel is actually made up of four distinct villages, each with its own atmosphere, history and character. Different they may be, but together they form a remarkably complementary whole – and have helped create the distinctive, much-envied “Méribel style.”
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ister resorts, neighbouring villages – whatever you choose to call them, they share the same promise: the exhilaration of the mountains and an exceptional Alpine experience. And it all began with one man’s vision. A story that explains Méribel’s distinctly British beginnings and the unmistakably Savoyard character it has today.
The Story Behind the Resort
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fter turning his attention away from Austria (see p. 12), Peter Lindsay, a keen mountaineer and proud Scotsman, set out to create his ideal ski resort from the ground up. From the 1950s onwards, Méribel became a firm favourite with British visitors. While Brexit and the Covid pandemic temporarily slowed this long-standing love affair, the connection remains strong today. Many British residents have also made Méribel their home. Jimmy Torres, owner of Jacks, is one of them and sits on the Tourist Office’s management committee. Richard Lett, meanwhile, has lived in the resort for 28 years. As well as managing two restaurants, including La Terrasse in Méribel Village, he has curated the music programme for the Franglish stand-up comedy festival through his company, Piste Productions. Now based in Les Allues, he has even been elected as a local councillor, alongside fellow British resident Samantha Langley.
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According to Richard Lett, Méribel has long attracted affluent British visitors who appreciate the resort’s understated character. Some come to socialise, while others prefer to remain firmly under the radar – including the many British actors and well-known faces who return to this corner of Savoie. And while the British may sometimes seem to be everywhere in Méribel, Richard jokes that this is largely because they are particularly enthusiastic when it comes to aprèsski and nightlife. The figures certainly underline the enduring British connection. Last winter, UK visitors accounted for almost 23% of overnight stays, making Britain Méribel’s second-largest market after France at 37%, and well ahead of the USA in third place at 6.6%. Yet Méribel’s identity is about more than its British heritage. It is the effortless meeting of two cultures – Savoyard tradition and British warmth, enriched by a distinctly cosmopolitan outlook – that gives the resort its unique character today.
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Lifestyle
Les Allues and Méribel Village
Two identities, two destinies and a gap of several centuries.
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Les Allues alt. 1,100 m
THE HISTORIC HEART OF THIS STORY
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t the start of the 20th century, Les Allues was a thriving old village perched high above the market town of Moûtiers, in the Tarentaise Valley. A few hamlets, some of them very isolated, lay scattered around Les Allues. Everywhere, mountain pastures carpeted the slopes, sharing the landscape with vast forests – a harmonious whole dominated by easily accessible peaks. In the village, the old timber and stone buildings have weathered the decades with care. With the growth of tourism, many have been preserved, often renovated to offer more modern comforts. Much like the traditional mountain villages of old, life in Les Allues is peaceful and refreshingly lowkey. It’s a relaxed place to slow down and switch off, while still being just one lift ride away from the excitement of the 3 Vallées. A symbol of this direct link, the final run at the end of the day can be enjoyed in one go from Tougnète, covering a vertical drop of 1,340 metres.
New The cultural and museum centre, L’Écho, in Les Allues
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ithin the walls of a former presbytery, an iconic building in the village, you’ll now find the municipal library and a charming museum where you can delight in exploring Les Allues’ original agricultural heritage, right up to the emergence of the world-famous resort. Here, everyone can learn, share and pass on knowledge.
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Lifestyle
Méribel Village
alt. 1,400 m
A LIVELY YOUNGER SIBLING
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ust a short drive away, the youngest of Méribel’s villages has a relaxed, family-friendly feel while still offering plenty of energy. Close to the slopes and perfect for walking, it’s surrounded by forest, with timber-clad residences blending naturally into the landscape. Developed in the 1970s with the arrival of Pierre & Vacances, Méribel Village brings together all the essential shops within a compact area, so you never need to take the car. And, just like in Les Allues, you can ski down 1,340 metres of vertical drop from Saulire to round off the day.
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Lifestyle
Méribel Centre alt. 1,450 m
A PLATEAU, ALPINE MEADOWS, FORESTS AND BEAUTIFUL SLOPES – MÉRIBEL WAS BORN SURROUNDED BY THE VERY BEST OF THE MOUNTAINS.
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pon arriving in Les Allues in 1936, Peter Lindsay discovered the Méribel mountain pasture, situated high above the village. Captivated by the harmony of the landscape, he very quickly envisaged what the place could become. By 1938, the groundwork had been laid and the first ski lift installed. This is where the ski resort truly came into being. Back then, you had to have a head for heights and not be afraid of accidents, suspended beneath a cable in open baskets exposed to the elements… But the economic crisis looming in Germany and Austria was about to spread, bringing Méribel’s development to a halt. Peter Lindsay was patient. As early as 1946, he got the project back on track. In the 1950s, he commissioned renowned architects, expanded the network of ski lifts, marked out runs, developed the area and organised its infrastructure. Hotels and private chalets sprang up.
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AN UNSTOPPABLE MOMENTUM
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nitially centred around the hamlet of La Chaudanne (now the strategic heart of the resort), Méribel began to spread its wings. This gave rise to the famous Route des Chalets, where beautiful architect-designed houses sprang up, nestled amongst the vegetation. Wealthy Brits were the first major investors: they loved exploring the mountains just as much as they loved escaping London! Then Méribel went global, winning over the French, of course, and soon the whole world. The ski area is renowned for being accessible and its reputation is well established: so everyone wants to be part of it!
LUXURY WITHOUT OSTENTATION
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he development of Méribel Centre has never taken the easy route, nor has it succumbed to overtourism. By adhering to a rigorous architectural charter, this philosophy of high quality has thus created (and preserved) a cohesive whole where luxury has certainly taken root, but where the absence of ostentation has appealed to those who detest showing off in a ‘bling’ manner. With the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, Méribel Centre was given a new lease of life: hotels were modernised, accommodation options diversified, charming boutiques sprang up and excellent restaurants came to the fore. Since then, the ‘Méribel style’ has continued to evolve. Renovations and new developments, supported by the ongoing upgrading of the ski area and a simplification of the ski lift network, uphold the guiding principle: to attract a clientele seeking the exceptional, but certainly not the unattainable.
In Méribel Centre, uniqueness lies in the diversity of its neighbourhoods
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éribel Centre should be thought of as a series of neighbourhoods. First, there is La Chaudanne, where both expert and beginner skiing begins, where the grand hotels offer a variety of styles and the restaurants cater to every palate. Then there is Les Chalets with its famous Route des Chalets – a quiet, residential area with a fascinating architectural history. Higher still is the Rond-Point neighbourhood (alt. 1,600 m), whose snow front boasts lovely terraces where people gather at the end of the day to enjoy the last rays of sunshine. Or the Altiport district (alt. 1,700 m), which has seen the most recent developments, with beautiful residences nestled in the forest.
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Lifestyle
Méribel Mottaret alt. 1,750 m
A RESORT RIGHT ON THE SLOPES, IN THE HEART OF THE 3 VALLÉES.
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ou have to look back in time to fully understand the concept behind Mottaret. In the 1970s, the growth of skiing led to a rapid proliferation of resorts built from scratch – large complexes dedicated exclusively to winter sports, where you could simply walk down the stairs from your accommodation and find yourself, without a moment’s pause, skis on your feet, on the piste. Méribel Mottaret was designed with this in mind, where nothing matters more than the sport itself.
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A RADICAL YET HARMONIOUS EVOLUTION
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ottaret has retained its original buildings but has done away with their raw concrete appearance in favour of timber cladding; meanwhile, the accommodation has embraced spaciousness, comfort and aesthetic appeal. As a sign of measured development, the newer neighbourhoods of Laitelet and Le Hameau have favoured stone and timber chalets, in line with both guests’ expectations and the town planning scheme. As for the Châtelet neighbourhood, it serves as a gateway to the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, just a stone’s throw away. Finally, the forest has expanded considerably all around, contributing to the transformation of this highly versatile village.
100% sport & outdoor
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éribel Mottaret boasts a strategic and eclectic location! As the geographical centre of the 3 Vallées – the world’s largest interconnected ski area, a unique asset that even beginners can enjoy to the full – it also serves as the valley’s gateway to the Vanoise National Park, featuring the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, which offers opportunities for contemplation or adventures off the beaten track.
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Architectural style
History Almost 90 Years Ahead of Its Time At a time when ski resorts were increasingly being built as large-scale developments, Méribel chose a different path. With its traditional architecture and strong aesthetic identity, the resort stood apart from the outset – setting a precedent almost 90 years ahead of its time.
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rom the moment Peter Lindsay founded Méribel in 1938 (see profile below), the resort went against the functionalist approach that would come to dominate post-war mountain development. As France rebuilt after the war, large-scale housing developments became increasingly common. In the mountains, the first Plan Neige in 1964 followed a similar philosophy, giving rise to purpose-built, integrated ski resorts. While much of the Tarentaise embraced concrete and high-rise construction, Méribel remained committed to pitched roofs, west-facing gables, local stone, slate and timber. This distinctive approach was protected by an architectural charter, famously first sketched out by Peter Lindsay on the back of a napkin. Supported by local councillors, its principles were rigorously upheld by Christian Durupt, who served as Méribel’s architect for 40 years. Even when Durupt was not responsible for the designs himself, every planning application passed under his watchful eye. This rigorous approach kept ambitious developers – and their plans for high-rise blocks and oversized buildings – at bay, ensuring Méribel developed with the long term in mind. Buildings remained relatively modest in scale, designed in the spirit of large Alpine chalets and adapted to the valley’s fragmented plots of land. Development took place gradually, project by project, rather than through vast property schemes. Since 2005, the Méribel Label has carried this philosophy into the interiors of the resort’s accommodation. Focusing on welcoming design, quality materials and contemporary comfort, the initiative also provides regular inspections and guidance for property owners. More than 1,600 properties have been renovated in keeping with Méribel’s original spirit, combining modern standards with the aesthetic vision established by the resort’s pioneers.
What Is the Méribel Label?
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reated in 2005 for accommodation throughout the Allues Valley, the Méribel Label now covers 1,600 properties of all kinds, rated from one to four stars. More than a simple classification, the label is a mark of quality, recognising accommodation that meets specific standards for comfort, aesthetics and atmosphere. Natural materials such as wood and stone, alongside carefully considered finishes, help create the warm and welcoming mountain character at the heart of the label. Textiles, lighting, interior design, comfort and the overall consistency of the property are also taken into account. The result is accommodation that feels unmistakably Méribel: authentic in character, considered in design and comfortable for today’s guests. 21
Architectural style
What’s new A NEW CHAPTER FOR LAC BLEU WITH RISING STONE
CHALET MONTCLAIR: A NEW LUXURY ADDRESS
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ollowing L’Alba in 2026, Rising Stone is turning its attention to another Méribel landmark: Hôtel du Lac Bleu, which will be transformed into a sophisticated new residence combining contemporary luxury with traditional Alpine character. While L’Alba overlooks Méribel from the roundabout at the foot of the slopes, Lac Bleu enjoys a prime location at the foot of the Hulotte run and Morel chairlift. The luxury residence will feature 29 high-end apartments, ranging from two to five bedrooms, with generous, light-filled interiors. Residents will also have access to a spa designed to five-star hotel standards. Hotel-style services, a swimming pool and fitness centre complete the offering.
LES CHALETS D’OURÉA: AT HOME IN MOTTARET
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esigned to follow the natural contours of the mountainside, Les Chalets d’Ouréa is an intimate residence of just 14 apartments, each enjoying exceptional views across the valley and towards Méribel’s surrounding peaks. Set at 1,700 metres in Méribel-Mottaret, the residence cascades down the hillside in a series of terraces. Its architecture blends seamlessly into the mountain landscape, drawing on traditional local design and making extensive use of timber to create a warm, authentic Alpine feel.
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halet Montclair is the latest addition to Méribel’s collection of exceptional luxury chalets. Set on the edge of the forest on the Route de la Renarde, within Méribel Centre’s sought-after “golden triangle” between the slopes and the Altiport, this contemporary Alpine chalet offers generous, light-filled living spaces, six en-suite bedrooms and high-end amenities. Accommodating up to 12 guests, Chalet Montclair combines privacy and comfort with bespoke services in one of the resort’s most desirable locations.
Renovations HÔTEL LE SAVOY UNVEILS A FRESH NEW LOOK
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ust 50 metres from the Chaudanne slopes, the four-star Hôtel Le Savoy will reopen following a further phase of renovation. The transformation will introduce completely redesigned spaces, a more contemporary aesthetic and enhanced levels of comfort, bringing the hotel’s bedrooms, communal areas and spa in line with the stylish contemporary look already established in its restaurant.
CHALET PIERRE: A NEW CHAPTER
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urple Ski will reopen Chalet Pierre in December following the complete transformation of one of Méribel’s original chalets, which has welcomed guests since 1959. Carefully rebuilt while preserving its historic character, the new luxury chalet combines traditional Alpine charm with contemporary comfort. Spacious living areas frame beautiful mountain views, while a fully equipped spa and ski-in/ski-out access to the Altiport complete the experience. Accommodating up to 15 guests across eight suites, Chalet Pierre is available from €39,790 for seven nights, including catering, concierge services and gourmet cuisine. Owners Jean-Marie and Maryline Front say: “We are delighted to unveil Chalet Pierre following its complete transformation. This chalet holds a very special place in our family’s history, having welcomed guests to Méribel since 1959. Throughout the renovation, our aim has been to preserve the character and heritage of the original chalet whilst creating a warm and welcoming home offering every modern comfort. We are extremely proud of the result and look forward to sharing Chalet Pierre with visitors from all over the world.”
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Architectural style
“Preserving Méribel’s Architectural Heritage While Breathing New Life into Its Hotels”
STÉPHANE COUYOUMDJIAN DEPUTY COUNCILLOR AND PROJECT MANAGER
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éribel’s architecture has long been held up as a model for the Alpine “village resort”. Stéphane Couyoumdjian explains how the new municipal team intends to protect this architectural heritage, rethink future development and revitalise the resort’s hotel sector – while still leaving room for creativity and contemporary design.
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Three questions for Stéphane Couyoumdjian 1 How would you define the Méribel style – its val-
3 When considering planning applica-
ues, distinctive features and guiding principles?
tions, how do you balance hotels, serviced residences and other types of accommodation?
The Méribel style is rooted first and foremost in traditional Savoyard architecture: buildings on a human scale that sit naturally within their surroundings, particularly the forest that is so central to the identity of the Allues Valley. Mottaret is slightly different. Situated above the tree line, its buildings follow the slopes and contours of the mountainside rather than simply sitting at the foot of the pistes. This creates a more harmonious relationship between the built environment and the landscape. Ultimately, the Méribel style is about achieving a careful balance between the scale and proportions of buildings, the materials used and the surrounding landscape. Our guiding principle is to preserve that balance and avoid developments that disrupt it through excessive scale or architecture that feels disconnected from its setting.
2 Méribel’s architecture is regarded as an international example of the “village resort” model. How do you build on such a strong heritage? We are fortunate to be in an exceptional setting, at the heart of Les 3 Vallées, with a wooded valley and an architectural heritage that has become a benchmark for the “village resort” model. That heritage means we have to set ourselves extremely high standards when making planning decisions. In practical terms, we have begun an in-depth review of the Local Urban Development Plan (PLU). This process will take two to three years and is intended to refocus property development towards permanent housing and hotel accommodation that remains actively occupied. Our aim is to ensure that architecture serves the wider interests of the resort: buildings should remain on a human scale, integrate naturally into the landscape and make a genuine contribution to life in Méribel. That also means drawing a clear distinction between traditional hotels, serviced residences with a recognised operator and residential developments offering hotel-style services that may primarily be structured around tax advantages for investors. We want property development to play a meaningful role in Méribel’s longterm local strategy. That includes creating permanent homes and yearround accommodation for the people who live and work here.
The new council has made a clear commitment: planning permission should prioritise projects that create genuine “warm beds” – or, as our mayor Bernard Front likes to call them, “boiling beds” – accommodation that is actively occupied and contributes to the life of the resort. Over the past ten years, the number of hotels has fallen from around 20 to just 10. This affects not only Méribel’s accommodation capacity but also the diversity of its visitors and the strength of the local economy. Revitalising the hotel sector is therefore a key part of renewing the resort and maintaining its appeal. When assessing a planning application, we consider several factors: the true nature and long-term operation of the project, its architectural quality, how successfully it integrates into the landscape and the contribution it will make to Méribel’s economic and social fabric. We also want to maintain a healthy balance between different parts of the market rather than focusing exclusively on ultra-luxury development. Creating an accessible but high-quality three-star offering is also a priority. Developers will naturally tend towards the most lucrative, high-end projects. Our responsibility is to remind them that Méribel is, above all, a place where people live and work – not simply a property development opportunity.
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Alpin style
Black, Red, Blue, Green: Four Colours, Four Ways to Ski Méribel At the heart of Les 3 Vallées and its 600 km of pistes, Méribel makes the most of its central location with a ski area that combines easy connections, modern infrastructure and a few well-kept secrets. New digital information displays are making the mountains even easier to navigate. Interactive piste maps and screens at key locations provide skiers with essential real-time information, helping them plan their route and make the most of every day on the slopes.
Cruising the Greens and Blues
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éribel may have only around ten green runs, but its 28 blue pistes allow beginners and intermediate skiers to explore an impressive amount of the ski area. The resort is also home to some of the Tarentaise’s most beautiful forest skiing, both Alpine and cross-country. Near the Altiport, two themed green runs – Inuits and Animaux – turn skiing into an adventure for younger visitors, with playful, educational routes featuring information panels and sculptures along the way. Further down, Hulotte winds through the golf course, while Lapin descends all the way to Méribel Village, with the intimate feel of a small, family-friendly resort. On the opposite side of the valley, starting from the Roc de Fer, the red Daguet and Villages runs offer a spectacular 1,200-metre descent through the forest to Les Allues and the Olympe 1 gondola. Along the way, spruce and larch gradually give way to birch, ash and willow. For a gentler alternative, the blue Raffort piste winds down towards Olympe 2. For an altogether wilder experience, head to the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, where Swiss stone pines frame an unspoilt winter landscape. A marked ski route crosses the reserve, while supervised off-piste itineraries lead down from the Refuge du Saut and Aiguille du Fruit. Two cross-country loops, totalling 8 km, also connect Mottaret with the frozen, snow-covered Lac de Tuéda.
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Les 3 Vallées Made Easy for Beginners
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hanks to a network of blue pistes across its key connections, Méribel makes exploring Les 3 Vallées surprisingly accessible, even for less experienced skiers. From Courchevel, crossing via the Col de la Loze, skiers can take the easy-going Boulevard de la Loze towards a network of green and blue pistes, or opt for the more challenging Pic Bleu, which leads towards the top of the Altiport sector. From La Saulire, the wide and reassuring Biche blue piste offers a gentle descent before joining the lower section of Boulevard de la Loze. Heading towards Val Thorens, Lac de la Chambre provides an enjoyable blue connection, with its altitude and orientation helping to preserve good snow conditions. From Les Menuires, Crêtes followed by Faon leads towards the mid-station at Tougnète. From here, skiers can choose between Mottaret via the green Perdrix piste or La Chaudanne via Lièvre. And from Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, the legendary Roc de Fer provides the chance to follow the gentler sections of the course used during the 2023 World Championships.
Reds and Blacks: Step Up the Challenge
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t the summit of the Roc de Fer (2,294 m), a photo point, picnic area and hammocks provide the perfect excuse to stop and take in the extraordinary panorama. Views stretch across the Encombres and Belleville valleys, with Mont Blanc to the north, the Écrins to the south and the glaciers of the Vanoise to the east. From here, three pistes offer three different levels of challenge: Roc de Fer in blue, Daguet in red and La Face, a demanding black run that is particularly rewarding around midday, once the sun has softened the snow. Higher still, La Saulire (2,740 m) commands one of the finest panoramas in Les 3 Vallées, taking in the Aiguille du Fruit, Grande Casse, Polset Glacier and Cime de Caron. This is also where experienced skiers will find the legendary Tournier couloir. Officially secured but left ungroomed for a true off-piste feel, this challenging black run begins with a 38-degree gradient and demands both confidence and technical ability. Further down, in the Pas du Lac sector, S3V is continuing to enhance three of Méribel’s exhilarating red pistes – Marcassin, Mauduit and Niverolle. Niverolle is being remodelled and equipped with additional snowmaking facilities. Then there is Mont Vallon (2,952 m), the highest point in Méribel’s ski area. With sweeping views towards the Gébroulaz Glacier, Grande Casse and Aiguilles du Borgne, it offers a true taste of the high mountains of the Vanoise. Two challenging pistes descend from the summit, including the Combe du Mont Vallon: a thrilling 3 km run of rolling terrain and steep sections, at its best first thing in the morning when freshly groomed. 27
Alpin style
More Than €10 Million Invested in the Ski Area News
S3V - €6.11 MILLION
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éribel continues to invest significantly in its ski area for winter 2026/27, with major projects from both Méribel Alpina and S3V designed to improve snow reliability, lift infrastructure, piste quality and the overall skier experience. ▶ Snow Park - €110,000: The Snow Park is undergoing a complete overhaul of its signage and theming, with a new visual identity. ▶ Pas du Lac sector - €4.15 million: Improvement works are continuing on the two red pistes – Marcassin and Niverolle – with Niverolle being remodelled and equipped with additional snowmaking facilities.
▶ Julie piste - €55,000: Further improvements to the Julie piste. ▶ Châtelet chairlift - €1.7 million: The Châtelet chairlift, which was damaged by an avalanche, will be brought back into service. ▶ Dynamic information - €70,000: The ski area’s real-time information system is being enhanced with new digital information equipment installed at strategic locations. ▶ Plattières gondola - €25,000: The Plattières gondola is being given a new themed design in collaboration with artist Lucas Beaufort.
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MÉRIBEL ALPINA - €4.75 MILLION
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éribel Alpina, which operates the lower section of the ski area, is investing across three key projects:
▶ La Truite snowmaking - €3 million: A major upgrade to the snowmaking network along the entire La Truite piste, an important link between Méribel-Mottaret and Méribel. More efficient, energy-saving snow guns will be installed, alongside a refurbished water intake designed to better respect the watercourse’s natural hydrological cycle. ▶ La Chaudanne - €450,000: Further improvements to the Chaudanne plateau, building on work initiated for the 2023 World Championships. New facilities will include a family-friendly toilet block and outdoor skipass machines. ▶ Rhodos gondola - €1.3 million: Completion of the major refurbishment programme that began in 2025. Following improvements to the departure and intermediate stations, new machinery and replacement cabins, the final phase will see the arrival station fully renovated.
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Freestyle & freeride
Snowparks, Freeride and Secured Off-Piste: Ski with a Free Spirit Freestyle Gets a Fresh New Look
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éribel’s Snow Park has been given a complete refresh, with a redesigned layout, new signage and a fresh visual identity coordinated by S3V. Features are clearly divided by ability level, making it easier for everyone from first-time freestylers to experienced riders to find the right challenge.
▶ SNOW PARK - ROOKIES: Designed with beginners in mind, the Rookies zone is the perfect place to discover freestyle in a fun, reassuring environment. Try short, wide boxes, take on small jumps or practise in the mini half-pipe. A dedicated progression line gives intermediate riders the chance to build confidence and take their skills to the next level. ▶ SNOW PARK - PRO: For experienced riders, the Pro zone steps things up with a series of big-air jumps and rails arranged in a slopestyle format. Known for its varied and creative features, as well as lines that evolve throughout the season, the Snow Park offers plenty of scope to push your limits and keep progressing. ▶ Take Five at the Relaxation Chalet: Need a break between runs? Head to the Relaxation Chalet, where music, sun loungers, free Wi-Fi and table football provide the perfect excuse to slow down. Better still, the terrace offers a front-row seat to the action as riders practise their tricks in the Snow Park. Access: Plattières gondola, followed by the Châtelet chairlift. ▶ BUMP ’N’ JUMP - Freestyle for Everyone: The Bump ’N’ Jump zone offers three playful courses designed to introduce skiers to different sensations: Bumpy Run, with a succession of bumps; Speedy Run, featuring a series of banked turns; and Funny Run, an introduction to slopestyle with arches, mini-boxes and other fun features. Nearby on Combes 1, families and younger skiers can also discover the Little Himalaya fun run in Yeti Park. 30
Off-Piste Adventures for Every Level
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eyond the marked pistes, Méribel offers plenty for experienced skiers looking to explore the wilder side of the mountains. Accompanied by a professional mountain guide, confident skiers can take on the Aiguille du Fruit, crossing the Creux Noirs ridge before embarking on a long, sustained descent towards the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, where a marked route leads through the protected landscape. For a taste of freeride without venturing into completely uncontrolled terrain, the Tournier couloir (see above) offers an exhilarating descent on ungroomed snow within a secured area. Its steep gradient and natural terrain provide a serious challenge for accomplished skiers. When visibility is poor higher up the mountain, the forests of the lower Allues Valley offer an appealing alternative. Numerous itineraries from the Olympic Express chairlift descend through the trees towards the Olympe 1 and 2 gondolas. On guided ski-touring outings, adventurous skiers can also climb towards the Col de Jean before descending through this quiet, increasingly wild mountainside.
Beginners: Learn at Your Own Pace
Freeride from Valley to Summit
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he joy of skiing shouldn’t have to wait until you have years of experience behind you. Méribel has created dedicated areas where beginners and families can learn, practise and build confidence at their own pace.
or a true backcountry experience, the climb to the Col du Borgne (3,039 m) follows a relatively gentle route between Mont Vallon and Val Thorens.From the pass, spectacular views open out towards the Maurienne Valley. The broad, wild descent offers the chance to seek out the best snow according to the time of day, altitude and orientation of the slope. For those who prefer the challenge of the climb followed by the reassurance of a descent on marked pistes, Méribel also offers two secured ski-touring routes:
From the sunny Altiport area and its themed Inuits piste to Yeti Park and the playful Little Himalaya run, specially designed zones make those first turns both fun and reassuring. Facilities are designed to encourage natural progression, while dedicated options such as the Mini Pass provide access to the easiest green and blue pistes. It all adds up to a relaxed introduction to skiing, surrounded by some of Méribel’s most beautiful mountain scenery.
▶ New this winter: discover a new dedicated 2.8 km ski touring route with 545 m of elevation gain, starting from the Mottaret snow front and finishing at the intermediate station of the Pas du Lac gondola. For the descent, you can choose either the Aigle piste or the Pas du Lac gondola. ▶ Pic Bleu : Starting from Méribel Village, this three-stage route covers 5.5 km with 600 metres of ascent, climbing through the Altiport forest.
News Itinemap SMARTER SKIING WITH THE LES 3 VALLÉES APP
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orget skiing at random. With Itinemap, the new smart feature on the Les 3 Vallées mobile app, exploring the world’s largest interconnected ski area is easier than ever. Combining highly accurate interactive mapping with intelligent route planning, Itinemap suggests itineraries tailored to each skier’s profile. Recommendations adapt in real time according to piste and lift openings, current ski-area conditions and skiing ability. Whether you’re heading to a mountain restaurant, meeting friends or family at a particular spot, looking for the best way into another part of the ski area or simply keen to discover somewhere new, Itinemap helps you get there with ease. The result is a smoother, more relaxed and more personalised way to explore Les 3 Vallées.
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Plates brimming with style
Savour Méribel’s Bistronomy and Michelin-Starred Cuisine Méribel’s celebrated art de vivre is perhaps best experienced through its vibrant culinary scene, where traditional Savoyard flavours meet contemporary creativity. From relaxed mountain bistros to refined Michelin-starred dining, innovative chefs champion quality local ingredients across the resort. Whether dining in the heart of the village or high on the slopes, memorable gastronomy is never far away.
On the terrace
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he dining experience opens up to the landscape around the Altiport, at Le Blanchot as well as at Le Clos Bernard, where you can enjoy delicious Savoyard cocotte. At Maya Altitude (Les Crêtes, on the Tougnète side), at Le Plan des Mains (at the foot of Mont Vallon) or at La Fruitière’s Folie Douce branch (La Saulire), the terraces are an integral part of the experience. The dining experience is more low-key and authentic at La Traye, at the end of a 5 km walk. Meanwhile, Le Tipi invites you to stop off in the middle of the Aigle run, with views over the village of Méribel Mottaret. As for Chalet Tonia, nestled at the top of the Combes chairlift (Mottaret – pedestrian access), it offers not only a restaurant, a snack bar and a bar, but also a concept store where you can pick up a decorative item. Finally, we must mention La Terrasse de Méribel Village, a very welcoming brasserie that also knows how to make après-ski a festive occasion.
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EXCELLENCE
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n keeping with its lifestyle, reputation and character, Méribel favours restaurants that strive for excellence. This is certainly true of La Vache Rouge in Méribel Centre, an elegant and cosy establishment renowned for its ‘land and sea’ pairing, combining exceptional matured meats with seafood. Another fine example in this delightful culinary symphony is La Coursive des Alpes (which has taken over the former cinema in Méribel Centre), under the guidance of the talented Laurent Hillairet.
TRANSALPINE
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he recipes at Fifi’s preserve a transalpine culinary tradition whose apparent simplicity belies a high level of craftsmanship, great finesse and genuine Italian originality.
AUTHENTIC
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ome establishments passionately uphold a tasteful sense of authenticity, such as the Adray Télébar, run by Fabrice Bonnet and his family, where locals and seasonal workers take centre stage. It’s much the same at Lilie, named after Sylvain Chardonnet’s grandmother, who swears by tradition.
MICHELIN-STARRED
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any hotels run their own highend dining venues, such as L’Ekrin at the Kaïla, Méribel’s only Michelin-starred restaurant. Similarly, at the Hôtel La Chaudanne, Le 80 pays homage to the very best of brasserie cuisine.
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Plates brimming with style
Discover Méribel’s Newest Dining Hotspots News NOMAD
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nd then there are the major new arrivals. Just a five-minute walk from La Chaudanne, taking over the former Premières Loges site after Tipi, this new venue from La Belle Histoire Groupe is set to attract a wide-ranging crowd. The concept evolves throughout the day, from breakfast until late into the night: a relaxed yet high-quality lunch; après-ski from 5pm with a DJ, live entertainment and cocktails; followed by a lively dinner where, by dessert, guests are encouraged to leave their seats and hit the dance floor. From 9pm, the DJ takes over again, starting with a laid-back atmosphere before gradually turning up the tempo as the night shifts into full party mode. The promise is simple: in Méribel, this is where the night ends.
ALTO MÉRIBEL
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n the road of Mussillon, discover Alto. In love with Méribel and the mountains for several years, Thomas and Katia decided to leave Paris to settle in the region and open Alto Meribel. A name that refers to the altitude, but also to the tone, since the music accompanies the whole evening. Upstairs, we start with a drink at the bar and a few plates to share with a piano-voice, before going down to the restaurant where guitar-voice and traditional French cuisine with Savoyard influences meet. Later, the DJ takes over in a disco-funk atmosphere, with a few bright tiles, to extend the evening until the end of the night.
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CHEZ VOUS
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eading up towards the Altiport sector, after having been part of Méribel’s story under the name CroMagnon, the establishment is writing a new chapter in its history and becoming Chez Vous: a place designed like a home, where people enjoy coming together.
LA CUCUCINA
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p on the slopes, La Cucucina brings an Italian-inspired offering to La Folie Douce, with chef Arnaud Nicolas serving signature dishes including cacio e pepe and blue lobster linguine.
Here, family spirit lies at the heart of the experience: generous dishes to share, cuisine inspired by home-style recipes and warm décor, punctuated by family photos of managers Julie Meyer and Richard Lett, as well as chef Brizelle. And every week, a new “tart of the week” tells another piece of the family story.
MAISON LAPIAZ
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eanwhile, in Mottaret, la Spatule is making way for Maison Lapiaz, curated by Isaac Fleury and with flavours crafted by Antoine Jourdy: on the menu, homemade ‘bistronomy’ open to global influences, bridging the gap between the sea and the mountains, available as street food or takeaway at lunchtime, or as a convivial meal to share in the evening.
L’ALPAGE DU MOTTARET
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new chapter begins: Les Rôtisseurs du Mottaret is making way for L’Alpage du Mottaret! The same team, the same passion, and a return to Aurore and Charles-Erik’s roots: traditional mountain specialities. Fondues, raclettes, pierrade and Chapeau Tatar are back at the heart of the table, featuring carefully selected products from local producers. Join us every evening at the foot of the slopes and rediscover this historic Mottaret establishment. 35
Plates brimming with style
Le Lilie: a legacy
SYLVAIN CHARDONNET LILIE OWNER
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ilie, is at once a bar, a bistro, a wine cellar and a delicatessen, all housed within a large chalet at the Rond-Point-des-Pistes. Formerly known as the Bistrot de l’Orée, it was taken over by Hélène and Sylvain Chardonnet. But Lilie is, above all, a family story, paying tribute to Sylvain’s grandmother. lilie-meribel.com
Lilie, in fact. At 98, she is the village’s oldest resident. From her, Sylvain inherited a taste for the cuisine of yesteryear. Hence his credo: “We must never forget the foundations of French culinary tradition.” Whether in the cities or the mountains. Sylvain has opted for ‘bistronomy’, his ideal vision of the pleasures of the table… “In our work, our primary aim must be to delight our customers. If we offer traditional recipes, this means preparing them with high-quality ingredients. A tartiflette, but with farmhouse Reblochon and potatoes prepared by us. A fondue, but with a blend of carefully selected cheeses. The source of our ingredients is fundamental. That’s why we use local produce as well as having fresh produce delivered daily, six days a week, from Rungis or from butchers renowned for the exceptional quality of their meat. That’s what makes the difference… just like everything else we offer in our shop – jams, honeys, cakes, wild garlic, génépi, and so on – all Savoyard and organic.” Tradition alone isn’t enough: you also have to make it your own… “So, we’re putting our own spin on traditional French bistro cuisine. A recipe evolves depending on the ingredients and our mood, like these snails with ground almonds and pastis. Or these Savoie diots made with brioche dough, in the style of Lyon sausage. Or this sole meunière served with mashed potatoes just as Lilie used to make it… We adapt day by day, just as we do with our customers.” Because at Lilie’s, the clientele is a mixed bunch and the prices are carefully considered… “Starting with the wine cellar, where a bottle from a little-known small producer sits alongside a renowned grand cru classé. We aim to provide enjoyment tailored to everyone’s means, because there’s no question of becoming exclusive,” concludes Sylvain Chardonnet. Quality, discretion, accessibility, authenticity, innovation… just like Méribel itself.
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Where can you find an extensive selection of wines?
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hilst most of Méribel’s fine restaurants offer rich and enticing wine lists, others have made it their speciality. Among them…
▶ The aptly named L’Abreuvoir in Méribel Centre. ▶ Vins Dieux – a lovely name for this unique wine bar and restaurant concept, which opened last winter in Méribel Centre and boasts a selection of 350 wines that evolves as new discoveries are made. ▶ Also in Méribel Centre, the cellar at L’Ekrin (Le Kaïla hotel), the resort’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, houses around 1,500 wines depending on the season, including nearly a hundred champagnes alone. As such, it is the largest cellar in the 3 Vallées.
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Sport and style
Outdoor space and indoor wellbeing The altiport and its surrounding forest reveal further outdoor potential: hiking, cross-country skiing, fresh air. As a counterpoint, inner wellbeing extends the experience.
Outdoors ▶ Along walk through the forest. Accessible from both the Altiport and Méribel Village, a superb, well-maintained trail winds its way through the forest, following the contours of the land. Here, far from the slopes, all is calm. At the Altiport, the trail crosses the beautiful open spaces that serve as a golf course in summer and opens out into the sunshine, with views stretching far across the valley. Further down, the conifers give way to deciduous trees, revealing the sky once more. ▶ A cross-country skiing trip. Various routes wind through the forest from the Altiport and Méribel Village. For experienced cross-country skiers, one trail links the Altiport to the resort of La Tania, whilst another extends even further to Courchevel 1850, covering 15 km there and back. Alternatively, you might prefer the Plantin loop (10 km) between Méribel Village and the Altiport. Please note that these trails are free to access. ▶ A frozen lake in the mountains. The Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve offers a chance to get completely away from the downhill ski area. Around the lake, a cross-country skiing and running track, a snowshoe route and a nature trail have been marked out. Not to mention the Buvette de Tuéda for some refreshments. To reach the site, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Châtelet neighbourhood (Mottaret) along an easy path.
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Practical Information
Practical Information Getting to Méribel BY TRAIN Moûtiers – Salins – Brides-les-Bains railway station, served by TGV high-speed trains, TER regional services and international rail connections.
Wellbeing
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he need to recharge your batteries really comes into its own in Méribel, far from the slopes or the resort’s nightlife. Various spas, featuring the most renowned cosmetics brands, are scattered throughout the residences, hotels and even at the Parc Olympique, which boasts a 350 m² Pure Altitude spa.
Address book ▶ L’Alpen Ruitor with Dermatologica ▶ Le Kaïla and La Chaudanne with Nuxe ▶ L’Hélios with Phytomer ▶ Le Grand Cœur with Valmont ▶ L’Hévana with Deep Nature ▶ Le Coucou with Tata Harper The largest centre is at L’Antarès, which develops its own oils and offers 800 m² dedicated to caring for the mind, body and diet.
BY SHUTTLE OR TAXI Regular shuttle services and taxis are available to the resort. BY CAR Take the A43 motorway to Albertville, followed by the N90 to Moûtiers, then continue along the mountain road to Méribel. BY AIR The nearest airports are Chambéry (1 hr 30 mins), Geneva (2 hrs) and Lyon Saint-Exupéry (2 hrs 15 mins). Transfers and car hire are available.
Press Information
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he Méribel Tourisme and Blackdiamond teams are available to organise press trips, respond to specific requests and suggest tailored story angles.
▶ Introductions to local experts and professionals can be arranged (mountain guides, ski patrollers, restaurateurs, architects, etc.) ▶ Bespoke press trips can be organised on request ▶ Access to exclusive content (interviews, itineraries and profiles)
At the Médispa, housed in the La Traye mountain retreat, you can enjoy the Iyashi Dome (Japanese sauna), the Mostleds (photobiomodulation), a milk bath or a warm hay bed.
Contacts
Find our selection of spas at meribel.net/bien-etre
HARRIET BALL PR Account Director, harriet@blackdiamond.co.uk | +44 7853 186 303 HARRIS CLARK Senior PR Account Executive hclark@blackdiamond.co.uk | +44 7899 634 331
MARIE DOHIN communication@meribel.net | 06 48 41 82 90 LUCIE MARQUAT projets.com@meribel.net | 07 60 49 43 71 39
Winter 2026–27 | Press Kit