At the heart of the vast 3 Valleys ski domain, Meribel is a firm favourite for all. This is not only because you can ski in a number of top resorts including Europe's highest, Val Thorens, or the luxe resort of Courchevel but it attracts a wide range of visitors from families, couples, groups of friends, experienced skiers, beginners. The list could go on! But Meribel is also an excellent resort for non skiers, with so many activities to do and places to see, it will be sure to keep everyone visitor occupied whether on or off the slopes.
Here's our top 10 things to do to give you some inspiration for your next ski holiday!
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1. Take a pilot tour over the Alps
Take a ride in a small aircraft over the Alps and take in stunning mountain views. The air strip is located in Meribel Altiport and there are 4 tours to choose from – glimpse of The Three Valleys, heart of the Alps, Mont Blanc, Mont Blanc and Annecy Lake. This a perfect trip for a couple or for the family to have an epic experience above the mountains.
Photo: merinet.com
2. Ski the Grand Coulior
For experienced skiers, this black run is known as the scariest in the area and in the world! It is actually located in Courchevel 1850 but can be accessed at the top of the Saulire gondola. The beginning of the piste is narrow and steep at an 85% descent and widens further down, developing into an intense mogul field throughout the 900 metres slope. Many struggle with the initial drop-in point as the ridge path to the piste is notoriously icy with steep drops either side of it. This one is definitely not one for the faint hearted!
3. Après ski at La Folie Douce
This is Meribel’s most popular après ski spot. Expect cabaret performers, swaying saxophonists, booming music and a lot of skiers dancing on the tables. Located at the Saulire Express mid station, the bar and restaurant benefits from a wide open terrace with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains which is bliss during the spring when the sun is out and there are no clouds in the sky. There are also no worries of getting the last lift, as if you’re staying in Meribel, you can ski (probably precariously) directly into La Chaudanne.
Photo: La Folie Douce Meribel Courchevel Facebook
4. Visit The Olympic Centre
Built for the Winter Olympics in 1992, it offers a 25m indoor swimming pool, children’s pool, water slides, climbing wall, fitness centre, an indoor ice rink plus a bowling alley with an arcade, pool tables and a bar. Tuesdays and Thursdays is a fluorescent night where the bowling alleys lights are dimmed, the music is cranked up and the alley glows in the dark. The Parc Meribel Olympique Centre is perfect for non-skiers and for families and a great hub for a variety of activities.
Photo: merinet.com
5. Ski The 3 Valleys Escapade
Back in 2006, two ski enthusiasts created an ambitious adventure, where skiers are challenged to ski the whole of The Three Valleys domain in one day. It starts at La Tania’s lowest lift and from there follow each marker in the circuit which includes 35 lifts! Be prepared for sore legs, lunch on the piste and an early start! Alternatively, if you’re looking for a less extreme circuit and something light-hearted, the Selfies in a Day challenge has 6 selfie checkpoints across The Three Valleys which are equipped with weatherproof cameras to get that perfect snap.
Photo: latania.co.uk
6. Ride through scenic routes on horseback
The Coeur Équestre des 3 Vallées offers children’s pony sledging, horseback riding and skijoring, the latter being an ancestral activity in which you ski down mountain paths pulled by a horse. The centre is open all year round to provide a tranquil experience with your little one or in a group through the mountains.
Photo: coeurequestremeribel.com
7. Experience The 3 Valleys from a hot air balloon
Departing from Courchevel Altiport, this a unique experience to view the resort and the pilot will point out key attractions in and around Meribel. Book for an occasion, or for a romantic retreat through the valley with some bubbly breakfast, because why not?
Photo: meribelhelicopters.co.uk
8. Ride a fat bike
Cycling doesn’t need to be restricted to summer in Meribel! Fat biking allows you to enjoy the adventures of cycling but on snow due to the bikes wide tires. Tours come with safety equipment and a guide starting off at La Chaudanne in the resort centre.
Photo: merinet.com
9. Go snowshoeing
Meribel is a great place to go snowshoeing thanks to its picturesque views, quaint scattered chalets and forested trails. It not only is great for non-skiers during the day, but it offers them to meet up with the rest of the group or family for lunch at a restaurant up the mountain. Visitors can also book snowshoeing guides that are tailored to the visitor’s needs.
Photo: merinet.com
10. Hit up DC Area 43
The biggest and arguably the best in the area and arguably in Europe, DC Area 43 park has a wide range of options from freestyle novices to park rats. Featuring small jumps, kickers, boxes, rails, tables and even a halfpipe!
Watch how the pros do it below!
