Undoubtedly the prettiest ski resort in the 3 Vallées, Méribel was founded by an Englishman in 1938 and has remained a firm favourite amongst British skiers over the years. The resort has been sensitively developed with most of the chalet-style buildings made from local wood, stone and slate. Although now a large and cosmopolitan resort, Méribel retains a friendly and alpine atmosphere.
Its prime location in the midst of the 3 Vallées and recent huge investments in the lift system makes it a convenient base to explore the furthest reaches of this extensive ski area. The varied skiing both in Méribel and further afield make this an excellent choice for all levels of skiers. Intermediates will be satisfied by the blues and reds around Tougnète and Saulire before covering the many miles of intermediate pistes the 3 Vallées has to offer and experts should head for the long runs and off-piste on the spectacular Mont du Vallon. The nursery slopes at the Altiport and the gentle runs back from the Platière gondola are excellent places for beginners to start from and snowboarders are also well catered for with two board parks.
The après ski is lively with an abundance of bars and a good selection of restaurants. For those seeking a quieter holiday, Méribel has a twice weekly market, an Olympic sized swimming pool and ice rink. Sight-seeing trips in light aircraft, parapenting, skidooing or snowshoe excursions can also be easily arranged.
