Meribel Valley
France
Europe
​Méribel
​Brides-les-bains
Les Allues
Le Raffort
Km piste | Min Height (m) | Max Height (m) |
---|---|---|
80 |
Sub Area | Multi-Area Collection |
---|---|
Yes | No |
Description
Meribel Valley is a renowned ski area situated in the heart of the French Alps. It forms part of the expansive Three Valleys ski domain, which is the largest interconnected ski area in the world.
With its picturesque alpine setting and excellent skiing opportunities, Meribel Valley attracts skiers of all levels.
The history of Meribel Valley dates back to the 1930s when development was started by British Colonel Peter Lindsay. Unlike many purpose-built ski resorts, Meribel Valley was developed as a traditional village, blending harmoniously with its natural surroundings. The architecture mostly features charming wooden chalets and stone buildings, adding to its authentic appeal.
When you look at the piste map, you'll see that "Meribel" can mean any of a multitude of settlements. There's a chain of key hubs that are connected by a series of Gondolas down the valley - It starts at the bottom of the valley in Brides les Bains (a great value alternative gateway to the 3 valleys) moving up through Les Allues, Le Raffort and La Chaudanne, from which you then get into access to the ski area. There's also Meribel Village, Centre, Le Hameau and Mottaret which are not on the Gondola chain, but have direct access to the ski area.
Meribel Valley is well-suited for a wide range of skiers. Beginners can take advantage of the excellent ski schools and gentle slopes, while intermediate skiers have a vast selection of blue and red runs to explore. Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the more demanding terrain, including black runs and off-piste routes. The ski area also caters to freestyle enthusiasts, with dedicated snow parks and halfpipes. Either way you have it all when connected to the Three Valleys.
Which resort is for you?
Les Allues, Le Raffort, and La Chaudanne:
These three resorts are located in the lower part of the Meribel valley. Les Allues is the main village, Le Raffort is a traditional mountain village, and La Chaudanne is the central hub where the ski lifts converge. These resorts offer a charming, authentic Alpine atmosphere with easy access to the slopes. They are ideal for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed setting away from the bustling crowds.
Meribel Village:
Situated at the entrance of the Meribel valley, Meribel Village is a picturesque and tranquil resort with traditional Savoyard architecture. It offers easy ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes and has its own small range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and bars. Meribel Village is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is a popular choice for those seeking a laid-back skiing experience.
Meribel Centre:
As the heart of the Meribel valley, Meribel Centre is a bustling resort with a wide range of facilities and activities. It has a vibrant après-ski scene, numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a lively and popular choice for visitors. Meribel Centre provides excellent access to the slopes, with multiple lifts connecting to various ski areas. It offers a good mix of skiing, entertainment, and convenience.
Le Hameau:
Situated on the outskirts of Meribel Centre, Le Hameau is a quieter and more secluded resort. It features a collection of chalets and apartments nestled in a forested area, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting. Le Hameau provides direct access to the slopes and has its own amenities, including shops and restaurants. It is an excellent option for those seeking a serene mountain retreat with easy access to the ski area.It is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders who are looking for a luxurious ski vacation.
Meribel Mottaret:
Located at a higher altitude, Meribel Mottaret offers convenient access to the vast Three Valleys ski area. It is a purpose-built resort with ski-in/ski-out accommodations and a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and bars. Meribel Mottaret is known for its excellent snow conditions and panoramic views. It appeals to both beginners and advanced skiers, with a good variety of slopes catering to different skill levels.
Related Areas
Pass prices
Piste Map
Transfer details
(Airports, trains, shared options)
Resort information
Local tips
Accommodation recommendations
Ski Pass
6 day pass | Euro / km |
---|---|
305 | 3.81 |
Meribel caters to beginners REALLY well. The Meribel valley pass in itself is terrible value, but the Meribel Mini pass is a great option. For 35 euro a day. you get access to a curated selection of Greens and Blues, including the Olympic Gondola all the way from Brides les Bains.
Are there any free ski lifts?
Meribel: Loupiot, Cotes drag lift, Altiport drag and Fontany telecord.
Mottaret: Le Doron draglift, Ourson Telecorde and Chalets gondola
Access
Transfers
Direct Train | Train + Bus Option | Direct coach |
---|---|---|
No | Yes | Yes |
Train Connections
Moutiers
Train to Moûtiers
1hr 15 - Chambéry
2hr - Grenoble (change in Chambery)
3hr - Lyon (1 change)
3.5hr - Geneva (2 changes)
4hr 30 - Paris (Direct)
The easiest way to plan train travel is use The Trainline (click the logo below)
This is because it's the most comprehensive integration of all European train operators, so you can even plan cross-border travel.
On average you can book 3-4 months in advance, read our full Guide to European Rail travel
Book with
Coach Connections
There's multiple options for Coaches to the Meribel Valley
Private Ski transfer companies
Geneva, Grenoble or Lyon
Saturdays and Sundays
9th December 2023 – 13th April 2024
Schedual depends on Flight arrivals
£70-83pp return
Check the site for the drop off locations based on which airport you're coming from (ie. Moutiers or which Meribel village inc. Brides les bains)
Geneva Airport
Saturdays and Sundays
15th December to 15th April
Stops in Les Allues , Meribel Village, Meribel Centre, Mottaret
Average 55 euro each way
Geneva Airport to Moutiers
Saturdays
Timetable around flights
£87 return
Altibus Services
Use Altibus to book travel from Lyon or Geneva
2hrs to Moutiers from either airport
Mid Dec to Early April
Aprox 110 Euro return (all the way to resort)
Geneva
Everyday
Only one afternoon departure Weekdays & Sunday
More departure times on Saturday.
Lyon (LYS'Express line)
Only Friday / Saturdays / Sundays
1 departure Friday / Sun
3 Saturdays
Then you'll connect to another bus in (inc on timetables & ticket)
Timetables here: Scroll down to your departure point
Moutiers Coach Station is 17 km from Meribel and the transfer time is about 45 minutes to Les Allues
Timetables here: scroll down to Moutiers
Operates every day
Multiple stops in resort
Aprox 20 euro return (on its own)
If your shared transfer drops you in the middle of the resort and you can't walk, use the Inter-resort shuttle or grab a local taxi