France
Savoie, France
The heart of the 3 Vallées — Méribel sits in the middle of the world's largest ski area, giving you the most direct access to Courchevel, Val Thorens and Les Menuires from a single base. Tree-lined runs, sunny southerly aspect, and a lively village.
Blue runs (2) tap a name to zoom in on map
Loze chairlift or Tougnète gondola
BD de Loze (Boulevard de la Loze) runs beneath the Col de la Loze — the high ridge at 2,304m that connects Méribel with Courchevel. The Loze chairlift or Tougnète gondola gets you up to the mid-mountain area. The run is tree-lined for much of its length, making it an excellent option in poor visibility or wind.
One of the most popular blues in Méribel — long, flowing, tree-lined. The forest section keeps the snow quality good even in warm weather. A classic intermediate cruise that you can lap comfortably all morning.
Tougnète gondola or Altiport chairlift
Marmotte (named after the Alpine marmot) runs through the sunny mid-mountain plateau above Méribel village. The Tougnète gondola from Méribel centre takes you up to the start. Wide, open terrain with classic 3 Vallées views. Named after the alpine marmot — you may actually spot them popping out of the snow in spring from late March onwards.
A very relaxed, wide blue with the gentle pitch that makes it perfect for finding your rhythm. The sunny aspect means it warms up nicely from mid-morning. One of the runs locals point beginners toward on their first day in Méribel.
The destination
Méribel is more charming than the purpose-built resorts in the 3 Vallées — it was developed by a British officer after World War II with strict rules on chalet-style architecture, so it looks like a proper Alpine village rather than a collection of concrete blocks. The resort runs from Méribel Village at 1,450m up to Méribel-Mottaret at 1,750m. Mottaret is more convenient for skiing; Village is more characterful.
Chalet-style village · British-friendly · Central 3 Vallées access · Lively après
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