Meribel

Meribel is in the perfect position to act as a base to explore the immense ski area, boasting more than 600km of beautifully manicured pistes. The Meribel ski area feels like a two headed best, first is the area above Meribel itself that heads toward Courchevel via the mighty Saulire peak. The other side is above Mottaret which is another resort in the Meribel valley towards the high altitude skiing of Val Thorens. Regardless of the area you choose, Meribel offers an intermediates paradise with a vast choice of blue and red pistes.

Beginners:

Just above Meribel itself are two pistes that offer beginners the perfect terrain in which to take their first foray into winter sports. The Rhodos and the Foret, both sweep between the pine trees down but perhaps the jewel in the crown is the Altiport area above Meribel Village, a smaller village 4km outside of Meribel itself. The runs here are majestic and should be the first port of call for beginners looking for the next step above the nursery slopes. That said, even the most experienced skier or boarder cannot pretend they don’t enjoy the sweeping runs through the trees that the Altiport area is justifiably famous for.

Intermediates:

The entire ski area lends itself perfectly to the intermediate thanks to a huge choice of blue and red runs. Highlights include the runs down from the imperious Mont Vallon, a huge vertical drop which will burn even the most physically fittest of legs.

Experts:

In terms of pistes, precious little in the Meribel valley itself, most skiers looking for steep and challenging terrain will head to either Courchevel or Val Thorens. That said, the off piste is probably better in Meribel than the other 2 valleys. Meribel also offers 2 world class snow parks, the Moon Park above Meribel and the Area 43 above Mottaret.

Meribel is one of the best resorts in France for lively après-ski and varied nightlife. In terms of après, there are two main spots. The oldest and still most popular is the Rond-Point (or “Ronny” to the locals) après-ski bar, situated on the piste at the top of the village. This is a great spot for live music and a few pitchers of beer amongst friends. The second après-ski bar is the new Folie Douce. A more glitzy affair than the Ronny, glasses of champagne and pumping house music is the order of the day here. The bar is a fair distance from the town but if you overdo it then fear not, there is a gondola just above the bar to whisk you back down to town.

If you are planning on heading into town for a few drinks after dinner, Meribel has lots of options. La Taverne is a popular hangout and a little more tranquil than the other bars on offer. For something a little livelier, try Jakks bar, Barometer or the imaginatively titled Le Pub.

The Development Centre: www.tdcski.com

New Generation: www.skinewgen.com

Magic in Motion: www.magic-meribel.com

Parallel Lines: www.parallel-lines.com