What to do in Méribel? The Top 16 Winter and Summer Activities
In the heart of the 3 Vallées, Méribel is an emblematic resort of the French Alps, renowned both for its skiing in a grand and unspoiled setting and for the wealth of activities to enjoy with family or friends. Skiing, dog sledding, hiking, cycling, spa and relaxation, or gastronomy, both summer and winter offer their share of unforgettable experiences in Méribel.
To enjoy an exceptional moment in the mountains, Le Mont Vallon gives you the top 16 activities to do in Méribel, whether in winter or summer, as a couple, with family, or with friends.
- What are the best winter activities in Méribel ?
- What to do in Méribel when you don’t ski ?
- What are the best summer activities in Méribel?
- What are the best things to do as a couple in Méribel?
- What are the best things to do as a family in Méribel?
- Plan your stay in Méribel
- Weekend ideas in Méribel
- Where to stay in Méribel during your trip
- FAQ
What Are the Best Winter Activities in Méribell ?
Skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, Méribel offers countless ways to experience the mountains and enjoy the snow in all its forms. Right in the heart of the 3 Vallées, Méribel is the perfect destination for winter sports lovers and anyone seeking breathtaking alpine views.
1. Ski in the World’s Largest Ski Area
Méribel is part of the legendary 3 Vallées ski area, the largest in the world, with more than 600 km of interconnected slopes spanning Courchevel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens. This vast playground attracts both skiers and snowboarders with its diverse landscapes and terrain suited to all levels. Whatever type of slope you’re looking for, Méribel guarantees the best sensations on snow.
Beginners can enjoy gentle slopes around the Altiport area, with green runs like Blanchot or Forêt, ideal for learning to ski with confidence. Advanced skiers can test their skills on the red Combe du Vallon run, or head toward the Saulire to reach Courchevel through more challenging, sportier descents.
For snowboarders and freestyle enthusiasts, Méribel is home to one of the best snowparks in the Alps, DC Area 43, completely redesigned every season. With modules, jumps, rails, boardercross, and fun zones for all levels (from beginner to expert), it’s a vibrant and friendly place that often hosts competitions and events throughout the winter.
Practical Information :
- Where: Direct access from Méribel Centre or Mottaret, with connections to Courchevel and Val Thorens.
- Budget: Day pass from €72 (3 Vallées); equipment rental from €35 per day.
- Good to know: Le Mont Vallon peaks at over 2,950 metres, offering a unique panoramic view over the entire valley.
2. Original Sliding Activities in Méribel
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Méribel offers a multitude of experiences to vary the pleasures on the snow :
- Fat biking: these wide-tired bikes allow you to ride down the snowy slopes after the lifts close, a unique experience combining speed and balance (guided outings from Méribel-Mottaret).
- Ski touring: for those who prefer the mountain off the beaten tracks, several marked routes make it possible to climb the slopes with skins before enjoying a downhill run at sunrise.
- Snow tubing: accessible to everyone, this activity consists of sliding down a specially designed slope on a large inflatable tube. Laughter guaranteed for both children and adults.
- Night skiing: on certain evenings, the slopes open exceptionally under the stars, with music and a good mulled wine waiting at the finish line.
3. Experience an Unusual Adventure with Dog Sledding
Discovering Méribel by dog sled is an original and extraordinary experience combining nature, silence, and connection with the animals, in a setting worthy of an adventure film. Like modern-day Jack Londons, let yourself be carried away by your musher, who guides the team through the snowy forests.
Comfortably seated in the sled, well wrapped up, you let nature surround you while the dogs glide swiftly over the powder snow. The most curious can even take the reins, guided by the musher, to learn the basics of driving a sled team and to feel that sense of freedom and harmony with the animals.
For an equally peaceful, slightly more romantic, and even more unusual alternative, choose a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Pulled by a magnificent horse, you’ll travel through snowy plains between frozen lakes and frost-covered fir trees, the sound of hooves the only thing breaking the silence. The slow rhythm of the horse, the softness of the landscape, and the gentle light create a magical atmosphere, a timeless moment to enjoy together.
Practical information :
- Where: Plateau de l’Altiport or Parc de la Vanoise.
- Budget: for dog sledding, from €100 for 30 minutes (2 people). For horse-drawn sleigh rides, €60 for 30 minutes (4 adults).
- Good to know: advance booking recommended during the high season. Activity depends on snow conditions.
4. Enjoy a Thrilling Snowmobile Adventure
Snowmobiling in Méribel is an exhilarating experience that blends adrenaline with the magic of discovery, perfect for anyone who loves speed and wide-open spaces. Departing from Méribel-Mottaret, you’ll take the controls of an all-terrain machine, guided by a professional, and set off to explore the snow-covered ridges and legendary forests of the 3 Vallées. The ride is intuitive and accessible to all, delivering from the very first moments an incredible sensation of glide, power, and freedom.
The route winds through areas normally unreachable on skis, revealing breathtaking views of the peaks and pristine valleys below.
For an even more unforgettable experience, try a nighttime excursion beneath the stars. The snowmobiles’ headlights carve glowing paths across the fresh snow, their soft hum blending with the silence of the mountains. The atmosphere feels almost otherworldly, a truly memorable adventure to experience in Méribel.
Practical information :
- Where: Departure from Méribel-Mottaret (near the snow front)
- Budget: Around €120 for 45 minutes (1 or 2 people)
- Good to know: Equipment provided. A valid driving licence is required to operate the vehicle.
What to Do in Méribel When You Don’t Ski ?
For those who aren’t fans of skiing or snowboarding, the resort offers plenty of ways to make the most of the mountains without ever putting on skis. From helicopter flights and shopping in the pedestrian centre to exploring local heritage, everyone can find something to enjoy off the slopes.
5. Stroll Through Méribel’s Centre and Enjoy a Day of Shopping
The centre of Méribel is perfect for a ski-free day. Between wooden chalets and lively streets, you’ll find a fine selection of boutiques, from sportswear and fashion to local crafts. Wander through shop windows featuring premium brands such as Bogner, Fusalp, Moncler, or Rossignol, and treat yourself to a mountain souvenir or some gourmet specialties to take home. After your shopping, enjoy a coffee on the terrace or a sweet treat at the Grand Café des Allues.
Practical information :
- Where: Rue des Jeux Olympiques and Galerie du Ruitor, in Méribel Centre
- Budget: Varies depending on your purchases
- Good to know: Shops open 7 days a week during the season – the resort is easily walkable or accessible via the free shuttle service.
6. Discover the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Chapel and Its Modern Architecture
Built in 1962 and listed among France’s remarkable buildings, the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Chapel is one of Méribel’s architectural landmarks. Its triangular structure evokes the lines of a snow-capped summit and blends perfectly into the alpine landscape. Inside, light filters through Paul Courtaud’s colourful stained glass, casting delicate blue and golden hues across the walls. The atmosphere is calm and almost meditative.
Practical information: :
- Where: Méribel Centre, near the Tourist Office and the church square
- Budget: Free admission
- Good to know: Open daily with free visits available. Concerts and services are regularly held during the winter season.
7. Admire the 3 Vallées from the Sky on a Helicopter Flight
Take off for a panoramic helicopter tour from Méribel’s Altiport and treat yourself to one of the most breathtaking views in the Alps. Within seconds, the resort shrinks below your feet, revealing a stunning bird’s-eye view of the 3 Vallées, snow-covered chalets, and glittering ridgelines.
The flight is led by experienced pilots passionate about the mountains. They comment on the journey, share anecdotes about the peaks, and adapt the route to the weather to ensure the best possible views. You’ll fly over the neighbouring resorts of Courchevel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens, and then above the pristine glaciers of the Vanoise massif.
Several flight options are available depending on your preferences: a 10-minute discovery flight for a first experience, or a prestige flight including the Mont Blanc or Vanoise Park overflight. Each route promises a unique and awe-inspiring adventure in the high mountains.
Practical information: :
- Where: Méribel Altiport
- Budget: From €100 per person for a 10- to 15-minute flight
- Good to know: Activity subject to weather conditions – advance booking required. Private flights and transfers to other resorts also available.
What Are the Best Summer Activities in Méribel ?
When the snow melts and the alpine pastures burst into bloom, Méribel reveals an entirely different side, one made for exploration, adventure, and fresh mountain air. Hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, via ferrata, the resort overflows with outdoor activities that make the most of long, sunlit days.
8. Wander and Explore Méribel’s Hiking Trails
Countless marked hiking paths wind through forests, lakes, and alpine meadows, offering breathtaking views over the 3 Vallées. Hiking in Méribel suits all levels:
- For a peaceful walk, the trail around Lac de Tueda offers a flat, shaded route, perfect for a family stroll or a picnic facing the peaks. The path gently leaves Méribel-Mottaret, following a lively mountain stream, before opening onto a majestic scene: the shimmering waters of Lake Tueda beneath the sun, with the dramatic Aiguille du Fruit rising in the background.
- Nature lovers may prefer the hike to Lac des Fées. More secluded, this small lake hidden within the Tueda Nature Reserve rewards hikers after a steady climb through mountain pastures. Up there, the silence is broken only by a marmot’s whistle or the soft step of a curious ibex — the perfect place to feel alone in untouched nature.
- More experienced hikers can venture toward Refuge du Saut (2,126 m) , a more demanding trail winding through the Vallon du Fruit, past waterfalls and grazing meadows, leading to a spectacular view of the Vanoise glaciers. At the top, the refuge welcomes hikers for a well-deserved break over a Savoyard dish or a hot chocolate.
Practical information :
- Where: Trailheads from Plan de Tueda, Méribel-Mottaret, or Les Allues
- Budget: Free access; guided hikes available for around €40–60 per day
- Good to know: Bring sturdy hiking shoes and a water bottle. Trail maps are available at the Tourist Office.
9. Enjoy the Alps by Bike or Mountain Bike
For cycling enthusiasts, Méribel offers a variety of marked routes through forests, mountain passes, and high-altitude trails. The Méribel Bike Park features 11 downhill trails, 10 enduro routes, and several cross-country circuits, suitable for every level. You can even use the ski lifts in summer to focus only on the descent.
For a more relaxed option, electric bikes are available to rent, perfect for exploring mountain hamlets and panoramic viewpoints effortlessly, such as the scenic road leading up to Col de la Loze.
Practical information:
- Where: Méribel Bike Park (access via Tougnète 1 gondola) or marked trails around Plan de Tueda
- Budget: Mountain lift pass from €26; bike or e-bike rental from €60 per day
- Good to know: Helmet required; beginner and children’s lessons available.
10. Soar Over the Allues Valley in a Paragliding Flight
Accompanied by a certified instructor, take off from the Altiport or Saulire and glide above forests, villages, and surrounding peaks. The instant your feet leave the ground is unforgettable, a pure feeling of freedom as the valley unfolds beneath you.
Carried by the air currents, you’ll silently drift above the 3 Vallées, admiring the raw beauty of the Alps: high-altitude lakes, tiny chalets far below, and, on clear days, the Mont Blanc shimmering in the distance. It’s a 360° spectacle that perfectly blends serenity and adrenaline.
Flights are available for all levels and preferences:
- Discovery flights for first-timers
- Thermic flights for longer journeys
- Acrobatic flights for thrill-seekers
Practical information :
- Where: Departures from Méribel Altiport or Saulire
- Budget: Around €120 for a tandem flight (20–30 minutes)
- Good to know: Weather-dependent activity, warm clothing and sunglasses recommended.
What Are the Best Activities to Do as a Couple in Méribel ?
Spa, gastronomy, snowshoeing or walks in nature, every activity in Méribel lends itself to moments of sharing, relaxation, and connection as a couple. Whether in winter or summer, Méribel is the perfect setting to enjoy time together and leave with unforgettable memories.
11. Share a Moment of Pure Relaxation for Two at the Spa
After a day on the slopes or a hike in the fresh air, there is nothing better than a relaxing break at the Spa of Hôtel Le Mont Vallon. A true haven of peace and comfort in the heart of Méribel-Mottaret, this wellness area combines mountain views, enveloping warmth, and personalised treatments.
The experience begins with a session in the sauna to relax your muscles and forget the fatigue of the day. Then comes the moment to completely let go: massages, facial treatments, or the jacuzzi, where the hot water contrasts with the cold outside. Each moment is designed to restore balance and serenity, in an intimate and soothing atmosphere ideal for disconnection.
Practical information :
- Where: Spa of Hôtel Le Mont Vallon, Méribel-Mottaret.
- Budget: Spa access from €40, duo massages from €120.
- Good to know: booking recommended. Spa open every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for hotel guests, available on request for external visitors.
12. Enjoy a romantic meal in a gourmet restaurant
On the gastronomy side, Méribel reveals another facet of its charm, that of a gourmet resort where conviviality meets fine dining. For a dinner for two, Méribel is full of restaurants to suit all tastes and desires.
For an exceptional experience, reserve a table at L’Ekrin, a Michelin-starred restaurant. The chef offers inventive and delicate cuisine inspired by Savoyard local products, enhanced by modern techniques. It is the ideal address for a romantic evening facing the mountains.
For a warmer atmosphere, the restaurant Le Chalet at Hôtel Le Mont Vallon offers traditional French and Savoyard cuisine: homemade foie gras, delicately prepared fish, exceptional meats, and delicious homemade desserts made with fresh products.
Practical information:
- Where: L’Ekrin and Le Chalet at Hôtel Le Mont Vallon.
- Budget: from €50 to €150 per person depending on the establishment.
- Good to know: booking recommended in the evening and during high season.
13. Go for a snowshoe walk
Snowshoeing is the ideal activity for couples who wish to enjoy the fresh air and the tranquillity of the mountain, savouring every moment together.
From the Plan de Tueda or the Altiport, the trails wind through snowy forests, pass clearings bathed in light, and lead to spectacular viewpoints over the summits of the 3 Vallées. The landscape changes along the way: frozen streams, fox tracks in the powder snow, the soft crunch of snow under the snowshoes, and sometimes, the sun shining through the fir trees.
You can choose to go alone, to enjoy exceptional intimacy, or be accompanied by a guide to learn how to recognise animal tracks and other secrets of nature.
Practical information :
- Where: Plan de Tueda sector or Méribel Altiport.
- Budget: guided outing from €30 per person, snowshoe rental around €10 per day.
- Good to know: “sunset” or “night” outings available by reservation.
What Are the Best Activities to Do as a Family in Méribel??
In both summer and winter, the resort offers a wide range of activities suitable for all ages — sledging, treetop adventures, or even ice skating. Méribel is a family-friendly destination where children and adults can share moments of fun and togetherness in the mountains.
14. Have Fun Together on Méribel’s Sledging Runs
Méribel offers several safe and well-maintained sledging runs suitable for all ages, allowing children to experience the thrill of sliding in complete safety. The most famous one, Himalaya by Night in Méribel-Mottaret, features a 2 km descent filled with turns, tunnels, and light effects. After the first ride, kids will want to go again and again! For younger children, the Kenotte Park area provides a dedicated zone with a conveyor belt for easy access and a gentle slope, perfect for beginners.
Practical information :
- Where: Himalaya by Night in Méribel-Mottaret and Kenotte Park in Méribel Centre
- Budget: Free access; sled rental around €10–15
- Good to know: Helmets required for children. Opening depends on snow conditions.
15. Try the Adventure Park in the Heart of the Forest
Located near Plan de Tueda, the Méribel Aventure Forest Park offers several treetop courses suitable for all skill levels, starting from age 4. Kids can learn balance and confidence while parents enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning alpine scenery. With its nets, bridges, and zip lines, it’s a fun and accessible activity for the whole family.
Practical information :
- Where: Méribel Aventure Forest Park, near Plan de Tueda
- Budget: Around €20–30 per person depending on the course
- Good to know: Sportswear and closed shoes recommended. Advance booking advised during high season.
16. Discover the Olympic Park and Its Ice Rink
The Méribel Olympic Park features an ice rink, climbing wall, and even a bowling alley, perfect for families looking for indoor fun beyond skiing or biking. Its large rink, a legacy of the Albertville Winter Olympics, welcomes skaters of all ages to enjoy gliding on ice in a lively, friendly atmosphere. On rainy or snowy days, it’s also the perfect place to mix things up with swimming, climbing, or bowling.
Practical information:
- Where: Olympic Park, in the centre of Méribel
- Budget: Entry €5; skate rental €4
- Good to know: Themed evenings and family events held during school holidays. Open daily in season.
Prepare Your Stay in Méribel
Access :
The Méribel-Mottaret resort is located just 20 minutes from Moûtiers, the gateway to the 3 Vallées.
- By car, expect about 2 hours from Chambéry, 2.5 hours from Geneva, and 6 hours from Paris.
- By train, the Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains station is served by TGV and regional trains, with a regular shuttle connecting to Méribel. Private transfers and taxis are also available upon reservation, for example, through the reception service of Hôtel Le Mont Vallon, which can organise your transport from the station or airport directly to the hotel.
Best times to visit :
- Winter season (December to April): ideal for skiing, snow activities, and snowy landscapes.
- Summer season (June to September): perfect for hiking, mountain biking, nature escapes, and cultural or sporting events.
Average budget :
A weekend in Méribel costs on average between 350 € and 600 € for two people, including accommodation, meals, and activities. Prices vary depending on the season and the type of lodging chosen (hotel, residence, or chalet).
Weather and equipment :
- In winter, temperatures range between –5°C and 5°C, with reliable snow cover across the entire ski area. Be sure to bring warm, waterproof clothing and proper snow footwear.
- In summer, days are mild (between 15°C and 25°C), though evenings can be cool at higher altitudes. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle are essentials to fully enjoy your outdoor activities.
Weekend Idea in Méribel
Day 1 – Arrival in Méribel
Settle in at Hôtel Le Mont Vallon and start your stay with lunch on the terrace of the Brasserie de l’Authentic. Then, enjoy a discovery activity depending on the season: a dog sled ride in winter, or a mountain bike or hiking outing around Lake Tueda in summer.
Back at the hotel, unwind with a moment of relaxation, and end your day with a delicious dinner featuring local cuisine at Le Chalet restaurant, in a cozy and authentic mountain atmosphere.
Day 2 – Exploring the 3 Vallées
After a hearty breakfast, head out for a day of skiing across the 3 Vallées ski area, or go on a hike around Plan de Tueda, depending on the season. Take a break for lunch in an altitude restaurant, where you can admire the view while enjoying traditional Savoyard dishes.
In the afternoon, return to Méribel for a soothing break at the Spa du Mont Vallon, sauna, steam room, and a relaxing massage to recharge before dinner.
In the evening, treat yourself to an exceptional meal at one of Méribel’s gourmet restaurants, such as Le Cèpe by Chef Alain Plouzané, for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Day 3 – Souvenir Shopping in Méribel
On your last day, enjoy a gourmet breakfast at the hotel or in your room, then head into Méribel’s town centre for some souvenir shopping before you leave. Discover local shops selling sportswear, fashion, and artisanal products, or simply savour a last coffee on a sunny terrace before hitting the road, refreshed and recharged.
Where to Stay in Méribel During Your Stay ?
In Méribel, whether you choose to stay in Méribel-Mottaret, at the highest point of the resort, or in the village centre, you’ll find a wide range of options, from chalets and apartments to hotels offering full services including spa, dining, and concierge.
The Hôtel Le Mont Vallon is the ideal ski-in, ski-out address thanks to its direct access to the 3 Vallées slopes. Located right at the foot of the pistes, our hotel in Méribel-Mottaret lets you clip on your skis the moment you step outside. The establishment combines comfort, authenticity, and premium services: spacious rooms with mountain views, a spa with a heated pool, and refined, locally inspired cuisine.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Méribell ?
For skiing and snow-covered landscapes, the best period is from December to April, when all the slopes of the 3 Vallées ski area are fully open.
For hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor activities, June to September offers sunny days and pleasant temperatures around 20°C.
What can you do in Méribel when it rains ?
Méribel offers many indoor activities, especially at the Olympic Park: swimming pool, bowling alley, climbing wall, and ice rink, everything you need to have a good time with family or friends.
You can also relax in a spa, or explore the shops and cafés in the town centre.
What are the most beautiful hikes in Méribel ?
The most beautiful hikes in Méribel include the walk around Lac de Tueda, which is easy and family-friendly, the hike to Lac des Fées in the nature reserve, and the ascent to Refuge du Saut, which is more demanding but offers an exceptional panorama over the Vanoise glaciers.
Can you visit Méribel without a car ?
Yes, the resort is easily accessible without a car. The train goes to Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains, then regular shuttles connect to Méribel.
Once in the resort, a free bus network runs between the different areas (Centre, Mottaret, Village), and most hotels, including Le Mont Vallon, are located right next to the slopes and ski lifts.
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