Méribel

🏔️ History
Founded in 1938 by Scotsman Peter Lindsay, Méribel is the geographic heart of the gigantic 3 Valleys (Les 3 Vallées) domain in the French Alps. Unlike other large French resorts built in the 60s, Méribel has maintained a strict building code requiring local wood and slate, preserving its aesthetic of traditional Alpine chalets surrounded by dense pine forests.

☀️ Best days
Cold, sunny mornings in January or February. Its central location in the valley allows it to receive plenty of sun during the day, but its higher elevations ensure excellent snow. Runs like the "Combe du Vallon" (starting from Mont Vallon at almost 3,000 m) offer long, glorious descents with top-notch powder.

🚫 Days to avoid
Peak weeks during European school holidays or days with extreme wind. Being the connecting hub for the entire 3 Valleys domain, queues at key lifts (like the Saulire Express) can be significant during rush hours. If high winds force the closure of the valley connections, you might get stuck.

💡 Community tip
Being in the center gives you the power to choose the best snow every day: ski in Méribel in the morning and move towards Courchevel or Val Thorens in the afternoon, following the sun. Don't miss the legendary après-ski at La Folie Douce, but remember to ski down carefully afterwards.