Méribel is one of the most famous and popular ski resorts in the world. It consists mainly of quintessential chocolate-box chalets, and is surrounded by snowy mountains and Alpine meadows. It's the perfect playground for both adults and children.
Méribel is a wonderful place for a family ski holiday thanks to it's dedicated ski and play areas for children, top-notch children's ski schools, modern ski lift infra-structure and the wide choice of pretty Alpine accommodation. It is a fairly upmarket resort so be prepared to pay a little more for your holiday, but when you experience the facilities on offer, you will see why. Méribel has an excellent selection of ski and snow play areas exclusively set up for children - added to that are daily family entertainments organised by the tourist office during school holidays, both on and off the slopes. Various family ski passes are available - essentially, everyone pays the child rate. There are also special beginner passes and pedestrian passes available - children under five ski for free but you still need to get them a lift pass (with proof of age). Please see our Ski Lift Pass Prices page for further information.
Méribel lies in the middle of the Three Valleys ski area. The resort is spread out over several areas on a hillside, and for most of the accommodation, there is direct access to a ski slope even if you are not specifically ski-in/ski-out. This is important if you don't want to be carrying two or more sets of skis and all the paraphernalia that goes with skiing with children! You may encounter some steep slopes when walking between your accommodation and the centre of town, and if you don't want to bring a pushchair or buggy, you can hire these in resort. There is also a free and frequent bus service that runs throughout the resort. Have a look at a Map of Méribel to see how it's all connected. For a wider selection of ski-in/ski-out accommodation, the purpose-built resort of Mottaret that lies just above Méribel has a great choice of self-catered apartments on the slopes.
In addition to the top-notch skiing, Méribel can offer families plenty of activities in the Olympic Park sports centre, with it's swimming pool, climbing wall and ice rink. Many of the restaurants are family-friendly and there are several independent childcare companies that can help you with looking after the kids.
Méribel is a great option for a summer holiday as well, particularly if you are a biking family. The Alps are very beautiful in summer with hot sunny days and cool nights, and plenty of activities and events to keep you occupied.