What's New in Meribel Town This Winter?
A round-up of new bars, restaurants and apres-ski activities
The resort boasts two brand new eateries, one in the centre of town and the other hidden away at a ‘secret’ location in the woods.
Elderflower Fizz is Méribel’s only coffee shop/tea rooms which remains open all day. The small but perfectly formed eatery is located on Route de la Montée (between la Chaudanne and the centre of town). It will open from 8am to 6pm, serving breakfasts, light lunches and afternoon teas. British owner Nicola Johnston says she will offer quiches, sandwiches, panini, salads and platters plus healthy picnics to enjoy on the slopes. Quality teas and some seriously rich hot chocolate are also bound to be popular.
Le Clos Bernard is a chalet-style restaurant nestling deep in the woods at the Altiport area above Méribel. The long-abandoned building has been entirely renovated by owner Richard Schemiel. It is bound to be a hit with those who live, walk or cross-country ski at the Altiport, and with downhill skiers willing to venture a little way off the beaten tracks. The restaurant will offer meat grilled over an open fire, local specialities and traditional deserts. It will open every day for lunch and for evenings by reservation only, with a theme night on Wednesdays. Skiers’ access will be signposted from the Animal trail at Méribel’s Altiport.
Two well-known and popular Méribel establishments have a new look this winter. Le Refuge in the town centre is being run by new owner Julie Dallery. The former pizzeria and separate Savoyard restaurant have been amalgamated, and both floors of the establishment will now offer the same menu. Describing its cuisine as “bistronomique”, the Refuge now offers pizzas, pastas and a range of innovative bistro-style dishes. Takeaways are also available.
The chicest of Méribel’s bars, Le Poste de Secours, has also had a revamp and been renamed l’Abreuvoir (meaning a watering hole). Manager Davi will offer drinks, tapas and Savoyard-style snacks in this central Méribel location.
The Village des Pains boulangerie in Méribel Village is under new management. Thanks to an automated machine located on the outside, you can buy fresh bread at any time, even when the shop is closed.
The new floodlit Little Himalaya piste in Mottaret will be the setting for new après-ski activities. Whizz down this new piste under the stars during the night sledding evenings on Mondays from 5.30 to 7.30pm. Cost: 10€ (or 5€ for one run). And during the French holidays, you can try night skiing on Thursdays evenings at the same times. Price: 8€ all evening
