What's new this winter in Meribel
From the ski area to what's fresh in the resort
As winter takes hold in Meribel we take a look at all that's new in the resort and on the slopes.
Early signs of snowfall here in The Alps are creating much excitement for the upcoming winter season. The ski industry here is raring to go and this winter looks like being an exceptionally busy one. Meribel ski area opens 6 December 2025 and ski passes are on already sale.
Winter tyres
A reminder that it's now mandatory from 1 November to 31 March to have winter tyres (M&S marking, or all weather (four season) tyres), OR at least two snow chains/socks in the vehicle when driving in the mountain regions in France, following a law introduced from November 2021.
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On the slopes
New gondola
After decades as a chairlift, Côte Brune is now a gondola lift! Gone are the cold rides in bad weather - make way for comfort, with 50 spacious cabins that can each carry up to 10 people, making a capacity of 2,600 skiers per hour thanks to its two boarding platforms.
This will allow skiers to enjoy easy access to the summit of the Col de la Chambre with its slopes suitable for all levels, or take a gourmet break in one of the nearby restaurants.
The new Rhodos lift
After 36 years of loyal service, the Rhodos gondola is also getting a facelift this year. The next-generation cabins, with eight seats (or 10 standing) offer greater comfort and efficiency. Both lift stations have been completely modernised for an even more enjoyable experience.
With these new updates and the easy access to the Rond-Point and Altiport areas, Rhodos is an area that is perfect for families, beginners and ski schools.
The Chaudanne Lounge
The “Lounge de la Chaudanne” has had a makeover: a new look and new ambience - visit this completely redesigned space, it’s brighter, more modern and very welcoming. As spacious as ever, the 85 seats are modular; suitable for solo snack breaks or lunches with family and friends. You’ll also find vending machines for drinks and snacks and secure charging stations for your phone. Everything you need to recharge the batteries – your own, and those of your devices.
Kids and families
Family Flex ski pass
The family pass available in Meribel and the Three Vallees is changing and becoming the Family Flex pass. This pass is new this winter and available to families of three or more, 1 or 2 adults and 1 to 6 children aged between 5 and 18 years.
Offering more flexible options to single parents, traditional families, blended families, families with one or more children, with or without family ties, can now all ski at the child rate and benefit from a bonus day with the six days for the price of five offer.
New features on the slopes
A new heart at the summit of Col de la Chambre
A new lift means new facilities… and at the top of the new Côte Brune gondola, you'll find a giant Instagrammable heart with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc.
Feeling hungry? A picnic area awaits: the perfect spot for a snack or lunch overlooking the peaks!
You can easily reach this photo spot and the new picnic area by taking the Côte Brune lift from Méribel-Mottaret, the Mont de la Chambre chairlift or the Bruyères gondola lift from Les Menuires.
Travel
Snow Train
This direct Eurostar rail service between London and the Tarentaise Valley will be running again this winter from December to March. The service will hopefully encourage British skiers to travel in an eco-friendly way, departing from London on a Saturday morning and returning Sunday morning. The closest station to Méribel is Moutiers and there are shuttles linking the resort and bus station. Or you can get a transfer or taxi up to the resort. Watch out for package offers including rail travel.
Events
Alongside torchlit descents, forest outings at night and New Year parades you’ll find night time sledging, the FIS Alpine Ski World Championships, yoga and Enduro racing. These events and more are all in our events calendar.
