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Winter 25/26 ski season build up

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By Caro Blackwell, Updated

Here we are back for another winter season and Méribel is already settling beautifully into its winter coat. The resort opens on 6 December and will run right through to 17 April, and at this rate it looks set to launch the season with an excellent base. It’s properly cold across the valley with temperatures around minus six today and the snow depths are looking very healthy with plenty more on the way. Around 13cm of fresh snow is expected on Sunday with temperatures dipping lower again by the evening which should keep everything crisp, dry and well preserved. It feels like winter has arrived early in the heart of the Three Valleys.

Across the Alps the first major snowfall of the season has been a real boost, with anything from 30cm to more than a metre depending on the region. The Western Alps have done particularly well and Méribel is right in that favourable band. The recent northerly flow has kept temperatures low and added more snow on the upper slopes with a bit of drifting on exposed ridges. The next few days look calmer with a run of dry, settled weather as high pressure moves in. We can expect clear spells, low freezing levels and good stability in the snowpack. As we head into the weekend, there may be a bit more cloud floating through with snow in the forecast for Sunday.

What’s new this winter in Meribel

There’s plenty to get excited about beyond the snow. The Côte Brune lift has finally ditched its old chairlift status and is now a proper gondola – 50 roomy cabins that’ll keep you warm and comfortable while you whisk up to the summit of Col de la Chambre. Snap a pic with the giant Instagrammable heart at the top, or enjoy a picnic with some seriously epic views of Mont Blanc.

The Rhodos gondola’s had a revamp too, with modern cabins and refreshed stations making it even easier for families, beginners and ski schools to get around. And if you’re stopping in the centre, the Chaudanne Lounge has had a full makeover – bright, modern, and perfect for a coffee break, lunch or just charging your phone.
Families can also take advantage of the new Family Flex pass which gives more options for three or more, with one or two adults and up to six kids skiing at child rates, plus a bonus day offer.
 

For British skiers, the Snow Train is back, running direct from London to the Tarentaise Valley from December to March, making eco-friendly travel to Meribel simpler than ever.

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First events of the Meribel season

The lifts officially start spinning on 6 December, marking opening day in Meribel. Expect a festive welcome with a brass band on skis and tastings of local specialities at the Bouquetin chairlift between 11:30 and 13:30.
And on 14 December, the French Ski Mountaineering Championships Sprint will be racing through the Saulire area with timed descents and tricky stair and portage sections. After cheering on the competitors, head to Saulire chalet for tartiflette and desserts from the chefs at Clos Bernard and La Folie Douce, plus another session of brass bands. The day rounds off in Mottaret with mulled wine and music from 16:30 to 18:00.

Ski holiday prep

Here's a quick checklist to prepare you for your winter ski holiday in Meribel - check all the links below, we've got you covered.

  • Book your accommodation
  • How to get to the resort
  • Need skis and boots?
  • Get your ski lessons booked
  • Plan lunch or dinner at your favourite restaurant
  • Check out what events are on during your holiday

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Winter Things To Do in Meribel

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Latest News & Reviews

Find out all about what is happening in the Méribel Valley and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the region. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.

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Upcoming Events

Méribel hosts a number of events throughout the summer and winter months, some of which span the entire Three Valleys. Two such events are Les 3 Vallees Enduro in April with every type of snowboard, ski and telemark racing imaginable, and the 3 Vallées Addict Tour mountain bike festival every July. The Tourist Office also organises children's events and activities during the school holidays.

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