Meribel has a range of hiking routes, some are more challenging than others, with hikes at the base of glaciers and some easier mountain hikes allowing you to explore the Alps and the Meribel Valley. From the high altitude hikes you can witness the breathtaking scenery and picturesque views that the mountains have to offer.
Hiking Routes in Meribel
There are various mountain guides who will lead you on your hike or you can choose to tackle the trail or route on your own but just make sure you are fully equipped, prepared and have all the full details before setting off.
Below are a selection of some of the suggested hiking routes in Meribel. There are many more to choose from, so pick up a guide or map from a magasin or information point to explore some of the other routes.
Hike 1:
Starting Point: Meribel Mottaret - top of the Pas Du Lac 2
This high altitude hike is rated as a difficult route, covering varying terrain. It can be found on the map marked as route 27. Starting from the top of Pas du Lac 2 bubble lift you can follow the trail, from this altitude you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the valley below and the mountains in the surrounding area and distance. Keeping on the trail towards Col de Fruit where you can then start the descent downwards towards Lac du Tueda. Here you can explore the lake and Vanoise Nature Reserve, with unspoilt wildlife and mountains. You can either walk back to Meribel Mottaret or hop on a bus back to Meribel. Alternatively you can do the route the other way, taking the lift down into Meribel Mottaret at the end, challenging yourself with the uphill route.
Hike 2:
Starting point: Lac Tueda
This challenging hike is rated as 'very difficult', so make sure you are fully prepared before heading off. Labelled on the map as Route 26. Starting from Lac Tueda which you can get to via bus and a short 10 minute walk or, there is a large free car park close by. Once here you want to walk to the far end of the lake along the flat trail, once you reach the far side you want to take the trail that heads up the mountain towards Les Mures des Rouges and Plan des Mains. Walking through the tree lined and meadow lined trail you can take in the beautiful alpine summer scenery. At Plan des Mains you want to keep following the trail to Côte Brune. Here there will be a fork in the trail where you will want to take a left, after a short walk upwards there will be another fork in the trail where you will turn left. Follow the trail as it heads onwards and winds around the mountains. Heading towards Lacs du Borgne, the challenging trail will take you high up to Mont Vallon. There is a viewing map and point from here where you can see the surrounding mountains and valley. To get back down the mountain you can follow the route you took up or take the easier route marked 28 on the map.
What to see
Sights in Meribel
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Vanoise National Park
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.
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Musée des Allues
Exhibits of the history and traditions of the Meribel valley and surrounding area
The museum in Les Allues is located in an old house the 'Maison Bonnevie', opposite the church and shows exhibits of the Méribel valley's history and traditions.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Meribel
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Le Cookie's Club Restaurant
Mountain restaurant with a sunny terrace, easily accessible on skis or a snowboard
Ideal for skiers on the go, Cookie’s Club serves generous international dishes, sweet treats and sunny terrace vibes - all in a prime ski-in/ski-out location.
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Barometer Bar and Restaurant
Contemporary restaurant, pizzeria and bar in the centre of Méribel
Located at the heart of the Three Valleys, Barometer Bar offers a warm, vibrant, and stylish setting with a truly international atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting Méribel for skiing, sightseeing, or simply to unwind, this bar and restaurant provides the perfect place to relax, enjoy great food, and soak up the lively alpine energy. Open every day, Barometer is famous for serving some of the best pizzas in town, alongside a menu inspired by both French and Italian cuisine.
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Aux Petits Oignons restaurant
Fantastic, great value restaurant just above the town centre towards the Altiport.
Owners Sarah Mundy and Eric Gelin have turned this restaurant into a popular eating place and a heart of Méribel social life. Aux Petits Oignons is open all year round and has a reputation for great food and drinks at fair prices and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
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Le Cafe del Mott Restaurant and Bar
Hotel bar with great sunny terrace and chilled après-ski scene
Part of the Hotel le Mottaret, this bar has a fantastic sunny terrace serving lunch and après-ski tunes, just 50m from the Perdrix and Furet green runs.
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Tsaretta Restaurant
Open all year round bar, restaurant and live music venue, in the heart of Les Allues
Located in a traditional stone village house, this British-run bar/restaurant is the centre of nightlife in Les Allues. A dozen pizzas are on offer, including the popular l’Anglaise (mozzarella, tomato, smoked bacon, sausage, mushrooms and egg) or the Orientale (hoisin sauce, shredded duck and spring onion). You can also ‘bespoke’ your pizza by adding or subtracting your own ingredients.
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La Terrasse la Brasserie du Village
Popular après-ski bar and restaurant close to the pistes with international cuisine
La Terrasse, nestled in the heart of Méribel Village just 100m from the Golf chairlift and at the base of the Lapin piste, is open all year round - even during inter-seasons. Book your table online via the “Check website” button above and enjoy lunch, après-ski, or dinner on the heated terrace or in their cosy dining room, whatever the weather.
What to do
Things To Do in Meribel
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Adaptive ski lessons
Adaptive skiing with the official French ski school
Adaptive ski lessons offer people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy skiing with support tailored to their needs and abilities. With specialist instructors, lessons are adapted to your experience, mobility and objectives, helping you build confidence and make the most of your time on the slopes. Whether you're trying skiing for the first time or looking to improve, individual tuition provides guidance suited to you.
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Hydrospeeding
Half-day white water swimming/hydrospeeding. This is fast, fun and unforgettable
This activity is accessible to those comfortable in water, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves.
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Snowshoe walks
Snowshoe walks for all abilities
Snowshoe walks offer a wonderful way to discover Méribel’s winter landscapes away from the ski slopes, with guided outings led by qualified instructors. Suitable for all levels, these walks are available in English and provide an opportunity to explore peaceful forests, mountain trails and traditional Alpine surroundings while learning more about the local wildlife, flora and mountain heritage.
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Rafting In The Alps
Half and full day white water rafting for all abilities from eight years-old
White water rafting is accessible to all who love the natural environment and who are in search of a bit of adventure. These excursions will leave you with some unforgettable memories.
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Biathlon lessons
Private biathlon lessons for all levels
Biathlon combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, offering a different way to enjoy the mountains. Suitable for beginners, these private lessons introduce you to both disciplines with guidance from qualified instructors. You'll develop your skiing skills, practise your aim and concentration, and experience the challenge of switching between physical effort and precision shooting.
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Cross-country skiing
5 or 6 day cross-country skiing course
Cross-country skiing is a good way to stay active and explore Méribel’s winter trails. Qualified instructors offer group lessons for beginners and those looking to improve their technique, with the choice of classic and skating styles. Lessons help you build confidence, develop your skills and enjoy skiing away from the downhill pistes.
