This hike is four hours there and back through iconic alpine scenes including lakes, towering mountains and raging glacial melt streams. There is also a good chance you will see local wildlife and alpine flowers.
Lac de Tueda to Refuge du Saut
Gorgeous route on the edge of the Vanoise National Park
Either catch the free bus to Mottaret, or park at the southern most car park. As you enter into the Tueda Nature Reserve, there is a short gentle climb before Lac de Tueda comes into sight. This beautiful area is popular for those wanting a flat short stroll, a visit to the small mountain restaurant at the head of the lake, and for those wanting to purchase some cheese on the farm on the right hand side. It doesn't matter which side of the lake you walk, all of the paths converge the other side.
Continue beyond the lake until the well-used track starts to go uphill, keeping the raging gorge on your left after crossing the wooden bridge. This next section has the steepest hiking, and is affectionately known by locals as the 'lung buster'. After approximately 300m vertical ascent, the trail starts to flatten out when a cairn is reached on your right hand side. This new vista can take your breath away, and is called the Vallon du Fruit. As you continue along the valley floor, keep your eyes peeled for marmottes, there are many families along this area. Soon after walking past two small chalets, take a diversion diagonally to your right towards Lac des Fees (Lake of Fairies). This small crystal clear water lake isn't visible from the main route, but is well worth taking a look. There will be a couple of narrow tracks to follow that lead you to this spectacular sight.
After rejoining the route, continue as the track climbs again, which soon flattens out into a narrow gully. Follow the route of the glacial melt stream, then Refuge du Saut will soon come into sight. This friendly refuge provides shelter, rustic food and refreshments, and also a toilet. I'd recommend a tea and tart myrtille. There are various extensions to this route if you are feeling the need. It can take up to two hours of walking to get to the refuge, and slightly less for the return trip on the same track. The hike has just over 400m of vertical climbing, up to an altitude of 2,100m.
Watch Out For: Keep an eye on the weather forecast, it can change quickly in the mountains.
Who Should Go: Anyone with average fitness. It's an enjoyable hike for the family, or with friends who have never been to this area before.
What To Bring: This hike requires no special equipment. Walking boots would be recommended, however trainers will suffice, but be careful on the 'lung buster' section especially when descending. The route is well sign posted, carrying an IGN map (the French equivalent of OS maps) will help the curious. IGN map 3534 OT will be sold in resort. Suncream and water is a must at this altitude.
Where To Lunch: There are three options. The destination of Refuge du Saut is a good option before returning back. On the way back there is a slight detour just before the bottom of the lung buster to another good choice called Refuge du Plan. This is one of my favourites and I can recommend the salads, especially the goats cheese. Finally there is the Lac de Tueda restaurant, this can sometimes be busier than the other two restaurants.
What to see
Sights in Meribel
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Vanoise National Park 
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 & Dining in Meribel
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L'Adray Telebar Restaurant
Charming mountain restaurant with traditional Savoyard flavours and sunny terrace
Immerse yourself in the warm and authentic world of their restaurant Le Télébar, a true tribute to traditional Savoyard cuisine. Here, they invite you to discover homemade dishes, carefully prepared using local and quality ingredients.
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Private Chefs
Private chefs across the Three Valleys, handpicked just for you
From hearty family meals to exquisite fine dining, there’s a chef to suit you. Specialising in making your trip easy and unforgettable, you can enjoy 5-star catering from the comfort of your chalet.
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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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La Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Filling mountain food at the mid station of the Saulire Express bubble lift at the Folie Douce
This great value self-service canteen style mountain eatery is situated at the mid station of the Saulire Express cable car, adjoining the famous Folie Douce après-ski bar.
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La Soucoupe Restaurant
Romantically rustic traditional restaurant at the top of the Loze lift
Located at the top of La Loze, this romantically rustic restaurant serves up quality cuisine with meats cooked on the open fire. A very warm and friendly atmosphere.
What to do
Things To Do in Meribel
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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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Childcare & Babysitting
Professional private nanny service offering tailored services
Relax and enjoy your holiday with complete peace of mind, knowing your children are in the care of a trusted private nanny and babysitting service. Whether in the comfort of your chalet, apartment or hotel, their experienced nannies ensure your little ones are safe and happy while you hit the slopes or enjoy a well deserved night out.
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Childcare & Babysitting
Leading childcare specialists since 2003 for your family ski holiday
Established in 2003, this specialist childcare service has more than twenty years of experience in the Alps. Its carefully selected nannies are qualified, experienced, DBS-checked, reference-checked and first-aid trained. The multilingual team also has practical knowledge of Méribel's accommodation, ski schools and family facilities.
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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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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.
More inspiration...
For more about hiking in Meribel, check out our guide here.
