Meribel Suggests 2025 Bucket List
Méribel Resort is an iconic destination, located in the heart of Les 3 Vallées. The village itself is chocolate-box alpine perfection. With the ski season in full swing and a real dump of snow this winter – the week commencing 9 January the resort got 60cm of snow in 48 hours – they’ve compiled a 2025 bucket list ticking off everything from Michelin magnificence to powder perfection.
Eat Michelin magic at Le Kaīla
Five-star Le Kaīla hotel – featuring Nuxe Spa with a spectacular ice fountain, private ski lift and 43 exclusive rooms – has been awarded its first Michelin Key award. Situated bang in Méribel’s centre, one of the town’s most exclusive hotels now boasts this prestigious new distinction from the Red Guide honouring establishments that offer exceptional holiday experiences. L’ Ekrin restaurant serves a bucket-list selection of specially curated dishes with creative flair in a truly intimate atmosphere. Tasting menus start at £196 (€234) per person.
Be the first to carve pristine powder
There’s nothing quite like getting first tracks as the sun gleams on the deserted piste. There’s good news for guests always racing for the first lift. The early risers’ offer, providing the chance to be first on the slopes, is back after a two-year break. Who needs a cold shower when skiers can start the day on untouched pistes with fresh mountain air while the rest of the resort sleeps? This season, First Tracks will take place in the Saulire area of the resort, starting with a tasty breakfast at La Folie Douce. The pass costs £33.50 (€40) and is capped at a maximum of 40 skiers.
Get off-piste
Skiers wanting to test their skills to the limit will feel right at home in Méribel, home to some jaw-dropping off-piste skiing. Wild valleys, immaculate slopes and majestic peaks wait for those brave enough to tackle the powder. Le Raffort zone faces east, providing stunning morning views of Mont Blanc and the Vanoise massif. Other highlights include the Les Avals Valley with over 1,000m of powder, the Saulire couloirs and the Roc Merlet face. Make sure to have the right safety equipment and always set off with a professional guide.
Have an iconic Apres experience
When it comes to Apres ski, you can’t beat La Folie Douce, sat conveniently at the top of the Mont Joux chair lift. After hitting the slopes, there’s no better feeling than sipping a cold beer on the legendary terrace as revellers dance to pounding beats in the shadow of Mont Blanc. If partying isn’t your thing, the stylish La Fruitière offers the perfect lunch spot – or for a more casual affair, grab a bite at the self-service La Petite Cuisine.
Master the mountain
Méribel is not just for experts, it’s perfect for family and beginner skiers as well. After the 2023 Winter Championships, the Chaudanne transformation continues with a new beginner's zone. Located just to the right of the Rhodos bubble, this area features a covered moving carpet, allowing first-timers to find their ski groove. There is also a dedicated sledging zone for non-skiers. As part of the snowfront redevelopment in Méribel Centre, the Chaudanne Lounge will be revamped to create a cosy space, perfect for relaxing after a day skiing. The lounge will offer hot drinks, self-serve snacks, free Wi-Fi and smartphone charging stations.
Art attack at Roc de Fer tunnel
Skiing meets street art at Méribel’s legendary Roc de Fer competition track. The tunnel under the course has been transformed into a stunning street art installation by renowned artist Franck Blériot. The artwork spans both the exterior and interior of the tunnel, transforming the passage into an immersive art display for skiers. This initiative is part of a broader development plan for the Roc de Fer area, elevating the destination not just as a premier skiing hub, but also as a cultural landmark.
Fly like a bird
Anyone with a head for heights simply has to try this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Paragliding offers the chance to gently soar like an eagle over the French Alps before gradually floating down into the resort for some epic views. It really is a pinch-yourself moment and a unique way to see Méribel’s beauty in all its glory. A tandem flight starts from the top of Saulire or Col de Loze in the afternoon, lasting about 20 minutes and costs £75 (€90).
Catch a puck
Méribel hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics ice hockey, so what better excuse do you need to watch a sport that’s not short of drama and excitement. Ice Hockey is fast-paced and gripping, even a novice will find themselves on the edge of their seats. Matches are every Tuesday evening and tickets are only £2.50 (€3). The rink also offers ice skating from 2 pm to 2 am on non-game days.
