Meribel Gives 10 Reasons To Visit This Holiday Season

Nestled in the heart of Les Trois Vallées, Méribel is being transformed into a magical winter wonderland as the first snow of the 23/24 seasons falls. An accessible, snow-sure resort, the leading ski destination has everything you need for a fuss-free, festive family holiday. With both on- and off-slope activities aplenty, here’s the pick of the best things to discover this winter 

Off-slope Adventures 

• Lake-side Sleigh Ride: An all-round family favourite suited to all generations, enjoy a magical horse drawn sleigh ride through Lac Tueda, Méribel’s very own nature reserve and lake surrounded by dense forests of rare snow-coated pine trees. As your horse trots steadily along, soak in the incredible mountain views from the comfort of your very own private carriage, a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
• Meet Santa: Christmas is the most magical time to explore the streets of Méribel centre, soaking in the town's alpine charm and avenues lined with twinkling lights. Spot Santa as he arrives to spread festive cheer on Christmas Eve. With an entourage of gospel singers, and Santa’s very own elves, the village is filled with merriment as carols are sung and children’s wishes come true. Keep your eyes peeled for Santa showing off his skills crossing a nail-biting slack-line during the Christmas celebrations in Méribel Mottaret.
• Fun and Games at the Parc Olympique: An old-school family favourite, spend the afternoon at Méribel’s Parc Olympique, which offers an array of activities for all ages, from specially adapted bowling lanes to a full sized ice-rink. The perfect location for some much-needed leisure time away from the slopes, the Parc Olympique also has pool tables, video games and table-football as well as other activities such as swimming and a daunting 14 metre climbing wall suitable for beginner to advanced climbers. 

On-slope Activities 

• Thrilling Sledge Runs: For kids who simply can’t keep away from the slopes, Méribel’s exhilarating sledge runs are a great way to keep children entertained. Head to the Mission Black Forest run, a 3.4 kilometre sledging adventure descending 470 metres with 28 nail-biting corners. The sledge run is open every afternoon during the ski season and departs from the top of the Tougnète gondola. After the sun goes down, try out the 2km Himalaya green run in Méribel Mottaret for a laid back sledge ride under the stars.
• Festive Fun Runs: Whether by foot or on skis, families can access the enchanting Himalayan world of the Yeti Park, a relaxed and gentle green run suited to beginners, with a host of interactive features such as prayer wheels to spin, gongs to whack and horns to blow. If the family is up for the challenge, head over to the Snow Park where aspiring shredders can explore the beginners’ area, featuring a selection of boxes, jumps and a mini-half pipe.
• ESF Masterclass for Adults (January 2024): Whilst ESF is known for its reliable ski school classes for children, this winter season, a new coaching programme at Ecole du Ski Français will launch, managed by British ski instructor David Lindsay, son of Peter Lindsay, the founding father of Méribel itself. Experience a specialised, intensive and personalised English coaching programme to elevate skiing abilities to new heights. Tailored for adult skiers ranging from intermediate to advanced levels, the programme accommodates both experts and those seeking improvement, guided by a seasoned ESF coach.

Kid-friendly Culinary Experiences 

• Dine in a Real Life Igloo: Head into the depths of the magical Altiport Forest with an expert snow-shoe guide for the ultimate Christmas experience, perfect for families who want to explore. At the end of your guided walk, you will be welcomed into your very own real life igloo where you can cosy up and enjoy a heart-warming reblochon fondue. If you fancy something a bit cosier, head to the Igloo restaurant in town, best known for its laid-back and fun atmosphere, wood fired pizzas and iconic igloo themed interior.
• Christmas Day at La Table du Ruitor: Located at the heart of Méribel Mottaret, La Table de Ruitor can be found in the slope-side Hotel AlpenRuitor, boasting warm, alpine-style family rooms and a range of dining options. This Christmas, the chef and his team at La Table du Ruitor are offering a festive menu for both children and adults full of tasty traditional Savoyard delights from foie gras with ginger apple chutney to chicken dodine with a caramelised potato cylinder. 

Family-Friendly Accommodation

• Kids Go Free at Hotel Le Mottaret: Located in Méribel Mottaret, Le Mottaret offers direct access to the slopes, ski equipment hire and ESF ski school. This three-star hotel has an authentic chalet style with warm tones, fireplaces scattered throughout and a cosy lounge where you can sit back and enjoy live music in the evenings. Back in 2017, Hotel Le Mottaret introduced a new option: the Prestige Family room where kids stay for free. A family of four can relax comfortably in the cosy and refined decor of these rooms with unlimited access to the jacuzzi, games room and swimming pool.
• Five-star Kid’s Club at Le Coucou: With a designated Kid’s Club and Teen Lab designed by a specialist in children’s entertainment, Le Coucou offers 5-star accommodation for both children and adults. The Kids’ club organises daily activities for children such as shadow and light storytelling whilst the Teen Lab runs activities such as mocktail making and other creative workshops. Complete with a luxurious swimming pool, state of the art spa and delicious dining options, Le Coucou facilitates fuss-free family holidays with a touch of luxury.
• LEGO at Le Kaila: One of the best five-star family hotels in town, Le Kaila offers a stylish alpine interior with all the home comforts. The hotels kids club has partnered with LEGO to create the ultimate playground with life sized LEGO ski figurines, mountains of LEGO bricks and DUPLO for younger children. Children staying at Le Kaila will receive a complimentary exclusive LEGO set as a welcome gift.