© Meribel World Cup
What's new in Meribel for Winter 2014-2015
An upgraded lift, reshaped pistes, new sledding areas, more activities, extended beginners’ areas & the Ski World Cup Final
If you're heading this way in winter, Méribel has got a little bit more to discover, from a new lift to improved beginners areas, a new ski pass and new activities for adults and children.
Ski Lifts
The old, slow Loze chairlift has been replaced by a high speed four-man chairlift, named Loze Express. This will whisk you to the Col de la Loze in just six minutes, offering a fast and uncrowded route to la Tania and Courchevel.
On the Pistes
Ski the world champions’ piste! Méribel will be hosting the most prestigious event in the skiing calendar, the Finals of the Alpine Skiing World Cup, from 18 to 22 March 2015. The blue Roc de Fer piste has been completely redesigned for this event, with snow cannons added up to the summit. This winter you can ski the course before the event and measure yourself against the world’s very best skiers!
In Mottaret, it will be easier to avoid the sometimes tricky bottom of the main blue Martre piste into the resort. The little-known alternative route down, called the Easy Way, has been re-graded to remove a flat stretch, offering an easier descent into Mottaret centre via le Hameau.
For Beginners
Méribel’s peaceful skiing area, the Ski Cool, has been enlarged. Situated at the beautiful Altiport area, this is the ideal place for children and adult beginners to practise in peace and quiet on easy slopes.
Méribel’s Moon Park has been refitted and given a Moon-theme makeover. The blue trail has been enlarged and equipped with more soft impact jumps, so you can practice freestyle in confidence. The Shred Zone now allows you to choose your jumps without having to follow a particular trail, giving you much greater freedom.
New ski pass for two
As well as Family passes and group passes, Méribel now offers a special Duo Pass for two people. You can ski with a partner or friend for less when you buy a 6-day pass, either for Méribel or the 3 Valleys. You'll save €10 per person on a 6-day 3 Valleys ski pass and €7 per person on a 6-day Méribel pass. (One payment, same ski area and duration.)
Take a break – and get connected
Last year, the excellent “Lounge” indoor picnic area opened at La Chaudanne. This is now equipped with TV screens so you can follow information on the ski area such as lift openings and weather reports in real time. It also offers free WiFi so you can limit your data use and show off your photos to family or friends at home.
Children’s fun on the slopes
Méribel has recently been awarded Famille Plus status, a prestigious award guaranteeing a family-friendly stay, and the resort is now doing even more for children. This winter sees two new safe toboggan areas in Méribel. At the Chaudanne, the sledding area at the foot of the Rhodos gondola lift has moved to a sunnier area, making it more suitable for little ones. At the Altiport, there is a brand new sledding zone with a sheltered picnic and relaxation spot for families. These new areas are made safe with padded barriers and restricted access, so the kids can have fun in complete safety.
The popular Inuit piste at Altiport has been enlarged; two new discovery trails open this winter through the Altiport forest. A children’s entertainer will offer free activities five days per week in the Inuit village: building igloos, blind man’s buff, snowball fights, mushing with huskies etc.
New walking path above Mottaret
A new winter walking path is to be created at le Plan des Mains, at the foot of le Mont Vallon. This is accessible via the Plattières and Plan des mains lifts (special non-skiers pass available) and is open to walkers and snowshoers.
New activities
Méribel’s French Ski School (ESF) is offering two new activities this winter. Novices can try the sport of biathlon, combing cross-country skiing with shooting with a 22 rifle. (1½ hours, 110€). If you prefer to take life at a gentler place try the ESF’s gourmet snowshoe outing. After a two hour peaceful walk through the valley’s forests, you will share a gastronomic meal in one of Méribel’s best restaurants. Price: 100€, meal included. Book at the ESF offices.
Children’s activities
Méribel’s Olympic ice-rink hosts a family session on Tuesday mornings (10.00-12.00). Called le Jardin de Glace, this ice playground allows children and adults to have fun in a safe and tranquil atmosphere. Price 4€ per adult or child (skate hire included).
Méribel boasts a new children’s indoor play area, the Kenothèque. It’s the ideal place to spend family time together. Books and games can used for free and each week there is a programme of activities and a drawing competition with prizes to win.
