Skip to main content

Where are you staying?

SeeMeribel

Philippe Gardin: Director of Le Grand Chalet des Pistes

Celebrating 40 years of being in business this year

featured in Meet the locals Author Ellie Mahoney, Meribel Editor Updated

The director of the Grand Chalet des Pistes in Meribel tells us about his first time in the Meribel valley, and shares how the business is going from strength to strength after 40 years.

Philippe, tell us a little bit about your business?

Le Chalet des Pistes is a 3 star tourist residence in the heart of the three valleys in Méribel, at the rond-point des pistes. Built in 1975, we're celebrating 40 years of existence this year, and it's aged well. It consists of 50 furnished apartments, from studios to 3 bedrooms for 2 to 8 people. The apartments are comfortable, renovated and fully equipped with telephone, satellite TV, WiFi and linen. There are also common areas such as private parking, a solarium terrace, reception, a fireplace in the lounge, a snack bar, a games room, fitness centre, ski area and washing facilities.

How long have you been working here?

I've been working at the Grand Chalet des Pistes since 1980, and I have been the Director since 1990.

Do you remember your first time in Meribel?

I fell in love with this valley when I arrived and I never left. The first time was in 1978, I was 20 and it was love at first sight. I love the great outdoors, winter and skiing, summer hiking, the active tourist season but also in between seasons, it's much calmer. The harmony that emerges from the landscape brings me serenity. The variety of activities and seasons constantly changing, the quality of exchanges with people encountered is all good.

What is in store for the future with your business, any exciting projects in the pipelines that you can share with us?

We are always looking for improvement and always concerned about the safety and comfort of our establishment. Therefore we have a five year programme ahead of important fire safety work and accessibility for people with reduced mobility, roof renovation, changing the elevators, renewal of the doors and heating. I always dream of a great summer season, as flourishing as the winter, providing prosperity and balance.

Tell us your favourite places for skiing when you're not at work?

I love skiing, the freedom of movement it offers and the huge terrain playground of skiing that's available. I like large gradients like La Face, le Mont de la Challe, Mont Vallon, la Mauduit, le col de la loze up from Méribel-Village plus I like cross country skiing in the Forest of at the Altiport.

If someone was coming here for the first time, what would you suggest they absolutely must do or see in resort?

The must see/do thing I'd suggest is the summit of three valleys and the Gébroulaz glacier, 20km descent, an altitude of 2000m - the mountain in all its splendour. It's our Vallée Blanche! You should also take in the 360 degree view from the top of the Saulire, Lac Tueda and the Aiguille du Fruit.

-

Le Grand Chalet des Pistes apartments are available both in summer and winter.

Location

Map of the surrounding area