© Jack Franks
© SeeMeribel.com
© SeeMeribel.com
© Jack Franks
5 Alternative Ways to Spend your Evenings in Meribel
Some alternatives to non-stop boozy nights out
As the lines between a week of skiing and a lads holiday to Magaluf become ever more blurred, it is important to remember that there is fun and enjoyment out there that doesn’t have to end with your head in the toilet.
So here are 5 wholesome activities that the whole family (apart from the comedy, perhaps) can enjoy without ever having to step foot on a sticky nightclub floor (I’m looking at you, O’Sullivans).
Ice Hockey – The ice rink at Meribel’s Olympic Centre regularly hosts ice hockey matches between local teams. €5 will gain you entry and you’ll find a great atmosphere with celebratory music pumped out with each goal scored. If you really need a drink you can warm yourself up with a mulled wine for the very reasonable price of €2.
Cinema – Both Meribel and Meribel-Mottaret have small cinemas. Meribel’s is located in the Auditorium next to the Tourist Office. Just look for the big golden Marmot (new this year) and you’ll be heading in the right direction. Mottaret’s cinema is also near their own Tourist Office. Any listings marked VO are films in their original format. There’s a vending machine at each with a minimal selection but bring your own popcorn as there is none to be found. Entry fee is just €8.00
Comedy – Taking the Piste are an Alps based events company that put on many of the parties you will be attending this season. However, as their name may explain, they started out by bringing top comedians out to the mountains. They continue to do just that to this very day. Recent years have seen the likes of Marcus Brigstocke, Ed Byrne and Romesh Ranganathan bringing the laugh. Keep an eye on facebook for what’s coming up this season.
Night Skiing – If you can get yourself over to Courchevel on a Wednesday evening you’ll find the Verdons piste and the Family Park floodlit and served by the Verdons bubble. Night skiing is free if you already have a pass or €8 otherwise. Keep an eye out for their XXL evenings, which include fireworks, DJs, free mulled wine and more.
Winter Hiking – Get out and go for a hike. Visit one of the many ski shops in town and rent yourself a pair of snowshoes overnight. For beginners I would suggest walking up ‘La Truite’ from the Chaudanne to Mottaret from where you can get the free bus down to Meribel Centre. More advanced hikers may wish to tackle a steeper run. Bring a headtorch and make sure to watch out for piste bashers. Snowshoe rental is available from most ski shops in town. My favourite is Sports 1600 up near Aux Petit Oignons.
