Activities in Meribel

Top things to do in Meribel

Below are our three favourite activities in Meribel but there are plenty more to choose from. Check out the selection of things to do below for some holiday inspiration – you'll see that there are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding in Meribel.

1. Winter sports, skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are probably the most popular activities in the Mottaret. But we're not talking about lift-assisted, downhill skiing and snowboarding only – there's a whole host of activities that involve boards strapped onto your feet including ski touring and split boarding, cross-country skiing or telemarking. But there's much more than just skiing and snowboarding in Meribel in the winter. The Mottaret mountains are the perfect setting to go snowshoeing and husky-dog sledging, while the ice skating rinks in Meribel town centre will keep the whole family entertained.

2. Mountain biking

Meribel attracts hundreds of enduro and downhill biking aficionados every summer to its almost 100 km of tracks that meander through lush forests to reach stunning mountaintops with breathtaking views. An experience not to be missed!

3. Walking, hiking and running

In the summer, the Mottaret pistes turn into meadows and deep-forested trails to explore on foot. From easy valley strolls to gruelling trail running climbs, everyone can explore the Meribel valley's beautiful sunny landscapes.

Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding in Meribel

Downhill skiing and snowboarding

Lift-assisted downhill skiing and snowboarding are the most popular activities in Meribel. So much so that we could write several guides dedicated to them... and, in fact, we have! Take a look at our ski areas, pistes and parks guide where you'll not only find a lot of information on the Meribel ski area but also links to many other articles: Ski lifts guide, best pistes guide, snowparks guide, beginner ski areas guide, advanced ski areas guide, off-piste ski areas guide, ski itineraries guide and even a guide on the best places to go skiing when the weather is bad.

However, lift-assisted downhill skiing and snowboarding aren't the only things you can do in Meribel while having a pair of skis or a board strapped to your feet.

Cross-country skiing

Get back to nature and explore the lovely tranquil cross-country ski trails. There are two different techniques – classic and skating. Classic is the easiest for beginners; you simply place your skis in two parallel grooves, push off and glide around the trails. Skating is more energetic and a slightly harder skill to grasp; you push your feet out to either side as though you are ice skating and use your poles simultaneously to gain momentum. You can hire comfortable boots and lightweight skis and poles fairly inexpensively from most sports shops and book a group or private lesson to learn the basics from most ski schools or private instructors. Several adventure companies also offer cross-country skiing guiding, tours and lessons too. Find your way around with the cross-country skiing maps. 

Ski touring and splitboarding

Whether it's going up the pistes that most people normally ski down or tackling a backcountry route, ski touring and splitboarding allow you to get off the beaten path while working a sweat up the slopes. A number of ski schools, private instructors and companies can show you around or, if you've got all the necessary knowledge, you can head out in your own group. 

Heliskiing and heliboarding

Heli-skiing is not permitted in France but there are a couple of companies in Meribel offering panoramic helicopter rides that include heliskiing. They pick you up in resort and take you over the border into Italy or Switzerland from where you will ski down accompanied by a mountain guide. It is expensive, but definitely a once in a lifetime experience!

Biathlon

Modern winter biathlon is a combination of cross-country skiing and rifle shooting that tests not only fitness but also patience and control. In Meribel you can try your hand at this Olympic sport. If you like cross-country skiing but want to add another challenge, then biathlon is the perfect way to escape into the natural, quiet surrounding mountains and then shoot stuff. Bit of a contradiction this one, but it's fun all the same.

Speed-riding

The idea behind speed riding is to combine the sensations of skiing and paragliding into one activity, and then descend off-piste sections of the mountain using a mini-wing to enable you to access areas that you might not normally go. Learning and having fun with speed riding comes very fast as long as you are a competent skier – you need to be able to ski red pistes with confidence in any type of snow. 

Handiski

Enjoying the thrill of being on the pistes need not escape you if you're less mobile or have special physical needs. Resorts all over the Alps offer equipment and fully qualified guides to help you get the most out of your experience. Sit-ski, taxi ski, Vertiski, Handiski... whichever method you're used to, or would like to try there will be at least one ski school or activity company in Meribel that offers this service.

Telemarking

Telemarking is a form of downhill skiing where you are only attached into the binding at the toe, so to turn, you have to lunge and bring your heel upwards. Talk to one of the ski schools or private instructors who can teach you how to telemark and take you out on excursions using this technique. 

Snow park

Where to go to jib, bonk, spin and pop in the 3 Valleys. The Big Air Bag, which used to be located in the Area 43 snow park has been moved to the centre of Mottaret. Take some gnarly leaps off the jump and land on the air bag, the perfect place to practice those big jumps and tricks without having a crash landing on snow. Fun for beginners who are just starting jumping and for experts to practice their tricks and skills. Head to any of the S3V lift pass offices for more information and enjoy the big air bag open every afternoon and apres ski.

Inuit village for children

The Inuit village is composed of whoops, banked turns and slaloms. You will also find several fun and enjoyable Inuit-themed games and a children's entertainer is on hand all season to offer activities to your little ones. The perfect place for your children to enjoy some safe and fun beginner skiing. Access is from the Altiport chairlift or the Rhodos gondola. Located in the Altiport area near the green pistes.

Cinema

There are two cinemas to choose from, the Auditorium cinema in the centre of Méribel in the tourist offices and the other in Mottaret.

Offering two screenings per day and you will find the latest films, animated films, dramas, comedies, science fiction and more. Something for everyone. You may find an additional screening on bad weather days. Look out for VOST for English speaking films.

Both are open every day in the winter and summer seasons

Climbing in Meribel

Méribel is a great base for climbing, with options for all levels and plenty of variety. You can tackle natural rock faces with stunning views, try the safety and structure of a Via Ferrata route or even take on frozen waterfalls during the winter ice climbing season. For beginners, local guides and instructors are available to get you started and equipment can be hired in resort.

If you’d rather stay indoors or want to practise in a controlled environment, there’s an indoor climbing wall where you can learn the basics or keep your skills sharp whatever the weather.

Culture and guided tours in Meribel

Museums

If you want to know more about the Meribel Valley's history and traditions, head to the Musée des Allues.

Nature reserve

The Nature Reserve of Plan de Tueda was created in 1990 and goes from Tueda Lake to the Gebroulaz glacier via the refuge Le Saut and along the Doron stream. It features a marked botanical trail showcasing more than 100 varieties of local flora. It is also the home of the black grouse, a threatened species of bird.

Cycling in Meribel

Riding in the Alps is much more demanding than your favourite local route back in the UK. The roads around Meribel are the setting for some of the most gruelling sections of the Tour de France, but they can be tackled by enthusiasts as well as professionals. To gain the most from your riding in the area it goes without saying you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. You do not need to be a super human, but the ability to ride comfortably for up to 3-4 hours in the UK should see you enjoy the mountain routes.

If you've brought your bike with you, then you can just get on the road and challenge your fitness as you climb some of the Alps most famous mountain 'cols' at no cost. Those in need of wheels will be glad to know that you can rent road bikes in Méribel.

Fishing in Meribel

Lake fishing

Méribel, like all the alpine regions, is a paradise for fishing. You can fish at the Tueda Lake, full of rainbow trout, but bear in mind that half of the lake is reserved for no-kill fly-fishing using barbless hooks. You must ensure that you have the correct fishing permit and are aware of the local fishing regulations.

Fitness and swimming in Meribel

Gym

A public gym and fitness classes can be found at the main sports centre in Meribel, and several hotels also have their own facilities to keep you trim while you're on holiday.

Swimming

Whether you like to take a dip indoors or outdoors, you'll be able to find somewhere to go for a swim in Meribel. Most hotels, lots of chalets and some apartments have their own swimming facilities, however there are also municipal swimming baths that you can visit, which often come free with your lift pass purchase. In summer and winter you should be able to find somewhere to take a dip, so don't forget your towel and your swimming costume or shorts.

Flying in Meribel

Helicopter tours

Sit back and admire the mountains from even higher up! Daily panoramic helicopter flights are available (weather permitting) with a number of local flight companies. Relax and enjoy the stunning views as you fly over the snowcapped mountain tops, glaciers and Alpine forests.

Paragliding

If you’ve never tried paragliding before then Meribel is a great place to learn how to fly. Known as “parapenting” in France & Switzerland, there are a great number of clubs and organisations in the area whose sole purpose is give you the experience of flying. From the heights of the mountain tops you can glide down to the bottom of the valley on a tandem paraglider controlled by the instructor. He manoeuvres the parachute while the passenger enjoys the ride and fantastic views. Top tip: go on a sunny, warm day when the thermals will keep you airborne for longer.
Anyone can take part in a tandem paragliding flight, even if you've never paraglided before. You'll be attached to an instructor who'll take care of the wing, so you just need to relax and enjoy the views. 

Hot-air ballooning

One of the best ways to take the spectacular mountain scenery from a different point of view is on a hot-air balloon. There are activity companies in Meribel offering balloon rides, which usually take up half a day including preparation and inflation.

Golf in Meribel

Golf

Méribel has an 18-hole course along the wooded slopes beneath the Dent de Burgin. It has a large 1100 m² putting green, a chipping green, a bunker and a 40 station practice range. You can hire a buggy, electric trolley and a manual trolley.

Mini-golf

There is a 12-hole crazy golf course in the centre of Méribel-Mottaret. When you play a round, all the equipment is included.

Horse riding in Meribel

The Three Valleys offers a wide expanse of spectacular terrain on which you can saddle up and go exploring. There is a wide range of trails and routes waiting to be explored in Meribel and what better way to explore them than on horseback.

There is a horse-riding centre at the Bois d'Arbin open every day, all year round. They also offer private and group riding lessons, as well as pony rides for small children.

Indoor activities in Meribel

Bowling

Bowling is a great group activity in both summer and winter, or when the weather's too bad to go outside.

Cinema

Catch the latest films and releases in Meribel on your holiday. Some cinemas open their doors early on a bad weather day, otherwise you'll find most screenings in the evenings. Look out for VOST for English speaking films.

Swimming

Swimming pool and spa with sauna and steam room in the Parc Olympique

Mountain-biking & Fat-biking

The bike park in Meribel offers trails of all levels, from greens to blacks, including downhill pistes, enduro itineraries and cross-country courses.The variety of terrain ensures that everyone, from beginners to expert and pro-level downhill and freeride riders, can get many days riding on trails suited to their preferences and ability level. 

For something a bit different, give fat biking a go, it’s a fun and exhilarating way to race down the slopes in summer and winter.  In winter you can try this after a days skiing as an early evening activity, by reservation.

Snow and ice activities in Meribel

Snow shoeing

Raquette à Neige or Snow shoeing in and around Meribel is a perfect activity for bad weather conditions or for non-skiers. Don't forget to wear comfortable and waterproof boots. Either set out on your own, or join a group led by a knowledgeable local guide and explore the hidden parts of the ski area. Grab a trail map from the Tourist Office and head off on your own adventure. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.

If you don't know the local area well, we recommend you get a private guide or join a group on a snowshoe expedition – it may seem safer than skiing but you'll be exploring backcountry trails where the avalanche danger is high so it's better to go with someone who knows what they're doing. Snowshoes and ski poles are provided by most companies offering this as an experience, but you can also hire them from most ski hire shops in Meribel.

Husky dog rides

Be in charge of your own sledge and team of excitable husky dogs, driving them along forest paths in winter. After a brief explanation of how to make your team stop and start, you set off following the guide’s team. If this all sounds a bit much, you can opt for a less physical outing where you sit in the sledge and the guide does all the hard work! It's a very popular winter activity, so booking at least 48 hours in advance is a must. They run from early December to the end of April (snow-permitting).

Ice skating

In Meribel you can enjoy ice skating! It's a fun thing to do with the family, or in a group if you want to do something a little bit different for apres ski. Perfect for children and families and those who just want to enjoy the beautiful mountain views whilst playing around on some skates. There may be one or more ice skating rinks in Meribel, find out where the ice skating rinks are and enjoy some icy outings! 

Sledging

This is one winter activity that doesn't require a lot of expensive equipment, just grab your sledge and head for the nearest snow-covered hill! 
You can rent a sledge at one of the many local ski hire shops, most of the sports shops in Meribel will also have them for sale. Several activity companies also offer you the chance to sledge at night, down the ski slopes.

Tubing

In winter S3V offer 'tubing' as a winter activity. Everyday during the afternoon and for apres ski you can whizz and slide down the slopes in an inflatable ring. Definitely an adrenaline filled and fun activity for groups and families. Head to one of the S3V lift pass offices to book your tubing fun!

Spas and massages in Meribel

If it is calm and relaxation you are after then head to a luxury day spa or book in for massage therapies and beauty treatments. A day spa is also the perfect activity when the weather turns. You can keep warm and revive aching muscles in saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis or take a refreshing dip in a swimming pool.

Tennis and racket sports in Meribel

Tennis

Tennis is a great way to get the legs moving and to enjoy the sunny summertime weather. You can play a friendly game or have a lesson, whatever you choose to do it is a great way to have fun with friends and family. Open during the summer season there are tennis courts and training walls in Meribel. Lessons are usually available in groups or privately. Perfect as a family outing, you can hire a court and when tiredness hits enjoy some refreshments and snacks at the tennis club or cafe.

Meribel's tennis club also offers facilities to play badminton.

Theme parks, waterparks and aquariums in Meribel

Paintballing

Challenge your friends and family to a game of paintball! This exciting activity offers fun for groups of all ages. In most cases you're split into teams and a variety of scenarios and courses are offered at the beginning of all games, with each game lasting approximately two hours; the ultimate aim is to shoot your opponents with paint pellets and capture their flag before they get hold of yours. There are a number of adventure companies and courses that offer you paintballing fun in Meribel. 

Adventure park

Adventure parks are designed for children and adults to play, explore, exercise and have fun in the natural mountain surroundings. The ropes, swings, tunnels, trees and activities will be a great day for children and adults alike. Qualified guides will be around the course throughout to make sure you are safe and having as much fun as possible. 

Walking, hiking and running in Meribel

Walking and hiking

In the summer months, Meribel is an Alpine mecca for walking and hiking in the beautiful alpine mountains. As the snow melts and the sun begins to shine the mountains make an excellent place to head out on a hike or walk. Walking is the perfect activity for groups, families and friends. Pick from a number of routes ranging in difficulty, from easy child friendly walks to challenging day long hikes. Along the way enjoy the fantastic mountain views, beautiful scenery and wildlife that is normally hidden in the winter months. Check out our walking and hiking guide for more details on hiking in the Alps.

Trail running

There are over 200 kilometres of running paths in the area, a natural park and refuges for overnight stays. From beginner trails to extreme heights, Meribel has something for every level of trail runner

Glacier hiking

For a truly unique experience, clamp on your crampons and go hiking on one of the many glaciers in the area. The breathtaking views and spectacular crevasses make this an incredible adventure. There are a number of glacial hikes, of varying difficulty, in this region of the Alps. Most adventure companies will run organised excursions to the most accessible. To read more about glaciers and the environment, please go to our glacier meltdown article.

Winter walking

Meribel is a winter walker's paradise. With lifts giving access to the higher ground and a network of groomed trails in the winter, it's very easy to discover the resort on foot. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you set out as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. You do not need any particular equipment, just a pair of sturdy boots and layers of warm clothing that you can take off or put on as necessary. A pair of walking poles will come in handy for extra balance on icy patches and for checking snow depth before you go striding forth. Top tip: buy ‘grippers’ for your walking boots to prevent slipping, which you can buy from most local sport shops.

Watersports in Meribel

White water rafting

If you haven't experienced white water rafting before then this is a definite 'must try' on your list of activities to do! From the middle of May until September, the mountain rivers flow furiously as they are fed from the melt waters running off the glaciers high above the town. There are various options available from a three-hour adrenaline rush to a full day excursion - this activity is guaranteed not to disappoint.

Canoeing

Canoe rafts are an unsinkable, stable type of inflatable canoe that allows you, without too much technique, to profit fully from the joys and fun of white water river descent. The descents are taken on by groups of 4 to 5 boats, accompanied by a fully qualified guide. You are equipped with neoprene suits and shoes, a safety jacket and a helmet. The course which you take is chosen according to the water levels and experience of the participants.

Canyoning

A not-so-gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into the mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides – just make sure you choose a warm day! You will make your way along rivers and rapids, using the river bed as a natural obstacle course. Not suitable for very young children, but anyone over the age of about eight can take the (very cold) plunge and try canyoning. With the safety of a guide, choose from short beginners’ routes or longer ones for the more adventurous. Different companies will have their own policies on age limits, but usually, unless they are booked onto a children's activity course, anyone under the age of about 14 years old will have to be accompanied by an adult. A basic level of swimming ability is required for safety reasons. 

Hydro speeding

Hydro speeding is one of the newer 'extreme' water sports to hit the market. It's a fun and exhilarating way to get yourselves down a river using a large float, which bears a resemblance to a bodyboard – be ready to cling on for dear life as you send yourself hurtling down the rapids! This activity is a little more demanding physically than rafting or canoe rafting, but allows you to discover the unique sensation of surfing down white water rivers. It is also accessible to all, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves.