Méribel

Les 3 Vallées

Larger than Life

By Robert Choquette & Marilyn Griffiths, Special Contributors

Les 3 Vallées claims to be the world’s largest interconnected ski area—and, if you’ve ever visited, you’ll be able to attest that this is indeed true and not just some over-the-top marketing ploy. With 600 km of runs, the area is so incredibly vast, you’d never be able to cover it all in a single visit. From the high-altitude wide-open snowfields, a multitude of lifts and runs appear, looking like tiny dots off in the distance. Les 3 Vallées offers a whopping 105 square kilometres of lift-accessible terrain, including 25 summits and six glaciers. This region is favourable in all kinds of mountain weather too. If the snow socks in and visibility is bad, you can head way down to the lower tree-lined runs. On beautiful, sunny days, it’s the perfect time to explore the open snowfields located high above. With tons of options, you’ll never have to take a day off!

Méribel is definitely the best option when it comes to accommodations. Not only is it perfectly situated in the very heart of Les 3 Vallées, it also has its own great selection of extensive slopes, located right at its doorstep. In addition to the charming chalet-style architecture in Méribel, good shopping and a lively après-ski scene make it a sure bet for a great vacation.

Brides-les-Bains is another good spot for lodging. This stylish and comfortable hot springs spa town is tucked about 850 m beneath Méribel. It’s a fairly quiet hamlet that doesn’t offer much in terms of nightlife, but it’s the perfect springboard to skiing. Simply grab a 20-minute gondola lift from the center of town right up to Méribel, where you’ll have access to the magnificent 3 Vallées.