Meribel is no stranger to ski lovers. Tucked at the heart of the world’s largest ski area, the Three Valleys, Meribel offers unrivalled skiing for every style and skill level. But if you’re an experienced intermediate or seasoned skier, you’ll know that not all pistes are created equal.
Whether you’re chasing untouched corduroy, scenic descents, or a leg burning challenge, we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll reveal Meribel’s best ski runs, with a local’s eye for the quiet corners, secret stashes of snow and hidden gems that too often get overlooked.
What Are Meribel’s Best Ski Runs?
For those wondering what the best ski runs in Meribel actually are, here’s our top list, designed for confident skiers who want to avoid the queues and make the most of every minute on the mountain.
1. Combe du Vallon (Red) – Mottaret’s Best-Kept Secret
Accessible from the top of Mont Vallon, this high-altitude red run is long, wide, and almost always quiet. It’s a serious thigh-burner, especially in fresh snow, and the views over the Gebroulaz Glacier are nothing short of spectacular. If you’re lucky enough to catch it first thing after a snowfall, you’re sure to head back up the top to do it all over again right away.
To get your thighs ready for the burn, check out a pre-ski holiday exercises and be in the best shape to make the most of your day on the mountain.
2. Jerusalem (Blue) – A Local Favourite
We couldn’t leave Jerusalem off of our list of the best pistes in Meribel. Tucked away, a short ski from the top of the Tougnète 2 chairlift, this classic blue run dips and weaves right down to the Saint Martin Express when you can either keep heading down into Saint Martin De-Belleville or hop back on the chairlift, back up to do it all over again.
Don’t forget to smile for the camera as you reach the summit and check out your group photo once you get off the lift!
Whilst it’s a popular slope for those who’ve discovered it, it does often go unnoticed by the crowds heading over to Les Menuires. It’s a seriously fun run but also peaceful, and the snow holds up beautifully well into the afternoon.
Bonus slope: If you love the rolling terrain of Jerusalem, you’re sure to enjoy Choucas. This scenic blue, located at the top of Cherferie and also accessible via Tougnète 2, offers a fun alternative. Instead of heading down towards Saint Martin de Belleville, bear right and loop back towards Meribel. Expect big, rolling kickers and wide-open piste perfect for large carving turns.
3. La Face (Black) – A Steep, Empty Playground
Starting just above the Olympic chair, La Face offers a sharp and often untouched descent, ideal for advanced skiers who want to avoid the busier Saulire side. It’s short but serious, and rarely busy. If you like a high speed challenge, this one’s for you.
4. Roc de Fer (Red/Black) – World Cup-Calibre Skiing
Host to multiple World Cup and Olympic events, this run is often overlooked by recreational skiers, perhaps because it looks intimidating from the lift. But it’s a gem, and one of the best-maintained pistes in the valley. Take the Olympic Express to get there and enjoy carving long, sweeping turns away from the buzz of Meribel Centre.
5. Bartavelle (Black) – Fast and Fierce
To access Bartavelle, take the Combes chairlift out of Mottaret, then veer right to link up with the Roc de Tougne double drag lift. This black run is a favourite among advanced skiers thanks to its steep pitch and natural moguls. Located in the ‘Back to the Wild’ zone, it’s left ungroomed, offering a raw, natural snow experience that holds up well all season long.
6. Pic Bleu (Blue) – Peaceful and Picturesque
For a peaceful, picturesque descent, try Pic Bleu. This tree-lined piste has stunning views, and following preservation work, now maintains even better snow conditions throughout the season
You’ll find Pic Bleu just off the top of the Loze Express chairlift. Along the way, keep an eye out for dragon sculptures tucked into the trees, which add a touch of magic for younger skiers. Midway down, there’s a peaceful picnic spot and the cosy Cabane du Pic Bleua, wooden chalet perfect for a hot drink or a quiet breather.
This piste now holds its condition well into the spring, making it a great choice for a relaxed, scenic descent at any time of the season.
The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Meribel’s Hidden Gems
Want to ski like a local? Here’s where to go where to head for all the best slopes:
Secret Powder Stashes Only Locals Know
- Mont Vallon: Drop off the sides of Combe du Vallon early on a powder day. From the top of Mont Vallon, the highest summit in the Meribel Valley, you’ll find two black runs and a red to choose from.
- Tougnete Bowl: Head skier’s left from the top of Tougnete 2 for wide, powder-filled bowls that drain into peaceful red runs.
- Under the Côte Brune Lift: An off-piste playground after a dump – just be sure to check conditions and avalanche warnings before heading off. Read our guide for a refresher on avalanche safety tips.
Early Bird Specials – Best Runs for First Tracks
- Mauduit (Red): Named after local Olympian Georges Mauduit, this long and flowing red is pristine early in the day. This scenic run stretches for around 4 kilometres, with 900-metre vertical descent from the Saulire summit all the way down to Chaudanne in Meribel Centre.
- Blanchot (Blue): Ideal for fast early laps if you’re warming up or cruising with friends locally before your morning coffee stop. Top spots for coffee nearby include Rhodos Self-Service Cafe for a relaxed, quick and easy vibe. For a slightly more elevated experience and some mouth watering cakes, try Hotel Adray Telebar or alternatively head down to Meribel Village and swing by Lodge Du Village or get a coffee to go from the Village Boulangerie.
Late Afternoon Gems – Where to Ski When Others Stop
- Lapin (Blue): Everyone heads for the Rond-Point, but Lapin down to Meribel Village stays gloriously quiet and sunny.
- Chardonneret (Red): Over in the Altiport area, this little-used run is still in great condition even at 4pm.
Crowd-Free Skiing: Best Runs by Skill Level
Advanced Skiers
- Grande Rosière: Short but intense, often forgotten in favour of the more famous runs off from Saulire.
- Bartavelle: Steep, technical, and far less used than you’d expect.
- Le Raffort Route: A wilder route back to the La Raffort village with steep sections and off-piste detours.
Intermediate Paradise
- Geai: Starting from the top of the Dent de Burgin chairlift, this smooth and often overlooked blue run winds through the trees, making it an ideal choice when visibility is low. It’s also a firm favourite for a last blast of the day before heading to enjoy Meribel’s apres scene at La Folie Douce.
- Lagopède: Mottaret-side, usually in great condition and ideal for picking up speed.
- Chardonneret: A flowing red that remains consistent and calm even in high season.
More Favourite Meribel Runs
- Faon: A mellow, less-travelled piste nestled in the Altiport sector, ideal for a breather or beginner-friendly laps with great snow.
- Altiport Sector: Tree-lined blues like Foret and Blanchot offer mellow skiing with peaceful surroundings.
- Piste des Animaux aka the Animal Run: A family favourite that’s just as fun for grown-ups that winds through the idyllic altiport forest. The perfect quiet spot for something a little different whilst skiing with the kids during peak weeks like half term.
Seasonal Secrets – When to Ski Meribel’s Best Runs
Seasonal Secrets – When to Ski Meribel’s Best RunsPeak Season
Fortunately due to the world-class lift system and expansive ski area, you’re unlikely to find too many overly crowded pistes or areas in Meribel, even in peak season. However, if you’re keen to stick to the quietest slopes possible, stick to high-altitude areas early (Mont Vallon, Saulire) and duck into tree-lined runs (Altiport, Tougnète) in the afternoons when visibility drops and the crowds peak.
Spring Skiing Gold (March–April)
It’s a fact – few things beat spring skiing in Meribel. Start high for the best conditions: Combe du Vallon, Mont Vallon, and the Côte Brune area tend to hold snow the longest. By late morning, stick to north-facing or shaded pistes for best conditions. Tree-lined runs around Altiport can stay surprisingly good, while lower south-facing slopes like Lapin are best enjoyed before lunch.
Early Season Insider Tips
The early season weeks are the ultimate time to enjoy first tracks on untouched, quiet slopes. It’s such an underrated time of year and as a result, a favourite time of the season for those in the know.
Navigation Secrets – How to Access Hidden Runs
Lifts – Avoiding the Queues
Thanks to the brilliant lift system, you’re unlikely to ever spend too long in the queue for a lift in Meribel. However, if you’re keen to be the first up the mountain, try skipping the Saulire Express in peak hours. Try hopping on lifts like Tougnète for access to high ground. The Loze chair also stays quiet and gives quick access to Courchevel-side connections.
Connection Routes Through the Three Valleys
Get there early and hop on Saulire into Courchevel before 11am, few things beat first tracks down Cruex in the morning! If you’re running a bit later and it’s peak season, take the Rhodos lift from La Chaudanne, or hop off Saulire at the mid-station and use Col de la Loze to cross into Courchevel. This is a great option if you’re skiing with less confident friends or family, as it avoids going all the way up Saulire, which can feel intimidatingly high for nervous skiers. Plus, Cruex tends to get busy and a little bumpy later in the day during peak weeks.
For a quieter connection to Val Thorens, head over via the Côte Brune lift from the centre of Mottaret.
Weather Window Opportunities
When it’s stormy up high, shelter in the trees around Altiport and Meribel Village. On bluebird days, lap Mont Vallon until your legs can’t take any more!
Local Tips for Maximum Enjoyment
Equipment Recommendations for Meribel Terrain
If you’re opting to rent your ski gear rather than buy, check out our ski rental page for our top recommended hire shops in Meribel. At places like FreeSki, you’ll have your pick of the bunch when it comes to high-quality gear. Whether you’re keen to try out some off-piste kit for part of the week or just stick to what you know, they’re sure to have exactly what you need, paired with great service and expert advice.
Safety Considerations for Off-the-Beaten-Path Skiing
Always check the avalanche bulletins via Météo France, and if you’re heading off-piste, hiring a guide is highly recommended.
Best Mountain Restaurants Near Secret Runs
A perfect run deserves an equally perfect refuel. Whether you’re looking to duck into a cosy alpine restaurant or basking on a sunny terrace, these mountain restaurants pair beautifully with the quieter pistes nearby.
- Roc Tania: A hidden gem for tartiflette and vin chaud near the Dou des Lanches lift. There’s also a spacious terrace, the perfect spot for basking in the sun after a morning exploring the quieter slopes near Col de la Loze.
- Le Clos Bernard: Set deep in the Altiport forest and accessible via gentle blue runs like Blanchot or the Piste des Animaux, Le Clos Bernard is a firm favourite with locals and in-the-know visitors alike. The wooden chalet, roaring fire, and cosy interiors give it a magical feel, especially when snow is falling outside. The menu leans traditional, with standout steaks, fondue, and homemade desserts. Booking ahead is a must, especially during school holidays.
- Chalet Tonia: Perched up near the top of Mottaret, a ski down the top of Tougnète 2 or just moment from the summit of the Combes chairlift – Chalet Tonia is a great stop if you’re exploring red runs like Chardonneret or heading over towards Jerusalem or further afield after your pitstop. It’s unpretentious and good value, with proper home-style French cooking, think grilled meats, fresh salads, and big plates of frites. There’s usually no need to book, and you can often grab a sunny seat on the terrace even on busy days. Service is often quick too, so you can be back on the slopes before your legs cool off.
For even more great spots to eat both on and off the slopes, check out our full guide to the best restaurants in Meribel.
Why Ski with Local Experts§
Even seasoned skiers can miss Meribel’s best-kept secrets. Guided ski tours and private instructors know the terrain inside out and they’ll help you find everything from hidden powder stashes to lift-skipping shortcuts. Whether you’re looking to explore new areas or head off-piste, skiing with a local expert is the best way to experience the mountain safely and make the most of every run.
Conclusion
So there you have it, Meribel’s best ski runs, fully rounded up. If you’re ready to clip in and explore the slopes for yourself, take a look at our handpicked Meribel chalets and their remaining availability. They’re the perfect match for the resort’s top terrain, offering a peaceful, private retreat that hotels just can’t match, ideal after a full day discovering everything Meribel has to offer.
If you have any questions at all, simply get in contact and a member of our team will be pleased to help you.
Plus, to make the most of the best pistes in Meribel, be sure to read our top ski apps blog, from tracking your runs to navigating the best routes and local landmarks.
FAQs
What are the best ski runs in Meribel for intermediates?
Try Geai, Jerusalem, and Lagopède for uncrowded, confidence-boosting reds.
Where can I find quiet black runs in Meribel?
Head to La Face, Bartavelle or Grande Rosière. They’re steep, heart racing, and wonderfully quiet.
Is there good skiing late in the season?
Absolutely. Meribel has an excellent historical snow record, with consistently reliable coverage throughout the season. It’s not uncommon for late spring to deliver a surprise dump or two, perfect for end-of-season powder laps.
What’s the best area for powder days?
Mont Vallon and the Tougnète bowls are your best bet. Get there early to make the most of it.