Meribel is the central resort in the world`s largest lift linked ski area, the 3 Vallees. The resort holds the world record for high capacity gondola lifts, which means it can probably transport more skiers uphill faster than any other resort. Whether such a record matters to the average skier or boarder is open to debate, but the practical off-shoot is that queues are now almost unheard of and skiers get to ski more terrain than anywhere else faster than anywhere else, which must be worth something. The Meribel valley was `discovered` in 1938 by future British Colonel Peter Lindsay, who returned after the war to oversee its early development in partnership with French architect Christian Durupt. Although the men`s plans were modest compared to what was to come, they did begin the task of building the resort in a traditional style, with gabled slate roofs and white pine and stone facades. Along with its perfect location, Meribel`s decision to stick to these building requirements through its 50+ year history and through the era of the rec-tangular concrete tower block has won it ever more fans over the years. Although tempted to construct the inevitable altitude `satellite off-shoot`, Meribel Mottaret at 1800 metres in 1972, the resort ensured the giant apartment blocks still had chalet style design. Apres Ski Both Meribel and Mottaret have buzzing night life with bars and clubs open until the early hours • Jack's Bar, Scotts, the Doron Pub and Dicks T-Bar nightclub. Le Rond Point is renowned for its live music and crazy theme nights. Eating Out A wide choice of over 65 restaurants and bars in both Meribel and Mottaret • 3-course set menus for approx. €40 • Local specialities including fondues and raclette with wine around €30 • Pizzas around €10 • Chez Kiki, La Taverne, Le Refuge, Pizza Express. Activities Swimming-pool • Olympic ice skating rink • Hang-gliding • Parasailing tandem flights • Snowshoeing (Mottaret) • Ten-pin bowling (Meribel) Other Amenities • Over 90 shops in Meribel • Cinema often with original English films • Snow-shoe excursions • Tourist flights over 3 Valleys area and to Mont Blanc • Twice weekly market in Meribel Tues and Fri • Internet access in various bars and the Tourist Office |
