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Méribel Mottaret Ski Holidays
Méribel -Mottaret is one of 6 ski resorts located in the vast Three Valleys ski area, one of the biggest and most recognised ski areas in the world. One of the smaller villages in the ski area, it was built in 1972 as a satellite resort for the larger and more popular known Méribel . Méribel -Mottaret is perfectly located at the top of the Méribel Valley, giving it a desirable central location within the Three Valleys. Sitting at an altitude of 1,700 metres, it has excellent snow conditions which see the season between the last week of April and early May on occasion. More commonly referred to as simply Mottaret, it has managed to forge its own identity, stepping a tad bit out of the shadows of its administrator, Méribel . Its biggest appeal is its central location in the Three Valleys allowing for quick and direct access to Courchevel and Val Thorens; in fact, it takes as much time to access the top of the Courchevel Valley from Mottaret as it would take from all the other Courchevel villages. Mottaret also has a free shuttle bus connection with Méribel. The majority of the accommodation on Mottaret is ski-in, ski-out and with all local amenities close by, nowhere is really too far out of reach. The ski area in Mottaret is divided into two parts; Le Laitelet and Le Chatelet. The former was the original ski area developed for Mottaret with the former later on added as part of the redevelopment plan in preparation for the 1992 Winter Olympics. There are 80 kilometres of pistes here serviced by 21 lifts and the pistes here are best suited for intermediate and advanced skiers. Beginners will also find easy blue and green runs in Mottaret but may need to head down to Méribel to access the nursery slopes for confidence building.
The highest, central hub of the Méribel with easy access to the other resorts in the Three Valleys
Jane Bolton, Product Director
Mountain facts
Méribel Mottaret has around 70km of slopes within its immediate vicinity, offering everything from confidence-building blues, like Truite and Aigle, to long reds like Combe du Vallon that drop 800 vertical metres back to the village. The local terrain in Mottaret rises to nearly 3,000m at Mont Vallon, where (predominantly) north-facing slopes keep conditions cold and grippy, even during warm spells. Just above the village itself, there is a mix of varied runs that cut across the Combes, Plattières, and Châtelet sections of the resort. Méribel Mottaret’s location also means skiers can move quite easily within the Three Valleys. It benefits from the ski area's efficient lift network, and its height makes it easy to connect key areas, like nearby Mont Vallon, Tougnéte, and Saulire.
Snow conditions in Méribel Mottaret
Mottaret is one of Méribel Valley’s most snow-sure bases, thanks to its impressive resort height. At 1,750m, the extra height makes all the difference when we’re talking snow reliability. The upper terrain around Mont Vallon is largely north-facing, which helps preserve cold, consistent snow throughout the season. Lower and mid-mountain areas benefit from strong snowmaking facilities, ensuring good conditions on the pistes even during leaner periods. Simply put, Méribel Mottaret combines genuine high-altitude skiing with some serious snow-making muscle.
Skiing in Méribel Mottaret
Méribel Mottaret is all about convenience. At the resort, you’re right in the centre of the Méribel Valley with lifts allowing quick and easy connections to the rest of the ski area with zero fuss.
- The nursery slopes and learning areas in Méribel Mottaret are conveniently located near the village, offering wide, easy slopes that facilitate smooth progression. These areas include the Truite, a green slope that winds through a wooded area with scenic views of the Saulire and Table Verte (accessible via the draglift), an easy blue located just above the resort that's perfect for practising all the ploughs, runs and turns.
- Mottaret is almost perfect for intermediate-level skiers. The terrain here is full of long, rolling blues and varied reds that weave through the wooded areas and open bowls. The runs around Combes, Plattières and Châtelet are a top favourite for cruisy, enjoyable laps. Most slopes are spacious and well-groomed, making them ideal for refining your technique.
- Advanced skiers have plenty to shout about here, too. With easy access to Mont Vallon, which rises to almost 3,000m, there's a good selection of steep descents, often kept in good conditions, thanks to its north-facing position and dependable snow. The area also features the Bartavelle and Combe Vallon pistes, which dish out thrilling runs without the need to venture far from the village. Off-piste adventurers, the areas beneath Mont Vallon, the back bowls towards Mottaret, and the Vallon du Fruit provide natural snow conditions that make for a memorable expedition. As always, we strongly recommend bringing a guide with you to map out the best routes and assess safety and snow stability.
Snowboarding in Méribel Mottaret
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Snowboarding in Méribel Mottaret is smooth, varied and well-suited to riders who want easy access to high-altitude terrain without the faff.
- There is a decent selection of cruisy blue and red runs perfect for carving around Mottaret, with the Combes and Plattières sectors especially great for long, flowing turns with wide, forgiving terrain. Also, the lift system here is modern and rider-friendly, with very few flats, so riders don't have to de-board.
- Seasoned riders have Mont Valons' north-facing runs to keep them occupied. Plus, the mountain offers steep powder bowls and natural drops when conditions permit, and the areas around Vallon du Fruit and Côte Brune provide enjoyable freeride opportunities with varied snow conditions.
Accommodation in Méribel Mottaret
Erna Low offers a selection of modern, conveniently located accommodations in Méribel Mottaret, primarily comprising hotels and self-catering apartments. The majority of residences in the resort sit close to the lifts, offering ski-in, ski-out access.
All accommodation in Méribel Mottaret
What's available at Méribel Mottaret ski resort?
Après-ski in Méribel Mottaret
The après scene in Méribel-Mottaret is unsurprisingly relaxed and perfectly pitched for skiers who prefer sociable bars to late-night partying and dancing. In short, you won’t find the wild table-dancing scenes of Val Thorens, but you’ll still get plenty of places to enjoy a few beers and Aperol spritzes when the lifts stop running for the day.
- Being in the Three Valleys, La Folie Douce is always an option for an afternoon thumping session, if you fancy it. It's only a short ski down from the Saulire Express and kicks at 3 pm every day with live music, DJ sets, cabarets - the whole lot.
- Le Rond Point des Pistes (or Ronnie’s, if you’re hip to the scene and in the know) is a Mottaret favourite. A piste-side party hub, famous for its sunny terrace and live bands, Ronnies differs from La Folie in that it's welcoming to families and often filled with locals. It’s a great place to grab a bite, too; it's known for its toasted sandwiches.
- Le Rastro is a Mottaret mainstay located right across from Plattières gondola. It's a cosy bar with authentic Savoyard vibes. A great local spot for a drink and a meal; expect wood-fired pizzas, fondue, raclette, and other traditional specialities.
Facilities in Méribel Mottaret
Méribel Mottaret offers everything you need for a smooth, convenient ski holiday. The village is compact, with a practical layout, where all essential shops and amenities, including rental shops, small supermarkets, and other attractions, are conveniently close by, making it a convenient base for skiers. Most of the cafés and restaurants are clustered in and around the main lift station, making them easily accessible when coming off the lifts. For downtime and added entertainment off the slopes, Mottaret has a small cinema and bowling alley. The resort also conveniently links to Méribel Centre via free buses, offering access to a wider range of shops, spa facilities, and indoor activities for those seeking a change of pace.
Facilities for children in Méribel Mottaret
Méribel Mottaret is brilliant for families visiting with children. It’s Famille Plus accredited, offering a practical setting for families seeking an easy and stress-free ski holiday with the kids. The compact layout means shops, supermarkets, and essentials are all within a short walk, which is especially helpful when younger children are in tow.
The village features dedicated beginner areas, complete with magic carpets and a gentle green slope, located near the resort and accommodation areas. This allows young skiers and their families to learn and progress in a safe, easily accessible environment. For off-slope entertainment in Mottaret, families will find a small cinema, bowling alley and several cafés ideal for a relaxed break.
Why choose Erna Low for Méribel Mottaret skiing holidays?
Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.
Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.
Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Fully protected bookings: We’re TOPP members and abide by their Code of Conduct.
5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.
With a quieter vibe than Méribel centre, Méribel Mottaret is great for families as well as those wanting to explore the largest ski area in the world
Rebecca Dodson, Sales Manager
