If you’ve ever been skiing (or even just talked about it!), you’ve probably heard of the Three Valleys. Set in the Northern French Alps, this world-famous ski area is the largest linked ski domain on the planet, offering endless runs across iconic resorts like Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens. But with so much choice, it’s easy to wonder exactly where to ski and stay in the Three Valleys to make the most of your trip.
Stay tuned for our epic round-up to ace your next ski holiday to this bucket list destination.
Updated: 29th September 2025
Courchevel in the Three Valleys
Where to Ski and Stay in the Three Valleys
So, where to begin? The Three Valleys is best known for its three headline resorts: Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens. But here’s a little secret, there are actually seven resorts in the ski area! Alongside the famous names, you’ll also find the more budget-friendly Brides-les-Bains, family-friendly Les Menuires, traditional Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, and the hidden gem of Orelle, tucked away with access to Val Thorens’ slopes.
With a full area lift pass, you can then enjoy access to over 600km of slopes, enough to never have to repeat a run! Or, if you’re new to the slopes, even a local area lift pass (150km) will provide you with ample runs to get your confidence up.
The Big Three
Where to Stay in Courchevel
Courchevel has a global reputation for glitz and glamour, but there’s much more to it than Michelin-starred dining and designer boutiques. The resort is made up of four main villages, each with its own personality and appeal, all linked by lifts and a free shuttle bus service.
Le Paz @ 1300
A traditional Alpine village with cosy chalets, narrow streets, and a quieter, more authentic feel. Perfect if you want charm and character at the foot of the slopes.
Courchevel Village @ 1550
A great-value base with easy ski lift access up to 1850. Popular with families and those who want Courchevel convenience without the 1850 price tag.
Courchevel Moriond @ 1650
Known for its sunny slopes and laid-back vibe, with excellent skiing for intermediates. It’s also a lively spot for après-ski. This is where you’ll often find the seasonnaires hanging out!
Courchevel @ 1850
The world-famous heart of the resort, home to luxury hotels, chic shops, fine dining, and easy access to the full Three Valleys ski area.
Skiing in Courchevel
Our Favourite Runs in Courchevel: Where to Ski
| Run | Level | Why We Love It | How To Find It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signal-Marquis | Blue | Scenic, less crowded, good distance. Nice warm-up blue. | Above 1650 (Moriond), accessed from the Petite Bosses drag lift. |
| Creux | Blue | Long, wide, mellow descent with varied terrain. Early in the day when groomed it’s especially lovely, plus panoramic views. | From near the summit of Saulire, coming off lifts like the Saulire Express / Pas du Lac. |
| Chapelets | Red | Scenic red that’s quieter, especially early or off-peak. Some steep sections but overall very smooth. | In Courchevel Moriond area (1650) on the far side, it’s accessible from Moriond lifts. |
| Combe de la Saulire | Red | Long, varied, some steeper sections mixed with wider bowl bits. Offers a solid workout and great views. | From top of Saulire via lifts like Vizelle, Suisses, or the Saulire cable car. |
| L’Éclipse | Black | One of the longest black runs in Courchevel (~3.2 km), quite steep, partly in the forest. Demands control throughout. | Take Plantrey Chairlift, Chenus Gondola, or Bouc Blanc Chairlift. |
| Grand Couloir | Black | Very steep and exposed in sections; often ungroomed; a “badge run” if you’ve got the skill. | From the top of La Saulire cable car, look for the ridge access. |
Where to Stay in Meribel
Often called the heart of the Three Valleys, Méribel is especially popular with British skiers and snowboarders. Conceived in 1938 by British officer Colonel Peter Lindsay, it was designed as a model for a well-planned ski resort, blending convenience with Alpine charm. Today, Méribel’s wooden chalets, lively après-ski and unbeatable central location make it a favourite base, while ongoing investment in eco initiatives and infrastructure keeps the resort modern and sustainable.
Meribel by night
Les Allues @ 1100
The original Méribel village, full of rustic charm with narrow streets, traditional chalets and a relaxed, authentic feel. A great choice if you prefer a quieter base but still want easy access to the main ski area via the gondola and free shuttle.
Meribel Village @ 1400
A small, family-friendly spot with a laid-back atmosphere and good value accommodation. It’s quieter than Méribel Centre but still has easy lift access (via the Golf chair) straight into the wider Three Valleys.
Meribel Centre @ 1450
The lively heart of the resort and where you’ll find the main après-ski, shops, restaurants and nightlife. Accommodation is varied, and the central location gives direct access to the lifts and slopes.
Meribel Les Hauts @ 1600m
A little higher up, with a calmer, more residential feel compared to the centre. Good for those who want to be close to the action but prefer a quieter base with plenty of ski-in/ski-out accommodation.
Mottaret @ 1750
The highest of Méribel’s villages and the most snow-sure. Its central location in the valley makes it one of the best spots for quick access to both Courchevel and Val Thorens. Purpose-built, practical, and perfect if your priority is maximum skiing convenience.
Where to ski and stay in the Three Valleys: Meribel piste
Our Favourite Runs in Meribel: Where to Ski
| Run | Level | Why We Love It | How To Find It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roc de Fer | Blue | Long, rolling, and sunny with gorgeous valley views. It’s a confidence-builder that still feels like a proper journey. | Start from the Olympic Express chairlift above Méribel Centre. |
| Lapin | Blue | A tree-lined cruiser down to Méribel Village. Perfect in flat light or bad weather, and a gentle finish to the day. | From the Altiport area, winding into Méribel Village. |
| Mauduit | Red | Named after French Olympic skier Georges Mauduit, this run is fast, flowing, and perfect for strong carvers. | From the Saulire Express top station, descending directly into La Chaudanne. |
| Face | Black | The 1992 Olympic Ladies’ Downhill course — steep, challenging, and a true test piece for advanced skiers. | From the Roc de Fer area, above Méribel Centre. |
Where to Stay in Val Thorens
Purpose-built for high-altitude skiing, Val Thorens may not have the traditional Alpine charm of Courchevel or Méribel, but it excels where it counts most, on the slopes. At 2,300m, it’s the highest resort in Europe, guaranteeing snow-sure conditions throughout the season. Its practical, ski-in/ski-out layout makes it ideal for skiers and snowboarders who want to maximise every moment on the mountain.
Val Thorens lift, Cime Caron
Val Thorens may be a single resort, but it’s spread out over a few distinct zones, each catering to different needs. Bear in mind, you can easily walk the full length of Val Thorens in around 20 minutes!
- Le Haut (High Sector) – The upper part of the resort, closest to the main lifts and slopes. Perfect for keen skiers and snowboarders who want maximum slope time and quick access to the Three Valleys ski area. Accommodation here tends to be modern, apartment-style, and ski-in/ski-out.
- Le Centre (Central Sector) – The hub of Val Thorens, home to shops, restaurants, and the main lifts. Staying here gives easy access to amenities and the main ski network, ideal for families or first-time visitors who want convenience at every turn.
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Le Bas (Lower Sector) – Slightly lower down but still high by Alpine standards, this area is quieter, with a mix of apartments and hotels. It’s great if you prefer to be slightly removed from the busiest slopes while still within walking distance of lifts and the village centre.
- Les Balcons / Edge of Resort Apartments – Modern apartment complexes on the periphery of the resort, often with larger living spaces and terraces. Ideal for groups or longer stays where self-catering is preferred, while still being within easy reach of lifts via shuttle or short walk.
Capricorne | Libra | Verseau | Sagittaire
La Bee zip line, access via the 2 Lacs gondola or the Moutière chairlift
Our Favourite Runs in Val Thorens: Where to Ski
| Run | Level | Why We Love It | How To Find It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tetras | Blue | A long, scenic cruise perfect for warming up legs or enjoying a relaxed ski. Great for intermediates finding their rhythm. | In the Boismint area, reached via the Boismint chairlift. |
| Col de l’Audzin | Red | Starting high on the glacier, this run serves up a big-mountain feel with varied pitches and incredible views. | From the Cime Caron cable car, drop onto the glacier slopes. |
| Combe de Caron | Red | A legendary black run in Val Thorens, it’s steep at the top with technical moguls, then eases into a long descent. | Accessed from the Cime Caron cable car at 3,200m. |
Where to Stay and Ski in the Three Valleys: Is it Worth Staying in a Smaller Resort?
Staying in Courchevel, Méribel or Val Thorens means you’ll have endless accommodation choices, buzzing après-ski, and effortless access to the full Three Valleys ski area. These flagship resorts are the best-known for good reason, and they’re usually our go-to recommendations.
But if you’d prefer something a little quieter and more budget-friendly, Les Menuires is well worth considering. Sitting just below Val Thorens, it offers the perfect balance of low-key après with direct access to world-class skiing. The slopes here are varied and extensive, with plenty of challenges for advanced skiers alongside more forgiving runs for intermediates. It may not have the glitz of its neighbours, but for convenience, value, and snow-sure terrain, Les Menuires is a hidden gem.
Ready to book a stay in the Three Valleys? Contact our Ski Specialists and begin planning your next ski holiday to these iconic ski area.
A winter lover, Annie first hit the slopes in her early teens before going on to complete her ski instructor qualification and two seasons in St Anton. While she’s now most often spotted on a snowboard, Annie still thrives on the thrill of chasing fresh powder and capping off her day with a little boogie – preferably at the Krazy Kanguruh!
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