{"id":14771,"date":"2025-09-29T13:13:16","date_gmt":"2025-09-29T13:13:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.skiworld.co.uk\/blog\/?p=14771"},"modified":"2025-10-28T10:13:49","modified_gmt":"2025-10-28T10:13:49","slug":"where-to-ski-and-stay-in-the-three-valleys-complete-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.skiworld.co.uk\/blog\/where-to-ski-and-stay-in-the-three-valleys-complete-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Where to Ski and Stay in the Three Valleys: Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019ve ever been skiing (or even just talked about it!), you\u2019ve 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, M\u00e9ribel and Val Thorens. But with so much choice, it\u2019s easy to wonder exactly where to ski and stay in the Three Valleys to make the most of your trip.<\/p>\n

Stay tuned for our epic round-up to ace your next ski holiday to this bucket list destination.<\/p>\n

Updated: 29th September 2025<\/em><\/p>\n

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Courchevel in the Three Valleys<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Where to Ski and Stay in the Three Valleys<\/h2>\n

So, where to begin? The Three Valleys is best known for its three headline resorts: Courchevel, M\u00e9ribel, and Val Thorens. But here\u2019s a little secret, there are actually seven resorts in the ski area! Alongside the famous names, you\u2019ll 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\u2019 slopes.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

The Big Three<\/h2>\n

Where to Stay in Courchevel<\/h3>\n

Courchevel<\/a> has a global reputation for glitz and glamour, but there\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Le Paz @ 1300<\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Courchevel Village @ 1550<\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Benjamin<\/a> | Samuel<\/a> | Jacques<\/a><\/p>\n

Courchevel Moriond @ 1650<\/h4>\n

Known for its sunny slopes and laid-back vibe, with excellent skiing for intermediates. It\u2019s also a lively spot for apr\u00e8s-ski. This is where you’ll often find the seasonnaires hanging out!<\/p>\n

Estrella<\/a><\/p>\n

Courchevel @ 1850<\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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Skiing in Courchevel<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Our Favourite Runs in Courchevel: Where to Ski<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Run<\/th>\nLevel<\/th>\nWhy We Love It<\/th>\nHow To Find It<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
Signal-Marquis<\/td>\nBlue<\/td>\nScenic, less crowded, good distance. Nice warm-up blue.<\/td>\nAbove 1650 (Moriond), accessed from the Petite Bosses drag lift.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Creux<\/td>\nBlue<\/td>\nLong, wide, mellow descent with varied terrain. Early in the day when groomed it\u2019s especially lovely, plus panoramic views.<\/td>\nFrom near the summit of Saulire, coming off lifts like the Saulire Express \/ Pas du Lac.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Chapelets<\/td>\nRed<\/td>\nScenic red that\u2019s quieter, especially early or off-peak. Some steep sections but overall very smooth.<\/td>\nIn Courchevel Moriond area (1650) on the far side, it’s accessible from Moriond lifts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Combe de la Saulire<\/td>\nRed<\/td>\nLong, varied, some steeper sections mixed with wider bowl bits. Offers a solid workout and great views.<\/td>\nFrom top of Saulire via lifts like Vizelle, Suisses, or the Saulire cable car.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
L\u2019\u00c9clipse<\/td>\nBlack<\/td>\nOne of the longest black runs in Courchevel (~3.2 km), quite steep, partly in the forest. Demands control throughout.<\/td>\nTake Plantrey Chairlift, Chenus Gondola, or Bouc Blanc Chairlift.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Grand Couloir<\/td>\nBlack<\/td>\nVery steep and exposed in sections; often ungroomed; a \u201cbadge run\u201d if you’ve got the skill.<\/td>\nFrom the top of La Saulire cable car, look for the ridge access.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

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Where to Stay in Meribel<\/h3>\n

Often called the heart of the Three Valleys, M\u00e9ribel<\/a> 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, M\u00e9ribel\u2019s wooden chalets, lively apr\u00e8s-ski and unbeatable central location make it a favourite base, while ongoing investment in eco initiatives and infrastructure keeps the resort modern and sustainable.<\/p>\n

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Meribel by night<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Les Allues @ 1100<\/h4>\n

The original M\u00e9ribel 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.<\/p>\n

Meribel Village @ 1400<\/h4>\n

A small, family-friendly spot with a laid-back atmosphere and good value accommodation. It\u2019s quieter than M\u00e9ribel Centre but still has easy lift access (via the Golf chair) straight into the wider Three Valleys.<\/p>\n

Les Fermes de Meribel<\/a><\/p>\n

Meribel Centre @ 1450<\/h4>\n

The lively heart of the resort and where you\u2019ll find the main apr\u00e8s-ski, shops, restaurants and nightlife. Accommodation is varied, and the central location gives direct access to the lifts and slopes.<\/p>\n

Brioche<\/a> | Eleanor<\/a> | Virage<\/a><\/p>\n

Meribel Les Hauts @ 1600m<\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Mottaret @ 1750<\/h4>\n

The highest of M\u00e9ribel\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Andre<\/a> | Simone<\/a><\/p>\n

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Where to ski and stay in the Three Valleys: Meribel piste<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Our Favourite Runs in Meribel: Where to Ski<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Run<\/th>\nLevel<\/th>\nWhy We Love It<\/th>\nHow To Find It<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
Roc de Fer<\/td>\nBlue<\/td>\nLong, rolling, and sunny with gorgeous valley views. It\u2019s a confidence-builder that still feels like a proper journey.<\/td>\nStart from the Olympic Express chairlift above M\u00e9ribel Centre.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lapin<\/td>\nBlue<\/td>\nA tree-lined cruiser down to M\u00e9ribel Village. Perfect in flat light or bad weather, and a gentle finish to the day.<\/td>\nFrom the Altiport area, winding into M\u00e9ribel Village.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Mauduit<\/td>\nRed<\/td>\nNamed after French Olympic skier Georges Mauduit, this run is fast, flowing, and perfect for strong carvers.<\/td>\nFrom the Saulire Express top station, descending directly into La Chaudanne.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Face<\/td>\nBlack<\/td>\nThe 1992 Olympic Ladies\u2019 Downhill course \u2014 steep, challenging, and a true test piece for advanced skiers.<\/td>\nFrom the Roc de Fer area, above M\u00e9ribel Centre.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

<\/h3>\n

Where to Stay in Val Thorens<\/h3>\n

Purpose-built for high-altitude skiing, Val Thorens<\/a> may not have the traditional Alpine charm of Courchevel or M\u00e9ribel, but it excels where it counts most, on the slopes. At 2,300m, it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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Val Thorens lift, Cime Caron<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Val Thorens may be a single resort, but it\u2019s 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!<\/p>\n