Getting Around the Three Valleys: Méribel Connections Explained
Planning a ski trip to Méribel often comes with one big question: how easy is it to get around the Three Valleys? Whether you want to ski over to Courchevel, explore Val Thorens, or simply find the quickest way to La Folie Douce, here’s everything you need to know.
And once you’ve got your routes sorted, choosing the right base is just as important. If you’re searching for a hotel à Méribel or comparing Méribel hotels France, you’ll find plenty of central and ski-in ski-out options, from 3 star hotels in Méribel to luxury chalets.
Can you ski from Méribel to Courchevel?
Yes, Méribel is directly linked to Courchevel via lifts and pistes. From the centre of Méribel, take the Saulire Express gondola up to the Saulire summit. From there, you can drop into Courchevel via pistes such as Creux and Combe Saulire.
This quick link is one of the reasons ski hotels Méribel are so popular — you can ski straight out of town and be in Courchevel in under half an hour.
Can you ski from Méribel to Val Thorens?
Yes, Méribel connects to Val Thorens through Mottaret. From Méribel, ski towards Mont Vallon or Côte Brune, then follow signs to Val Thorens. Some routes pass through Les Menuires on the way.
How long does it take? Around one to one and a half hours of steady skiing from Méribel centre to Val Thorens. Staying in a Méribel hotel close to the lifts makes the journey much easier.
How to get from Val Thorens to Méribel
Simply reverse the route: ski out of Val Thorens via Côte Brune or Plein Sud lifts and follow the signs to Méribel or Mottaret.
Tip: lifts back to Méribel get busy in the afternoon. Always allow extra time to avoid being stuck in the wrong valley — unless you fancy an expensive taxi ride back to your hotel in Méribel.
How long does it take to ski between resorts?
- Méribel to Courchevel: 20–30 minutes
- Méribel to Val Thorens: 1–1.5 hours
- Val Thorens to Méribel: 1–1.5 hours
Your timings depend on lift queues, snow conditions, and how directly you ski. Guests staying in Méribel hotels ski in ski out locations can make the most of their time on snow.
La Folie Douce Méribel: how to get there
On skis: Folie Douce sits at the mid-station of the Saulire Express gondola, making it an easy ski-in stop from both Méribel and Courchevel.
Without skis: non-skiers can ride the Saulire Express gondola up from Méribel centre and walk straight into the venue. Pedestrian lift passes are available. For après-ski fans, staying in one of the best hotels in Méribel means you’re only minutes away.
Where is the Snowbus Méribel pick-up?
The Snowbus is a free shuttle linking Méribel Centre, Méribel Village, and Mottaret. Stops are clearly marked and timetables are available at bus stops and via the tourist office.
This service is especially useful if you’re staying in one of the hotels in Méribel further from the lifts.
Final Tips for Getting Around Méribel
- Always check lift closing times before skiing to another valley.
- Use the official 3 Vallées piste map or app to plan routes.
- Non-skiers can explore easily with the Snowbus and pedestrian lift passes.
From centrally located 3 star hotels in Méribel to slopeside ski hotels Méribel, the resort makes a perfect base for exploring the Three Valleys. Whether you’re skiing to Courchevel for lunch, heading to Val Thorens for high-altitude snow, or dancing at La Folie Douce, Méribel keeps you connected to it all.
