What is there to do in Méribel when you’re not skiing ?

What is there to do in Méribel-Mottaret if you don’t ski?

Although many holidaymakers come to the 3 Vallées to enjoy the ski area, a holiday in Méribel-Mottaret also offers plenty to do for those who don’t ski. From outdoor adventures and family activities to relaxing breaks, everyone can tailor their holiday to suit their own pace.

However, that would mean missing out on all the activities the mountains have to offer! Even if you’re not skiing, there are five must-try activities: tobogganing for family fun, snowshoeing to explore the snow-covered landscapes, the spa to unwind, the ice rink for a sociable get-together, and paragliding to admire the valley from the air, subject to flight and take-off conditions.

Winter sports

Before we look at activities without skis, here are a few other ways to enjoy the snow. The following sports do, however, require training and suitable equipment.

• Cross-country skiing: in Tuéda and at the Altiport, discover a different approach to winter sports. The classic style is practised mainly on marked tracks, whilst the skating style mimics the movement of a skater. Both require stamina; a taster session will teach you how to move forward, brake and tackle descents.
• Biathlon: with 13 medals, including 6 gold, at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympic Games, the French have brought new attention to this sport! It combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. At the Altiport, a supervised introductory session allows you to discover the basics with family or friends.
• Ski touring: anti-slip skins under the skis and suitable bindings allow you to ascend under your own steam. This activity is still a form of skiing and requires a good level of fitness. To get started, it’s best to use a professional guide and stick to authorised routes; open slopes do not automatically constitute authorised ascent routes.
• Telemark skiing: this downhill technique, with the heel free, is characterised by a crouched position when turning. An elegant discipline, best discovered with an instructor.
• Sledging: a guaranteed trip down memory lane! Make the most of the dedicated areas in Mottaret or try the Black Mission Forest run in Méribel, on a themed course. In Méribel-Mottaret, the ‘Himalaya by Night’ evenings let you sledge down the Little Himalaya run under the stars.

Himalaya by Night — winter 2026/2027 calendar:

The advertised price is €9.50 per run or €20 for the evening. The activity is free for children under 11 accompanied by an adult. A helmet and a sledge with metal brakes are compulsory and are not provided. Evening sessions are subject to weather and snow conditions. Please check the ‘Himalaya by Night’ information sheet from Méribel Tourisme before you go.

Other outdoor activities

• Le Ranch Nordique: at Bois d’Arbin, horse rides offer a different way to explore the snow-covered landscapes. Contact the ranch for advice on choosing a ride suited to the age and ability of the participants.
• Snowmobile tours: starting from the Hameau area in Méribel-Mottaret, Snow Biker offers guided tours. Please check the duration, package details and conditions of participation when booking.
• Snowshoeing: whether on your own along suitable trails or with a guide, snowshoeing allows you to take the time to admire the mountains. Choose a route that suits your ability and check that it is open before setting off.
• Groomed footpaths: around Tuéda and in the Altiport forest, the winter trails offer lovely walks without skis. The Sentier des Animaux, at the Altiport, is particularly ideal for families wishing to discover the mountain wildlife. Check the map and trail conditions; suitable footwear is essential.
• Walks with a pedestrian pass: take the lifts open to pedestrians to admire the peaks or reach a mountain restaurant. For the 2026/2027 winter season, prices from Mottaret are €31.40 for one day, €45.80 for two days and €95.30 for six days, for children aged 5 and over. A ride on the Pas du Lac gondola is available for €17.50. Check the prices and access to the ski lifts with the Méribel-Mottaret pedestrian pass. 
• Strolls through the villages: stone and timber chalets, shops, regional specialities and local heritage offer plenty of reasons to wander around Mottaret, Méribel or the other villages in the valley. To explore further, check out the FACIM’s programme of guided tours.
• Yoga, indoors or outdoors: treat yourself to a break to breathe, stretch and refocus. Depending on the instructors and the weather, sessions take place indoors or in the open air. Check out the wellness activities in Méribel to find out what’s on offer during your stay.
• Paragliding: a tandem flight offers a different perspective on the peaks. Please note: some winter packages require a ski take-off. If you don’t ski, please let the operator know so they can check that a suitable package is available for you. Flights are weather-dependent.
• Aircraft flights: enquire with the Altiport operators about introductory flights, routes and availability during your stay.
• Horse-drawn sleigh rides: Attelages Molinas offers rides through the Altiport forest, meeting near the restaurant Le Blanchot. For the 2026/2027 winter season, the activity is scheduled to run from 28 December 2026 to 11 April 2027, subject to snow conditions, at €60 for 30 minutes for a sleigh carrying four adults.
• Dog sledding: this is a dream experience, but Méribel Tourisme states that it is not available in Méribel. If you’re tempted, ask the Tourist Office about options in neighbouring resorts and plan your journey before booking.
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Guidelines for organising your outdoor activities

The walk durations listed below are suggestions to help you plan your day, not guaranteed service times. Prices are those published at the time of verification on 7 October 2026; where a 2026/2027 offer has not been confirmed, this is indicated.

Indoor activities

• The swimming pool: with its 25-metre pool, a slide open to children aged 6 and over in the afternoons, and a paddling pool, Méribel’s swimming pool appeals to swimmers and families alike. For the 2026/2027 winter season, it is scheduled to be open from 5 December 2026 to 17 April 2027, from 10.00 am to 7.00 pm, staying open until 8.00 pm on Wednesdays. Admission costs €7.50 per adult and €5.50 for 5–17-year-olds; it is free for children under 5 and those aged 75 and over. Aquagym, aquabike and swimming lessons round off the programme, subject to booking. A 25-metre pool is not an Olympic-sized pool, which is 50 metres long.
• The ice rink: at the Olympic Park, experience the ice that hosted ice hockey matches during the 1992 Albertville Olympic Games. A fun outing for beginners and regulars alike during public sessions.
• The climbing wall: also situated at the Olympic Park, it’s a great way to try out or practise the sport. Supervised sessions are offered by instructors; please enquire about access conditions and the necessary equipment.
• Bowling: enjoy a game with friends or family at the Olympic Park. Child-friendly facilities mean even the youngest children can take part.
• The cinema: check the programme for cinemas in Méribel and Mottaret to choose a screening during your stay.
• Cultural visits: a small valley, but plenty to discover about the local culture! The Musée des Allues, the Raffort mill and sawmill, chapels and the villages’ heritage: check opening times and scheduled tours. Some sites can only be viewed from the outside.
• Concerts and shows: the bars and the resort’s cultural programme offer further opportunities to go out. Find events taking place during your stay in the Méribel Tourisme calendar.

What to do in Méribel in bad weather?

When the peaks are hidden in the clouds, there are four indoor activities to help you make the most of the day:

• The Parc Olympique swimming pool, for a swim or some fun with the children.
• The ice rink, for a spot of indoor skating.
• The bowling alley, for a friendly competition with family or friends.
• The cinema, to settle down in the warmth and watch a film.

Savoyard cuisine

A stay in Méribel is also an opportunity to discover the flavours of Savoie. Fondue, raclette, tartiflette, crozets and local cheeses invite you to linger over a meal in a convivial atmosphere. You can also do your shopping in the resort’s shops and enjoy a meal in your holiday flat.

For lunch with a view, choose a mountain-top restaurant accessible on foot. Check access with your ski pass and the return times of the ski lifts. During the busiest periods, remember to book your table.

Bars and après-ski

You don’t need to have spent the day on the slopes to enjoy après-ski! In Mottaret and Méribel-Centre, treat yourself to a hot chocolate, an aperitif or an evening of live music, whichever takes your fancy.

The atmosphere varies between hotel lounges, bars and pubs. Check the programme during your stay to find out about concerts and entertainment. If you choose a venue at a higher altitude, check that it’s accessible on foot and note the time of the last lift back down.

The spas of Méribel and the 3 Vallées

After a walk or simply to treat yourself to a break, the wellness centres are the perfect place to slow down.

• At the Méribel Olympic Park, My Spa Pure Altitude offers two saunas, two steam rooms, a relaxation area with a herbal tea bar and relaxation facilities, including hot tubs. For the 2026/2027 winter season, the centre is scheduled to be open from 5 December 2026 to 17 April 2027, every day from 2 pm to 8 pm, at a cost of €24 per entry, including a bathrobe and towel. It is open to guests aged 16 and over; no booking is required for the relaxation area, whilst massages and treatments are available à la carte.
• Le Kaïla, a 5-star hotel in Méribel-Centre, features a NUXE spa and a water park with an indoor pool, counter-current swimming, a jacuzzi and a hammam. For day-use access without accommodation, please enquire directly with the hotel regarding the terms and conditions, available time slots and rates applicable during the 2026/2027 winter season: access to the swimming pool should not be assumed to be included with any treatment.
• The AlpenRuitor, a 4-star hotel in Méribel-Mottaret, offers a spa with a sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, sensory shower and treatment rooms. The treatment menu features brands such as Dermalogica and Omnisens. Méribel Tourisme has announced that the spa will be open from 17 December 2026 to 17 April 2027, from 10.30 am to 8 pm, for guests aged 12 and over. Book your treatment and check the access conditions for non-residents.

To round off your relaxation experience, explore the wellness facilities in Méribel and enquire at establishments in other resorts within the 3 Vallées.

The mountains are about so much more than just skiing! Families can enjoy a mix of tobogganing, walking trails, swimming and bowling. Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy with snowshoeing, rock climbing or trying out Nordic disciplines. Those seeking relaxation can enjoy spas, yoga and traditional Savoyard cuisine. From Méribel-Mottaret, create a holiday that suits you, combining the great outdoors, new experiences and quality time together.