MERIBEL MOTTARET - Introduction
Mottaret is at the heart of the largest ski area in the world, the fabulous Trois Vallees. The twin resorts of Méribel and Mottaret lie in the middle valley of the Trois Vallees, with Mottaret being 300m higher up the valley than its more famous sister. Mottaret is a purpose built resort with a great selection of modern style apartments and hotels. Both Méribel and Mottaret are extremely popular with British skiers and boarders, and have a strangely British feel to them, so much so that even the locals speak in English.Excellent apres ski available. So if you are looking for a friendly destination with extensive skiing, for a weekend break, a week-long holiday or even more, then look no further, Mottaret is sure to have something for you.
Skiing
The skiing in Mottaret is fantastic and is a haven for beginner and intermediate skiers with all runs leading back to the main lifts and centre of resort. The pistes are generally wide, gentle and very well groomed and the upper slopes are perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers to stretch their legs. Either side of the valley you will find good cruising runs and links to the other valleys. Skipping over to Courchevel for lunch or doing afternoon tea in Val Thorens is all part of the fun of skiing in the Trois Vallees. Hire yourself a guide and a never ending choice of easily accessible off piste slopes opens up, offering challenges for experts and confident intermediates alike. Off - piste enthusiasts can enjoy the Mt. Vallon face above Mottaret.
Snowboarding
Every level of boarder is catered for with gentle cruising runs for the beginners to the great snowboard park located on the upper slopes of Mottaret. The off piste offers endless opportunities, even for the daring intermediate!
Ski Schools
There is a great choice of ski schools available in Mottaret and Meribel and all offer a professional service with an array of different prices. SkiExtras recommends Magic ski School, however lesson places are limited and booking is essential. It is recommended that you book your lessons well in advance of departure especially in the peak holiday period.
Eating Out
With around 80 restaurants on offer in the valley, you will never be short of somewhere to dine out. There are fashionable pizzerias, lively café bars and gourmet restaurants, so whether you are looking for food as fuel or a full-on dining experience, both Méribel and Mottaret have something to offer. Although there is a world of dining options on offer, don’t forget to try some of the excellent local Savoyard cuisine. Many of the restaurants can be accessed on skis, so if you haven’t time to visit them at night, you could pop in for lunch. Conversely there are several mountain huts that you really need to get to on skis or a board, so a good map and a plan of attack may be in order, if you want to get the most from the dining experiences available!
Bars and clubs
Between Mottaret and Méribel there is plenty of nightlife on offer to entertain even the most hardcore party-goer. Straight off the slopes there are a number bustling venues, including the Rond Point and as the night comes many more come to life. You can really let your hair down in lots of places, but the Doran pub and Jacks are highly recommended, as is the legendary Dick’s T Bar.
Off the slopes
Away from the slopes you will find there is much to do, with everything from relaxing spas and massages to adrenalin filled adventure sports from Ice-Karting to Sky Diving. There is a leisure centre with pool, bowling and a cinema. You can even enjoy a visit to the Casino in Brides les Bains.