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Here we are, 2 years after the last ski holidays, and you have enventually booked your ski holidays! If the sensations skiing provides come back quickly, it is essential to get prepared to a mountain trip to avoid any bad surprises...

And this year, we want to shed some light on a few activities that are not related to skiing, so that you can bring a bit of originality to your holidays!

Before your leave, make sure you're ready!

- That will sound obvious to the most of us, but it is always worth a reminder: in the mountains, it's cold! With a few exceptions, temperatures remain in the -10°C to 5°C range in Meribel-Mottaret. You should then gear up accordingly and wear several layers of technical clothes, which are more efficient, than one single sweater, be it a warm one. About that, if you do not like to invest in a full ski outfit, why not just rent it with SkiChic?!

- To have a safe trip, do not forget the usual recommandations before driving: check your vehicule carefully, notably the tyre pressure, the presence of the safety kit, and the condition of your battery. If you want to make sure your car remains in a covered parking, just rent one with the agency. A new law has been implemented for this winter: snow equipments are compulsory! From now on, from November 1st to March 31st, vehicules driving through some French departements, such as Savoie, need to have special equipments (check the "access by road" section our access page).

- Do not forget to take care of your activities too! Book whatever can be booked, especially during school holidays. ESF ski lessons can quickly be fully-booked, just like horse-related activities (horse-back riding, pony-sleding etc.) or paragliding flights. Just make sure to book in advance to avoid any frustration!

On the slopes, be cautious...

- Before rushing down the slopes once you have set a foot in the snow, do not forget an important point: skiing is a very physical sport!

First, you need to get used to the climate: in Meribel, there is the altitude - between 1.000 and 3.200m - the dry air and the cold. All of which influence your body and tire it more than usually.

One advice: take it easy! Better take regular breaks, drink regularly and stop before being too tired, rather than getting injured on the first day of ski.

And why not take a few warm-up exercices before hitting the slopes? There is plenty of ressources online!

- Then, make sure your ski equipment is in good condition, just like our partner's, Intersport, whose skis are regularly waxed, sharpened and set to your weight by professionals, things that you cannot always do back home.

- On the slopes, do not forget the safety rules (the skiers located under you has priority etc.). The ski patrollers are available to inform you if you have any question.

- Finally, plan some time to get back to the resort. Whether you have kids to pick up at ski school or just have to come back in Meribel Valley, do not forget to plan enough time to ski back. Some elements - weather-related, technical problems - may interfere with your planning.

... But enjoy new activities!

Last winter, tourists have had the opportunity to discover our mountains differently. you will find a few examples of activites to experience while you are here:

- Besides with skis on, anyone can enjoy a tour of the ski area by foot thanks to the dedicated skipass. A great occasion for non-skiers to gather with friends for a yummy lunch on the slopes. The lift companies have established a foot map, that you can either browse online or pick-up at the lift company selling offices.

- The Explor'Game: located by Tueda lake, the Explor'Game is a free and original activity, ideal for a fun and interesting family moment! Equipped with your smartphone, scan the QR codes and help Francois and Amelie saving the valley! A great way to walk through the natural reserve of Tueda while having fun!

- Last winter, one of the most appreciated activity was biathlon! After a few rounds with your cross-country skis on, draw up your riffle and impress your friends with your shooting skills! This fun activity can also be shared with kids as it is supervisied by a professional of the French ski school.

- Other activity that got really popular last year: ski touring! Your skis are fitted with sealskins, your heels are freed from the bindings, you can now slide your skis to move forward. As you finish your transversal trace, try a "conversion" to switch side and continue to climb across the slope. Chances are you are going to go down in a field of powder snow, with your heels now stuck on the bindings. This activity requires some breath but is really accessible to everyone, even the most contemplative skiers!

- New this year, the Ranch Nordique welcomes horse-back riders, whatever their previous experience! For more fun, try ski-joëring (a horse-drawn ski activity from Scandinavia), or its children-friendly alternative: the pony-sledding! 

- Check out the activities Meribel can offer while you are on holidays!