Courchevel, Val d’Isere or Meribel – which ski resort to choose?

Val d’Isere, Meribel and Courchevel 1850 are popular, well known ski resorts in the French Alps. However they are all unique, each appealing to a completely different type of skier or group. Val d’Isere is the high altitude station that thas retained a lovely village feel. Skiing is the focus for this resort, with access to the whole of the Espace Killy. It is a skiers paradise with a vast array of cruising pistes along with nearly 25 acres of off piste powder to play in. However for those who ski hard there are plenty of places to play hard too, with the Folie Douce bringing you the best apres ski. The ski lift which arrives in the building is perfect for those on foot or who do not wish to ski back down at the end of the day. Meribel is a favourite destination for families, this is predominantly due to its’ extensive intermediate piste skiing. The tree lined slopes at the Altiport are perfect for first week skiers. Also there are many brilliant independant ski schools so you are spoilt for choice for English speaking instructors. The Rond Point is the place where the fun begins. Located on the run back to resort, this apres ski bar is famous for its’ toffee vodka but also is a great sunny lunch spot accessable to all whether you are on skis or foot. Courchevel 1850 is well known as the playground of the rich and famous. The fabulous boutiques and art studios attract spenders as well as skiers but the skiing in the Courchevel valley is vast, with something to suit every ski style. Cruising greens and blue are situated not far from steep black runs and there are serveral easy to access couloirs for the more adventurous skier. However this is the resort which attracts Russian clientele, it has adapted and evolved over the years so Russian speaking visitors feel at home with Russian language menu’s and many Russian speaking instructors available. There are more Michelin stars in this resort than any other but you need to have deep pockets to really enjoy the food and drink available. However the service is generally excellent and the bars and resturants are great places for people watching. Ceri Tinley is the Co-Founder and MD of Consensio Holidays. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.