Walking in Meribel during the Winter season

The Alps are very popular for walkers during the summer months; well maintained paths, amazing scenery and plenty of delightful places to stop for a drink or bite to eat. What many people don't realise is that the same applies in the winter with a number of paths maintained and signposted for those who don't feel the need to hurtle down a slope with a plank or two attached to their feet. 

At Chalet Vache Bleue we have accommodated many groups where not everyone is keen to  get on a lift with the aim being to get down again as quickly as possible, amongst these less frantic visitors walking is probably the most popular activity. In Les Allues we are spoilt by the number of signed paths which pass through the village. From the Chalet you can head north, south, east or west to enjoy peaceful vistas but still be able to meet up with your speeding friends for lunch or a spot of apres if you wish.

Many of the footpaths around Les Allues are part of the "Poets Footpath"
network which provide poems and verses posted on the sign posts 

 Each day the lift company publish which paths have been prepared, this is available on-line and also in printed format from the Tourist Office. To enjoy the walking you do not necessarily need to use any of the lifts. The free bus links all areas and enables you to walk in different areas and walk from one area to another. To venture further there is a a Pedestrian Lift Pass available at 22 Euro per day or 66 Euro per week, alternatively if you just want to hop on one of the Gondola lifts to take in the view from the top or meet up with friends you can buy a pass per "troncon" meaning stage. For full details see the Lift Pass Guide

Preparing the footpaths to make walking easier

Whilst good walking boots will allow you to explore many of the paths a walking stick or ski pole and grips which fit on the sole of you boots will make the going easier. You can also hire Raquets de Neige which are great when the snow is deep, and throughout the season there are organised Snowshoeing activities with experienced guides who can help you see the very best the area has to offer on foot.

So if you don't ski or ride don't let that stop you from enjoying the mountain air and scenery. Bring your walking boots and chances are you will see a side of Meribel that many people miss.

Enjoy the peace and quiet of Lac Tueda on foot