Opening
Courchevel
from 6th december 2024 to 21st april 2025
Opening
3 Vallées
from 7th december 2024 to 21st april 2025
Newsletter
My ultimate guide to the 3 Valleys
Back to blog
Post category Lifestyle / None ski

Enjoy the 3 Valleys like a real local

Make the most of the 3 Valleys: my ultimate guide

My portrait
Sarah, Brand Content Manager

A little introduction

Hi, I’m Sarah! I was born and brought up in Bozel, a small village near Courchevel. Mountains and skiing - they’re second nature to me. Since I was tiny, I have skied the slopes of the 3 Valleys and recently I have been lucky enough to be working for the Société des 3 Vallées. I know the hidden corners of the ski area like the back of my hand, and today I want to share my favourite spots, top tips and some recommendations you shouldn’t miss in the 3 Valleys. Are you ready to ski like a local? Follow me!

My favourite areas

Courchevel Moriond

If I had to choose one sector of Courchevel, I’d choose Courchevel Moriond without hesitation. It’s where I learned to ski. The Indiens piste (‘Canyon de Yepa’) has always been my favourite. This area is very relaxed, perfect for a chill day away from the crowds.

My little secret spot here is the Chapelet chairlift. It serves peaceful slopes, perfect for skiing at your own pace. Snow conditions here are great, and there’s a very calm ambiance. If you’re searching for somewhere off the beaten track for a break and to recharge your batteries, it’s an ideal spot.

Mont de la Challe in Méribel

Another place I adore is the Mont de la Challe sector in Méribel, particularly around the Roc de Tougne chairlift. I have fond childhood memories of this area, where there used to be a button lift. I made lots of my first turns around here so I know it well and I always feel at ease here.

At Mont de la Challe you’ll find the ‘Back to the Wild’ sector with its cute ‘cabane des trappeurs’ – trapper’s cabin – and 'cabane du lac', perfect for a little pause. There’s also my favourite run: Julie. It’s without a doubt my favourite spot; you feel far away from everything, you can really savour each descent and admire the breathtaking scenery.

Orelle

The third of my favourite places is Orelle. Located on a far edge of the 3 Valleys, it’s a real hidden gem you must not miss. The piste I love most is Lory. You feel as though you’re in a canyon and the slope is gentle so you can cruise down whilst enjoying the landscape. It’s a perfect place for those who like a relaxed ski with stunning views in a natural setting. Voilà, a little secret for you to discover!

My favourite restaurants

Fahrenheit 7 Restaurant
Fahrenheit 7 Restaurant

Rotisserie Fahrenheit 7 in Courchevel Moriond

Lunch is a crucial part of skiing! Let’s talk restaurants… If you’re in Courchevel Moriond, don’t miss Rôtisserie Fahrenheit 7 at the base of the Ariondaz gondola. The pizzas, homemade pasta and tapas to share are just delicious. Also, the chef, Damien (another local from my village), really knows how to highlight the best ingredients. With its sunny terrace and amazing view over the slopes, it’s a dreamy spot to savour a lazy lunch after a morning on the slopes!
Le Chalet du Thorens Restaurant
Le Chalet du Thorens Restaurant

Chalet du Thorens in Val Thorens

If you’re going through Val Thorens, the Chalet du Thorens is situated alongside the 2 Combes piste, an unmissable restaurant if you like sushi! If you’re a sushi fan, you’ll love it: each dish, prepared by a sushi chef, is an explosion of flavours. My cousin introduced me to this place, and it’s since become one of my favourites. A treat for the tastebuds and an ideal place for a break after your morning’s efforts.
Le 2800 Restaurant
Le 2800 Restaurant

Le 2800 in Les Menuires

Every time I go to Les Menuires, I head to this restaurant! Le 2800 is at the top of La Pointe de la Masse. Run after by my old neighbours, it’s a real delight where you can try Savoyard specialities and lots of other tasty dishes. And if you’re in a bit of a hurry, head to the snack bar for something to eat on the go.
La Folie Douce
La Folie Douce

La Petite Cuisine at the Folie Douce in Méribel

Looking for a good time? Get yourself to the mid-station of Saulire Express to the legendary Folie Douce! What I like best about this place is the really tasty burgers at the La Petite Cuisine restaurant, then heading to the ‘dance floor’, ie. the terrace! It’s such a great show: the dancers put on wild performances, with live music to crank up the energy until the pistes close. A great place to party with your mates – miss it and you’ll miss out!

My favourite activities away from the slopes

Moriond Racing in Courchevel Moriond

After a good day’s skiing, if I want to hang out with my friends a bit longer, we love going tobogganing! (That’s right, adults are allowed to go sledging too!) Without a doubt, my firm favourite in the 3 Valleys is Moriond Racing. It’s a really fun activity in Courchevel Moriond, where you rediscover your inner child! On the toboggan slope, you’ll feel like you’re in a real-life Mario Kart. And watch out, there’s a few the surprises in store for the most daring! Such a fun way to end the day!

The Tueda Nature Reserve in Méribel Mottaret

If it’s peace and quiet you’re looking for, my little corner of paradise (without skis) is the ‘Réserve naturelle de Tueda’ in Méribel-Mottaret. I love to take a walk around the lake, maybe stop at the ‘Buvette de Tueda’ shack for a crêpe or a coffee, and simply enjoy a moment in the present, because you have the feeling that time stands still here. It’s a perfect spot for rest and decompression. The air is fresh and pure, and the nature surrounding you creates a sensation of total calm. Only 15 minutes on foot from the car park, it’s a peaceful haven far from the buzz of resort life.

An ice hockey match in Courchevel or Méribel

For an action-filled evening, I love going to see a hockey match and support the local team: The Bouquetins (“pronounced Boo-ker-tans”) The atmosphere is wild and you definitely won’t get bored! It’s loads of fun, you really get into the match, surrounded by the supporters who are all full of energy! Nothing better for a lively night out… “ALLEZ LES BOUQUETINS”!

practical information