Heading out on an ice climbing expedition is one of the best ways to see the unparalleled natural beauty of the French Alps. From Méribel, there are plenty of incredibly scenic routes in the Ecrons and Vanoise National Park, allowing climbers to get into the heart of this country’s gorgeous alpine scenery.
Country Code:
+33
Currency:
Euro
Language:
French
Best time to climb:
December to March
How to get there:
Most trips to Méribel will begin with a flight into Alpes–Isère Airport (GNB), near Grenoble. From here, Méribel is an easy two hour drive and only a bit farther by bus from the airport
What’s the weather like?
During the winter, average daily temperatures in Méribel range between -6 ºC and freezing. While winter is one of the driest times of year in Méribel, there is still plenty of ice and snow
With its ease of access to Vanoise National Park, it’s little wonder this is the top spots for ice climbing enthusiasts headed top Méribel. For half-day ice climbing outings here, many guides opt to head to Roger Valley’s cascade at Brévières, next to Tignes, the ice tour in nearby Champagny or the cascade of the Daille, between Val d’Isère and Tignes. For full-day ice climbing trips, many guides, instead, will opt for the Echaillon cascade, sitting between Tignes and Sainte Foy, which is perfect for beginners. For more advanced ice climbers, the cascade of Gurraz, between Tignes and Sainte Foy; the cascade of the Peisey Valley and the cascade of Chapieux Valley, make for apt and scenic challenges
Stay up-to-date on the best adventures.