Staying active off the slopes
It’s true that a ski holiday in France wouldn’t be the same without spending some time on the slopes, but as the remaining spring snow melts away holidaymakers can still take advantage of Méribel’s alternative fitness activities.
In a recent report, French physiotherapists warned those visiting mountain resorts to get fit ahead of their skiing sessions. If you’re an avid winter sports enthusiast or skiing simply isn’t your thing, our guide to staying active on your alpine adventure will have you feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on a challenge in no time!
Indoors endurance
If you’re building your way up to a new peak challenge, a visit to the gym can prepare you ahead of the big descent. Providing a full gym suite including cardio machines, power plates and weights, head to Parc Olympique to get your early morning session in before hitting the snow.
Those wanting to pass on the slopes but missing the view from the top can find new heights with the sport centre’s 14-metre climbing wall. Access is free for experienced climbers over the age of six, but lessons are available for those hoping to pick up a new skill while on holiday.
Alternatively, you might just be searching for inner peace. In that case, Méribel’s yoga instructors are well worth a visit to unwind, hone your skill or simply keep up the good work. Why travel to the class when it can come to you at your cosy catered chalet in Méribel? Practitioner Clare of La Lune Bleue Yoga delivers expert one-to-one yoga instruction or small group sessions at your accommodation. If you prefer to share the experience, ex-Brit Clare regularly holds scheduled classes at her studio in Méribel too.
Family Fitness
Staying active is fun for everyone, especially if you have little ones who need to burn off some excess energy.
If you’re holidaying with children still learning the ropes on the slopes, ice skating can be a great way to give them a break from challenging runs while keeping the winter excitement going. The Patinoire or Ice Rink in Méribel was the site of the 1992 Winter Olympics, playing host to talented figure skating athletes during the games. Located next to Parc Olympique, today the rink is home to all manner of public ice skating sessions, ice hockey matches and even hosts special family ice games.
The Alps’ icy landscape is magical for youngsters, but its melted equivalent is sure to cause a splash too. The large indoor pool at Parc Olympique is open seven days a week and accommodates serious swimmers with sectioned off lanes, as well as those just there to splash around in the child-friendly shallow areas.
Nothing bonds a family together like some healthy competition. Take your team out for an evening of knocking down ten pins at Méribel Bowling Alley, open from 4pm Monday to Sunday with earlier opening times to accommodate holidaymakers on bad weather days. With a well-stocked sports bar, arcade games on site and special themed evenings, this alley offers light entertainment after a day of action in the Alps.
Healthy inside and out
Taking care of yourself isn’t just about hitting the gym. Your wellbeing is just as important and a guaranteed route to rejuvenation is to take some quality ‘me’ time. Fortunately, Méribel offers the full pamper package with spa services you can enjoy on location or in the comfort of your own ski chalet.
Travelling directly to your chalet, Massage Me offer the full mobile pampering experience wherever you are in the Three Valleys. Whether you need to wind down after a day of activities on the mountains or are looking for an uplifting treatment on holiday, their recovery Slope Side Serenity massage and facial is just the ticket.
Whatever your pace or goals, there’s plenty to keep you fighting fit in Méribel this year, even off the slopes.