Celebrate 80 years of Meribel

Next year we’ll be marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of Meribel - and the story of how it came to be is a fascinating one.

Now one of the most desirable ski resorts in the Alps, Meribel was founded by a British skier named Colonel Peter Lindsay and construction began in 1938. So why did he decide to build his own ski resort? At the time, the Nazi grip on traditional winter sports destinations in Germany and Austria was strengthening, and Lindsay wanted to create a destination away from the Nazi regime.

Although the war briefly halted work on the site, alongside the traditional hamlet of Morel, it was resumed when conflict in Europe came to an end.

Lindsay used the services of specialist architects to ensure that the site was in keeping with traditional building techniques and the Savoyard style. Walls were made from wood and stone, while each building was topped with a slanted slate roof.

The overall effect that Lindsay achieved was the illusion that Meribel is a much older and more established ski resort than it is. His architectural stipulations have ensured that Meribel has a unique charm which it retains to this day.

Lindsay’s descendents still ski at Meribel to this day, and his ashes are scattered on the Burgin mountain.

Meribel boasts an exceptional location; not only is there fantastic skiing to be had in the Meribel valley, but Meribel is in the heart of the Three Valleys linked ski area, one of the best in the world. So good is the skiing in this location, in fact, that the Winter Olympics were held in Meribel in 1992.

These days the resort benefits from first class facilities to complement the skiing opportunities, including Michelin star restaurants, chic bars, delicious local wine and a charming twice-weekly market.

With all the provision that the resort boasts for skiers and non-skiers alike, it’s the perfect place for a group holiday. If you’ve fallen for the many charms of Meribel, it’s also a great location in which to buy property, allowing you to visit whenever the mood strikes. Check out the properties we have available and get in touch to find out more. 

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