Altus Méribel 2025
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Edito – Altus Méribel 2025

“The mountains offer man everything that modern society forgets to give him.” (Boris Vian)

Altitude has never been so alluring, so captivating. The last bastion of freedom, the mountains offer an escape far from the frenetic pace of everyday life. Nature reveals itself there in all its strength, inviting humility and authenticity. This is what also makes it a place conducive to reunions, whether with family or friends. For some, it holds childhood memories in their favorite resort, like an anchor. Everyone comes seeking the unforgettable, those precious moments that can only be experienced at altitude.
The mountains are a muse, inspiring athletes and artists alike, such as the photographers we followed on the trail of peaks over 4,000 meters in this issue. They skillfully capture suspended moments of rare intensity. More than a vacation spot, the mountains offer a multifaceted experience. Skiing and the pleasures of gliding remain essential, but there are other challenges, other ways to enjoy the altitude. Everyone, at their own pace, draws from the range of activities available according to their aspirations.
Like the mountain guides we met in this issue, adaptability is the main quality of mountaineers. To the climate, to visitors’ expectations, to current trends. From this positive energy emerge new projects, new inspirations, and different ways of reinventing an ever-evolving ecosystem. Everyone is a driver of change. Interactions between locals, vacationers, and professionals spark unexplored paths, gradually shaping a new version of the mountains. A vibrant mountain, faithful to its roots, and with eyes turned toward the future.

Roland Claude Durand-Terrasson
Director of Publications

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ACTU

GAUTIER AIRIAU’S IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES

In July 2024, he placed second in the ultra-trail di Corsica (the flagship event of the Restonica trail), completing the 110-kilometer course in approximately 16 hours. Gautier Airiau followed up with a very impressive third-place finish at the TDS (Traces des Ducs de Savoie) international race in late August, covering 148 kilometers starting from Courmayeur, on the other side of Mont Blanc.
This Méribel athlete is no stranger to top-level competitions. A former Nordic combined skier, he competed in numerous World Cups before transitioning to trail running while working as a schoolteacher. In 2019, he became vice-champion of France in long-distance trail running in Méribel and won the Aiguilles Rouges trail in 2023.

THE GRAVITY ACADEMY CHALLENGE, A FIRST!

Mountain biking enthusiasts faced off during the second edition of the Gravity Academy Challenge from July 22 to 26, 2024. For the first time, Méribel hosted this national event with a pioneering concept aimed at young riders aged 9 to 14 (U11, U13, and U15), both boys and girls, who are fans of speed and adrenaline. The program included a three-day training camp led by the French downhill team, followed by two days of enduro and downhill competitions.

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CÔTE BRUNE CHAIRLIFT: BYE BYE IN 2025

The famous four-seat Côte Brune chairlift, linking Méribel-Mottaret’s high points to the Val Thorens and Les Menuires ski areas, is soon reaching the end of its service life. The chairlift will be replaced next winter by a state-of-the-art ten-seat gondola featuring panoramic cabins. This advanced system will reach speeds of seven meters per second and transport up to 2,600 people per hour. Multiple access points will help reduce waiting times.
The current Côte Brune chairlift has been in service since 1991 and faced issues such as slow speeds and exposure to harsh weather at high altitudes. It will be dismantled in spring 2025.

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AN EVEN MORE THRILLING EXPLOR GAME

The resort has updated its Explor Games app, “The Quest for Méribel’s Heart,” offering even more exciting adventures this winter in its new version, featuring unique geocaching beacons. Participants will face new challenges to solve the final mystery. This game enjoys great success among families thanks to a concept that provides an immersive experience via a scripted trail, available both in winter and summer around the Lac de Tuéda. Download the app update from the App Store and Google Play.

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FROM STREET ART TO ROC DE FER

This tunnel, once a simple concrete structure, has been transformed to host the 2023 World Championships, allowing skiers and spectators to cross the piste safely, especially during competitions. It has become an immersive gateway to the slopes thanks to a monumental street art piece that celebrates Méribel’s sporting history, created on the façade and inside the tunnel by Franck Blériot. A pioneer of poetic muralism, Blériot is the author of over 250 works worldwide. The vibrant colors and dynamic patterns bring a modern touch of culture, creating a new point of interest on the ski area. This artistic project is part of a broader plan to develop the Roc de Fer area.

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Adventure

GLACIER DE GÉBROULAZ, THE HIDDEN FACE OF THE 3 VALLEYS

At the summit of the 3 Valleys, Péclet-Polset is adorned with glaciers. In the backdrop of its iconic silhouette, well-covered slopes unfold their white carpet to backcountry skiers. Nestled in this pristine setting, free from any lift pylons, lies the Gébroulaz glacier. It’s here, flirting with the heights, that the authentic essence of the mountain is born, where every turn brings us closer to raw, magnificent nature.

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Event

DÉFI DE L’OLYMPE: RUNNERS’ STORIES

This is not about challenging the gods, but rather oneself, at the Défi de l’Olympe. The popular race offers trail runners a chance to prepare for the season with plenty of elevation gain, while less experienced runners can face it in a spirit of camaraderie. Each time, it’s an opportunity to push beyond limits and overcome personal challenges. To give you a glimpse, Altus has spoken to finishers from the eighth edition.

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Terroir

BEAUFORT, KING OF THE ALPINE MEADOWS

It is one of the oldest mountain cheeses still made today. Available in winter, summer, or alpine meadow varieties, Beaufort entered the prestigious AOP (Protected Designation of Origin) circle over half a century ago. Thanks to passionate men and women, it has become one of the cornerstones of Savoyard gastronomy.

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