New Lifts, Gondolas & Slope Upgrades Across Meribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens
Each season, Les 3 Vallees reminds us there’s always something new to explore – even in the world’s largest ski area. The 2025/26 season brings a flurry of updates across Meribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens, with faster lifts, modernised stations and plenty of thoughtful touches to make your time on the mountain smoother, faster and even more enjoyable.
Here’s your round-up of what’s new across the Three Valleys this winter – all the fresh updates worth knowing before you hit the slopes.
Major Lift & Gondola Upgrades
Meribel
Rhodos I & II Gondolas – Modern Comfort for Meribel’s Main Link
Both Rhodos gondolas have been fully refurbished with new Poma cabins seating eight, modernised lift stations, and completely updated mechanical and electrical systems. The top station is expected to be finished next summer, completing a €10 million sustainability-focused upgrade.
There are also plans to replace the nearby Adret chairlift with a small cable car linking the Rond Point to the Rhodos mid-station, along with improvements to make the surrounding area more beginner-friendly, including a gentler green run, wider pistes, and upgraded magic carpets.
Cote Brune Gondola – A Cold Classic Gets a Warm Upgrade
The legendary Cote Brune chairlift, linking Meribel Mottaret and Val Thorens, has been completely replaced by a 10-seater Leitner gondola. This €25 million investment transforms one of the valley’s coldest rides into a smooth, scenic, and energy-efficient experience. You’ll climb 540m of elevation in just over four and a half minutes.
At the top, you’ll find a brand-new photo spot and picnic area with stunning views of Mont Blanc, plus a giant Meribel heart symbol for that perfect “on top of the world” shot.
Courchevel
The Reborn Chenus Gondola
Courchevel’s Chenus gondola has been completely rebuilt for 2025. With 54 brand-new 10-seater cabins, doubled capacity, and new eco features like solar panels and rainwater harvesting, it’s one of the smartest lifts in the Alps.
At the snowfront, the redesigned departure area improves skier flow, while up top, you’ll find a new rest and picnic area with sweeping views.
Courchevel is also adding to the fun off the slopes, including a brand-new pump track located beside Aquamotion.
Val Thorens
Face Nord and Cime Caron Returns
Val Thorens continues to redefine high-altitude skiing with two major lift developments:
- Face Nord Gondola: replaces the older Glacier and Col chairs, improving access to the Asters and Orelle areas.
- Cime Caron Cable Car: back for winter 25/26 at 3,200 m, with upgraded cabins and a new connection to the Caron 3200 complex, featuring panoramic dining and viewing areas.
Les Menuires
A Lift with History
The Preyerand lift has had a careful renovation this season. The original cabins have been restored to keep their classic charm, while modern upgrades improve safety and comfort.
Pistes, Photo Spots & Rest Areas
Fresh Piste Developments
- Campagnol (Mont Vallon): This former red run is now graded black, giving expert skiers an extra challenge this winter.
New Rest & Picnic Spots
- La Chaudanne Lounge (Meribel): newly refurbished indoor space seating 85, complete with microwaves, vending machines, and charging points – ideal for a mid-ski warm-up.
- Roc de Fer Summit: new picnic area and hammocks for laid-back mountain lunches.
- Mont Vallon Summit: panoramic deck and another Meribel heart photo point, because you can never have too many!
Photo & Art Installations
- Legends Chairlift: discover the giant “Meribel” letters set against breathtaking mountain views – a must-stop for your holiday photos.
- Roc de Fer Tunnel: new street art by Franck Blériot celebrates the piste’s competition history and bright future.
- Heart Symbols: look out for new heart photo points across Cote Brune, Roc de Fer and Mont Vallon – perfect for those “we made it” shots.
Access Improvements
Brides-les-Bains: Olympe 1 Base Station Revamp
Meribel Alpina has invested €2.9 million in upgrading the Olympe 1 base station. Expect smoother arrivals with a new lift and escalators, modern ticket offices, self-service machines, water fountains, a hot drinks station, and new lockers.
Covered Magic Carpet in Mottaret
The long Doron magic carpet is now covered, offering weather-proof comfort for beginners and families.
Plan Your Next Adventure
With so many exciting updates across the Three Valleys, there’s never been a better time to book your ski holiday. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a group getaway or a quick ski break, you can relax knowing Ski Higher has your equipment covered.
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