Where to Ski And Snowboard - Méribel to get Folie Douce

Méribel to get Folie Douce

28th March 2012, by Chris Gill

Planning view of the new Choucas / Folie Douce (c) Mag Des Cimes

Méribel is to get a branch of the famous Folie Douce restaurant/bar next winter – the lively après-ski venue that is the closest thing to Austrian-style partying, with dancing on the tables and music.

The French resort’s Choucas restaurant under the Saulire 1 gondola is to be fully renovated over the summer. It will triple in size and have a big new terrace added, then reopen as the Folie Douce restaurant and club – hopefully in December 2012. Of course, not everyone will be pleased to see this tranquil spot reinvent itself as a music venue too, but it will introduce a bigger dining option handy for the piste.

The best-known and original of La Folie Douce restaurants is in Val d’Isère, but its success meant another branch opening in Val Thorens a few season’s back. The restaurants offer modern food and smart designs, while the terraces are home to the live music or DJ sessions that kick off every afternoon. The one in Val d’Isère has the advantage of a green run to La Daille beside it (although don’t be deceived by the grading: it’s not the easiest of descents when busy).

The location on Méribel’s slopes for this new venue seems ideal in terms of a sunny position and being easily accessible from the piste, but the some people have expressed concern that the nearest slope is a relatively testing red run (Cerf). Combine that with beer-fuelled skiers and it might involve similar problems to Ischgl’s home red runs.

If you’re a fan of the Choucas and against the development, or a fan of the Folie Douce and can’t wait to try the new venue, do report back to WTSS – we’d love to hear your comments.