Going on holiday without your dog? Not a chance — and honestly, we completely understand.
With its forest paths, traditional villages, wide-open spaces and mountain trails, Méribel is a fantastic destination for enjoying the outdoors with your four-legged companion. You simply need to choose a suitable route, be aware of the protected areas where dogs are not permitted and plan a well-earned break after your walk.
The good news is that dogs are welcome at La Terrasse du Village, in the heart of Méribel Village. You can enjoy lunch, drinks or dinner without having to leave your best friend back at the chalet.
Where Can You Walk Your Dog in Méribel?
Méribel offers plenty of possibilities, from gentle strolls to more challenging mountain hikes. Before setting off, always check that the trails are open and in good condition, particularly after heavy rain or at the beginning and end of the season.
An Easy Walk Around Méribel Village
For a relaxed outing, the paths around Méribel Village are perfect for stretching your legs without planning a full-day expedition.
The Plantin trail, which begins from the main square in Méribel Village, is a short and very easy family-friendly walk. Dogs are permitted as long as they are kept on a lead.
The route also includes a picnic area with tables and toilets when the facilities are open.
It is a great choice for a morning walk before heading back down for lunch at La Terrasse.
Discover the Villages of Les Allues
The walks connecting the different villages throughout the valley allow you to discover another side of Méribel, with traditional chalets, forests, streams and quiet mountain paths.
From Les Allues, the Chemin des Moulins follows a short woodland loop past the remains of historic cereal, hemp and greilla mills. Dogs are welcome on the route but must be kept on a lead.
The village circuit also allows you to reach Les Allues from Méribel Centre via La Gittaz or Le Raffort. Both routes are accessible with a dog.
The Grand Lac for Dogs That Love the Water
For more active walkers and sporty dogs, the Grand Lac hike via Chandon and Gremaillet passes through villages, woodland and trails alongside mountain streams.
The route includes some steep climbs and takes approximately three and a half hours to reach the lake from Les Allues. Dogs must be kept on a lead along certain sections of the trail.
The water level in the lake may also be particularly low following a period of hot weather.
This walk is therefore best suited to dogs that are already comfortable with longer mountain hikes.
Ridge Walks for Experienced Hikers
The descent towards Les Allues from the ridge trails offers spectacular views across the Méribel Valley, Mont Blanc, Mont Jovet, the Belleville Valley and the Aiguilles d’Arves.
Allow approximately five and a half hours for the walk. This route is better suited to fit, active dogs that are accustomed to long distances and mountain terrain.
Can You Take a Dog to Lac de Tuéda?
Yes, but only within a clearly defined area.
In the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, dogs are permitted on a lead as far as the Refuge du Plan. They are not allowed to continue beyond this point, particularly towards the Vallon du Fruit or the Refuge du Saut.
Dogs should also not swim in Lac de Tuéda, as the lake forms part of a fragile protected environment.
More generally, dogs are not permitted within the central area of the Vanoise National Park, even when kept on a lead. This restriction does not apply to assistance dogs with the appropriate documentation.
It is therefore important to check the exact route of your walk before setting off. A trail may begin in an area where dogs are allowed before entering a protected zone further along.
Can Dogs Use the Ski Lifts?
During the summer, dogs can travel on the Tougnète and Pas du Lac gondolas, making it easier to access certain high-altitude walking routes.
Conditions may change, so check with the lift company or Méribel Tourist Office before travelling.
Bring a short lead and make sure your dog is comfortable in an enclosed space and around other passengers.
A Few Precautions Before Setting Off
A mountain walk requires a little more preparation than a quick stroll around the neighbourhood.
Bring enough water for both you and your dog, along with a collapsible bowl. Even when a route passes close to a stream or lake, you should not rely entirely on natural water sources.
Keep your dog on a lead near livestock, wildlife and in any area where this is requested.
When encountering a livestock guardian dog, remain calm, avoid sudden movements and move away slowly while keeping your own dog close beside you.
After your walk, check your dog’s paws. Stones, dry trails and hot ground can be demanding, even for dogs that are used to walking regularly.
Do not forget your dog waste bags. Dispensers are available in several areas of Méribel to help keep the resort and its walking trails clean.
A Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Méribel Village
After all that exploring, it is time for a reward — for the humans, at least.
At La Terrasse du Village, dogs are welcome. Our relaxed atmosphere makes us an ideal place for lunch after a walk, drinks on the terrace or dinner without having to take your dog back to the chalet first.
Located in the heart of Méribel Village, our restaurant is easy to reach after exploring the surrounding area.
Settle down on our covered terrace or inside the restaurant and enjoy our main menu, daily specials and selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
We simply ask that dogs remain on lead and close to your table so that everyone — guests, staff and four-legged visitors — can enjoy their time with us.
Enjoy Méribel with the Whole Family
In Méribel, dogs can enjoy the holiday too, with forest walks, traditional villages, mountain views and a well-deserved nap beneath the table after lunch.
Choose a route suited to your dog’s age and fitness level, respect protected areas and always check the latest conditions before setting off.
When it is time for a break, join us at La Terrasse du Village, your dog-friendly restaurant in Méribel Village.
Book your table online and enjoy Méribel with the whole family — paws included.