Working a Season in Méribel
Everything you need to know about doing a winter season in one of the Three Valleys' most popular resorts: roles and pay, nightlife and where to live.
Why Méribel?
Méribel sits at the heart of the Three Valleys, the world's largest linked ski area. It's one of the most popular resorts for British seasonaires, which means a thriving English-speaking community, plenty of social life, and a well-worn path for first-timers and veterans alike.
The resort has a huge number of independent chalets alongside the bigger operators, making it one of the best places to find work if you're looking beyond the big recruitment agencies. It's also a genuinely beautiful resort, purpose-built in the 1930s with a traditional alpine feel, surrounded by pine forests and with incredible access to skiing in all three valleys.
Roles available
Méribel has a wide range of seasonal roles. The most common positions include:
💰 Typical Pay
Most chalet roles pay between €1,200–€1,800/month plus accommodation and food. Chefs tend to earn more (€1,800–€2,500+). Ski instructors work on a different model and are often paid per lesson. With accommodation and food covered, almost everything you earn is spending money.
What you'll need
Requirements vary by role, but here are the common ones for Méribel:
📋 Common Requirements
Right to work: EU citizenship or a valid French work permit is essential. Since Brexit, UK nationals need a visa or work permit to work in France. Check the latest requirements before applying.
Driving licence: Highly valuable. Many chalet jobs require airport transfers and supply runs.
Food hygiene: Required for chefs and often expected for hosts. Level 2 is the minimum.
DBS check: Needed if you'll be working with children (nanny roles).
Ski qualifications: BASI Level 2+ for instructor roles.
Living in Méribel
Most seasonal workers live in staff accommodation provided by their employer, usually a shared chalet or apartment. It's basic but functional, and the social aspect of living with your colleagues is a huge part of the season experience.
If you're arranging your own accommodation, expect to pay premium rates. Méribel is not a cheap resort, and rental availability for seasonaires can be limited. Getting accommodation included in your contract is a major benefit.
🎿 Time off & skiing
Most chalet roles give you time off during the day (typically 10am–4pm) while guests are out skiing, plus one or two full days off per week. This means you'll get plenty of skiing in, one of the best perks of the job. An unrestricted Three Valleys lift pass costs around €1,200 for the season, though many employers include one or offer a subsidised rate.
Nightlife & social scene
Méribel has one of the best social scenes of any alpine resort. Popular spots include Jack's Bar, Ronnie's, and the Brewer's Den for après-ski, with O'Sullivans and Dick's Tea Bar for later nights. The British seasonaire community is tight-knit and welcoming, and you'll make friends for life.
When to start looking
The best time to start applying for a Méribel winter season is August–October for a December start. The bigger operators fill up first, but independent chalets often hire later (September–November). Some last-minute roles come up even in December and January. Having your profile on PeakWave early means employers can find you as soon as they start looking.
Ready for a season in Méribel?
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