Meribel, France by Leo-setä

What is a catered ski holiday in Meribel?

A catered ski holiday will normally mean that everything you need is covered on your holiday. A little bit like an all-inclusive vacation you can expect flights, accommodation and most of the time, food!

Due to Meribel being such a large ski resort, you will find a range of different types of accommodation to suit your needs. From gorgeous little chalets to 5 star hotels. What you choose is completely down to you, but for the full skiing experience it is recommended that you stay in a chalet for at least a few of the nights!

In a catered chalet in Meribel you can enjoy the luxury comforts of wood burning fires and fur rugs to keep your toes warm at night! Staff will prepare meals for you in many catered accommodation packages so you do not have to worry about cooking on your holiday!

Some packages may also include your lift tickets and entry to various entertainment venues located on the resort. It is best to speak with your ski holiday provider to find out exactly what is included in your catered holiday.

Meribel itself is situated at the centre of the Trois Vallees which is the World’s largest ski area. There are several neighbouring small towns and villages nearby that you can explore when taking a break from the slopes. Make sure you grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants away from the resort, for a truly French gourmet experience.

If you have time then you simply must visit the Vanoise National Park, which offers a wide range of scenery, wildlife and plants to experience.

Meribel, France by Leo-setä

Skiing in Meribel

Whether you are a complete beginner in terms of skiing, had a few lessons, or are an expert; there is a slope, chute or piste to suit your level of skill.

Altiport is the area you should start with if you have never been skiing before, or are rusty on the slopes! You will find a range of blue trails that will help you get to grips with this fun and intense sport. There are plenty of guides, schools and teachers that can assist you with any questions or queries you may have when it comes to skiing.

Saulire is a mixed use area, meaning that it caters for all types of skiers. There are a few blue and black trails but mainly a lot of reds that are suitable for intermediate skiers.

Tougnète is another mixed area that will give everybody the opportunity to shine. A number of blue, red and black trails, chutes and slopes are available here. As well as on-piste and off-piste terrains that you can try out your moves on!

Mont du Vallon is the area that attracts the most expert and professional skiers. Although intermediate levels are welcome here, you may find the steep runs a bit too advanced for yourself. Mont du Vallon provides one of the most gorgeous backgrounds for skiing, so check it out if you can!

Meribel in France is not only one of the World’s largest ski resorts, it is also one of the most popular. This is due to the amount of different types of skiing opportunities which appeal to beginners and experts alike.

If you are planning a catered ski holiday to Meribel then ensure you take a few days break from the slopes in order to explore the neighbouring towns and villages. There is also plenty of entertainment available in the form of shopping, restaurants and night-life!

Author Bio:
An article by Nathan Griffiths who tries to ski as often as possible and particularly enjoys the slopes of Meribel.

The post A Beginner’s Guide To Catered Ski Holidays In Meribel, France appeared first on Europe Explored.

The history of Cēsis town dates back to 1205, when the castle and many other smaller fortified buildings were built here by German crusaders known as the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. The first settlement began to emerge here around the castle and soon Cēsis became the capital of Order’s Master. At that time the city belonged to the Hanseatic League and even had the right to mint coins. Cēsis is also likely birthplace of the Latvian flag. The history of the red-white-red flag is not clear, and Latvian flag is one of the oldest flags in the world.

Cēsis, Latvia by Beercha

During the 16th and 17th century, almost the entire town was destroyed by wars, fires and the damage was completed by the Russian occupation. Although the city was destroyed several times, it was still reconstructed.

Cēsis has also become the place of one of the most important battles of the Estonian and Latvian War of Independence. Although Latvia’s independence was proclaimed in 1918, but the Soviet Union did not agree. Latvians had to fight for their freedom, so together with Estonia they created common army with 8000 soldiers and fight in Cēsis against Baltic Land Defence with 6000 soldiers. The battle lasted as long as five days, but finally Estonians and Latvians won important battle of independence.

Currently the city benefits from the development of tourism and not only Latvians, but also foreign guests. It boasts several historical monuments, the most important is undoubtedly an Old Castle built in the 1209. It was built of bricks and its dominant features are two large towers at the west end. The West Tower was the mightiest with the walls of 5.25 meters strong, in which there were the offices and rooms of the castle lords. The South Tower was the highest one with five floors and 32.5 meters height. The core of the castle is formed by the central courtyard, which was previously surrounded by residential buildings. In the vicinity of the castle now stands few half-timbered houses.

Cēsis castle, Latvia by Brunswyk

In 1960 the castle underwent extensive reconstruction, during which there were found three skeletons of women and two children and about 6500 other items. The castle is situated in a spacious Pils park by the river Gauja, and is partially open to the public. Castle park covers an area of ​​65 hectares and is decorated with beautiful, even though dilapidated statues. The park also includes the singing fountain, lake, Russian Orthodox church and a stage for various cultural events. On the opposite side of the park there is situated local brewery Cēsu Alus, in which beer is brewed since 1590. It is the oldest brewery in Northern Europe.

Near the Old Castle is now a “New Castle” from 18th century, which has a typical salmon-pink color. It houses Latvian History Museum.

Another interesting sight is the Gothic church of St. John, from the late 13th century. Originally it had a Gothic look, but it gradually changed over the centuries. Its three-aisle basilica is 65 meters long, 32 meters wide and 65 meters high. The church houses the organ from 1907, that is equipped with 2000 whistles.

In the centre of Cēsis you will find Vienibas laukums square with lots of beautiful buildings and excavations as well.

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