Why choose Orcières Merlette 1850
Orcieres Merlette 1850 is a hidden gem, situated in the Hautes-Alpes department of the French Alps. It sits on the edge of the Ecrins National Park, overlooking the Champsaur Valley. With the nearest major town being Gap, a 45-minute drive away, the resort is known for combining the sunny weather of the Southern Alps with the great snow of the north.
The resort enjoys abundant sunny days, but its high altitude (up to 2725m) and snowmaking on 70% of the slopes keep the snow in great shape. With 52 pistes for all levels of skier, there really is something for everyone.
Skibound groups will be able to benefit from a range of fantastic evening entertainment opportunities with the local ice rink, indoor swimming pool and bowling alley all within walking distance of the Village Club accommodation.
Resort highlights
Resort overview
Travel details
On the slopes
The resort offers excellent gentle and wide slopes to practice your turns before exploring the mountain. Both the Front de Neige at the base of the resort and the Rocherousse Plateau, located higher up and reached via a cable car, offer excellent terrain for beginners to learn. The local ESF will ensure that our groups have excellent instruction and progression.
Piste map
Après-ski
The local ice rink, indoor swimming pool and bowling alley are all within walking distance from the Village Club accommodation. Pizza nights and crepes can also be arranged locally.
Highlights
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Hotels
Village Club du Soleil
The Village Club du Soleil is a 3-star hotel offering full-board dining, a full evening entertainment programme and convenient on-site ski hire with short navette transfers to ESF lessons.
Book early and save
For pricing or to speak with a resort expert, call 01273 244570 or request a quote below.
Destinations
Explore ski destinations
France
France remains a leading choice for school ski trips, offering high-altitude resorts, snow-sure conditions and excellent learner environments. With varied terrain and accommodation suited to groups, French ski resorts provide consistent quality throughout the season.
Italy
Enjoy a friendly atmosphere, traditional alpine villages and a relaxed skiing environment on a school ski trip to Italy. The mix of sunny slopes and supportive ski schools makes it an ideal choice for mixed ability students.
Andorra
Andorra offers extensive skiing across Pal Arinsal and Grandvalira, with more than 300 kilometres of pistes for school groups. Significant investment in lifts, snowmaking and slope technology ensures quick access to the mountains and excellent conditions throughout the season.
Austria
Austria offers extensive ski areas, outstanding snow records and traditional alpine charm. With modern lift systems and varied terrain, this gorgeous destination remains a popular choice for school groups seeking strong progression and memorable mountain experiences.
Canada
Canada is a popular long-haul choice for school groups, offering excellent snow reliability, high-quality accommodation and friendly Canadian hospitality. With extensive terrain and well-equipped resorts, students enjoy memorable skiing in a safe and supportive environment.
Japan
Japan offers exceptional snow conditions, modern ski resorts and a rich cultural experience that sets it apart as a long-haul destination. With deep powder, state-of-the-art facilities and warm hospitality, it provides school groups with a memorable blend of skiing and cultural learning.
USA
The USA offers some of the most varied and recognisable ski experiences in the world. From classic ski resorts with strong snowmaking to vast, high-altitude terrain, school groups enjoy exceptional instruction, dependable conditions and memorable long-haul experiences.