Métabief, Jura

Métabief: 5 things to know before you go

Jura, France 🇫🇷

Métabief is the main downhill ski resort of the French Jura, spread across the slopes of the Mont d'Or close to the Swiss border and the Lake Geneva region. It sits at modest altitude, between roughly 1000 and 1430 metres, but on clear days the panorama stretches all the way to the Alps and the white wall of Mont Blanc. The snow here is variable and weather dependent, so come for the views and the easy-going atmosphere as much as for the skiing.

1.Is the snow reliable in Métabief?

It depends on conditions. At 1000 m to 1430 m this is a lower-altitude resort, so lean on the live snow report and stay flexible on dates (score 46/100).

2.Do you need a car, or can you ski in and out?

This is more of a valley base than a slopeside village, so expect a lift, train or shuttle to the snow each morning. Staying central, near the main lift, saves the most time.

3.How big is the ski area, and who is it for?

It is a compact area, 37 km of piste on 19 lifts, best for a short break or a focused trip rather than a full week. The terrain is balanced (10 green, 13 blue, 12 red, 6 black), which suits a mixed-level group skiing together.

4.What is the resort like?

Métabief stands out for a family-friendly setup.

5.When is the best time to go?

The season usually runs Dec 20 to Mar 10 (about 11 weeks). For the most dependable cover, the deep-winter window of January to February is the safe bet. Conditions soften as spring arrives, so earlier in the window is the safer call.

The full Métabief guide

Hotels, piste breakdown, snow month by month, lift and rental info, map and more.

See the full Métabief guide

More questions, answered

How much vertical drop does Métabief have?
About 430 m of vertical, from a 1000 m base to 1430 m at the top.
Is Métabief part of a larger ski area?
No, it is a self-contained resort with its own 37 km of piste rather than part of a linked domain.
Is Métabief good for beginners?
Yes. With 10 green and 13 blue runs, there is plenty of gentle terrain to learn on.

Where to stay

Hotels we like for ski access and value. Prices are indicative; check live availability.

Hôtel Restaurant Etoile Des Neiges
4.5467 reviews
130
Top pick

Hôtel Restaurant Etoile Des Neiges

Very good · 467 reviews

Why we like it

Strong value for Métabief, with a high guest rating that punches above its nightly price.

Guests rate this hotel as very good (4.5/5 from 467 reviews). It sits about 600 m from the slopes. A mid-range option for Métabief, with live nightly rates shown for your exact dates so you always see the best price.

≈ 600 m to the slopesMid-range
From
130/ night
Check availability
Résidence Le Sommet
4.9194 reviews
170

Résidence Le Sommet

Excellent · 194 reviews

Why we like it

One of the highest-rated places to stay in Métabief, with guests singling out the service and comfort.

≈ 1.1 km to the slopesMid-range
From
170/ night
Check availability
Village vacances Jura - AZUREVA Métabief
4.2455 reviews
110

Village vacances Jura - AZUREVA Métabief

Great · 455 reviews

Why we like it

A dependable, well-reviewed choice for a stay in Métabief.

≈ 600 m to the slopesMid-range
From
110/ night
Check availability
Village vacances VTF Le Bief Rouge
4.1417 reviews
120

Village vacances VTF Le Bief Rouge

Great · 417 reviews

Why we like it

A dependable, well-reviewed choice for a stay in Métabief.

≈ 400 m to the slopesMid-range
From
120/ night
Check availability

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Live snow report