Road to Meribel (or #roadtomeribel if you are down with the Kids)

I couldn't help but notice over the last few months on twitter and other social media that #roadtosochi is trending more and more. I assuming #roadtosochi is referring to the build up and journey to the next Winter Olympics in a few months time. So with that in mind I thought I could switch it round to #roadtomeribel and see what the response I would get.

Got to be honest with you, over the last few weeks the response was next to nothing. Oh well, don't give up the day job. But you see, the road to Meribel each winter is actually quite an event. Needless to say all the packing, tieing up loose ends with my summer career, saying goodbyes to familes and friends can make you tired even before the 900 mile drive to resort. These days I tend to break up the journey and stay overnight part way down through France.

This winter again I took the Nuits-St-Georges exit off the autoroute in Burgundy, and aimed for a tiny village called Vougeot close to Gevrey Chambertain. I checked in late in the evening, and promptly splodged in front of French TV, quickly followed by sleep. Waking up the next morning was an assault on the senses.

The French language, a proper continental breakfast, bright blue sky, and being surrounded by vineyards. What a great re-introduction back into the country. After breakfast I took a (freezing) stroll around the area and absorbed everything. Granted, the vineyards are far from their best at this time of year, but it is very special being on the Routes des Grands Crus especially seeing the famous Chateau du Clos de Vougeot. Hang on a minute, I'm starting to sound like Michael waxing lyrical about food and wine, there is only one Lunch Instructor after all!

After a quick stretch of the legs, I jumped back in the car and squirted staright onto the autoroute to continue the #roadtomeribel. Several hours later the climb began up the mountains to Meribel, and Ladies and Gentlemen, what a sight for sore eyes. The whole area looks fabulous. I'm sure you can find the webcams and see what I mean.

The next week or so is looking to be rather hectic, going here, there and everywhere. Even Michael will be making a quick cameo appearance early next week before heading back to the UK for his final stint of music work. More news next week.

If you enjoyed this article, you might like to read about my final ski of last winter by clicking here. Feel free to share away on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ by clicking on the social media icons. Or leave a comment below, it's dead simple to do. We would love to hear what's planned for your #roadtomeribel. Martin.