Avoriaz

The great ski resort of Avoriaz, inaugurated in 1966, is located at about 1800 high in the Alps, in Morzine territory, in the Haute-Savoie zone, France, and also part of Valais. It was opened in 1967.

Avoriaz ski resort

Avoriaz ski resort is located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area, one of the largest cross-border ski areas in the world linking 12 resorts between France and Switzerland.

The resort of Avoriaz ski resort has an exceptional playground for all skiers with more than 300 runs adapted to all levels. The 90 restaurants on the slopes and the gastronomic culture shared with Switzerland, only 2 lifts away, will delight gourmets and terrace lovers. We warn you, it will be difficult to make a choice, especially between the Swiss fondue and the Savoyard fondue…

Avoriaz ski resort is centrally located in the Portes du Soleil area and allows you to explore the area at your leisure, linking to Switzerland, Châtel or Morzine in just a few lifts.

For beginners and children, there are many green and blue slopes at the start of the resort which allow for gentle progress while exploring the surrounding area.

Situated on a plateau facing south and overlooking the Morzine valley, the Avoriaz ski resort is magical from the first glance, thanks to the wood that elegantly decorates each residence and chalet. The magnificent Avoriaz domain, inaugurated in 1966, is located at an altitude of approximately 1800 metres, in the heart of the Alps, in the administrative territory of Morzine in the Haute Savoie.

Avoriaz is one of the 14 resorts in the Portes du Soleil and is located in the central part of this large linked area. Its sectors are very varied and have different orientations, which means that the snow is also very different from one area to another. The different sectors include: Arare, Lindaret, Chavanette, Té, Chatel, Intrets, Prodains, Super Morzin.

To get to the Avoriaz ski resort

Car traffic is totally forbidden in the resort in order to preserve the silence of the mountains and the environment. To get there: on foot, by horse-drawn sleigh, by sledge or on skis. Avoriaz has 39 lifts and 49 runs, including 6 black, 14 red, 24 blue and 5 green. With a cumulative snowfall of over 8 metres per winter, Avoriaz guarantees skiing at all times of the year.

Avoriaz has also created a new generation of 100% natural ski area: “The Stash”. Its slopes take shape in the large Lindarets forest; they are punctuated with wooden modules and messages on environmental protection, which can be discovered at random through “secret passages”…

This concept, imported from the United States by Burton, allows a real encounter with nature in a safe area. The most difficult runs are in the Portes sector. Also note the famous wall that you will find filled with bumps that will require a significant physical effort.

SOFTSKI area for beginners eager to learn without a worry

For those who have never skied or have not skied for a long time, Avoriaz has created “SOFTSKI” for them to learn to ski with complete peace of mind: reserved slopes, an adapted price, comfortable equipment, innovative lessons…

Avoriaz also offers a connection to Switzerland via several intermediaries, including La Chavanette, including the Mur Suisse. In 1993, the resort installed a detachable 6-seater chairlift, the TSD du Tour, which can transport up to 3,000 people per hour.

This chairlift was the first of its kind in Europe. In July 2012, Avoriaz opened the Aquariaz, a unique concept of a thermal water park, with more than 1500 tropical plants and 183 trees that will delight its visitors in this exceptional setting.

Outre la glisse et le ski, Avoriaz propose également une très large palette d’activités et de loisirs : balade en traîneau, bowling, cinéma, vols en montgolfière, plongée sous glace, VTT sur neige, patin à glace, balnéo, bodyform, spa… de quoi satisfaire les plus exigeants.

Webcams Avoriaz

Sustainable development of the Avoriaz ski resort

For the ski resort of Avoriaz, the issue of sustainable development is at the heart of discussions. The resort has therefore made a number of commitments and set itself a number of objectives.

Firstly, to preserve its natural resources such as snow, water, biodiversity and landscapes. Avoriaz also aims to reduce its impact. To do this, Avoriaz wants to reduce its electricity consumption, reduce its carbon footprint and better manage its waste.

LIVING IN A PRESERVED MOUNTAIN

Avorias offers its visitors a real immersion in a preserved natural environment and does everything possible to welcome as many people as possible and make the mountains accessible to all.

Unforgettable experiences in Avoriaz

Take advantage of the time you are in Avoriaz ski resort to learn Archery Tag. Played between 6 and 10 people, precision and patience are required to practice this discipline. Compete in the heart of an exciting game, in an exotic setting.

For thrill-seekers, Avoriaz ski resort offers an activity that will give you unique and unforgettable sensations: free-fall. From a helicopter, it’s a few seconds of free fall at over 200km/h before the parachute opens. At this point, enjoy the magnificent view of the Portes du Soleil area below you. This activity is of course done under professional supervision.

Avoriaz mountain resort in summer

In summer, Avoriaz offers Aquariaz, a tropical paradise for the whole family, bathed in natural light and bordered by lush vegetation.

For young and old alike, the many pools filled with water at 30°C have depths adapted to each level of swimming: from dabblers to adventurers. Around a water tree, the little ones can enjoy the water jets and slides.

The more adventurous will try the rock climbing wall or the Slidewinder for extreme sliding sensations. Finally, to relax, the slow-moving rivers, the massaging bubble baths or the outdoor pool are ideal.

In the summer, Avoriaz also offers the traditional mountain hikes! The Portes du Soleil area is huge and offers a wide variety of walks, with breathtaking views. There is something for everyone.

Hiking is an activity that will always be at the heart of people who come to the mountains in summer. Taking a breath of fresh air, enjoying nature and spectacular views.

Hotels in Avoriaz

Hotel des Dromonts ****

Nestled in the heart of Avoriaz’s historic Dromonts district, the Hôtel des Dromonts is the resort’s first building and the first major work by architect Jacques Labro.

Its “roof facade”, covered with tavaillons, gives it an atypical pine cone shape.

This real haven for skiers comprises 35 rooms, all in the spirit of the 1960s, revisited for an intimate atmosphere between wool, wood and slate. It has a Pure Altitude spa and 2 restaurants whose reputation is well established.

Hotel Hotel Neige et Roc ****

Located at the base of Avoriaz ski resort (at the end of the Ardoisières valley and at the foot of the Prodains Express cable car), in a real haven of peace in the heart of a cliff cirque, this gentle paradise has been designed for you and has 30 chic and cosy rooms.

You will find all the assets of a charming chalet hotel with a refined décor.

The hotel has its own wellness area with indoor and outdoor pools, storvatt Nordic bath and a spa. In the restaurant, Chef Nicolas Taberlet offers generous and gourmet cuisine and a well-stocked wine cellar to perfectly combine food and wine.

Hotel MIL8 ****

Inaugurated in 2020 and situated at the foot slopes of teh Avoriaz ski resort, the Mil8 hotel is a true contemporary cocoon at an altitude of 1,800m. Designed with respect to the atypical and mimetic architecture of Avoriaz, the contemporary establishment offers a breathtaking view of the snow-covered peaks.

The hotel offers 42 rooms and suites with a chic mountain decor that invites you to let go. A relaxation area and an outdoor swimming pool with counter-current will make you happy.

The hotel offers home-made cuisine from breakfast to dinner, varying the pleasures and revisiting the classics.

Skiing in Avoriaz: the resort’s strengths

Avoriaz, located in the heart of the French Alps and part of the famous Portes du Soleil ski area, is a resort that stands out for combining modernity, sustainability and a stunning natural environment. From its slopes to its architecture, Avoriaz offers a unique experience for both experienced skiers and families looking for an unforgettable winter holiday. Here we explore the main strengths of this renowned resort.

An exceptional ski area

Avoriaz is part of Les Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s largest ski areas, with over 600 kilometres of interconnected pistes running through France and Switzerland. This allows skiers to explore an incredible variety of terrain, from wide blue runs ideal for beginners to challenging off-piste itineraries for experts.

• Top slopes: The legendary Mur Suisse, known to be one of the steepest slopes in Europe, attracts the bravest skiers.
• Snowparks: Avoriaz is home to some of the best snowparks in the Alps, such as the Snowpark de la Chapelle, perfect for beginners, and The Stash, an innovative eco-friendly snowpark designed in natural wood.

In addition, the resort’s altitude of 2,400 metres guarantees excellent snow quality throughout the season, with frequent snowfalls and careful terrain management.

A car-free resort: sustainability and tranquillity

One of the most distinctive aspects of Avoriaz is its commitment to the environment. Since its creation, it has been a pedestrianised and completely car-free resort. Visitors travel on foot, skis or horse-drawn sleighs, creating a peaceful, safe and pollution-free environment.

This sustainable approach is also reflected in the resort’s architecture, whose wooden buildings blend in perfectly with the mountainous landscape. Avoriaz has received several awards for its eco-design and remains a model for sustainable development in winter sports.

Activities for the whole family

Avoriaz is a resort that shines as a family destination thanks to its wide range of activities for all ages.

• Village des Enfants: This renowned ski centre for children offers lessons and play areas supervised by specialised instructors.
• Aquariaz: A unique alpine water park with slides, heated pools and a lazy river surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, ideal for a break from skiing.
• Sledging and skating: From sleigh rides to a skating rink in the centre of the village, fun is guaranteed off the slopes.

Restaurants on the ski slopes of Avoriaz

If you are looking for typical food, we recommend Les Trappeurs. This restaurant is located at the 3S exit. They specialise in typical Savoyard dishes and the views are magnificent. On the other hand, near the Plateau chairlift you will find ‘La Poya’ which offers a nice terrace and traditional dishes.

Events and après-ski atmosphere

Avoriaz is not only known for its skiing, but also for its vibrant social life. Throughout the season, the resort hosts renowned events such as the Rock On Snow Festival and freestyle competitions that attract skiers and music lovers alike. Après-ski in Avoriaz offers something for everyone, from lively bars such as Le Yak to cosy restaurants serving local specialities such as fondue and raclette.

Connections and accessibility

Getting to Avoriaz is surprisingly easy. It is well connected by road and less than two hours from Geneva airport. Moreover, its system of interconnected ski lifts facilitates mobility within the ski area and allows visitors to explore neighbouring resorts such as Morzine or Les Gets effortlessly.

What experts and visitors say

According to opinions gathered in specialised British forums such as Snowheads and Ski Club of Great Britain, visitors highlight the convenience of moving around the resort without cars, the quality of the snow and the diversity of activities. Avoriaz has also been recognised as ‘Best Family Ski Resort’ at the World Snow Awards, reinforcing its position as a benchmark destination in the Alps.