The Winter

 Morzine is found in the Haute-Savoie region at the northern end of the French Alps. Conveniently only about an hour and 20 minutes drive from Geneva airport, making for an easy transfer, as well as being close enough to be able to enjoy the attractions of Lac Leman (lake Geneva), Evian and other nearby towns such as Annecy and Chamonix. The weather of the region is a healthy mix of Mediterranean influences during the summer and Arctic fronts through the winter, making it a suitable place all year round.

It was in 1934 the first lift was built in Morzine and although most skiing was still kept to the lower slopes it was a sign of the growing popularity of the sport. In the 1960’s Jean Vuarnet became director of the resort and set about developing Avoriaz and with it the Portes du Soleil. During the winter months life in Morzine is all about enjoying the snow. With all forms of skiing and snowboarding catered for in abundance, the Portes du Soleil is the ideal choice for any winter sports enthusiast.

Taking in 14 French and Swiss resorts, stretching from Abondance and Chatel to Les Gets and across to Champery and Torgon in Switzerland, not forgetting Morzine and Avoriaz in the middle of it all, the Portes du Soleil is vast (650km of pistes) and truly has more to offer than just something for everyone.
Morzine town is stunning when dressed for winter, with a feel of eternal Christmas; it retains its sense of community. Still resembling the original village with wooden facades, carved balconies and slate roofs.

Although Skiing and Snowboarding are the most common reasons for coming here in winter they are far from the only activities available, as parapenting, snow-mobiling, ice-skating or dog sledding are some of many activities available without missing any of your skiing day. However most people come here for the skiing and it is no surprise why.  A couple of lifts can be taken directly from Morzine. The Pleney Telecabine accesses the plateau and is the best place for your early days and those in lessons, by offering the best range of blues and greens and being accessible on foot. The other side of town takes you to Super Morzine which links directly to Avoriaz, which is also accessible via the Telepherique de Prodain. All are a short hop from either chalet and also easily linked via the free bus service.

For those that are after a challenge in their skiing there are many hidden off-piste gems, including the trees of Lindaret or Combette, the infamous Swiss Wall, Chamossiere and the Col du Fornet, running down the head of the Valley de la Manche, almost to the door of Chalet Chambertin.

Avoriaz was the first resort in Europe to build a snowboard park and has maintained a reputation for being at the forefront of catering for the freestyle generation ever since. These days there are 3 parks in Avoriaz alone, with also a rail run through the trees of Lindaret and for 2008 a Burton sponsored Stash run, another first for Europe. There are also parks in Crozet, Chatel and Mont Cherie, altogether catering for complete first timers to the world’s best, as well as everyone in between.  The scope of variety and choice means you can ski a different area each day of the week and almost need not to follow the same piste twice.  If you fancy getting away from the crowds and enjoying some of the most beautiful areas, there are numerous ski de fond (cross country) tracks as well.