Nestled in the middle of one of the most extensive ski regions in the Alps, once a rural market town, Morzine has emerged as a real favourite amongst skiers seeking a luxurious yet relaxed ski holiday. This charming Alpine resort has developed into a highly sought after ski resort and provides the perfect base to explore one of the largest ski areas in the Alps.
Portes du Soleil, literally meaning “The Doors of the Sun,” boasts 650km of piste and encompasses 13 different ski resorts in both France and Switzerland. Morzine is an ever-evolving luxury ski resort with new top end ski chalets, lively and diverse bars and excellent restaurants popping up each season, and a growing number of non-skiing activities available in the valley. Family-friendly by day and lively by night, a luxury chalet holiday in Morzine really does offer it all.
It would be wrong to consider Morzine just for its location. With cruisy tree-lined skiing and an abundance of fine dining options, it should definitely not be overlooked. The slopes, predominantly of a blue and red variety, are an intermediates haven.
Head to the bars at the bottom on the Pleney lift for an afternoon of apres. Popular spots include the terrace in Hotel Le Tremplin and the Le Coup de Coeur in the town square for a wide choice of excellent beer and good wine. Try the Bec Jaune micro brewery for some beautiful alpine beers and delicious tapas.
In the evening, delight the taste buds with Asian inspired cuisine in the Hideout Hostel restaurant, sample traditional Savoyarde flavours at La Rotonde or if you are looking for a simple fix, choose from a menu of mouth-watering burgers at O Chalet.
If a late night is what the heart desires, then try The Cavern Bar and l’Opera nightclub which are within stumbling distance of each other! However, for those who like a sense of exploration and adventure, the resort is the key to an area with bags of Savoyarde authenticity and Swiss charm.
The Portes du Soleil’s location between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva means that it benefits from a micro-climate, providing a high amount of precipitation in the powder form. The mountains cause the moist air from the lake to rise, bringing snowfall.
It is possible to complete a whistle-stop tour of the ski area in one day. A good intermediate could expect to finish the loop in approximately 6 hours (not including a lunch break or visiting Les Gets). The Pleney lift from the centre of town whisks you up to the Morzine ski area and then on to the rustic village of Les Gets. This resort, previously a small farming village, is well known for its gentle terrain and family friendly nature. You can also use the Nyon lift at the Southern end of the Morzine valley.
Skiers can head up towards the purpose-built resort of Avoriaz on both the Super Morzine and Prodains lifts. Dance on the tables at the brand new La Folie Douce or sit back in the sun at the excellent nearby Yeti Bar which also offers mouthwatering steaks and burgers to keep you well fuelled. Ski down to Ardent at the end of the day, passing the goat farming village of Les Lindarets and finishing up in the popular apres venue “Happy Hours”. Part of the loop takes you over the border to the small and pretty Swiss resorts of Les Crosets, Champoussin, Champery, Morgins and Torgon. Expect a chocolate-box setting!
For those who like a challenge, take the Chavanette lift from Avoriaz and conquer the infamous Pas de Chavanette (more commonly known as the Swiss Wall). The run begins in France and ends in Switzerland. The gradient is so steep that you cannot see what you are about to take on and the 76% incline with moguls thrown in the mix make this a tricky but rewarding proposition!
Efforts have been made to retain character in the resort, by keeping construction to a low level and converting old buildings into luxury accommodation. The chalets in our portfolio in Morzine are traditional in style but designed to a high specification with no compromises made on modern comfort. Here are our top Morzine ski chalet picks to ensure your trip to the Portes du Soleil is both luxurious and memorable…
Lodge des Nants is authentic in style, features a large terrace with a hot tub and views over Morzine. Contemporary furniture and lighting have been used to create that ultimate luxury feel. Take advantage of the inviting indoor swimming pool, barrel sauna, cinema room and hammam. Located in a quiet area and just 5-10 minutes by foot from the centre of resort, guests get the best of both worlds.
After a long day of skiing, you know that your needs will be catered for in this stunning chalet. The impressive spa facilities on offer will ensure that you can unwind and relax in style. The hot tub out on the decking provides stunning views of Morzine at night, perfect for sitting back with a glass of wine from the cellar. Chalet Sapphire (12 guests) can be combined with the neighbouring Chalet Little Gem to create Chalet Sapphire Gem (16 guests).
The extensive skiing, rich history and wealth of entertainment on offer makes Morzine and the rest of the Portes du Soleil a perfect choice for your next ultimate luxury ski holiday.
If you would like more information on the ski resort of Morzine or to experience one of these luxury chalets for yourself, then contact one of our Ski Specialists on +44 1202 203653 or send us an email.
Blue Skies Lifestyle Ltd, established in 2005, is an online luxury ski holiday agent that specialises in finding clients the perfect luxury ski chalet in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. We feature an extensive portfolio of luxury chalet accommodation and luxury ski hotels that are ideal for group and family luxury ski holidays.
