morzine

Transfer Time

2 Hours

Best For

Beginners & Intermediates

Skiing

180Km / 84 Lifts

Ideal For

Families, Couples & Groups

ALPE D'HUEZ AT A GLANCE

morzine  SKI HOLIDAYS



  • Location: Haute-Savoie, France (near the Swiss border)
  • Altitude: Village at 1,000 m | Skiing up to ~2,460 m (Avoriaz)
  • Ski area: Part of the Portes du Soleil, one of the largest linked ski domains in the world
  • Nearest airports: Geneva (≈1 hr 30 min by transfer)

Morzine itself has the cozy feel of a traditional Savoyard market town, with wooden chalets, riverside cafés, and year-round life — it’s not just a purpose-built ski station. The village atmosphere is a big part of its appeal.

🎿 Skiing and Snowboarding

  • Linked Areas: Morzine directly connects to Les Gets on one side and Avoriaz on the other, giving access to over 600 km of pistes across 12 resorts in France and Switzerland.
  • Local Area (Morzine–Les Gets):
  • ~120 km of pistes
  • Rolling, tree-lined runs ideal for beginners and intermediates
  • Great for families and cruisy skiing in bad weather (good tree cover)
  • Avoriaz Connection:
  • Higher altitude and more snow-sure
  • Access to challenging terrain like The Swiss Wall (Le Mur Suisse) and excellent off-piste
  • Linked to resorts like Châtel, Champéry, and Les Crosets
  • Snow reliability:
  • The Morzine–Les Gets sector is relatively low, so snow cover can vary in warm spells.
  • However, Avoriaz’ s higher elevation (1,800–2,460 m) ensures reliable conditions and powder days.

🧭 Terrain Breakdown

Skill Level Terrain Type Highlights Beginners Gentle greens & blues Pleney slopes in Morzine, Les Gets bowl Intermediates Long cruising blues & reds Tree-lined runs to Les Gets, wide pistes in Avoriaz Advanced Steeper reds, blacks, off-piste Swiss Wall, Pointe de Nyon, Lindarets off-piste Snowboarders Excellent freeride and parks Avoriaz has several top-class terrain parks

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WHY WE LOVE MORZINE?

1. Stunning Alpine Scenery

  • Nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, Morzine offers dramatic mountain views year-round — from snow-covered peaks in winter to lush green valleys in summer. The scenery alone makes it feel like a postcard come to life.
  • Perfect resort for beginners
  • Sunny village with lots of other activities.

2. World-Class Skiing & Snowboarding

  • With access to 650km of pistes, Morzine connects easily to Avoriaz, Les Gets, and beyond. It’s perfect for every level — from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling off-piste runs. Plus, the ski lifts rise right from the village, so you can be on the mountain in minutes.

3.  Laid-Back Alpine Village Charm

Morzine retains its traditional Savoyard feel — think wooden chalets, cozy firesides, and friendly locals. It’s not just a ski resort; it’s a real working town with character and community.

Whether it’s live music in the bars, the Harley Days festival, or Tour de France passing through, Morzine always has energy — but it never feels overcrowded or commercial.

Beginners

Morzine is often considered a very approachable resort for people who are new to skiing. Some of the reasons:

  • Gentle terrain & green pistes – there are several dedicated beginner slopes (green runs) and very gentle blue runs that let you build confidence.
  • “Nursery” / kindergarden‐style areas – magic carpets (conveyor belt lifts), ropes or carpet lifts, and secured gentle gradients in safe zones. These are great for first turns, falling safely, learning to stop & turn.
  • Convenient lift access – for many beginner zones you don’t need to travel far or navigate difficult terrain. For example, the Pleney gondola lifts you up from the village centre, and at the top of it there are gentle runs.
  • Good ski schools and rental shops – there are plenty of options for lessons (private & group) for children and adults. The instructors often specialise in beginners.
  • Supportive infrastructure – relaxed “first ski” passes, beginner‐friendly lift passes (“Première Glisse” packages), family discounts, etc.

Key beginner areas in Morzine

Here are some of the specific zones / runs you’d use if you’re just starting:

Area / Lift What you’ll find Why it’s good for beginners Pleney / top of Pleney gondola Green slopes & magic carpets; gentle runs; access to “Première Glisse” beginners’ zone. Very accessible from the village; the slope gradients are forgiving.Nyon sector beginner area Similar beginner package (“1st ski / Première Glisse”) with lifts & magic carpets for gentle slopes. Good alternative to Pleney; useful if you want to spread out or if Pleney is crowded. Green & blue runs off Pleney (Pistes B, C, D)After you’ve had some practice, you might try these slightly longer blue runs with gentle slopes. Helps with progressing: turning, confidence, learning how lifts & altitude feel.Magic carpets, beginners’ lifts e.g. the “Viking” & “Nabor” carpets, etc. Low speed; safe and easy; minimal fear factor.


Intermediates

What makes Morzine good for intermediates

  1. Lots of blue & red terrain
    Morzine + Les Gets have a large share of their pistes in the blue/red categories, so there’s plenty of runs where you can cruise and practice technique.
  2. You also have access to the full Portes du Soleil ski area (600 km+ of pistes), so you can explore beyond Morzine itself when you want a change.
  3. Variety of slopes, gradients & exposure
  • Tree-lined runs around Morzine/Les Gets are ideal when weather is less favourable — they’re sheltered and tend to offer gentler gradients.
  • Higher up, on slopes like Nyon or Chamossière, you’ll get more open runs, longer descents, more exposure, and steeper blue/red runs. Great for building confidence and endurance.
  1. Good lift infrastructure & variety
    There are gondolas, chairlifts, bubbles etc that give access to a mix of runs. For example, from Morzine you have lifts like Pléney, Super Morzine (which connects up to Avoriaz), etc.
  2. Because of this, you can choose runs based on how tired you are, snow quality, or what kind of day you want — long cruisy blues, steeper reds, or mixing them.
  3. Scenic & enjoyable environment
    Skiing in Morzine isn’t just about the technical side; the environment adds a lot. Views from the high points like Pointe de Nyon are striking. Many runs sweep across tree lines, meadows, ridges. The town itself is charming with good amenities.

Some favourite intermediate runs & circuits

Here are some runs or circuits that intermediates often like in Morzine:

  • From Pléney: take blue runs like La Chardon, then Bruyere, finishing down to Les Gets. This gives good warm-ups + variety.
  • The runs from Pointe de Nyon: you’ll find wide blue runs, with more challenging sections if you want to push yourself.
  • The circuit via Les Gets involving runs like La Violette, Renardière, Mélezes (red/blue) is another popular route.



Advanced

Terrain & Difficulty

For advanced skiers, Morzine offers a solid mix of challenging options, though it’s not extreme-steep-everywhere. The advanced terrain tends to be:

  • Black runs (marked pistes with steep gradients, moguls, varied snow) — several in Mont Chéry, Chamossière, La Rosta etc.
  • Hard reds (steep, technical, often with pitch changes) for testing technique, carving, speed control.
  • Off-piste terrain — bowls, couloirs, freeride zones when snow and weather allow.

Some of the standout steep or “test-yourself” spots:

  • Chamossière: top of the Chamossière chairlift gives access to a black run, tough red, and off-piste terrain.
  • Yeti black under the Rosta chairlift — especially once some bumps have developed.
  • Mont Chéry: shaded faces, steeper pitches and more “serious” terrain.
  • The Swiss Wall (Chavanette) in the Portes du Soleil, an infamous section for advanced/expert skiers: steep, mogul-heavy, very demanding.

Snow, Aspect & Conditions

These factors are crucial in Morzine:

  • Altitude: The base of Morzine is relatively low (~1,000m) which means snow quality, depth and consistency can vary especially lower down or on south-facing slopes.
  • Higher sections, especially Chamossière, Avoriaz and Mont Chéry, are more snow-sure, especially deeper terrain and shaded (north) aspects where snow stays better and off-piste is more reliable.
  • Moguls / bumps tend to build up on blacks and steeper reds later in the day or after repeated usage. Be ready for mixed snow, crusts, or frozen bumps.
  • Weather / avalanches: Off-piste and freeride areas (e.g. above Chamossière) can be avalanche prone under certain conditions. Always check snow/weather forecast and avalanche risk. Guides/local knowledge are very useful.

Access & Lift System

Getting into the “good stuff” is fairly accessible:

  • The lift network connects Morzine to Les Gets and Avoriaz, meaning you can reach advanced terrain without huge trekking.
  • Some advanced runs are near the top of lifts (Chamossière, Pléney, Rosta etc), others require moving up via higher gondolas/chairlifts.
  • Early morning is best: to get fresh snow, fewer moguls, more firm grip before sun softens surfaces. Late afternoon often means bumped, slushy, or icy depending on temperature.

What Skills & Equipment You’ll Want

To make the most of advanced skiing in Morzine, you’ll want:

  • Strong technique on steeps: ability to control speed, turn handling in variable terrain, bump skiing if necessary.
  • Good edge control: when surfaces are icy, wind-packed, or when carving on red or black runs.
  • Proper gear: well-tuned skis (maybe wider underfoot if you plan off-piste), safety kit if going off piste (avalanche transceiver / probe / shovel), and ideally skiing with someone who knows the area or a guide.
  • Awareness of conditions (weather, snow quality) to pick which runs / aspects will be best that day.


Family Skiing

Why Morzine is Ideal for Families

  • Beginner-Friendly Terrain: Morzine boasts wide, gentle slopes perfect for novices. The Pleney area features two beginner zones equipped with magic carpets—enclosed conveyor lifts that are especially suitable for children and first-time skiers. These areas are designed to build confidence before progressing to more challenging runs.
  • Themed Ski Zones: Children can enjoy themed areas like the Milka Run, a playful blue run with tree-lined paths, and 'Lil' Stash', a woodland play area featuring treehouses and a giant banana swing. These zones add an element of fun to the skiing experience.
  • Ski Schools for All Ages: Local ski schools offer lessons starting from age 3, with programs tailored to various skill levels. Many instructors speak English, making it accessible for international families.
  • Off-Slope Activities: Beyond skiing, Morzine provides a range of family activities, including ice skating at the outdoor rink in the village center, snowshoeing trails, and sledging adventures. The Parc des Dérêches features an indoor swimming pool and wellness center, perfect for relaxation after a day on the slopes.

Accommodation Options

Morzine offers various family-friendly accommodations:

  • Chalet Hotels: Establishments like Chilly Powder in Les Prodains cater specifically to families, offering childcare services, ski school coordination, and family-centric amenities. Guests can enjoy movie nights, hot tubs, and gourmet dinners, ensuring both parents and children have a memorable stay.
  • Self-Catering Apartments: For families preferring flexibility, self-catering options are available, allowing for personalized meal planning and schedules.
  • Ski-in/Ski-out Chalets: Staying close to the lifts or nursery slopes minimizes walking in ski boots and maximizes time on the snow, which is especially beneficial for families with young children.


Ski Schools

ESF Morzine & Avoriaz

  • Overview: As part of France’s national ski school, ESF boasts over 360 instructors across Morzine and Avoriaz.
  • Offerings: Group and private lessons for all ages and abilities, including off-piste guiding and biathlon experiences.
  • Highlights: English-speaking instructors and a reputation for high-quality instruction.

🏆 New Generation Ski School

  • Overview: An award-winning British-run school with over 25 years of experience.
  • Offerings: Small group sizes and private lessons tailored to individual needs.
  • Highlights: Highly rated by families for their friendly and professional approach.

🌟 The Snow School

  • Overview: A premium school known for its personalized instruction.
  • Offerings: Small group sizes (4–6 pupils) and private lessons.
  • Highlights: Ideal for those seeking focused attention and rapid progression.

Easy2Ride

  • Overview: A friendly, English-speaking school offering tailored lessons.
  • Offerings: Private and small group lessons in Morzine and Avoriaz.
  • Highlights: Emphasis on fun and confidence-building for all ages.

Supreme Ski School

  • Overview: A well-regarded school with over 30 years of experience.
  • Offerings: Private and group lessons for children and adults, including off-piste instruction.
  • Highlights: Professional instruction with a focus on small group sizes.

Ski With Ease

  • Overview: An English-speaking school offering private lessons.
  • Offerings: 1:1 and family group lessons tailored to individual needs.
  • Highlights: Ideal for those seeking a personalized, stress-free learning experience.

 Ski Schools for Children

For families, Morzine offers several excellent options:

  • ESF Morzine: Provides group lessons for children aged 3 and up, with English-speaking instructors.
  • New Generation: Offers small group sizes and private lessons tailored to children's needs.
  • The Snow School: Specializes in small group sizes (4–6 pupils) for personalized instruction.
  • Easy2Ride: Focuses on building confidence and fun for young skiers.
  • Supreme Ski School: Provides professional instruction with a focus on small group sizes.

🏔️ Ski Schools for Adults

Adults seeking to improve their skiing or snowboarding skills can choose from:

  • ESF Morzine & Avoriaz: Offers group and private lessons for all levels.
  • New Generation: Provides tailored lessons with a focus on individual progress.
  • The Snow School: Specializes in small group sizes for personalized attention.
  • Easy2Ride: Emphasizes fun and confidence-building for adult learners.
  • Supreme Ski School: Offers professional instruction with a focus on small group sizes.



Ski Hire

Top Ski Hire Shops in Morzine

1. Caribou Sport

  • Overview: Highly recommended for its top-quality equipment and exceptional service.
  • Services: Offers free delivery to your accommodation, making it convenient for families and groups.
  • Location: Three shops in Morzine, including one near the Pleney lift.

2. Intersport

  • Overview: A well-known chain with multiple locations in Morzine.
  • Services: Provides online booking, a wide range of equipment, and options for home delivery.
  • Locations:
  • Rue du Bourg: 180 Rue du Bourg
  • Super Morzine: 9 Taille Mas de la Passerelle
  • Télé Pleney: 614 Avenue de Joux Plane

3. Pleney Sports

  • Overview: Located at the base of the Pleney lift, ideal for those staying nearby.
  • Services: Offers ski and snowboard rentals, snowshoe hire, and equipment sales.

4. Sport 2000

  • Overview: A French chain offering competitive prices.
  • Services: Provides ski and snowboard hire, including kids' equipment.

5. Francois Baud Freeride

  • Overview: An independent shop located behind the Pleney gondola station.
  • Services: Offers a range of equipment and personalized service.

💰 Pricing Overview

  • 6-Day Ski Hire:
  • Eco: €60
  • Progression: €97
  • Performance: €83
  • Premium: €124
  • 3-Day Ski Hire:
  • Eco: €41
  • Progression: €71
  • Performance: €57
  • Premium: €90
  • Snowboard Hire:
  • 6-Day: €107–€190
  • 3-Day: €73–€135

Note: Prices may vary based on the rental shop and time of booking. It's advisable to book online in advance for potential discounts.

🧒 Family-Friendly Options

  • Pleney Sports is particularly convenient for families, being located at the base of the Pleney lift and close to ski schools.
  • Intersport offers a range of equipment suitable for all ages and levels.
  • Caribou Sport provides free delivery, which is beneficial for families staying in private accommodations.

🛠️ Additional Services

  • Equipment Maintenance: Most shops offer tuning and maintenance services to ensure your gear is in top condition.
  • Home Delivery: Caribou Sport and Intersport provide delivery services, adding convenience to your rental experience.
  • Online Booking Discounts: Booking online in advance can often result in significant discounts, sometimes up to 60%.

✅ Tips for Choosing the Right Rental Shop

  • Location: Choose a shop close to your accommodation or the ski lifts for convenience.
  • Equipment Quality: Opt for shops that offer well-maintained and high-quality equipment.
  • Additional Services: Consider shops that provide extra services like delivery, maintenance, and online booking discounts.
  • Family Needs: If traveling with children, select shops that offer a wide range of children's equipment and are located near ski schools.

If you need assistance comparing specific rental packages or finding the best deals for your travel dates, feel free to ask!

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