Are you considering a luxury holiday?
Our team has over 50 years luxury travel experience
We can find the perfect luxury property for you
Book a Call Enquire OnlineBY - Will Davis , 7 October 2024 - VIEW ALL ARTICLES
As you arrive in the village, you’ll notice what a multicultural place it is. Over the years Morzine has attracted mountain lovers from all over the globe and their influence and culture are ubiquitous for all to enjoy. Many diverse restaurants and boutiques are offering all manner of cuisine and the latest ski and fashion wear. The central square is a lively place with frequent live music, and festivals and, surrounded by bars, it is undoubtedly the place for an après ski drink.
We love Morzine’s breathtaking mountain scenery. Surrounded by majestic peaks and lush green meadows lined with thousands of pine trees, Morzine offers a picturesque setting that appeals to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, the stunning landscapes provide a sense of tranquillity and a playground for adventure.
The town exudes a sense of authenticity with its traditional alpine architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and cosy mountain chalets. Visitors are enamoured by the friendly and laid-back ambience, which creates a sense of community and warmth. Moreover, Morzine boasts a vibrant social scene, with a multitude of restaurants, bars, and cafes where people can savour delicious local cuisine, unwind after a day on the slopes, or simply soak up the lively après-ski culture.
The Portes de Soleil ski area is fully open from around mid-December to the end of April, although naturally, we’d recommend going mid-season for the best snow. In summer, the Morzine lifts are open from mid-June to the beginning of September. The busiest month of the year is February.
Morzine is 1 hour and 20 minutes from Geneva airport by car making it a perfect resort for families with young children.
Skiing in Morzine and the Portes du Soleil ski area is a truly remarkable experience that attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. With over 650 kilometres of interconnected slopes, it is one of the largest ski areas in the world. The vast and varied terrain caters to all levels of skiers, from beginners to advanced riders, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
One of the standout features of skiing in Morzine is the accessibility and convenience. The town itself is well-equipped with ski lifts, making it easy to access the slopes directly from the village. From there, a network of modern chairlifts and gondolas transports skiers to the higher altitudes, where they can explore the expansive ski area. Skiers have the choice of heading up on the Super Morzine cable car to get across to Avoriaz, and beyond to Chatel and into Switzerland, or to explore the numerous local pistes extending as far as Les Gets on the other side. There are several nursery slopes around Morzine, and some easy beginners’ pistes at Mont Ranfolly, whilst experts can test their nerves on the near-vertical, mogul-covered Swiss Wall on a luxury ski holiday in Morzine.
Morzine is known for its pine tree-covered mountain faces, which make for plenty of wonderful tree runs perfect for all abilities. Up in Avoriaz, snowboarders and skiers looking to perfect some tricky, ones should take advantage of the Stash Snowpark. Known for its unique and eco-friendly approach, the Stash Avoriaz is a one-of-a-kind snowpark. It combines natural elements such as wooden obstacles, fallen trees, and rock formations with traditional park features. The Stash offers a creative and playful environment for riders to explore, encouraging a more organic and adventurous approach to freestyle. The Lil’stash has been designed specifically for children with a fearless nature to have their first freestyle experience. There are whoops, little kickers, and boxes all at ground level to ensure they stay safe and in control.
Morzine, nestled amidst the breathtaking French Alps, offers a multitude of enticing activities and attractions that extend beyond the realm of skiing. One of the most popular activities in Morzine during the warmer months is mountain biking. The area transforms into a haven for mountain bikers, with an extensive network of trails catering to all skill levels. From leisurely rides through picturesque meadows to adrenaline-pumping downhill descents, there’s something for everyone. You can rent bikes and equipment in town or join guided tours to explore the stunning alpine landscapes on two wheels.
For those seeking a dose of adventure, paragliding offers a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience. Glide through the sky, propelled by the wind, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas below. Tandem flights with experienced pilots are available, allowing you to soar above the mountains and valleys, taking in the panoramic views of Morzine from a unique perspective.
There’s an array of excellent family-friendly activities in Morzine too. Experience the thrill of sledging down the slopes on a dedicated sledging run. Rent a sledge and enjoy an exhilarating ride down the specially-designed tracks. Or spend the afternoon at the Aquatic Centre with indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, Jacuzzis, and wellness facilities. Take a refreshing swim, relax in the warm water, or enjoy the water slides for some family-friendly fun.
Exploring the village of Morzine is a delightful experience in itself. Wander through the quaint streets lined with charming chalets, browse the local shops for unique souvenirs and Alpine products, and savour the delectable cuisine at cosy restaurants and cafés. Immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming atmosphere, and perhaps, catch one of the cultural events or festivals that often take place such as Rock the Pistes. Rock the Pistes is an annual music festival which spreads across the Portes du Soleil ski area with incredible live music from some big names!
Outside of your luxury ski chalet in Morzine, you will find a range of fantastic restaurants to choose from. If you’re on the hunt for a traditional Savoyard meal, we highly recommend trying La Grange. This charming fairy-lit restaurant serves up hearty dishes like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The rustic ambience and friendly staff create the perfect setting for indulging in these rich and flavoursome mountain specialities.
For those seeking a more modern and innovative culinary experience, L’Atelier d’Alexandre is a standout choice. With its Michelin-starred chef at the helm, this refined restaurant showcases creative dishes that blend traditional French cuisine with contemporary flair. The tasting menu offers an exceptional dining experience, highlighting seasonal ingredients and expertly crafted flavours that will leave you in awe.
When it comes to après-ski and evening drinks, Le Tremplin is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Located near Le Stade home run, this lively bar offers a vibrant atmosphere, live music, and a vast selection of beers, wines, and spirits. Enjoy a refreshing pint of local craft beer or unwind with a signature cocktail – the friendly bartenders are skilled in their craft and can whip up both classic and innovative cocktails tailored to your taste.
If you’re not ready to call it a night there, head down to The Cavern Bar. One of the liveliest bars in Morzine, you can expect to dance until 2 am. Situated in the heart of Morzine, just by the town square, true to its name, The Cavern Bar is underground.
There aren’t many world-class ski resorts within an hour and a half of an international airport, but quick and easy access is one of the many good reasons to visit the charming French village of Morzine, one of the best ski resorts in France.
If Morzine wore a crown, Chalet Sapphire would certainly be one of the predominant jewels. Every inch of this luxury ski chalet in Morzine has been carefully thought about to create a chalet experience like no other. Relaxation and wellness are at the soul of Chalet Sapphire, with a luxurious indoor swimming pool, hammam, hydrotherapy shower, an outdoor barrel sauna as well as an all-important outdoor hot tub. Aside from the impressive spa facilities, Chalet Sapphire lends itself perfectly to groups looking to socialise together in the evenings. The cinema room has surround sound and a 4K screen for a movie night. Downstairs, you’ll also find an excellent bar area with a pool table for those with a competitive streak!
A little further outside Morzine, in the quaint village of Montriond, is Chalet La Maison. An 18th-century building that has been lovingly restored to become one of Morzine’s most impressive luxury ski chalets. Part of its charm is that despite the major change it underwent, the architects have managed to keep most of the original building intact including the 250-year-old beams that hold it together. As soon as you enter Chalet La Maison, you’re met with a huge stone staircase which gives you a glimpse into what you can expect from the rest of the chalet. Truly an extraordinary chalet with huge living/dining areas that somehow still feel cosy. The spa area boasts a beautiful indoor swimming pool, hammam and an indoor jacuzzi. Throughout the chalet there are plenty of options to take yourself off for a quiet moment, including the library with armchairs and stunning artwork.
Coined the “James Bond Chalet”, Chalet Joux Plane is incredibly impressive to even the most discerning guests. Begin your luxury ski holiday in Morzine by entering Joux Plane via a 15-metre tunnel underground. The first thing you will want to do is gawk at all the high-tech, innovative features within the chalet. The indoor-outdoor pool means you can pick and choose how much mountain air you get during your spa experience. You will certainly be able to fill your days in Joux Plane with the cinema room, art gallery, library, and children’s playroom. We imagine we’d find 007 drinking a martini in the mezzanine bar area!
Written by
Will is a keen traveller and writer. When he's not travelling the world or writing about it, he's managing the marketing for Firefly Collection.