{{filter.label}}

Vacation in Avoriaz

Loading properties

No properties were found

Avoriaz is a purpose-built ski resort located in the Haute-Savoie region of the French Alps, perched at 1,800 meters on a south-facing plateau above the town of Morzine. It is part of the Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s largest ski areas, connecting 12 resorts across France and Switzerland.

One of Avoriaz's most distinctive features is its car-free design—transport within the resort is done by horse-drawn sleighs or on foot/ski. Buildings are uniquely designed with wood cladding to blend into the alpine landscape.

History of Avoriaz
1960s Origin: Avoriaz was conceived in the early 1960s by French Olympic skier Jean Vuarnet, who wanted to develop a modern ski resort. Vuarnet won gold in the 1960 Winter Olympics and was given control of developing tourism in the Morzine area.

1966: The resort officially opened. Jean Vuarnet collaborated with young architects (notably Jacques Labro) to create a futuristic alpine village with eco-conscious principles, which was revolutionary at the time.

Architecture: The resort is famous for its angular, wood-covered buildings, inspired by the natural landscape, blending modernism with sustainability.

Expansion: Over time, Avoriaz expanded into a central hub of the Portes du Soleil, which now offers over 650 km of skiable terrain.

Typical Food of Avoriaz (and the Region)
Being in Savoy (Savoie), the local cuisine is rich, hearty, and perfect after a day in the mountains:

Tartiflette: A creamy dish of potatoes, onions, bacon (lardons), and Reblochon cheese.

Raclette: Melted cheese served with boiled potatoes, pickles, and charcuterie.

Fondue Savoyarde: Melted cheese (usually Comté, Beaufort, and Emmental) eaten by dipping bread.

Diots: Savoyard pork sausages often cooked in white wine.

Crozets: Small square pasta made from buckwheat, typically served with cheese or cream.

Blueberry tart (Tarte aux Myrtilles): A classic mountain dessert.

Winter Activities in Avoriaz
Skiing & Snowboarding: Over 600 km of pistes in the Portes du Soleil network. Good for beginners and experts alike.

Freestyle Parks: The Stash, a unique eco-friendly snow park with natural features.

Cross-country Skiing: Several scenic trails.

Snowshoeing: Marked trails for non-skiers to explore alpine forests and meadows.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides: A magical way to get around.

Sledding and tobogganing.

Aquariaz: An indoor tropical water park—a rare alpine attraction.

Nightlife: Bars, restaurants, and après-ski spots like La Folie Douce.

Summer Activities in Avoriaz
Avoriaz transforms into a stunning alpine retreat during the warmer months:

Hiking: Over 800 km of marked trails with spectacular views of Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva.

Mountain Biking (MTB): One of the top MTB destinations in Europe. Lift-accessible trails and the Portes du Soleil MTB Pass.

Trail Running: Events and courses designed for mountain running.

Paragliding: Tandem flights offering bird's-eye views of the Alps.

Rock Climbing: Natural rock faces and beginner routes.

Golf: An 18-hole course overlooking the valley.

Horse Riding: Alpine trails on horseback.

Wellness and spa: Many hotels and chalets offer wellness centers.

Family Activities: Archery, pony rides, adventure parks, trampolines, etc.

Summary
Location: Haute-Savoie, French Alps

Altitude: 1,800m

Known for: Car-free resort, unique architecture, part of Portes du Soleil

Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, mountain bikers, nature lovers

Vibe: Modern, eco-conscious, family-friendly, active year-round
Click to show the map