With access to one of the biggest and best ski areas in the world, a fantastic selection of accommodation and brilliant off-slope activities on offer, it’s no wonder we’ve picked the brilliant Avoriaz as our resort of the month for February. Read on to find out more about why we chose it…
Les Portes du Soleil
Avoriaz is located at the heart of one of the world’s biggest ski areas, consisting of 12 linked resorts on either side of the French-Swiss border. The ski area covers 400 square kilometres, and offers 300 pistes, 199 ski lifts and 30 snowparks. This means the resort has access to a fantastic range of ski terrain to suit all levels. Beginners are particularly well catered for in Avoriaz with a great range of ski schools on offer, including the Village des Enfants in the centre of the resort. Intermediates won’t get tired of the brilliant number of blue and red runs in the Portes du Soleil and it has over 30 black runs to choose from, including the World Cup Downhill which drops from Les Hauts Forts, so advanced skiers shouldn’t get bored easily either.
Snowfall
As one of the highest resorts in the Alps, snow cover throughout the season is rarely an issue in Avoriaz season. The recent snowfall in the Alps saw Avoriaz get a great amount of fresh powder – check out some of these photos to see for yourself!
Accommodation
Avoriaz offers a great range of ski-in/ski-out accommodation, located right on the slopes. An added bonus is that several of our Avoriaz accommodations offer short breaks, which is ideal if you aren't able to spend a full week skiing. Here are some of our favourite places to stay in the resort…
Residence Atria-Crozats is a fantastic ski-in/ski-out accommodation, offering fantastic views over the resort and down into Morzine. With bright and spacious living areas, well-equipped kitchens and balconies, these apartments are perfect for a trip to Avoriaz. The accommodation is located a short walk from the centre of the resort and for a small fee guests can also access the sauna, steam room and fitness suite.
Another great choice of accommodation is Residence L’Amara, which is ideally located right on the slopes by the Falaise area of the resort. It offers guests stunning and modern apartments, a swimming pool, sauna and a gym. Those looking for a bit of relaxation can take advantage of the Deep Nature Spa. It is also the only accommodation in the pedestrianised resort of Avoriaz with its own car park.
The more budget-friendly Residence Saskia Falaise offers conveniently located apartments with brilliant views down into the Morzine valley. As well as being right next to the slopes, the accommodation is close to the resort’s bars, shops and restaurants.
Chalet Neige et Roc is a hotel located in a hamlet at the base of the Prodains lift, which provides easy access to the resort (there is also a free bus to the town of Morzine, running from just outside the hotel). The classic Alpine accommodation offers guests a spa, Swedish hot bath, restaurant and sun terrace, as well as cosy rooms.
Activities
Avoriaz offers a number of great activities to keep you busy when you’re not strapped into your ski boots. You could try dog sledding or snowshoeing. There’s also the opportunity to go mountain biking on snow in the evenings after the pistes have closed to skiers. Plus, there’s an outdoor ice rink in the centre of the resort.
If you want to get off the snow for a while, there’s a great sports centre with a number of fitness classes available. Plus, don’t forget about the fantastic Aquariaz – the water fun park is heated and decked out with plants and trees to take on a tropical climate. There are flumes and water jets available, as well as a spa area.
For the thrill-seekers, Evolution 2 offer paragliding in the Portes du Soleil area throughout the season. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, you’ll be treated to the most fantastic view over the picturesque mountains.
© V Dupé - Avoriaz Tourisme
Restaurants
Avoriaz is very family-oriented so there are a great selection of affordable restaurants to cater for all tastes both on the mountain and in the resort. If you’re up on the pistes heading towards Switzerlend, Coquoz gets good reviews for its great cuisine. The Creamailliere is situated in the lovely hamlet of Les Lindarets and serves some delicious Savoyard specialities. Le Yeti is also a popular option, located on the way down to the resort centre, serving simple French specialities. It’s also a popular après spot.
In the resort itself, there are also a number of dining options. Les Fontaines Blanches offers a fantastic fondue and raclette if you’re after Savoyard specialities. It also does great pizzas, along with La Falaise pizzeria, which offers takeaway options as well. Les Enfants Terribles in Hotel des Dromonts is a brilliant choice if you’re after classic French cuisine. The Lodge at Residence L’Amara provides a simple menu, with the added bonus of fantastic views over the valley.
Après-Ski
Traditionally Avoriaz has been regarded as a resort for families but the après scene is growing, with over 40 bars available to kick back and relax in after a long day on the slopes. Residence L’Amara and Hotel des Dromonts both offer their own stylish bars. However, if it’s a late night you’re after, Le Yak is probably your best bet. The bar/club keeps the records spinning until 4am. While not open as late, Le Shooters is also a great option for a night out, with over 50 shots to choose from – expect it to be loud.
If live music is your thing, then Le Chapka is located in the Falaise area and features acts some nights. It has a great atmosphere and attracts a good crowd. The Place is also a good option for live music, hosting Avoriaz Night Parties and events in the renowned Avoriaz Jazz Up festival in April. If you are a music festival buff, Avoriaz is hosting the legendary Snowboxx this March, and Rock the Pistes will be taking place in the Portes du Soleil that same week.
© Avoriaz Tourisme
You can find out more about the resort of Avoriaz on our website. PowderBeds are ski accommodation specialists – you can browse our full range of resorts and accommodations from our homepage. If you would like some expert advice about accommodation or resorts, please contact the PowderBeds team on 0131 240 3300 or [email protected]
Posted on Wednesday 17 Feb 2016