As well as being a popular ski resort, Morzine is a proper little alpine town that has a life that goes far beyond what happens on the slopes. There is so much to this town that you should definitely do your research before you go.
Luckily, in this article I will share with you how you can enjoy the thrilling slopes and the lively après-ski scene all while staying in gorgeous, chic accommodation.
Some Basics About Morzine
Morzine has been winter ski resort since before the first world war, it used to be a place where wealthy guests would go to spend the winter and enjoy skating on the frozen lake and skiing in the rolling pastures. Nowadays, Morzine is considered the capital of the 650km Portes du Soleil, the largest international ski area in Europe.
Where Is It?
Morzine is located in the Haute Savoie region of France. Only an hour away from Geneva airport, it is one of the most accessible ski resorts, especially for Brits!
When’s the Best Time to Ski?
Choosing when to head for the slopes can be a difficult decision. Have no fear, Morzine is as good in summer as it is in winter, so here is a quick break down of what the slopes are like, month by month.
January is a very underrated month; most people have gone back to school and work after the Christmas break so the slopes are almost empty and you don’t need to worry about lift queues. The weather is usually pretty cold, but really, this just makes for the best snow conditions.
February is not such a quiet month, the school holidays in France begin! While those with children will be restricted, it is important to note that accommodation is often booked months in advance.
March is slightly warmer and the sun comes out for longer each day. The snow quality may not be the best but is still a popular month.
April is the snowiest month owing to the spring showers. The weather is great for long and relaxing lunches in the sun and the slopes are fairly quiet. It’s also a great time to grab an end-of-season deal!
May, June, July and August are the summer months, the weather is hotter and the outdoor activities are booming. You might find skiing a bit harder in the summer months!
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September is when the rain starts, the temperature starts to cool down but it is still great for outdoor activities.
Just in case you were thinking of going in October and November, be warned, most places are closed and taking a break in preparation for the winter season. The whole resort will be very quiet, the lifts will be closed and the weather will be getting colder and wetter.
The Best Slopes
No matter what level of skier you are, if you know where to go, the skiing in Morzine is superb. The top of the lift system goes all the way up to 2466m, although as many people know, this isn’t always a guarantee of good conditions.
Intermediate level skiers will love how much they can explore the valleys and slopes while based in Morzine. The variety of choices is huge and ranges from open slopes up high to lovely tree-lined runs lower down. Those more advanced skiers can easily find themselves a challenge nearby with the the Swiss Wall, as well as the steep off-piste descents from Les Haut Forts down to Les Prodains. Last but by no means least, beginners will find themselves well-catered for too by a combination of excellent British ski schools and some fantastic nursery slopes.
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It’s Not All About the Slopes
Although it seems unlikely that you’ll be going on a skiing holiday if you don’t want to ski, it can happen. Maybe you’re going away with friends but are thinking you’ll spend your time enjoying the local life than skiing. Morzine is a great choice for those families and groups where not everyone wants to ski. With a great selection of slopes for the skiers and a huge choice of other activities for everyone else, Morzine has it all.
Some of the other activities that don’t involve you tumbling down a snowy hill include ice skating on a world class ice rink, relaxing in a spa or ice diving in a frozen lake! In the summer months there are activities like mountain biking, paragliding, golfing, fishing and canyoning.
Accommodation
Morzine has a very wide range of accommodation options, and people with every budget and style will be able to find something to suit them. There are three main types of accommodation available in Morzine:
Chalets
The most classic of all the accommodation options, people normally assume chalets are only for large groups, but there are stunning Morzine chalets available for every size of party. Chalet can either come self-catered, which is of course when you purchase all of your own food, or they come with a meal package. You will have your own chalet host, who will prepare meals, drinks and snacks for your party each day. Not only is this a way to get a bit of luxury, it will likely save you money too, as food in the French Alps is notoriously expensive.
A chalet will be the only accommodation option that will give you a log burning fire, which is a quintessential skiing stereotype, but one that people will love to take advantage of. If you want a traditional ski trip accommodation, choose a chalet and enjoy an alpine feel with wood and checked fabrics aplenty.
Apartments
An apartment is a good way to lower costs for smaller parties- though don’t assume ‘apartment’ means an ugly block of flats! Apartments are most frequently self-catering, and tend to be in the centre of Morzine too, so they’re very close to all the amenities.
Hotels
Often a pricier choice, hotels are the option to go for if you don’t want the hassle of doing anything for yourself. You can occasionally find a good deal, but bear in mind there’s nowhere to cook your own meals so you’ll need to rely on pricier resort food during your stay.
Food
There are so many excellent places to eat in Morzine, it’s difficult to highlight just a few.
For cheap and cheerful food, try Mamma’s for main meals, and Le Schuss Creperie for snacks and iconic French crepes. Barbecue is also a firm favourite in Morzine, and places such as La Paika and the Inferno Terrace Restaurant are well loved for their food.
If you’re looking for fine dining, try L’Atelier- it’s achieved a coveted Michelin star and offers both taster menus and delicious meat and fish options.
There’s no shortage of delicious meal options at all prices- so whether you’re on a budget or are ready to splash out, your tummy will be satisfied.
With this guide, you’re ready to take to the slopes of Morzine and have a fabulous ski trip! Whether you’re on a big or small budget, and prefer an adventurous holiday or a quiet one, you’ll love what Morzine has to offer you and your loved ones.
The post An Insider Guide to Morzine: Where to Ski, Stay and Eat appeared first on Travel Destination Bucket List.
