The historical market town of Morzine nestles in the side of the Chamossiere mountain, and has done so since the 12th century when a group of Cistercian monks set up a farm on the hillside. By the 19th century, Morzine had become an important slate production centre – and then the winter sports revolution began. Now Morzine is the epicentre of the enormous Les Portes Du Soleil ski area, hosting more than 400 miles of pistes spanning 400 square miles and served by nearly 200 lifts. Yet Morzine has retained its alpine character, with slate manufacturing and cheese making managing to survive against the odds. With skiing in winter and mountain biking in the summer, Morzine is always a hive of activity.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Morzine
Central Morzine — The town runs along La Dranse de la Manche river, with parks and roads on either side until it hits the bridge linking the town to Avoriaz. In addition to the plentiful supply of snow sportswear shops and ski hire outlets, you’ll find a traditional church and an open air swimming pool.
Avoriaz — Above the market town is the modern resort of Avoriaz, with room for 14,000 visitors each night. The resort has been tastefully designed, with lots of traditional pine architecture, and it has some of the best snowboard facilities in Europe with three snowboard parks, a boarder cross and snow cross zones. Summer is the time to try paragliding, mountain biking and even golf.
Pied de la Plagne — A little way down from the centre of town is the more residential area of Le Pied de la Plagne, which has a boulangerie, pub and other facilities for visitors.
Things to See in Morzine
Morzine is surrounded by the peaks of Les Hauts Forts, Pointe de Vorlaz, Pointe de Nyon, Pointe d’Angolon and Les Gets. The mountains each have their own character, to be enjoyed from the comfort of a chalet sofa or with boots on, scrambling to the top. Whether you visit in summer or winter, Morzine has plenty to see with farmers’ fields and gorgeous pine forests that are fragrant in the warmth or majestic with a dusting of snow. Strolling through the village to the picturesque church and grand chalets is a magical experience.
Things to Do in Morzine
With the glories of Les Portes Du Soleil on hand, there’s no shortage of activities available in Morzine. In summer, mountain bikers dominate the area, making full use of the 22-strong summer lift network to climb through the forests and speed down the lanes and trails. Hiking is limited only by your feet and imagination – 500 miles of trails and paths lead you through valleys and along ridges to views you just can’t match. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are the popular choices but you can also sample Nordic skiing, handiskis, ice skating, husky sledging, skidoos and telemark.
