Discover Avoriaz

A Pioneer in Sustainable Tourism

Avoriaz is world-renowned for its visionary design, revolutionary for its time. Spearheaded by ski champion Jean Vuarnet, developer Gérard Brémond, and a trio of young architects, the resort was designed to blend into its natural surroundings, prioritising pedestrian mobility and energy efficiency. Perched on a sun-drenched plateau overlooking the charming Morzine valley, its ski slopes wind through the picturesque Chablais region along the French-Swiss border. Sharing its story and ski area with the Swiss Dents du Midi region—with resorts like Champéry and Morgins—Avoriaz continues to stand as a symbol of innovation and sustainability.

  1. A 100% pedestrian resort

Avoriaz immediately charms visitors with its car-free design. Vehicles are left in designated parking areas at the resort's entrance, while guests explore its streets—doubled as ski slopes—on foot, by sled, or even in horse-drawn carriages. This unique setting is free from urban noise and engine pollution, creating a safe, tranquil environment perfect for families. All accommodations, from chalets to residences, are ski-in/ski-out or within 50 meters of the nearest street-slope, providing easy access to the chairlifts.

  2. Distinctive architecture

Avoriaz’s architecture is unlike any other, designed to blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. Its staggered structures mimic the terrain's contours, with steep roofs holding snow like a natural camouflage. Clad in cedar shingles that weather to hues of amber and russet, these buildings embody a “mimetic architecture” that earned the resort its nickname.

  3. A resort committed to sustainability

Avoriaz has embraced a path of sustainable development, a natural extension of its history. Prioritizing carbon emission reductions, resource conservation, and eco-friendly design for most leisure facilities, the resort places environmental responsibility at the core of its tourism strategy. Avoriaz proudly holds the "Flocon Vert" certification, a label recognizing resorts dedicated to environmental sustainability.

Les Portes du Soleil: A Vast Ski Playground

Les Portes du Soleil is your passport for an international skiing experience, with 600 km of slopes straddling the peaks between France and Switzerland. Its remarkable size provides panoramic, skis-on views that rank among the most beautiful photo spots in the Alps: the Mont-Blanc range reveals itself from Ranfolly (Les Gets), the tip of Lake Geneva surprises from the slopes of Torgon, and the Dents du Midi are perfectly framed by the red arch of the Grand Tour of Switzerland at the summit of La Foilleuse.

The ski area caters to skiers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers. Thrill-seekers can tackle legendary runs like the World Cup slope in Avoriaz or the Swiss Wall in Champéry. Families will enjoy fun skiing through the forests near Lindarêts or Châtel, while food lovers can cross to the Swiss side to savour Valaisan specialties, like tartines paired with a glass of Fendant. There’s nothing quite like skiing between two countries, two cultures, two accents, and two culinary traditions!

Les Portes du Soleil in Numbers:

• 2 countries
• 12 resorts
• 400 km²
• 208 ski lifts
• 307 slopes
• 30 snowparks, ski-cross zones, and children’s areas

Winter or Summer: Enjoy Both Seasons in Avoriaz!

In winter and summer alike, Avoriaz is brimming with charm and a wide array of activities for the whole family. Start with Aquariaz, a stunning tropical-themed aquatic centre designed for both relaxation and fun. Add to that a fitness and wellness centre (Altiforme), luxurious spas (at Hôtel Mil'8, Eliospa, and Deep Nature Spa), a golf course, and countless outdoor sports to enjoy the fresh mountain air all year round.

Events to Electrify Your Holiday in Avoriaz

A true open-air stage, Avoriaz is renowned for its vibrant events that inject life into the resort throughout the seasons. Weekends blending skiing and music, like Rock on Snow to kick off the winter season, or the Snowboxx snowboard contests, are just the beginning. The Rock the Pistes festival also brings international artists to play their hits on the slopes of Les Portes du Soleil ski area. And let's not forget the magical performances held in the centre of the resort for Christmas, New Year, or Carnival. The festive atmosphere is guaranteed to electrify every visitor to the resort!