As our summers continue to grow increasingly sweltering, the picturesque towns of Morzine and Avoriaz nestled in the French Alps emerge as veritable sanctuaries from the scorching heatwaves. Situated amidst breath-taking mountain vistas, these charming alpine retreats offer a refreshing escape from the sweltering temperatures plaguing lower altitudes. With their crisp, cool mountain air and lush green landscapes, Morzine and Avoriaz provide the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking respite from the oppressive summer heat. Whether it's hiking through verdant trails, cycling along scenic mountain routes, or simply unwinding amidst the serene beauty of nature, these idyllic mountain towns offer a welcome refuge for those seeking to beat the heat and bask in the tranquillity of the Alps.

Hiking and cycling trails weave through these picturesque landscapes, inviting visitors to explore their rustic beauty. Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the mountains, where well-marked trails lead to breath-taking viewpoints and serene lakes. From seasoned hikers or to leisurely strollers, Morzine and Avoriaz cater to all levels of fitness. For cyclists, the region boasts 16 mapped itineraries starting from Morzine, with 25 mountain passes within a 50-kilometer radius. The area's international reputation is further enhanced by hosting 22 stages of the Tour de France. So, whether chasing panoramic vistas on foot or pedalling through alpine splendour, Morzine and Avoriaz promise an unforgettable summer adventure. 

The Multi Pass Portes du Soleil provides visitors in Morzine and Avoriaz with unlimited access to more than 60 attractions and activities across the region's 12 resorts. They include swimming pools, tennis courts, climbing centres, mini golf courses, mountain lifts, cultural sites and more. The pass also provides holders with discounts on bike rentals, paragliding, archery, clay pigeon shooting, spa treatments, yoga and countless other activities. It is also valid on the tourist train and inter-resort buses. Passes cost €14pp / £12 per day or just €3 / £2.50pp per day for guests staying at participating accommodation providers. The Multi Pass Portes du Soleil is free for children under five. 

So, what's new across these well-known resorts? Read on to find out more…

ACTIVITES

Canyoning
Embark on an exhilarating adventure in Haute-Savoie with a descent into the renowned Nyon Canyon. Following a thrilling 40m abseil from the footbridge, adventurers can relish in a descent lasting approximately one hour and thirty minutes. Situated just 2km from the village center, the Nyon Canyon offers an array of excitement, boasting four jumps, three abseils, and three natural slides along its course. The adventure culminates with a breath-taking view of the magnificent Nyon waterfall, ensuring an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers. A three hour canyoning adventure is priced from €60 / £51 pp. For more information visit: www.guides-morzine.com/aventures/canyoning/

Jim Fishing
Jimmy Roos offers courses for beginners and amateur anglers, specialising in a range of techniques. Whether you're fishing the tumultuous waters of the Dranse, the large Lac de Montriond or the Lac des Mines d'Or, these courses are designed to introduce you to or improve your skills in the technique of your choice: river or lake fly fishing, or lure fishing. Courses are priced from €90 / £70 for 2 hours in the morning or evening. For more information visit: www.guidagepechehautesavoie.fr/

Pulse Activity
Experience the thrill of the mountains with the latest addition: the “who wants to win reblochons” aperitif quiz! Participants are invited to immerse themselves in a cosy mountain ambiance as the questions cascade across the screen for an hour of engaging fun. With each correct answer, they can indulge in sampling delightful local products and aperitifs, all while aiming to claim the coveted reblochons nestled atop the pyramid of prizes. It's an evening of knowledge, flavour, and the chance to triumph in an alpine-inspired quiz extravaganza! The  aperitif quiz run by pulse activity is priced from €30 / £26 pp, this includes one aperitif. For more information visit: www.pulseactivity.com/

Via Ferrata
Discover the thrill of Via Ferrata amidst the stunning landscapes of Haute Savoie, with the Bureau des Guides in the Portes du Soleil region. Among the array of routes available, the Via Ferrata in Avoriaz stands out as a highlight, offering an unforgettable adventure for all. Led by seasoned high-mountain guides, groups can embark on this exhilarating activity, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Designed to be both easy and enjoyable, Via Ferrata provides an opportunity to experience climbing without prior training or mountain expertise. The Avoriaz Via Ferrata boasts fully equipped routes featuring suspended walkways, ladders, ramps, and other elements, ensuring safety and excitement throughout the journey. Progress at your own pace, transitioning seamlessly from hiking to climbing, and immerse yourself in this thrilling new experience. An accompanied trip is priced from £38 / €45 pp. For more information visit: www.avoriaz.com/en/fiche/via-ferrata-activity-with-the-morzine-avoriaz-guides-office/  

 AvoKart
For thrill-seekers, hopping onto the AvoKart is a must. This three-wheeled vehicle boasts hydraulic brakes and a low centre of gravity, ensuring optimal road grip for an exhilarating ride. With hands firmly gripping the handlebars and comfortably settled into a bucket seat, adventurers can embark on a thrilling 3.5 km descent, tackling a 600 m altitude drop. Designed for individuals over 18 years old, standing at least 1.40m tall, and weighing under 110 kg, AvoKart promises an adrenaline-packed experience. Sessions are available daily throughout the summer from 11 am to 5:30 pm, with prices starting from €32 / £27 per person. For more information visit: www.avoriaz.com/en/fiche/avokart/

 ACCOMODATION

Montana Flats
The “Montana” flats, sleeping from 4 to 12 people, combine modern comfort with mountain charm. Ideally located in the heart of the village, just a 3-minute walk from the ski lifts (Pléney and Super Morzine), these luxurious residences offer a unique experience. With their elegant interiors and Scandi-chic decor, these pretty flats have all the comforts you need (fully-equipped kitchen, WIFI, HD TV with Netflix app, linen provided, etc.) for a relaxing stay with family or friends. Add to that a concierge service and bike cleaning facilities. The Montana Flats are priced from €1,200 / £1,027 per week based on four people sharing a flat. For more information visit: www.puremorzine.com/ 

MIL8 4-star hotel in Avoriaz
Whether guests stay at Mil8 as a couple, with family, or friends, they'll immerse themselves in the chic and sober ambiance that defines the hotel. Combining raw materials with comfortable furnishings, Mil8 exudes a sense of tranquillity, enhanced by abundant natural light throughout. From the cosy lounge with its inviting fireplace to the vibrant hotel bar, guests can savour the art of mountain living at Mil8. Its design, inspired by the atypical architecture of Avoriaz, offers breath-taking views of the village and its snow-capped peaks. Architect Hervé Marullaz's vision perfectly integrates Mil8 into its surroundings, echoing the unique codes of Avoriaz's architecture. The hotel's silver-grey larch facades harmonize with the traditional wooden balconies, blending seamlessly with the snowy slopes that envelop it. Nestled at the foot of the mountains and at the heart of the village, Mil8 provides an ideal base to explore all that Avoriaz and its surroundings have to offer, promising an unforgettable summer retreat. A seven night stay at Hotel Mil8 is priced from £579 pp based on two sharing a double room with breakfast included. For more information visit: www.hotelmil8.com/

THE ENVIRONMENT

Protecting the environment lies at the core of Morzine-Avoriaz's strategy, showcased through a range of sustainability initiatives. The Go Morzine-Avoriaz platform allows visitors to assess the CO2 emissions associated with different modes of travel, while the Alpin Express pass offers discounts in Morzine for travellers arriving by train. Furthermore, the pedestrianization of the town centre and the Biocyclette, which collects bio-waste for local establishments, contribute to the resorts' ecological approach. The Flocon Vert label, bestowed in September 2021, recognizes the resorts' dedication to promoting sustainable development.

This recognition stems from close collaboration between the municipality and the Morzine and Avoriaz 1800 Tourist offices, aiming to foster more environmentally-friendly tourism through innovative projects. In 2023, a new accolade was introduced for local businesses, with 11 Morzine-Avoriaz establishments being honoured.

Morzine offers free transport within the village throughout the summer, features numerous charging stations for bikes and electric cars, and boasts a pedestrianized section in the centre. Additionally, initiatives are implemented to address water shortages during the summer months. In Avoriaz, water from the pool is recycled to mitigate wastage and preserve water resources. The recycled water serves various purposes, including watering trees and greens at the golf course, maintaining the resort's green spaces and flowers, supplying water to the Bike Park's mountain bike washing stations, and operating the ventriglisse water slide.

For more information about Morzine-Avoriaz, please get in touch with Emma Berg on emmab@heavenpublicity.co.uk   

Please find a copy of the press pack for Morzine available to view / download here: https://www.calameo.com/read/00725051009a52a5abaa2

Please find a copy of the press pack for Avoriaz available to view / download here: https://www.calameo.com/avoriaz/read/0028278922f24c8e9d48c

For more information on Morzine, please visit: https://en.morzine-avoriaz.com/winter

For more information on Avoriaz, please visit: https://www.avoriaz.com/en/