With numerous excellent ski resorts to choose from it can sometimes be hard to narrow down the ideal resort for your holiday. We are frequently asked for our recommendations and there is no doubt that Morzine is the perfect destination for many, and deservedly so. But is it the right one for you? Here are a few reasons why it might well be.
Location
Set in the middle of one of the most extensive ski regions in the Alps, Les Portes du Soleil, Morzine is one of the closest major French resorts to the gateway city of Geneva, making getting there incredibly easy. Hugging the Swiss border you will be able to access pistes in both France and Switzerland.
Skiing
Although there are lots of activities for summertime visitors, you are of course more likely to head out during the winter months for some skiing! As mentioned, Morzine is set within Les Portes du Soleil which has some slightly mind boggling statistics attached - runs up to seven miles long, 403 miles of tended trails and slopes, limitless off-piste terrain and 207 lifts of every shape, size and description. Not only is there an almost limitless choice of runs, but many are beginner friendly, a feature which draws novices and families to the resort every season. Half of Morzine's slopes are rated as beginner or intermediate, ensuring you are well catered for if skiing is something you only do infrequently. For those who are up for more of a challenge, then head to nearby Avoriaz.
Weather
Worried about taking a ski holiday only to find there is a lack of snow? Whilst nothing can be guaranteed, Morzine traditionally experiences higher-than-average snowfalls. Whilst the town itself (located at 1000m) can look a little green (especially early in the season), the sheer size of the Portes de Soleil area means you will have one of the best opportunities in the Alps for finding snow covered pistes.
Activities & Facilities
Morzine is a pretty town in its own right, making it a pleasurable place to stay. As you might expect from such a popular destination, you will not be disappointed by the range of activities & facilities on offer. There is a wide range of superb restaurants to dine at, après ski bars and nightclubs for those who want a lively evening, and a busy events calendar to keep your occupied when not on the slopes. But skiing is the lifeblood of the town - you will find well-stocked ski shops, ski schools (some of our favourites are New Generation & Easy2Ride) and a select few private ski instructors (we would recommend the fantastic Paddy Morris). Because of its popularity with families, Morzine is also well served with childcare facilities (Cheeky Monkeys and Jack Frosts are firm favourites) allowing you to leave the little ones in good hands whilst you head out to explore.
Oxford Ski Top Tip - There is significant demand for courses at ski schools, private skiing lessons & nannies. We would strongly recommend you let our concierge team know what your requirements are in this regard when you book your chalet. The sooner you let us know the sooner we can make the appropriate bookings on your behalf. If you are planning a trip during the school holidays then planning ahead (by a few months) is especially recommended.
Accommodation
You will find an extremely diverse range of accommodation on offer in Morzine. Increasingly, the new high end chalets being built in Morzine each season are pushing the boundaries in luxury, and at Oxford Ski we are lucky enough to be able to offer a selection of the best to our clients. Take a peak at the selection below and do not hesitate to contact our ski team to discuss these or any others should you require more information.
Built in 1790 (but very much modernised since!), The Manoir is a new luxury ski chalet on our Morzine portfolio. Home to the local Notary for two centuries, this stunning property has metre thick walls made from local stone, priceless mosaic floors, towering ceilings and huge rooms throughout. Described as 'the most beautiful building in Morzine', The Manoir is without doubt an eye catching property!
When it was renovated, the precious elements of this fabulous building were retained whilst layering the house in a sympathtic veneer of modern day essentials; walk-in showers, roll top baths, flat screen TVs and wifi at your pillow. Sleeping 10 guests across 5 en-suite bedrooms (three with extra beds in a kids corner) the house is large enough for a family trip with friends. There are two lounges, one of which is a more formal sitting area and one with TV, a beautiful dining room, several fireplaces and a hot tub with a stunning view.
Located in the very centre of Morzine, The Manoir is just two hundred metres from the nearest piste giving easy access to the Pleney lift station.
Colibri Uno is one of two outstanding new luxury ski apartments available in Morzine. Perfectly located, with convenient access to the Pleney piste (quite literally a stone's throw away!), this apartment features a contemporary design with a cool veneer of classic furniture, Italian walk in showers and ubiquitous flat screen TVs. And after a day on the slopes you can head to the balcony hot tub from which you can discreetly survey the après-ski revelry below.
Occupying the first floor of the building (and accessible via your own elevator), Colibri Uno features an open plan living area with an open fireplace, dining room and kitchen from which you can access the wraparound balcony. The bedrooms are situated at the rear of the building which allows for some undisturbed rest after a busy days skiing or a night out!
White Valley Lodge is unashamedly high-end and offers indulgent ski chalet accommodation for up to 10 adults and 2 children. Located in an idyllic, elevated and private location you will enjoy your stay in luxurious surroundings.
Upon arrival, guests will find a beautiful, contemporary wood fire and under floor heating in the living area, guaranteeing you stay snug as the snow falls outside. The reclaimed oak flooring, decadent designer chandeliers and sumptuous seating, create a chic setting from which to admire the stunning views over the Vallee de La Manche.
A ski holiday is as much about relaxing as it is skiing and the chalet's designer spa (located on a secluded elevated deck) allows you to restore your soul in the Steam & Sauna Barrel, refresh yourself in the cold dip plunge pool or relax in the fantastic oversized hot tub.
Each of the five cleverly designed bedrooms come with everything you need for a super comfy stay, from the deep pocket sprung beds with luxury toppers, rainmaker showers, flat screen TV and individual Sonos sound system. Offering unrivalled views, exclusive Bamford organic toiletries & GHD hairdryers.
Chalet Chardon, Morzine, France
Located in the old quarter of the village, Chalet Chardon presents an elegantly restrained exterior which gives way to a luxurious interior spread over 6 floors which make the most of the generous 650sqm. As you ascend the floors you will reach the open plan living areas and mezzanines at the top of the chalet. Wraparound balconies and terraces enable guests to enjoy views across Morzine village up to Avoriaz at the front, and to the beautiful peak of Nyon at the back.
Located just a 5 minute walk from the centre of Morzine you can easily reach the Pleney lift station. Don't fancy walking? Take advantage of the impressive chauffeur service which is staffed by drivers with a minimum of 5 years experience and who have all passed a winter conditions driving course, ensuring you arrive at your destination safely.
On the lower floors you will find the bar and billiard room, large cinema room with surround sound and large bed-like sofas, sauna and treatment room. On the entrance level there is a large boot room with boot warmers, a garage for self-drivers and gym area complete with weights, punch bag and a multi gym. In the chalet's south facing garden, guests will find the outdoor hot tub and BBQ.
The bedrooms are spread over two floors with the master suite occupying its own level and replete with two double beds, dressing area and en-suite bathroom with rain shower. The remaining four bedrooms include three Twin/Super kings and a bunk room with 2 sets of full size bunk beds, ideal for children or adults. Each bedroom is en suite with either a bath or shower.
If you would like more information on Morzine or chalets available for your next holiday then please contact our travel team on +44 1993 899 420 or click here for more contact details.
