At Oxford Ski Company, we pride ourselves on having first-hand experience and knowledge of the chalets, hotels, and resorts we feature. We are a close-knit team who are dedicated and passionate about what we do.
Within this series, we’re highlighting each of our specialists across the team as we dive into their knowledge of some of our most popular resorts across the world.
I first took to the slopes from the young age of three, from that first encounter, I caught the bug and now take any opportunity to return to the slopes year on year.
I have skied all over the world, but have particularly fallen in love with la Plagne and Avoriaz.
The Portes du Soleil is an expansive ski area that really does have some of the best runs in all The Alps. During the peak week rush, to avoid the queues in the Avoriaz bowl, I like to take the Crôt run down to the TSD Grandes Combes lift. From there you have excellent access to the d’Arare and Fornet area and can even ski all the way over into les Linderats and Pointe de Mossette using the Cubore lift. When staying in Avoriaz, make sure you get the full Portes du Soleil ski pass, you can enjoy lovely, cruisey and wide slopes in Switzerland with amazing views, and then be back in France in time for an apéritif!
Key Resort Facts for Avoriaz
Domaine: Portes du Soleil
Resort Height: 1800m
Skiing Elevation: 950-2300m
Pistes: 650km
Green: 13%
Blue: 40%
Red: 37%
Black: 10%
Getting to Avoriaz
Closest and Recommended Airport: Geneva (GVA)
Transfer Time: 1h 40m / 100km
Our Portfolio
Avoriaz & Châtel chalets in our portfolio: 14
Avoriaz hotel in our portfolio: Hotel Mil8
Where to Eat
La Reserve is a perfect choice for a world class dining in the sun. Located in the heart of Avoriaz, the Michelin-Starred restaurant should be a staple of anyone looking to see what the Portes du Soleil has to offer.
The Cookie Café is a staple for any Avoriaz checklist. Located at 2277m you have amazing views of the Dents de Midi.
Le Chaudron located in the little ‘Goat village’ below les Linderats, this is an excellent choice for those looking for a lunch spot just off the beaten track. After lunch it’s a short ski down to Ardent where the gondola will whisk you back up to les Linderats.
My Favourite Places to Stay
Chalet Beluga must be one of the best located properties in the Portes du Soleil. It sits right on the Bouelvard piste, with views looking down the valley to Morzine and an Indoor pool to enjoy after a long day on the slopes.
Chalet Ossetra is another great option for those looking for convenience, without compromising on luxury. The views down the valley and the child friendly access make it an excellent choice (I couldn’t think of a better place to enjoy a glass of champagne).
Although based in the nearby resort of Châtel, I love Ferme du Rys. It oozes luxury, with unique touches, like the swing overlooking the mountain and the open plan living area. With only a two-minute drive to the slopes and excellent access to the Portes du Soleil, you simply can’t go wrong.
The Best Après Spots
Happy Hour in Ardent is the place to be on a wednesday evening. It hosts large parties underneath the canvased roof and with the BSU link down to Morzine it is a perfect spot for an evening soirée.
La Folie Douce is an icon of après, and its Avoriaz location is no exception. Located at the top of Avoriaz, it is the perfect place to enjoy an evening’s après, where afterwards you can take the central nursery slope back down toward the centre of the town or the Boulevard run to your chalet.
My Top Tips for Ski Trips
Before leaving your accommodation, double check that you have your lift pass, there is nothing worse than getting to the lift and realising you have forgotten it!
I always advise to plan your day, especially during peak times. A lunchtime reservation gives you something to look forward to, plus, if anyone gets lost, it means they know when and where best to go to re-group.