Morzine-Avoriaz Ski Resort

Morzine and Avoriaz are neighbouring, but very different ski resorts in the Portes du Soleil area, one of the world's largest ski regions.

Both resorts have grown in international significance, and in dimensions, with about 20,000 tourist beds currently available in each. However they are very different in style and heritage.

Morzine is one of the original ski resorts in the Alps, with skiers having visited here for more than 80 years. It is located at quite a low altitude but built in a traditional chalet style.

Avoriaz, stylishly purpose-built in the late 1960s, stands 800m (2,625ft) above Morzine. It was built to a futuristic design although using traditional wood and sloping roofs in order to blend in to the surrounding environment. Avoriaz is also France's first and only car-free resort and has recently been emphasising its environmental credentials.

The main lift between the two resorts was upgraded recently, greatly improving the speed and capacity of the connection, and Avoriaz has added a large 3,000 sq m (9,843 sq ft) thermal swimming and leisure complex, ‘Aquariaz’ at the base of the slopes.