Avoriaz

Avoriaz

Avoriaz is a unique ski resort. Of all the purpose built ski resorts constructed in the 1960s Avoriaz is one of the better designed. Perched on the edge of a cliff there is something impressive and charming about its angled appearance and car free centre.

One of the enormous benefits of Avoriaz’s location is that virtually all of the accommodation is ski in ski out making Avoriaz one of the most convenient ski resorts in the Alps. Furthermore, Avoriaz is slap bang in the middle of the Portes du Soleil circuit that encompasses parts of France and Switzerland.

The skiing is excellent, the terrain parks second to none but, if you’re looking for luxury accommodation, then think again.

Pros

  • Great position on the Portes du Soleil with access to extensive and varied runs.
  • The best snow record in the Portes Du Soleil.
  • Accommodation right by the ski slopes.
  • A car free centre.

Cons

  • Some find Avoriaz ugly.
  • The Portes du Soleil is quite low for a French ski resort and the lower slopes can suffer from a lack of snow.
  • There isn’t much for non skiers to do.
  • The accommodation is mostly limited to cramped apartments.

The Skiing

Avoriaz is suited to all levels of skiers, but is particularly good for intermediates with 650km of piste to cruise. There’s a fair bit of off piste on offer, without taking into consideration the rest of the Portes Du Soleil, but Avoriaz is most well known for its parks.

With three parks, and sponsorship from the likes of Burton, Avoriaz knows how to build and maintain its parks.

Facts And Figures

  • Resort altitude 1800m
  • Highest lift 2300m
  • Portes du Soleil has 202 lifts and 650km of piste.
  • Avoriaz has 38 lifts and 150 km of piste.
  • All ski in ski out accommodation.

The Town And Apres Ski

If you’re looking for things to do off the slopes then you’d be better off in Morzine. There is a fitness centre with saunas and hot tubs and that’s about it. Pedestrians aren’t allowed on the chairlifts.

The main self service restaurants can get quite overcrowded during the high season. You are better off trying to to find some of the more authentic restaurants. Coquoz has good food and the hamlet of Les Lindarets has several good restaurants including La Cremaillere and Les Cretes de Zorre. Or try the Yeti on the slopes near Avoriaz for crepes.

Avoriaz’s après ski is lively, but there isn’t a huge amount of choice. The Yeti is a good spot for après ski, whilst in town Shooters is the place to go. For live music try The Place and for late night clubbing Le Yak is the place to head. All the clubs and bars are situated in the same area so its fairly easy to check them out.

Useful resources

www.avoriaz.com
www.avorinet.com
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avoriaz

Chalet Schuss
Special Offers