Approaching the high altitude resort of Avoriaz for the first time is an unrivalled alpine experience. Firstly, there is nothing to compare to the cutting edge design of the ski village. Avoriaz apartments are clad in warm, earthy cedar shingles wrap themselves dramatically around the cliffs high above Morzine in a successful re-interpretation of the alpine aesthetic. The resort is an eagle’s nest of distinction. And secondly, if you are discerning enough to visit Avoriaz the transfer from Geneva is a speedy hour and a half, guaranteed to end in charming low-tech resolution. For Avoriaz is a car free destination and the final leg of the short schlep to your ski in, ski out Avoriaz accommodation will be made by sledge. Horse-drawn or manpowered - take your pick. So, wherever you choose to stay in this unique ski village you will arrive daisy fresh to take on the vast 650km of terrain that comprises the Portes des Soliel.
To it’s great credit, Avoriaz may be a little different but has all that you would expect; 8 meters of light, fluffy – stick your tongue out and feel it – snow certainty, speedy lifts, endless skiing for all abilities, terrain parks, dedicated kid’s zones, late clubs for après ski endurance events and reasonably priced restaurants –not something all resorts can claim with a straight face. And consequently it boasts a loyal following of skiers and snowboarders who would not carve their freshies anywhere else.
Such is the pride taken in the resort that in 2003, the French Minister of Culture declared Avoriaz one of France’s great heritage achievements of the 20th Century. Not bad for a humble ski resort.
A good example of the Avoriaz’s distinctive style is the Residence Saskia Falaise. This series of Avoriaz self-catering apartments effortlessly nails the quality budget accommodation niche throwing in incredible views and proximity to the slopes with characteristic Gallic nonchalance. But, a word to the wise, do bear that cliff in mind and remember to stop when swooshing back to your ski in/ski out accommodation. Unless of course you intend to ski down Main Street – remember no cars - to check out where to eat that evening, stop at the supermarket or nip into Seasonaire’s choice, Chapka for a post-piste swiftie. At Residence Saskia Falaise you are but a ski-boot shuffle from the action.
At the upper end of the scale, though far from outrageous, is Residence L’Amara, new for 2011/12. The destination of choice for those who favour generously proportioned ski in/ski out self-catering splendour, steam rooms, pools, spa pampering and general luxury. L’Amara is the place to enjoy immersion in a bubbling hot tub on the elevated deck whilst contemplating the day’s skiing and boarding prowess. For matching glam dining, step out Table du Marche, celebrity French chef Christopher Le Roy’s signature restaurant, an elegant fondue free zone at the Hotel Les Dromont.
All that is left to say on Avoriaz is this; don’t be too devastated when it’s time to leave – it will still be there next year.
To it’s great credit, Avoriaz may be a little different but has all that you would expect; 8 meters of light, fluffy – stick your tongue out and feel it – snow certainty, speedy lifts, endless skiing for all abilities, terrain parks, dedicated kid’s zones, late clubs for après ski endurance events and reasonably priced restaurants –not something all resorts can claim with a straight face. And consequently it boasts a loyal following of skiers and snowboarders who would not carve their freshies anywhere else.
Such is the pride taken in the resort that in 2003, the French Minister of Culture declared Avoriaz one of France’s great heritage achievements of the 20th Century. Not bad for a humble ski resort.
A good example of the Avoriaz’s distinctive style is the Residence Saskia Falaise. This series of Avoriaz self-catering apartments effortlessly nails the quality budget accommodation niche throwing in incredible views and proximity to the slopes with characteristic Gallic nonchalance. But, a word to the wise, do bear that cliff in mind and remember to stop when swooshing back to your ski in/ski out accommodation. Unless of course you intend to ski down Main Street – remember no cars - to check out where to eat that evening, stop at the supermarket or nip into Seasonaire’s choice, Chapka for a post-piste swiftie. At Residence Saskia Falaise you are but a ski-boot shuffle from the action.
At the upper end of the scale, though far from outrageous, is Residence L’Amara, new for 2011/12. The destination of choice for those who favour generously proportioned ski in/ski out self-catering splendour, steam rooms, pools, spa pampering and general luxury. L’Amara is the place to enjoy immersion in a bubbling hot tub on the elevated deck whilst contemplating the day’s skiing and boarding prowess. For matching glam dining, step out Table du Marche, celebrity French chef Christopher Le Roy’s signature restaurant, an elegant fondue free zone at the Hotel Les Dromont.
All that is left to say on Avoriaz is this; don’t be too devastated when it’s time to leave – it will still be there next year.
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