Skiing & Snowboarding in Avoriaz
Avoriaz has a varied choice of ski terrain surrounding it, with the majority of pistes classified as blue and red. This creates a great local area for beginner and intermediate skiers. Children and families are also well catered for with a 25 acre area dedicated to ski schools and learners.
The great thing about Avoriaz though is it is in a great position within the huge Portes du Soleil ski area. 600km of skiable area is literally right on the doorstep, as the resort sits directly on the main lift circuit. Avoriaz actually has lifts and pistes fanning out in all directions, with direct links to Chatel in one direction and Champery in Switzerland in the other.
Throughout the Portes du Soleil there are pistes to suit every level of skier, and an impressive amount of off-piste skiing to be found with minimal effort. Difficult black runs tend to be spread about the area – but there are some seriously steep pistes if you so desire. Snowboarders also benefit from 6 different park and freeride areas around Avoriaz designed just for them.
With its fast, modern lift system and high, snow-sure slopes Avoriaz is an ideal base for exploring the wider Portes du Soleil area. All abilities of skier and snowboarder will find something challenging for them, while parents can rest easy knowing their kids are protected in the designated learner areas.
Skiing & Snowboarding in Avoriaz FAQs
Is Avoriaz good for skiing & snowboarding?
Yes, Avoriaz ski resort is in an enviable position at the heart of the huge Portes du Soleil ski area – 12 French & Swiss ski resorts which are linked to make one of the largest cross-border ski areas in the world. Visitors to Avoriaz benefit from easy access to all areas of the Portes du Soleil and can ski or snowboard to their hearts content on 600kms of slopes. All ability levels are well-catered for on piste, as well as multiple snow parks and excellent facilities for learning or improving skiers & snowboarders.
Is Avoriaz a snow-sure resort?
Despite being lower in altitude than some other resorts such as Tignes, Avoriaz is known as the snowiest ski resort in France! Due to a unique microclimate created by its location between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, resorts in the Portes du Soleil get a better average snowfall than the much higher altitude resort of Zermatt. Water evaporating from the lake rises up as it approaches Mont Blanc at an elevation of 4,809m cooling it down and creating snowstorms. The nearby resort of Chatel is one of the biggest winners in this process, with the Portes du Soleil ski resorts, including Avoriaz, next in line for fresh snowfall.
What is the highest altitude ski slope in Avoriaz?
Avoriaz resort itself sits 1800m above sea level (roughly 800m above the neighbouring resort of Morzine). The highest point within the Avoriaz ski area is Le Hauts Forts which reaches an elevation approximately 2,466m above sea level.
What is the total length of skiable slopes in Avoriaz?
The Portes du Soleil ski area (which Avoriaz sits in the middle of) has 600kms of accessible slopes made up of 308 slopes for all abilities.
Does Avoriaz have a snowpark?
Yes, the Portes du Soleil ski area actually has 30 ‘equipped areas’ made up of snowparks, snowcross courses and specific beginners slopes. Avoriaz itself has 4 snowparks within its resort-specific slopes, including the highly regarded Stash park. This eco friendly freeride and freestyle area was conceptualised by Burton Snowboards founder Jake Burton and has features made from dead wood collected from local forests. A secondary Lil’Stash has also been created specifically for younger shredders and those getting their first taste of freestyle skiing & snowboarding.
What is the total number of ski lifts in Avoriaz?
209 ski lifts can be found in the Portes du Soleil ski area surrounding Avoriaz resort.
Is Avoriaz best for beginner, intermediate or advanced skiers & snowboarders?
Avoriaz and the extended Portes du Soleil ski area has a wide variety of green, blue, red & black ski runs for all abilities. Beginners and families are particularly well catered for here as it is easy to access gentle green runs directly from the town. Intermediates will find plenty to do with 600km of trails accessible from Avoriaz, while advanced skiers & snowboarders may have to venture slightly further out from the town, but will find plenty of challenging runs including the intimidating un-pisted ‘Swiss Wall’ run.
What is regarded as the best ski run in Avoriaz?
A subjective subject dependent on what your preferred terrain is; Avoriaz has several contenders for the ‘best’ ski run. The hardest ski slope is generally regarded as the one with the steepest slope which is Le Mur Suisse or ‘The Wall’ This un-pisted 400 metre long slope has an inclination of 76% and will challenge even the most experienced skiers. The longest ski run is Grand Paradis with a 7km descent providing fantastic downhill skiing & snowboarding, while De Belette is a green-rated slope which takes winds through the trees and allows skiers & snowboarders to fully embrace the beautiful scenery and nature.
When does the ski season start and finish in Avoriaz?
The Avoriaz ski area tends to open in mid December and close mid to late April dependent on snow conditions. The ski season in Avoriaz is a little shorter than resorts with higher altitude slopes like Val d’Isere or Val Thorens.
What is the lift pass price for Avoriaz ski resort?
During the peak winter 23/24 season the adult lift pass price for the Portes du Soleil area with full access to 600kms of ski slopes was 305€ for 5 days. For access only to the Avoriaz specific slopes the adult price was 54€ per day. Prices are lower for children, youths & seniors; And it is possible to gain further discounts by booking early, via the internet, or for early / late season weeks. The official Skipass Avoriaz has further info.
Are there good ski schools and lessons for beginners in Avoriaz?
Avoriaz ski resort has a large number of fantastic ski schools and instructors for group and private lessons. As well as the French ESF services there are a great many independent ski schools in Avoriaz providing lessons for all levels of skiers & snowboarders. It is also possible to hire guides for off-piste touring.
What is the off-piste skiing & snowboarding like in Avoriaz?
Avoriaz has a high number of off-piste or ‘nature’ sections which can be accessed when the conditions allow. Areas around Fornet are relatively easily accessed, while La Combette allows skiers & snowboarders to get in amongst the trees. Vallee de la Manche is an extensive off-piste area where you can really get away from the crowds. Off-piste skiing can be risky and it is best to have the correct equipment and go with someone who knows the area. Avoriaz off-piste guides can be hired to make the most of this incredible area.
