Ski resorts
Morzine: skiing in a real Alpine town and where to stay
A living mountain town with markets, church spires and timber houses, and the Portes du Soleil on the doorstep. This is Morzine, the resort for those who want both slopes and town life.
Morzine is not a resort built for tourists. It is a real mountain town, with church spires, markets and families who have lived here for generations. In winter the streets fill with skiers, but the town keeps its own rhythm, with bakeries opening early and cafés where locals take their morning coffee.
Just outside lies the Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s largest linked ski areas. That makes Morzine a rare choice: you get the charm of an Alpine town and access to endless pistes.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You choose your own dates and room on the hotel page.
A town with soul
Morzine sits lower than many high-altitude resorts, and that gives it a mood all of its own. Timber houses line the streets, a river runs through town, and in the evening the windows glow warmly against the snow. You can buy local cheeses in the shops, dine in restaurants that have been here for generations and walk along the river after dark.
The town is popular with skiers from all over Europe, and the atmosphere is international and relaxed.
The slopes of the Portes du Soleil
From Morzine you can take the lift up towards Avoriaz and on into the Portes du Soleil, or ski the areas on the other side of the valley towards Les Gets. The forest around town offers shelter on days with poor visibility, making Morzine a good choice even when the weather is grey.
There are runs for every level, and the long descents through the trees are a favourite for many.
A day in Morzine
The day often starts with croissants from the bakery before you take the lift up the mountain. The morning can be spent skiing towards Avoriaz and on into Switzerland, while the afternoon is perfect for the long forest runs back towards town.
When evening comes, the town’s restaurants await with fondue, tartiflette and wine from Savoie. Afterwards you can enjoy a drink in one of the bars or take a stroll through the lit streets.
When is the best time to visit Morzine?
The season usually runs from December to April. January and February often bring good conditions, while March offers longer days. Because Morzine sits lower, it pays to use the higher areas of the Portes du Soleil late in the season. Half term and Easter are busy, so book early.
Skiing with children in Morzine
Morzine is a great choice for families who want more than just skiing. The town has ski schools, activities off the slopes and a calm pace. Choose a hotel close to the lifts to make getting to and from the pistes easy.
Getting to Morzine
The nearest major airport is Geneva, and from there it is a relatively short drive to Morzine. Transfers and buses also run during the season.
Where to stay in Morzine
Stay in the centre for town life and restaurants, or close to the lifts for a short walk to the slopes. Here are three hotels we would happily choose.
Le Petit Dru: friendly and central
A hotel with a bar and lounge, close to the ski area towards Avoriaz.
Book your stay: See rooms at Le Petit Dru
Hôtel Garance Morzine: in town
A hotel in Morzine a short walk from the town’s restaurants and shops.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hôtel Garance Morzine
Hameau des Prodains: by the lift to Avoriaz
A hotel with a free ski bus, close to the cable car to Avoriaz.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hameau des Prodains
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Avoriaz.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Morzine
Where should I stay in Morzine?
Le Petit Dru and Hôtel Garance are well placed for town life and restaurants, while Hameau des Prodains is close to the cable car to Avoriaz and includes a free ski bus.
Is Morzine linked to Avoriaz?
Yes, from Morzine you can take the lift towards Avoriaz and on into the Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s largest linked ski areas.
Is Morzine good in bad weather?
Yes, the forest around Morzine offers shelter and better visibility on grey days, and many runs wind through the trees.
How do you get to Morzine?
Fly to Geneva and drive or take a transfer to Morzine. The journey is relatively short, and buses run during the season.