There are some things you can only do in a ski resort. But what if you don’t have your ski on? What if you don't want to get on piste? What if sliding at high speed down a mountain isn’t your idea of holiday fun? Fear not, the Portes Du Soleil isn’t just for skiing. From the extreme to the relaxing, there is a plethora of off-piste activities to keep you occupied on your holiday.
Every week the local ESF ski schools in the ski resorts of Les Get, Morzine and Avoriaz organise torchlit descents. Watch hundreds of ski instructors ski down the mountain at night holding coloured flares lighting up the dark mountain as they descend. This is followed by an amazing fireworks display and there is always mulled wine to be enjoyed. It’s one of our off-piste favourites.
Aquariaz is an aquatic paradise set in the heart of Avoriaz offering a huge water park made up of a gentle flowing indoor river, a slidewinder (an aquatic halfpipe), a toddlers paddling pool & water playhouse, a large pool with natural climbing walls and a really sweet outdoor hot tub! There are also hundred of rare tropical plants inside making it feel like your own tropical (alpine) paradise.
Alpine culture is distinct and should be savoured and enjoyed. There is no better way than a trip to the Ferme de la Fruitière. Here you can watch local artisan cheese-makers produce our famous local cheeses using milk from the local cows and authentic and traditional cheese-making methods. After the tour you can buy local produce from their shop or book into their restaurant and enjoy a fondue!
In Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz you will find public ice rinks. Get your skate on and enjoy a skate or simply watch the kids enjoy themselves. If this doesn't fill your skating boots you could go and watch the local ice hockey team, The Penguins, and see what ice-skating should really look like!
Want to truly slow down and recuperate this winter? Then pass by Mountain Rehab and book into one of their many Yoga and Pilates classes. You could even book in for a massage or a session in the gym. That cheese fondue isn’t going to work off itself!
Not sure how to get to the mountains to enjoy all these exciting mountain pursuits? Book an airport transfer from Geneva to Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz now! With your airport transfer booked you can concentrate on the tough task of choosing which off-piste activities to try first.
Fly high above the valley at speeds of up to 100km p/h on a zip line. Simply head to the top of the Rochassons chair lift where, from the safety of your harness, you’ll have a birdseye view of the French Alps as you safely traverse the mountain on the 1200 meter zip wire.
New this winter is Fat Bike. It’s a mountain bike course but on snow. Created for all levels, from beginners to experts, you can enjoy the course on your special bike with its very own giant snow tyres. There are even snow jumps in the mountain bike terrain park. Max 6 people so pick your friends wisely!
It’s an oldie but a goodie - the ultimate in low stress, high altitude fun. Snow shoe your way down mountain paths, snow shoe your way through snowy forests, or just snow shoe yourself to your favourite mountain top restaurant and enjoy a glass of mulled wine.
One of the most incredible ways to see the mountains is by paragliding. There are many companies offering tandem flights with highly trained instructors. You’ll be driven to the top of the mountain for a safety debrief, then, after take-off, let your instructor guide you back down to resort while you hang out and enjoy the view.