Avoriaz

About Avoriaz

Avoriaz is one of the primary base area villages that make up the magical Portes du Soleil ski complex. Located in the Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s largest ski areas, Avoriaz provides access to over 370 miles of slopes, connecting 12 resorts between France and Switzerland. This larger-than-life skiable domain provides visitors with a little bit of everything. Experts will marvel at the off-piste terrain when the snowpack is stable, while beginners and intermediates are offered plenty of cruisers that run seemingly forever.

The 13 ski schools at Avoriaz Ski Resort are top-notch, with the ESF (Ecole du Ski Français) being a resort highlight, providing a wide range of lessons with over 180 instructors that speak English, French, Spanish and German, for experts down to 3-year-olds! The resort features 35 ski lifts, 51 slopes, four snow parks, and four snow cross tracks, providing a diverse and exciting skiing experience. Avoriaz is uniquely car-free, making it a safe and family-friendly destination where children can freely explore and enjoy dedicated beginner zones and fun areas like the Lil’Stash, a snow park designed for young skiers to learn freestyle in a safe environment.

Avoriaz offers a variety of options ranging from self-catered apartments to luxury hotels like MiL8 and Dromonts, and dining is equally varied, with numerous restaurants and bars serving everything from quick snacks to gourmet meals. Enjoy quality time with the family with options like the Aquariaz aquatic center, ice-skating rink and regular events and festivals guaranteeing entertainment for all ages. The resort's central location within the Portes du Soleil ski area allows easy exploration of the interconnected slopes spanning both France and Switzerland, with access from major transport hubs such as Geneva Airport and Annecy Station, at approximately 2 hours by car.

How to get to Avoriaz

Getting to Avoriaz in France is straightforward and offers a few different airport options, the most popular being Geneva International Airport (GVA) at only 55 miles away, for a commute time of about an hour 30 minutes, depending on factors such as weather and traffic. Chambéry Airport (CMF) is also a great option, with a shuttle service, "Ben’s Bus," offering shared transfers for around €50 to 60 EUR ($56 to 67 USD) per person. The airport is 79 miles away, so you can expect a transfer time of about two hours. Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) is 125 miles away, and offers a beautiful scenic route. Car rentals, bus services and private transfer options are also available from all three airports, offering flexibility depending on your travel preferences.

Avoriaz is a uniquely pedestrian-friendly resort where you can navigate on skis, toboggans, bicycles or by foot. In winter, sleighs and snow vehicles double as taxis, with sleighs operating during the day and snow vehicles at night. During the summer, a free shuttle service runs daily, making it easy to explore the resort.

Skiing in Avoriaz

Avoriaz is a skier’s dream in the heart of the French Alps, offering direct access to the legendary Portes du Soleil—one of the largest ski areas in the world with over 400 miles of slopes. Avoriaz alone delivers 75 miles of terrain, with 51 runs that cater to everyone from beginners to experts. Thanks to its high altitude and north-facing slopes, snow conditions here are consistently top-notch.

First-timers can find their groove on the gentle slopes of the Plateau area, while intermediate skiers will love cruising the blue and red runs like Proclou and Choucas, known for their wide-open spaces and stunning views. For advanced skiers, Avoriaz serves up some serious thrills, including the infamous Swiss Wall—one of the most challenging runs in Europe. Freestyle fans? You’re covered with five terrain parks that cater to all levels. Powder hounds will find plenty of off-piste action, too.

Beginner Skiing in Avoriaz

For children and beginners just getting on their ski feet, they can enjoy the beginner area, with tailored areas for novices to practice skiing and snowboarding in a safe yet fun environment. If Nordic skiing is of interest, check out Tracheurs Trail, a green trail starting from the Proclou sector. It is known for being perfect for beginners, with 14.29 miles of waymarked trails. Arare Ridge starts at Place Jean Vuarnet, or the bottom of the Prodains Express cable car, and consists of a series of trails that lead you through beautiful natural landscapes.

For kids and beginners just starting out, Avoriaz has the perfect spots to get you on your ski feet. The dedicated beginner area is tailored for novices, offering safe and fun environments to practice skiing and snowboarding. For those interested in Nordic skiing, the Tracheurs Trail is a must-try. This green trail, starting from the Proclou sector, spans 14.29 of waymarked paths ideal for beginners. Looking for scenic trails? Head over to Arare Ridge. Starting from Place Jean Vuarnet or the bottom of the Prodains Express cable car, this series of trails guides you through stunning natural landscapes.

Family vacations in Avoriaz

Avoriaz is the ultimate family vacation hotspot, packed with activities that’ll keep everyone smiling. For the little ones and beginners, Avoriaz offers specially tailored ski and snowboard lessons in safe, fun environments, including the popular Lil'Stash snow park. Into Nordic skiing? The Tracheurs Trail serves up 14.29 miles of beginner-friendly paths starting from the Proclou sector. Don't miss the Children's Village by ESF, where over 100 instructors dedicate their time to young skiers.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Avoriaz offers an array of activities for the entire family. Dive into tropical-themed swimming at the Aquariaz aquatic center, complete with pool and fitness classes. Glide around the outdoor skating rink, zoom down sledding runs, or join a guided snowshoeing tour. Looking for a unique adventure? Try dog sledding, snowmobiling, or even paragliding! Indoor options include climbing, squash, and catching a flick at the cinema. With so much to do, Avoriaz ensures an unforgettable family experience both on and off the slopes.