Avoriaz

Avoriaz is one of the fourteen resorts of the Portes du Soleil, a huge ski domain in the Savoy Alps on the French-Swiss border that ranks among the largest ski areas in the world. Of all the Portes du Soleil villages, Avoriaz sits highest, at 1,800 m, which gives it very good snow conditions. Another advantage is the closeness of the Swiss border, as the Swiss resorts are directly linked to the pistes on the French side. Avoriaz is a modern resort with two extensive ski areas (Les Hauts Forts and Les Lindarets), suited to every ability level and style of skiing. The black pistes will satisfy those with a competitive streak, while the many wide skiways will please more leisurely skiers. For years Avoriaz has also been a true mecca for snowboarders. The draw includes excellent off-piste terrain and two snow parks: d’Arare for advanced riders and the Snowpark de la Chapelle, where even complete beginners will have a great time. Access to the slopes is very convenient: in most cases you can ski right up to your hotel door. The resort has a decidedly sporty character. Besides skiing and other snow sports, Avoriaz tempts visitors with an exceptionally wide range of other activities that fit easily into a winter holiday (paragliding, balloon flights, ice diving and a large choice of indoor sports). Avoriaz is one of many French ski villages built "from scratch" in the 1960s and 1970s, where function and modernity were meant to be the guiding principles of the architecture. The result is a landscape of apartment blocks set against high mountain scenery. The centre is a car-free zone. Restaurants, both in the village itself and on the slopes, offer varied menus, and the number of bars, clubs and discos can satisfy the most demanding. It has to be said, however, that prices are definitely not low. This applies to all services in this resort, which is very attractive from a skiing point of view and can get very crowded, especially in high season.