Climbing in Avoriaz

Like most of the Alps, Avoriaz is a great place to go rock climbing. Experienced climbers can tackle the mountainside rock and enjoy the fantastic views (just make sure you have all the right gear and safety equipment), while there are a number of adventure companies and mountain guides who can take you out on your first climb and show you the 'ropes'. Some of the most popular rock climbing areas include the Rocher de la Chaux, which is perfect for beginners, near Saint Jean d'Aulps, the Falaise des Ardoisières near Morzine or the Terres Maudites, where the famous Morzinoise route is, which has long but moderately easy climbs.

Caving and pot-holing

Caving or pot-holing (also known as Speleology) is an exciting way to explore the mountain caves and their intricate tunnel systems which have been naturally formed by the rock over time. Most of the caves will be absorbed in darkness so a hard hat and head torch are worn as well as appropriate clothing. If you are caving with an adventure company then they will provide all the safety equipment and tools necessary, as well as a professional guide. There are multiple caves to explore in the Avoriaz area, as well as in Megevette and La Balme. Children must be over seven years old to participate.

For the true mountain enthusiast, why not scale an amazing frozen waterfall or glacier? This is a fantastic sport, not just for experienced mountaineers. The frozen columns of the Gachette, Dame du Lac and Brochaux waterfalls are stunning locations to try your hand at ice climbing. The ice climbing season peaks between December and March. You can either go with a guide from an adventure company in Avoriaz or you'll need to know what you are doing and bring your own kit.

The summits and ridges of the Chablais region might not be as famous as their neighbours in the Mont Blanc area but the fact that they are more gentle makes them fantastic terrain to discover ski mountaineering. The quantity of snow in winter usually requires using touring skis for the approach hike, which means ending the outing by a really enjoyable downhill run.
Local mountain guides offer formulas for all skill levels, from beginner mountaineers to expert climbers.

If climbing up sheer rock on the end of a piece of rope sounds a bit scary, then Via Ferrata climbing offers an element of security that still allows beginners to enjoy the achievement of having scaled a mountain. This form of climbing was invented by Italian soldiers in the Dolomites who used it to enable them to scale vertiginous faces easily and quickly. Following marked routes through the mountains, you are helped along by steps, bridges and ladders whilst being roped up for extra safety. 

The main Via Ferrata site in Avoriaz is the Saix du Tour, near Avoriaz. It is 600m in length and affords some beautiful views over the valley. It features footbridges, monkey bridges and ladders, and should take around two to two and a half hours to complete. It is accessible from May to October if there is no snow. Suitable for adults and children over the age of eight.

You can hire all the essential equipment, including helmet, harness and "cows tails" at most sports shops in resort If you're a beginner, you should also book a mountain guide or instructor.