Welcome to Winter 2026/27!
The countdown to another ski season in Avoriaz is almost over! The resort is preparing to welcome skiers and snowboarders back to the mountains, with the lifts scheduled to open on Friday 11 December. The wider Portes du Soleil ski area will follow as neighbouring resorts open throughout the month, bringing more opportunities to explore the slopes on both sides of the French-Swiss border.
This winter is a particularly special one for Avoriaz, as the resort prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2027. There are also some exciting developments and activities to look forward to, including improvements around the snowparks and new ways to explore the mountains.
Whether you're a regular visitor or planning your first trip to Avoriaz, we'll be bringing you weekly updates on snowfall, piste conditions, weather forecasts and everything happening around the resort. From the first turns of December to the final spring skiing days in April, we'll be keeping you informed about what to expect on the mountain.
Snow and Weather Summary
The beginning of December is always an exciting time in the Alps, with everyone keeping a close eye on snowfall and temperatures ahead of opening weekend. At around 1,800 metres above sea level, Avoriaz has an advantage over many lower-altitude resorts, although the amount of skiing available initially will depend on snow cover, temperatures and the work of the piste preparation teams.
Higher slopes around Arare and Fornet generally offer a better chance of retaining colder snow early in the season, while lower routes towards Morzine and the surrounding valleys may require additional snowfall or snowmaking before they can open.
Avoriaz is scheduled to open on 11 December, with the wider Portes du Soleil ski area beginning its main season on 19 December. Some neighbouring sectors, including parts of Châtel, are also preparing to open earlier, subject to conditions. Morzine's Pléney and Nyon sectors are scheduled to follow on 19 December.
Even once the lifts begin operating, it's worth checking which pistes and connections are available rather than assuming the whole Portes du Soleil is open from day one. Cross-border routes and links between villages can be particularly dependent on conditions during the opening weeks.
We'll be following the latest snow depths, fresh snowfall and weather forecasts throughout December, with regular updates as the season gets underway.
What's New in Avoriaz This Winter?
There's plenty to discover in Avoriaz this winter, from improvements around the mountain to new opportunities for exploring beyond the usual pistes.
One of the developments to look out for is the continuing work around the La Chapelle snowpark. The area has been evolving into more than just a place for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, with dedicated spaces for spectators to relax and watch the action. Further improvements to its social areas have been proposed, although the final facilities and opening arrangements are still awaiting confirmation for winter 2026/27.
Over in the Arare sector, skiers can also make use of the panoramic relaxation and picnic facilities highlighted on the ski area's recent maps. The mountain area includes a viewpoint, picnic space and rooftop-style viewing area, providing somewhere to stop and admire the scenery between runs. These facilities were already advertised before this winter, rather than being entirely new for 2026/27.
There are also additional benefits for visitors purchasing eligible Portes du Soleil ski passes this season. The resort's ski-pass operator has announced expanded partner-resort arrangements for winter 2026/27, including new access benefits for Chamonix and Montgenèvre. These give qualifying pass holders more opportunities to discover other Alpine ski areas, although the number of days and eligibility conditions vary.
Another milestone on the horizon is Avoriaz's 60th anniversary. The resort first welcomed visitors in 1967, introducing its distinctive car-free design and architecture that blends into the surrounding mountains. An anniversary programme is being prepared for 2027, celebrating the resort's history, its pioneering approach to mountain holidays and its close connections with skiing and snowboarding culture.
Outlook & What's On
The first few weeks of December will be all about getting the ski season underway. Avoriaz is scheduled to open on 11 December, with additional terrain becoming available across the Portes du Soleil as neighbouring areas begin operating. The weather over the coming weeks will play an important part in how quickly the available skiing expands, particularly on lower slopes and connections between resorts.
Opening weekend promises a lively atmosphere with the return of Rock On Snow from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 December. The annual event brings together skiing, snowboarding and music, with more than 80 brands represented and opportunities to test some of the latest equipment. Free ski and snowboard testing is scheduled between 09:00 and 16:00, making it a great opportunity for anyone interested in trying something new on the mountain.
The festive season will also bring plenty of entertainment to Avoriaz's snow-covered streets. On Thursday 24 December, the resort is planning its traditional Christmas celebrations, including a torchlit descent at 18:15 followed by a festive show at 19:00. The evening will offer families a chance to enjoy the atmosphere as Christmas arrives in the mountains.
New Year's Eve promises another lively celebration, with three different music areas across the resort from 21:30 and fireworks planned at midnight. The festivities will continue into the early hours of 1 January, providing a memorable way to welcome 2027.
Getting Ready for the Ski Season
If you're heading to Avoriaz in the coming weeks, now is a good time to get the final details of your trip organised. Whether it's arranging airport transfers, booking ski hire and lessons, or reserving a table at your favourite mountain restaurant, a little preparation can make those first days on the slopes much easier.
Avoriaz is a completely pedestrianised resort, with car parks at the entrance and horse-drawn sleighs and snowcats providing transport around the village during winter. If you're arriving with luggage, it's worth arranging parking or onward transport before travelling.
For anyone staying in Morzine and planning to ski in Avoriaz during the opening weeks, check the operating times of the Prodains Express and Super-Morzine lifts, as access arrangements may differ from the main winter timetable.
Snow Takeaway
The wait is nearly over, and Avoriaz is getting ready for another winter in the Portes du Soleil. With the slopes scheduled to open on 11 December, Rock On Snow returning for opening weekend and the resort preparing for its 60th anniversary in 2027, there's plenty to look forward to.
As always at this time of year, the higher slopes offer the best chance of reliable early-season skiing, with further terrain opening as snow conditions permit. The staggered opening dates across the Portes du Soleil make it especially important to check which areas and cross-border connections are operating before heading out.
We'll be back with our regular weekly reports to follow the snow and help you make the most of the winter ahead.
Scroll down to see live forecasts, lift status, links to webcams and above for real time photos from Avoriaz. We will be updating this snow report page every Wednesday so check back in with us next week to see how the pistes are doing and what you can expect from the snow forecast for the next seven days.
