Morzine

History and culture in Morzine

Morzine was originally a small farming and mining town. The first lift to be installed here was the Pléney cable car in 1934 and since then the town has grown into a full on resort with all the trappings you'd expect, whilst still retaining its traditional French charm. 

The town lies on two sides of the Dranse river that flows through the bottom of the valley, the sides of which are adorned with traditionally styled wooden chalets with slate roofs. There are very few buildings over four floors in Morzine and as this helps the town keep it's heart without becoming a concrete covered resort.  Learn more about the history of Morzine.

See our History Guide

Sights & Attractions in Morzine

Morzine offers a mix of local culture, history and traditions to discover during your stay. You can join a free guided tour of the old town, visit cheese cellars to learn how classic Savoyard cheeses are made or take a walk through the dramatic Gorges du Pont du Diable. On a rainy day or if you’re taking a break from the slopes, head to one of the nearby museums or visit Morzine’s slate workshop to find out more about the village’s heritage.

Dining in Morzine

In Morzine, there’s a little something for every appetite, whether you’re here in the middle of winter or enjoying the summer sun. Around town, you’ll find everything from cosy cafés to more upmarket restaurants, all serving up the hearty alpine food you’d expect. Think creamy tartiflette, bubbling cheese fondue, and plates of locally sourced meat and seasonal vegetables, perfect after a morning on the slopes or a day exploring the trails.

For a relaxed lunch with a view, head up the mountain where terraces overlook the surrounding peaks. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a well-priced “plat du jour” or a generous mountain lunch while soaking up the scenery. And if you’re visiting in winter, the après-ski scene in Morzine is lively and inviting. Whether you fancy a refreshing drink, a small snack, or just a place to unwind with friends, you’ll find plenty of welcoming spots in town and around the lifts.

In the warmer months, Morzine comes into its own. Outdoor terraces and cafés in town and on the mountain make it a joy to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner, with menus highlighting the very best local produce. And of course, no visit is complete without popping into a bakery for a freshly baked croissant, a delicate pastry, or a slice of cake – perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a sweet pause after wandering the streets.

With a mix of traditional alpine dishes, international influences, and casual spots for pizzas, crepes, or light bites, dining in Morzine is all about variety and flexibility. Whether you’re after a hearty meal, a light lunch, or just a coffee and cake while you watch the world go by, you’ll find a friendly table waiting for you somewhere in town or up on the mountain.

Events in Morzine

Morzine isn't just about stunning slopes and breathtaking views; it's a town that knows how to throw a party. Whether you're here to ski, bike, or simply soak in the alpine charm, there's always an event to make your stay even more memorable.

Winter

Come winter, Morzine transforms into a snowy playground. Skiing and snowboarding competitions light up the slopes, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. For those seeking a unique challenge, the Spartan Winter Trail offers a thrilling obstacle course across snow-covered terrains. And let's not forget the festive season – from mid-December, the town buzzes with Christmas markets, parades, and the much-anticipated arrival of Father Christmas, making it feel like something straight out of a fairytale.

Summer

When the snow melts, Morzine doesn't slow down. The summer calendar is packed with events that cater to all interests. The Pass’Portes du Soleil MTB is a highlight for mountain biking aficionados, offering epic routes between France and Switzerland. If you're into trail running, the Ultra Trail Morzine-Avoriaz presents a series of races set against the backdrop of stunning alpine scenery. For motorsport fans, the Mont-Blanc Rally brings high-speed action to the region. And of course, the Tour de France Women showcases world-class cycling talent, with Morzine often featuring as a key stage.

Year round

Beyond the main events, Morzine's charm lies in its local traditions. Every Wednesday morning, the town hosts a bustling market by the Carrefour and post office, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's the perfect spot to mingle with locals and pick up a few souvenirs. You'll find monthly craft and vintage style markets regularly throughout the seasons too.

Whether you're visiting in winter or summer, Morzine's event calendar is always full of activities. From live music and cultural festivals to sports competitions, kids activities and local gatherings, there's always something happening to enhance your alpine experience.

Things to do in Morzine

Morzine isn’t just a ski resort; it’s an adventure playground all year round. In winter, when the lifts stop turning, you can still keep busy with activities like husky sledding, snowshoeing, or ice skating. If you're after something more thrilling, why not try snowmobiling or paragliding?

When the snow melts, the mountains come alive with even more to explore. Hiking trails wind through the forests and past alpine lakes, offering stunning views at every turn. For those seeking a bit more excitement, mountain biking is a must, with the Portes du Soleil offering a vast network of trails.

If the weather turns, there’s plenty to keep you and the family busy indoors too – take a dip in the swimming pool, watch a game of ice hockey, hit the gym, relax in a spa, or catch a movie at the local cinema.

If you're in the mood to relax, take a dip in the local swimming pool, enjoy a leisurely lunch in the sunshine, or visit the weekly market to pick up some local treats. Whether you're here for the slopes or the summer vibes, Morzine has something for everyone.

See our Activity Guide

Cycling in Morzine

Morzine is great for cyclists. 15 mapped itineraries start from here, as well as 25 mountain passes within 50 km. The resort also boasts an international reputation thanks to having hosted 22 stages of the Tour de France. Although the routes are sometimes short, they are often quite steep, which means that, to gain the most from riding in the area, you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. One of the most famous cycling routes here is the ascent from Morzine to Avoriaz, the Col de Joux Verte, which is a short 14.5 km with 850 metres of altitude gain and an average 6% ascent with peaks of 11%. When you're tackling it, try and measure yourself against Bernard Hinault's record: 33 minutes in 1979.

See our Cycling Guide

Hiking in Morzine

If you're heading to Morzine in summer, you're in for a treat. The mountains here are stunning, and hiking is one of the best ways to soak it all in. With the vast Portes du Soleil area at your feet, you can explore a variety of trails, each offering beautiful mountain views.

Whether you're after a gentle lakeside stroll or a more challenging alpine adventure, there's something for everyone. Well-maintained, marked trails and clear signposting make it easy to navigate, and the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.

For an extra treat, consider picking up a Multi-Pass. This handy pass gives you access to the lifts, allowing you to explore higher terrain without the uphill slog. It's a great way to enjoy more of the breathtaking views with less effort.

See our Hiking & Walking Guide

Nightlife in Morzine

Morzine knows how to keep the fun rolling once the lifts stop turning, whether it’s snowy winter evenings or warm summer nights. There’s something for everyone, whether you fancy a chilled drink or a lively night out.

Start your evening with a relaxed drink in one of the local bars, enjoying a glass of wine or a refreshing beer. If you’re after more energy, head to the buzzing après-ski spots in winter or summer terraces alive with music and laughter. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes or trails.

Later on, live music bars offer everything from acoustic sets to full-band performances, and clubs keep the beats going until the early hours. If you prefer something more relaxed, you can settle into a more intaimate bar for a drink, a cocktail or a late-night snack.

No matter the season, Morzine’s nightlife has a place for you to enjoy the evening your way.

See our Nightlife Guide

Chalets in Morzine

A chalet holiday in Morzine is everything you picture when you dream of a mountain getaway. A cosy retreat after a day on the slopes, perhaps with a roaring log fire, a deep sofa to sink into or even a steaming hot tub with views of snowy peaks. Morzine has hundreds of chalets to choose from, ranging from traditional Savoyard farmhouses full of rustic charm to sleek contemporary builds with every modern comfort.

You’ll find options for every style of holiday, from fully catered luxury escapes where everything is taken care of, to self-catered hideaways that give you total independence. Chalets come in all shapes and sizes too, whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic bolthole, a family in search of ski-in-ski-out convenience or a large group wanting space to spread out. Many can be booked by the room or as an entire property, with facilities that might include anything from simple slope-side living to cinema rooms, private chefs and in-house spas.

Whatever your budget or wish list, there’s a chalet in Morzine to match and with so much choice, you’re sure to find the perfect home from home for your winter or summer stay in the mountains.

Holidays Rentals in Morzine

Apartments in Morzine range from small studios for two to spacious luxury pads with five-star facilities. They’re a flexible choice, often self-catered and can suit any budget from simple slope-side bases to high-end options with ski-in access, hot tubs and concierge services. Perfect for couples, families or groups, apartments offer the freedom to set your own schedule while keeping you close to the action. Just be sure to book early for the best choice.

Hotels in Morzine

While chalets and apartments are the most popular choices in Morzine, there’s a good selection of hotels and chalet-style hotels too, many offering high standards and hotel-like facilities. Hotels can be a great option if you’re not planning a full week’s stay, as they often provide more flexibility with dates and bookings.

Hotels in Morzine come in all shapes and sizes, from budget-friendly to luxury and many include extras like spas, swimming pools, fitness rooms, tennis courts, childcare and on-site restaurants. They’re ideal if you want the convenience of additional services alongside easy access to the slopes or for families or larger groups.

Compared to chalets and apartments, hotels might offer less space but make up for it with flexibility, communal areas and a range of catering options, making them perfect for shorter breaks or those who want a fuss-free stay.

How to get to Morzine

Morzine sits in the Haute Savoie region of France just over an hour from Geneva airport, making it one of the easiest resorts to reach from the UK, in around an hour. The centre of Morzine is the tourist office and from here it's a short walk to the lifts on either side of the valley that will take you up to either Morzine and Les Gets or Avoriaz and the further Portes du Soleil.

As Morzine is still a town rather than a resort it is possible to drive around, but for those without their own transport there is a free bus system that starts and finishes at the foot of Le Pleney that stops at the Prodians, Super Morzine and Ardent lift stations.

See our Getting Here Guide

Property For Sale in Morzine

Looking to buy property in Morzine? You’re choosing a lifestyle as much as a home. With a huge ski area on your doorstep, breathtaking alpine views, and endless summer activities, it’s a place where adventure is never far away.

In winter, you’re at the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski domain, with over 600 km of pistes stretching across France and Switzerland. When the snow melts, the mountains turn into a playground for mountain biking, hiking, and all sorts of outdoor adventures.

But it’s not just about the activities. Morzine’s charm lies in its authentic alpine village feel, traditional chalets, and welcoming community. Add in the local markets, fresh produce, and delicious cheeses, and it’s easy to see why so many people fall for this town.

Investing here means more than owning a property; it’s about embracing a lifestyle. With good rental potential and demand year-round, Morzine is a smart choice for combining leisure with investment.