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Non-skier things to do in Avoriaz

Can't ski, won't ski? It's not all downhill you know

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By Tracy Wise, Updated

Whilst Avoriaz is a great place to ski, there are many activities to suit non-skiers of all ages.

You don't have to be a skier to fall in love with Avoriaz. Whilst the valley is famous for its world-class slopes, it's also packed with unforgettable experiences for visitors who'd rather keep their feet off the pistes. From soaring cable cars and scenic mountain walks, indulgent spas and cosy cafés with spectacular views, there's plenty to enjoy at every pace. Whether you're travelling with skiers or simply looking for a different kind of alpine escape, here are the best things for non-skiers to do in Avoriaz.

Après-ski with everyone else

You don't have to ski to enjoy "après-ski". Meet up with the rest of your group in a local bar and share stories from your day over a beer. Going to party at Folie Douce in Avoriaz is a great way to spend the afternoon watching the amazing cabaret, then dance to the live, dynamic house band. Or do something a bit different with your après-time and head to the local ice skating rink for a fun evening set beneath the snow clad mountains. Situated in the heart of the resort, there are also push around chairs to help the kids. Alternatively, grab a sled and head to the sledging run behind the tourist office. It is equipped with lights and clearly marked.

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Nordic skiing

Still looking for something to occupy your time? There's always cross-country skiing to try. An extremely popular mountain sport, known as 'ski de fond' in France, there are numerous tracks available across the Portes de Soleil area. Avoriaz and Super-Morzine is a high altitude sector with lots of sunny, easy tracks with wonderful viewpoints. The Manche Valley is pure back-country with no lifts for miles, simply long, well-maintained tracks from Nyon to the Mines d'Or lake, and it's possible to reach l'Érigné from Morzine by the free shuttle E. This very accessible sport is relatively low cost, you can hire equipment and arrange lessons and guiding locally, and the views are to die for!

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Hire a guide and go on a tour

Discover Avoriaz’s quieter side with snowshoe (raquette) adventures through peaceful alpine landscapes. Explore independently with a trail guide from the tourist office or join a guided excursion, with half-day, full-day and evening options available. A pedestrian lift pass also provides access to groomed winter walking trails suitable for all abilities. For previous skiers, ski touring offers the chance to escape the crowds, book a guide and follow famous routes and explore the mountains with skins on. Always dress for the conditions, follow marked trails and respect the natural environment.

Things to do in Avoriaz

Experience Avoriaz beyond skiing with a range of mountain adventures and family activities. Take in spectacular views on a tandem paragliding flight or helicopter tour, relax in the tropical surroundings of Aquariaz with its pools, climbing walls and outdoor spa, or enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the pedestrianised resort. For more excitement, try husky sledding, where you can drive your own team, or explore snowy trails on a fat-bike. With activities for all ages and energy levels, there’s plenty to discover off the slopes. For the more popular activities we recommend booking in advance.

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Visit some local highlights

There is a lot of culture in this area and the French are proud to show this off. The Ferme de Seraussaix is a working cattle farm located on the Route d’Avoriaz, open daily and free of charge, you can visit the cows and their calves, look around the shop, and pick up some local cheeses and meats amongst other farm produce. Or drop into the local cinema, grab a box of popcorn and catch up on the latest releases - look for VOST or VO (version originale) for English language films. 

Treat yourself

Or if all of that sounds far too active and you really just want to pamper yourself and read your book, or stare at the view, there are numerous spas and treatment rooms you can enjoy. Many hotels have luxury spas which are open to non-guests, and mobile massage companies will arrange to visit you at your chalet or apartment. 

Book a table up the mountain

Many local restaurants have well-priced lunchtime set menus offering the same cuisine as their main menus, but often with considerable discounts. Some offer wine tasting sessions also. Les Lindarets also known as the goat village, located below the Ardent bubble lift, gets its name from the crowds of goats that reside in this particular part of the resort every summer. During the winter, they are nowhere to be seen, however, the village still attracts groups of people looking for good food or a cosy corner to sip on a mulled wine.

Latest News & Reviews

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Upcoming Events

There is plenty going on in Avoriaz throughout the year. The resort plays host to a number of winter music festivals which take place across the resort and pistes, namely Rock the Pistes and Snowboxx in March. In summer, the Pass'portes du Soleil mountain bike festival is the biggest event for bikers, with the occasional Tour de France stage passing nearby.

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Trail des Hauts Forts,
Craft Festival, Avoriaz July 2023
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UCI Mountain Bike World Series, Les Gets
Inaugural Morzine - Montriond Triathlon
Avoriaz Dance Festival