From a landmark anniversary to freestyle improvements, refreshed accommodation and exciting mountain events.
What's new this winter in Avoriaz
From the ski area to what's fresh in the resort
As winter approaches in Avoriaz, we take a look at what's new for the 2026-2027 season.
Few Alpine resorts have quite the same character as Avoriaz. Famous for its striking architecture, ski-in, ski-out accommodation and entirely pedestrianised streets, the resort has spent six decades doing things a little differently. This winter, it has plenty to celebrate, with its 60th anniversary taking centre stage alongside improvements to its freestyle scene and a refreshed choice of places to stay.
There's also a packed calendar of events to look forward to, from the return of Snowboxx to live music on the slopes during Rock the Pistes. And with the vast Portes du Soleil ski area on the doorstep, there are plenty of reasons to make Avoriaz your base this winter.
Whether you're here for the skiing, the après-ski, family adventures or the resort's distinctive Alpine atmosphere, here's what to look out for in Avoriaz this winter.
On the slopes
A new chapter for the La Chapelle Snowpark
Avoriaz has long been a major destination for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, and this winter sees further investment in its celebrated park scene.
The La Chapelle Snowpark is getting a new chill area as part of the second phase of the Marches de la Chapelle project. The aim is to create a livelier meeting point where riders can take a break between runs, watch the action and spend time with friends.
The redesigned space is also set to host concerts, DJ sets and events throughout the season, bringing a more social atmosphere to the freestyle area. A skate ramp is another planned addition, giving visitors the chance to swap their skis or snowboard for a skateboard, with the area cleared of snow when necessary.
The new space is expected to open at the beginning of the season, with an official launch planned for December 2026.
It's an exciting development for Avoriaz's freestyle community, making the Snowpark more than just a place to practise tricks. It also adds another gathering point for anyone who enjoys the creative, sociable side of mountain life.
Six decades of innovation on the mountain
Avoriaz celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2027, marking six decades since the resort's pioneering vision began to take shape.
From the outset, Avoriaz challenged conventional ideas about mountain tourism. Rather than building a traditional Alpine village around roads and cars, its founders imagined a pedestrianised resort where skiing would be part of everyday life and the architecture would follow the surrounding landscape.
That vision remains central to the resort today. Visitors can move around on foot, on skis or by horse-drawn sleigh, while many accommodations offer direct access to the slopes.
The anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate the people, ideas and architecture that have shaped Avoriaz, with a programme of events and activities being developed throughout the year.
For returning visitors, it's a chance to rediscover the resort's history. For first-time visitors, it's an opportunity to experience one of the Alps' most distinctive destinations at a particularly special moment.
More than 600km of skiing to explore
One of Avoriaz's greatest advantages remains its position at the heart of the Portes du Soleil, the extensive ski area connecting French and Swiss resorts.
With more than 600km of pistes across the wider area, there's an enormous variety of skiing to explore, from wide, confidence-building blues to challenging descents and extensive freeride terrain.
Avoriaz itself sits at approximately 1,800 metres, with direct access to the surrounding ski area and connections towards Morzine, Châtel and the Swiss resorts.
For families and mixed-ability groups, the choice of terrain makes it easy to plan different days on the mountain. Beginners can build confidence on the gentler runs, while more experienced skiers can venture further afield and discover a different valley each day.
And with the new La Chapelle chill area adding to the freestyle offering, there's even more reason to mix up your usual routine this winter.
In the resort
Avoriaz's accommodation scene is evolving while retaining the architectural identity that makes the resort so recognisable.
Capella: a refreshed ski-in, ski-out residence
One of the key accommodation developments for winter is the transformation of Pierre & Vacances' Capella residence. Situated at approximately 1,800 metres, the residence is being relaunched following a substantial renovation, with all 143 apartments designed for four guests receiving a full refurbishment.
The interiors combine contemporary styling with warm colours and wood finishes, creating a comfortable base for families and smaller groups. The shared spaces have also been reimagined, including a new south-facing indoor swimming pool overlooking the surrounding mountain peaks.
Energy efficiency is another important part of the project, with improved insulation and other measures intended to reduce the property's carbon footprint.
The result is a refreshed take on an established Avoriaz address, combining convenient access to the slopes with modern facilities and a stronger focus on environmental performance.
For visitors who prefer the flexibility of self-catering accommodation without compromising on comfort, Capella is one to consider for the coming season.
Events
Avoriaz is well known for great events and music festivals and this year is no exception. The season kicks off with Rock on Snow for the opening weekend. During the season you’ll find the legendary Rock The Pistes and Snowboxx events.
Full details of all the main events for Avoriaz this winter are on our events page.
