Most people know the resorts of The French Alps as skiing destinations, but summer holidays in the mountains are becoming popular escapes for those seeking fresh Alpine air, a plethora of activities and laid back summer vibes.
Morzine is both a mountain resort and a traditional Alpine village in the heart of the Portes du Soleil mountain range. In summer the ski slopes become hiking and mountain bike trails, the river rapids offer thrills for those who dare to raft, and stunning lakes make wonderful spots for fresh water swimming. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds at the beach, heading for the hills is an excellent option. Here’s our top reasons why we think you should add Morzine to your holiday bucket list.
1) For the thrills!
Whilst there is nothing wrong with your average beach resort break, trying something different will create amazing memories and broaden your perspective. Tackle white water rapids on a raft; take Fantasticable, a thrilling zip wire ride over the mountain tops; speed down the mountain on Morzine’s summer luge (sledge); try canyoning to abseil down a waterfall: this huge natural playground offers endless fun and thrills!
2) For the mountain lakes
A dip in a mountain lake takes swimming to a whole new level. Morzine’s local lake, Lac Montriond, is the perfect place to cool off and an opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains. As well as swimming, the lake and its shores offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, Stand-up Paddle Boarding and children’s pony rides. Head further afield to explore more beautiful lakes in the region, including Lac Bleu in Morillon, Lac Annecy and the beaches of Lac Leman (the French side of Lake Geneva).
3) For a comfortable climate
If you have assumed the mountains are wet and cold in the summer, think again. There’s plenty of sunshine, with temperatures reaching the high 20s, so don’t forget your sunscreen! That said, it’s not too hot to be active, and light summer breezes make it the perfect climate for outdoor adventures.
4) To bike in the mountains
Morzine is a Mecca for cyclists of both track and tarmac. Cycle the scenic roads of the Tour de France, and test you stamina on the area’s famous hill climbs. For mountain bikers, from Morzine you can access the world renowned bike park of the Portes du Soleil (PDS). Suitable for beginners through to pro riders, the lift system connects hundreds of miles of exhilarating downhill trails. The resort has everything you need to put together an unforgettable cycling holiday including excellent bike hire shops, bike guides and mechanics.
5) For its easy access from the UK
You won’t have time to get bored on the short flight from the UK to Geneva airport, and the 90 minute transfer to the resort makes Morzine the easiest resort to reach in the Alps. You can also take the greener option and travel by train via the Eurostar and high speed TGV out of Paris; or take an exciting road trip in your own car with an exciting ferry or Eurotunnel crossing of the Channel.
6) To explore a unique region in France
From animal parks to historic towns and breathtaking gondola rides: there are some fantastic day trips from Morzine. Take the telepherique (gondola) to Aiguille du Midi (3842m) from Chamonix and be blown away by the views of Mont Blanc; see Ibex, chamois and marmots in Merlet Animal Park above the Chamonix valley; or stroll back in time in Yvoire, a medieval town on the banks of Lac Leman.
7) To eat delicious French food
French mountain food is known for its hearty combinations of cheese, ham and potatoes. In the summer months, however, restaurant menus are full of colourful salads, crepes, filled baguettes and delicious quiches. In Morzine’s centre you’ll also find an excellent range of vegetarian and vegan options from modern cafes and eateries, offering pan-Asian food and fresh seasonal dishes. Morzine’s lively weekly market also offers an opportunity to learn about the region’s food specialities and buy seasonal fruit, vegetables, cheese and meat.
8) To get back to nature
Luscious meadows, waterfalls, lakes and mountains: the Alpine landscape never fails to impress and getting back to nature has great benefits for the mind, body and soul.
9) To stay in a traditional Alpine village
Morzine is a lovely Alpine town, which existed long before ski tourism with its roots in mining and farming. Pretty Alpine chalets, farmhouses and old churches dot the landscape, and unlike more modern resorts, you won’t find a high rise in sight. To really enjoy this lovely spot, The Farmhouse Hotel, is a boutique hotel in the old quarter of Morzine, and is a wonderful spot to rest your legs after adventures on the mountain. Bedrooms include a former prison cell, an old cobblers shop, a carpenters workshop and a traditional Savoyard Mazot (mountain hut where valuables were stored in times gone by).