CHALET
VANDRA
INSIDER
GUIDE
Morzine in Summer
Morzine in Summer swaps pistes for meadows, long golden evenings and easy days outdoors. Lift-accessed hiking opens up high ridgelines with big views, while e-biking and mountain biking criss-cross the Portes du Soleil. Down in the valley, Parc des Dérêches threads riverside paths past tennis courts and lawns to Morzine’s open-air pool complex—perfect for a cool-off between adventures.
Close by, Lac de Montriond is the go-to for swims, paddleboards and lazy picnics, with a gentle lakeside loop that suits all ages. For something uniquely local, head to Les Lindarets—the “goat village”—where friendly herds wander the streets and mountain restaurants spill onto sunny terraces. Thrill-seekers can ride Fantasticable, the giant zipline that sends you soaring over alpine bowls; for a gentler buzz, try the summer luge runs in Les Gets and Morzine, then settle in for a drink at the revamped Hotel Le Tremplin at the foot of the Le Pleney slope. Hire downhill bikes for technical trails, or opt for cruisers and e-bikes to follow the smooth riverside path past the riding stables and along the Dranse.
Families have plenty to choose from, including: tree-top adventure courses and zip lines in the forest, pony rides by the river, beginner bike zones and pump tracks, mini-golf, canyoning and guided via ferrata for teens, plus easy stroller-friendly walks to picnic spots and waterfalls with secret plunge pools. With frequent lift openings through summer and the good-value Multi Pass, it’s simple to mix high-mountain views with relaxed valley days.
Village life stays lively and low-key: Wednesday-morning markets bring produce, cheese and flowers to the centre; activities in the main square run through the season with music, children's workshops and pop-up events in the height of the Summer; and just over the hill, golf in Les Gets offers an 18-hole course with sweeping views and Wibit waterpark proves a big hit with children of all ages.
From high-energy days to slow lunches in the sun, everything is within easy reach from central Morzine.
Morzine in Winter
Morzine in Winter is pure theatre: twinkling streets, snowy rooftops and a festive Village Enchanté programme that runs from Christmas into New Year.
Expect Santa arriving by sleigh, children’s workshops and live music in the square. On New Year’s Eve, ESF instructors blaze down Pleney in a torch-lit descent, followed by a big fireworks display—vin chaud in hand, it’s a goosebump moment for all ages.
Between celebrations, lace up at the outdoor ice rink by the Tourist Office for classic winter vibes under the lights, then wander to cafés and bars as the village hums late into the evening. On snow, Morzine unlocks the vast Portes du Soleil—one of the world’s largest linked ski areas spanning France and Switzerland. Cruise from forest trails to high, open bowls, hop the border for rösti lunches, and—if you’re up for it—tackle the legendary Swiss Wall (Pas de Chavanette), a steep mogul classic dropping from the ridge into Les Crosets. Big skiing, big smiles, and a festive village buzz from first snowfall to last lift.
Beyond the pistes, the valley is stacked with winter adventures: tobogganing and sledging hills for quick thrills, husky-sled rides through snowy forests, and an unforgettable eagle show up at Nyon. Swap skis for snowshoes to reach quiet viewpoints, take a tandem paraglide over the valley, or spin a few laps on the outdoor rink. Night-skiing runs on selected evenings, while spa days, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice climbing and even ice-diving at Lac de Montriond round out a week that’s as exciting—or as easygoing—as you want it to be.
Everything is close and simple: a walkable village centre, quick access to Pleney and Super Morzine lifts, and plenty of beginner areas and ski-school meeting points for first turns. Afternoons drift into hot-chocolate stops and sun-trap terraces; for high-energy après, La Folie Douce in Avoriaz brings open-air Cabaret shows with DJs and dancers before the last lift back. Evenings mean cosy Savoyard suppers, lively bars and the occasional late-night set. From family lessons and gentle greens to full-throttle powder days and après, Morzine makes winter feel effortless.
Restaurant Recommendations
Morzine–Avoriaz punches above its weight for food—cosy Savoyard staples, wood-fired grills, creative bistros and a lively brewpub scene. Below are our go-tos - book ahead in peak weeks:
La Cabane, Avoriaz — Ski-in with a modern mountain feel, upbeat atmosphere and refined brasserie dishes; a fun choice for long lunches that drift into late afternoons. Expect polished service and a playlist that keeps the terrace buzzing on blue-sky days.
Le Chaudanne, Morzine — Polished dining with a deep wine list; French classics and Savoyard favourites delivered with professional service—great for an occasion. The downstairs bar is perfect for a pre- or post-dinner glass if you’re making a night of it.
La Grange, Morzine — Warm, traditional setting in the village centre; comforting Savoyard and French dishes, wood-stove vibes in winter and a small sunny terrace in summer. Portions are generous and the team are brilliant with families.
Le Bec Jaune, Morzine — Creative kitchen and house-brewed beers; seasonal small plates and excellent burgers in a relaxed, buzzy room—ideal for a casual night. There’s a distinct Asian twist here—think ramen nights and umami-rich specials alongside the regular menu.
Les Halles, Morzine — Smart, modern bistro with a produce-led menu, good cocktails and an easy all-day rhythm from lunch to apéritifs to dinner. Expect clean flavours, tidy plating and a few daily chalkboard extras.
Le Tremplin, Morzine — Legendary slope-side terrace at the foot of Le Pleney; crowd-pleasing menu, sunny lunches and a lively après scene. Nab a table outside for golden-hour people-watching as the last skiers sweep in.
Le Vaffieu, Pleney — Classic chalet restaurant on the mountain with a big sun-trap terrace; traditional dishes done well—perfect for a mid-ski rendezvous. Book early for peak-time lunches and arrive hungry—the gratins are worth the detour.