Holiday rentals in Morzine

Nestled in the French Alps, Morzine is a town in the southeast of France within the Portes du Soleil ski area, covering 12 ski resorts in France and Switzerland. At 1,000 metres above sea level, the town is located at the base of a river valley, with the River Dranse flowing through its heart. High mountain peaks and slopes blanketed by evergreen trees form a backdrop to the low-rise wooden buildings in the town.

The wealth in the area grew from its mining activities, and the high-quality Morzine slate that has been quarried here for centuries is showcased on many of its roofs. Morzine is best known as a destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with skiers starting to arrive here following the installation of the Pléney Ski Lift in the 1930s, one of the first ever seen in France. Lifts at each side of the valley head to the many slopes in the area, transporting skiers in the winter and hikers during the summer.

As Morzine is in the Alps and attracts skiers from many different countries, the busiest time of the year is during the winter months. The high season is from the end of January to the end of March, which is when the conditions are normally at their best for skiing and snowboarding at the nearby slopes, including Avoriaz and Nyon. Some skiers prefer to come in April when the town is quieter and the days are longer, while the conditions can still be favourable on the ski slopes.

The snow normally starts to melt in the middle of the spring, making the water more powerful for those wishing to take part in white water sports in the area close to Morzine, including canoeing and kayaking along the River Dranse. In the summer months, temperatures warm up and mountain bikers and hikers are attracted to the alpine landscape. In August the town plays host to the Morzine-Montriond Triathlon.

Aquariaz Water Park

Step into a tropical paradise at 1,800 metres above sea level in the heart of the Alps at Aquariaz Water Park in neighbouring Avoriaz. Featuring an indoor river, swimming pools, a halfpipe, and climbing walls, this park offers both thrills and relaxation while surrounded by tropical trees and plants. The water is kept at a pleasant 30 degrees Celsius and exercise classes are available.

Pas de l’Aigle Viewpoint

Take the cable car or shuttle bus from Morzine to the top of Nyon, a mountain that is 2,109 metres above sea level. Set among the spectacular mountain landscape is Le Pas de l’Aigle, a glass walkway that stretches out for 10 metres from the rockface; it’s a dramatic way to take in the view, with a drop of 350 metres below the glass floor.

Parc des Dérêches Sports Centre

Although Morzine is known for its skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, there are other sports available at the Parc des Dérêches in the heart of the town. The wide range of facilities includes a skate park, tennis courts, ice rinks, and a swimming pool with a water slide in the Alpine landscape.