Built in the 1960s, Avoriaz is a purpose-built resort that got it right – brilliant architectural design, good town planning, and car-free with easy access to the slopes at all points. It was the brainchild of local Olympic skier, Jean Vuarnet and architects Jacques Labro, Jean-Jacques Orzoni, and Jean-Marc Roques who created the fantasy-inspired getaway high on a steep cliff overlooking the town of Morzine. The village which over the years has kept its character and design is all angular and wood-clad and blends into the mountains.
Avoriaz is at 1,800m and as it is at the center of the Portes du Soleil ski area, is ideally situated to make the most of the 403 miles (650 km) of skiing. It offers good skiing for all levels and as it is truly a car-free resort, it is popular with families. It also benefits from being one of the closest French resorts to Geneva airport meaning short transfer times and for such a modern masterpiece, the final leg of the journey is romantically old fashioned as horse-drawn sleighs take you from the car park/taxi stop at the entrance to the resort to your accommodation.
Set in a bowl the skiing and lifts fan out in all directions and the slopes are easily accessible from most accommodations. There are lots of après-ski activities and a plentiful supply of bars and restaurants ensuring that Avoriaz ticks all the holiday boxes.