A family-friendly resort with plenty of snow.
Avoriaz is located in the Portes du Soleil, which is known for being one of the largest ski areas in the world, covering several resorts across France and Switzerland. Avoriaz is the highest resort, and usually offers the best level of snow for skiers.
The higher attitude and snow means that the resort has the conditions to offer a variety of slopes suited to all ski levels. There are also several modern ski lifts that have improved the waiting times, while advanced skiers can enjoy the choice of three different off-piste runs.
Avoriaz Resort
It is a particularly popular spot for snowboarders, and it was one of the first ski resorts to have a snowboard-only section. It also has some great snowparks that are ideal for freestylers.
The resort isn’t just for advanced skiers and snowboarders however, as there is still plenty on offer for visitors who are at a beginner or intermediate level. There are freeride and freestyle areas for visitors looking to enjoy tree runs and parks where they can take their abilities to the next level.
Resort Statistics
| Base: | 1160 meters |
| Summit: | 2277 meters |
| No. of Pistes: | 53 |
| Total Piste: | 130 km |
| Cross Country: | 30 km |
| Total Lifts: | 35 |
| Gondolas/ Cable Cars: | 3 |
| Chairlifts: | 18 |
| Drag Lifts: | 14 |
Piste Map
Avoriaz Ski Areas & Slopes
If you are travelling with family or friends of various skill-levels then Avoriaz is likely to be a perfect resort, as it has runs to suit all abilities.
Plateua & Proclou
These ski areas are perfect for new skiers looking to make their attempt the slopes for the first time after a few lessons.
Beginners: There are numerous green runs for skiers making their first steps, while some blue runs are also available if you have built up some experience on the snow and are looking to step up to the next level.
Jean Vaurnet
This run is named after the founder of the resort, who was a downhill skiing champion.
Advanced: Expert skiers looking to face a challenging route will enjoy this 1,000m slope. It has been approved for World Cup races and provides a unique experience.
Les Snowcross
This area of the resort features various ungroomed slopes that provide the chance for skiers to enjoy free powder skiing. They are surveyed by ski patrollers throughout the season to ensure they’re safe.
Intermediate-Advanced: For skiers looking to enjoy a longer route, Les Crozats offers a challenging route that leads down to the world cup downhill run, stretching across more than 3km. There is also la Frontaliere, which is a wide slope that can be accessed with the Mossettes chairlift.
Ski Holidays in Avoriaz
Avoriaz Ski Passes
An advantage of visiting Avoriaz is that the child passes are available for skiers up to the age of 15, while there is also a junior pass for visitors aged 16-19 years old.
A one-day pass is €37.50 for adults online, or €40 at the resort, while children are €28.50 online and €30 at the resort.
Portes Du Soleil passes that let you explore the wider area outside of the resort with one day adults tickets costing €54-€57, while children cost €37-€38.
Ski Schools
There are a few different options to choose from if you or your family are looking to stepping on the snow for the first time and need some guidance. The Avoriaz Alpine Ski School offers lessons target at children and teenagers, as well as separate adult classes and private lessons. There is also the option for snowboarding lessons and guidance if you plan to travel off-piste.
There is also the ESF ski school which has various lessons for both kids and adults, as well as workshops for snowboarding and freestyle skiing.
Other ski schools in the area include New Generation, Freedom2Ski and Evolution 2.
Equipment Hire
If you are planning to hire your ski or snowboard equipment for your visit, it is often worth hiring it before your trip. Many stores often provide discounts for hiring the items in advance online. If you don’t order online, there will still be plenty of opportunities to get equipment and clothing while you are at the resort.
SkiSet Superski is a popular option and it is located along the main street. There is also Sport 2000, Ski Republic and Antoine Ski.
Family Fun in Avoriaz
Avoriaz prides itself on being a family-friendly resort. It offers large spaces that are especially tailored for children, allowing them to gain confidence on the snow and take their first steps into skiing.
It was also named the best ski resort for families at the 2018 European Ski Awards. This was because of the many initiatives that the resort has taken to ensure a safe space for families. This includes Avoriaz 1800 being the only ski resort in France that is car-free, meaning that families are able to wear there skis anywhere without worrying of potential dangers.
There is a snowpark where children can learn to ski and try their hand at freestyle as well. The Children’s Village, which has been open for over forty years helps teach younger children how to ski through games and activities, teaching them about positioning and how to move through the snow.
When to Go?
Snow Report
Avoriaz typically receives a lot of fresh snowfall throughout the season, while temperatures remain fairly comfortable for skiers.
Operating times
The resort is usually open between mid-December and mid-April each other, providing plenty of time for you to travel there and hit the slopes. During the season it is open from 9am until 7pm each day.