Winter has finished, the inter season is now upon us, and it is time for us to visit friends and family, relax a little, and get ready for the upcoming summer season.
We are looking forward to our Summer in Morzine, with plenty of activities to do in the local area we are excited about getting on some mountain bikes, and seeing the mountains in a different light.
Theres so much to do in the local area, here’s a little taster of what is on offer in the Alps in summer time.
Hiking is one of the major draws to the Portes de Soleil. Endless beautiful hikes, short or long, for the family or for hard core hikers, there’s something for everyone in the 200km of signposted trails in the area, with the mountains as a perfect backdrop. Always make sure you are well prepared, with drinks and snacks, and check the Tourist office in town for maps of trails, and information. Keep an eye on the weather too, you don’t want to get caught out in a rain shower without a coat!
Mountain bikers can reach most of the Portes de Soleil on the great lift system, open from mid June to mid September. Hundreds of kilometres of trails are accessible, from simple easy lower level cycles, or road biking, to hard core downhill trails and jumps, everyone will be happy. With the opportunity for great weather, its the perfect area for anyone interested in biking.
Golfing is probably the next most popular activity in the Morzine and Les Gets area. There is a 9 hole Morzine – Avoriaz course, and a slightly more technical 18 hole course in Les Gets. Both are situated in stunning mountain scenery, with clubhouses and restaurants nearby. Perfect for the golfer who wants a dramatic surrounding, whilst enjoying their favourite sport.
The Parc des Dereches, slap bang in the centre of Morzine, has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as a kids pool, waterslide and bouncy castle open in the summer. Theres even a beach volleyball court and sun loungers, as well as tennis courts, so the whole family will be entertained. You can also swim in Lake Montriond, and the lake in Les Gets, which both have cordoned off areas for swimming, and life guards in July and August. Surrounded by mountain views, its a refreshingly fun day for all the family.
The Parc de Dereches Equestrian centre also offers rides and trails, lessons and more to anyone who has a love for horses. Theres plenty of fishing available at Lac Mine D’Or, Lac de Montriond, or even the River Dranse that flows through Morzine to Evian, just ensure you obtain a permit first.
Aventure Parc, Les Gets, and Cascade Aventure both offer adventurous tree circuits, suitable for kids and adults, zip wires and other adventure activities to keep the whole family entertained. Canyonning is offered by several companies in the Morzine area, including Evolution2 and Cascade Aventures. Slip and slide your way along a river bed, using the natural obstacles, to abseil, climb and slide down the rapids. It may be a bit chilly, but its tons of fun. Most companies will have an age restriction, but all routes are guided by experts.
Rock climbing is also available in the Summer in Morzine, with adventure companies, or Mountain guides able to take you and provide equipment. Experience the mountains up close and personal. For those who are a little unsure about hanging off a cliff face, Via Ferrata offers a more secure course, roped the whole way along ladders, rope bridges and steps, with spectacular views
For the slightly less active, there are a number of spas, and companies offering massage services who can even come to your accommodation to make the experience even more relaxed.
Theres even plenty to do on a rainy day, with two cinemas that show films in English on a regular basis, play bowling or pool at Coyote bar, or go ice skating at the indoor rink at the Palais de Sports.
As well as offering superb mountain biking trails, Chatel also has the ‘Fantasticable’, a huge zip wire at the top of Chatel, that covers over three kilometres, and reaches speeds of up to 100km/h. Flying face first over the mountains, in this one of its kind thrill ride is great for any adrenaline junkie, and is accessible via the lift system in Morzine.
You can even Kayak, or White water raft, Luge, Paraglide, Paintball or spend a day on the farm, the possibilities in Morzine really are endless, and summer in Morzine is a great destination.
