Located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, Avoriaz is a charming winter holiday destination in the French Alps. Now, while it may be a renowned ski resort, this picturesque snow-covered wonderland offers visitors so much more than just slopes to glide down. From soothing wellness centres and heated swimming pools to horse-drawn sleigh rides and Michelin-acclaimed restaurants, this mountain village boasts an array of non-skiing activities that are perfect for a relaxing winter break.
Get Pampered at the Deep Nature Spa
Located in the La Falaise district of Avoriaz, you will find this luxury spa in the Amara Residence.
For a rejuvenating afternoon, nothing beats a good pampering session at Avoriaz’s Deep Nature Spa. It offers a great range of relaxing treatments. You can choose between a facial, neck and shoulders or full-body massages, or, if you prefer, there’s also a great selection of available beauty therapies, including facials and manicures. The spa’s beauticians and therapists will even tailor the treatment to your specific needs – all you have to do is ask at the reception.
What’s more, there a sauna, hammam and scrub cabin for you to enjoy. Its best feature, though, is its warm and soothing open-air Jacuzzi. You can just sit back, enjoy the bubbles and soak up the stunning view of the snow-capped mountains. The epitome of relaxation!
Chill-out at the Aquariaz Swimming Pool
Located at the top of the Avoriaz cliffs, this aquatic paradise can be found on Routes Rennes, which is close to the Boulevard ski run.
Aquariaz is a huge aquatic complex with heated swimming pools and a great chill-out space. Its tropical vegetation and various fountains have earned it the nickname ‘aquatic paradise’ – and it really is one! If you go to the central pool, you can peacefully enjoy the bubble-massage seats or gently glide down the flowing river. The complex even boasts an outdoor Jacuzzi with an unparalleled panoramic view of the valley below.
Treat Yourself to a Fine Dining Experience at Les Enfants Terribles
Housed within the Hôtel des Dromonts, this elegant restaurant is a celebration of the sixties.
It wouldn’t be a holiday in the Alps without a cosy candlelit dinner in a fine dining bistro. Les Enfants Terribles combines a chic avant-garde décor with delicious classic French dishes to create an intimate and friendly atmosphere. The menu is a clear demonstration of the head chef’s ingenuity and terrific palate, earning the restaurant a place in the 2017 Michelin Guide (and trust me, once you’ve tasted the filet de boeuf, you will understand why it has received so much acclaim).
Take a Romantic Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
Sleigh rides regularly depart from the resort’s entrance at the Accueil, from the centre of town, from the top of the Prodains cable car station and from the outdoor P2 car park.
Nothing says romance like a horse-drawn sleigh. In Avoriaz, you will notice that hundreds of horses regularly trot up and down the streets. They are one of the main attractions of this Alpine resort, so why not get into the winter spirit and treat your partner to a good old-fashioned sleigh ride? You can snuggle up under fur and wool blankets and glide through the Alpine village’s snowy streets. It is the perfect way to admire the fairytale-like chalets and the sparkling evergreens dusted with snow. It really is a magical experience.
How to Get to Avoriaz
The most hassle-free way of getting to your winter wonderland is to fly to Geneva Airport (GVA). Once you land, it is a just a short two-hour drive to Avoriaz. As the resort has a strict no-car policy, you really don’t want to stress yourself out by trying to hire a car (besides, no one likes to drive in the snow). Instead, book an airport transfer with Shuttle Direct. This service offers private and shared transfers, which you can organise in advance via the easy-to-use website. A friendly driver will meet you at the terminal, help you with your bags and safely take you to your hotel.
Where to Stay
Hotel des Dromonts: Home to the aforementioned Les Enfants Terribles restaurant, this hotel combines luxury and relaxation. Guest rooms feature private bathrooms, which are well-stocked with free toiletries. They also have a mini-bar, flat-screen TV and free internet connection. You will also have a balcony, from which you can admire the stunning mountains. There is also a piano bar with a stone fireplace to enjoy in the evenings, as well as a wellness centre, which offers full-body massages and beauty treatments.
Le Dahu Hotels-Chalets de Tradition: Located just outside of Avoriaz in Morzine, these charming chalets offer a terrific Alpine experience. All rooms feature a private bathroom with a shower, a bath, a hairdryer and free toiletries. They also have balconies with woodland views. At the end of the day, you can relax in the on-site swimming pool or sip a drink in front of the open-wood fire in the shared lounge and bar area.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is North Africa’s and Europe’s most reputable airport transfer service. It ensures an efficient and comfortable transfer service. You can book a private, shared or group shuttle via the user-friendly website in advance. You’ll be met outside the terminal by a trusted driver, who will safely take you to your luxury hotel, so you can start your relaxing holiday right away.
