The Alpine ski resort of Morzine is a picturesque holiday destination, a fantastic place to relax and unwind, and a superb location to get out on the slopes (it puts you slap-bang in the middle of one of the largest ski areas in the world, the Portes du Soleil). With that in mind, it almost goes without saying that your skiing (or snow-boarding) is covered – simply step outside and world-class options are, quite literally, on the doorstep. But what if you want to get out and explore beyond the village, to combine a bit of skiing with some meaningful sightseeing?
With its prime location and exceptional accessibility, Morzine is the ideal destination to divvy up the holiday spoils and take advantage of the skiing as well as the landscape and local culture. Got three days? We’ve got some ideas.
Two Highlights Close to Morzine
Three days isn’t long, granted. However with a bit of forward-planning and the desire to mix it up, these two places within close proximity of the resort make for a lovely few hours of exploration, and a great way to get to know the region.
Evian
Around 25 km from Morzine, the name “Evian” will certainly sound familiar, as the place that’s famous around the world for its pure spring water. The full name of the town is Evian-les-Bains, and its picturesque aspect on the edge of Lake Leman (aka Lake Geneva) has earned it a reputation as one of the loveliest places to visit in the French Alps. From the town, which sits on the French side of the lake, your outlook is Switzerland.
By nature of its stunning location, even if you did nothing but walk around the lake shores along the Quai and enjoy lunch somewhere fancy, it would be a lovely day. However, the town does have several highlights that culture lovers will enjoy.
The Palais Lumiere is a spectacular nineteenth-century building that cuts a striking sight, with its white and gold facade, and glass dome on the roof. Used in days gone by as a place to “take the waters”, today it’s primarily used as a function centre, with some of the halls also devoted to an art gallery. The decor inside is rich and detailed throughout; it features some paintings of nymphs in the entrance lobby, while the main hall (once the pump room) houses some large statues and red marble basins.
The Evian Theatre is another example of elegant nineteenth-century architecture, with a neo-classical facade. It was built in 1883-1885, and is immediately recognisable by its fluted columns and the row of lion statues on the cornice. Inside is just as impressive, with its gilded finishes and artistic decorations. It’s still in use as a theatre today.
Other things to do include a visit to the Casino, wander around Villa Lumiere, ride the Funicular, have a look at the Cachat Springs Point of Emergence and the Cachat Pump Room, or enjoy a cruise around the lake.
Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
Around 15 km from Morzine lies the small village of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, which is set on the River Giffre. It has been officially classified as “one of the most beautiful villages in France” and, rest assured, it absolutely lives up to the promise with its breathtaking alpine landscape.
Centred around the small abbey and church, which date back to the twelfth century, it’s a culture lover’s joy to explore the several small hamlets that make up Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. Along with various fountains and chapels, you can take in the traditional stone chalets, carved doors, farmhouses and the rich sense of history that abounds in this spectacular setting. The scenery is truly enchanting, with some renowned natural formations, the most prominent being the Cirque du Fer à Cheval, with its soaring cliffs, waterfalls and 3,000m peaks.
The National Reserve that surrounds the village is networked with hiking and walking trails, although that’s much more a summer pursuit than a winter one – however the skiing around here is exemplary (as part of the Grand Massif ski area) and something to add to Morzine’s extensive repertoire.
These two towns aren’t the only ones worth visiting around Morzine, however if you plan to spend a day or a morning in each, combined with a full day and a couple of afternoons skiing in and around the Morzine resort itself, you can go home happy – knowing that you’ve managed to turn a mere three days into a holiday!
Where to Stay
Hotel & Spa Le Dahu: Set on the stunning south slopes of Morzine, a few hundred metres from the village and the ski lifts, this outstanding chalet offers beautifully facilitated rooms with magical mountain views. Featuring private bathrooms, cable TV, comfortable modern furnishings, and access to a swimming pool and shared lounge area with cosy fireplace, this is the perfect home-from-home for an upmarket ski break.
Aiglon Morzine: Set in a fantastic location just four minutes walk from a ski lift, this lovely accommodation is in a large chalet with a spa and wellness centre. Providing well-equipped apartments, the chalet within easy walking distance of all the village amenities, including restaurants and supermarkets. Spacious, comfortable and very homely, the apartments offer a kitchen, lounge area, and generous bedrooms. Wake up and get out onto the slopes in minutes!
Hotel le Samoyede: Located right in the heart of the town, this charming and welcoming hotel delivers on atmosphere and amenities. It comprises individually designed, mountain-style rooms, an onsite restaurant serving up Savoyarde cuisine, a bar, friendly, accommodating staff, and a setting to die for. There’s nothing left to want!
How to Get There
Getting to your mini-break in beautiful Morzine means flying into Geneva Airport, which is the most convenient and offers the best options for flights. With a flight time of under two hours, a host of carriers offer direct routes – including easyJet, British Airways, Jet2, and many more. Because it’s a very popular destination (with even more flights during peak times), you’ll have no difficulty finding a time to suit your travel plans.
Once you’ve landed in Geneva, the easiest and most convenient way of getting the rest of the way to Morzine is on a pre-booked transfer service with Shuttle Direct, which will take just over an hour and a half. You can choose from budget-friendly shared shuttles or a high-end, private transfer – but whatever way you choose to get from Geneva to Morzine, you can rest assured you’ll arrive safely, relaxed and ready to begin the fun.
Overview
UK to GVA Flight Time: 1 hours, 52 mins approx.
GVA to Morzine Distance: 69 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 1 hour and 34 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
Because we know every traveller has different needs and wants, at Shuttle Direct, we provide a range of services to get you from Geneva to Morzine in style and comfort. Here’s what you can choose from.
A shared shuttle bus is a very economical way to get from A to B, and back again. Once your flight lands, you’ll go to a designated meeting point at the airport, then board your comfortable shuttle with other passengers. You’ll be dropped at a central point at your destination. It’s not only a quick, easy and affordable way to get there, you’ll also have the chance to meet people going to the same resort.
If you’re not keen on travelling with other passengers and door-to-door is your preferred option, then a pre-booked local taxi is a good way to go. Your driver will meet you at the airport and then you’ll be taken straight from Geneva Airport to Morzine – unlike other people struggling with their luggage in the taxi queue!
If you don’t mind paying a little more for the privilege of luxury, then one of our private transfers will make you happy. Booking a private Morzine transfer means that your friendly driver will be waiting for you in the terminal to take you and your luggage straight to a high-end vehicle, then whisk you right to the door of your accommodation in no time. There’s nothing like starting your holiday in style with Shuttle Direct’s private airport transfers.
If you’re travelling with a larger family or group of friends, pre-booking a minibus simplifies the logistics no end. Getting from the airport at Geneva to Morzine in a minibus means you’ll all travel in the same vehicle, it’s door-to-door, and there’s abundant room for everyone’s luggage. No headaches, no hassles.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Deciding what’s the right airport transfer for you is something only you can decide, but bear in mind when making your choice, that it ultimately comes down to cost and convenience, and which one you feel is a priority.
Cost: If you’re looking to keep an eye on the budget, and want to save money for the good stuff on your holiday, then a shared shuttle is an ideal choice. While the cost is reduced, we don’t compromise on your comfort and safety, so the major factor you’ll need to consider is whether door-to-door service is essential for you.
Convenience: If your accommodation is slightly out of the centre, one of our private transfers is ideal, in a car or minibus. You’ll pay a little more to get from the airport at Geneva to Morzine, but your driver will take care of everything, leaving you just to enjoy the scenery.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is one of the most renowned and respected providers of onward ground transport to destinations all over Europe, North Africa and the rest of the world. We offer services that cover everything from an affordable shared shuttle bus, right up to a luxury private transfer. With friendly drivers, comfortable, safe vehicles and something for everyone, we suggest you get in touch as soon as you’ve booked your flights. Sit back and enjoy the ride with Shuttle Direct!
