Seeking a family friendly ski destination? It can be challenging to find resorts that enable both parents and kids to get the most out of their ski break, but there is one that stands out from the crowd and is perfect for families looking for kid-friendly dining, activities, facilities and accommodation. This is the lovely French village resort of Morzine, which is located in the pretty Haute-Savoie department in the Portes du Soleil skiing area.
Check out our useful guide to the Portes du Soleil area here.
A key reason for this is that Morzine has a wonderful and well-crafted Famille Plus package. This is packed full of kid-friendly services and entertainment (for all ages) so that the little ones will have a blast, while mum and dad can enjoy a stress-free holiday and even get a little time to themselves.
Here is what the Famille Plus package has in store for your brood.
Toddler’s Activities
From Sunday to Friday there is an excellent nursery for little ones aged between 3 months and 5 years. Here there are indoor and outdoor play areas and activities for them to try, plus meals if you wish. With complete supervision, it enables you to get out and explore the area safe in the knowledge that your youngsters are well looked after (and probably having a whale of a time!).
Piou-Piou’s club from the ESF Team is suitable for 3-year-olds through to 14-year-olds. They have specially designed activities to develop important ski-related skills in a safe and fun manner; this will help to develop confidence so that they can one day hit the slopes with you. Lessons are also available in the cheerful snow garden, where there are play workshops and special slopes for kids aged 3 and above. This club is on every day from 08:45 to 17:00 and lunch and a snack can be included.
You can also take your toddler to Dereches Park, which is a pleasant outdoor playground that is suitable for 3 year olds through to 12 year olds. Age requirements vary according to the different games, so you may want to supervise here. I also highly recommend the lovely carrousel outside the Tourist Office – this is suitable for all, so why not go for a spin yourself!
Children’s Events
Morzine also hosts plenty of daily events that are sure to keep the kids highly amused (and occupied!). Every Tuesday in February there is a brilliant Carnival that is suitable for the entire family; this includes face-painting, snacks, fireworks, crazy-pong and even cooking lessons for children (getting them started early is a terrific idea). This is free of charge and takes place outside the Tourist Office.
If you happen to be in Morzine during the French winter holidays, be sure to check out the kids Wood Workshop at the Tourist Office on Fridays between 16:30 and 18:30. Suitable for those from age 6, this will teach them new woodworking skills in and encourage them to be creative.
There are many other daily activities and events, so be sure to check at the Tourist Office to see what is on during your stay.
Practicalities
These are the services that you should know about before heading off on your family ski adventure:
Chemist
- Place de l’Eglise – 04 50 79 00 40
- Route de Plagne – 04 50 74 70 23
Doctor
Medical urgencies list is available from the Tourist Office (04 50 74 72 72)
Child Care
- Supermarche Casino – 04 50 79 07 32
- Superette Spar – sebar-morzine.fr – 04 50 79 01 44
- Supermarche Carrefour Market – 04 50 74 77 77
Buggy Rentals
– Alpes Attitude/Skimium – 19 place du Baraty – 04 50 92 95 13
– Intersport – 180 rue de Bourg – 04 50 79 14 24
How to Get to Morzine
There are a few different options for arriving in Morzine, but I would recommend that families opt for the short 90-minute flight to Geneva (GVA). This is because there are 235 flights each week and six airlines who fly directly from London, so you should easily be able to find an affordable and suitable flight. A return could cost as little as £44 with a bit of research.
Another reason that Geneva is the best choice is the fact that Morzine is just over an hour away by road. You will not want the stress of public transportation with your luggage and buggies, which is why a pre-booked Shuttle Direct transfer will be the best solution. They will have plenty of extra space and cover car seats for the kids, plus the friendly drivers will make sure that everyone is happy and settled before heading off. This will enable you to relax before arriving at your destination and starting your holiday.
Where to Stay:
The following are recommended due to their affordability, self-catering and space; this will help you to save costs but also feel “a home away from home’.
Chalet le Feufy – A short stroll from the ski lifts, these inviting apartments come with fully-equipped kitchen, private bathroom, TV and balcony. The privacy and space will help you all to feel settled, plus the kitchen makes it quick, easy and affordable to eat meals throughout the day on your own schedule. Previous guests have spoken very highly about its excellent location.
Chalet Sous l’saix – These spacious apartments feature a lounge area with flat-screen TV, private bathrooms, a balcony with mountain views, free Wi-Fi, a garden and kitchen complete with dishwasher. There are also a handful of shops and restaurants 1 mile from their location, so it is easy to pop out and get supplies or head out for dinner. The value for money has been a factor that previous guests have rated highly.
Apartment le Montana – Located in the heart of Morzine, these self-catering apartments are great value for money and put you in the centre of the action. Each property has a kitchenette, balcony, TV, garden, private restrooms and ski storage and rental facilities. The ski lifts are 200 yards from the door, plus the shops and restaurants are also easily accessible. This makes it an affordable, easy and comfortable option.
About Shuttle Direct:
Any holidaymaker seeking affordable, reliable and friendly airport transfers need look no further than Shuttle Direct. As Europe’s number one choice, they have a service for every budget and group size and their expert team can take all of the stress out of travel.
They have extensive experience in winter ski transfers and can carry your equipment for no added charge if advised at time of booking.
