Background

Avoriaz 1800: A Car-Free Alpine Paradise

Experience the magic of the Alps in Avoriaz 1800: a car-free resort with stunning architecture, world-class skiing, and thrilling summer activities.

4.5

Avoriaz 1800, perched high in the French Alps, is a unique, car-free ski resort renowned for its innovative architecture and ski-in/ski-out design. Part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, it offers a blend of thrilling winter sports and pedestrian-friendly charm. In summer, it transforms into a haven for outdoor activities, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

A brief summary to Avoriaz 1800

Local tips

  • Book parking in advance, especially if visiting during peak season, as the resort is car-free and parking spaces are limited.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle buses to explore the surrounding area, including Morzine and the Prodains Express cable car.
  • Consider purchasing the Multi Pass for access to a wide range of activities in Avoriaz and the Portes du Soleil area during the summer.
  • Pack for all types of weather, as mountain conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.
  • Explore the local Savoyarde cuisine at the resort's restaurants and try traditional dishes like tartiflette and fondue.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Geneva Airport (GVA), take a train to either Cluses or Thonon-les-Bains. From either train station, buses operated by Altibus or SAT Léman provide transfers to Avoriaz, either directly to the resort or to the Prodains Express cable car. The bus journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. A one-way bus ticket costs around €15-€20. From the Prodains Express, a cable car provides access to Avoriaz.

  • Car

    From Geneva, follow the A40 to Cluses, then the D902 to Morzine and Avoriaz. Alternatively, take the A41 to Thonon-les-Bains, then the D902 to Morzine and Avoriaz. Note that Avoriaz is a car-free resort. Upon arrival, park in one of the outdoor or covered car parks located at the entrance to the resort. Outdoor parking costs around €7 per day. Covered parking is more expensive, with rates starting at €1.20 per hour. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

  • Cable Car

    The Prodains Express cable car provides a direct and quick (4 minutes) access to Avoriaz from the valley. From Morzine, follow signs to Les Prodains. Parking is available at the base of the cable car. A single adult ticket costs €8.70, and a round trip is €13.90. The cable car operates from 7:00 to 21:00 (Monday to Thursday), 7:00 to 00:00 (Friday and Saturday), and 7:00 to 22:00 (Sunday).

Unlock the Best of Avoriaz 1800

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Avoriaz 1800

Avoriaz 1800, a pioneering ski resort in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, stands out as a car-free, pedestrian village with unique architecture designed to blend seamlessly with the alpine landscape. Conceived in the 1960s by Olympic champion Jean Vuarnet, the resort was brought to life by Gérard Brémond and architect Jacques Labro, who sought to create a modern, sustainable destination that respected its natural surroundings. Avoriaz's architecture is inspired by the surrounding mountains, with buildings clad in wood and designed without traditional urban lines. This "organic architecture" has earned the resort recognition as one of the great architectural achievements of the 20th century. The absence of cars creates a tranquil atmosphere, where skiers, pedestrians, and horse-drawn sleighs share the snow-covered streets. In winter, Avoriaz offers access to over 600 km of pistes in the Portes du Soleil, catering to all skill levels. Snowboarders are particularly drawn to the resort's four snow parks, including the popular Stash. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, ice diving, paragliding, and snowmobile tours. The Aquariaz tropical paradise provides a unique aquatic experience with wild water rivers, pools, and a hot tub with mountain views. During the summer months, Avoriaz transforms into a mountain biking mecca, with access to the vast Portes du Soleil bike park. Hiking, climbing, rafting, and paragliding are also popular activities. The resort hosts various summer events, including the Trail des Hauts-Forts and the Avoriaz Danse Festival.

Popular Experiences near Avoriaz 1800

Popular Hotels near Avoriaz 1800

Select Currency