Activities in Morzine

Top three things to do in Morzine

Below are our three favourite activities in Morzine but there are plenty more to choose from. Check out the selection of things to do below for some holiday inspiration – you'll see that there are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding in Morzine.

1. Winter sports, skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are probably the most popular activities in the Morzine and Les Gets areas. But we're not talking about lift-assisted, downhill skiing and snowboarding only – there's a whole host of activities that involve boards strapped onto your feet including ski touring and split boarding, cross-country skiing or telemarking. 

But there's much more than just skiing and snowboarding in Morzine in the winter. The mountains are the perfect setting to go snowshoeing and husky-dog sledging, while the ice skating rinks in Morzine town centre will keep the whole family entertained.

2. Mountain biking

Many people would argue that it's actually mountain biking that's the number one activity in Morzine. The Morzine and Les Gets trails and bike parks are considered the best in the world and attract hundreds of Enduro and downhill biking aficionados every summer to its almost 150km of tracks, that meander through lush forests to reach stunning mountaintops with breath taking views. An experience not to be missed!

3. Walking, hiking and running

In the summer, the Les Gets and Morzine pistes turn into meadows and deep-forested trails to explore on foot. From easy valley strolls to gruelling trail running climbs, everyone can explore the Morzine valley's beautiful sunny landscapes.

Cinema

There is Cinema Rex on the rue du Bourg in Morzine with one salle, showing English and French movies throughout the season. Les Gets also has a cinema in town an Allocine showing English and French version movies.

Climbing in Morzine

Rock climbing

Like most of the Alps, Morzine is a great place to go rock climbing. Experienced climbers can tackle the mountainside rock and enjoy the fantastic views (just make sure you have all the right gear and safety equipment). While there are a number of adventure companies and mountain guides who can take you out on your first climb and show you the 'ropes'. Some of the most popular rock climbing areas include the Rocher de la Chaux, which is perfect for beginners, near Saint Jean d'Aulps, the Falaise des Ardoisières near Morzine or the Terres Maudites, where the famous Morzinoise route is, which has long but moderately easy climbs.

Via Ferrata

If climbing up sheer rock on the end of a piece of rope sounds a bit scary, then Via Ferrata climbing offers an element of security that still allows beginners to enjoy the achievement of having scaled a mountain. This form of climbing was invented by Italian soldiers in the Dolomites who used it to enable them to scale vertiginous faces easily and quickly. Following marked routes through the mountains, you are helped along by steps, bridges and ladders whilst being roped up for extra safety. 

The main Via Ferrata site in Morzine is the Saix du Tour, near Avoriaz. It is 600m in length and affords some beautiful views over the valley. It features footbridges, monkey bridges and ladders, and should take around two to two and a half hours to complete. It is accessible from May to October if there is no snow. Suitable for adults and children over the age of eight.

You can hire all the essential equipment, including helmet, harness and "cows tails" at most sports shops in resort. If you're a beginner, you should also book a mountain guide or instructor. 

Ice climbing

For the true mountain enthusiast, why not scale an amazing frozen waterfall or glacier? This is a fantastic sport, not just for experienced mountaineers. The frozen columns of the Gachette, Dame du Lac and Brochaux waterfalls are stunning locations to try your hand at ice climbing. The ice climbing season peaks between December and March. You can either go with a guide from an adventure company in Morzine or you'll need to know what you are doing and bring your own kit.

Mountaineering and mountain climbing

The summits and ridges of the Chablais region might not be as famous as their neighbours in the Mont Blanc area but the fact that they are more gentle makes them fantastic terrain to discover ski mountaineering. The quantity of snow in winter usually requires using touring skis for the approach hike, which means ending the outing by a really enjoyable downhill run.
Local mountain guides offer formulas for all skill levels, from beginner mountaineers to expert climbers. 

Culture and guided tours in Morzine

Guided tours

There are free guided tours of Morzine old town on Thursdays at 10:00 during the season from the covered hall next to the church. For a longer day out, head down towards Thonon and take a trip underground at the Gorges du Pont du Diable. There are a series of walkways and steps leading you into the gorge. It's a great place to escape the heat of the summer days!

Cheesemaking tours

If you fancy a free, educational activity, why not try a lesson in cheesemaking at the central Morzine cheese shop? La Fruitiere L’Alpage (which is close to La Ferme de la Fruitiere restaurant) offers free tours of its cheese cellar on Wednesdays at 09:00. You’ll learn about how all the popular Savoyard cheeses are made, whilst also tasting a few.

Museums

A visit to a museum is a great idea on a bad weather day or for those in the group who don't ski. In Les Gets, at the Mechanical Music Museum, you'll learn about the history and development of this kind of music. The slate workshop and mines in Morzine can also be visited – local master Franck Buet will explain the origins of this 100 year old trade in Morzine and how the stone is crafted.

Cycling and mountain biking in Morzine

Mountain biking

Morzine, together with the wider Portes du Soleil area, was the first to create a dedicated mountain biking area based in a winter ski resort, and it's still considered the best MTB/VTT area in the world by many. Its popularity has increased year on year, aided and abetted by the stunning alpine scenery and more than 80 km of world-class enduro trails and 50 km of downhill slopes. Note that, in French, mountain biking is called VTT (Vélo Tout-Terrain!).

The variety of terrain ensures that everyone, from beginners to expert and pro-level downhill and freeride riders, can get many days riding on trails suited to their preferences and ability level. Morzine's central position means you can freewheel down to the village from most of the Portes du Soleil ski lifts.

Cycling

Morzine is great for cyclists. There are 15 mapped itineraries starting from here as well as 25 mountain passes within 50 km. The resort also boasts an international reputation thanks to having hosted 22 stages of the Tour de France. Although the routes are sometimes short, they are often quite steep which means that, to gain the most from your riding in the area, you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. The most famous cycling route here is the ascent from Morzine to Avoriaz which is a short 14.5 km with 850 metres of altitude gain and an average 6% ascent with peaks of 11%. When you're tackling it, try and measure yourself against Bernard Hinault's record: 33 minutes in 1979.

Fishing in Morzine

Lake fishing

There are a few local and nearby lakes where you can catch some fish and enjoy the alpine scenery: Lac Mines d’Or, Lac Montriond, Lac Plan du Rocher... You can also fish the River Dranse, which runs from Morzine to Evian, in which the much sought after Lake Geneva (Lac Leman) trout spawn their eggs. You must, however, ensure that you have the correct fishing permit and are aware of the local fishing regulations.

To fish on Lac Mines d'Or you can obtain a fishing permit from the Lac Mines d'Or restaurant.

Fitness and swimming in Morzine

Gym

There is a fully-equipped gym at the Mountain Rehab facilities in L'Aiglon, where they also offer fitness classes and have a dedicated Pilates room. At the Parc des Dereches, they offer fitness and yoga classes, plus squash, tennis and multisports courts.

Swimming

Swimming can be great fun for all the family. In Morzine, head to Parc des Dereches where you can enjoy two indoor heated pools (a 25x15m and a 12.5x10m teaching pool) as well as a 50m2 paddling pool all year round. There is also a large 160m2 spa area with saunas and Turkish baths, as well as a relaxation area with loungers. They offer swimming lessons and Aquagym.

Team sports

You will find a multisports court at the Parc des Dereches, near the tennis court, which offers free access every day. It has hoops and markings adapted to basketball and other team sports – contact them if you want to book the ground. Beach volleyball in the heart of the French Alps may sound strange but, in Morzine, you can hop on the sand and play a game of volleyball with your friends or family. Located in the Parc des Dereches, the beach volleyball court is situated by the outdoor swimming pool and open in July and August.

Flying in Morzine

Helicopter tours

Sit back and admire the mountains from even higher up. Daily panoramic helicopter flights are available in Morzine (weather permitting) with a number of local flight companies. Relax and enjoy the stunning views as you fly over the snow-capped mountain tops, glaciers and alpine forests of the Alps.

Paragliding

If you’ve never tried paragliding before, then Morzine is a great place to learn how to fly. Known as 'parapenting' in France, there are a great number of clubs and organisations in the area whose sole purpose is to give you the experience of flying. Flights usually start at the top of the Super Morzine lift and descend down to the Pléney. Other popular routes depart from the Chaux Fleurie, the Ardent and the Crete d'Arare. Top tip: go on a sunny, warm day when the thermals will keep your airborne for longer.

Hot air ballooning

One of the best ways to take the spectacular mountain scenery from a different point of view is on a hot air balloon. There are companies around Morzine which offer balloon rides, which usually take up half a day including preparation and inflation.

Golf in Morzine

Morzine Avoriaz golf course

The area boasts the nine hole Morzine Avoriaz golf course. Situated at the entrance to Avoriaz, the course is bordered by pine forests and has the spectacular back drop of the Chaîne des Aravis. You are welcome to dine at the clubhouse, pick up a few essentials from the pro-shop, or just relax with a drink on the terrace.

Les Gets golf course

There is an 18 hole golf course in Les Gets. This fairly technical course offers panoramic views and great facilities. The clubhouse is a welcoming place to enjoy a drink and the restaurant has a lovely terrace on which to enjoy lunch. Coaching, equipment hire and electric buggies are all available. With stunning mountain views and pleasant summer weather, this is a wonderfully relaxing way to spend the day.

Horse riding in Morzine

Horse riding

The Portes du Soleil offers a wide expanse of spectacular terrain on which you can saddle up and go exploring. There are a range of trails and routes waiting to be explored in Morzine and what better way to explore them than on horseback? 

In the Parc des Dereches is the equestrian centre, you can have lessons for all abilities in horse riding from beginner to advanced. They also offer camping tours and rides which will be supervised by a qualified instructor and allow you to experience some of the spectacular mountain views including panoramic views over Mont Blanc. 

Open during the summer season, you can explore the mountains and trails on horseback with family and friends, as lessons and classes are accessible from age three. Ponies are also available to hire for half an hour within the park. A great and exciting activity to do with all the family and a fun way to explore the mountains and scenery.

Horse-drawn sleighs and carriages

Up to five people can have a ride in a horse-drawn sleigh (in winter) and carriage (in summer) around the resort of Morzine. Starting at the Tourist Office at noon, the ride takes you through the whole village, showing you the old town, the different hamlets around Morzine and even going up to Lake Montriond. First come first served.

Indoor activities in Morzine

Bowling

There is a small underground bowling alley and bar on the main street of Les Gets to keep you entertained on bad weather days or if you're looking for something to do with a group or non-skiers.

Cinema

Catch the latest films and releases in Morzine on your winter holiday. Cinema Rex is located in the centre of Morzine and shows films in the evening and, some days, also in the early afternoon. Look out for VO or VOST for English speaking films.

Markets

There is a weekly market in Morzine every Wednesday morning in the parking by the post office and the Carrefour.

In Les Gets the weekly market is on a Thursday morning at the Place du Marché in the Parking du Marais.

Skiing and snowboarding in Morzine

Downhill skiing and snowboarding

Lift-assisted downhill skiing and snowboarding are the most popular activities in Morzine. So much so that we could write several guides dedicated to them... and, in fact, we have! Take a look at our ski areas, pistes and parks guide where you'll not only find a lot of information on the Morzine ski area but also links to many other articles: Ski lifts guide, best pistes guide, snowparks guide, beginner ski areas guide, advanced ski areas guide, off-piste ski areas guide, ski itineraries guide and even a guide to the best places to go skiing when the weather is bad.

However, lift-assisted downhill skiing and snowboarding aren't the only things you can do in Morzine while having a pair of skis or a board strapped to your feet.

Ski touring and split boarding

Whether it's going up the pistes that most people normally ski down or tackling a backcountry route, ski touring and split boarding allow you to get off the beaten path while working a sweat up the slopes. A number of ski schools, private instructors and companies can show you around or, if you've got all the necessary knowledge, you can head out in your own group. Some of the most famous ski touring routes in Morzine include the Vallée de la Manche or Col du Fornet, the Hauts-Forts summit, the Pointe de Vorlaz and the Dents du Midi tour crossing the border over to Switzerland.

Cross-country skiing

The Portes du Soleil boasts 216 km of tranquil cross-country trails. There are four cross-country areas accessible from Morzine: the Manche Valley with 25 km of challenging circuits, the Morzine-Avoriaz at Parc Naturel des Crêtes de Zorre with up to 47 km for all levels, Lake Montriond with 10 km of Canadian-style runs and the Pléney-Chavannes sector with 18 km of forest runs.

You can hire the comfortable boots and lightweight skis and poles fairly inexpensively from most sports shops in Morzine. You may also want to book a group or private lesson to learn the basics. To access the higher trails you'll need a lift pass. Cross-country skiers can purchase pedestrian passesl.

Telemarking

Telemarking is a form of downhill skiing where you are only attached to the binding at the toe so, to turn, you have to lunge and bring your heel upwards. Talk to one of the ski schools or private instructors who can teach you how to telemark and take you out on excursions using this technique.

Heliskiing and heliboarding

Heli-skiing is not permitted in France but there are a couple of companies in Morzine offering panoramic helicopter rides that include heliskiing. They pick you up in resort and take you over the border into Italy or Switzerland from where you will ski down accompanied by a mountain guide. It is expensive, but definitely a once in a lifetime experience!

Biathlon

Modern winter biathlon is a combination of cross-country skiing and rifle shooting that tests not only fitness but also patience and control. In Morzine you can try your hand at this Olympic sport. If you like cross-country skiing but want to add another challenge, then biathlon is the perfect way to escape into the natural, quiet surrounding mountains and then shoot stuff. Bit of a contradiction this one, but it's fun all the same.

Speed riding

The idea behind speed riding is to combine the sensations of skiing and paragliding into one activity, and then descend off-piste sections of the mountain using a mini-wing to enable you to access areas that you might not normally go. Learning and having fun with speed riding comes very fast as long as you are a competent skier – you need to be able to ski red pistes with confidence in any type of snow.

Snow and ice activities in Morzine

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing or, as the French call them, "raquettes à neige", is a perfect activity for bad weather conditions and a wonderful way for non-skiers to explore the mountains in and around Morzine. Either set out on your own or join a group led by a knowledgeable local guide and discover the hidden parts of the ski area. The trails will take you to places from where you can enjoy stunning views of Mont Blanc, Lake Geneva and the Swiss peaks or explore forests where local fauna such as chamois, wild goats and deer roam free. Popular spots include the Boutigny Valley and the Chardonnière forest.

If you don't know the local area well, we recommend you get a private guide or join a group on a snowshoe expedition – it may seem safer than skiing but you'll be exploring backcountry trails where the avalanche danger is high so it's better to go with someone who knows what they're doing. Snowshoes and ski poles are provided by most companies offering this as an experience, but you can also hire them from most ski hire shops in Morzine.

Ice skating

Go to the ice-skating rink in Morzine for fun loops with friends and family. With a refreshment bar, music and lighting you can enjoy the indoor ice skating rink at the Parc des Dereches all year round. In the winter, you can also scoot around on the outdoor ice skating rink situated in the tourist office square. Skate hire is available, as are discounted tickets for multiple entries.

Sledging

This is one winter activity that doesn't require a lot of expensive equipment, just grab your sledge and head for the nearest snow-covered hill!
You can rent a sledge at one of the many local ski hire shops , while most of the sports shops in Morzine will also have them for sale. Several activity companies also offer you the chance to sledge at night, down the ski slopes.

Husky dog rides

Be in charge of your own sledge and team of excitable husky dogs, driving them along forest paths in winter. After a brief explanation of how to make your team stop and start, you set off following the guides team. There are also dedicated rides for children. It's a very popular winter activity, so booking at least 48 hours in advance is a must. They run from early December to the end of April (snow-permitting) in Avoriaz.

Snowmobiling

Those who enjoy speed will love riding a powerful snowmobile (like a motorbike with caterpillar tracks) around Morzine. Discover the different dimensions of driving: carving turns, accelerating in a straight line, ascents and descents. Snowmobiles are a great way to explore Morzine especially as you get to ride them when the resort is at its quietest. Disappear into the woods and blast around empty snowfields on your scooter with your own guide. Remember to wrap up warmly especially if you go after dark, and bring goggles if there is powder. This is not a sport for the timid!

Ice diving

Plunge into the freezing waters of Lac Montriond and experience the thrill of diving under the icy layers above. Explore the beautiful water, the wildlife and ice formations found in the water. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced diver, you can have a go at ice diving. Adventure companies offering this activity will provide you with all the equipment and instruction you need and will take you on this underwater adventure.

Spas and massages in Morzine

Spas

If it is calm and relaxation you’re after then head to a luxury day spa or book in for massage therapies and beauty treatments. A day spa is also the perfect activity when the weather turns. You can keep warm and revive aching muscles in saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis or take a refreshing dip in a swimming pool. Unwind, relax and indulge.

Tennis and racket sports in Morzine

Tennis

The tennis club at the Parc des Dereches offers six hard courts and three synthetic grass courts, available to rent from early June to the end of September. They also have tennis training and lessons, while balls and rackets are available for rent.

Theme and waterparks in Morzine

Summer sledging

Summer sledging or 'luge' takes place on the hillside close to the Pléney gondola in Morzine centre. Take the lift up and sledge down 150 metres to the bottom. There are two trails of different lengths and difficulty levels, starting from the Crusaz chairlift. The lift runs from early July to early September each year, from 10:30 to 18:00, non-stop. Children must be three years old and all those under eight years old must be accompanied by an adult.

Adventure park

Adventure parks are designed for children and adults to play, explore, exercise and have fun in the natural mountain surroundings. The ropes, swings, tunnels, trees and activities will be a great day for children and adults alike. Qualified guides will be around the course throughout to make sure you are safe and having as much fun as possible. There are treetop adventure routes in Morzine – you can find them near the Nyon waterfall, at the Parc des Dereches and behind the sports centre.

Zip wire

The Fantasticable zip wire in the Portes du Soleil is the only one of its kind in the Alps. Located in Chatel, at the top of the Chaux Fleurie lift, this zip wire covers over 3 kilometres in two stages and reaches speeds of up to 100km/h. Strapped into a harness you fly face-first across the valley, taking in the views in unique style. All safety equipment is provided - Superman outfit optional…

Paintballing

Challenge your friends and family to a game of paintball! This exciting activity offers fun for groups of all ages. In most cases, you're split into teams and a variety of scenarios and courses are offered at the beginning of all games, with each game lasting approximately two hours. The ultimate aim is to shoot your opponents with paint pellets and capture their flag before they get hold of yours. In Morzine, the minimum age is 14 years old and there is a minimum of 10 participants.

Walking, hiking and running in Morzine

Walking and hiking

In the summer months, Morzine is an Alpine mecca for walking and hiking. The Portes du Soleil offers 800 kilometres of marked trails that go across a wide variety of mountain landscapes, from ridges to forests, farms and, of course, views of Mont Blanc and the Dents du Midi. From Morzine, you can embark on short walks to lakes like the Chavanette or the Lac de Montriond, farmlands like the Alpage de Morzinette, and waterfalls like the Cascade de Ardent. Longer hikes will take you across the border into Switzerland or down the surrounding valleys.

Trail running

There are over 400 kilometres of marked running trails in the Portes du Soleil area, most of them divided into easy, medium, difficult and expert runs, as well as skyruns (with bits above 2000m on mountain ridges). In Morzine only, there are four discovery routes in the Vallée de la Manche, two short routes in the Vallée des Ardoisières, a 'vertical kilometre' in Ressachaux, three enduro trails and three routes belonging to the Trail des Hauts Forts. You can even get high thanks to the lifts running during the summer.

Winter walking

Morzine is a winter walker's paradise. With lifts giving access to the higher ground and a network of groomed trails in the winter, it's very easy to discover the resort on foot. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you set out as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. You do not need any particular equipment, just a pair of sturdy boots and layers of warm clothing that you can take off or put on as necessary. A pair of walking poles will come in handy for extra balance on icy patches and for checking snow depth before you go striding forth. Top tip: buy ‘grippers’ for your walking boots to prevent slipping which you can buy from most local sport shops.

Watersports in Morzine

Kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding and pedalo boating at Lac Montriond

During the summer months, you can hire a canoe, pedalo, kayak or stand-up paddleboard at Lac Montriond. You can easily spend the day there splashing in the rock pools, having a picnic and walking around the shores.

Canyoning

Not-so-gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into the mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides – just make sure you choose a warm day. You will make your way along rivers and rapids, using the river bed as a natural obstacle course. Not suitable for very young children but anyone over the age of about eight can take the (very cold) plunge and try canyoning. With the safety of a guide, everyone can abseil down cascades, splash into pools and ride the river rapids. You can choose from short beginners’ routes, such as the one in Balme (Cluses) or longer ones for the more adventurous like the route down in Nyon (Morzine) which is not suitable for children under 12.

Waterpark

The Wibit Waterpark in Les Gets is a large inflatable obstacle course open from late June to the end of August. With around 40 different modules to play on, including a human catapult, rock climbing, trampolines, a giant slide and a monkey cage to name a few, it's a great plan for the whole family. You'll need to be six years and older and able to swim to have a go. Tickets can be bought on-site and there are discounts with a summer multi-pass.
 

White water rafting

If you haven't experienced white water rafting before then this is a definite 'must try' on your list of activities to do! From the middle of May until September, the Dranse river flows furiously as it is fed from the meltwaters running off the glaciers high above the town. There are various options available from a three-hour adrenaline rush to a full days excursion - this activity is guaranteed not to disappoint.

Hydrospeeding

Hydrospeeding is one of the newer extreme water sports to hit the market, it's a fun and exhilarating way to get yourselves down a river using a large float, which bears resemblance to a bodyboard – be ready to cling on for dear life as you send yourself hurtling down the rapids! This activity is a little more demanding physically than rafting or canoe rafting but allows you to discover the unique sensation of surfing down white water rivers. It is also accessible to all, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves. In Morzine, anyone over seven years old can descend the Dranse river on a board wearing thick neoprene and fins.

Caving and pot-holing

Caving or pot-holing (also known as Speleology) is an exciting way to explore the mountain caves and their intricate tunnel systems which have been naturally formed by the rock over time. Most of the caves will be absorbed in darkness so a hard hat and head torch are worn as well as appropriate clothing. If you are caving with an adventure company then they will provide all the safety equipment and tools necessary, as well as a professional guide. There are multiple caves to explore in the Morzine area, as well as in Megevette and La Balme. Children must be over seven years old to participate.