What's new this summer in Morzine
Summer sun brings serious fun to Morzine
As the winter recedes, spring slowly turns to summer in the Alps.
Morzine’s growing popularity as a summer destination means the town continues to expand and adapt what it offers for visitors outside the ski season.
The lifts typically open by mid-June, with some running on weekends beforehand. It’s worth checking the latest lift opening dates to help plan your trip.
The Portes du Soleil is world-renowned for mountain biking, ranked as the best bike park in Europe, with Les Gets frequently hosting mountain biking World Cup events. It was recently named the second-best bike park in the world, according to Red Bull rankings.
Far from feeling like a dormant ski town, Morzine is now a thriving summer destination in its own right. The inter-season gaps are shrinking as the town stays vibrant well into spring and autumn, with shops, restaurants, and services remaining open. The summer calendar is packed with events, and the area is a magnet for mountain bikers, road cyclists, walkers, and holidaymakers looking to enjoy the mountains in warmer weather.
Outdoor pursuits such as hiking and trail running have also grown in popularity, with many visitors drawn to the fresh air and cooler but still lovely warm summer temperatures that come with a holiday at altitude.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to a favourite spot, here’s a look at what to expect in Morzine this summer – and what’s new for the season.
On the slopes
New challenges on the downhill
Downhill mountain biking is as central to the identity of Morzine as skiing. New for this summer is the addition of a brand new black trail - Wood Ride. Pluls two alternative lines to Twisty - Legal 1.0 and Legal 2.0. Go give them a try… if you dare.
In the resort
Le Nouveau Tremplin
After a two year renovation, this Morzine institution is now open every day at the bottom of the Pleney, with their 12 individual suites set to become available this summer - ranging in size from two bedrooms to five bed penthouses - each suite has a fully-equipped kitchen, dining area and lounge with views towards the mountains or the village.
Eco-tourism ingrained in Morzine's way of life
Whilst the resort has been awarded the Flocon Vert certification, reflecting the work the Tourist Office and lift companies are committed to, locals are working on an individual level to improve things:
- Hôtel Le Dahu has implemented vermicomposting (the use of worms to make nutrient-rich ‘worm manure’), rainwater recovery, renewable energy use and a kitchen based on ultra-local produce.
- Rental comapny Alikats runs on 100% renewable electricity, offers discounts for guests arriving by train and has chosen to forgo energy-intensive facilities such as hot tubs.
Activities
Hiking in harmony with the patou
Not a new thing for summer, but always one worth mentioning.
If you're one of the many that head here to enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains, chances are you'll come across a patou - large white dogs that are bred as herd protection, living with and looking after the sheep that graze these glorious pastures during the summer months. They act to deter any threat from foxes, wolves and over curious hikers, so do not try to interact with them - keep your distance from them and their flock, stay calm if approached (don't run, shout or wave your arms around - let them sniff you, keep ur bag/coat between you and them), walk away slowly without making eye contact and if you have a dog with you keep it on a very short lead.
Events
You'll find a great range of events through the summer in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz including The Pass'portes du Soleil mountain biking event, Spartan Trifecta, trail running, nature activities and workshops, many activities for children and the Mont Blanc Rally passes through.
More inspiration...
Visit our events calendar page for more information on what's on in Morzine this summer.
