The traditional Alpine village of Les Gets offers a premium level of accommodation in the vast PdS region, with an excellent snow record – grass base, extensive snowmaking, and slopes of all aspects.
We’re here in the village and our team of experienced, local, and bi-lingual speakers are available to help you – we have been operating for over 15 years and know Les Gets inside and out.
My introduction to this magazine is always the very last thing I write, usually just a couple of hours before our print deadline; the introduction you’re reading today is no different. I began work on the 172 pages that follow in the spring of 2023 and this is the largest magazine we’ve ever produced. I share these things not to brag, but in testament to the constant change, improvements and upgrades we see across Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz and the wider valley this winter. There’s never any shortage of new things to share with you.
There’s also no shortage of impressive and inspiring characters in the world of global snow sports. Interviewing the legendary Xavier De Le Roux was a dream come true for the Morzine Source Magazine team, meanwhile Oscar Mandin sat at our dining table at home and told the fascinating story of his freeride career to date. World Snowboard Slopestyle Champion Mia Brookes returns to write her annual diary entry for Morzine Source Magazine readers; she was just 12 years old when we started this feature and she hasn’t changed one bit.
Michael Jäger was also an incredibly interesting character to interview and we’d never have crossed paths with him if it weren’t for our cover artist Dylan Fant’s timely introduction. Michael was there at the very beginning of snowboarding as a sub-culture; the volume of elements he designed for Burton Snowboards over the decades that followed is mindblowing. He breaks the whole thing down for us on page 100.
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Elsewhere you’ll meet the makers crafting beautiful art for display at Maureen’s gallery on the rue du Bourg, we’ll introduce you to the history of Avoriaz and we’ll celebrate 90 years of skiing on Morzine’s Pleney.
Of course the elephant in the room is the ‘snow situation’ that plagued the Winter 22/23 season and gave many local businesses a serious headache (that’s an understatement). There’s no denying the changes we’re seeing in snow coverage across the European Alps, but if you’ve chosen Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz for your winter holiday this year, I’d like to dedicate the pages of this magazine to you. Thanks for joining us, you are so very welcome.
Thanks also to every single advertiser for your contributions to this magazine, it literally wouldn’t be possible without you. And a final thank you to those of you who’ve written beautiful and inspiring words to fill these pages.
As always, you’ll find daily weather and snow updates, restaurant recommendations and other local chat on our Instagram and Facebook pages throughout the winter season. Pop along and say hello!
In the meantime, have a marvellous holiday. Amie - amie@morzinesourcemagazine.com
Working with some of the most talented local writers is always a huge privilege! With thanks to…
Michael Henderson | Nicky Iseard | Mia Brookes | Xavier De Le Rue | Natalie Elvy Élise Blugeon | Kyles Garrett | Gareth Jefferies | Carrie Greer | Steffi Branfield | Tony Soutter
a note on our paper…
We love our paper and we’re proud that it’s sustainably sourced and recyclable. We’re also very proud to support the following organisations…
It’s an exciting time to be a holiday maker in Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz. Never before has there been such a variety of places to stay in our villages and valleys with hotels, apartments and chalets for all group sizes, budgets and requirements. Many of these newly-launched options are inside brand new developments, incorporating everything the modern-day skier needs for the perfect holiday. Others include renovations of traditional local buildings, conceived to respect the local Savoyarde architecture and delivering an authentic trip to the mountains. Whichever option suits you best, we guarantee you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz, both this winter and beyond.
Extensively renovated with incredible interiors by Shep&Kyles Design, and available for the first time this winter. Luxury oozes from every corner of this five-bed chalet from the moment you arrive; spot the enormous wine cave in the entrance hall, catch a glimpse of the private massage room and unpack your ski kit in the beautifully designed boot room. The interiors are bold, cosy and opulent and the views from all angles are stunning. The hot tub is perched to overlook the rooftops of the village while the kitchen is packed with every mod-con you could need. There’s also a separate home office space, parking for four vehicles with two EV charging points and it’s just a two minute walk to the free ski bus stop.
Entirely renovated for this winter season, this incredible 8-person apartment in the heart of Avoriaz’ old quarter features some of the most beautiful interiors we’ve seen so far in the Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort. It’s located on the forth floor of the skiin, ski-out Sosna Residence and includes a cosy, sumptuous living space which opens onto a contemporary kitchen and dining area. Bedrooms are cosy and chic, the apartment is on split levels, and there’s a sunny balcony from which to take in the incredible views.
One of the most unique chalet renovations we’ve seen in a long time, Chalet Sarcleret feels like a classic English country home set in a sublime alpine location. Its six en-suite bedrooms are incredibly chic and unique, while the addition of a six-bed bunk room designed specifically for children is sure to get everyone excited. There’s a cinema room for children to gather in after a hard day on the slopes and an outdoor hot tub, a handy boot room and a large garden that’s perfect for snowball fights. The chalet is located on the outskirts of Morzine and with the help of your AliKats chauffeur, you’ll be loading onto a local ski lift in no time.
Available for the first time this winter, Chalet Tilly occupies a fantastic location with views of Morzine’s Pleney from multiple balconies. Sleeping groups of up to nine people in four en-suite bedrooms, this chalet is light and bright with large windows that take advantage of those incredible views. Arranged over three floors there’s plenty of space for everyone, while the main living area is open plan and includes a fully-equipped kitchen, high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows. It’s just a nine minute walk to the Super Morzine ski lift, and you’ll no doubt enjoy retreating to the outdoor hot tub after a long day on the slopes. Two private parking spaces complete this lovely chalet, which would be perfect for both
It’s exciting when someone breathes new life into an old chalet, and that’s exactly what Tess and Joe have done in Montriond this winter. It’s more of a tiny, boutique hotel than a chalet, where rooms are available to book individually but also include delicious meals and restoring yoga sessions in a dedicated Earth Room too. The spaces inside Fat Fox Lodge are vibrant, cosy and inspired by nature, furnished with antiques to give a characterful, homely feel. Combine the outdoor ice bath with the outdoor hot tub to ease those tired muscles before enjoying a film night on the lodge’s big screen. It is just a 10 minute journey from the slopes of Avoriaz, the sights and sounds of bustling Montriond are almost on the doorstep.
The redevelopment of traditional Savoyarde buildings, when done right, make the perfect authentic holiday accommodation. Apartment Solitaire is an example of such a project and it’s located in Morzine’s old quarter, a short walk from the amenities of the village. This apartment sleeps groups of up to eight, in three en-suite bedrooms and the accommodation is arranged over three floors so there’s more than enough space for everyone. Interiors are contemporary and luxurious and the balconies and floorto-ceiling windows take in the exceptional views. Available on a self-catered basis so the kitchen is fully-equipped, there’s two parking spaces and you’re just a one-minute walk from the free local bus stop.
This brand new chalet ticks every box and is available for the first time this winter season. Chalet Le Pre by More Mountain sleeps groups of up to 14 people in six bedrooms and its location is extra special; within a private estate with a large garden and stunning views over Morzine. It’s also just a 10 minute walk from the centre of the village. Inside you’ll discover contemporary, cosy interiors, large, bright spaces and large, wrap-around balconies from which to soak up the views. There’s a kids chill-out area, a kids bunk room and a load of storage space for all of your ski kit. End the day in the outdoor hot tub with views towards Nyon.
One of the most authentic and characterful Savoyarde chalets in Montriond has been extensively and lovingly renovated to create a duplex, three-bedroom apartment in a stunning location. Available on a self-catered basis and featuring a beautifully designed, open-plan living space with a fully-equipped kitchen and a double aspect balcony offering views over the river and towards Avoriaz. All bedrooms are en-suite and include either Juliette balconies or access to a private garden and terrace. Au Pied d’Hauto sits just 1km from the centre of Montriond village, just a five-minute walk from the local ski bus stop offering quick and easy access to the slopes of the Portes du Soleil via the Ardent Telecabine.
Perched on a plateau in the beautiful village of Essert Romand on the outskirts of Morzine, Chalet Marialys is an owner-run, self-catered chalet with four bedrooms and exceptional views in all directions. The original chalet has been extensively renovated and decorated with a nod to owners Jennie and Paul’s Welsh roots and inside you’ll discover large picture windows with views across the valley in addition to a kitchen that includes all the mod cons you need for a self catered holiday. There’s ample parking outside, the chalet sits just three minutes from the local bus stop and Essert Romand serves up a tranquil, authentic holiday base for those looking for some peace and quiet.
A newly-constructed eco chalet with a stack of sustainability credentials to lessen the impact of your next mountain holiday, Chalet Meuniers by Skiology is located in Montriond, just a stone’s throw from the centre of this beautiful Savoyarde village. It sleeps 12 people (plus two children) in 6 bedrooms, including one large family suite. There’s a hot tub, a separate kids lounge that’s perfect for apres-ski gaming and a private driver service to whisk you to the slopes of Avoriaz and beyond in mere minutes. Available to book on a catered basis with your own chalet hosts to help you plan each day of your holiday.
The Les Gets Four Seasons Alpine Coaster
A strong addition to Les Gets’ approach to four seasons tourism, the brand new alpine coaster in the Perrières sector of the village opened during Summer 23 and became an immediate must-do. You’ll board your two-person kart at the base station in the Perrières car park while nodding at the important but simple safety briefing. Each kart is towed up the steep route before beginning a 714m descent through the trees; we guarantee you’ll be who0ping as you go. Control the speed of the cart using the hydraulic brakes and extend the six-minutelong experience, or go full throttle - the choice is yours. The minimum age for the Four Seasons Alpine Coaster is three years, children below eight years must be accompanied by an adult and each kart is priced at €8 per descent. Warning - this activity is addictive!
are some of our favourites…
Brand new for this winter season, an additional magic carpet has been created at the top of Pleney to help first time skiers and little ones access the beginners zone. Located to the right of the Chalet du Nabor restaurant when you leave the Pleney telecabine, the new 147m magic carpet arrives just above the existing Viking one, helping you to avoid the little uphill trek from the top station to the beginners area. You’ll also discover exciting new modules in everyone’s favourite Penguin Park as well as on
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This autumn here at Morzine Source Magazine we launched a weekly digital magazine called _The_Source_Files, packaged full of updates, news and developments from Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz and our wider valley. We deliver them each Friday, directly to the inboxes of our subscribers. From weather updates to snow reports, from reviews of new local restaurants to the progress of local lift developments, there’s no shortage of useful and interesting information to share with you. Sometimes we even include genuinely useful discounts and kit giveaways too. Subscribing to _The_ Source_Files_ is easy, just scan this QR code and add your details to the list, you’ll receive our next update soon. (We never spam you and we never share your email address with anyone else, just in case that’s not clear!)
AvoKart, the Ultimate Apres Activity
One of the most entertaining additions to the Avoriaz apres scene in a long time, AvoKart gives you the chance to descend the Crot piste between the top of the telecabine and les Prodains in a three-wheeled go-kart. It’s not for the faint of heart, but its exceptionally good fun! The course is 3.2km long, descends 600m in altitude and you’ll go under starters orders once the pistes of Avoriaz have closed for the day; just imagine the views as the sun begins to set! This is an excellent group activity which you can book in advance at skipass-avoriaz. com. Each descent is priced at €25 per person, the route takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to complete and the price includes all the safety equipment you need. Wrap up warm and don’t forget your gloves! AvoKart is reserved for people aged 18 years and over, measuring at least 1.40m and weighing less than 110kg.
book online: skipass-avoriaz.com
The Arare sector of Avoriaz 1800 has a number of enhancements to explore during the Winter 24 season, including the replacement of the Lac-Intrêts chairlift. The old four-seater lift, which began its shift in 1986, has been replaced by a six-seater alternative, increasing the lift’s capacity from 2,400 passengers an hour to 3,000; it’s hoped this will ease the morning congestion around the base of Le Tour lift by offering skiers an alternative area to explore. The new lift whisks skiers and snowboarders to an altitude of 2250m in just five minutes, 40 seconds. Descend on the blue piste for quick and easy access to the Swiss side of the Portes du Soleil via the Chavanette lift.
Deep within the snowy forests above Les Gets, a hot air balloon piloted by a musicmaking travelling salesman has crash landed in a storm. Alta Lumina tells his story with a spell-binding collection of holograms, music and light during a walking tour through the forest at night. This is, without doubt, one of the most impressive, family-friendly activities in our valley and it’s absolutely unmissable during your holiday. As darkness begins to fall, the 1km-long walking trail comes to life with a series of stories and activities for you to enjoy at your own pace. To enjoy Alta Lumina you must book your tickets in advance at altalumina.com, during the winter season visits begin at 6pm and you can take the free bus from the centre of Les Gets to the entry point above the Lac des Ecoles.
book in advance: altalumina.com
Nicole at Mobile Mountain Massage has opened a central-Morzine treatment room ahead of this winter season, which means you can enjoy her relaxing, rejuvenating massage treatments in a cosy, snug room after a hard day on the mountain. A mid-week massage is the best way to get the most from your ski holiday - and your ski legs! You can discover Nicole’s full range of treatments and make a booking on her websitemobilemountainmassage.com
make a booking: mobilemountainmassage.com
The Avoriaz lift operator Serma have added an extra 191 solar panels to their energy system ahead of this winter season; that’s in addition to the panels already installed on the Proclou and Chaux Fleurie lift stations in recent years. With a total surface area of 360m2 and at a cost of €135,000, the modules have been attached to the Serma technical centre on the outskirts of Avoriaz and it’s estimated that they’ll produce 63,600 kwh of electricity per year, alongside a CO2 saving of 3.6 tonnes.
As you’ll discover elsewhere in this magazine, Morzine’s Pleney celebrates it’s 90th birthday this winter. The Pleney telecabine was only the second in France when it first came to life on 15th December 1934 and there’ll be a series of commemorative events this winter season. The Pleney lift company have also published a book charting the decades in the ski area, packed with retrospectives and incredible images. You can buy the French version of the book at the lift pass office in Morzine, or in the Passaquin stationary shop on the route de la Combe a Zorre. English versions of the book are also available to pre-order, head to page 34 for details.
In a further effort to make the development of the Avoriaz ski area a more natural, less invasive operation, the brand new Le Creux de la Neige piste is made entirely from snow accumulation, as opposed to heavy earthworks. The 1.5km long red run spans a total descent of 300m and rests on one of the snowiest parts of the Portes du Soleil, where each winter heavy precipitation creates a natural accumulation phenomenon that’s perfect for a natural piste. The route will be groomed to perfection each night and is sure to be outstanding on one of those famous Avoriaz powder days.
Elsewhere in Avoriaz, you’ll discover that the Tête aux Bœufs piste has been re-profiled to make it more accessible for all, while ten new snow cannons have been installed to guarantee snow coverage on this run throughout the winter season.
This world-famous comedy festival made its inaugural visit to Les Gets for ‘Montreaux Comedy Goes Skiing’ in January 2023 and was an instant success. British comedian Tom Houghton had us howling with laughter inside the Salle de La Colombière in the centre of the village, as did Maisie Adam, Stephen Bailer and Troy Hawke. This years festival takes place between 13th and 20th January with two evenings of top French comedy talent on 16th and 17th January, followed by two nights of English-language lols on 18th and 19th January. Maisie Adam returns as host, accompanied by Lara Ricote and Phil Wang and there’s a long list of stand-up talent appearing a fringe events throughout the village during the week. For the full line up and to reserve tickets head to the website.
tickets and line-up: montreuxcomedygoesskiing.com
No day out in the Portes du Soleil is complete without a ski to Morgins and this winter you’ll discover that the original La Foilleuse three-person chairlift has been replaced by a brand new, high speed telecabine carrying 2400 people per hour to the summit of La Foilleuse at an altitude of 1850m in just 4 minutes 20 seconds. La Foilleuse was the very first detachable chairlift in Switzerland when it was inaugurated in 1983 and its replacement is only the second autonomous telecabine to be constructed in Switzerland.
Pay close attention and you’ll discover that the Swiss side of the Mossettes piste into Les Crosets has been modified for the Winter 24 season. A study by the Swiss Portes du Soleil lift company analysed the gradient, width and ultimately the difficulty rating of this popular piste, used by many travelling from Avoriaz to explore the wider Portes du Soleil each day. Ahead of this winter season it has been softened, the slope gradient reduced and the track widened, making it more accessible for progressing skiers and children and easier to navigate in inclement weather. A careful study of the new Portes du Soleil piste map also shows that the Swiss Mossettes piste has changed from a red piste to a blue.
It’s one of your most frequently asked questions on our social channels - is there a spa? Yes, there is and it’s in the centre of Les Gets. Spa Kinabalu is a contemporary wellbeing space run by highly experienced professionals and featuring some incredible facilities; you’ll never want to leave! As well as the beautiful, private treatment rooms there’s an indoor swimming pool, hammam, sauna and whirlpool in addition to a lengthy treatment menu that includes facials, hot stone massages and body scrubs. It’s easy to check availability and book treatments online.
availability and booking: kalendes.com/site/spakinabalu/
Last winter Avoriaz launched a series of photography installations around the ski area, giving you the opportunity to travel between images on your skis. This year the concept returns with photography by Pierrick Pineau, an amateur photographer with a passion for wildlife photography. Use the Avoriaz Up&Down app to follow the tour, which features nine images printed on large-format panels in different locations around the Avoriaz ski area. Each image is accompanied by a QR code that you can scan to learn more about the wildlife species featured, as well as interesting information about how animals occupy our mountains.
The team at Hotel du Lac on the famous Lac de Montriond have launched Ello Vélo, a brand new road cycling holiday concept for next summer, featuring all you need to plan a bespoke group cycling trip to the Alps. With a capacity for up to 50 riders, the hotel’s team help you plan everything from your airport transfers (with space for your bike, of course) to nutritious pre- and post-ride meals to keep you on the move. The Ello Vélo team can also suggest some of the most prestigious local climbs, many of which have featured on Le Tour de France in recent years. If you need a guide, they’ve got you covered, if you need ride assistance en-route, they’ve got you covered. There’s even a handy massage room at the hotel for post-ride rejuvenation and there’s stacks of secure bike storage too. You’ll find more details about Ello Vélo’s Summer 24 road cycling tours online.
discover more: ello-velo.com
If you’ve made the unfortunately discovery that your ski clothes likely don’t have another winter season in them, yet you’re dreading buying all those expensive replacements, fear not; equipment rental company Crevasse Clothing have got you covered. Crevasse provide a unique and efficient clothing rental service that is really simple to navigate. On their website you’ll select your holiday dates and the kit you’d like to rent, ranging from jackets, ski pants, goggles and gloves. Crevasse then send your order approximately two weeks before your ski holiday. As a guide, full adult kits are available from just £79, while children’s rental sets begin at £65.
rent online: crevasseclothing.com
Concluding his second season as Head Chef at Chalet Fourmiliere in Morzine, Ben Aubert has created an exceptional week of gourmet treats for chalet guests to enjoy during the final week of the season. Spaces are available to book on a short break or full week basis with arrival on Saturday 6th April 2024. Expect afternoon skills workshops, including sessions on creating sauces and jus in cooking, in addition to multi-course themed tasting evenings, complete with wine pairings. Before arriving in Morzine, Ben worked alongside his good friend Nicolas Bottero in his Michelin-starred restaurant Le Mas Bottero in Provence so we can expect some very exquisite influences on display to conclude the winter season in style. To check availability and reserve your stay visit the Chalet Fourmiliere website.
book online: chaletfourmiliere.com
This winter local ski school Easy 2 Ride expand the variety and capacity of their lessons with a brand new base in Avoriaz. Their team includes experienced, professional, multi-language ski and snowboard instructors, including X Games winner Xavier Bertoni, who’ll be teaching freestyle this winter. Also returning to the team is the famous snowshoe guide Rudhy; he’s been delighting visitors to the mountains with his walks through the Avoriaz wilderness for over 30 years! You’ll find the Easy 2 Ride booking office at 17, Place Centrale in Avoriaz this winter, pop in to discover group lessons, private sessions or just for a chat with their friendly team!
lesson availability: avoriazski.fr
In addition to stocking “Adventures on Pleney”, the celebratory book chronicling 90 years on Morzine’s Pleney, the Passaquin book and stationary shop in the centre of Morzine have also launched an ‘English corner’; a collection of English-language books including romantic fiction, political novels and biographies. On the shelves you’ll find ‘The Ski Trip’, a thriller by Sarah Clarke based in Morzine and featuring many locations and local faces that you’ll surely recognise. Other titles currently in stock include ‘Beyond Possible’ by the incredible Nims in addition to mountaineering guides and more. You’ll find Library Passaquin on the Route de la Combe à Zore in the centre of the village.
The shapers of the Arare snowpark in Avoriaz have been experimenting with various new designs and elements in recent winters, ahead of a new launch this winter. The Arare park has played host to several high profile competitions over the years and this winter you’ll discover a brand new border cross course, a small half pipe and newly-designed freestyle lines. All of this will come to life in January, once enough snow has accumulated.
In addition to his incredible ski joering activities up on the trails beyond the Super Morzine (if you haven’t tried that, you absolutely should), Philippe and his beautiful horses are now available to enjoy on our valley floor, all year round. From the equestrian centre in the Parc des Dereches in Morzine, Philippe hosts guided adventures in small groups lasting either one hour, two hours or half days. Exploring our valley on horseback is a unique and energising alternative to skiing all day, every day, plus you’ll get to see much further afield than the village centre. Join Philippe on a group outing, or book your own private session.
bookings:
+33 (0)6 86 07 31 32 philippe.canteux@hotmail.fr
by michael Henderson
Many a modern-day snowboarder cites Frenchman Xavier de Le Rue as their inspiration. He’s a big mountain legend, four-time world bordercross champion and three-time Freeride World Tour champion. He’s also a husband, father to three daughters and he takes his summer sports just as seriously as his winter ones. Yet winter couldn’t seem further away when I speak to Xavier on the hottest day of the year.
“OVER THE LAST TWO DECADES, THERE’S LESS AND LESS EXPLORATION, LESS TRYING NEW THINGS,
GOING CRAZY, INNOVATING”
Xavier is at home in Verbier and I’m keen to know why and when he made the Swiss resort his home. “I moved away from the Pyrenees when I was 18 years old, I moved to Annecy to go to sports school for three years. I started my career as a snowboarder and I was really drawn by the mountains of Chamonix; I lived there for five years and it was amazing, I learnt so much. It was an awakening for me to be up there, to see what’s going on in the big mountains and to massively broaden my perspective. And then eventually I had my daughter Mila with my first wife; she lived in Verbier and I was looking for a place that would be a bit more mellow to live in. Anyone who’s ever lived in Chamonix will understand me.”
At the Swatch Nines mountain bike event this summer, Xavier commented that the mountain bike community of current times reminds him of the snowboarding community of old. I wonder how, in his view, snowboarding has changed since the ‘good old days’ - they’re his words, not mine!
“There was a time when the sport of snowboarding was growing and everyone was super excited about it and yet there was still so much to discover. It was also a time when being a pro athlete meant exploring new dimensions. Then snowboarding really kind of professionalised itself, and that’s how I see the mountain bike community changing. In snowboarding over the last two decades, there’s less and less exploration, less trying new things, going crazy, innovating. Snowboarding has been promoted a lot in recent times, now it’s more about work, pathways, setting and reaching certain goals. So that’s changed the sport dramatically. The big established circus that is the Olympics has helped put all of these pathways in place, there’s now a very structured environment for kids from the get go, I think you can see that. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, most of the strong riders these days have gone through the competition ranks, it’s given them a base to get strong. But it’s at this point that your mindset becomes regimented, and for me, >>
I think that has consequences on creativity later on. At the same time it’s true that you need to be a lot more of an athlete these days; certainly more than we used to be.”
“Going back to freestyle mountain biking, everyone is super well connected in the community, boys and girls share tricks, there’s no jealously, they move as a pack and everyone supports each other. There are lots of strong styles and it’s pretty fucking cool to see.”
Xavier competed for France at two Winter Olympics as it happens, in both 2006 and 2010. But I’d argue that it was at the Freeride World Tour in 2008 that we all started paying attention.
“It was a love affair with snowboarding from the beginning, without even dreaming of being a professional. When I was a kid, maybe 13, 14, 15 years old in the Pyrenees, seeing snowboarding and being attracted by the mountains around me. I’d look up at the lines on the mountains and wonder how I could get up there. It felt very obvious to me from the beginning that adventuring was very much part of me. It was the same for my Uncle, but he’d passed away before I was born so I assumed he’d left this for me in my genes. I started climbing on my own in Annecy; I knew nothing, but accessing the mountains the hard way started there.”
A scroll through Xaviers Insta grid gives you some insight into the number of different mountain sports he enjoys. He speed rides, he wakeboards, he mountain bikes. He paraglides, he rock climbs, he kite boards. I’m barely scratching the surface here and we chat about the size of his man cave; all that kit needs a serious volume of space.
“My thing is not to be specialised in something, I always needed to try new things and exploration is one of them. Using para-motors to get to lines in Antarctica for example. Using a sail boat to get somewhere no one has ever ridden before. It’s a journey of trying new things, otherwise I get bored. I need to add a spice always.”
“It’s not that I’m looking for an adrenaline rush, but all of these tools are ways to access nature, to conquer the elements - the wind, the rock, the snow, the high alpines, the low alpines, the coastal ranges, all these things that give you an option to test yourself in nature. For me, it’s the end goal, doing something cool. I don’t like the word ‘mastering’, but trying to embrace, play, be accepted by the mountains. All these sports, you start off shit but you learn a lot every time you do them. The status of being ‘really good' at something is great, but it’s much more fun, for me, to be in the learning curve. I know it’s not like that for everyone, I know some people love to be on top of their game, but I like to be learning.”
Whilst most of us avoid the ice patches on the piste like the plague, while many of us rush to get first lifts on a power day, Xavier has an unhealthy love of riding ice. >>
“IT WAS A LOVE AFFAIR WITH SNOWBOARDING FROM THE BEGINNING, WITHOUT EVEN DREAMING OF BEING A PROFESSIONAL.”
“All these ice rides are what made me stand out as a snowboarder; they really helped me build my profile in a way. That was never really the goal, but that was my different angle in snowboarding. I remember when I first started riding ice, it was after I’d been taken by this huge avalanche and it was a pretty nasty season, it was super dry and I went up one day to this glacier with a bunch of guys and I saw this ice line. Normally, as a steep snowboarder or a mountaineer snowboarder, you’d avoid that as much as possible, because any time you go close to it, you’d have to rappel down. But I saw this spot and I thought ‘that’s super straightline-able’ and from doing that it allowed me to transfer a danger into a feature, something I was looking for; new lines became possible. It was also great to hang out around ice, which is hard to control in the high alpines. Like, you can’t believe how much, when you put your edge on the ice, it just doesn’t stick at all. Face the bull, it’s nice to do."
In 2008 Xavier was knocked unconscious by an enormous avalanche while filming in Switzerland. He was buried for 10 minutes and there’s an iconically scary image of him recovering in hospital with bloodshot eyes that lasted for over a month. Miraculously, his only other injury, after being carried 2km by the avalanche, was a torn ligament in his knee.
“That was, in a way, the best lesson that could ever happen to me. After that I was super scared - and I’m still super scared about avalanches. My first reaction when I woke up at the hospital was ‘I’m fucking stupid, why would I play with death like that’. And I was in hospital for a bit, then it was summer so I really had time to question and to realise that I needed to find a way to be more sustainable with my risks. These days I’m more drawn to maritime destinations, near the sea where the risks are more stable. Late season riding, when the steep skiing is easier to handle, that’s cool too. But the winters now are so freaking scary, even in resort. On a powder day when everyone goes out into 50cm of fresh and like, it’s terrifying for me. So this hesitancy is something left over from the avalanche, for sure. I’ve been trying to use the fear as a tool and every time, you know as a free rider when you’re about to drop in, I’m asking ‘should I drop in or not?’ OK the signs are this, my heart tells me this, and the information is telling me this, but do I drop in or not? It’s a question I ask myself every time I’m at the top of a line and it’s so freaking hard to step back. For me, having had that image in my head of me being pretty much dead… not today. I’ve turned back a lot, I’ve been more anal about my line choice, not trying to be out there all the time. A few years down the line, I’ve turned back many times. I’ve still made good lines, ones that I’m more than satisfied with. I’m more comfortable with these choices now, especially being a father.”
“I was 26 when my first daughter arrived. I was still young and being a father to Mila did affect me, it did slow me down maybe a bit. >>
“IF YOU ONLY DO HELI-DROPS, THEN YOU END UP GOING TO THE SAME PLACE OVER AND OVER AGAIN. ONCE YOU’VE BEEN A FEW YEARS IN A ROW TO THESE PLACES, IT’S JUST THE SAME. EVENTUALLY IT BECOMES BORING.”
But now with Margot (4) and Lilly (2), for sure it affects me even more. As the fathers out there will understand, if you still manage to get out there, carry on a rhythm of being in those kinds of sports, I think it’s fine, it’s enough. And for sure you don’t want to do anything stupid, but you still want to send it, it’s still important. Pushing my limits, taking some risks, but if anything terrible happened I would hate myself for my daughters. So I try to be good. As for them, they’re constantly crashing their bikes, climbing everywhere and they have this spirit. This is who we are and we transmit this to our kids.” Xavier’s daughter Mila followed in his footsteps, making her debut on the Junior Freeride World Tour in 2019, at just 13 years old. She’s racking up wins across the freeride world these days and I wonder what that’s like to spectate?
“When Mila was like six, seven or eight years old, and the Junior FWT was just starting in Verbier, they were encouraging kids to get involved, and I was like, ‘no, I really don’t like that’. I had the feeling that you couldn’t teach freeriding to kids, they would for sure go off on their own and take stupid decisions. And then eventually I started riding with Mila and I gained confidence in her and she joined the group. I could see when I was riding with her that she’d keep her head together, she’d wait there, she’d traverse here, she’d do it without freaking out and it gave me confidence in her from an early age. Then in the Junior FWT team it really made them good freeriders but if there was any danger at all, they’d go and build a jump to play on instead. They’re so established and good and wise around the risk now, way more than I ever was. So the Junior FWT has been a good life and a good sports platform for Mila. So now, watching her in comps, I know the mindset she has, how she’s in control, how she makes the decisions and I’m not scared for her at all. I’m nervous when it’s a competition and she could hurt herself, but she’s never stupid. She’s not crazy in that sense.”
Xavier was a pioneer of the split board, tearing down the boundaries of accessibility and encouraging us to take a more self-propelled route into the mountains. But that wasn’t always the case. Many of his first freeride films feature A LOT of heli-drops. Was it this pivot in focus a conscious change?
“At a certain stage in my career that was all about video parts - like, that was the model for a professional snowboarder from the late 90s, early 2000s. It was typical to take a helicopter, practice, film some action. Then we realised that actually, the most interesting elements aren’t the riding; it’s everything that goes around it. The riding, after a while, you’ve seen it all, it doesn’t change so much. But all of the times you have to turn back, or travel somewhere and find a way to get there, to rappel, a cornice breaking, these things are much more interesting. So we started making our own films and people liked it so I think it was really nice to show the split boarding that went around it.”
“I’M NOT COMFORTABLE BEING THE POSTER BOY FOR SUSTAINABILITY, IT’S A BRAVE STANCE.”
“At the same time, if you only do heli-drops, then you end up going to the same place over and over again. Once you’ve been a few years in a row to these places, it’s just the same. Eventually it becomes boring. We started mixing the two together, getting dropped then split boarding. Also heli-drops look cool, but they’re freaking exhausting. So stressful. There’s no acclimatisation to the altitude either. There’s also lots of money involved, lots of crew to get the shots, lots of noise. It’s so stressful.”
In a life of memorable moments, I imagine it’ll be hard for Xavier to answer my next question. Which adventure has been the best so far? “Antarctica in 2012 for sure. This was my dream trip. We went there and we took the most incredible journey. The spot was beautiful and extra special because of the fact that no one in the snowboarding world had ever been there. It was a big question mark, the intensity of the location and on the way home the whole team agreed that we’d never find a place like this again. But we’re going to try, because this year I’m going back there with my brother Victor and my daughter Mila. I’m 44 now and I’m a lot more laid back and I’m not constantly searching, but having my family with me will be next level. Also, there’s been such an evolution in filming techniques and I’ve got an amazing crew for this trip. I haven’t done any big movies for a while so I’m very very excited for this one.”
In recent years Xavier has released a series of video tutorials called the How To Series. The idea here is to use his 22 years of snowboarding to pass on useful tips and tricks learned along the way. Episodes vary from how to use your avalanche transceiver correctly, how to drop cliffs and how to camp on snow.
“Five or six years ago I felt redundant; all the movies had the same feeling and the interviews were always the same. OK, I was going to this location where no one had been before and we rode this line and faced the elements, and this this this, always the same. And voila, same sorry. Egotistic and redundant. At the same time I could see how Mila was digesting social media content and I needed to do stuff that was useful, this is why I started the How To Series. They’re my alternative to just another hero movie that just disappears. But with my new Antarctica movie, it’s a middle ground. There’s a sustainability element, a family story.”
The mention of sustainability neatly rounds off my list of questions for Xavier. The heli-drops are gone, but it feels like every snow sports movie must have a sustainability message
“I’m not comfortable being the poster boy for sustainability, it’s a brave stance. I didn’t jump on the band wagon. Instead I created a short video series called the Sustainability Dialogues and I learnt so much from these. Knowing what’s going on makes it easier to make efforts and that’s something I wanted to share. Five or six years later, people understand the challenge we’re facing and I haven’t done more heli movies. I travel less, I’ve made lots of changes in my daily life. Obviously I’m still carbon bound. I’ve tried to speak about it, now I’m in between two waters. Antartica will be interesting.”
Orderly queues formed and there was an atmosphere of tremendous excitement on the morning of 15th December 1934. Morzine’s first ski lift - only the second in France - was about to turn for the very first time. Tourists had been flocking to this most perfect holiday destination since the early 1920s, when Francois Baud built the first hotel in the village.
The Grand Hotel, as it was, still stands in place today. The village had become popular with hikers during the summer seasons, but with the creation of the first ski piste behind the Grand Hotel shortly after its opening, came a whole new idea… could Morzine become one of the first ski resorts in France? Yes it could.
This winter, to celebrate ninety years of skiing in Morzine, SA téléphérique de Morzine Pleney - the company charged with the operation of our ski area - have published a beautiful coffee table book charting the decades that followed. ‘One Montagne, one Village - Adventures on Pleney from 1934 until today’ is available to buy in French from the Pleney lift pass office in Morzine, at various bookshops in the region and also online. Pre-orders are being taken for an English-language version of the book which will be printed when there are sufficient orders. Tap the QR code on page 34 of this magazine for more details and to order your book, which is priced at €19 with postage also available.
Slate mining was the premier industry in Morzine long before the tourists arrived. Over 200 miners worked in the mines you can still see them today along the Ardoisiere valley en-route to Prodains and high above Lac de Montriond. The slate extracted from the mines was transported down the valley to Thonon, Thones and Taninges, returning vast riches for a village previously occupied with farming.
As it happens, mining slate provided Morzine’s inhabitants with more leisure time than farming once had and in 1910 the Morzine Ski Club was founded. The club brought together locals - and some visitors - who enjoyed walking up mountains, sometimes for several hours, to take advantage of deep snowfalls using the most rudimentary equipment.
Francois Baud was a local businessman and his construction of The Grand Hotel in the centre of the village in 1925 became the catalyst for tourism in Morzine. So significant was this development in the history of the town, the footbridge across the valley, built in 1952, still bears his name. During the decade, Morzine was mainly involved in summer tourism, with ramblers flocking to the village in search of clean, fresh air and stunning views. Just one piste existed at this time, on the Route de la Plagne. Imagine!
There was capacity for just 25 skiers on the new Pleney telecabine when it opened in December 1934. With skis mounted on the outside during that first ascent, passengers discover pristine, un-pisted snow at the top. The technology involved in shaping skis was just beginning to develop and the sport became a leisure pursuit for the wealthy - an entire industry was born. At this time Morzine had grown to include 15 hotels, five guesthouses and 60 rental chalets offering 850 guest beds in total. Meanwhile, over in Les Gets, 1937 saw the inauguration of the Boule de Gomme drag lift. Still in service today, this lift is the oldest in the entire Portes du Soleil!
With the arrival of World War 2 in September 1939, the development of tourism in Morzine ground to a halt. The village - in fact the whole region - was under Nazi occupation, with local resistance fighters using secret routes over the Col de Cou and into Switzerland to smuggle weapons and goods across the border. Many Jewish people also used these routes to evade the Nazis and find safe passage into Switzerland. When the war ended in September 1945, the expansion of Morzine as a tourist town became a priority.
So successful was tourism on the Pleney during the early 1950s, a second ski lift company was formed to build another ski lift, this time on the opposite side of the valley. The original SuperMorzine lift came to life in 1953 and although Avoriaz was just a twinkle in the eye of Jean Vuarnet at this time, it gave access to the snow fields high above the rooftops of Morzine. Unfortunately the original ski lift, which featured 94 two-seater cabins, was destroyed by a fire in 1964.
Ski tourism was now a big deal in the French Alps and Morzine was at the heart of it all. The Nyon cable car was both built and inaugurated in 1960, transporting 35 skiers at a time to an entirely new part of the ski area. The 80-person Prodains cable car linked Morzine to Avoriaz and came to life in 1961. As you’ll discover on page 40 of this magazine, French Olympic skier Jean Vuarnet both conceptualised and created Avoriaz and the resort continues to be groundbreaking today.
Having gathered pace over the preceding decades, ski tourism spread across the Alps during the 1970s. No longer a pursuit exclusively for the rich, purpose-built mountain resorts were developed, catering for tourists as skiing became mass market. High rise hotels popped up in traditional alpine villages, roads were expanded and car parks created. Morzine pushed back, keen to retain the charm, character and authenticity that was so deeply rooted in the village. It's for this reason that you’ll continue to see chalets and buildings inspired by 60’s and 70’s architecture around the village today.
In 1981 the International Association of the Portes du Soleil was born. A world first, it created one ski area spanning two different countries with a variety of terrain for every type of skier. Avoriaz became a pioneer in the development of snowboarding culture in Europe, creating the worlds first natural snowpark.
Mass market tour operators made ski holidays more affordable and British families began flocking to resorts across the French Alps. As the entire industry snowballed and prospered, Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz were always at the forefront of adaptation, creating new events and activities for all, while respecting and preserving the authentic Savoyarde life of the village. In 2008, Avoriaz collaborated with Burton Snowboards creating 'the stash' cementing it's place in freestyle history. How we continue to manage our villages for the mountain-goers of the future is now a priority for everyone.
Expectations were high when our mighty Penguins took to the ice for the first time last season. Newly promoted into France’s D1 national hockey league after an exceptional 21/22 season, surely the superb performances would continue? Unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be; the team experienced some significant losses and their first season in the D1 league concluded with disappointment all round.
But it’s all change for the 23/24 season at the Morzine-Avoriaz Hockey Club, beginning with the arrival of British national team player Matthew Myers. Joining the Penguins from the Nottingham Panthers, Matthew has also played for top British teams including the Cardiff Devils and the Sheffield Steelers, in addition to time served in the American Hockey League. The club have also appointed a new head coach in Anthony Mortas, who joins the Penguins from Ligue Magnus team Amiens with hopes of catapulting Morzine-Avoriaz into France’s premier ice hockey league in due course. But for now, let’s meet Matthew.
Welcome to Morzine! What are your first impressions of our village?
“I love it! I came here maybe 15 or 16 years ago with my Nottingham Panthers club and we played some exhibition games here - I loved it then and I love it now. I was only here for a week or two, so I didn’t really get to explore as I’m getting the opportunity to do now. But since I arrived last week with my wife, we’ve already been to Lac de Montriond several times, Avoriaz, Thonon. There are so many different places to explore from Morzine, it’s amazing. Plus, our apartment looks over the town, with the ski lifts in one direction and the mountains in the other. My wife and I both work online
- she owns an online tutoring business for children and I run a Cardiff-based building company with my dad and brotherand we both get to do these jobs from the Alps. It’s great!
Everyone we’ve met in the village since we arrived has been super friendly. I spent time learning to speak French before we arrived and I’m sure my progress will continue as the team comes together. The team at the club have also been really great at helping us get set up (with the internet for example!) before we arrived. My first impression is that everyone here at the hockey club is super passionate about playing and the forthcoming season.”
How did you make the transfer from Nottingham to Morzine?
“My wife and I had the idea to move to France during COVID. We were on the verge of buying a house we’d never even seen in the Dordogne. It looked amazing and we were really excited, but then we realised… that’s a crazy thing to do. Still, having holidayed a few times in France over the years, the idea stayed with us. So I asked my agent to find me a team somewhere in France - ideally in the mountains if possible. I’d played for 18 or 19 years in the UK and I felt it was time to experience somewhere different. From there the deal was made and coming to Morzine was a no-brainer for me. We’d been here for one week and my wife was already saying ‘we need to find a way to stay here!’”
Are you excited to get started with the team?
“Our training camp is already underway and the pre-season exhibition games are coming up. As much as I love hockey and practise and training with the team, the games are what I’m here for. It’s the same for all the guys and this is what people come to watch at the end of the day. The crowd often don’t realise that we get a lot of energy from the noise in an ice rink. Those who gather to support us can really help determine the results of a match, especially if you’re behind in the scores.”
How did your career as an ice hockey player begin?
“I’d always wanted to be a rugby player actually, but at the age of 14 or 15 I ndidn't make one of the district teams. I got pissed off and stopped playing. Twelve months later I signed for the Cardiff Devils and I’ve never looked back! I love that the Morzine-Avoriaz team has a strong junior and youth team too. My advice to any kids starting their ice hockey career is to listen to your coaches and work hard - both on and off the rink. Make sure you get your education, because even if you become a professional ice hockey player, or a professional in a different sport, it’s a very short career. You’ll need something else to do afterwards. Don’t just live for your sport.”
What’s your daily routine?
“My wife and I get up at 6am, we’ll read for 20 minutes or so and do a bit of yoga before starting work. We like to get a bit ahead of the UK workwise so we can enjoy our days the mountains and get out there to explore. Practise times at the club vary; sometimes they’re at 8am, sometimes later in the day and often in the evening and usually last for an hour or so with 40 minutes in the gym after each session. It’s nice to mix things up and get the most from each day.”
In your view, why should people come to watch an ice hockey match?
“Whether you’re into hockey or not, it’s a really good night out. The game is always fast, physical, it’s exciting and different. Everyone likes to do something different during their holiday and we’ve got a wicked team of players here. The venue at the Skoda Arena is quite small, so the atmosphere is loud and fantastic. It’s a really enjoyable evening, especially when we win! We’re trying to play high tempo, energetic ice hockey here this year so this will be something fun to do especially after a day on the slopes and a bite to eat. Come and watch the hockey for a couple of hours, it's a really fun way to round off the day.”
What are the team’s objectives for this season?
“We’re setting out our goals right now, but I know from talking to the coach over the summer, that this team had a bit of a difficult season last year. They stayed in the D1, which is good, but this year we have Anthony, he’s come from Amiens, which is in the Magnus League, France’s top division. Anthony brings some additional professionalism and top-flight experience to the team. His initial goal is to start off by winning some games, to get out of the bottom part of the table early season, with a view to realistically - and we’re not saying we’ll win the league this year - but we need to be out of the play downs and head to 1-8 spot for the play offs. The stadium and facilities here are typical of a team in the Magnus League so I’m sure we can do it.”
What are you most looking forward to this season? On and off the rink.
“I’m really looking forward to enjoying the new experience of living in France, learning French and living a French lifestyle. We’re also enjoying meeting new people and making new friends in a different place. In terms of activities, neither of us have skied since we met 20 years ago! And while I know it’s part of the local lifestyle, I won’t ski this winter in case I get injured. From a hockey perspective, I want to play well, enjoy the games and hopefully help the team improve on last year. Our first target is to start winning games.”
Discover more:
Fourteen teams will play in the French D1 national league this winter, with the season running from 7th October 2023 until 9th March 2024. The top eight teams in the league then take their place in a series of playoff matches. Home games are hosted inside the Skoda Arena, which you’ll find directly below the Super Morzine bridge in the centre of Morzine. You’ll find a seasonal match schedule on our website and also at hockey-morzine.com where you can also buy your tickets in advance.
The Pleney celebrates its 90th anniversary ! For this special event pre-order the book by flashing this QR code.
Nicola Iseard Fall Line Skiing magazine Publisher and Editor
Rossignol Essential ski
RRP €820.00 rossignol.com
Let us introduce you to The World's First Recyclable Ski! Thanks to Rossignol working with a recycling specialist, we are entering a new era of sustainability in ski design. While there are many eco-conscious efforts in the ski industry (from some manufacturers using clean energy to power their factories, to others using non-toxic glues to bond ski layers), it is French brand Rossi that has made the leap into the 'recyclability' of the skis themselves. After 10 years of development, they've created a ski that is almost fully recyclable, at a whopping seven to eight times more recyclable than a traditional alpine ski. "Yes, but how does it ski?" I hear you cry. Well, we can report that it absolutely shreds. With a similar sidecut to Rossignol's Hero skis and with a powerful Ti damped flex, the 69cm-underfoot Essential pumps out short/medium-sized carves with relish. This is not a ski for skidding around on with your head in the clouds – this is a proper ski that wants to be ridden. We think the wood topsheet looks ace, too.
RRP €700.00 thenorthface.com
The North Face showing clear freeriding intentions for this jacket by naming it the 'Verbier' edition. Part of their top-tier Summit range, the jacket is a three-layer shell, with total weather protection thanks to its seam-sealed Gore® membrane. A couple of the other Summit-range jackets, in order to remain as minimalist and sleek as possible, don't sport a powder skirt. This Verbier edition does. We think a pow skirt is a welcome addition for top-level riders and powder novices alike. Another clue that The North Face wants you to find the deepest snow possible are the thumb-loops at the cuffs, which are also not included on other Summit models. We're fans of the two extra-roomy front pockets, easily accessible even while wearing a backpack, which provide loads of useful space for a sandwich or skins.
The BOA lace system seems to be cropping up everywhere at the moment. I checked their website and it seems you can even buy BOAlaced golf shoes! Clearly the idea has gained some traction, as people look for a more secure, comfortable fit than laces or buckles. BOA has been available on many ski touring boots (and snowboard boots) for years, but not for alpine skiing. Until now – enter the new H+i1 dial and cable. Available on K2's Anthem boot (women's), Recon boot (men's) and Mindbender boots (women's/men's), the system is incredibly robust, beautifully wrapping the shell around your foot, without undue pressure hot spots some people experience using a traditional buckle closure. As for the durability, K2 says the BOA wheels have been impact-tested for all types of skiing so durability should be as good as buckles. An interesting option for those looking for another degree of comfort and simplicity. Check out the BOA models also on offer from Fischer, Salomon and Atomic.
We think Shred's new Gratify – I know, we wanted to say Gravity too! – looks awesome. That's what matters most with goggles really, isn't it?! The frameless lens design is the perfect size, and the lens colour (check out that Ice/Deep Blue) and strap colour options all look super modern, suiting everyone from racers to freestylers. Of course, Ted Ligety, being one of the former group and co-founder of Shred, is mega excited that they are releasing a load of new tech along with the new shape: "The performance and testing of Gratify has exceeded our expectations…" declares Sir Shred. Besides the Contrast Boosting Lens 2.0 they've added NoDistortion tech, aimed to provide crystal clear vision during altitude changes (which sounds very sophisticated), and NoClog Hydrophobic treatment on vents to reduce, er, clogging and help prevent fogging. Shred, has also been working on how to be more sustainable for a while, being one of the first to remove plastic packaging from their products. We approve!
giro.com
We love it when manufacturers design a product that has loads of clever tech but remains discreet. Enter the Giro Owen. Despite having excellent temperature regulation, thanks to an adjustable venting system, the Owen has very few visible vents to speak of. It retains a low-profile look, that won't get full of snow but keeps your noggin' warm and dry. One of the few vents it has, in fact, is a new Stack venting system that is designed to help remove the hot air coming off the top of your goggles to prevent them fogging up – nifty. The Owen still incorporates the super-advanced MIPS system to reduce rotational impacts on your brain. Giro's Form Fit system has also been updated, this being version 2 (and we liked the first version a lot already!). This one gets a massive 6cm of adjustment with a slimmer system that is less likely to catch on your jacket collar. Last, and not least, it gets our favourite buckle, the Fidlock. Believe me – if you haven't worn a helmet with it before, you have to try it. You can operate it with one hand (gloved!), but it will never pinch your skin and is super-secure.
The Summit Series Verbier bib is an excellent piece of ski apparel engineering. The designers have ensured the bib portion above the waist is high enough to keep wind and snow at bay, but not high enough to restrict any movement. The elastane material means that it's soft to touch, easy to stretch when bootpacking for that next tasty line, and best of all, highly breathable. We especially like the braces that The North Face has kindly made so sleek as to go unnoticed – no uncomfortable buckles under the backpack straps here! To complement the breathable Gore-Tex fabric, the bib has multiple venting zips, creating what The North Face has labelled 'Chimney Venting'™ should you really need to dump some heat fast.
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You might imagine that, as a purpose built resort constructed to serve the modern day skier, there might not be much in the way of history or heritage on offer in Avoriaz. Think again. The Place des Dromonts is known as ‘old Avoriaz’ and it’s worth paying attention the next time you whizz through on your skis.
Avoriaz came to life in 1962, two years after its founder Jean Vuarnet returned from the Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley, California with a gold medal. Jean grew up in Morzine and regularly hiked on the peaks of Chavanette and the Hauts Forts. Squaw Valley had inspired him to transform the summer grazing plateau high above his hometown into a purposebuilt ski resort. He imagined an entirely new, pedestrianised resort concept, the likes of which had never been seen in the Alps, neither
then or indeed today. Joining forces with Pierre & Vacances founder Gerard Bremond, Jean hired the young, groundbreaking architects Jacques Labro, Jena Jacques Orzoni and JeanMarc Roques to conceptualise an architectural style for Avoriaz; we still see this in every single Avoriaz building today.
The Hôtel des Dromonts was the first building in Avoriaz to open its doors to guests, just in time for Christmas in 1966. Architect Jacques
Labro sets the Avoriaz tone perfectly here, with his quirky, angular, pyramid-esque style and a facade of red cedar shingle. The architecture was a blueprint for the buildings that followed and the hotel has since become an official historical landmark.
The resort grew in popularity and notoriety between 1973 and 1999 when it played host to the Avoriaz Fantastique Film Festival. Also known as ‘Saint Tropez de Neige’ and ‘Cannes
on Snow’, photographers lined the slopes of the Place des Dromonts, scouting for movie stars including Brigitte Bardot, singer Johnny Halliday and director Steven Spielberg.
The modern day Place des Dromonts consists of four different residences; the hotel in addition to holiday accommodation within the Hauts Forts, Sequoia and Mélèzes residences. The vintage atmosphere is also on display within the recently renovated Le Roc, which is home to a bowling and gaming area, restaurant and late night bar. The three individual chalets positioned above Le Roc have also been extensively renovated to create luxurious, contemporary holiday accommodation with the Avoriaz architectural DNA running throughout.
Thomas Arneodo was one of the first children to live yearround in Avoriaz and offers us a fascinating insight into growing up in the Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort.
What was it like living year-round in Avoriaz when you were a child?
It was an extraordinary experience. The pedestrian resort provided a safe environment, as children we could play and
explore the mountain freely. At that time, we were just a few families with a few children, which allowed us to grow up in a safe environment and the mountains were our daily playground - we had an almost endless garden! Today, several of us who grew up in the resort are still here, which is testament to the deep attachment we all have for Avoriaz, despite its changes over the years. I remember with nostalgia the epic evenings spent in the bowling alley as a teenager, and this is partly what encouraged me to give it a second lease of life by renovating it recently in order to be able to offer future generations the same experiences. Our 37 bedrooms are also available during the winter and summer seasons for short breaks, groups and family holidays.
How have you seen the station evolve over the years?
There’s been an impressive transformation of the resort since I returned to live here in 2010. Avoriaz has evolved while preserving its unique charm and architecture. There’s been a move upmarket and this has been remarkable, particularly since the addition of the Amara district in 2013. Also our complete renovation of the Kouria residence has brought an exceptional level of comfort and sophistication to the resort. More recently, the newly-built Chalet Aspen has been an iconic project; it has pushed the boundaries of luxury and aesthetics while integrating harmoniously into the environment. I am proud to be able to participate day after day in the renewal of the resort, while being deeply attached to its authenticity.
To what extent is it important for Avoriaz to preserve its architectural style and spirit?
It is essential! Succeeding in combining modernity and tradition is a key path and I hope to participate in this evolution in urban planning which optimises space, as with the Chalets des Hauts Forts for example. The future of the resort depends on our ability to adapt to today's demands without ignoring our fundamentals. Our projects at the Place des Dromonts demonstrate the ability of Avoriaz to evolve while preserving its unique character. The designers of our Le Roc project
for example, and the chalets on its roof terrace, succeeded in pushing the traditional limits of Avoriaz architecture, while offering a new living experience to residents. Avoriaz offers the quintessential mountain experience and its architectural uniqueness is an integral part of its appeal, as is its unparalleled commitment to pedestrianisation.
What changes do you think the future will bring?
The future of Avoriaz looks promising. We are in the process of developing a mountain offering that goes beyond the winter season to allow visitors and resort stakeholders to enjoy it all year round. In addition, our group is actively involved in local life by contributing to the housing of workers, whether seasonal or yearround, by offering rental accommodation during
the off-season periods and by maintaining the bowling alley, which is now open all year round with an adapted catering service. These initiatives aim to energise the resort and retain talent in our teams by offering them a pleasant living environment.
What do you most enjoy in Avoriaz?
The resort has a human side and a family atmosphere, but it also offers a multitude of services and access to one of the largest ski areas in Europe. We have a variety of shops and services for all budgets here in Avoriaz. Inside the same residences we see a mix of nationalities and social categories, it doesn't matter whether you have parked a Bentley or a Twingo in the parking lot. Everyone rubs shoulders and finds themselves around the same common point - the love of Avoriaz. I am keen to continue to develop this diversity by offering refined restaurants like the Lounge and others with a simpler, Savoyard menu like at La Cachette. It is also in this spirit that we have selected the wines from our cellar, “Le R” which offers bottles for all budgets. Everyone should feel welcome in Avoriaz, it is a place where I feel at home and where I want everyone to be able to simply enjoy the mountains while having access to quality services.
“My day, my time,
(WORLD CHAMPION) INTERVIEW
by amie Henderson
“This winter is huge for me. Because I’ll turn 16, I can finally step up to compete at the World Cups and of course I’d love to make it to the finals or even onto a podium along the way. That’s my aim,” wrote a 15 year old Mia Brookes in her diary entry for last winter’s issue of Morzine Source Magazine.
Just weeks later, having turned 16, she became the youngest ever World Champion in snowboarding history.
Mia’s been writing a diary for us on her life as a professional snowboarder since she was 12 years old. Back then she was balancing the pressures of school work with the weight of expectation. Everyone from Mia’s mum Vicky to BBC Ski Sunday presenter Ed Leigh knew she had the talent, but could a girl from Sandback, Cheshire really compete on the world stage? Here’s a potted history for those who’ve not been following this incredible story.
Mia’s mum Vicky and dad Nigel love to snowboard. They’d worked several seasons in the French Alps and when Mia was born, they took her along for the ride; she was just eight weeks old when she made her first trip to the mountains in the family motorhome. She stepped on a snowboard for the first time aged just 18 months, still clutching her precious Fireman Sam jigsaw box. The years passed and the family spent as much time on snow as possible - or as much as school would allow. In time, Mia would come to the attention of the Team GB Snowsports coaches, eventually becoming the youngest member of the Park & Pipe squad aged just 12 years old.
Vicky has spoken several times of how unsupportive Mia’s school were; “Education causes us the most stress,” she explained in this magazine last winter. As Mia joined Team GB for training camps in Europe, as she won major competitions aged just 13 years old, as she stepped onto podiums between Olympic athletes, her school refused to authorise her absences, even though she continued to do the actual school work remotely. Vicky and Nigel have always travelled with Mia, making their own personal sacrifices along the way. >>
I like to imagine that, having followed Mia’s story over the last four years, our most regular readers were gathered around their screens, just as I was, to watch Mia complete at the Slopestyle World Championships in Bakuriani, Georgia on 27th February 2023. Only just old enough to compete, Mia lined up next to two-time defending champion Zoi Sadowski-Synnott and in her first run through the course delivered everything the world had been expecting to see. In her second run, Mia became the first female athlete ever to land a competition CAB 1440 double grab and the world of snowboarding went wild. The new World Champion was 16 years old and she was British.
“I never imagined that I would do so well in my first year of World Cups,” Mia explains. We’re reflecting on her step-up season. “My goal was to try to make top 10 in the events I entered,” she continues. “I managed to do this at every comp last season, with a podium at the Laax Open and a World Championship title. I’m super happy!”
I’ve interviewed Mia several times and I can’t overstate how down to earth she is. She’s funny, a bit goofy, very independent, slightly shy but entirely balanced. In addition to her mum and dad, she’s always had an incredible support team, buffering her from the expectation, shielding her from the pressure from a very young age. Was this still the case in Bakuriani? “To be honest, for me, expectations weren't too high going into the World Championships,” Mia admits. “I’d done well in the other World Cups so far last season, I’d been invited to the X Games and I was super stoked to have podiumed the month previous at the Laax Open, but I hadn’t really thought about the World Championships.” Imagine. “It was penciled on the planner,” Mia continues, but I really didn’t know it was such a major event, like the Olympics. Believe it or not, I nearly didn’t go! I genuinely wondered if it would be a better idea to stay and train in Laax in preparation for the final few World Cup comps of the season. Plus, I really wanted to work on landing a 1440 :))))”
“Believe it or not, I nearly didn’t go!”
In light of that revelation, it’s no surprise to learn than Mia had no clue that she’d just become the youngest ever snowboard World Champion or become the only Brit to win a snowboard slopestyle world title. “I really didn’t know! Not until all the press started to interview me, then I think it sunk in that actually this was a pretty
big achievement.” Having been at her side during every other competition, Mia’s mum Vicky wasn’t in Bakuriani. “This was my first trip alone. Mum had left me with the rest of the team at Munich airport and this was more of a first time away solo experiment. We never ever imagined I'd come back as a World Champion,” Mia explains. “My mum and dad were at work together watching the live finals. I called them really quickly after the comp, I was crying and didn’t get a second to speak really. I was quickly taken off for testing and then straight into press interviews. Maddy from GB Snowsport helped me through all of this, she was great,” explains Mia. “I’m sure mum did say something about if I podiumed at the World Champs then I could finally get a Tattoo??”
“We never ever imagined I'd come back as a World Champion”
I wonder if watching your 16-year-old daughter become World Champion is the same was watching your four year old son pass their annual ski test? “Haha,” Vicky explains. “Nigel and I were working when Mia was doing her final runs and I was busy catching up on work, having been away for the three weeks before with Mia. So we were like 'quick get a brew Mias up next’ and then it went a bit crazy…. We just kept watching Mia’s run and over and over that day, in total shock saying to each other ‘wow, oh my goodness, that’s pretty big, now what?!' It was just 24 hours of phone calls and congratulations from friends and family, mainly the whole snowboarding community calling us up and screaming,'What the heck!?!?’”
Of course, amongst all this, there’s still school. Mia was revising for her GCSEs during all of these competitions. “It was a super difficult and challenging year as I continued to study all of my GCSE subjects at school and compete in World Cup comps,” Mia explained. “Eventually, after my Junior World Champs and European Cup results last year, school began to appreciate the level I was working at within my sport. They finally allowed me to take much more time off to compete at a World Cup level. We were given a child’s performance license and there was a >>
season planner in place, which I had to strictly work to. I had to do three hours of education per day - or 15 hours per week of tutoring online. I would normally fit this in after riding, or I would work extra hard on down days. I really didn’t mind though, because I wanted to pass my GCSEs and I'm super happy to say that all my hard work paid off. I was extremely proud when I got the email in New Zealand to say that I had passed.” I ask Vicky if anyone from Mia’s school - the one’s who’d questioned the family’s snowboard-based life choices - had been in touch with messages of congratulations for Mia? “I think the postman must have lost those letters…”
“if you look good in the lift queue, you’re winning!”
Mia is in the UK when we talk for this interview, she’s taking a few weeks to rest and recover after a 10-week training camp in Australia and New Zealand. “Unfortunately it was one of their worst winter seasons on record for snow. So we struggled a little, it wasn't as productive as we would have liked but that’s the mountains and how it goes sometimes. Australia and New Zealand are amazing though, I cant wait to go back there (with snow!)” But the life of a professional snowboarder sure seems inspiring. “I’ve never really thought of it like that! I still look up to other top female riders and see them as being the best in the world. I never like to put a label on myself as being the best or put any additional pressure on myself. The day I became World Champion at the sport I love was just my day, my time and my moment. All the girls are amazing right now and the sport has moved on a lot for women. It’s super exciting to be a part of this.”
As Mia has grown up, deeply entrenched in the snowsports community, she’s developed a style - both in terms of her appearance and her performance - that is unique. It’s laid back, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s not made for social media. “Style is everything! I love when people recognise this and when I see or know younger kids look up to me for this it makes me very happy! I always looked up to riders when I was younger for their style (or what they were wearing) rather than what tricks they could do. First it was John Weatherly (the boobytrap)
and then I went to Laax when I was eight and spotted Lucas Baume (yung Doli) and more recently it has to be Dusty Henricksen! My dad always says if you look good in the lift queue, you’re winning!!!”
Looking forward to the 23/24 winter season in Europe, Mia is particularly excited to be actually living in the Alps this year, as opposed to travelling between the classroom and the snow park. “I will be living out in Laax full time, and not even in a van!” Mia explains. “I have a little apartment there and it’s going to be so cool, my dad took all my things out in August while I was in Australia & New Zealand with my mum. I’ll be based there, then going off to all the World Cups with my coaches Mikey Williams and Ben Kinnear. We were all at World Champs together and it was so good. I’m super excited to go to China, Canada and America too.” Mia is also continuing to study a few hours of week (“it’s just good to have something else going on away from snowboarding”), she’s learning several languages and she’s playing her electric guitar at every opportunity. Good luck to Mia’s new neighbours.
“I will be living out in Laax full time, and not even in a van!”
So many people have been involved in Mia’s journey so far, yet it feels like it’s just beginning.
“There are so many people, and I know I will forget somebody,” says Vicky, when I ask her.
“Our biggest thanks are to Mia’s coaches Mikey Williams and Ben Kinnear. Sam Nelson and more recently Kris at the_kinc have also been amazing. All of Mia’s sponsors including Monster Energy, Capita, Union, Skullcandy, 686, Dragon, Vans, The Snowboard Asylum & Db, but I’ve got one extra special thank you for Mia. Thank you for being you. It’s not always easy and you have worked so hard, especially with your GCSEs too. Well done on everything you achieved this year. Mum & Dad xx”
As a snowboarder who likes free riding, even in resort, getting aquatinted with an ice axe is important. The Petzl Gully is really compact and it fits very well in the back pack, it’s very light and very efficient, especially with a little handle at the bottom. I know that for many many snowboarders, it just doesn’t make sense to use an ice axe, it’s maybe overkill, but I’m really fighting to chance that idea. In snowboarding it really doesn’t take much to get stuck; a tiny bit of exposure on your heel side edge with a bit of hard snow and you’ll feel really really stupid and put yourself in danger.
rossignol splitboard xv RRP from €900.00 rossignol.com
The board I use the most is the 163cm Rossignol XV. It’s my pro model and I think it’s a very good size because it’s very versatile, I can jump, it’s not too heavy, it’s very solid. I never break these boards and they hold really well at high speeds, on steeps and also at lower speed too. I’m really in love with this board.
the north face snomad 34l RRP €200.00 thenorthface.com
My go to size is 34l in this North Face Snowmad, because I like that you can compact it quite well if you don’t have much stuff to carry, but if you need to carry all of you mountaineering stuff you can fit quite a lot in there, so that’s great.
deeluxe spark xv
RRP €499.95 deeluxe.com
I’ve been lucky enough to design my own with Deluxe for many many years and the Spark XV is my favourite boot. We’ve seen in the last few years quite a lot of hardcore mountaineering boots for snowboarding and for me it’s been a choice to remain with the feel of a snowboard boot. This means having a boot with a good base but at the same time it’s not too hard. This means you’ll lose a little bit when you’re cramponing and stuff, but for me the feeling of riding is the most important. These boots have a good sole, it’s a mountaineering sole which should last a long time and they let me climb well and have a really good grip on ice and rocks. The solidity of it with all the membranes around, which is quite important. It’s the perfect compromise.
Whilst there’s little point in dwelling over the ‘snow situation’ experienced across the French Alps during the festive holidays of the Winter 22/23 season, it’s a fact that our snow line is becoming more and more unpredictable each year. Resting at an altitude of 1172m, Les Gets certainly isn’t the highest ski resort in the French Alps, yet skiers flock back year after year to soak up its authentic village charm. Families love the entertainment offered on the snow front, skiers bask on the sunny terraces of piste-side restaurants and there truly is something for everyone in Les Gets, regardless of the snow depth.
In recent years the Les Gets lift operator SaGets has made significant investments, totalling many millions of euros, into the production of cultured snow for times when the weather doesn’t play ball. Projects have included the creation of large reservoirs around the ski area, designed to collect the autumn rains typical of the mountains, then used to feed the network of snow cannons across the piste network. For the winter 23/24 season, Les Gets’ 68 runs are covered by a network of 689 individual snow canons, spanning 152 hectares of piste. That equates to coverage of 50% of the entire ski area.
In an effort to offset any further concerns skiers and snowboarders might have in relation to snow conditions in the future, Les Gets’ largest tour operator Chalets 1066 launched a unique and brand new no-snow insurance policy ahead of this winter season, offering holidaymakers a full refund on their accommodation in the event of a lack of snow. “We understand the nervousness that our customers have when booking a ski holiday before the winter” Managing Director Mark Nathan explains. “If fewer than 23 pistes in
the Les Gets-Morzine ski area are open 48 hours before a guest’s arrival in one of our chalets, then our insurance policy will cover a full refund on their accommodation,” Mark continues. The policy also covers customers in the event of too much snow restricting their travel to and arrival in Les Gets, in addition to illness within their ski group, cancellation of the holiday due to work commitments and even a sick pet that needs attention at home.
Chalets 1066 have partnered with reputable insurance company Trustiway to provide their optional no-snow policy, which costs 5% of the overall chalet accommodation booking and must be added to a booking at the time of reservation. In order for bookings to be refunded, the Les Gets lift operator SaGets must officially confirm the closure of the pistes - as a guide, there are 68 pistes in total across the Les Gets-Morzine ski area. If fewer than 23 marked runs are open 48 hours before arrival in Les Gets, then guests can decide not to travel and they’ll receive a full reimbursement of their accommodation costs, provided their stay is between the dates of 15th December 2023 and 1st April 2024.
Chalets 1066 have over 40 properties available uniquely in Les Gets and pride themselves in offering choice, quality and value to both their guests and their property owners.
Discover more and check live availability for your next Les Gets holiday at chalets1066.com
As you’ll discover on page 98 of this magazine, the Barryvox was inspired by a St. Bernard dog named Barry; he saved 40 people during his lifetime working on the infamous Great St. Barnard pass two hundred years ago. These days we rely on Swiss mountaineering brand Mammut for avalanche rescue technology. The Barryvox S is an avalanche rescue transceiver with an exceptionally long list of tech features, perhaps the most important being a large receiving bandwidth and an effective search strip of 70 metres. The device itself has a larger, simplified interface with intuitive operation, should you be searching for someone in an avalanche rescue situation. Mammut have packed all of their ground-breaking search and rescue knowledge into this one transceiver, we’re sure Barry the dog would be very impressed indeed.
Once you’ve experienced the 4-way stretch in a pair of Mons Royale winter leggings, you’ll never go back to your old, misshapen thermal layers. Providing all the warmth of merino base layers but designed to keep their shape for longer, the flat locked seams prevent friction on your legs, leaving you dry, comfy and warm for the entire day. Mons Royale also produce 3/4 length leggings, designed not to interfere with your ski socks and boots. Available in both mens and women’s fits and weighing barely anything, these are our new favourite thermal layers.
It’ll come as no surprise to learn that Mons Royale designed a thermal top to accompany your brand new leggings. Again, you’ll love the 4-way stretch and the flat locked seams, but we also love the 1/4 zip which gives you a bit of freedom of movement and a little extra ventilation on those warmer spring ski days. We’ve also come to the conclusion that every thermal top should have thumb loops, and Mons Royale oblige with their Cascade range.
Skinalp is a family business in the Aosta valley charged with giving a second life to unwanted or discarded ski touring skins. For those not in the know, skins are long strips of nylon or mohair and they’re attached to skis or split boards to provide traction when climbing. Skinalp take production leftovers or overtimed skins and use them to produce belts, wallets, key holders, backpacks and bags that are bold, colourful and environmentally responsible. Crafted by hand in Italy, each product is unique and made from only quality production leftovers.
L'ETALE, a must-see restaurant for more than 40 years, is a typical brasserie where the originality and the atmosphere will not fail to amaze you.
L’ETALE, restaurant incontournable depuis plus de 40 ans est une brasserie typique où l’originalité ainsi que l’ambiance ne manqueront pas de vous étonner.
Ciele took the best bits from their famous GoCap and reworked them into a cold weather cap that’s perfect for ski touring days. Take the fold-away ear flaps for example. They’re perfect for when the wind is whipping up ever so slightly, but it’s still too warm for a proper hat. Inside there’s a cosy yet breathable Stormfleece liner. The pliable peak shades your face from multiple angles while providing UPF sun protection and the moisture wicking fabric works to keep you cool and dry. And best of all, it’s machine washable too.
You can taste Savoyard specialties but also pizzas, meats, fish and flavours from around the world... we offer a gourmet menu with Savoyard touches with homemade dishes and desserts.
Vous pourrez déguster des spécialités savoyardes mais aussi pizzas, viandes, poissons et des saveurs
Serge Pillot knows everything there is to know about wine.
And as the co-owner of Domaine Parpalhòl in France’s famous Languedoc region, he ought to. The Parpalhòl estate spans 30 hectares and features vines aged between 20 and 30 years. Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are grown for red, while Chardonnay, Marsanne, Viognier, Sauvignon and Colombard supply the whites. Sustainable agriculture is at the heart of Serge and his partner Jean-Marie’s production at Domaine Parpalhòl and that involves harvesting at 3am to collect the firmest, freshest grapes.
Serge spends his winters in Morzine, where he has lived for many years. His Alpine Wine Tasting Club events bring his extensive knowledge of wine directly into your holiday accommodation and sessions are the perfect alternative to apres-ski in a busy bar. Serge delivers a fascinating insight into the world of wines and you absolutely do not need to be an expert yourself to enjoy these events; there’s wine after all! But first, Serge is here to answer the questions you were almost too embarrassed to ask about wine…
What are the characteristics of local wines and which are your favourites?
For any wine region, it’s essential to talk about climate. The Alps have always been a cool climate and so are more adapted for white wines. However, with recent climate changes, this is affecting the production too and the region now offers nice red wines these days! I love the white grape Gringet from Ayze, close to Bonneville and wines from Marin, a village right above Thonon on the shores of Lake Geneva.
What makes red wine red? And white wines white?And rosé wine rosé?
Except in very rare grape varieties, grape juice is always white, just press a red grape at home and you’ll see. Pigments called anthocyanes are present in many fruits and also in red grapes, so only contact between skin colour and the grape juice colors the wine. Rosé wine is the result of red grapes being pressed and the grape juice being in contact with the red skins for between 24 and 26 hours. That’s compared to between 20 and 30 days to create red wines. Consequently, white wine has no skin contact at all.
Which wine causes the worst hangover?
Probably the one you drink most of…?! More seriously, headaches are generally caused by high sulphate levels and poor quality wines. I recommend organic wines, they really are very good for you… !
How long should you keep a bottle of wine once you’ve opened it?
What a strange question, I imagined all opened bottles were finished rather quickly !
To book a lively, informative wine tasting event during your winter holiday, you can call Serge on +33 (0) 6 83 12 92 10 or email domaineparpalhol@gmail.com Follow Serge’s adventures in wine over on Instagram @alpinewinetastingclub or on
Re-corked, I would suggest a couple of days maximum. I recommend an air pump to reseal a bottle once it’s been opened (they’re very easy to find in shops) and they'll help to keep an open bottle tasting great for a week, easily.
Is it OK to add ice to wine?
First of all, if you need to add ice to your wine, it probably means you are not serving it at the right temperature. Secondly, as a wine producer that works hard all year round, paying attention to grape culture and every single detail involved in winemaking, I admit I find it very hard to see people diluting wine with ice.
How do you feel about wine in boxes?
The bag in box market is huge these days, a lot of producers pay a lot of attention to offering high quality wines for the ever-expanding market. But obviously, just as with bottled wine, there can be some poor ones. I guess if it suits certain people to drink wine from a bag rather than a bottle, I’m happy with that, it is surely convenient. But it will never match a wine in bottle for sure.
Do you imagine that an English wine will ever make an appearance on a French wine list?
I’m pretty sure it is the case already and it should rightly be so! I experienced an English fizzy a while ago called Nyetimber from Kent, that was absolutely stunning. For red wine however, it will take a while and the right climate conditions, but there are indeed many talented winemakers in the UK.
Which local restaurants offer the best house wines, in your view?
I haven’t experienced all Morzine restaurants, but La Chaudanne has an extensive and complete wine list, I enjoyed the wine list at the new Le PassionNant restaurant also. Most restaurants in les Lindarets in the Avoriaz sector also have interesting wine selections too. Clearly, every place that list my wines has the edge.
Is French wine your favourite? If not, which is your country of preference…?
That’s a tricky question, France is surely the producing country that I know the most about and that has probably the widest offering, but could I honestly ignore countries like Italy, Spain or New Zealand? The fascinating thing about the wine world is that you’ll always discover new gems every time. Greece, Uruguay, Germany, it’s a never ending story. But always remember the best wine in the world is always the one shared with good friends and with a smile on your face. Nothing beats that!
Perched high on the side of a mountain, in the shadow of the mighty Mont Blanc, 1365m above sea level and a 35 minute steep hike from the nearest road, you’ll find a rickety old donkey shelter. Welcome to the Distillerie Saint Gervais Mont Blanc, home of Gin du Mont Blanc and Whiskey du Mont Blanc. Inside, Scotsman James Abbott can single-handedly distill 270 bottles of his award-winning gin each day using two 100 litre, open flame copper stills. His is a unique operation, the only distillerie in the region. Here’s his story.
“I arrived in Saint Gervais eight years ago. I was waiting for my Canadian visa to come through, I expected it to take around six months and I wanted to live somewhere new in the meantime. I came to Saint Gervais to do some advanced climbing and to be a snow bum for the first time in my life. As it happens, six months is quite a long time when all you have to do is snowboard every day. I got to know many of the locals, they’d invite me to their houses for dinner and since I’m Scottish I’d take a bottle of whiskey with me. Six months passed and they encouraged me to stay, to start making my own whiskey. I didn’t know it at the time, but the French are the biggest consumers of single malt in the world and they have been for six years in a row.
Now, there isn’t a Scotsman alive who hasn’t dreamed of making their own whiskey at some point in their lives. We get dragged around these distilleries as a kid, when we’re much too young to drink the stuff. My Canadian visa application was taking longer than anticipated, so I did a little research. The idea of using snowmelt from Mont Blanc to create a unique distillation appealed and no one else was making whiskey in the region. My visa finally came through, shortly after I’d sold my eco house in Canada and made the decision to stay in Saint Gervais. The Distillerie Saint Gervais was born.
Whiskey is quite a tricky proposition however, with quite long processes, so I decided first to experiment with gin. It was a wee bit of a gamble, that’s for sure. Some of the older French friends I’d made enjoyed their eau de vie, but they turned their nose up at gin. I wanted to create a unique gin that could be consumed neat, perhaps with an ice cube and a zest of orange. I soon discovered that the secret to distilling gin is finding the right recipe. And once you have it, managing its replication. The other big challenge was incorporating some very important ecological practises from the very beginning. This element was really important to me. I source all of the botanics I use in the creation of Gin du Mont Blanc from within five hours of our distillerie. My grandparents were botanists, so I grew up learning which which plants you can eat, which work as medicines and the like. Other big brands are importing their botanics from America, from Siberia, but that wouldn’t work for me; I wanted to reduce as much as possible the transportation involved in the production of my gin.
Trying to build ecological principles into a business from the beginning is really tough, though I admit that it’s got slightly easier in recent years. Finding the right location for the distillerie was important. I couldn’t afford to build or buy a big unit, but a former donkey shelter owned by a local restaurant owner at an altitude of 1365 metres would do the trick nicely. It was the quickest and easiest way for me to get going. I reused and recycled materials that I found around the mountain to modify the shelter, I connected solar energy and I avoided all plastics. Our bottles, caps and packaging are all produced using recycled materials and everything comes from France. I also needed to use a chemical-free glue for the labels, but I couldn’t find one anywhere. I was discussing my dilemma with a local farmer, who immediately suggested cows milk as glue. I’d never heard of that before, but apparently here in France, that’s how it used to be done. I stuck the first 1000 labels on my bottles myself, which was very messy and very time consuming but very necessary.
To guide the creation of the gin, a mutual friend introduced me to Tom Nichol. This friend told Tom about a crazy guy in the Alps who wanted to make gin half way up a mountain and he was intrigued. Tom has 42 years of experience making gin and he is the holder of a lifetime achievement award from the Gin Guild. I sent him samples of the local botanics I was considering using in my distillation. He tested the strength of the aromas and taught me how to test each plant to make sure it was good. >>
My partnership with Tom was massively important. He’d never made a gin that you could drink neat and he’d never distilled at altitude either. Of course boiling temperatures are different at altitude, so this was an amazing learning discovery for both of us. When you’re distilling gin at minus 20 degrees during the winter months and plus 30 degrees during the summer, maintaining consistency is incredibly difficult. There’s no controlled environment, as you might expect in a large production plant. We’re at the mercy of the elements and it certainly keeps me on my toes. I write down the meteo readings throughout the day, paying attention to both the temperature and the humidity to help me calibrate the distillation for consistency. You only need one egg cup of alcohol in the mix at the wrong temperature and you can destroy and entire distillation, that’s how sensitive it is.
Aside from the production of the gin, right from the very beginning I new I was up against it sales wise too. Vodka sales were on the wane but whiskey and gin were on the up. And every time a product becomes popular, everyone jumps on it; so many new gins have launched in the last five years. Many people don’t realise that when you see Hendrick’s gin, Tanqueray gin on the shelves of bars, it’s because their big corporate owners have paid for them to be there. They almost give the gin away for free to make sure their bottles stay prominent and its hard for the small producers to compete with that.
In recent years, Gin du Mont Blanc has become very popular amongst gin aficionados and I began working with a national distributor. We’ve won awards, some of the top chefs in France use our gin in their cookery, we’ve even been on national television. I also started creating that Whiskey du Mont Blanc that my friends had requested. Whiskey is a labour of love and very time-intense for just a small quantity, but everyone seems to enjoy it so I created a waiting list for each production. When I was first setting up the distillerie, I read that if a French business can survive the first three years, you’re likely to be OK. Just as I was approaching that three year mark, COVID 19 arrived. Because it’s just me working in the business, I was able to keep my costs low and I experimented with online orders. It was incredibly time consuming to fulfil the orders and very expensive to arrange the postage. It just wasn’t worth it.
I produced 7,000 bottles of gin last year and I’ve been doing some very careful thinking about the future of my business. I haven’t taken a salary in seven years, and I’m bored of that. With some extra storage capacity and some help with bottling, I’ve calculated that I can increase my capacity to 50,000 bottles per year and I’m now looking at ways to export Gin du Mont Blanc internationally, beginning in 2024. I also have the opportunity to create a brand new, custom made distillery, which will give me the opportunity to create new recipes, increase capacity, create a shop, a tasting area for events and offices. These are all big, expensive decisions but I’m really grateful for the support of the Saint Gervais community. Of course Gin du Mont Blanc will continue to be made half way up a mountain, in a former donkey shed.
And you’re very welcome to come and visit me in the former donkey shed, many people do! Though these days, I arrange visits by appointment so I can be sure that I’m there. During the winter months you can ski in to the distillerie via the Plan de Crêt blue piste from Les Houches. During the summer months, it’s a 35 minute hike up to the distillerie. All the details for tours are on my website.”
GIN DU MONT BLANC - ABV: 43.6%
CRYSTAL CLEAR IN APPEARANCE, FRESH AND FRAGRANT IN AROMA. THE TASTE IS DELICATELY FLAVOURED WITH JUNIPER AND ORANGE, THE AFTERTASTE IS SWEET CITRUS WITH A NOTE OF GÉNÉPI.
A COMBINATION OF EIGHT DIFFERENT BOTANICS AND SPICES:
JUNIPER BERRIES, SWEET ORANGE, GÉNÉPI, LIME, BLUEBERRY CORIANDER, LIQUORICE, ANGELIC
JAMES RECOMMENDS
DRINK IT NEAT WITH AN ICE CUBE AND A SMALL PIECE OF ORANGE PEEL. ALTERNATIVELY, WITH A LEMON ZEST OR A FEW BLUEBERRIES.
Mont Blanc Gin is available to buy at WineNot in the centre of Morzine, or via the VandB website - vandb.fr. For distillerie tour details visit distilleriesaintgervais.com
AUTHENTIC 5* SAVOYARD CHALET
• SUPERB PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
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• SLEEPS 18 PEOPLE (MAXIMUM OF 12 ADULTS)
• 6 DOUBLE EN-SUITE BEDROOMS
• 1 DORM SLEEPING 6 CHILDREN
• FULLY ENCLOSED GARDEN
• LARGE SOUTH-FACING TERRACE
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Music festivals come in all shapes and sizes these days but Snowboxx, which takes place in Avoriaz between 16th and 23rd March 2024, was born with a very simple ethos; excellent music on the snow. Founders Rob and Aden had been at university together, while simultaneously running party trips to Ibiza and a few other locations for their mates. Somewhere along the line someone had the idea to bring the party to the mountains and Snowboxx was born.
That was back in 2013 in Arinsal, Andorra. An admirable 800 people joined the first festival, but Rob and Aden’s unique concept blended on-piste events such as mountaintop cinemas screening everything from Cool Runnings to Blades of Glory with off-piste parties including global DJs on packed-out sunny terraces. Snowboxx stayed in Arinsal for two years, but the festival was about to snow ball.
2015 saw the event move to Alpe d’Huez, where the altitude provided more late-season snow certainty and the volume of accommodation available in the resort made it possible for Snowboxx to offer festival packages including accommodation, lift passes and a festival wristband for just £299. 2000 people gathered that year to watch Jungle on a hastily-erected stage in a car park.
Yet at Snowboxx HQ, the search for the perfect ski resort continued. The organisers were sure that this was a ski and snowboard festival with a musical accompaniment, as opposed to a straight up music festival on snow. Avoriaz, with it’s huge volume of entirely ski-in, ski-out accommodation, short airport transfer and excellent end of season snow record was the perfect fit and in March 2016, 4000 of us gathered on the plateau above the village to watch Grandmaster Flash, Mike Skinner of The Streets and Stormzy.
With the Snowboxx formula finally perfected, recent years have seen the festival’s numbers swell to 8000 people and the event sells out year after year. 2018 was an outstanding year, with Chase and Status and Fatboy Slim on the lineup, 2020 brought us Andy C, Annie Mac and DJ EZ and in 2022 the Faithless DJ set was outstanding. Gok Wan even turned up to host an apres party in 2023!
But it’s away from the dance floor that Snowboxx really proves itself as an outstanding winter sports festival. The week is jam-packed with fun times, including those famous bottomless brunches, igloo parties, inflatable races, fancy dress on the slopes and the unmissable skim pool. We’re told there are some extra special 10th birthday surprises in store this year too!
By dylan fant
The cover of our Winter 24 magazine was designed by Burlington, Vermont-based illustrator Dylan Fant. We first found Dylan on Instagram; inspired by the bold colours and natural order of his work, we sent him a message and crossed our fingers. The end result is a striking graphic, full of wonder and charm; we think Dylan has captured the special atmosphere of our villages incredibly well and we hope you agree. Here’s the story of our cover in Dylan’s words.
“The opportunity to work with Morzine Source Magazine came about when Michael reached out to ask if I'd be interested in designing the winter and summer cover for 2024. He and Amie shared lots of detail about the resorts, their magazine and sent over some previous magazine covers so I could familiarise myself with them a bit more. The brief was to capture the spirit of the mountains in my hand-drawn, organic style as well as incorporate some text in the design itself.
My illustrations are flowy, organic, sometimes a bit psychedelic. Often there’s an exaggerated sense of wonder for the natural world. My work is also often informed by screen printing so there's typically a limited palette of vibrant colours. People often ask me which has been my favourite project so far. It's so hard to pick favourites! I really love gig poster projects. It's such a fun combination of design, illustration and typography. I also love seeing the final screen-printed pieces that become unique pieces of art based on tiny little imperfections in every print. A recent highlight was a poster I got to do for the band Phish playing a flood recovery benefit show for New York and Vermont. All the proceeds of the print (in fact the entire show) went to help rebuild after severe flooding took place this past year.
For this winter’s issue of Morzine Source Magazine I wanted to capture the overall vibe of the mountains over there in the Alps, without being overly specific to drawing a particular view. Instead, trying to capture a feeling of what makes those resorts special. The trails that wind through alpine villages with massive snow covered peaks in the distance. Doing most of my riding in Vermont, it's a totally different aesthetic to what we've got to enjoy out here.
That said, I think the spirit of the mountains is universal. There is a certain feeling you get when you're in the mountains, wherever in the world you may be. And there are particular kinds of people drawn to those environments. The way elevation literally expands your worldview is really special.
I’m working on some really exciting projects at the moment. I feel like I've always got a few gig posters in progress throughout the year. In between client jobs I try to devote time to creating art for myself, either screen printed art prints or paintings. I've been doing a lot more painting recently, It's nice to have a creative outlet outside of just working digitally on a computer. And of course, when I’m not working, I’m riding at my local resorts here in Vermont! And trying to stay in shape at the climbing gym, for when the outdoor climbing season rolls around next spring.
Instagram is probably the place I update most frequently, so if you’d like to discover more about my work, that’s the best place to go. I'm @dylanfantillustration. I've also got a website dylanfant.com where I sell gig posters and art prints of my work. I’ll be back with a cover for your summer magazine real soon, but in the meantime, enjoy the winter over there in the Alps!”
This isn’t the first time I’ve preached about the wonders of ski balaclavas for kids, but it’s also true that good ones are hard to find. This 686 youth version is a thing of greatness and though it’s not specifically in the 686 ‘kids’ range, I can tell you from experience that it fits from age six and above. Made from 92% polyester and 8% spandex over all, with a mouth covering panel made from merino wool, the overall result is a stretchy but not-too-constrictive balaclava that feels comfortable underneath a helmet and keeps those little faces toasty on the mountain. Available in two different colours, I know there’ll be a fight for the ‘green flash’ version in my house.
It’s bib pants all the way for my two boys this season and these Picture Organic ones are the best we’ve come across so far. You see, not all bib pants are created equal, and many are just too baggy and impractical for life in the mountains. These Ninge bib pants are made from 52% recycled polyester and with a 10k ‘Dryplay’ membrane and we really appreciate the adjustable straps when one child has an inexplicable growth spurt. Picture Organic have also added a stretchy lycra panel upgrade to the Ninge bib pants for extra freedom of movement.
POC Sports are forever the ‘best in class’ when it comes to kids helmets and goggles as far as we’re concerned; no other brand comes close in terms of safety credentials and comfort. POCito is POC’s range of equipment for little rippers and these Iris goggles are designed to fit perfectly with the Fornix MIPS helmet. The design of the Iris goggle takes it’s shape and lens quality from the adult version, with enhanced contrast and a flexible frame with a triple-layer face foam. The clever silicone grip on the inside of the strap keeps the google secure against the helmet and we love the reflective patches that help to keep kids visible on the slopes. Excellent work POC.
Stand by for a long list of safety features here. Firstly, observe the bright, fluorescent colours that make kids more noticeable on the slopes and hopefully help to avoid collisions. Reflective patches also help to enhance visibility. There’s a RECCO reflector to make kids more searchable, a goggle clip to keep everything in place and adjustable ventilation too. But it’s the MIPS technology that we’re most interested in. The Multi-directional Impact Protection System is a low-friction layer built within the helmet designed to reduce rotational impact forces, should a fall or collision occur. Forgive me if this sounds preachy, but your kids should definitely have MIPS tech in their helmets this winter. pocito
Nothing spoils a family day out in the mountains like a cold child. These unisex Burton thermal sets provide top-tobottom, quick-drying, warm and versatile coverage with a matching set of base layers. They’re lightweight and technical with soft lock seams that don’t chafe. We like the fact that they’re not too baggy as to be cumbersome under ski wear, but they don’t feel restrictive either. Burton’s own DRYRIDE makes them moisture-wicking too.
As per my point on kids thermals, soggy gloves are a sure-fire way to ruin family fun day this winter. I’ve always been a big fan of mitts, especially for small children. They’re much easier to remove and put on again after snack time (i.e. every ten minutes) and when combined with a wrist lanyard, they’re pretty much perfect. The Linear mitt from 686 features GORE-TEX, ensuring little hands stay warm and dry for hours. That said, as soon as kids start using ski poles, we prefer a glove. Upgrade to the Linear glove version, which includes all of the same tech specs as the adult version, but for smaller hands. We love the over-thecuff, longer length too.
Au pied des pistes des Gets, le Chalet-Hôtel**** La Marmotte, La Tapiaz et Spa est tout ce que son nom promet : douillet, familial et chaleureux. Jolis meubles anciens, objets insolites et service personnalisé : vous vous sentirez ici comme à la maison.
Profitez d’une note gourmande et savoureuse dans notre brasserie de montagne “La Biskatcha” et venez découvrir notre nouvelle carte végétarienne dans notre restaurant “La Piste Noire”.
Réouverture cet hiver, de notre restaurant de Spécialités Savoyardes, La Pivotte.
At the foot of the slopes of Les Gets, the Chalet-Hotel**** La Marmotte, La Tapiaz and Spa is everything its name promises: cosy, family-friendly and warm. Discover antique furniture, characterful decoration and personalised service that makes you feel at home.
Enjoy a gourmet and tasty occasion in our mountain brasserie “La Biskatcha” and discover the new vegetarian menu in our restaurant “La Piste Noire”
Reopening this winter, our savoyard spaciality restaurant, La Pivotte.
No winter holiday in Morzine is complete without an apres-ski session at Hotel Le Tremplin. Its location - in the centre of the village, adjacent to the Pleney télécabine and right at the bottom of the slopes - makes
Le Tremplin the perfect meeting point to celebrate the end of another marvellous day in the mountains.
It’s always been that way at Le Tremplin. Jean and Gaston Taberlet opened the hotel in 1936, just a couple of years after the Pleney telecabine came into service. As the decades passed, the hotel continued to be a family affair, welcoming weary skiers with a friendly smile and warm hospitality. At the end of 2022, owners Sophie and Gilles passed the hotel on to a new family; the Timpsons. Morzine’s most iconic apres venue now has a new custodian and exciting plans are afoot.
The Timpsons, of key-cutting, shoemending fame, are Morzine regulars. They’ve been enjoying apres on the terrace of Le Tremplin for many years. Yet it’s fair to say there was some trepidation when news of a change in ownership rippled through the village. “They’re going to knock it down and build apartments,” went one Chinese whisper. “That’s the Morzine apres scene dead and buried,” went another.
“Don’t worry, Le Tremplin lives on,” James Timpson told me over a hasty breakfast, shortly after he purchased the hotel. It was a blue bird powder day and we were both expected elsewhere. As it happens, in addition
“Don’t worry, Le Tremplin lives on”
to cutting keys and mending shoes, the Timpsons are also experienced hoteliers, operating three exceptional
locations in the UK. “Le Tremplin will continue to be Morzine’s iconic, pisteside apres venue for many decades to come but with some characterful, quirky upgrades, which you will love,” James promised. Phew, to say we were all relieved was an understatement.
Le Tremplin will be renovated in several stages, the first of which is already complete. During Summer 2023, the hotel’s underground carpark received a much-needed extension. Following these works, the hotel’s large terrace has been replaced, ready for Winter 23/24. You’ll now be able to grab a takeaway coffee and food to go on your way up the Pleney each morning, return for a sunny lunch on the terrace and come 4pm, queue the DJ, let’s get the party started.
Come spring 2024, the second stage of the project begins. Le Tremplin will be rebuilt on the exact same footprint as the
existing hotel and in the style that is instantly recognisable. “No one should be concerned when they see walls being removed next summer.” Adds James. “We’ve a huge amount of respect for Morzine’s heritage and Le Tremplin’s iconic style has been at the forefront of our redesign. This work is necessary for structural and environmental reasons; whilst we will always keep the essence and unique character of Le Tremplin, we want to preserve and improve the fun vibe that the hotel has always been known for”.
Summer 2024 promises fun times at the bottom of the Pleney. While major structural works are underway within the hotel, ‘Camp Le Tremplin’ will be a pop-up, festivalthemed venue at the bottom of the Pleney. Home to live music, delicious food and post-ride beers, we can expect the same party atmosphere that we all know and love from Le Tremplin during the summer season. The hotel’s famous terrace returns for Winter 2024/25 with some seriously fun upgrades (they’re currently top secret, but watch this space), so in many ways, it’ll be ‘business as usual’ throughout the entire project.
“Le Tremplin will continue to be Morzine’s iconic, piste-side apres venue for many decades to come”
When Le Tremplin reopens for the Winter 2025/26 season, it will include a collection of smart holiday apartments to rent, right on the slopes. The all-singing, all-dancing terrace and bar will come to life once again, with its family-friendly brasserie. A new restaurant will open in the evenings offering an enhanced bistro menu and incredible views across the village and beyond. The bar and brasserie will also be open late.
“My family and I recognise that Morzine is no ordinary ski resort,” James tells me when we catch up during Summer 2023. “We love the varied ski area here, the warm welcome everyone receives across the village and the fact that the summer season gets better and better each year. There’s nowhere quite like Morzine. This project is a long term investment for our business and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Tremplin they know and love this winter. See you on the dance floor!”
More Info:
Stay up to date with developments at Le Tremplin by following the venue on Instagram - @letremplin or head to the hotel’s website - hotel-tremplin.com Le Tremplin’s famous end of season party takes place on Saturday 30th March 2024
“trust your dreams”
I was born in 1997 and when I was just two or three years old, my parents enrolled me in the local ski school in Morzine. That’s not unsual around here; all of the children join the local ski school. I followed the normal path, completing all of the ESF stages in the P’tits Morzinois, then I joined the local ski club. Again, that was a fairly normal thing to do. I was on my skis all the time, skiing with my parents, skiing is a big thing for my family. I have an older brother and you know, you always want to be as good as them, but it was a big difference when I was four and he was seven.
Ski club sounds fun, I know, but when you’re eight or nine years old, racing all of the time with a lot of discipline from the coaches, it’s a lot. I was happier skiing freestyle with my dad and my brother, shaping kickers at the side of the piste, practising my back flips. Back in ski club, some of my friends didn’t pass the three speed tests required to stay in the team. How can you tell an eight year old child that they can’t compete because they’re not good enough at something? I didn’t like this mindset. Soon I started to prefer the freedom of freestyle to discipline of ski racing and that’s where this story begins.
“when you’re eight or nine years old, racing all of the time with a lot of discipline from the coaches, it’s a lot.”
Freestyle skiing wasn’t an Olympic sport back then and, unlike today, there was no freestyle club in Morzine. For sure, there were a lot of closed minds. Meanwhile, over in Chatel, there was a team of freestyle skiers, mogul skiers, facilities and enthusiasm for this new sport that I loved. We were just 10 years old, but we’d cruise across the Portes du Soleil at every >>
opportunity to ski with our friends in Chatel. In the summer we’d go to the water jump in Evian; we trained all year round in both freestyle and mogul skiing. These were really good times.
Let’s look at Chatel now. The resort has supported and launched the careers of so many amazing mogul skiers. Ben Cavet, he’s British-born, skiing on the French national team, going to the Olympics. Sisters Leonie and Makayla Gerken-Schofield and their brother Thomas, they’re British too and they’re all incredibly successful. We all had the same coach - Yannick - and we became a really solid crew back in the day. Chatel, Avoriaz and Evian were really good places to train. The mentality starts with the coach and if that suits you well and inspires you, it pushes you on. The support of Chatel as a resort was fantastic.
“The mentality starts with the coach and if that suits you well and inspires you, it pushes you on.”
So then I’m 12 years old and I am the French mogul skiing champion. It was wild. Then someone let me choose between mogul skiing and freestyle skiing. You’d imagine that I choose moguls, right? Because I was the champion. Moguls were too much like alpine ski racing for me; there was just one route through the course, a few jumps and everyone did the same tricks. And it was too strict. For me, freestyle gave me more opportunity to be creative - free to do whatever I wanted.
I was just 13 years old when I tore my ACL for the first time. I had surgery, missed a whole winter, it was miserable. When I came back, I struggled for a whole season; the other competitors were doing new tricks, they’d raised the level. But somehow I became the French Vice Freestyle Champion when I was 15 years old. I was super happy. Then I tore my ACL again. My surgeon told me to consider my life choices… “your knees aren’t good and you’re only 17 years old,” he told me. “I do fewer operations on freeride skiers,” he continued. It sounded like an easy decision to me.
Of course during all of this, I’m studying for my BAC, which I passed and then joined the Geneva School of Economics on a three-year course. School wasn’t a distraction, as you might imagine. It was cool to have something different to focus on, but it also gave me flexibility to get to the mountains at the weekends. I missed all the parties of course. But I was one of the
top 10 free riders in Europe that year, so I think it was worth it.
My plan was to work hard on my studies, get that in the bag, and then ski as a full time job after that. During the summers I’d work in my Dad’s bar (Chez Roger, you might remember it? If not, then where were you?) to pay for my skiing, then a couple of years ago, brands started to get in touch to offer me sponsorship. The year I graduated from my Masters degree in Finance from Lausanne, I came sixth on the Freeride World Tour (FWT) qualifier. That all sounds great except the cut-off to make the proper tour the following winter was forth place. I was super gutted. I was sure I’d made it because my results had been good. By now I’m 25 years old and it seemed like the perfect age. It felt like my time, but I missed it. I took the summer to get over it and go mountain biking.
“freestyle gave me more opportunity to be creative”
As you might remember, there was no snow in the whole of Europe at the start of the Winter 22 season, so I went to Utah, where they were getting 50cm every day. I was still super gutted not to be joining the FWT. Then they called me - could I join the tour in two weeks? They’d given me a wild card and it was really crazy. They explained that I’d done seven seasons at the qualifier and they wanted to give me my chance. Last winter I did my best season, everything aligned, I was super stoked.
Becoming a professional skier was always my dream, and it still is. Some people don’t realise the chances we have in life. Each morning I wake up, work out in the gym. People ask me why I’m so motivated, it’s because this was my dream as a kid - getting paid to do the thing I love most. So for me, it’s all positive. I try to enjoy every single moment because I know it can stop super quickly. It’s stressful thinking about a big accident, or whatever but I have to keep that in my mind every day. Also, my dad is super happy with me now!
During the COVID winters, I was bored. Skiers want to ski, you know. So I made a movie. Why not? I called it HOME and it was narrated by the guy who does the voice over for Morgan Freeman in the movies, so it was super atmospheric. You get the idea. Lucas Stanus was my cameraman, I planned the shooting, the budget and did the tricks myself. For sure I’ll return to making movies later. I want to make a HOME 2 in maybe five or six years, when I’ve achieved some other things. It’s better to keep people waiting!
I like the idea of social media in skiing. My dad always had a little pocket camera to video our back flips in the park and he always told me filming makes you better, as you can see where to improve. I realised that watching myself back on camera is seeing what the judges see in competitions. It’s not how I feel on a run, >>
or on a line; it’s what it looks like to everyone else that matters. That’s why videos are useful. So I always have my phone or my Go Pro with me. Other riders don’t film stuff and they like to ride for themselves, which is also cool.
“ watching myself back on camera is seeing what the judges see in competitions. ”
I think it’s crazy that we don’t have a year-round training facility for action sports in Morzine. We don’t even have a proper big gym to use! The Hive is super cool, but we need trampolines to train on in summer, all of the other resorts have them. La Clusaz is amazing for training. Megeve too. It seems like every other resort has some training facilities but Morzine has nothing. There are athletes here all year round, its crazy, we need to work on this. If we want more good athletes here, we need this.
Heading into the winter 23/24 season, I’m looking forward to winning competitions. I’m training hard and I started earlier than usual, in July. I have a new preparation coach now, I try to set everything in the right order to be ready for this winter. Two years ago I started working with a performance coach. It’s not because I have any problems, it’s to prevent problems and to prepare my mind for when it's stressed. Having someone like this to speak with regularly makes the lows less low, it’s super cool. If I could change one thing about the whole ski club set up, it would be the introduction of a mental coach for these kids. Just to start talking in a group, especially when you’re 12 years old and you’re competing and you have a lot of stress. Go to the gym to train your body, but train your mind too.
My main goal for this season is to improve my ranking. Only 18 athletes quality for the FWT each year, Verbier is for sure my favourite part of the tour; hopefully I can win and then retire! I say that, but I don’t really like to speak about the future. I like to live day by day, because life can be short and it passes quickly. I want to continue to be on the FWT and be at the 2030 Olympics. I’ll be 32 years old by then, and if I have the body and mind to be at the top, I’ll do it. I love competing.
There are so many talented young skiers and snowboarders in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz right now. Trust your dreams, kids. For years I was dreaming to be on the podium of the FWT and then it happened because I trusted my dreams. You have to be ready to train more than everyone else. Some guys don’t really train and they still win, but that’s not typical. Train more, prepare more, work more. There’s still too much pleasure in ski racing. This is why most ski racers stop skiing, the coaches are so much on them, so they stop - because of their coaches. There’s no pleasure in training. Or sometimes kids ski for their parents, not for themselves. My dad told me never to give up, but he was always supportive and that’s why I’m here today.
More Info:
By Natalie Elvy
Passing Lac de Montriond twice a week en route to the Ardent Telecabine, I’d always noticed the dive centre flags, sometimes even glimpsing dark figures near the black square holes gouged into the icy surface. I wondered what could possess anyone to want to go under the ice. As bitter as it is beautiful, the lake that’s also known as Lac Vert is shrouded in shade from November until March, requiring good snow boots, thermal layers and a brisk pace just to walk around. Imagine my surprise when my husband bought me an ice-diving ‘experience’ for my 42nd birthday: he was proud of his gift as apparently I’d once agreed that diving under the ice in the Antarctic sounded incredible.
Despite my reticence, the efficiency and flexibility of the dive centre’s booking system suggested no shortage of clients keen to take up the weekend morning or afternoon slots. Individuals or small groups can book, and each diver buddies up with a divemaster throughout their time beneath the ice. Apparently there is no ‘ideal’ time to dive under the 50cm thick ice because no dive is ever the same, or warm, so it really doesn’t matter if you choose morning or afternoon, snow or shine.
I chose an afternoon slot in February and arrived at the office below the Domaine du Baron, wearing - as instructed - a base layer of a vest and thermal, long sleeved top, leggings, socks and gloves. We were four divers and three dive-masters. After introductions and extensive explanations of what was to come, we were equipped in full drysuits, complete with astronautstyle rigid, metal screw-on glove attachments. Keeping our thermals on, we were helped into the enormous suits with >>
talcum powder and brute force, eventually forcing our heads - hair held well back so nothing could break the flesh/rubber seal - through the rubber balaclava-style hoods. Kitted up, we waddled gingerly down to the edge of the lake, each tugging a little plastic sledge with our underwater kit of Buoyancy Control Device (BCD), air tank, weight belt with at least 15kgs of weights attached, mask and fins, behind us.
The lake ice is very thick and forms continuously and quickly. It had never occurred to me that the three holes visible in the ice beyond the dive flags require significant and constant maintenance. The 1.5sqm, 50cm deep holes are made by chainsawing through the ice. They have to be re-carved before dives, and the life-line - a rope that leads from hole to hole and is used to guide the divers - secured.
I was to go first as I had diving experience, although my ‘experience’ (leading American tourists around reefs in Honduras 15 years ago) had not prepared me for this. Sweaty, breathless and anxious, I sat on the edge of the hole to be loaded up with the kit from my sledge. Then I was helped to shuffle forwards, swivel around 180 degrees, and lower myself into the water tank and ass first, tummy pressing on the ice, with a dive master behind me and another on the ice above me holding onto my air tank for stability. Sinking into the calm, black water I felt its chill and pressure compressing the air in my drysuit.
Once in the water, speed is of the essence. With the regulator in my mouth and the mask over my nose, the only communication possible was solid, meaningful eye contact with my divemaster. Holding onto the life-line, we submerged ourselves directly under the opening hole (so I could easily pop back up if I became overwhelmed) before moving slowly under the ice ceiling.
There were so many sensations all at once; shock as the frigid water closed over my head; the creepy, magnified sound of my breathing catching and intensifying; grinding steps on the ice above; the cumbersome wetsuit and heavy gear rendering my body uncontrollable; my inability to find stability, buoyancy and balance, clunking into the ice-walls with my air bottle - all this within the first five seconds of descending. It was the patient, calm gaze of my divemaster as he helped untangle the life-line and adjust my position in the water, that kept panic at bay.
Having survived the initial leap of faith, my breathing steadied and I relaxed enough to swivel my eyes and look around (not daring to move my head incase I broke a seal and allowed a trickle of water in). There was nothing, just weird unfathomable darkness and the harder I tried to focus, the less I could be sure I could see: I couldn’t even see the next hole, five meters in front of me.
Then my divemaster indicated that I look up and it all changed. He blew out his bubbles and they danced like mercury across the ice ceiling. The solid surface above me was smooth but not flat - there were lumps and bumps and weird inverted patterns stretching across the rock hard underside of the ice. The bubbles crashed and oscillated all over the place - some racing, some dawdling, all in motion - even when they were stuck in depressions they’d vibrate and try to find their way upwards. It was an upside-down landscape where air flowed like water - but in the wrong direction. Like the negative of a photograph, your brain has to adjust and adapt to the reversal of the usual, accepted reality. All the diving I had done previously was about looking down and out, searching out creatures
and corals. Under the ice it is all about looking up; the play of light coming through the ice, the movement of the silvery bubbles and the slippery, reverse landscape of the underside of the ice. It’s silent and cold and green and silver.
Like a magpie with something shiny, the bubbles totally distracted me from my anxiety about being trapped under the ice. Holding the lifeline to manoeuvre myself, and now confident looking up wouldn’t cause leaks, I was keen to carry on when we reached the second hole. Heading towards the third hole, seven meters from the second one, we found a massive chunk of chainsawed ice that had been pushed under water and was pressing up under the surface ice. It was huge, I couldn’t have moved it on the surface, but when I pushed it gently it slid off and disappeared into the gloom, still stuck to the underside of the ice above.
Popping up in the third hole, I felt cold. My face was numb, my extremities sore and my joints stiff. The final descent and return to the entry/exit hole was quick. I had spent too long marvelling at the upside down, topsy-turvy world I’d never expected to discover. When I got to the exit, my lips were blue and my hands and feet were really painful. Incapable of doing much, I was pleased to be hauled out like a big black slippery seal. Unbelievably I’d been in this enchanting, gravity-less, upside-down underwater world for less than 25mins.
A local French business, providing high quality, self-catered accommodation in Morzine. With a portfolio of 24 chalets and apartments, ranging in size, style and budget. Whether it be a 2 bedroom ski in/ski out apartment, or an 8 bedroom chalet with hot tub and sauna, we pride ourselves with our flexibility and amazing locations. But it’s not just the accommodation that we care about; our concierge service comes as standard in the lead up and for the duration of your stay. Our range of extra services, including flexible catering options, means that you can create the perfect getaway.
Open summer and winter. Skiology has a varied selection of catered and self-catered properties sleeping 4-14. Morzine chalets only 200m from the lifts and town centre. Base of Avoriaz chalets (Les Prodains) only 500m from the lifts. Montriond chalets 500m from the village. Guests come back for the menu, great service and our environmental commitment, we hope to see you soon!
puremorzine.com
+33 (0)6 30 03 11 33 info@puremorzine.com
simply-morzine.co.uk
info@simply-morzine.co.uk
+44 (0) 1664 568902
We have two luxury self-catered properties available for rent winter and summer in the Portes du Soleil. These consist of one luxury chalet in the charming hamlet of Essert Romand, Chalet Aix (sleeps 8) and one high-end new apartment in Morzine town itself, Marmottiere (sleeps 8+2). Please see our website or call Richard for further details.
panthersnowco.com
+44 (0)7836 611 076
info@panthersnowco.com
7 generous bedrooms, all with balcony/terrace, in an enviable position two minutes from the Pléney lift and Morzine centre. A large garden, outdoor dining terrace, BBQ, secure bike storage, incredible views, hot tub, professional kitchen, second lounge, and locally based hosts combine to make Chalet Morzine the perfect base for your next multi-generational family or corporate group mountain holiday.
chaletmorzine.com
+ 33 (0)6 71 92 33 77 info@chaletmorzine.com
Detached, modern chalet in central Morzine with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, outdoor (under cover) hot tub, full digital entertainment (Netflix, Spotify, Alexa, Starlink Wifi, UK Freesat and French TV) and modern log burning fireplace. Only a short (400m) walk from the restaurants and bars in town, and both cable cars. Mention Morzine Source for a discount.
chaletroc.com
reservations@chaletroc.com
+33 (0) 7 57 67 66 94
Chic chalets. Awesome apartments. Fabulous food. Original and best local specialists, offering high-quality winter and summer alpine holidays since 1995. Sought-after central / on piste catered chalets, plus stunning self-catered properties in the best locations. Highly regarded amongst the local French & expat communities for having stood the test of time with quality and integrity. Unique family summer activity holidays, designed for all ages and interests. simply-morzine.co.uk
+44 (0)1664 568902
info@simpy-morzine.co.uk
45 Degrees North is a family-run business based in Morzine and we have been offering cycling and skiing/ snowboarding holidays here for 5 years. At our chalets, we aim to provide a warm, welcoming and relaxed environment for your holiday where it feels like a home away from home.
45degreesnorth.co.uk
+33 (0)7 69 44 52 69
hello@45degreesnorth.co.uk
Beautiful chalets, delicious food and a warm welcome. Catered and self-catered properties all located in the heart of Morzine - close to the lifts and village centre. Our friendly, experienced staff will make sure your holiday is one to remember. We look forward to welcoming you to Morzine! Enquire now for your next summer or winter holiday in the Alps.
northstarchalets.com
+33 (0)6 26 14 38 99
bonjour@northstarchalets.com
Your ultimate ski holiday on the doorstep of the Pleney. Olivier and Alexia welcome you to their chalet and propose you a half board. Our chalet can accommodate 10 people in the 5 en-suite bedrooms with a private wellness area including wooden spa, sauna and relaxation area. We welcome dogs too! New features for the 70th anniversary of the chalet: gifts, new decoration and new ski room!
croc-blanc-chalet.com
+33 (0)6 31 45 30 21
olivier@croc-blanc-chalet.com
Our large range of luxury self catered Morzine chalets and apartments are in walking distance of the village and lifts. We have chalets with hot tubs, saunas and cinema rooms ranging in size from 4 guests to 14 guests. Our concierge services mean you can personalise your holiday with private chefs, meal deliveries, lift passes, airport transfers, grocery and wine deliveries and more.
Located in Montriond centre, near Morzine-Avoriaz. Our chalet is well-equipped with a large capacity with its 6 en-suites bedrooms (sleeps up to 18) and its large and comfy living areas (living room, dining room, kitchen). The perfect place for mountain holidays with your friends, families or colleagues. Enjoy the breathtaking view in the outdoor jacuzzi and large very well equipped living areas. A dedicated place to share your love for outdoor activities.
rideandbreakfast.com
+33 (0)6 07 45 35 18 / +33 (0)6 11 04 28 58 contact@rideandbreakfast.com
This new chalet offers the perfect balance between a tranquil, peaceful location and the conveniences of Montriond village, just a 5 minutes walk away. In 4 bedrooms, 2 of which are en-suite, this chalet can sleep up to 12 people, making it perfect for group or family holidays. There is also a TV room and a fully-equipped kitchen to make self catering easy, plus parking too.
thelodgist.fr
+33 (0)6 11 04 28 58 / +33 (0)6 07 45 35 18 contact@thelodgist.fr
Charming ski-in, ski-out chalet located in the Goat Village (Hameau des Lindarets) in Montriond on a blue ski slope. The unusual access to this alpine chalet in winter makes it a magical place for mountain lovers. This Chalet includes 3 bedrooms, 1 dormitory, 2 bathrooms, a living/dining room, an equipped kitchen and a ski room. It’s perfect for groups of up to 11 people for a truly memorable ski holiday in the mountains.
thelodgist.fr
+33 (0)6 07 45 35 18
contact@thelodgist.fr
This unique and romantic escape with views of the stunning Lac de Montriond is the perfect place to stay for winter and summer relaxing escapes or adrenaline filled adventures and is ideally positioned for guests of weddings at the Domaine du Baron and Hotel du Lac. Sleeping up to 2 adults and 1 child, this stand-alone lodge with secluded garden, offers easy access to the Portes du Soleil.
lepetitrevemontriond.com
+33 (0)7 71 86 47 45
lepetitrevemontriond@outlook.com
Beautifully and lovingly renovated properties offering high end comfort, modern living and on top of the world views from the sought after village of La Cote d’Arbroz. From unique stays for couples in our detached stone ‘Grenier’ to breaks in our 3 bedroom apartments sleeping 6 each, we are ideal for families, friends and couples. Small family business who takes pride in prioritising your accommodation to be the best part about your holiday.
fermelesbouts.com
+33 (0)6 52 73 41 24
contact@fermelesbouts.com
This winter, we are proudly opening the doors to Morzine’s newest boutique hotel. Our tiny, independent lodge is putting a twist on the traditional alpine holiday. With delicious food shared at the communal table, our focus is on living our one wild life to the full! All meals, daily yoga, hot tub and cold dip, and a private shuttle to the mountain are all included in your stay. Book from 4 nights, from one to four bedrooms.
fatfoxlodge.com
+33 (0)7 53 79 88 23 info@fatfoxlodge.com
Overlooking the rooftops of Les Gets and just 50 metres from the free ski bus stop, Chalet Caly is an exceptional south-facing chalet with 7 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms accommodating up to 15 people. Inside you’ll discover sumptuous, contemporary interiors and a private spa including sauna, hot tub and hammam. Outside these’s a swimming pool plus spacious terraces and superb views.
portesdusoleil@barnes-international.com
+33 (0)4 89 51 48 97 barnes-portesdusoleil.com
Discover Chalet Grüezi, a recently renovated threebedroom duplex in Morzine, harmoniously blending style and comfort, comfortably accommodating 8 guests. Each bedroom has its private bathroom. The location of Chalet Grüezi is perfect, away from the noise of the town centre, but close to the amenities. A free shuttle stops right outside the flat, ensuring you reach the lifts within 5 minutes.
airbnb.com/h/chaletgruezi
+33 (0)7 85 03 85 25 chaletgruezi@gmail.com
Boutique chalet enjoying panoramic views and south-west facing exposure, in an authentic alpine setting. A traditional timber frame chalet, only the highest quality materials have been used to blend alpine charm with contemporary design. Fast access to the highest skiing in the Portes du Soleil, epic cycling from the doorstep and Lac Montriond only a stroll away. Premium facilities include EV charger, Starlink, hot-tub, home cinema, fireplace, pétanque track, outdoor fire, Big Green Egg, table tennis and children’s play area. Additional services (catering, massage, lift passes, equipment hire, activities etc.) may be arranged upon request.
chaletgrandduc.com
+41 79 929 10 20 info@chaletgrandduc.com
At the foot of the Retour de Nants slopes in Morzine, this restaurant combined with four beautiful bedrooms (3 doubles and 1 family room sleeping 4) is available to book on a bed and breakfast basis. Each room offers stunning views over the surrounding peaks and you’ll also enjoy the relaxation area including a sauna, jacuzzi and gym equipment after a long day on the slopes. Le Passionnant is run by its owners Sophie and Patrick who are available to help you plan your stay in Morzine. lepassionnantmorzine@gmail.com
+33 (0)6 46 14 80 59 le-passionnant-hotel-morzine.eatbu.com
This ski-in, ski-out apartment in Avoriaz, close to the famous Folie Douce apres-ski bar is located on the fourth floor of a modern, small residence. It’s comfortable throughout with two bedrooms (1 double and one triple), an open-plan living room and kitchen area with an additional sofa bed and a balcony overlooking the peaks and beyond. There’s also 2 bathrooms and storage space, making it deal for families or groups totalling 7 people.
thelodgist.fr
+33 (0)6 07 45 35 18 / +33 (0)6 11 04 28 58 contact@thelodgist.fr
Chalet Marialys is a newly renovated chalet on the outskirts of Morzine. This luxurious, home from home chalet has 4 luxury en-suite bedrooms sleeping up to 10 people. Relax, unwind and enjoy the stunning alpine landscape from either the balcony, hot tub or sauna. We are a self catered chalet but offer a complimentary driver service during your stay.
chaletmarialys.com
+33 (0)6 31 77 71 36 info@chaletmarialys.com
Nestled along the south side of the Morzine Valley, the Dahu offers guests a uniquely sunny location and a panorama that encompasses the emblematic mountains of the station and its lovely mountain village. Its 37 rooms, its Spa and indoor swimming pool, its panoramic restaurant and its lounges and bar offer you a haven of peace for your mountain holidays.
dahu.com
+33 (0)4 50 75 92 92 info@dahu.com
A beautifully chalet incorporating modern features allowing up to 9 guests to enjoy their winter and summer holidays. Spread over 3 levels, the ground and first floors include a storage and drying area, 1 double plus bunk en-suite bedroom and 3 double en-suite bedrooms plus access to the outdoor spa area. On the top floor we have an expansive 50m2 vaulted ceiling open plan kitchen, dining and living area with a wood burning stove leading to a large balcony with unobstructed views to Pleney, Pointe de Nyon and the surrounding mountains.
An extensive portfolio of self-catering chalets and apartments sleeping 5-13 guests. A great choice of central village locations, plus a selection of more peaceful locations away from the hustle and bustle. From comfortable to more luxurious and all at superb value. We provide a unique and personal service which is second to none from enquiry to departure. All Alptitude clients also benefit from discounted lift passes, airport transfers and ski hire.
alptitude.com
+44 (0) 7891 021 292 info@alptitude.com
Offering panoramic views over Morzine and offering easy access to the centre of the village, this chalet is perfectly equipped and comfortable, sleeping 11 people in total. The views from the south-facing terrace are particularly good! Arranged over 3 levels you’ll find a garage, TV room, sauna, 5 bedrooms and multiple bathrooms in addition to a large living room with a kitchen and dining space. The free ski bus stop is nearby.
thelodgist.fr
+33 (0)6 07 45 35 18 / +33 (0)6 11 04 28 58 contact@thelodgist.fr
Our stunning ski chalet offering 4 beautiful en-suite bedrooms (8 adults + 2children), with a newly renovated lounge/diner, separate kitchen and undoubtedly the most incredible scenery. This is a home from home just 6 minutes by car to the Morzine bars & restaurants. We are perfectly located, close enough to the action, but spoilt rotten with space, scenery and comfort. Perfectly suited to large families or groups of friends.
corner4.co.uk
+33 (0)7 49 31 31 56
sam@corner4.co.uk
A beautifully renovated semi-detached farmhouse in the tranquil hamlet of Le Lavanchy, between Montriond and Lac de Montriond. Le Refuge Au Pied d’Hauto is a comfortable blend of old and new, with traditional Savoyard workmanship sitting alongside Nordic-inspired interiors & decoration. The apartment consists of a generous 110m2 spread over two floors, with three double en-suite bedrooms.
aupieddhauto.com
+33 (0)6 43 66 76 03
contact@aupieddhauto.com
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We aim to provide a flawless experience from your first enquiry to the end of your stay. Our portfolio includes four apartments sleeping 4-6 and one chalet sleeping 8-10, furnished to a high standard and well-equipped with everything you need for a self-catered holiday. Our superb locations put you within walking distance of the ski lifts and give you immediate access to the local buses. Sales Director Jess will provide support throughout the booking process, ensuring a hassle free experience. Flexible booking option available.
morganjupe.co.uk
+44 (0) 7739 692 908 jess@morganjupe.co.uk
Modern, functional en-suite rooms, in a central Morzine location, above one of the finest restaurants in the village. Choose from twin, double and triple rooms and if you are on a budget, we also have mixed, shared 6 or 4 bed dorms. All rooms features comfortable beds with linen and towels included, en-suite bathrooms and a continental breakfast.
stayhideout.com
+33 (0) 7 68 63 48 21
info@stayhideout.com
Located on the tranquil shores of Lac de Montriond you’ll find our cosy, fun-filled hotel featuring 20 en-suite bedrooms, a beautiful bar and a restaurant with views across the lake. Stay mid-way between Morzine and Avoriaz for easy access to the pistes of the Portes du Soleil each day before retreating to our stylish, contemporary hotel each evening.
lacdemontriond.com
+33 (0) 6 03 56 85 05 info@lacdemontriond.com
Built in 1771, The Farmhouse Hotel is the oldest building in Morzine, known to the locals as ‘Le Château’. One of the most desirable hideaways in the Alps sits in the heart of this beautiful alpine village just two minutes walk from the centre. Once you have discovered this gem you will return year after year.
thefarmhouse.fr
+33 (0) 6 83 86 55 49
info@thefarmhouse.fr
Welcome to Just Morzine, our self-catered accommodation offering those who enjoy alpine holidays a comfortable stay in our 4 bedroom chalet sleeping 8, or our 2 bedroom apartment sleeping 4. Situated near the Town Hall, just a short 5-minute walk into the town and a 2-minute walk to the nearest bus stop. Both properties can be booked together fro accommodate up to 12 people, subject to availability.
justmorzine.com
+44 (0) 7734 084 417 info@justmorzine.com
A ski-in, ski-out chalet right on the Pleney piste and also just 4 minutes walk to centre of town. The 9 en-suite bedrooms can sleep up to 25 people. The spacious open-plan lounge and dining area has a log fire and large picture windows offering spectacular views and access to the large terrace and balconies, outdoor hot tub and sauna.
woodlandschalets.com
+33 (0) 7 68 66 04 64
info@woodlandschalets.comm
Luxury apartments and chalets in central Morzine. Amazing locations, hot tubs and happy staff. Concierge services and flexible catering available.
Originally an 1805 traditional farmhouse, La Fourmiliere has been re-imagined into a stunning English country house in the midst of the mountains, complete with the biggest fireplace in Morzine! Cosseted by luxurious comfort, delicious food, fabulous wines, a great bar and a vintage Land Rover to ferry you to the slopes, our mission is to make your winter holiday simply the best!
moremountain.com
+33 (0) 6 86 02 18 05 info@moremountain.com
chaletfourmiliere.com
+33 (0) 7 71 28 71 11
hello@chaletfourmiliere.com
Avoriaz Holidays and Avoriaz Premium offer all you need to plan a perfect holiday in the Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort. All properties are ski-in, ski-out, bed linen is included (breakfast delivery and dedicated concierge service included with Avoriaz Premium), and we arrange discounts on ski passes and equipment rental on your behalf. Here's a selection of our properties:
Located in the oldest neighbourhood of Avoriaz, facing the Dromonts Hotel, discover these 2 incredible chalets. Modern, spacious and designed with high quality materials, the chalets have a capacity of 11 guests.Built in a traditional 'alpine' style but with all the perks of a new build, they will make you feel settled in and relaxed from the moment you walk in. Available to rent from 7’332 € per week.
An exceptional modern alpine living space set in a prime central location. Designed
architectural style, upon which Avoriaz is
Chalet
is comprised of 5 luxury-grade triplex apartments each able to accommodate 10 to 14 people, with quality interior design and decor and 400 m2 of shared space dedicated to spa, heated pool and ski room. There is also a fitness room and a massage room. Available to rent from 6’957 € per week.
Located in Falaise district, this modernised 3-room apartment with a surface of 51.21m2 is ideally placed with quick access to the slopes and the village. Ideal for 5-7 people, there is 1 double bedroom, a bunk room and sofa-beds in the living room. It offers a fully-quipped open kitchen, a large living/dining space with high ceilings and a south facing balcony with magnificent views of the mountains and valley. Available to rent from 2’252 € per week.
This beautiful contemporary apartment sleeps 10 people in 5 bedrooms. It has a bright and spacious living room with a large fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Other features include heated boot warmers, laundry room, private sauna, access to an indoor swimming pool, hammam and south facing balconies with magnificent views.
Available to rent from 3’581€ per week.
Amazing 340 m2 chalet accommodating 16 people on 3 floors located in the Ruches area of the resort. With an extension built in 2017, this large chalet has high-end furniture; home cinema, sauna, two living rooms, fire place and 8 bedrooms. Thanks to its central location and comfort, the chalet is ideal for a perfect stay.
Available to rent from 10’114 € per week.
Le bus s’arrête fréquemment juste devant l’hôtel, vous amenant à la Télécabine d’Ardent en seulement quatre minutes. It’s one of the largest linked ski areas in the world, spanning 650km, 12 different ski resorts and two countries with pistes to suit all kinds of skier and snowboarder. Hotel du Lac guests enjoy quick and easy access to the ski lifts of Avoriaz and the Portes du Soleil via the free bus service, which stops frequently directly outside of the hotel, delivering you to the Ardent Télècabine in just four minutes.
UNE PROMENADE DANS LA NATURE // A WALK THROUGH NATURE // Tout est calme et tranquille autour du lac de Montriond pendant les mois d’hiver, ce qui en fait la destination idéale pour ceux qui apprécient des vacances à la montagne plus paisibles. Alors que le lac lui-même est gelé pendant une grande partie de l’hiver, vous découvrirez que le sentier pédestre qui fait le tour du lac est régulièrement entretenu pour être facile à parcourir. Explorez les sentiers tracés par les animaux locaux et regardez les plongeurs disparaître sous la glace avant de vous installer confortablement dans les canapés devant notre cheminée pour un chocolat ou un vin chaud.
All is calm and quiet around Lac de Montriond during the winter months, making this the perfect destination for those who enjoy a more peaceful mountain holiday. Whilst the lake itself is frozen for much of the winter, you’ll discover that the walking path that circumnavigates the lake is regularly maintained to be easy underfoot. Explore the trails made by local animals and watch the divers disappear beneath the ice before retreating to the comfy sofas in front of our fireplace for a warming hot chocolate or vin chaud.
As previewed in our Summer 23 magazine, the team at Hotel du Lac on Lac de Montriond commissioned artist RP Roberts to create a hand-drawn sketch of everyone’s favourite mountain lake; complete with activities and viewpoints from around its famous shoreline during both the winter and summer seasons, free copies of the map are available to collect from the reception area inside Hotel du Lac this winter. Pop in and help yourself!
Using a drone to climb high above the cliffs on the south side of the Lac, images were taken to provide RP Roberts with the profile of the shoreline. He then began work sketching the outline, adding in various landmarks along the way and of course the famous turquoise colour that we see during the summer season. The team at Hotel du Lac specified some of the most visit-worthy attractions around the lake, such as the slate mines, the Domaine du Baron and the Cascade d’Ardent. Individual drawings were also created to accompany the larger map - you’ll see the famous church of Montriond resting in the characterful village square, one of your favourite goats from the Goat Village and Ardent’s Télécabine too.
Dual-language text also features on the map, explaining how the lake was originally formed thousands of years ago when a rockfall from neighbouring Nantaux dammed a river, creating a natural lake that filled with springtime snow melt. It details the wildlife you’re likely to find within its waters and in the surrounding forests, in addition to the history of the slate mines. Combined, the whole map is a stunning work of art and one of the most desirable collectables from your holiday spent in our region.
AUTHENTIC
What’s does your morning routine look like?
I answer any emails that have come through from the day before, pet the dog and head to my studio in Morzine. I like to make sure that I have at least at hour in the studio before my first client arrives so I can prepare everything for the day ahead. I usually arrive around 9am and preparing for my first client of the day usually includes setting up my tattoo station, doing any last bits of cleaning, and of course heading to the bakery for some important pastry-based fuel.
Who are your typical clients in Morzine? Locals, holiday makers or a mix of both?
It really depends. I have worked hard over the years to make sure Morzine Tattoo is a welcoming space for all; where no one feels intimidated, or like they don’t belong. Tattoos and tattoo studios have certainly gained a bad reputation over the years, especially when historically they have been owned by cigarette touting burley biker types who affectionately go by the name ‘Knuckles’. My long standing pursuit has always been that I wanted the studio to feel like you were visiting your Granny’s house, complete with a hot drink and a biscuit on arrival. I try to accommodate everyone, whether you’re a well established, long-term resident wanting a full arm piece, or someone who is on holiday and looking for a little souvenir of your trip.
What’s the most exciting project you’ve worked on?
My heart really lies in black and grey neo-traditional work. I studied Illustration at University and, although a degree isn’t necessary to become a tattooer, it certainly pushes my work down the more illustrative, playful route. Character design really lights my soul but honestly, I'm generally in my happy place as long as I am tattooing and meeting people.
What do you tell people who are uncertain about getting their first tattoo?
It doesn’t hurt as much as you think it is going to. Honestly. I would also say trust your instinct and be sure of your decision. It’s ok to sit on a tattoo idea for a few years before you visit a studio. Also, find someone whose style aligns with your vision. Finding your tattooer should be like finding a good fitting pair of shoes. I am always happy to recommend other tattooers if I truly believe a project could be better executed by someone with a more suitable style. To be a good, conscientious tattooer means being loyal to your clients, guiding them appropriately in the right direction, even if that direction is not you.
What’s the most satisfying part of your day?
The split second when a client sees their tattoo on their body in the mirror for the first time. Their physical appearance, whether in a small or a large way, has been forever altered. The process of autonomy over your own body and actively making changes to positively alter it can be very empowering.
What exciting things do you have planned for this winter?
I’m evolving the studio and continuing to develop my own tattoo style. I am always conscious of the pursuit of betterment, both personally and professionally. Every winter brings with it completely fresh clients with fresh ideas. That is one of the beautiful things about living in such a transient place - the new people I get to meet every season. Also, of course, the ever present excitement of being able to get the snowboard out of storage again!
More Info:
You’ll find Liane and her Morzine Tattoo studio inside the Place du Baraty, which is just off the main square in Morzine. Follow her on Instagram at @greenydraws and email greenydrawstattoos@gmail.com for appointment availability.
Dinner: 6:30pm to 1am Dîner : 18h30 à 1h
+33 (0)4 50 86 31 12 reservation@vina-annapurna.com 2421 route des Grandes Alpes, 74260 Les Gets
Lunch & Après-ski - Sunny terrace, ski-in ski-out: 10am to 6pm
Déjeuner & Après-ski - Terrasse ensoleillée, skis aux pieds : 10h à 18h
+33 (0)4 50 75 80 66 - reservation@croixblanche-lesgets.com 3973 route des Chavannes, 74260 Les Gets
‘Artificial’,
‘cultured’ or ‘manufactured’; it matters not what you call it, the reality is that in current times, almost every winter resort in the world relies on snow making technology to varying extents in order to host your winter holiday. Climate change and rising snow lines have deepened our dependency on the science behind the production of fake snow.
According to history, the first snow cannon was invented in 1950 by Americans Art Hunt, Dave Rickey and Wayne Pierce. They discovered that forcing water and pressurised air through a ‘gun’ mounted above a slope in cold conditions would cause the water to freeze and fall to the ground as snow. This ‘groundbreaking’ new technology was first put to use in 1952 and has been modified considerably in the decades that followed.
Statistics indicate that between 1960 and 2017, the average Alpine winter season has reduced in length by 38 days. It now begins 12 days later and ends 26 days earlier than previously and throughout most of that winter season, ski resorts supplement the volume of natural snow falling from the sky with artificial snow. Typically, water is extracted from nearby
reservoirs and fed to the network of piste-side cannons across a ski area. As soon as temperatures drop to zero degrees or below, the cannons come to life. When temperatures allow, we’ll often see the snow cannons on our local slopes running in November to create a base on the pistes, or in the springtime to produce a top-up. You’ll know when you’re skiing on artificial snow; it’s compact - in fact it’s four times denser than natural snowand it makes a distinct scratchy noise under your skis or snowboard. The composition of artificial snow also means that it lasts much longer than the naturally derived alternative. But is the amount of water and energy snow cannons consume contributing to the very problem they’re trying to solve? Can snow making ever be good? Is artificial snow better than no snow at all?
Over the years, a number of new snow-making products and innovations have been introduced by a rapidly expanding industry. SnowFactory by Italian company TechnoAlpin makes snow inside a refrigerated shipping container, regardless of the air temperature outside. Designed to supplement the existing snow cannon network in a ski resort, these little boxes mounted on hillsides can produce snow 24/7, which is then moved to cover bare pistes or top up coverage across a ski area. It’s estimated however that they consume four times more energy than regular snow cannons.
Elsewhere in the TechnoAlpin range there’s a long list of the traditional fan guns - both stationary and portable - with an increasingly long list of sustainability improvements.
In November 2023 the company published a sustainability report - the first of its kind in the industry - detailing its innovations, improvements in energy efficiency and climate adaptation, water and wastewater management and so on. Inside the report, TechnoAlpin Managing Director Erich Gummerer states the company aim to “contribute to greater sustainability by channelling our efforts to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly systems.”
On the slopes of Les Gets you’ll likely notice the bright blue Demaclenko snow cannon network, especially around the Ranfoilly bowl. Installed in recent years, these cannons are fed from a large reservoir above the bowl. Demaclenko claim their cannons run on 20% less power than rival systems while delivering the same artificial snow production. They’ve also created Snowvisual 4.0, a fully automated snowmaking system to replace the manual operation of snow cannons. When installed on a snow cannon network, the software encourages minimal resource consumption with real-time tracking of snow coverage and reports on water consumption.
It’s fair to say that snow cannons are a significant yet necessary investment for ski resort operators and it’s easy to argue that our mountain villages wouldn’t survive without the winter tourist economy. Reading the weighty sustainability reports and innovations introduced by the
largest manufacturers in the industry clearly indicates a drive to make snowmaking as clean as possible. Snowmaking advocates also argue that 80% of the water used in the production of artificial snow returns to the watershed when it melts. But does that make them harmless?
Montagne Verte are our local non-profit association charged with developing sustainable solutions for Morzine and our surrounding villages. Since 2019 they’ve worked continuously to inform, inspire, encourage and integrate sustainability projects into our community while educating and supporting local businesses to reduce their environmental impact. “Snow cannons make snow using only
water and air - EU regulations mean chemicals are banned,” Montagne Verte President Al Judge explains. “The carbon emissions associated with their operation is minimal when compared to flights to and from Geneva, which make up 50-75% of the emissions of a ski holiday,” Al continues. “However, they are very problematic for biodiversity due to the reservoirs that are created to supply the cannons with water. These reservoirs seriously disrupt the water sources that local flora and fauna depend on to thrive. At a time when water is increasingly becoming a scarce resource, these reservoirs also create conflicts of usage. The proposed large reservoir in the Super Morzine area is likely to do this too.”
Two hundred years ago, high up on the famous St. Bernard pass in the Swiss Alps, lived a St. Bernard dog named Barry (or Bari, which means ‘little bear’ in Bernese dialect). His home was the Great St. Bernard Hospice, located at an altitude of 2,469 metres and he shared it with a group of Augustinian monks. The hospice gave refuge to merchants crossing the Swiss-Italian border with their wares, farmers driving down their cattle ahead of the arrival of winter, pilgrims making route towards Rome and hikers taking in the spectacular highaltitude scenery. At some point in the preceding century, the monks had begun keeping this particular breed of Alpine mastiff dog to assist with rescues on the mountain; they’d search for lost travellers using their incredible sense of smell and assist with avalanche rescues.
As legend has it, between the years 1800 and 1814, Barry the Dog saved no fewer than 40 people using his specialist mountain rescue skills. According to records made by the monks at the time, Barry worked alone, heading out into the snow in treacherous conditions and dragging back avalanche victims after digging them out. Only when a rescue proved too much for him would he raise the help of the monks. Anyone that knows anything about the famous dogs of the St. Bernard Pass will also have noticed the small barrels around their necks. As the story goes, they’d contain rum or brandy for consumption by any weary travellers discovered on the mountain.
One tale tells of Barry being killed during his 41st rescue. While trying to revive an unconscious soldier of Napoleon’s army, the man woke, mistook Barry for a wolf, and stabbed him with his bayonet. At the Asniéres-sur-Seine dog cemetery in Paris you’ll even find a memorial to Barry, marked ‘He saved the lives of 40 people… and was killed by the 41st!’ More likely however, is the tale that sees Barry retire to the Swiss capital Bern after 12 years of loyal service. His body was embalmed and is still on display at the Natural History Museum in the city today.
But that’s not where the legend of Barry ends. John Lawton was an
American inventor; in the early 1960s he’d had the idea to develop a radiolike device that could locate victims buried in snow. In 1968, the Swiss Army enhanced the technology and they called their device The Barryvox. The name means ‘voice of Barry’ and draws an association between the bark of Barry as he was approaching a buried casualty during his own rescues, and the beeping tone of the avalanche transceiver you’ll hear nowadays. The Barryvox VA 68 was initially used only by the Swiss Army before it was eventually released for civilian use in 1974. By 1994, well over 100,000 Barryvox devices has been sold, substantially reducing the number of avalanche deaths around
the world and giving those who venture out into the snow-capped mountains more confidence in their endeavours.
For the unfamiliar, avalanche transceivers are worn by those who like to head off-piste, far beyond the secured runs of a ski area. These hardened skiers and snowboarders know that they should check snow and weather conditions in advance, they’ll plan their routes and they’ll observe the snow around them as they go. They’ll even take a guide with them to help with all of the above. They’ll also check that everyone in their group is wearing a transceiver, which will continuously emit a radio signal that can be received by other transceivers in the area. Should an avalanche occur, transceivers can be switched to ‘search’ mode, allowing rescue teams to pinpoint the location of a buried person before using probes and shovels included in their backpacks to rescue them from under the snow.
Swiss mountain sports brand Mammut now own the Barryvox technology, which they’ve continued to develop over the years. The early 2000s brought a significant technological breakthrough, with the addition of a new range of functions for technical searches in the mountains. Their updated Barryvox featured three antennas to ensure greater accuracy on a greater range for a faster rescue. The current day Barrybox S is widely regarded as the best in class, with an effective search strip of 70 metres. In the event of an avalanche, a visual interface shows the distance, direction and even the number of buried victims, continuously guiding rescuers with interactive graphics. It’s almost as intuitive as the original Barry.
by michael Henderson
In the colourful history of standing sideways on snow, Jake Burton is often regarded as the inventor of modern day snowboarding. But at his side from the very early days, and playing a significant part in the creation of snowboarding as a sub-culture, was designer Michael Jäger.
As a designer, my formative years were certainly influenced by the aesthetic of snowboarding as a culture; I could even attribute my life in the mountains today to those influences. So when our cover artist Dylan Fant offered to introduce me to his old boss Michael Jäger, the answer was a resounding yes. Let’s dig deep into the history of snowboarding as art.
“I grew up on a small farm 45-minutes outside of Vermont, in the northeast corner of the US, right near the Canadian border. I was dyslexic, but of course no one knew what that meant in the early ‘60s. I was just the kid who couldn’t read very well and made letters backwards and things like that. I had major issues with math, reading, I struggled on a lot of levels. But I could draw; and I had weird ideas so somehow I found my way into art. We had no money but my mum was really supportive and she kept nurturing me.
I think back to my schooldays now, the dyslexia, the way it shaped me and made me find something that I enjoyed and was good at, and now I’m like… yeah, it’s cool. When I was six or something, I won this little art contest. We had to draw Santa Claus, from memory I won a $20 gift certificate from a local department store and I used it to buy a Christmas gift for my mum. Honestly, I think these little formative things shape whatever you do, and what you imagine to be possible.
Our farm was right at the base of a small mountain and on the other side was a 400m-long tractor motor ski lift with a toe rope. I’d hike over and ski, long before snowboarding was really even invented. That was really formative; hiking, skiing, biking, skateboarding, motocross, that was the world for me, but always with art too. I found escape in music; Hendrix, The Beatles, Black Sabbath, I became pretty fixated on the art that was on
Art college was the right place at the right time for me. In Montreal back then I had typography teachers from Holland, illustration tutors from the UK, American teachers from the New York scene and of course Canadian teachers too. After college I returned to Vermont with the intention of moving on to New Orleans and doing album covers. I never got there. Instead I stayed in Burlington, which is the largest city in Vermont, and I started a little studio doing design work for a bunch of brands including IBM, who had a big division here. The years passed, I got married, had a family and all of a sudden we had a multi-disciplinary studio, working on industrial design, graphic design strategy, writing, video and eventually online stuff. Right outside of our studio - which was in the basement of our house - we built a skate ramp and we called it The Swamp. We’d all skate there into the night, in the middle of the woods, it was a crazy space. A lot of snowboarders would come and hang with us and it was around this time that Jake Burton and I first discovered each other. He was in southern Vermont, a couple of hours away, in a barn with 15 people pressing snowboards. He had a little retail shop, but snowboarders weren’t even allowed on most mountains back then.
Some of the first projects that Jake and I worked on together were board graphics. Ski graphics at that point in history were basically big logos, heavily inspired by racing skis and very much like a Formula One race car in style. But when I got my hands on Jake’s early snowboards, I just saw immediately, snowboard graphics could be album covers. That turned into a lot of experimental stuff, including taking a painting of Christ, compressing the head and stretching the whole length over a snowboard in homage to a skateboard trick called the Christair. We also did a lot of hand-painted stuff and so much of the typography was made on an early computer.
During the first weekend of October each year, Jake would host his ‘fall bash’, an insane party at his house with live bands, riders, everyone hanging out. We went along to present our first
board graphics to him, we’d been invited and we go along thinking it’d be this presentation to Jake and the Burton Snowboards crew. We had all these boards, comp sizes boards, probably about 50 or 60 different concepts, all in half size that we’d hand-cut to the shape of boards, specifically for this event. We get down there and nothings organised, everyone’s drinking and partying and at like midnight, eventually we get to present the boards. The boards are then laid all over the house, drunk people everywhere, and that’s how we picked the new line. It was so beautiful. As I think about it now, it was just so incredible. Burton was shaping the culture of snowboarding and this is how it all came about.
From then on, we had this thing called the ‘round table’. Jake’s office was just a couch with a big table and you’d throw your stuff on it and talk. He always maintained pretty chill conditions, to just be real, just to talk about things. And when snowboarding exploded, it was born from moments like that. This was all in 1987, ’88, ’89, all sideways sports from skate, surf, snow, the whole youth culture thing combined with punk rock, hip hop, art, style, fashion, everything collided and snowboarding was right at the heart of it. We were very fortunate, honestly, that Jake and Burton Snowboards were growing. He and his wife Donna, they knew what they were doing, to scale things. And instead of moving their business to California, because the snowboard scene was going off down there, they eventually moved their business to Burlington, so now we’re like two minutes away from each other instead of two hours.
“everything collided and snowboarding was right at the heart of it”
At this stage we started doing everything design-wise for Burton Snowboards. The board designs, catalogues, every tag on every product. The colours, the boots, everything. Every sticker, every poster, you name it, we did it. Every video, every advert, we touched every product in some way. We were one being and our businesses grew together. But the board designs were so important to me. People who are really into snowboarding, they keep their boards in their bedrooms. They build a relationship with their boards. The graphics on them burn into your memory, they become part of you. That carries a lot of responsibility as a designer, you’ve got to think about what it is you’re putting out there, what you’re >>
communicating. And these days, you might see an old board, recognise it and be like, ‘Oh my god!’ You’ll remember the first time you did a certain trick, who you were with, and it’s just like with album covers.
I had riders like Terje Haakonsen come to me to design the graphics for his first signature pro model and I was very fortunate to work with some of the real, iconic, influential snowboarders; the ones who had real selfexpression. These boards were developed through conversations - as designers, we didn’t make preconceived ideas. We all hung together, we got a feel for a graphic, we determined what we wanted it to say, what the rider wanted to feel. We let the ideas flow to see where they would take us. And this is why I think AI can never replace a human when it comes to design.
Obviously competition in snowboard manufacturing starts getting wild ten years later. Jake Burton was a pioneer, he blazed the trail, but then of course Nike wants in, Adidas wants in. They’re all industry heavyweights with a bunch of smart people and all kinds of cool stuff happened, but when Solomon dropped in, it was no joke. These guys kew what the hell they were doing, from engineering incredible products to knowing how to market them. We stayed with Jake and with Burton all through that, and a few decades on they took pretty much everything in-house. They’ve got like 50 people doing their marketing, a dozen people working on board graphics internally, but we still work on a few select projects. We’ve a long-term, legacy relationship with the brand now, we worked on a book about Jake’s life after he sadly passed a few years ago, and an HBO documentary too. The Ride for Jake day is a really special project and we were involved in the strategy and creating its identity.
These days I look back at the times when snowboarders weren’t even allowed in the mountains. Honestly, I think snowboarding was probably the best thing to happen to the winter sports industry. It’s like what punk rock
“We’d wake up each day thinking ‘what can we do today to drive skiers crazy?”
did to glam rock. Skiing had become elitist, expensive, untouchable for most people. The style, the vibe was very inaccessible. But the first snowboards weren’t designed to be in resorts, they were for back country fun stuff. They grew and changed but snowboarders had a different way of looking at things and that really shook the foundation of ski culture in a very powerful way. Skiing needed a nemesis, that friction created change. It was all very entertaining, when I was in the thick of it, like an ‘us against them’ thing. We’d wake up each
day thinking ‘what can we do today to drive skiers crazy?’
No one gets too worked up about that these days though. Some people will snowboard in the morning, ski in the afternoon. When I was growing up there was the skateboard kids and the soccer kids, they never hung out together. Now a kid might skateboard to soccer practise, it’s all blurred, which is beautiful.
These days people don’t buy so much equipment any more; they lease it. Their level of commitment to a lifestyle is like… I’m a snowboarder, or I’m a skier, or I’m a surfer. It’s not quite as identity-powered as it was. The culture has changed and I often wonder, where did that energy go? E-sports, that’s where. Now, the coolest kids are doing e-sports, and they’re on teams. They’re being super-creative in a digital space, they have a style, an attitude. Elsewhere, in the real world, I see a new phenomenon that’s a reconnection with nature as well. To me, young farmers are some of the coolest people right now. It’s super inspirational, doing something organic in food. That’s what I always look at; the people that are influencing and shaping cultural direction, what are they doing? What are they aspiring to? What happened to the global food system as a result of the freaking war in Ukraine, that’s a wake-up call. Jake and I would always agree that snowboards are basically toys. We made toys for people to entertain themselves and have fun with, but we were never changing the world.
Eventually, after all these fun times, I made a big decision to transition our business into Solidarity of Unbridled Labour, which is my design studio now. I just needed to simplify my life; at one point, with the old studio, we had like 25 people just working on colour trends. Now we work on strategy, identity, logo, packaging and communication. We still work on projects all over the world, and I still work on speciality projects for Burton Snowboards, but we’re like 15-20 people now and that’s the sweet spot.”
When Maureen Hansman opened ‘Simple et de bon goût’, her pop-up gallery boutique on Morzine’s rue du Bourg in autumn 2023, she had one objective. As a potter herself, she wanted to bring together a collection of beautiful, artisan items including artwork, sculpture, handmade candles, stationary, antique furniture, jewellery and clothing.
“Speaking with some artists from around Morzine, I had the idea to create a space where we could show what we make, meet people and organise events and workshops,” Maureen explains. “This is a place where vintage glassware from a Parisian family sits on furniture resorted in Les Gets, alongside sculpture and ceramics made locally,” Maureen continues. The result is a community space dedicated to simple yet beautiful treasures from local craftspeople, and beyond. It’s a place to visit and it’s also a place to sell and shop in a different way. Here we meet some of the makers.
I N T I I K is a furniture restoration specialist, forging links between traditional pieces such as chairs and tables with modern tones and contemporary preferences.
“Rather than produce new items of furniture, I collect, conserve and restore objects, mainly from the 17th to 20th century. I’m a life-long lover of curiosities, antiques and design and I like to throw these elements into the mix when I’m restoring furniture. The Haute Savoie has a rich history of vernacular furniture and objects, here necessity is the mother of invention, which leads us to discover many unique folk art pieces.
At Simple… you’ll discover a selection of my furniture, pottery and objets d’art from a range of periods and you can discover more of my work on Instagram - @i.n.t.i.i.k”
Unciquième by artist Francine Fournat offers us a stylised and subjugating illustrative representation of portraits in motion. The collection of sculptures indicate that the mind is everywhere and thousands of small details capture movement and fascination.
“Unciquième is a sculpture project in papier mâché, which sometimes I have photographed in black and white before drawing directly onto the print as a new interpretation; to tell another story. I’m inspired by everything around me; the moss on a tree stump, the wind at the top of a mountain pass, a bat that flies away. All of these things give birth to hybrid characters in my mind, small critters in a state of amazement that question us with their eyes. Everything ‘up there’ allows me to better grasp the beauty of the world, but also its fragility. At Simple… you’ll find some of my sculptures and drawings as well as a collaboration with Maureen and her ceramics work. I also plan to host some events in the gallery too.
You can find more of my work on Instagram - @uncinquieme ”
Héléne Richard is an artist working on different materials, such as paper and sewn fabric. These things allow her to construct and then deconstruct her work, leaving the framework in place, while the rigidity of the wood requires her to master the gesture in a very contemporary way.
“My works are abstract and made with different mediums such as acrylic painting, pastel and felt. I work with paper and sewn fabric, as well as painting on wood. I’ve no preconceived ideas when I begin each piece. My work is born from the heart and the gesture; I paint, I sew, I build and I deconstruct. It’s the verticality, shape and colour that are my tools of work and that guide my creativity. I grew up in Morzine so I can say that the mountains flow through my veins! The colours, the trees, the changing seasons, the perspectives and the summits; you can see all of this in my abstract paintings if you look carefully. At Simple… I present paintings on paper and fabric, as well as photographic work too.
My latest pieces are also on Instagram - @helene_richard_”
Lara Blanchard is an artist specialising in dry point engraving on textiles died with black tea. By hand, she adds real gold leaf and watercolour to pieces in addition to working on sculpture made from white ceramic and handmade felt.
“My inspiration comes from nature, from the animal world and from our own mysterious animality. The life sciences, things like botany, zoology, anatomy and entomology also influence my work. Where I live hugely impacts my work. Being in the mountains, with the forests, long walks and the impromptu encounters with the fauna feed me and feed my work when engraving and with sculpture. At Simple… at the moment you’ll find my small size embroiled engravings (12x16 inches), and also some larger pieces. I’ve a workshop in St Jean d’Aulps, which you’re very welcome to visit, and I also exhibit in galleries in France and abroad.
More of my work can be found on Instagram - @laraorsolupa”
Marine Picard is an engraver based on Thonon-les-Bains on the shores of Lac Leman. A geographer by profession, she discovered engraving during a trip to Denmark two years ago and loves the simple and graphic way the technique can stylise natural elements.
“We love what amazes us, and we protect what we love,” said Jacques-Yves Cousteau. I am an engraver, specialising in linocutting and I create prints in different formats. Because the result of printing the stamp with the press is random, each work is unique and singular. My inspiration is drawn from observing wildlife, travelling and everyday details. I’m fascinated by the folk art that I’ve discovered during my travels, particular in Nordic culture. Mountain environments, lines and reliefs are all part of my work. I observe the flora, the changes in light, the impact of man. The marvellous is everywhere for those who know how to see it. At Simple… you’ll discover my original creations in both A4 and A5 format, as well as cards too.
On Instagram, I’m @encrevive_gravure”
In addition to being the owner of Simple et de bon goût, Maureen also creates ceramics under the title Le Chant de la Terre Ceramics. She makes mostly functional objects from stoneware and porcelain, but also unique, decorative pieces and jewellery too.
“My inspiration comes from life. Just living, and taking the time to process life by creating something. I ask myself questions through making things. My pieces now end up being simple forms, it’s the simplicity that interests me. Making something functional and beautiful. I need the calm and the quiet of the mountains surrounding us, but there’s also a lot of energy in nature; I need that too! My home in the mountains provides me with Sthira/Sukha or something like being safe and stable, but also open and fluid. Feeling safe and collected to where I live allows me to feel free and creative. Within Simple… at the moment I’m exhibiting all examples of my ceramic work, in addition to my curation of some vintage or second hand objects, including furniture and clothing. There’s a few things that I’ve fallen in love with and I hope others will too.
More of my work is available to view on Instagram - @lechantdelaterreceramics ”
You’ll find Simple et de bon goût at 91, rue du Bourg in the centre of Morzine. You’re welcome to pop in for a browse and to meet Maureen between 10am and 12.30pm and between 3pm and 7pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Make sure you’re following the boutique on Instagram - @simple_etdebongout for updates and events news.
By Elise Blugeon
“Many Morzine Source Magazine readers will see one of our distinctive red, green and white helicopters in the skies above the Portes du Soleil this winter. Please give us a wave, we’ll always try to wave back! Typically, we’ll be doing aerial work, transporting goods to mountain refuges, assisting in repairs or transporting passengers. Sometimes we’ll be engaged in a rescue situation and our teams are trained to intervene quickly in mountain areas that are difficult to access.”
“Blugeon Helicopteres was established by my father Christian Blugeon in 1998. He started work as a goat keeper, then he became a ski instructor, a ski patroller and then a plumber. He’s from the ski resort of Les Arcs, where he also worked as a snow groomer in his early years. After all of those roles, he started work for the company who built the chairlifts we all see and use in the mountains today. During these projects he tied the loads to the helicopters that were commissioned to assist with the construction and one day he said simply, ‘one day I’ll be in the helicopter. I’ll do this work’.
As you can probably imagine, becoming a pilot requires a lot of money, which he didn’t have. And since my grandparents had no money either, they weren’t able to help him. So he continued working hard and saving all of the money he could, always putting money aside. At the end of each working day he’d study all night to become a pilot. He literally started from nothing and did everything himself. Eventually he became a qualified pilot in 1995 and that’s where the Blugeon Helicopteres
story begins. He gained several years of experience and then decided to create his own helicopter company, just like the ones he’d observed in the mountains years earlier.
Of course my father was the only one in the business back then. For eight hours each day he’d be flying the helicopter and once finished, he’d be in the office doing all of the paperwork. He was the only one working on the commercial part of the business, doing the flying, looking after the finances. Today, 26 years later, here we are, four children working for their father and we’re an exceptionally strong team. We now have six helicopters and we work across the Alps, in the Pyrenees and elsewhere in France.
As you might expect, my father is still flying. He’s accumulated 33,000 hours in the cockpit, making him one of the most experienced helicopter pilots in Europe. He taught each of my three brothers - Sebastien, Hugo and Victor - to become pilots too. Sylvain and Brice also work as part of our team, they are exceptional pilots and have five other >>
members of the ground crew. It’s their role to ensure security between the ground and the pilot in addition to maintenance work and organising our base just below the Fys chairlift on the Route des Nants in Morzine. We also have three wonderful people in our office too. As for me, I took an alternative route and instead studied communications in The States before returning to Morzine to work in the family business. It’s a pleasure to look after the communications and marketing for Blugeon Helicopteres and to arrange the logistics involved in our leisure flights too.
From the end of each winter season to the beginning of the next, 90% of our work is specialised aerial work. This involves assisting the lift operating companies and ski lift manufacturers in the replacement or construction of new ski lift pylons; you’ll often see them hanging from beneath our helicopters! Of course many maintenance tasks must be done on the existing ski lift infrastructure too, so we assist with that from the air. Aerial work is also required for the construction of some chalets, especially those in locations that are difficult to access by road. We also deliver food supplies to mountain refuges, assist in the construction of new mountain refuges and carry pipework into the mountains too, as well as helping in the construction of antennas, we literally do everything!
During the winter season, this all changes of course. We undertake a lot of passenger transportation between airports and ski resorts across the Alps, our leisure trips are also very popular amongst holiday makers who wish to see the Alps from a different perspective. Both locally and across France, Blugeon Helicopteres is also mandated to engage in rescue work and we’re
Info: Visit blugeon-helicopteres.com. You can also follow the team on Instagram for updates from the mountains - @blugeonhelicopteres
often asked to assist when skiers or snowboarders get into difficulty in the mountains. Aerial support in this instance is often the fastest and safest way to conclude a mountain rescue situation and our teams are required to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for this purpose. We’re also enlisted to assist with the triggering of avalanches to secure the slopes after a heavy snowfall and at large public and private events to ensure their safety.
We’ve had to adapt our business in many ways in recent years. The regulations regarding our operation have changed a lot, but at the same time, the variety and demand of our aerial work continues to grow. At the end of the day, my brothers and I are extremely proud of our father and the things he has achieved from nothing. He had his ups and his downs but he never gave up and this is a very strong lesson for all of us. Of course he made a lot of sacrifices, for example we never went on holidays as children because he was always working extremely hard, every day, all year. But these days I love being in the helicopter with him, watching the aerial work take place and we all continue to learn from him. He’s proof that we can succeed and achieve our dreams, even if we start from nothing. With willpower, there is no reason not to.
I’m happy to report that these days, my father does eventually take some time for himself, to enjoy the life that he has created for his family. He enjoys various sports such as cycling, hiking, skiing and ski touring but the sport he is most passionate about (after flying!) is golf! He plays at every opportunity, often with my brothers. Even though we all work together, my best days are those spent ski touring with my father during the winter; family time is the most precious time there is.”
Introducing a masterpiece of alpine refinement in the ever-popular village of Essert Romand. This renovated farmhouse is a luxurious sanctuary and a testament to uncompromising quality and design. No expense has been spared in creating this harmony of space and elegance, with a total of 6 resplendent bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. Outside, the most beautifully landscaped garden offers sunny patios for moments of repose, a sheltered space for dining, and a spa area for the ultimate in relaxation. You would be hard-pressed to find a more perfect expression of quality and design than Ferme les Rosiers.
MORE INFO:
Ailsa Bishop - Alpine Property +33 (0)6 71 14 68 08 | ailsa@alpine-property.com alpine-property.com
Ideally located at the bottom of the Pleney ski slopes in Morzine and just a few minutes walk from the heart of the village, discover this authentic Savoyarde chalet on a 693m2 plot with panoramic views over the mountains and valley. Enjoy the sun-drenched terrace and enjoy skiing on the slopes of the Portes du Soleil from your doorstep. Walking and cycling trails are also within easy reach. The property comprises a beautiful, open plan living and dining area with kitchen, 3 bedrooms and a mezzanine, plus large garage. Don’t miss this rare ski-in, ski-out chalet!
MORE INFO: Agence Les Juliettes +33 (0)4 50 79 87 60 | agence@lesjuliettesimmo.com lesjuliettesimmo.com
A stunning, detached chalet in a quiet location in the centre of Morzine. Chalet Tremplin was beautifully renovated in 2022 and is just minutes’ walk away from the ski lifts, shops and restaurants. With 5 en-suite double bedrooms and an open plan living and dining space onto a large terrace with outdoor hot-tub, the chalet is perfect for families or groups of friends. It has a cosy cinema room, modern kitchen, well equipped boot room and a laundry room. With a high-quality finish, fantastic location and great facilities, this is an appealing, turnkey property with excellent rental prospects.
MORE INFO: Mountain Base - Knight Frank +33 (0)4 80 96 50 03 | sales@mountain-base.com mountain-base.com/chalet-tremplin
Our local estate agents continue to report high demand for properties in all locations, budgets and conditions at the moment, making those that do come on the market exceptionally hot right now. Here’s our selection of of some fantastic homes for sale across Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz, you’ll find more on our @morzinehomes Instagram channel.
€2,700,000
€1,100,000
€2,350,000
€1,075,000
This contemporary apartment is ideally located in the heart of Morzine, 2 steps from shops, restaurants and the Super Morzine gondola, accessing the fabulous Portes du Soleil ski area. Right from the entrance hall, the tone is set; honey-coloured parquet flooring, uncluttered decor and plenty of storage space. The spacious living room is bright and inviting, ideal for family and friends returning from a day on the slopes or a mountain bike outing. It opens onto two outdoor areas, garden and terrace. The huge kitchen, with its central island, is highly functional. Each of the 3 bedrooms is spacious and benefits from its own en-suite bathroom.
MORE INFO: Century 21 Call Home
+33 (0)4 50 04 94 76 | ag3156@century21.fr www.callhome-morzine.com
€5,200,000
Located in the centre of Avoriaz at an altitude of 1800m, Chalet Alaya is one of the largest private chalets in the Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort. Accommodating 16 people in 8 bedrooms and spanning 338m2, this ski-in, ski-out property also has a sauna, private cinema room, a gym and a rooftop terrace. But it’s perhaps the living space in this home that’s most impressive. The open plan rooms, including a dining area and contemporary kitchen with views across the surrounding mountains, will surely host gatherings of families and friends for many years to come.
MORE INFO:
Immobilier Hauts Forts - Avoriaz Holidays
+33 (0)4 50 74 16 08 | transaction@avoriaz-holidays.com avoriaz-holidays.com/en/buy
www.turnerpocock.com
This vast new chalet of 309m2 on a 1108m2 plot of land is just a short drive from Morzine. Resolutely bright and contemporary, the chalet is opened up as much as possible to the splendid views that surround it. Built on 4 levels, it can accommodate many guests, yet everyone will find their privacy. Built in 2021 with the latest insulation standards, it guarantees low consumption and energy savings. A separate apartment can allow immediate rental income or use it to add 2 large bedrooms to the chalet. The master bedroom can also be used as a dormitory room / games room. This chalet has everything to welcome you now in a comfortable, contemporary style.
MORE INFO:
Agence My Home in the Alps +33 (0)9 54 76 22 30 | info@mhita.com myhomeinthealps.com
The centre of Morzine is within an easy walk of this splendid, recently-constructed chalet, which has 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms and incredible valley views. Clad in brushed larch and Luzerne stone, it has a striking curb appeal and the contemporary atmosphere continues inside, where a large, open plan living space enjoys large, floor to ceiling, triple-glazed windows. There’s also a separate TV lounge, a sheltered terrace, a double garage, ski room and a rear, triple-decked terrace equipped with a sauna and hot tub. With accommodation spanning 3 floors, this property makes a perfect permanent home, holiday chalet or investment purchase.
MORE INFO: Jean Philippe Germain - Barnes Portes du Soleil +33 (0)4 50 74 14 51 | portesdusoleil@barnes-international.com barnes-portesdusoleil.com
A charming farmhouse in St Jean d’Aulps, a short stroll from the village centre. This recently renovated property offers ample living space, character, and serene surroundings. The ground floor features 2 tastefully decorated double bedrooms, 1 with garden access. A spacious shower room, laundry facilities, storage, and cellar complete this level. Upstairs, a bright living area with exposed beams and a verandah. A modern kitchen and walk-in pantry add functionality. The top floor hosts a master bedroom with ensuite, a family bathroom and a smaller double bedroom. A low-maintenance garden offers space for outdoor activities. A double garage provides secure parking and storage.
MORE INFO:
Ailsa Bishop - Alpine Property +33 (0)6 71 14 68 08 | ailsa@alpine-property.com alpine-property.com
This cosy Les Perrieres village apartment, nestled near the slopes and lifts, is beautifully finished. It offers easy ski area access via a private lift and a serene return on the Mélèzes piste. Nearby, you'll find a ski shop, supermarket, restaurant and bar. Despite its convenience, the apartment remains tranquil, with two charming bedrooms, a shower room with a separate WC, and a bright living room with views over the slopes. Sold furnished, it comes with a ski locker, a roomy cave and a locked garage in the underground parking area.
MORE INFO:
Nina McArthur - France Property Angels +33 (0)6 07 45 15 10 | nina@francepropertyangels.com francepropertyangels.com
€1,990,000
€749,000
€3,250,000 €465,000
A large, attractive 5-bedroom detached property, Chalet Ana lies in the tranquil and charming village of Essert-Romand, just 5 minutes from Morzine by car. Built in 2003, this lovely split-level chalet offers 2 living rooms and a mezzanine, office or games room. The chalet has a large double-height living area giving a spacious and bright feel to the open plan living space, with beautiful mountain views from the large windows and balconies. Benefiting from a double garage and cellar, beautiful gardens and extensive parking, there is also the option to build another chalet on the large plot of 1600m2
MORE INFO:
Mountain Base - Knight Frank +33 (0)4 80 96 50 03 | sales@mountain-base.com mountain-base.com/chalet-ana
Refurbished entirely to provide contemporary accommodation with high-quality finishes throughout, Chalet Combe rests in the centre of Avoriaz, occupying a ski-in, ski-out location. It’s 7 bedrooms sleep up to 12 people and there’s well-organised storage throughout. Rooms are arranged over 3 floors with large windows typical of Avoriaz to maximise light and views. The chalet also includes a sauna, best enjoyed after a hard day on the slopes, as well as open plan living spaces and a beautifully designed kitchen.
MORE INFO:
Immobilier Hauts Forts - Avoriaz Holidays +33 (0)4 50 74 16 08 | transaction@avoriaz-holidays.com avoriaz-holidays.com/en/buy
€1,395,000
€3,500,000
Discover the ultimate ski-in, ski-out experience in this stunning 4-bedroom apartment on Les Gets' slopes in the Portes du Soleil. With mesmerising mountain views, this top-floor 2017 residence is ideal for winter sports and nature enthusiasts. The apartment features 4 charming, spacious bedrooms. An open-plan living and dining area is perfect for gatherings, complemented by a well-equipped modern kitchen. Stay cosy with a wood burner. Enjoy the alpine views from 3 balconies and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Additionally, secure garage, cave, and ski locker facilities are available to safeguard your gear. The perfect retreat for skiing and relaxation.
MORE INFO:
Agence Les Juliettes
+33 (0)4 50 79 87 60 | agence@lesjuliettesimmo.com lesjuliettesimmo.com
The chalet is nestled in a quiet area of Essert Romand, very close to the village restaurant and just a 5 minute drive to Morzine. It is a brilliant investment opportunity comprising 3 large apartments within one chalet that can be lived in or rented by the week, season or year. The apartments were renovated around 8 years ago, they each feature 3 bedrooms, some with extra mezzanine levels. There are a total of 9 bedrooms in the entire chalet, plus the 2 mezzanines where there are 4 single beds in total. Outside, there’s a large flat garden that can be landscaped. There is a cellar for storage and a carport.
MORE INFO: Agence My Home in the Alps
+33 (0) 9 54 76 22 30 | info@mhita.commyhomeinthealps.com
This lovely chalet in Vallée de la Manche is a hidden gem, offering tranquility near Morzine and quick access to the mountains. The detached chalet features a spacious lounge with mountain views, an open-plan kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a balcony, garden, garage and off-street parking. Situated by the river path, it's a 15-minute walk to mountain restaurants and cross-country ski tracks at Erigne, with a short ski to the Nyon cable car. A nearby bus route gets you to Morzine in minutes, or it's a 30-minute riverfront stroll. Ideal for a serene mountain escape with convenient piste access.
MORE INFO: France Property Angels - Cath Allen
+33 (0)7 67 87 79 28 | cath@francepropertyangels.com francepropertyangels.com
This is a stunning duplex apartment with the sights and sounds of charming Les Gets on your doorstep. Imagine coming home after a day on the slopes to these contemporary, bright interiors. Take an apero on the balcony with views over the rooftops of the village. There are 2 spacious bedrooms, one of which is en-suite, within this 62m2 apartment, constructed in 2016. Located on the second floor of a well-managed residence, the apartment is accessed via an elevator and is sold fully-furnished with quality interior furniture and fittings. Stay just moments from the ski slopes to truly maximise your time in the mountains.
MORE INFO: Leah Mugnier - Barnes Portes du Soleil
+33 (0)4 50 74 14 51 | portesdusoleil@barnes-international.com barnes-portesdusoleil.com
€1,489,000
€960,000
€975,000
€650,000
Discover these two distinctive detached chalets, located on the heights of Les Gets. With their high quality finishings, these chalets offer all the comfort you would expect in the mountains. The Kandahar project is composed of two private chalets, in triplex, perfectly integrated into the architectural landscape of the village of Les Gets. For the facades, the authentic mountain materials are privileged: wood and stone, laid horizontally. On the ground floor you’ll discover parking spaces and ski lockers, on the first level the bedrooms and bathrooms and on the top level, the main living area as well as a bedroom and a bathroom.
MORE INFO:
Samantha Gates - Alpine Lodges
+33 (0)4 22 32 60 96 | info@alpine-lodges.fr alpine-lodges.fr/en
€138,000
Seytroux is a lovely little village with authentic Savoyarde charm and character, just a 10 minute drive from the slopes and with its own restaurant, bar and school. Here’s an opportunity to purchase a prime plot of land, complete with full planning permission already obtained for a 2-story, 4-bedroomed chalet spanning 164m2 on a plot of 800m2. The land is located in a very sunny position in an uncrowded hamlet, with wonderful valley views.
MORE INFO:
Ailsa Bishop - Alpine Property
+33 (0)6 71 14 68 08 | ailsa@alpine-property.com alpine-property.com
Grosset Janin are one of the most prestigious chalet constructors in our region. For almost 75 years they’ve been designing and building custom-made homes in the traditional style that make our villages so beautiful. This is a family business, carefully crafted over four generations and is now run by Nicholas Perroux.
Nicholas, your company has been building chalets since 1950. How have styles and design trends evolved since then?
“Over the last 30 years, mountain chalets have moved upmarket, both in terms of performance and size. The exteriors are very often traditional, while the interiors are becoming increasingly contemporary. This has become a trademark for us, with greater involvement in interior design.”
Is there a current preference for building new chalets rather than renovating old ones?
“That's a very good question. Our expertise as an all-round builder is a real asset when it comes to total chalet renovation. Customers prefer more efficient, more customisable new-builds, but due to the scarcity of land and urban planning regulations that are increasingly unfavourable to new building zones, chalet renovation is an increasingly important part of our business.”
Grosset Janin were the constructors of ChaletHotel Blythe in Les Gets. Which elements of this project were unique to your company?
“It's undeniable that the architectural style of Avoriaz is very present on this project; it’s very much the opposite of what we usually offer. The construction of Chalet-Hotel Blythe demonstrates our ability to build things that are different from traditional post-and-beam chalets, on several floors and above all incorporating as many wooden parts as possible. This means a lower carbon impact from the construction and an interesting speed of construction, which was a real challenge for the company.”
When planning a new home in the mountains, what's the most important thing people should consider?
“There are a lot of things to take into account: firstly, be sure of your specifications, of what you really want, don't hesitate to build
up a book of inspirations, then be aware that it takes a long time to obtain planning permission and other studies in France. Once all these conditions have been met, you can let yourself be guided by our team, who will accompany you through the various phases of design, choice, delivery and even, very often, beyond.”
In your opinion, how do you strike a balance between the evolution of styles and the modernisation of local building design, and the original character and charm of our villages? Can these two things coexist?
"Yes, of course. As mentioned earlier, our post-and-beam chalets are often quite traditional, to blend in with the local landscape. Our interiors are often treated in a very contemporary way, and we even use a different type of wood for the interior and exterior, whether for the frame or for our joinery. It's the right balance between tradition and modernity.”
The build-up to the winter ski season is always our busiest time of the year, and this year we are completing one of our largest projects – ChaletHôtel Blythe in Les Gets. Over four years in the making, this property has been designed to 5-star hotel standards and we are absolutely thrilled with it. In this edition of my regular interiors update, we have chosen six of our favourite products in this property.
We are delighted to be collaborating with renowned furniture designer and TV celebrity Jay Blades on Chalet-Hôtel Blythe. We have designed items together throughout the chalet-hôtel, including bespoke stools for all the bedrooms. These are tactile, sumptuous and provide a burst of colour, texture and whimsy. We love them!
This is our new favourite product! Norr11 is a contemporary Scandinavian design company and their Hippo chair is inspired by the volume and anatomy of the hippopotamus. We love absolutely everything about this chair – the design, proportions and the upholstery options. It is also available as an exterior version that we are using on the huge top-floor roof terrace of the chalet-hôtel!
Deco d’en Haut Faux Fur Throws decodenhaut.com
Together with local interior shop Deco d’en Haut, we have sourced gorgeous faux fur throws for the hôtel to give a snuggly alpine feel in the bedrooms, and for the sofas on the roof terrace overlooking the village. These are of beautiful quality and available in a range of colours and sizes.
Poliform is one of Italy's most respected furniture brands and has been influencing contemporary interiors for over fifty years. The Bristol sofa is a fabulous modular design that is extremely stylish yet comfortable and customisable in configuration, dimensions, and materials. This is an investment piece in a chalet – comfy, luxurious and hard-wearing.
Top Floor Icicle Rug topfloorrugs.com
Top Floor is one of our favourite suppliers. Their designs, quality and the customisation of their rugs makes them our go-to supplier for projects. The Icicle rugs in the main salon of Chalet-Hôtel Blythe are a perfect example. We worked with Esti and her team at Top Floor to create several free-form versions of a previously rectangular design, in the dimensions and colours that matched our vision and requirements for the project.
Taninges Télécabines Two-seater Chairlift Seat facebook.com/taninges.telecabines
A shep&kyles design project is rarely complete without a swing! For Chalet-Hôtel Blythe we have gone one step further and customised an old seat from a chairlift to hang outside the front door of the hôtel. Taninges Télécabines have completely renovated a 1970’s 2-seater chair with oak slats and glorious zingy blue powder-coated metalwork. Accessorised with sheepskin throws, this is a luxury two-person swing!
I was approached by our clients five years ago. They were looking for a new property, they had visited some shep&kyles design projects and they wanted to collaborate with us on their new venture. The only problem was that they had not found the land! Despite this, their brief was very clear. They wanted to build a luxurious, intimate, 5-star boutique chalet-hôtel in the centre of Les Gets. This was not as easy as it sounds as prime locations are very sought after! We spent six months working with local estate agents and finally secured the perfect plot through the constructeur Grosset Janin.
Shep&kyles design have been the client’s representative since the beginning of the process and we subsequently took on the interior architecture and interior design responsibilities for the whole chalet-hôtel. After finding the land, we have worked with the constructeur Grosset Janin from the outset, we recommended Marullaz Architectures as architects and were joined by independent project managers Haag&Baquet. With the core team in place, we then turned our focus to working sideby-side with all the individual contractors, artisans and suppliers to ensure the perfect execution of the concept and design down to the finest details.
In terms of the interiors brief from our clients, we were extremely lucky! They loved the work we had done on previous projects and said that they wanted a similar feel for their property. After discussing the chalethôtel in detail and submitting designs, mood-boards and renders for principal rooms, they gave us huge freedom to create a unified design across all areas of the hôtel. The brief was high end alpine-chic with a contemporary twist; they love spotting the shep&kyles design signature details throughout the building!
Having a close working relationship with the architect, constructeur, project manager and the various artisans is simply essential for a project of this size, complexity, and detail. We had previously worked with Grosset Janin on several properties and have huge respect for both the président Nicolas Perroux and his team. In return, they trust us and they let us appoint many of our trusted trades to the project. This was highly advantageous as we have long-standing relationships with these companies – they understand us, and the (often highly complicated!) requirements we have for the finishes. We are able to reference previous projects completed together and to define the thousands of design and construction details required. This was critical in the success of this chalethôtel design and build. In one area we are indebted to the clients themselves. They approached design and engineering company Haag&Baquet to act as independent project managers for the design and build, and we have forged a close relationship with them over this process. Chris Leder, their project manager, is extremely capable, we would not have had the amazing end-result without him and his company’s expertise.
We are very proud of the chalet-hôtel in its entirety. However, we particularly love the mezzanine bar and rooftop terrace. The bar is a cosy space on the very top floor of the property, with a pitched roof, bespoke curved bar and with gorgeous seating from Timothy Oulton teamed with custom-made rugs from Top Floor in Chelsea Harbour. This is an >>
intimate, relaxing space that is perfect for a 5-star ski lodge. It opens out onto a simply magnificent 60m2 roof terrace overlooking the beautiful village centre and the pistes –perfect for chilling out on a sunny afternoon, or for watching the New Year’s fireworks!
One area did cause me a huge headache however; the hôtel regulations! Designing a property to conform to hôtel building regulations is very different from a private home or a catered chalet. The various rules (especially those pertaining to fire and disabled requirements) require significant design creativity to ensure that the design vision and guest experience does not suffer.
Chalet-hôtel Blythe was conceived as a luxury home from home. In the best tradition of boutique properties, it is not stuffy, institutional, or impersonal, but is sumptuously appointed and designed to make you feel welcome and at ease. There is no formal reception area, no generic dining room and the bedrooms are all individually designed, furnished, and accessorised. There is the cosy mezzanine bar and unrivalled leisure facilities – gym, massage room, pool, hamman, sauna, jacuzzi and ice room. All these spaces are carefully conceived, with bespoke furnishings and details. The aim is that people will relax and feel that they are staying in a home with friends, they can unwind and feel at ease –and yes, extremely pampered!
Shep&kyles design have been fortunate to work with an incredible team on this project. On the interior architecture side, we were thrilled to be reunited with Energelec as our electricians, Muffat as our plumbers, Thierry Jolivet for glasswork, windows, and mirrors (who always goes the extra mile for us and tolerates our design aesthetic even when it makes his life so much harder!) and Manu from Chalet Parquets & Stores who supplies the most gorgeous wooden floors. On the interiors side we work with incredible designers and manufacturers, often designing bespoke products for our projects. For chalet-hôtel Blythe we collaborated with Jay & Co (owned by celebrity furniture designer Jay Blades MBE) on a collection of furniture exclusively for this project which injects colour, texture, and fun into the bedrooms. We also worked with Esti Barnes of Top Floor rugs on bespoke designs and shapes project-wide. These rugs are simply stunning. All the beds come from Raphaël at Literie des Savoie –the most comfortable beds I have tested; I am saving up for one myself! Finally, we collaborated with award winning local photographers Gio Fleming and Stéphane Gautier on framed photography across the property, and are thrilled by their breathtaking art and the contribution it makes to the interiors.
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By gareth jefferies Marketing Director at alpine-property.com
by gareth jefferies marketing director at alpine-property.com
Morzine Source Magazine ask me to write my regular property market update, I re-read my previous one to see how things might have changed. Back
in the spring of this year we definitely felt there might be a “wobble” in the property market. Winter 2022/23 started off with the energy crisis thanks to the war in Ukraine. Then we had the further issue of a lack of mortgages, thanks to quickly rising interest rates (remember the Kwasi's kamikaze budget?) This was then followed up with very little snow across the French Alps at Christmas. All together it felt a bit like a perfect (all-be-it snowless) storm.
In January the snow came and we had a long period of cold stable weather. The energy issues stabilised and mortgages reappeared slowly. There was indeed a stutter, but it did not last long. Summer started and it was mostly a scorcher. Thanks to the efforts of our local tourism officials we had lots of big name events in our region. So often the fortunes of the property market here are tied to the weather, much like the fortunes of the holiday industry in general. Sometimes I think this is what it must feel like to be a farmer.
The summer was busy once again in the property market, but still with two underlying issues; the difficulty of obtaining a mortgage
and a general lack of available properties. Looking over our data for the last few months, the number of people looking for property in our region was slightly higher in the “COVID years” of 20/21 and today's numbers are up on last year (2022), and up on the pre-COVID year of 2019. But the number of properties available is down on all those years, so there is pressure which is keeping property prices high. The number of sales is down compared to the last few years due to lack of “stock”. If you are selling, don’t be tempted to over-price your property, because if you do it will stick on the market. And if you are looking, secure finance first if you need it, and don’t be surprised if you have to offer at asking price.
Political pressures are building in our ski areas and it’s due to two issues. The first is environmental. Continual growth just feels wrong when we are trying to preserve our planet for future generations, the availability and affordability of housing for residents. People see the new developments going up in the centre of our towns and rail against the local council to do something about it. Unfortunately the local councils are mostly overruled by national planning guidelines. Change is slow, but it is happening.
You may have heard talk of higher taxation on second homes. This is part of the slow change mentioned above. Despite what some
UK papers will tell you, this is not something aimed at the British. It’s a blanket change that affects everyone. Second homes and vacant premises will be subject to higher taxes, the money raised will help build affordable housing. All in all, I consider this to be a good thing.
“If you are selling, don’t be tempted to over-price your property, because if you do it will stick on the market.”
Other changes that are slowly having an effect are our energy performance certificates (DPE’s). They have been around for more than 15 years and their importance is starting to bite now. Eventually the French government is aiming to have all dwellings as a D or better. From this year, properties with an F or G certificate are considered to be a “fail” and further costly surveys are required before a property can be advertised for sale. This is to educate a buyer as to the work required to get the energy efficiency of the property up to a better standard. Properties in this failed category are known as “passoires thermiques“ or thermal sieves. If they are rated G then they can’t be let out long term from 2025 and this regulation will affect E and F properties eventually.
Our seasons also seem to be extending. Now this is a slow change too, but bit by bit the local amenities are staying open a touch longer. Not that many years ago the summer season was very much just July and August, now it feels more like June through September. Add to this that fact that more people are enjoying our mountains “out of season” and spring and autumn have always been something the people that live here have always appreciated. We’ve just had family to stay during the November holidays and there has been plenty to do during some pretty inclement weather. Mountain walks between the rain, the ice rink and swimming pool have been open and the new “luge d'été” in Les Gets too. Beyond that a showstopper of a trip up the Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix was a real hit and should be on everyone's bucket list.
The Déco d’en Haut shop and showroom on the outskirts of Morzine is a heaven for those of us looking for unique and stylish furniture, soft furnishings and decorations. Arranged into carefully considered spaces to showcase new designers, chic French and international brands and different styles, the experienced team are on hand to offer advice on lighting, fabrics and window coverings for your home, whatever its size or style. You’ll find sample books to help you select your colour schemes, quirky furniture designed to fit those little niches and a range of quality bedding too. The shop is open all year round between 9.30am and 12noon and 2.30pm to 6pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, it’s closed on Wednesday and Sunday. You’ll find it at 1992 route de la Plagne in Morzine, head to decodenhaut.com for more details.
Launched by renowned local landscapes photographer Jacquie Cutler in response to requests for prints of her work, Finesse Art is a web gallery packed full of beautiful images. Featuring all of your favourite landscapes, peaks and seasons, Jacquie’s work makes the perfect holiday souvenir. Choose to print your favourite view on a range of different materials, from the highest grade Hahnemühle art paper to HD mental and several other options in between in many different sizes. Your order will be delivered directly to your home, enhancing your holiday memories forever more! Discover more at finesse-art.com
Famed for its cosy, heritage vibes, wood panelling often adorns the internal walls of many local properties. Varying from sauna orange to a more contemporary wire brushed oak, wood has been used decoratively for hundreds of years. But what if we replaced our wall coverings with leather? Manu Strijker of Chalet Parquets & Stores based in La Côte d’Arbroz has partnered with famous Dutch leather brand Alphenberg to offer a range of top quality leather wall coverings in a large selection of colours which can also be used as flooring, on staircases, to clad fireplace surrounds and even as kitchen cupboard frontages. Alphenberg leather can even be used to cover internal doors, creating a warm, textured and unique effect throughout a home. “Alphenberg leather has a number of special qualities and has been very popular amongst my clients,” Manu tells us. “Leather insulates, has a sound-proofing effect, is fire-retardant and requires very little special maintenance,” he continues. Discover the range and contact Manu at parquets-stores.com
Over the last 13 years the team at MountainXtra have gained an excellent reputation for providing property owners with an outstanding range of services, including chalet maintenance, key-holding, landscaping and cleaning services in addition to marketing properties to holiday makers. With demand for holidays in well-managed, self-catered properties increasing each winter, the team at MountainXtra are keen to speak with new property owners and those considering investing in a rental property in Morzine or Les Gets. They’re available to help you select the right property, plan interiors and facilities if required and market it to their long list of previous guests, giving you peace of mind and access to excellent local knowledge too. Contact dom@mountainxtra.com to discover more.
As a painter with over 20 years of experience, it’s Simon Briggs’ job to watch new decoration trends emerge. In addition to the more traditional projects of a painter and decorator, Simon also specialises in vinyl covering, a method he’s seen become wildly popular in recent times. “Vinyl covering involves adding a self-adhesive cover to smooth interior surfaces such as walls and doors. The method instantly refreshes the look and feel of a room,” Simon explains. As it happens, Simon has a range of over 500 different high-end coverings and they’re particularly good for renovation projects. “You might love the style of your farmhouse kitchen, but hate the colour. Rather than renovate the entire room, adding a vinyl coating to your cabinets can instantly transform the look and feel of a space at a fraction of the cost,” Simon tells us. Vinyl coverings are also available in a range of different finishes, from metallic to textile to realistic-looking wood grain. As you might expect, Simon can provide samples to help you make decisions on colour and finish before arriving to quickly install your coverings without the need to empty a room for painting, and without the lasting smell of paint! Simon’s vinyl coverings have a 10-year warranty too. “My customers tell me these coverings are much easier to wash and maintain, I like them because they have a reduced ecological impact when compared to paint.” Discover more and connect with Simon via his website - mr-peinture.fr
Eco chalet construction specialists ECSUS Design are responsible for a number of the new property projects you’ll spot around our valley at the moment. The team at ECSUS take care of both the design and construction of bespoke, eco-friendly homes that are more cost-effective to build and also to heat. Using the latest Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPS) systems, projects come together quickly and achieve AA energy ratings, but perhaps the biggest benefit of all is to your health. The SIP structure is entirely airtight, which means internal air quality can be better controlled using mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems. Contaminants such as toxins and allergens can be filtered from the incoming air flow, leaving your home filled with fresh, high quality air. That’s why you decided to live in the mountains, after all! ECSUS homes are also more temperature-stable; minimal air leakage retains hot air inside your home, lowering your overall energy bills, while the airtight construction also absorbs external noise, leaving your home perfectly peaceful. For more information on ECSUS Design and their current local projects, head to ecsusdesign.com
We can always rely on the many experienced interior designers in our valley to identify the new trends and emerging influences that we’ll all want to see in our homes in the years to come. Here’s a sneak peek into some recent local projects to inspire you.
The Detail: For the main kitchen we decided to combine crown cut oak veneer with the timeless elegance of FENIX Grigio Antrim. We added curved edges and bookmatched the oak vertically. The oak was lightly brushed to add depth and then finished with a limed oak stain. For the worktop we chose Aura 22 from the Dekton Natural Selection which honours the Calacatta and Carrara marbles. It paired perfectly with the FENIX, limed oak and the stunning silver GAGGENAU ovens.
At the far end of the kitchen is a stair well that curves its way up to the next floor. We decided to hide this, but still make use of the space underneath. This resulted in an ‘oak wall’ with a mixture of fixed panels, drawers and cupboards clearly showing the bookmatched grain running top to bottom.
In addition to the kitchen, we designed a small bar with pocket doors matching the kitchen. When closed, it seamlessly blends in but when open it is lit up by the integrated LEDs, which bring the glass, mirrors and the Silestone Stellar Night polished worktop to life. For the main bar cabinetry we used Ikat 3 - a reconstituted wood created by the Italian brand ALPI.
The Detail: Our Geneva-based clients bought this chalet and they wanted it to feel like a real home-from-home as opposed to a rental chalet or holiday property. It was very standard in its original state, the kind of property you’ll see in many ski resorts across the alps. It lacked personality and originality.
However, rather than ripping out the orange oak entirely, our clients trusted us to paint the original wood; our local decorators thought were had lost the plot! Seeing the orange oak as a blank canvas, we really introduced a lot of colour into this project, I guess that’s actually quite unusual for mountain chalets. This was transformational to the space, the oak no longer felt suffocating, while adding tongue and groove between the ceiling beams really lifted the large living space, making it feel higher and brighter.
We also painted the existing window frames and doors in a dark team throughout. This created continuity and it’s definitely an unusual feature for the mountains!
Discover More: turnerpocock.co.uk
The Brief: Renovate a tired chalet to create a high-end family home that maximises access to the surroundings.
The Detail: This lovely chalet, at the foot of the Ardoisiere cliffs, was originally built 12 years ago, but to a very basic standard. We utilised an existing covered terrace area to extend the chalet living space and also the master bedroom suite.
One of the main design features we incorporated completely changed the kitchen concept. We took out almost a whole internal wall, adding in expansive windows so the clients could maximise the glorious views up to Prodain and Avoriaz. This came with its difficulties and challenges as you might expect, fitting huge windows and ensuring the whole chalet support system worked.
This project was all about adding light and optimising views, changing the whole exterior look of the chalet but also allowing for privacy. We also considered the lighting aspect and how this chalet would be seen from the outside. Working with Rose Electrics made this process easy, together we came up with an exterior lighting plan that set this chalet apart from others in that area.
Discover More: rsinteriordesigns.com
The Detail: The owners of this chalet are a lovely family with lots of children so my objective was to create a fun space with fun bathroom tile designs for example and designing bespoke bunk beds that optimise the height and space in a bedroom. The end result is a light-filled chalet with a contemporary design. The TV room is also a lovely, cosy space for the teenagers to escape to!
The owner really wanted a kitchen island, but it was difficult to fit one into the space. Instead, we created a mobile unit, which has multiple uses depending on there it’s positioned. It can be an extra kitchen prep area, a serving space or even a cocktail bar! The owners also use it as a breakfast bar and they wheel it outside for BBQs in the summer. Berchen created this for us and it was a resounding success!
Discover More: clairecollinsinteriors.com
I’ve lived in Morzine for 14 years and during that time I’ve seen the village change in many wonderful ways. That said, I also read your comments and concerns about the overdevelopment of Morzine, and also Les Gets, to an extent. Can Morzine continue to be the authentic, Savoyarde village that we all know and love while new apartment residences pop up around us? Is there a way to blend the old with the new?
While Morzine grapples with the bigger issue of harmonious expansion and development, Eric Muffat established the Association Front de Neige, a local not for profit organisation established to protect the snow front in Morzine. The snow front is a specific feature in most ski resorts across the Alps. It’s the area at the bottom of the ski lifts, adjacent to the village and is usually reserved for sledging, games and snowball fights. Its significance in terms of a tourist destination cannot be overstated. Here Eric explains what his organisation is doing to protect our snow front.
What is the objective of the Association Front de Neige?
Our objective is to protect and enhance the front de neige in Morzine. The goal is to monitor all new projects concerning the snow front, in collaboration with elected officials and the local ski lift operator, both in winter and summer. We also need to take climate change into account and start offering alternative activities on the front de neige, due to the lack of snow in the village.
Why is a snow front important for the future of Morzine? And for tourists…
A lively snow front is very important for families, because it represents the showcase of Morzine. It’s usually the first thing holiday
makers see when they arrive in our village. They are looking for activities in winter and summer and they want to enjoy greenery and mountain landscapes. This is the reason why we must stop adding new concrete structures to the snow front, in order to preserve the white and green spaces of our village.
What activities would you like to see on a snow front in the future?
We must think about making a synthetic ski slope, allowing visitors to learn to ski, whatever the season. We must create a space dedicated entirely to sledging; a space which is snowcovered all winter and well-lit in order to energise the lower part of Pleney. Creating an end-of-day entertainment space for families in winter and summer is another objective. We’d also like to create new ski lift capacity on the beginner slopes of the front de neige, at the Mas Verjus sector, to relieve congestion on the Pleney cable car, especially during school holiday periods. We need to relaunch activities on the snow front in summer, such as Dévalkart or Trotin'herbes. We need to build a new allseason toboggan run, like in Les Gets. We can create a play area for children made entirely of wood, just as you’ll see on the Dérèches, or at Lac de Montriond. We could place picnic tables below the paraglider landing area to make the place friendly and allow people to eat facing the Pointe de Nyon. In short, there are plenty
of possibilities to improve this space, which currently is not at all up to the standard of a renowned resort like Morzine.
The new property development on the site of the former Aubergade hotel removes a significant volume of snow front space from public use. Why is that a problem?
This is a problem because the plans involve concreting the snow front with a major real estate development, instead of using the space for underground parking, which is sorely lacking on Avenue de Joux Plane. Instead of enhancing the snow front, this development will in fact split it in two. The developers responsible for this project enrich themselves by disfiguring Morzine. We have been able to preserve the seafront of our country with the coastal law, but unfortunately we have not been able to preserve enough of the snow fronts with the mountain law. Morzine’s town hall has understood the issue and the remaining snow front is now blocked in a natural zone.
Is there a simple way for you to summarise the current situation on the snow front? How did we get to this problem?
Fortunately our association shines a light on the current problems we see on the snow front: intensive concreting and no current showcase for Morzine due to a lack of desire.
*** For clarity, and in the interests of balanced reporting, we did contact the company developing the site of the Aubergade hotel and invited them to make a contribution to this article. They graciously declined.
The snow front does not generate any direct revenues for a ski lift operator, but it is very important in terms of a window display. From a commercial point of view, you need a beautiful showcase to attract holiday makers and bring life to an entire village. Morzine has obtained the “Famille plus” accreditation, so everything should be done to offer families a wide range of activities and to build their loyalty. Morzine must not become a ‘dormitory station’ and the Avenue de Joux Plane must not become the avenue of developers and an access road to Avoriaz. Climate change is fast approaching and our association is already working on this development.
What activations has the Association Front de Neige undertaken against this development?
Through our environmental lawyer, we are trying to block the Aubergade construction site and we’re assisting the town hall to oppose the real estate project, even though the demolition of the old building has already taken place. As long as the building is not built, there is still hope for us.
A big demonstration took place in Morzine on 7th October 2023, we brought together 300 demonstrators. This is a strong sign to defend our ideas. We have also submitted to our elected officials, on several occasions, projects to enhance the snow front in the future, as explained above. We are also planning an event every summer on the snow front; live music concerts, games for families, refreshments, a bar, to celebrate and understand the importance of this area of our village. We’ve also communicated in the press to make our association known and raise public awareness of our movement.
Do you think there will be a resolution? Or is it too late?
We will try everything to preserve our village, or at least what remains of it, and we will communicate our actions through our Facebook page; over 1000 subscribers follow us there. We still feel popular support from Morzinois and also from the tourists who love our village. The problem is that the developers are very well organised with specialised lawyers to defend them. It's not an easy fight, but we will resist until the end of the fight.
What else can we do to protect Morzine's heritage?
We must create a Morzine Citizens Collective, which would give more weight to protecting our heritage and the life of a mountain village. It is not the role of our association, which is above all to defend the snow front.
How can people follow your campaign?
They can follow us on Facebook and they can also join the association with a contribution of €15 for individuals and €100 for socio-professionals. They will access the association's WhatsApp group, where we share our ideas.
LAUNCHED IN 2019 TO TACKLE SOME OF THE VERY OBVIOUS SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES FACING MORZINE AND THE SURROUNDING VALLEY, MONTAGNE VERTE IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION WITH SIGNIFICANT PLANS TO LESSEN THE CARBON IMPACT OF YOUR WINTER HOLIDAY. HERE’S AN OVERVIEW OF THE LAST 12 MONTHS AT MONTAGNE VERTE AND A HINT OF SOME EXCITING THINGS TO COME…
DIRECTION ZERMATT
In June, Montagne Verte initiated a trip to Zermatt with a collection of mayors from within the Haut Chablais region. The delegation included Fabien Trombert, the mayor of Morzine-Avoriaz in addition to several other local officials. The objective was to discover alternative ways to manage town planning in a mountain resort. Zermatt is both car and bus free and has an outstanding bio waste processing plant. The town’s mayor spent time demonstrating some excellent initiatives to the group. On the way back to Morzine, the team stopped off in Martigny to view the impressive cycleway network established by the town and overall the trip was considered to be overwhelmingly useful. “The opportunity to step out of our own villages, to see other ways of doing things, was very inspiring,” Montagne Verte President Al Judge explains.
For the last 12 months Montagne Verte has been lead on an interim basis by co-founder Cecile Petuaud Burton. The recruitment of a new General Manager has been successful and Sara Burdon, formerly of the Morzine-Avoriaz Office de Tourisme, will take the helm in March 2024.
“We’re very excited about what Sara and our Director of Sustainability Benoît Prunel will be able to achieve together in the years to come” says Al.
Biocyclette® is a food waste biodéchets collection initiative piloted by Montagne Verte during Summer 23; so successful was the scheme that it will be rolled out across our valley in 2024. In fact, on 1st January 2024, a new national law states that all commercial hotels and restaurants must properly dispose of their food waste, but in reality, most won’t be in a position to meet this requirement. The Montagne Verte local collection scheme involves a cyclist on an electric bike, accompanied by an electric trailer. Combined, they’re able to transport up to 250kg of waste food from restaurants and hotels. “We’ve got lots of local businesses signing up to the initiative, and we’re doing a big push to create awareness,” Al explains. “At the moment, Biocyclette® is just for businesses as we don’t have the capacity to collect from individual homes. Maybe that will come in the future!” was considered to be overwhelmingly useful. “The opportunity to step out of our own villages, to see other ways of doing things, was very inspiring,” Montagne Verte President Al Judge explains.
For those unfamiliar with the Alpine Express project, here’s how the scheme works in a nutshell. Travellers who complete the majority of their journey to the mountain resorts of Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz receive genuine, useful discounts in a large range of local businesses, from accommodation to restaurants, from ski lessons to ski passes. The idea is what whilst electing to travel by train may be more expensive than flying, you can offset these extra costs with the long list of discounts on other areas of your holiday. This list of benefits and discounts will be expanded in 2024 as the number of people who choose to travel by train increases. Additionally, Montagne Verte have received a grant to fund a guide that explains exactly how you can navigate the French rail network to reach your resort of choice. “We’ve also set ourselves an ambitious target in relation to the Alpine Express,” Al explains. “By 2030, we want the train to be the preferred way for British tourists to get to the Alps.” Montagne Verte have chosen 2030 because this is the year by which we need to have halved our carbon emissions inline with the Paris agreement. “We accept that this isn’t something we can achieve ourselves, we need to build an international coalition to fulfil this objective.” The organisation Seasonal Business In Travel (SBIT) have joined the coalition and talks are also underway with the large French ski lift operating company Compagnie des Alpes. “When carbon taxation for flights comes in, none of us want to be in a position where we can’t afford to go on holiday,” says Al. “We need to have an alternative in place for travelling to the Alps before that moment and this is the business case for an organisation like Compagnie des Alpes.”
AMAP is the Montagne Verte local produce subscription initiative and it launched this summer with some excellent feedback. The weekly boxes are packed full of delicious, local produce and 20 individual families signed up to the service. “20 initial subscriptions is actually pretty impressive,” says Al. “By comparison, Thonon down the road has 35,000 inhabitants, their AMAP initiative has just 30 subscribers.” The AMAP project will continue to expand and enhance in 2024.
In addition to pushing forward with the Alpine Express expansion and the biodéchets initiative during 2024, perhaps one of the most exciting developments in 2024 will be push towards creating a cycle path network around our valley. “Everyone in our valley would love to be able to get on a bike in St Jean d’Aulps and ride easily and safety into Morzine,” Al believes. Creating an efficient network of cycle paths would have three main benefits; there’d be a reduction in carbon emissions, cycling is excellent for your health and the pathways themselves create a new tourist activity that’s not dependent on snow, or using the lift network. “The Communauté de Communes du Haut-Chablais (CCHC) are moving forward with their planning and a member from Montagne Verte will sit on the consultance committee that oversees the establishment of these cycle paths.”
Al explains that Montagne Verte, as a not-for-profit association, is in good financial heath and will be looking to increase revenue strams moving forward. Asking tourists to participate financially in the long term environmental health of the mountain villages they love will become more important. Asking property owners - those who own holiday homes and properties that host holiday makers will be another focus for contributions. And finally, the largest organisations operating in our valley - those who really must take action against climate change - they’ll be asked to make a contribution towards the work of Montagne Verte too.
It’s really inspiring to see the variety of projects being pushed forward by Montagne Verte. With last winter’s ‘snow situation’ still fresh in the memories of many, it’s never been more important to limit the impact of mountain tourism on our local environment. If you’d like to support the work of Montagne Verte, either financially or by subscribing to one of the projects outlined above, head to montagneverte.org/en/donate.
We build using Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) and cleverly integrated renewable energy systems
By Steffi Branfield
Drinking a local beer at the end of a day in the mountains was always something my husband Dave and I looked forward to. Whether we’d been out on our bikes, hiking in the hills or skiing with friends, we’d always end up in a bar, recounting the events of the day. From our home in the UK, we’d holidayed in Morzine a few times before we moved here as a family to start a chalet business in 2011. We’d already noticed the lack of a local beer on tap and this sparked an idea that we sat on for a year.
In 2012, in the tiny kitchen in our rented house, Dave started brewing our beer. It didn’t start well and a lot of it went down the drain. We’d just started our chalet business and we’d just had another child, so it wasn’t an ideal time to launch a brewing project! It took a lot of trial and error, combined with some encouragement from our local friends, but the seed had been planted. For a few years Dave brewed in cellars and caves, anywhere he could find a small amount of space for the kit. But in 2016, after some really great feedback from friends and family, we invested in some larger equipment and things became more serious. We moved into our first premises in Morzine, it gave us the capacity to brew ten times more beer and IBEX Beer was born.
“Our objective from day one was to create a beer that you could enjoy after a day in the mountains;”
Our objective from day one was to create a beer that you could enjoy after a day in the mountains; one that wouldn’t destroy you like some of the Belgian beers we’d drunk in the Alps. Dave began by creating easy-drinking, lower alcohol beers that could be enjoyed in a more relaxed way. This really has remained at the core of IBEX. As you’d expect, there are some British influences in the beer, but as we’ve grown we’ve been able to incorporate new styles in our range and there’s now a selection of brews to suit all tastes. We like to think that our beers reflect the international feel of Morzine and the wider Portes du Soleil as a destination. Our customers give us great feedback on our hoppy beers, such as our IPAs and NEIPAs, all of which are very drinkable.
We put that down to our water supply - mountain water tastes so pure and you can absolutely taste that in the beer.
We have had a huge drive to improve the quality of our beers across the board, in addition to playing with new styles that could sit alongside our core range. From the beginning the dream was to have our own brewery and taproom alongside an events space that could be combined with great local food, somewhere for families to enjoy. Around 2019, with all of these ideas and with orders constantly increasing, the penny dropped once again… we needed to increase our capacity, significantly, once again.
“From the beginning the dream was to have our own brewery and taproom alongside an events space that could be combined with great local food”
Growing breweries need two things - a lot of money and a lot of space. We started to look around for a larger building to brew in. Industrial buildings are very few and far between in alpine towns and there was nothing suitable at all. So we began discussions to build a custom-made brewery on one of the final plots of land available for industrial development in the Morzine area. This gave us the opportunity to plan space for more tanks, offices for our growing team and create an environment where we could welcome people directly into the brewery to drink our beer. The pandemic arrived and the plan went on pause. Construction of our new brewery finally began in 2022 and we opened the brand new IBEX brewery and The Wood Yard tap room in the summer of 2023.
Dave learned a lot about brewing beer during his initial homebrew experiments and then moving to our first brewery all those years ago. This gave us the confidence to plan our new >>
A UNIQUE HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE AT THE MAZOTS DES FÉES ESTAT E ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF MORZINE
UNE EXPÉRIENCE DE VACANCES UNIQUE AU DOMAINE DES MAZOTS DES FÉES AUX PORTES DE MORZINE
Choose from one of seven luxurious en-suite double bedrooms inside our beautiful B&B chalet or select one of our characterful, authentic mazots for a private stay for up to 5 people in our garden.
Choisissez parmi l'une des sept luxueuses chambres doubles avec salle de bains privative dans notre magnifique chalet B&B ou sélectionnez l'un de nos mazots de caractère et authentiques pour un séjour privé pouvant accueillir jusqu'à 5 personnes dans notre jardin.
space to account for future ideas and expanding capacity. A production brewery is all about work flow and being able to do multiple jobs during the day. We’ll be brewing while transferring beer, packaging and organising logistics. Much of the equipment we’ve installed, the floor drainage for example, was custom designed and we worked with some excellent local companies to achieve this. We invested in top end equipment; the new brewhouse (that’s the kit that makes the beer before fermentation) gives us the chance to tweak our recipes and improve our beers in so many different ways. We’ve also increased our fermentation capacity by 100% so we can double our output. We’re on track to brew 300,000 litres of beer this year, and we can double this again in the future by replacing our fermenters with even bigger tanks - that’s why we have such a high roof in the brewery!
We’ve designed the brewery to be as efficient as possible, both from an energy perspective and for our production processes for many years to come; it was a labour of love but we’ve finally got it just right. In the future we plan to switch out our CO2 use for an onsite machine that produces nitrogen from compressed air. We’d also like to set up renewable energies to power the site and replace our local delivery vehicles with EV alternatives.
“We’re on track to brew 300,000 litres of beer this year, and we can double this again in the future”
It’s every brewers dream to have their beer drunk on the site that it’s made - it doesn’t get any fresher than that! Launching The Wood Yard - our tap room and restaurant, was absolutely the realisation of this dream. We called it The Wood Yard because the site was previously used as a saw mill and the brewery actually sits on the area once used for sorting the incoming logs.
The space that we’ve created is unique in our region and alongside the 10 lines of beers (our own and often a couple of lines of neighbouring breweries’ beers), we also have some great wines, cocktails and we’re developing a solid reputation for good food by our excellent kitchen team. From the very beginning we’ve offered a well-priced daily lunch menu for both locals and tourists alike. The menu changes each week and there’s an evening menu designed to compliment our beers. We’re also able to stay open all year round, because we never stop brewing! It’s nice to be able to offer an experience for groups of friends, families and dog walkers who stumble upon us, just off the river path along the Dereches.
It’s been a real pleasure to welcome so many people to The Wood Yard since we opened last summer. One of our proudest achievements has been taking our team from four people to 12 full time staff as we opened the doors.
90% of our clients are French-speaking, but our bilingual team are a happy mix of English, Belgian, French and Australian so you’ll hear a beautiful mix of languages when you come to drink or dine with us.
This winter you can expect some fun, interesting, new evening events at The Wood Yard. We’ll launch a new menu inspired by world street food that’s designed to be drunk with our beers. We want to create interesting things for people to do after a day in the mountains. We’ll be running beer tastings and brewery tours as well as hosting regular live music events and guest speakers too. There’ll also be a couple of special dining evenings this winter but the emphasis will always be on creating a welcoming space with delicious food - and great beer of course!
“It’s every brewers dream to have their beer drunk on the site that it’s made - it doesn’t get any fresher than that! ”
Opening a brewery in the Alps has been an incredible and surreal experience and we’re very grateful for all of the wonderful feedback and support we’ve received. Our team have been fantastic too, from the the original team, of myself, Dave, Mark, Ed and Josh to now the all the ‘new’ guys, they have really got behind us to support the business and now we all feel like a family. For now we’re looking forward to retaining our position as a respected craft brewery while also developing some cracking oneoff beers for everyone to enjoy and for The Wood Yard’s reputation as a great venue to continue to grow.
As anyone who runs a business will know, it’s allconsuming. Our 10 and 13 year old boys even get involved too! Of course we ski, snowboard and bike far less than we used to but living as a family in one of the best mountain destinations in the world means you can’t really complain. We’re hoping for a bit more of a work - life balance in the years to come. Of course the final thank you has to go to Dave - he brews the beer, after all! He’s never faltered in his belief that we were doing the right thing and he’s worked incredibly hard to make it all happen.
opening hours THIS WINTER:
Open daily from 11h - 23h
Lunch between 12h - 14h
Evening menu from 18h - 21h
The kitchen will remain open for bar snacks from 14h until close.
(0) 7 45 22 15 93
Fun and educative wine tasting evenings by a certi ed Wine and Education Trust lecturer and professional winemaker
The Piste X Code aims to make us all more considerate on the mountain, avoiding accidents and keeping each other safe. This is a community initiative for Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz supported by local businesses.
Control your speed, avoid other mountain users.
The downhill skier or snowboarder always has the right of way. It’s your responsibility to avoid them. Leave space while passing.
Always at the side of the piste, never in the middle! And never beneath the brow of a hill.
Look up and down the slope before you set off or re-join the piste.
Teach children about piste safety and the importance of the Piste X Code.
If a piste is closed, it’s closed for your safety. Watch for signs advising you to slow down.
You are duty bound to assist. Cross your skis upright in the snow above the incident and call 112.
Be sensible with your alcohol consumption, don’t listen to music on the pistes and never use ski apps that challenge your speed.
Dear Skiers and Snowboarders,
We’re Amie and Louise and in February 2022 we launched the PISTE X CODE, a bilingual campaign to remind everyone of their safety responsibilities on the slopes. We’d both been deeply shocked by the tragic death of a little girl skiing in a neighbouring ski resort in January 2022. As parents ourselves, we’d both noticed a significant increase in the number of out-of-control skiers and snowboarders on our local slopes. The mountains are incredibly beautiful and they’re amazingly good fun for families; we all deserve to be able to enjoy them in a safe way.
Motivated by the support of our local community, we gave ourselves a deadline of just two weeks to produce the entire campaign. With the wonderful help of local videographer George Treble and a raft of ski schools, we filmed a safety video on the pistes of the Super Morzine. BBC Ski Sunday presenter Ed Leigh introduced it for us, while we also cobbled together a website and social media channels to support the campaign. We launched everything on the eve of the February school holidays and we were overwhelmed by the feedback we received.
The winter sports industry needs this campaign but we’re not here to scare you with accident statistics, horror stories and tales of near-misses. That will never be our focus. Instead, we’re implementing positive change around the subject of piste safety, reminding those who learned to ski many years ago about their responsibilities on the slopes and those who are new to the mountains about the etiquette that makes them a safe place to have fun.
Since we launched, our PISTE X CODE campaign has featured in various international ski magazines, in national newspapers, on blogs and websites across the globe. We enlisted the support of POC Sports; it’s their mission to protect the lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for athletes and anyone inspired to be one, so this was an ideal first partnership for our campaign. We were also invited to meet with the various different French government organisations charged with monitoring, managing and improving piste safety across the country and we were pleased to contribute towards their own #PreventionHiver campaign last winter.
This winter we’ve a long list of new projects and initiatives to introduce to you. Firstly, say hello to the Monty pin badge. With the support of several local ski schools, we’ve created Monty in recognition of the piste safety knowledge passed down from instructors to children. Thirteen local ski schools will award Monty to their junior skiers and snowboarders this winter, we hope it inspires them to take piste safety seriously and develop their knowledge as they become more confident on the slopes.
Of course piste safety isn’t just a problem on our local slopes in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz, so we were delighted when residents of other resorts across the Alps started to get in touch. During Winter 2024 we’ll launch the PISTE X CODE in La Plagne, we’ll begin to create awareness in Tignes and we’ll be represented at events in various other alpine resorts too. Creating a network of motivated PISTE X CODE ambassadors in resorts across Europe is now our focus, so if you’d like to help us amplify our piste safety message in your home resort, we’d love to hear from you.
We were equally thrilled when the Ski Club of Dubai contacted us. They’ve hundreds of members, many of them are regular skiers in Europe too and we’ve just sent them a batch of Monty pin badges to award to the children in their ski lessons.
But perhaps our biggest project to date is launching an animated video aimed specifically at children. The objective is to deliver our piste safety message in an eye-catching, memorable way and we’ve enlisted the help of a professional, award-winning animation company to help us make this happen. As you might imagine, this is an expensive project and we’re hoping to fund it through crowd funding. If you’d like to make a small contribution, tap this QR code and we’ll be eternally grateful for your support!
Please look out for each other on the slopes this winter and please help to spread the PISTE X CODE message whenever you can!
Louise
By Tony Soutter of the Ellie Soutter Foundation
Shortly after the death of my daughter Ellie in 2018, I was contacted by a professor from Boston University in the States. He was researching a condition called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive and fatal brain disease caused by repeated concussions. Ellie was a snowboarder. She really was an excellent snowboarder. She was on the British Ski & Snowboard team, she’d joined the Junior Freeride World Tour, she won the bronze medal in boardercross for Team GB at the 2018 European Youth Olympic Winter Festival. We’d moved to Les Gets when she was nine years old and she loved the mountains. But during the winter seasons leading up to her death, she suffered seven major concussions, with each recovery taking longer than the previous. She didn’t even recognise me for a little while after her final concussion in 2018. But after a brain scan and some recovery time, a neurologist told me she was absolutely fine.
My daughter took her own life on her 18th birthday. She’d struggled with her mental health and the various stresses and pressures of competing at such a high level; they really weighed down on her. We quickly established The Ellie Soutter Foundation to support the careers of aspiring and talented winter sports athletes, both financially and with professional sports coaching. But at the same time
I started to research CTE myself. Key symptoms of this progressive brain disease include impulse control problems, aggression, depression, anxiety and suicidality; I’d witnessed all of these from Ellie in her final months. Freeride.com magazine in the US had written extensively about other professional winter sports athletes loosing their lives to the disease in the same year. Is this what
happened to Ellie? Unfortunately we couldn’t provide the samples that the professors from Boston University needed to diagnose CTE in Ellie. I kept my research to myself because I didn’t want anyone to think I was making excuses for Ellie’s mental health.
Alongside our work supporting aspiring winter sports athletes in
the years that followed, I’ve also worked to raise awareness of the dangers of persistent concussions. I’ve spoken in TV interviews about it, at large events and in national newspapers. Over time I’ve discovered more examples of concussion taking its toll on the mental health of sufferers. And I’m not just talking about professional athletes here; concussion is a real risk to the mental wellbeing of anyone who suffers multiple bangs to the head. That’s how CTE works.
On the whole, skiing and snowboarding are relatively safe pursuits and you’re sure to have lots of fun during your winter holiday. But at the same time, concussion is a real risk, especially for those of you who like to hit the park and take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level during your time in the mountains. My first recommendation is to buy the best ski helmet you can afford. Have it fitted correctly by a professional to ensure it’s protecting you properly and make sure it features MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) technology. If your helmet suffers an impact while you’re skiing, make sure you replace it.
The second thing you can do gives you peace of mind; take a baseline concussion test right now. Baseline concussion testing involves testing your cognitive functioning under normal, uninjured conditions. You can take these tests at home, they’re simple to perform and they’re submitted to and stored by a company such as ImPact. Then, should a collision or accident occur, medical professionals can access your baseline test to determine whether or not you’re concussed. If a concussion isn’t detected and treated correctly, symptoms can worsen.
At the Ellie Soutter Foundation we’ve joined forces with ImPact to provide baseline tests to anyone who enjoys snow sports activities, either as a professional athlete or just for fun. You can buy these tests on our rising2win. com website for just €12 each. We’ve also teamed up with Dr David Millar, one of the UK’s leading neurologists. His company Cognisant have clinics across the UK and his team are trained to deliver post-trauma testing using the ImPact baseline tests. Following an accident, you’d complete a 30 minute consultation - either online or in person - to evaluate your symptoms and make comparisons with your original baseline test. If you’ve suffered a concussion, it’s so important that it’s diagnosed quickly and accurately.
Discover more:
Head to riding2win.com now to buy your ImPact baseline test.
#riding2win is the official merchandise platform of The Ellie Soutter Foundation
RRP €140.00 adidas.com
Land Outdoor
RRP €130.00 cascada.cc
Because there’s nothing worse than cold feet during your ski holiday, invest in a pair of these Adidas Terrex snow boots and you won’t be disappointed. Both insulated and weather-resistant, these boots feature a breathable mesh lining to help keep your feet fresh, and also Terrex’s own COLD.RDY technology in addition to a traction outer sole for optimal grip. Available in three different colours.
Could this be the ultimate mountain shirt? We think so. It’s made from a breathable wool and polyester blend fabric that guarantees thermoregulation to keep you comfortable all year round. It’s insulating even when wet, making it the perfect accompaniment to your hiking adventures. The slightly brushed inner liner makes it feel cosy and there’s a slight stretch to the fabric too. We like the rounded hem on the front with a slightly longer cut on the back, which is handy when you’re pedalling your bike! The Land shirt is available in both mens and women’s fit and in a large range of different colour ways too.
RRP €100.00 // €70.00 birkenstock.com
While many of us have been wearing Birkenstocks as slippers for quite some time, the Zermatt is the company’s first true slipper, designed to be worn uniquely at home (and not in the queue at the supermarket). As you’d expect, there’s Birkenstock’s iconic cork and latex footbed with an additional shearling layer to keep your feet extra toasty. The upper is a soft wool felt available in a range of colours with cute decorative stitching too. No chalet holiday is complete without a pair of Zermatt slippers this winter.
Sojourn Shuttle Wheeled Duffel 45L RRP €300.00 osprey.com
Osprey’s Sojourn series aims to make your holiday luggage more functional and we love the HighRoad chassis on this option, which makes it easier to navigate over those uneven surfaces and snow piles when you arrive at your holiday accommodation. The top and side handles make it easy for you to switch to a duffel bag function also. Osprey’s StraightJacket protection means you’ll discover both compression straps and padded sidewalls on this model and the sturdy fabric makes it durable for heavy use also.
Sunscreen SPF 50 Zinc RRP €29.95 palmpineskincare.com
Formulated from plant-based natural ingredients and including mineral filters for premium protection from the mountain sun, a tub of Palm & Pine should be in your ski jacket pocket at all times. Designed as an alternative to chemical sun screen, everything about Palm & Pine is planet friendly, from the ingredients right through to the packaging. Available in both SPF 30 and SPF 50 options, it’s also water-resistant, making it the perfect accompaniment to your summer adventures too.
The Treeline Chalets team are known for adding unique twists to the well-established ski holiday formula. They’ve previously partnered with Michelin-starred chef Michael O’Hare for a series of culinary ski trips and last winter they hosted the first Hox Chalet. For those not in the know, the Hox is a global hospitality concept based around a series of open house hotels; they’re inspired by the diversity and originality of their surrounding environment and Morzine played host to the first ever Hox Chalet.
“It was a happy introduction between friends,” explains Heather Pigott, VP of Brand Marketing at Hox’s parent company Ennismore when I ask her how the Hox Chalet came to Morzine. “I was in Morzine on a snowboard holiday and I wanted to find our next pop-up Hox experience. A mutual friend introduced me to Amy and Duncan at Treeline Chalets and the partnership was born.” It’s no secret that Morzine is one of the most accessible ski resorts in the French Alps and as it happens, it’s our proximity to Geneva
“The small touches around the chalet were so lovely, the Grey Goose bloody Mary stations, the jars of sweets”
that stoked the interest of Hox team. “It’s so accessible,” Heather continues. “For both long and short stays, plus there’s an amazing ski area to explore!”
Treeline hosted seven individual Hox Chalet holidays during the Winter 22/23 season, implanting the unique Hox DNA to the beautiful Chalet Doyen. “We made a light touch in terms of interior design in the chalet, adding amenities to the bedrooms such as custom made robes and slippers,” Heather
explains. “Food and drink is a huge part of a stay at the Hox so we flew our own chef, bartenders and hosts out for the experience. They delivered a different Hoxton restaurant menu each evening. All of our guests loved it!”
“Getting dropped off to and from the slopes was also just amazing, really takes out the stressful bits of skiing”
The team at Treeline have been hosting mountain holidays for 15 years. “We love collaborating with like minded people and brands,” explains Duncan Ross, at Treeline. “Creating friendships, partnerships and 'stand out' experiences in our chalets and in resort is lot’s of fun! It's an absolute pleasure working with Heather and the team at Hox to bring this unique concept to the mountains.”
During the Winter 23/24 season, Treeline will host five Hox Chalet experiences, this time at Chalet Chardon. “This year we’ll be changing up the restaurant element of each stay,” explains Heather. “We’ll bring some of the newest Hox concepts to Morzine, including Cantina Valentia from Brussels, Chet’s from Shepherd’s Bush and Seabird from Southwark in London, Elio from Rome, and Breman Brasserie from Amsterdam.” Last year the Hox Chalet also included Grey Goose vodka to get the apres party started. “Our bartenders gave all our guests a masterclass in the perfect Martini, they had DIY and bespoke cocktails on tap throughout their stay,” continues Heather. “This year we’re also working with luggage brand Db to deck our guests out before they hit the slopes.”
An impressive list of added features are included in a Hox holiday with Treeline Chalets. There’s the food and drink menus, but also a digital survival guide for the village, a custom-made Hoxton ski map which demonstrates the best places in the Portes du Soleil for a cocktail, Marshall radios in bedrooms and Blank toiletries in bathrooms.
“Loved the Hox polaroid camera”
It’s really interesting to see a large, carefully curated hospitality brand pop up here in the mountains. Morzine is known for its unique, independent and authentic village atmosphere, but the blend between Treeline and Hox seems to fit perfectly. “It’s the small touches and the guest experience,” explains Heather when I enquire as to how Hox transport their unique culture to the mountains. “And we filled a massive van!”
“The team at Treeline are vital in making the Hox Chalet project work” believes Heather. “They take all of the expert organisation off our hands, helping us with everything from supermarket runs to managing airport transfers for guests and media. They take care of the daily housekeeping and their team support ours when it comes to serving meals. We definitely could not have even contemplated doing this without that level of support from Treeline Chalets.”
Discover more:
During Winter 24, Hox takes over Treeline’s Chalet Chardon, which includes both a sauna and an outdoor hot tub, for seven unique stays, with prices starting at £1650 per person for a seven night, fully-catered trip. Exclusive use and by-by-the-room packages are available. Check availability and book online at treelinechalets.com
By Carrie Greer of Little
What does Wild mean to you? I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how we consider our outside spaces and what we think of as ‘Wild’ or not. My holistic therapy business is called Little Wild for two reasons; my uncontrollable, steep and over-grown back garden and also after that little part inside of us that, no matter how much we adhere to social constraints and lifestyle ‘rules’, just wants to be crazy, fun, free… and wild.
I’d been calling our back garden ‘the little wild’ for years and each spring I’d be determined to tame it, cut it back and make it into some sort of well-manicured, useable space, despite how steep - and yes, wild - it is. Every year it would defeat me and by the time summer got really hot, I’d just give up. Now I’ve completely given up. It’s wild, there’s so much life in that space. Fruit trees, bushes, wild herbs, wildflowers, grasses, birds, mice, voles, bees, butterflies, ground wasps, local cats, there was a fox family living up there until we got a dog. I sit on the deck, looking up at what I used to consider to be chaos, and I don’t feel any guilt for its constant re-wilding.
My husband and I both grew up in Manchester and moved to Morzine together. Despite our old suburb probably being one of the greenest in the city, I would never have defined it as ‘Wild’. I never really thought about how important the green spaces around me were. Despite being a city family, I always had an appreciation for the outside. I remember being around 13 years old and desperate to be 17 so I could learn to drive and take myself off to the ‘hills’ that you can see
on the skyline as you drive over Barton Bridge on the M60. In our early twenties my husband and I got National Trust memberships and we’d explore all the parkland around our local area, then - when we could afford it - head off for weekend breaks further afield. We loved exploring, having some of our best and most important life conversations and really seeing the beauty of the country, so different to our terraced Mancunian street.
It was only when we went on our first snowboarding holiday that my appreciation for the outside became more of a need for it. I couldn’t believe the scale and scope of these mountains. I knew they were beautiful, but I didn’t realise how they would make me feel. After a few more years of holidays in Europe, Canada and then our wedding in Austria and honeymoon in Colorado, we decided to do a winter season in Morzine. Living in the mountains, however briefly, changed our lives. We knew we had to make a permanent move and although it took another year, when we finally made it to a tiny rental chalet on the side of the mountain ten years ago, with deer
walking through the garden and views for days, we felt settled, rooted, instantly.
My connection with the earth around us, the wonder and beauty of the natural world - the Wild - has expanded and mirrored itself in the same way that my work has changed. Moving from traditional beauty therapy to a very holistic and energy driven treatment menu, I now talk all the time on my socials and in the treatment room about time in nature, grounding and finding time to just be still and reflective outside, with your feet on the ground, on the grass or in the river, sending that breath deep through your body, slowing down, coming to rest in this moment. Just you, the earth beneath you and if you like to, letting the rush of the river take away anything you need to release or let go of, let it flow away from you and find your stillness, your peace.
Living here, it’s so easy to get outside. To be in these epic views, not just looking at them. Does that make it easier to let things go? Life here often looks like a dream because visually, and considering what we often see on social
media, it is gorgeous. Perfect landscapes, magical sunsets, the excitement of the first snowfall or the unadulterated joy of a bluebird powder day. We have made good choices to live here, but that doesn’t mean that our day-to-day is easier. Life as an expat is tough, my stress levels and anxiety have been worse here than they ever were when we lived in the UK, so it’s not all sunshine and fresh snowfall. Yet how we choose to spend our downtime is definitively different to that of our UK life. The lifestyle is different, everyone has different work patterns and as I’ve written previously, the interseason (spring and autumn) brings a quieter kind of calm after the intensity of the winter and summer seasons.
As I’ve gotten older I’ve been navigating more of the things that life throws at us as we age. My outlook on what I value has changed so much; time, space and peace are major players now. I do massively appreciate the ease of being able to get outside, for the morning dog walk, for a Monday hike into the mountains where you may not meet another person, for a weekend that’s full of snowy mountain fun; this all became my Wild and I feared recently that I’d become a little too smug about that. I had a good chat with myself when we first moved here about not taking any of this for granted, about making sure that every day I appreciate what we have before us and what we have passed through to be here. I think for the most part I don’t take it for granted, but perhaps I became a little blurred round the edges as to what a Wild should be.
I have a gratitude practice these days. I look out at our beautiful view of the valley each day and I really do look at it. I place my feet on the earth and I breathe. I send my roots down deep and I search for balance and I know to come back to this little ritual when I feel chaos arrive within me; that’s all good and has been so beneficial for me, especially over the last few years. However, how much do I ‘need’ the space that’s around me to bring me that calm? Is it the mountains that bring me that feeling? Or am I capable of getting to that same place of stillness, wherever I am?
Within all of us there is that part which does not want to be tamed. A part that fights out against rules, standards and social constraints. It is wildest within us when we’re a toddler, then gets pushed little by little behind school, exams, jobs, bills, materialism, all those things that as wethe collective - have loaded upon ourselves to be a measure of ‘success’. As adults it’s hard to reconnect with that place, that feeling, buried deep within. During your holiday here this winter, in this beautiful Wild of the Portes du Soleil, why not take a moment to find your breath, rediscover your stillness in the energy of these beautiful mountains, then take that calm, that being in that moment, home with you. Find it again in the smallest and most humble of spaces, a quiet walk in the trees, a canal side path, sitting by a pond, a football field at the end of your street, an old golf course through a gap in a hedge, your back garden, your balcony, a patch of grass where nothing but dandelions will grow.
That’s your own bit of Wild right there, always around you, always within you, waiting for you to let it break free. More Info: Discover Carrie's full range of energy treatments and book online at littlewildspace.com
the stash t-shirt rrp €30.00 TBC thestash-avoriaz.com
If you’re one of those skiers or snowboarders that spends many a happy moment in the iconic Stash in Avoriaz during your winter holiday, then don’t leave town without a muchcoveted Stash t-shirt. Available in both black and white and in a range of sizes from small to extra large, order online for delivery and while you’re on the Stash website you’ll discover a load of other cool merch too!
ain't no mountain high enough t-shirt price €30.00 shop.morzinesourcemagazine.com
You asked, we listened and this winter we’ve produced a very limited quantity of our custom magazine cover artwork by illustrator Dylan Fant in t-shirt form. The ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ graphic aims to capture that unique village vibe that you’ll experience in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz, it pays homage to our mountain communities and it looks beautiful too. Order in the Morzine Source Magazine shop for home delivery, or for collection in Morzine or Les Gets during your holiday.
One Mountain, One Village price €19.00 ski-morzine.com
Celebrating 90 years on Morzine’s Pleney, the English version of this beautiful coffee table book is available to pre-order (see the QR code on page 34 of this magazine) or head to Librarie Passaquin in the centre of Morzine for any spare English copies (the French versions are available there too!). This book charts the history of Morzine and includes stunning old images that show what life was once like in your favourite ski resorts.
It’s impossible to have too many tote bags in your life! This beautiful ‘Fondue’ example was designed locally to raise money for the APE of our local schools. Profits from the sale of the bags will help to fund activities and trips for local school children while also brightening up your shopping experience. To buy a bag email apeblancheneige74@hotmail.com or visit our webshop.
A collaborative art project by local photographer Oliver Godbold and illustrator Lili Chan, Creature Kapture overlays beautiful, fun and characterful creatures on top of striking mountain images, telling the story of a magical winter world. Imaginative stories accompany each creature, such as King Goldfish of Lake Montriond, a giant fish that roams the depths of the lake, using his powers to revive the delicate balance of life in his natural habitat. This is a unique project inspired by the beauty that surrounds us. Oliver and Lili’s work is available to buy on Etsy.
There’s no such thing as too many mugs in our option and here’s your chance to take home the ultimate Stash souvenir. Shreddie himself has designed this metal, 280ml mug, it’ll look great in your kitchen or out in the wild. Head directly to thestash-avoriaz.com to see what else the big man has lined up for you this winter.
We post huge volumes of our printed magazines to our subscribers around the world. For just €15 you can subscribe to the next two issues of our magazine, they’ll land in your post box on our publication dates in June and December each year. We also have a limited quantity of back issues for any collectors out there! A Morzine Source Magazine annual subscription makes the perfect gift for the mountain lover in your life, order now in the Source web shop.
OUR PICK OF RESORT EVENTS TO HELP YOU TO ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY
Morzine - 9th & 10th Dec 2023
The winter version of the Spartan Race is just as punishing as its summer alternative, with a demanding course around the local ski area. Experienced Spartans will be pleased to hear that it’s without obstacles however! The trail run courses range in length from 10k to a full marathon and with an average temperature of just 5 degrees, preparation is everything. Expect varied terrain, lots of climbing and some pretty stunning views along the way. There’s also a children’s race on the Saturday, head to the website for more details.
Discover more: spartantrail.com
Les Gets - 13th - 20th Jan 2024
Back for a second year of LOLS, Les Gets hosts some of the finest French and British stand-up talent over a week-long comedy festival. With two nights in French and two nights in English, gigs take place at the Salle de La Colombiere in the centre of the village and tickets are priced at €40 per person. On the British line up this year you’ll find Maisie Adam, Suzi Rufell and Lara Ricote, to name just a few.
Discover more: lesgets.com
Montriond - 12th December 2023
Join Morzine Source Magazine on the shores of Lac de Montriond as we host another extra-special evening of short films. The European Outdoor Film Tour is Europe’s largest adventure and outdoor film tour and on this evening we’ll assemble for a traditional Tartiflette followed by two hours of inspiring films in an incredible setting. As always, we’ll donate profits from this event to Secours en Montagne, our local mountain rescue volunteers. A number of secourists will also join us on the evening. Tickets are priced at €30 including an arrival drink and dinner, head to shop.morzinesourcemagazine.com to reserve yours now as this event always sells out in advance.
tickets: shop.morzinesourcemagazine.com
Avoriaz - 27th & 28th Jan 2024
One of the best-attended amateur snowboard events of the winter, Avoriaz plays host to the Mystery Series. This year it will be hotly contested on a banked slalom through the snowy streets of Avoriaz. Register in advance, the competition takes place between 11am and 5pm and you’ll need a lift pass to access the course.
Discover more: burton.com
Avoriaz - 15th - 17th Dec 2023
Avoriaz launches the winter season in style with this annual festival dedicated to all things snow. With 80 different winter sports brands in attendance, this is your chance to try out the new season’s skis and snowboards as the resort comes to life. Expect pro riders, live music and your chance to enjoy your first raclette of the season. Join in the fun each day between 9am and 7pm in the area outside the Prodains 3S top station.
Discover more: rockonsnow.com
Avoriaz, Morzine, St Jean d’Aulps, Les Gets, Chatel 27th Jan - 3rd Feb 2024
Various resorts across the Portes du Soleil host the best junior downhill racers in the world over the course of this week. For the first time the international competition will be shared across five different resorts with six different ski disciplines on display and 600 skiers representing 54 different counties all competing for 33 medals. Keep an eye on the online programme for race schedules across the ski area. All events are free to watch.
Discover more: juniors2024.ski
French Snow Bike Championships
Les Gets - 3rd & 4th February 2024
Snow-biking used to be a bit of fun, but now it’s a serious, national competition! During Winter 24 Les Gets plays host to this unique sporting challenge, a fusion between skiing and mountain biking and all events are free to spectate. The first timed heat takes place from 11.15am on Saturday 3rd and the second from 10.15am on Sunday 4th, both on the Chamois piste of Mont Chéry.
Discover more: lesgets.com
Volcom Spot to Spot
Avoriaz - 3rd & 4th February 2024
A snowboard competition with a unique format that moves from spot to spot around the Avoriaz ski area and hosting some of the best amateur and pro riders in our region. Expect DJs, a bar and refreshments when the event moves to the la Chapelle park in Avoriaz. Cold, hard cash is up for grabs too!
Discover more: volcom.fr
Snowboxx
Avoriaz - 16th - 23rd Mar 2024
Celebrating its 10th birthday, Snowboxx is an action-packed week of massive live music events and DJs on a huge main stage on the Avoriaz plateau, combined with piste-side events, apres parties and much more. You can expect the festival to be fully booked by the time you’re reading this magazine, however ‘main-stage-only’ festival wristbands will be available to buy in-resort in the days leading up to Snowboxx 24. Keep an eye on our social channels for more details.
Discover more: snowboxx.com
Rock The Pistes
Portes du Soleil - 17th - 23rd Mar 2024
This annual live music festival tours the pistes of the Portes du Soleil over the course of the week, hosting global acts for afternoon concerts. All Rock The Pistes events are free to attend, you just need your lift pass to access them. Expect a number of spin-off live music events in bars and venues across the Portes du Soleil. For the full line-up and festival schedule, head to the Rock the Piste website.
Discover more: rockthepistes.com
Le Tremplin End Of Season Party
Morzine - Saturday 30th
For the unfamiliar, Morzine’s Le Tremplin plays host to a legendary end of season party each winter and this year will be no different. Descend the Pleney and ski straight to the outdoor bar. Settle in for a steady stream of incredible DJs, save your very best dance moves for Le Tremplin’s packed dance floor, let’s end the season in style! This year the party begins at 3pm and runs all the way through until 8pm. We’ll see you there!
facebook: /LeTremplinMorzine
A fantastic community pub and restaurant in Morzine with a menu that’s constantly changing. Expect holiday classics as well as Sunday roasts, fish and chip suppers and the odd spicy curry thrown in for good measure. There’s also lighter bites, cocktails and a kids menu too. Head to the back of the bar for a big screen TV that’s regularly showing live sports action.
Reserve your table by calling
+33 (0) 4 50 72 74 65
One of Morzine’s most popular restaurants, L’Etale has an enormous menu that’s certain to suit all tastes; think pizzas, pasta dishes, noodles, steaks and Savoyarde classics including fondue and raclette. You’ll find the restaurant just metres from the bottom of Morzine’s Pleney telecabine and food is served, all day, non-stop, between 11am and midnight.
Book your table in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 79 09 29
This gastronomique-themed restaurant is housed inside a beautifully refurbished barn on the outskirts of Morzine, along the route des Nants. The menu features classic French dishes such as foie gras wrapped in truffle crust pastry and lamb with a honey and sherry reduction, making this a memorable fine dining experience in beautiful surroundings during your winter holiday.
For table reservations call
+33 (0) 6 46 14 80 59
If you’re gathering up a picnic to enjoy on the mountain or in the cable car, head directly to Au P’tit Casse Croute in the centre of Morzine. Choose a sandwich or piadina (folded Italian flatbread) stuffed with delicious, fresh ingredients, plus salads, sweet drinks, tea coffee and more. New for this winter, enjoy a selection of homemade pies, served hot and featuring a delicious filling. Reserve your picnic in advance or pop in on your way to the lift station.
Reserve your picnic in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 75 94 24
A chic cocktail bar, a large, funky restaurant and late night entertainment venue combined under one well-located roof in the centre of Les Gets. The menu at La Bokka combines fresh, authentic Italian ingredients. Expect live bands and DJs to keep the party going long after dinner has finished with a very fine wine list to accompany.
Reserve your table in advance
+33 (0) 4 80 16 12 60 bokka-lesgets.com
Ski-in, ski-out of this very stylish deli in Avoriaz, where there’s a focus on local products, high quality wines and cosy areas for you to stay and enjoy a moment as the snow falls outside. You can also pre-order meals to enjoy at home, while a visit to the wine cave is unmissable! You’ll find Le R at 85 Place des Dromonts in Avoriaz,
view the menu at traiteur-avoriaz.com
Two separate venues in one beautiful Avoriaz location. Lounge Roc is a chic, luxurious cocktail and wine bar with an adjoining restaurant and it makes the perfect location for a late night out. The fun continues next door at Strike Roc, Avoriaz’s famous bowling alley which also includes arcade games, a pool able, abbey-foot and more.
discover more roc-avoriaz.com
The Wood Yard is the restaurant and tap room and adjoining the Ibex Brewery (head to page 142 for details!). Inside you’ll discover ten lines of beer including your Ibex favourites and guest beers too, alongside an exciting, unique menu that features street food and a changing lunch menu. This winter we can expect tasting events, live music and more. The Wood Yard is located in Montriond, talk there along the Dereches river path.
discover more at ibexbeer.com
Located in the village of Le Biot and delivering across our valley, Fat Tom’s Deli & Delivery serves up fresh, delicious meals, delivered to your door or available for collection from the deli. They can be reheated at your convenience, making them perfect following a day on the slopes. Expect seasonal ingredients, regional cheeses, cooked and cured meats with loads of added flavour.
discover more at fattomsdeli.com
One of the busiest restaurants in Morzine, La Grange has an excellent reputation for serving up classic Savoyarde dishes and it’s our favourite place to go for a fondue. This is a cosy, traditional restaurant and over the years owners Alex and Fred have gathered a loyal following of holiday makers who return year after year. Of course that means you’ll need to book in advance
One of the most characterful and atmospheric restaurants in Avoriaz, La Cachette has been recently refurbished in an authentic mountain lodge style. The focus here is on the most traditional of Savoyarde dishes so expect fondue, raclette and beyond. There’s a handy online booking function on the website and dishes are available to take away too.
discover more & reservations lacachetteavoriaz.com
+33 (0)4 80 16 12 81
Complete with a brand new indoor dining area for this winter season, Kamado Kitchen continue to serve up delicious pan-Asian dishes to eat in or to take away. Think Thai Massaman, Japanese Katsu, Cambodian Aubergine and Korean Japchae to provide the perfect break from your cheese and ham-fuelled mountain holiday. order in advance
+33 (0)7 57 67 02 72
Enhancing Morzine’s speciality coffee scene and located on the rue du Bourg in the centre of the village, Solide serves up a long list of hot beverages, a delicious range of homemade cakes and a lunch menu that changes regularly and relies heavily on the freshest, local produce. There’s a cosy space inside for those colder days and a sunny terrace out front that’s perfect for springtime.
opening hours and menu facebook.com/solide.cafe
One of Morzine’s most popular late night drinking dens has had a makeover this autumn; you’ll now find sports bar vibes inside Cafe Chaud, designed to facilitate an excellent afternoon of sports watching during your winter holiday. They’ll be showing all and any live sport on the big TVs in the bar and here’s the best bet… it’s Happy Hour any time there’s sport on the TV. Open every day from 3pm, once the sports have concluded, normal service resumes, including live DJs with funk, soul, hop hop and house until late.
View the full agenda facebook.com/cafechaud.morzine
With a menu to suit all appetites and including great children’s options, Le Colibri comes complete with an indoor children’s play area, cosy seating and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for little ones. Whether you’re looking for a place to settle for the afternoon and drink hot chocolate while the snow falls outside or an early evening supper, Le Colibri is the perfect spot in the centre of Morzine.
Book your table in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 06 18 53
There’s always something a bit special about dining in a hotel restaurant and at Le Dahu, the lights of Morzine twinkle below you. The menu embraces fresh, local and seasonal ingredients to offer you a true taste of the mountains. There’s a cosy bar for pre- and post-dinner drinks and a beautiful dining room from which you can enjoy the stunning views across the whole valley. You absolutely must book a table in advance to dine at Le Dahu,
Book your table in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 06 18 53
The tea room at the majestic Abbaye d’Aulps in St Jean d’Aulps is a beautiful spot, in the shadow of the ancient ruin and facing the beautiful working gardens. On the menu you’ll discover a large range of herbal teas, specialist Abbaye beers, homemade terrines, sandwiches, soups, cakes and ice creams, all served in this unique, quiet spot. The tea room is open each day between midday and 6.30pm.
discover more abbayedaulps.fr
Located within the Hive gym in Morzine and serving up healthy, fresh meals and smoothies, some slightly naughty cakes and a very tasty coffee. It’s location makes it handy for those post-workout snacks while the cafe itself is a great place to hang out with your laptop for a couple of hours. Try the Hoisin Duck wrap, you won’t be disappointed!
for menu details Search Wild Beets Kitchen Morzine
This lively bar in the centre of Morzine is perfect for pre-dinner drinks and you’ll discover a huge range of great drinks behind the bar. Le Crepu is usually packed from late afternoon until late in the evening, so there’s always a great atmosphere on the terrace and inside, especially during apres hours. It’s also just minutes from some of Morzine’s best restaurants too.
instagram @le.crepu
For those nights when you want to simply snuggle up on the sofa and enjoy a simple, home cooked dinner, minus the actual cooking. Bon Appetite deliver delicious frozen dinners directly to your accommodation. Simply pre-order on their website and they’ll arrive the following day, ready for you to cook. Think warming cottage pies, really excellent curries and even deserts too.
Pre-order now bonappetitalpes.com
Famous for contemporary cuisine and exceptional service, the restaurant sits within this exceptional four-star hotel. As you’d expect, the vibe is tres chic and the bar is a very cool place to hang out for apres. Open for lunch and dinner, there’s an intimate, cosy vibe that feels very different to everywhere else in the resort.
reservations & menu hotelmil8.com
Biskatcha
Just off the slopes in Les Gets and within the Hotel La Marmotte, you’ll discover this great restaurant where service is friendly and speedy and the menu expansive to suit all tastes. There’s a great value, daily changing menu and plat du jour featuring seasonal, local ingredients and often with a fun twist. It’s entirely fine to visit La Biskatcha in your ski kit, also!
Reserve your table +33 (0) 4 50 84 55 35
Located slightly down the valley in St Jean d’Aulps, Bar Le National is always a great night out with a proper pub feel. It’s busy from apres until late each day throughout the winter season while the kitchen serves up incredible pizzas and many other treats. Plan your night right and you might even end up winning a pub quiz! Keep an eye on what’s going on via Facebook
In many ways a pizza makes the perfect apres-ski meal and at L’Improviste in the centre of Morzine you’ll find a long list of both classic pizzas and unexpected toppings to eat in or take away. Available to order by telephone for take-away or to enjoy inside the really cosy yet contemporary restaurant for a very casual dinner. If you’re felling adventurous, try the Sicilienne, you won’t regret it!
Book your table or order a takeaway
+33 (0) 4 50 04 63 80
Located within the Annapurna residence in Les Gets, Vina is a chic, contemporary restaurant where the menu has been carefully constructed by Michelin-trained chef Anthony Trezy. It features the finest local ingredients, the service is slick and the atmosphere refined. It’s always a good idea to book your table in advance.
reservations
+33 (0) 4 50 86 31 12
This ski-in, ski-out restaurant at the Chavannes mid-station in Les Gets was extensively refurbished a couple of winters ago and has an expansive terrace with a menu featuring all your favourite mountain dishes, plus some exciting extras. This is a real foodie lunch and the restaurant can also be access easily on foot via the Chavannes cable car.
Reserve your table
+33 (0) 6 75 11 31 58
Satellite Coffee - Morzine
Because sometimes, a long, sit-down lunch in a restaurant isn’t in order, Satellite Coffee on the rue du Bourg in Morzine serve up fresh, tasty dishes with a healthy twist alongside tasty cakes and incredible coffee too. There’s also those famous bacon and sausage baps to collect on your way to the lifts each morning. Available to eat in or take away, there’s a sunny terrace also.
to view the menu visit satellitecoffee.fr
Changabang - Avoriaz
Good times guaranteed inside this fast food eatery in Avoriaz, which sits directly opposite the Prodains Express top station. Perfect for those days when the sun is shining and you’ve no time to waste at a restaurant table, Changabang is also a really popular end of day beer stop before taking the home run back to the bus stop. Follow changabang on Instagram for updates throughout the season.
@le.changabang
Cavern Bar - Morzine
Morzine’s Cavern Bar is the home of your holiday party and you’ll find a unique, memorable atmosphere until the early hours. The Cavern is the place to go to hear incredible live music, with a selection of superb touring bands regularly taking to the stage. Check Facebook for gig announcements and updates.
TheCavernBarMorzine
Located at the heart of the famous goat village and offering the warmest welcome, Le Chaudron is a ‘must do’ lunch spot in the mountains. The menu is vast and delicious, offering everything from local and regional specialities to fresh salads and more, plus there’s a great children’s menu too. Dine on the sunny terrace and watch the skiers go by or take refuge inside the cosy restaurant if the weather is less than perfect.
book your table in advance
+33
The charming village of Essert Romand, just a couple of kilometres from Morzine, is home to La Petite Auberge, a familyrun restaurant with a menu that’s sure to include all of your Savoyarde favourites. There’s a pretty outdoor terrace and cosy decor inside, plus a warm welcome from a lovely team.
table reservations
+33 (0) 4 50 37 31 96
La Rotonde in the centre of Morzine is perfect if you’re looking for something a bit special as the menu not only includes Savoyarde favourites but also global flavours, extra-fresh salads and there’s a super wine list too. Come springtime, the pretty garden is the perfect place for lunch.
book a table
+33 (0) 4 50 79 16 30
Hotel Mil8 - Avoriaz
Famous for contemporary cuisine and exceptional service, the restaurant sits within this exceptional four-star hotel. As you’d expect, the vibe is tres chic and the bar is a very cool place to hang out for apres. Open for lunch and dinner, there’s an intimate, cosy vibe that feels very different to everywhere else in the resort.
reservations & menu hotelmil8.com
A rite of passage during every holiday in our valley, Hotel du Lac is the perfect setting on the shores of Lac de Montriond. Settle into the hotel’s cosy restaurant to enjoy a menu that carefully considers fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Keep an eye on the hotel’s Facebook page for menu updates, live music events and speciality cocktails.
facebook lac.de.montriond
One of the busiest restaurants in Morzine, which makes advance booking essential, the menu at Hideout is packed with panasian dishes and takes inspiration all the way from Vietnam to Osaka. There’s also a list of weekly specials, in case you manage to make your way through the whole menu.
reservations
+33 (0) 7 49 28 27 56 eat@stayhideout.com
There’s no shame in admitting that you like to consume cheese for breakfast, lunch and dinner during your ski holiday. We’d argue that it makes you ski faster. Stock up with Benjamin and his team at Refuge L’Abricotine, where specialities include tartiflette, berthoud (Abondance cheese, boiled potatoes and smoked ham) and the Gratinée de l’Abricotine featuring potatoes, lardons, cream and more Abondance cheese. L’Abricotine is located at the base of the Brochaux and Mossettes chairs above les Lindarets.
For table reservations
+33 (0) 6 28 70 05 59
Widely regarded as the best burger bar in Morzine, the menu is available to eat in or to take away. The selection is huge and its great for families too. Here’s a top tip for vegetarians; every burger on the menu is available as a veggie alternative! Savoury and sweet crepes are also available, as are bagels, which make a really great breakfast on the run. You’ll find O Chalet on the Route de la Combe a Zore in the centre of Morzine, look out for a brand new O’Chalet in Les Gets this winter!
get in contact
+33 (0) 4 50 79 17 18
This is the late night watering hole your holiday needs! Open until 2am every night and with live music or a live DJ every evening, the Tibetan is a lively bar with an enormous range of speciality gins. It’s also a great place to watch live sport with several HD TVs around the bar for your viewing pleasure. Stay up to date with gigs and sports coverage on their Facebook page. - TibetanCafeMorzine
facebook TibetanCafeMorzine
Can there be a better treat after an hour on an outdoor ice rink than a freshly-prepared, Nutella-loaded crepe with an accompanying hot chocolate? We think not, so it’s exciting to hear that the existing creperie adjacent to Barnes Immobilier and directly opposite the ice rink in Les Gets gets a new lease of life this winter. You’ll notice some subtle changes to begin with such as an exceptional new range of coffees, ahead of a larger refurbishment project in the springtime, but know that the crepes are exceptional.
view menu claudie-coffee.com
A warm welcome awaits you in this popular Montriond restaurant, where the menu includes delicious pizzas, Savoyarde favourites and an extra special specials board. Located in the beautiful village square opposite the church, pizzas are also available to take away. Book your table to avoid disappointment!
table reservations +33 (0) 4 50 75 78 47
With food served all day and an unbeatable location at the bottom of Morzine’s pistes, just opposite the Pleney telecabine, Le Tremplin is the perfect spot to rendezvous with friends for a quick brew on your way up the mountain each day. The terrace menu is a treat for lunch on sunny afternoons and there’s a marvellous range of rose wine, if that’s your tipple. Keep an eye on Le Tremplin’s Facebook page for menu updates
facebook /LeTremplinMorzine
You’ll find this cosy pub-style bar and restaurant in the centre of Montriond, serving up a large selection of beers including locally-brewed options in addition to a tasty menu that features French classics and global flavours. The bar is open from 3.30pm until 11pm each day with food served between 4pm and 9.30pm.
View the menu lamarmottedor.com
Imagine how beautiful our valley is once the snow has melted, the mercury reaches 30 degrees and the surrounding forests are a kaleidoscope of colour. If you’re bored of packing onto the beaches of the Med, maybe you should consider a trip to Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz for your next summer holiday instead. Here’s all the information you need to help you plan your ultimate mountain break.
OPENING DATES:
Those ski lifts you’re using to explore the Portes du Soleil during the winter season… many of them are open during the summer months too!
Morzine Bike Park:
Opens on Friday 31st May 2024 for a series of pre-opening weekends before continuous opening commences on Friday 14th June until Sunday 15th September.
Avoriaz Bike Park:
Opens continuously between Saturday 15th June and Sunday 15th September.
les gets Bike Park:
Opens on Friday 24th May 2024 for a series of pre-opening weekends before continuous opening commences on Friday 14th June until Sunday 15th September. Two lifts on the wonderful Mont Chéry will also open between Friday 21st June 2024 and 1st September.
EVENTS:
Pass’Portes du Soleil: 28th, 29th & 30th June 2024
This is the largest mountain bike challenge in Europe. Competitors complete an 80km course across the Portes du Soleil in just one day, passing through resorts in both France and Switzerland. The start lines and finish lines vary depending on which resort you’re staying in, yet the route remains the same. The Pass’Portes du Soleil is a challenge for sure, but many mountain bikers return year after year to soak up the unique atmosphere. Registration for the 2024 event opens on 17th January and this year the accompanying bike festival will be hosted by Châtel.
UCI Mountain Bike
World Series Festival: 28th June - 7th July 2024
This is the UCI’s flagship mountain bike event and it returns to the villages and valleys of the Haute Savoie once again during summer 2024. During the festival the best mountain bikers in the world will compete in their individual disciplines, with Les Gets expected to once again host the Downhill events between 5th and 7th July.
Summer Spartan Race: 5th, 6th & 7th July 2024
Morzine occupies a very firm spot on the global Spartan race calendar and this summer’s event is actually the Ultra World Championships and a Trifecta weekend. This means it’s possible to complete all three different Sparan races, from the 5km ‘sprint' to the 21km ‘beast’ in just one weekend. Look out for the kids races too, they’re incredible fun and take place on a purpose-built obstacle course around Morzine’s Dereches.
Harley Days: 11th - 14th July 2024
Every other year Morzine welcomes the famous HOG (Harley Owners Group) to the village for a spectacular weekend that features a lot of chrome and a lot of leather. On the whole, the Harley Davidson are a fun bunch and they bring a lot of atmosphere to the village, particularly during their free live concert evenings. The event concludes with a fantastic Bastille Day celebration on 14th July.
The Morzine, Montriond, Avoriaz Triathlon: 31st August 2024
Imagine a triathlon that takes in some of the most challenging yet beautiful routes in the Alps. The MMA has become one of the most established sporting events of the summer season, attracting professional athletes and local amateurs; they’ll take on a variety of courses, from the Super Sprint to the Olympic distance, there’s a team triathlon option too and a brilliantly-organised triathlon for children. Head to mmatriathlon.com for more information and registration details.
OTHER THINGS WE LOVE:
Peace & Quiet:
Granted, our villages and local pistes can get a bit busy during the winter season, but during the summer months they’re calm, tranquil places to be. There’s a relaxed vibe that’s conducive to a really peaceful holiday and you’ll feel no obligation to pack your days with activities and adventure. Hours spent by a pristine alpine lake reading a good book, long lunches featuring traditional dishes in the sunshine, balmy evenings watching an incredible sunset… you’ll end your holiday feeling well-rested and ready to return next year.
Activities:
By contrast, it’s also possible to pack your days with activities and adventure. From white water rafting to hiking, from long days at the swimming pool to twilight hours at Alta Lumina, there’s a long list of activities to keep everyone in your group happy.
Swimming:
There’s no shortage of water-based activities and family fun between our villages. Lac de Montriond is the perfect base for an afternoon in the sunshine, with two swimming lakes for you to choose from. Similarly in Les Gets, the swimming lake is clean, fresh and even hosts the fantastic Wibit inflatable water park too. In Morzine, the indoor and outdoor swimming pools at the Parc des Dereches are perfect for families while Aquariaz in the centre of Avoriaz is a must-do activity, especially if the summer weather isn’t playing ball.
Sunny Terraces:
Dining out is a popular summer pastime here in the mountains. Take a ski lift or hike into the hills to eat some of the most delicious Savoyarde dishes on a sunny terrace with spectacular views. Similarly in the evening, dining alfresco really is an occasion and a chance to soak up the local atmosphere.
