Carving up the slopes of Avoriaz on a pair of twin-tips during the winter is an amazing experience, but, as Richerd Bartlett discovers after speaking with a few locals, most say summers are the preferred season. Via Ferrata Aquariaz If you’ve spent any time in Avoriaz this winter you may have pondered, what’s the best way to conquer the mountainside when the snow melts away? Hiking and walking are certainly possibilities but what if you want to tell your friends and family you took the ‘Iron Road’ across the mountain? Convoys of Italian military personnel first used such tracks in the Dolomite Mountains back during the First World War. This ‘Iron Road’ roughly translates from the Italian word ‘Via Ferrara’. For those with a keen sense of adventure, Via Ferrata will take you across the mountain ridges without the need for complicated climbing equipment. For amazing panoramic views of Avoriaz, between 1800-2023m, via ferrata will allow you to see the valley in full bloom this summer. No prior military experience is necessary thankfully! Adult: 33€-36€ Kids Sessions: 90€ (3 sessions 9-13 years) Take a guide with you: Evolution 2 +33 (0)6 68 93 06 79 info@ecoledgeglisse.com www.ecoledgeglisse.com
If only one word will get you to Avoriaz this summer, it should be ‘Slidewinder’. Imagine an indoor aquatic half pipe of epic proportions built with one purpose: to make you tie those swimming trunks extra tight. With the help of a buoy you will power down the sleek jet powered water slope, rotating with flailing arms. Gravity will send you and buoy soaring up the opposing face. Be warned, you could take this ride numerous times! From the genius builders and designers at Centre Parcs and taking just over a year to complete, Avoriaz patiently awaits the grand opening of its multi-feature, megafun water park, ‘Aquariaz’ on July 1st. The 2500msq2 complex will consist of five unique and exciting themes for all the family to jump into feet first. Adult: €8 Child: €5 Week passes are also available. Location: Just beyond the Dromonts drag lift. Contact the Office de Tourisme for more details.
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15/03/2012 18:21