Skiing Les Portes Du Soleil In The French Alps

By Mandy Burkholder | December 14, 2015

Skiing Les Portes Du Soleil In The French Alps

Les Portes du Soleil is a major ski destination in the French Alps. As one of the two largest ski areas in the world (ranked next to Les Trois Vallées), Les Portes du Soleil is conveniently located between Geneva, Switzerland and Mont Blanc in France.

It’s noted that there are more than 400 miles of marked runs (with more than half being greens and blues) so it’s really the perfect destination if you’re bringing a group with varying degrees of expertise. Another advantageous aspect to choosing Les Portes du Soleil is the ability to purchase passes for the entire ski area or specific resorts. This makes it much easier to plan a ski holiday—will you be there for more than a few days and get bored skiing the same runs? If so, invest in the area-wide ski pass.

I’ve spent many days taking in the views and sunshine at Les Portes du Solieil, so I’ve decided to put all my knowledge (and bad facial tan lines) to good use. Here are a few of the best home-base options in Les Portes du Soleil for your next French ski holiday.

Morzine-Avoriaz

Number one on my personal list is Morzine-Avoriaz, due to the charming car-free ski village at Avoriaz, short lift lines, the vast amount of runs, and general ease of visiting. Just a little over an hour away from Geneva, the ski area is full of exceptional views and even better off-piste runs. Many people buy lift tickets that apply to both Morzine and Avoriaz, simply to reach the more challenging runs here.

Les Gets

Les Gets makes this list because of it’s sheer ease. Less than an hour from Geneva, it’s no problem to rise, hit the road, and be in line for first chair. Known for having primarily green and blue runs, Les Gets is a winner for families with young children and the local Genevois.

Châtel

Bordering France and Switzerland, Châtel is a typical Savoyard village. The ski areas, called Super Châtel and Linga/Pre La Joux, are dominated by red and black runs. The best part? You can take some of these runs all the way to Avoriaz if you wish to continue your journey a little longer. Just don’t get left on the mountain after the lifts close!

Les Crosets

For a distinctly traditional and charming feel, consider planning a holiday at Les Crosets. One of the smaller resorts in Les Portes du Soleil, Les Crosets remains untouched by typical tourist traps. With stunning views of the Dents Du Midi mountains, it’s no wonder that families keep coming back to Les Crosets.