Alternative activities in Morzine, France
Home to exciting activities and old-world charm, the village of Morzine can be found in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area at 1,000 metres altitude. With more than 100 cm of snow depth on the mountains, and more snow forecast within the next week, skiers and snowboarders are set to enjoy 600 km of pistes across Morzine and the Portes du Soleil.
However, there are also many incredible activities in resort that don’t require skis or snowboards, such as walking with eagles, relaxing at a new spa, snowshoeing to a glass bubble for lunch, exploring a network of caves, and watching a thrilling ice hockey match – “Go Penguins!”.
Walk with eagles in Morzine, France
From the bottom of the rue du bourg at the Mairie (town hall) set off along the river that sits in the valley in Morzine. Follow the Dranse riverbank towards Nyon on the Renard route; a beautiful walk along the flowing river lined with snow-covered trees. When reaching the Nyon Cable Car, board a gondola and travel up the mountain to the Pointe de Nyon. Here, at an altitude of 1,500 metres, at the Pointe de Nyon restaurant, Jacques-Olivier Travers has founded Les Aigles du Léman – a full aviary of fascinating birds of prey, from the gigantic condor to the snowy owl, to offer visitors a unique encounter while raising awareness of conservation. The highly knowledgeable falconers will teach visitors about these incredible birds, letting willing participants hold birds of prey on their arm, fly and feed the birds, and walk down a snowy track with eagles flying overhead. Fletcher, a white-tailed eagle, is a regular on the mountains and is the figurehead for re-wilding its breed. Last summer, Jacques-Olivier Travers and his team released four white-tailed eagles – that had been bred in captivity – into the wild. With those four still going strong, the team plan to release 10 more this year. The eagle experience is priced from €75 / £66 pp. Alternatively, four flying shows are offered to all visitors free of charge every day.
Sit back and relax in the new spa at Hotel Neige & Roc
The snow-capped mountains offer peace and quiet unlike anywhere else; there is no better place to focus on health and wellness. Found between Morzine and Avoriaz, the plush and stylish four-star Hotel Neige & Roc opened a brand-new spa this winter, which is available to guests and non-guests. The spa, located in the heart of the hotel’s sprawling garden, is a little slice of paradise with a well-being space, spa, sauna, beauty treatments, relaxation room and outdoor Swedish bath. The spa offers a range of bespoke treatments and quality products; expect organic and natural ingredients. Day prices cost from €95 / £83 pp. Guests staying at the hotel can choose from 30 elegant rooms and make the most of an indoor and outdoor pool, a bubbling hot tub, and delicious cuisine.
Snowshoe to a glass bubble for a traditional Savoyard lunch
Snowshoeing is a magical way to explore the winter wonderland of Morzine and the breath-taking landscapes and scenery it has to offer. Morzine has many amazing snowshoeing routes, including one that includes a perfect lunch break at the end. Leave the centre of Morzine behind, and head south down Route de la Manche (by free bus or car). Jump off at the last stop, strap on snowshoes, and start walking. Dive into the quiet wilderness alongside the flowing river before heading up the marked paths, taking the time to admire the spectacular vistas on route. Follow the signposts to Bulles des Mines d’Or, and after an exhilarating morning, stop off for a delicious and traditional Savoyard lunch in a see-through bubble, prepared with local ingredients. The pierrade (hot stone) is highly recommended, and a wonderful way of keeping the bubble warm while tucking in.
Go caving and discover an underground world
Combining scientific, sporting, and environmental aspects, caving is an exciting way to explore the unworldly mountain caves and their intricate tunnel systems that have been naturally formed by the rock over time. Discover the wonders of this silent and mysterious world with outdoor specialists, Evolution2. Here, a state-certified instructor will guide participants through rock formations in a fun and secure way. Descend into the underground caves and explore the misty caverns hidden beneath Morzine’s mountains. A half day caving experience with Evolution2 is priced from €55 / £49 pp (minimum age 7).
Watch a hockey match at the indoor ice rink
Cheer on the Morzine Penguins as they face a series of opponents at the Morzine indoor ice rink. The Morzine Penguins play in division 1 and are regularly competing in championship matches throughout the winter season. Players normally take to the ice from 8 pm, with spectators advised to arrive at the rink 45 minutes before kick-off to nab the best seats and avoid missing the action. The matches are made up of three periods and last 20 minutes each, with intervals between each. There is a bar at the rink, ideal for grabbing a quick drink or snack during the breaks. This is a great evening out for the whole family or a group of friends. Tickets are priced from €12 / £11 for adults and €7 / £6 for children.
