Located at 1,000m, just below Avoriaz, and set deep in the Dranse River Valley, Morzine ski resort is the largest of the 14 Savoyard resorts found in the popular region of French/Swiss Portes du Soleil.

Morzine enjoys an extensive history, which is evident from strolling through the town and taking in the beautiful old buildings and authentic atmosphere. Originally a market town, Morzine has plenty of shops selling traditional Savoyard wares such as pottery and handicrafts.

The town has a wide variety of accommodation, totalling approximately 17,000 beds. Choose from chalets, hotels, inns, guesthouses and self-catering options with prices to suit every budget. A fine selection of restaurants, bars and clubs make up Morzine’s nightlife.

Those wanting further workouts can try ice-skating, paragliding, bowling, ice-climbing, sleigh riding, curling, snowshoe walking, or just relax in the sauna. The local cheese dairy offers twice-weekly cheese-making sessions, and the town organizes regular folklore evenings.

Morzine’s slopes are mainly designed for beginners and intermediates, hence its popularity as a family skiing and snowboarding destination. However, both advanced and expert skiers needn’t feel left out, with 10 per cent of runs for these levels and a longest run of an impressive 11kms. There are 47kms of cross-country trails, along with a snowboard park.

The surrounding Portes du Soleil ski area is shared between two countries, has a combined 650kms in pistes of various ratings, and can be enjoyed by using a single ski pass. Snowboarders can head for the haven of Avoriaz, just above Morzine, if they wish to be challenged.

At Morzine, the winter season runs from December to April, with the cheapest times being the beginning and end of the season, when snowfall is less reliable. Geneva is the gateway to the region, while the most convenient train station is Cluses.