Avoriaz, a ski resort in the French Alps, is renowned for its incredible ski area and well-maintained pistes. However, for thrill-seekers and wilderness skiers, Avoriaz also offers a number of breathtaking off-piste itineraries. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the most beautiful off-piste skiing routes in Avoriaz, where you can enjoy unforgettable experiences in the heart of nature with Bureau des Guides Morzine-Avoriaz !
secteur Fornet
The Fornet sector has 2 “snowcross” zones, secure freeride zones suitable for almost all levels! The two very playful freeride zones offer ideal terrain for making beautiful turns in the powder, while sending jumps off rocky bars, or even terrain suitable for upside down! It’s also the spot selected for the Red Bull Infinite Lines!
SNOWCROSS DES CROZATS
A beautiful, very wide wall, near the arrival of the Grande Combes chairlift, it offers the secure Freeride sector with the longest difference in altitude because it can extend almost to the foot of the Prodains cable car! The width allows you to pull far to the bottom to always scrape a few more virgin turns. It’s not the most playful area for practicing backcountry freestyle, but it still offers some nice volumes and a few small jump bars. Warning: if it is closed, it is not secure! This steep slope is beautiful but can be dangerous.
LA COMBETTE
A small forest area with many possibilities, the edges of the Combette black slope are home to “pillows” and numerous “pockets” of virgin snow, which sometimes take on the appearance of mini-Japan: enough to jump from pillow to pillow and to do the same area 10 times without ever passing the same place! By going up by the Grande Combe chairlift, you will avoid the crowds and benefit from faster access than the long ride to the bottom of the Prodains cable car. But don’t talk too much about it to others!
VALLÉE DE LA MANCHE
The “Nature” version of Freeride in Avoriaz, but go with a guide! Departing from Le Fornet, this wild off-piste is as beautiful as it is playful! Located on a slope devoid of marked trails and chairlifts, you will quickly have the impression of being isolated from the rest of the world: natural jumps, small bars, beautiful slopes, all on a long drop, you will arrive at the very end of this freeride at Erigné, where you can pick up a shuttle, which will then take you back to Morzine for a return by cable car to Avoriaz.
Les mines d’or
Les Mines d’Or is an ideal off-piste route for intermediate and advanced skiers. Accessible from the top of the Avoriaz slopes, this descent takes you through magnificent landscapes, forests and clearings. You’ll also be able to enjoy some great stretches of untouched powder. Make sure you know the route well and have the appropriate safety equipment.
Le Pas de Chavanette
Known as “The Swiss Wall”, the Pas de Chavanette is a legendary off-piste route for experienced skiers looking for a thrill. This steep and technical descent, accessible from the Portes du Soleil, is renowned for its steep slopes and rugged terrain. A good command of skiing is required to tackle this challenge, and it is recommended that you are accompanied by a professional guide.
Off-piste skiing, safe!
Avoriaz offers an incredible playground for off-piste skiers. The varied itineraries and breathtaking scenery promise to make your day. It’s important to note that off-piste skiing is risky and requires a good command of skiing as well as compliance with safety instructions. It is advisable to be accompanied by an experienced guide and to be equipped with the appropriate safety equipment, such as an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe.
Make the most of these magnificent off-piste skiing spots in Avoriaz by following the safety rules and letting yourself be carried away by the adrenalin of the mountains. Happy skiing! Discover our winter activities!