Off Piste Skiing in Portes Du Soleil

Remember, exploring off-piste areas should be done with caution and respect for the mountain environment. Always check local weather and avalanche forecasts, ski with a partner (or even better, a certified guide), and ensure you have the necessary safety equipment, such as avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes. Safety should be your top priority when venturing into the backcountry.

When it comes to off-piste skiing in the Morzine and Avoriaz areas of Portes du Soleil, there are numerous fantastic options to explore. Here are some of the top areas renowned for off-piste skiing adventures:

The Swiss Bowl, located in the Avoriaz area of Portes du Soleil, is a vast and exhilarating off-piste skiing area that provides skiers with a memorable alpine experience, and is easily accessed from Avoriaz, a popular ski resort in the Portes du Soleil region. From the resort, you can take several lifts, including the Fornet and Choucas Ski Lifts, to reach the Swiss Bowl area. Situated on the border between France and Switzerland, this backcountry gem allows skiers to enjoy the best of both countries.

The Swiss Bowl is renowned for its vast open slopes, offering a wide range of skiing possibilities. From gentle rolling slopes to more challenging pitches, the terrain here is varied, making it suitable for skiers of different abilities. Often a powder haven, providing untouched powder to play on, the Swiss Bowl delivers.

One of the highlights of skiing in the Swiss Bowl is the breathtaking panoramic views. From the top of the bowl, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding alpine landscape. Towering peaks, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque valleys stretch out before you, creating a truly awe-inspiring backdrop for your backcountry adventure.

Pointe de Nyon, located above the town of Morzine in the Portes du Soleil region, is renowned for its off-piste skiing opportunities. 

Easily accessible from Morzine via the Nyon cable car, which takes skiers up to an elevation of approximately 2,000 metres. The terrain at Pointe de Nyon offers a diverse range of options for off-piste skiing. The mountain features wide-open bowls, natural gullies, and tree runs, providing ample opportunities to explore and find your preferred lines.

Combe de Nyon
One of the standout attractions of Pointe de Nyon is the renowned Combe de Nyon. This steep and challenging couloir offers a thrilling descent with its narrow, steep walls and demanding snow conditions, making it a favourite for advanced skiers. Skiing down Combe de Nyon requires expert skills and confidence in off-piste skiing.

From the summit of Pointe de Nyon, skiers can take in snow-capped peaks, picturesque valleys, and the charming town of Morzine nestled below. 

Hauts Forts, the highest peak in the Portes du Soleil region, located near Avoriaz. Known for its challenging and diverse terrain, the mountain features steep slopes, couloirs, and challenging off-piste lines. The most famous descent is the "Swiss Wall" or "Mur Suisse," an iconic mogul-filled run that tests even the most skilled skiers. It's important to note that the Swiss Wall is a demanding and technically challenging descent, recommended only for experienced skiers.

For powder enthusiasts, Hauts Forts is a true paradise. Thanks to its elevation and exposure to weather systems, the mountain receives significant snowfall throughout the winter season. On a clear day, you can see the stunning peaks of the French and Swiss Alps, including the iconic Mont Blanc. 

Hauts Forts is a pinnacle of off-piste skiing in the Portes du Soleil region offering an unforgettable backcountry experience for those looking to push their limits.

Col de Cou can be accessed via the Grandes Combes chairlift, which conveniently transports skiers to the starting point of their off-piste adventure. 

The terrain at Col de Cou offers a mix of open bowls, tree runs, and natural gullies, providing skiers with a variety of options to explore. From wide-open slopes that allow for fast and exhilarating descents to tree-lined runs that offer a sense of adventure and beauty, Col de Cou caters to skiers of different skill levels and preferences. It may not offer as severe terrain, but it is still remote and requires mountain knowledge and safety equipment, and ideally a professional guide. 

Mont Chéry is accessible via a gondola lift from Les Gets, the neighbouring town of Morzine (if skiing from Morzine to Les Gets, take the Pleney Telecabine and follow signs to Les Gets). The Mont Chery Gondola takes skiers up to the summit of Mont Chéry, where they can begin their off-piste adventure. 

Compared to the busier slopes of the main ski area, Mont Chéry offers a quieter and more tranquil atmosphere. This secluded setting allows skiers to enjoy a sense of solitude and escape from the crowds. The off-piste routes in Mont Chéry often have fewer skiers, providing a peaceful and serene skiing experience.

From the summit, you can easily see Mont Blanc towering above the French and Swiss Alps. 

It's crucial to approach any off-piste skiing with the necessary knowledge, skills, and safety precautions. Check local weather and avalanche forecasts, ski with a partner, and carry the appropriate safety equipment, such as avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes. If you're unsure about navigating the off-piste terrain.

Atlas Ski Co strongly advise consider hiring a certified ski guide who can provide expert guidance and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

We only recommend the best ski schools in Morzine. When picking who you want to lead you out into the back country, be honest about your ski ability and talk to several to see who you gel with.