It might not have crossed your mind that summer in Morzine can be just as stimulating as the winter. Yes, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with skiing the Portes du Soleil area in the winter and hiking it, along with a numerous number of other activities, in the summer. If you would like to escape the average summer we are having so far, to an idyllic mountainous haven with either a group of friends or equally your family, then Morzine is the place for you.
I feel it would only be right to start off with why most people, who are already in the know, venture to Morzine each summer. Enter stage left; my cousin Philippa, who has been lucky enough to have lived in Morzine for 3 years and now chooses to reside there every summer. I took the chance to fire a few questions her way, so let’s see if we can get some insider tips.
Why do you choose to Summer in Morzine every year?
Morzine is a little earthly paradise for me and my family. There is so much to do but it is also a very relaxing place to unwind and enjoy the fresh air. Little things that we take for granted in life become treasured moments in this wonderful pocket of France; the taste of a ripe tomato, a walk in the forest, the view of the mountains or a glass of wine on a balmy summer evening.
What is your ideal family day in Morzine?
My ideal family day in Morzine is a walk along the Dereche river, a picnic lunch in the park and an afternoon dip in the outdoor swimming pool. It is all within walking distance so there is no need to use the car. The route along the river to the pool is enchanting, with moss covered trees, ponies running free in the fields and the crystal clear river chasing itself downstream. My children feel the liberty of the great outdoors while I can soak up moments of tranquility.
What would you say is the number one must do activity for adults, which you must try before heading home?
This depends on whether you are an adrenaline junky or gourmet foodie. I always love to attend traditional events in town. So if you are heading to Morzine during one of the many festivals or celebrations be sure not to miss joining in the festivities. For adrenaline junkies a day out on a mountain bike is a must. For those who prefer more sedate luxuries try heading up to one of the restaurants, which border Lac Montriond, for a Savoyard feast.
Favourite restaurant?
There are so many to choose from but I’m a big fan of La Grange in the old town.
If you had to give one insider tip what would it be?
Part of Morzine’s charm is its local character. Take the time to learn some French and engage in conversation with the locals. Sticking to English will limit your experience, so be brave and see what new encounters you can make with a little French banter – see what happens, I dare you!
As we have heard, just being in the mountains soaking up those glorious long summer days is more than reason enough to make Morzine your next summer destination but if you need a little more of a nudge then please see a few more suggestions below.
Lac Montriond
There are many beautiful lakes situated around Morzine but I personally would recommend heading to the biggest and most popular, which is the stunning Lac Montriond. This lake is buzzing with activity in the summer and will keep everyone entertained for hours, offering pony rides, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and fishing to name but a few. You can even just keep it simple by enjoying a quick dip followed by a delicious picnic of local cheese, meats and a fresh French baguette.
Take the Luge or Zip Wire
The Luge is in the centre of town, accessed by the Pleney chair lift and is a must do toboggan ride for both kids and adults.
If you feel like that wasn’t enough adrenaline then afterwards head over to the Fantasticable, located at the top of the Chaux Fleurie lift, to feel like superman flying across the mountains of Avoriaz at up to 100km by zip wires.
Mountain Biking
Morzine and Les Gets offer world class mountain biking with lift access from mid June until September. Even beginners can feel perfectly safe having a go, as the pistes are graded just the same as for skiing with black being the most difficult, followed by red, blue and green. Just make sure you don’t do what my husband did and blindly follow your friends down a black run on your first attempt!
Paragliding & Hydrospeeding
So, you loved feeling like Superman at the Fantasticable but you want more. Well, why not give paragliding a go or as the French like to call it Parapenting. As long as you can run a few steps then pretty much anyone can give it a go. Before you know it you will be airborne and astounded by the magical views, whilst the instructor seamlessly manoeuvres you around the mountain for about 20 minutes. With many clubs in Morzine offering this once in a lifetime experience it is a must try.
If heights aren’t your thing and you thought you could only sledge in the winter then think again. If you want to feel at one with the water then hydrospeeding is the activity for you. Armed with a sledge/hydrospeed you will head off downstream with your instructor learning how to manoeuvre through the rapids and surf the waves.
Horse Riding
In and around Morzine is the perfect area to give horse riding a go as the horses are very well schooled and with many stables to choose from such as the Parc des Dereches, Lac Montriond and the Ranch in St Jean D’Aulps, you can’t go wrong. In keeping with the horse theme head over to the tourist information square to discover the delights of the old town, the old way, on a horse and cart.
Experience a Festival
There are many festivals that take place over the summer months in and around Morzine. Les Gets hosts the International Mechanical Music festival and The Lounge Music festival, while the classical LindArt music festival begins at the end of this week in Montriond. There is also the spectacular Feux du Lac at Lake Montriond on the first weekend of August, where you can take a picnic and watch some fabulous street performances before the spectacular firework display.
If any or all of the above has inspired you to give a last minute luxury summer holiday in Morzine a go, then please get in touch. Please see below a selection of our Luxury Summer Chalets to rent in Morzine. It’s not too late! Any of the team would be happy to take your call on +44 1202 203 650 or if you would rather then please email us and we will return your request immediately..
