Skiing & Snowboarding in the Portes du Soleil

SKI THE PORTES DU SOLEIL

INTERNATIONAL SKI DOMAIN

ALTITUDE: 1000-2260m

12 ski resorts – 1 ski pass

With 12 ski resorts spanning two countries, the Portes du Soleil has an unrivalled reputation as one of the best ski areas in the world. Skiers can explore more than 600km of ski runs, including 14 valleys, 10 terrain parks, and 201 ski lifts. One lift pass covers the whole domain across France and Switzerland, making the Portes du Soleil a unique ski destination.

Located in the Haute Savoie region, in the northern French Alps, it is a convenient drive as the closest French skiing to Northern Europe and just 90 minutes from Geneva.

12 SKI STATIONS

2 COUNTRIES

286 PISTES

122 BLUE

100 RED

32 BLACK

A chair lift over a walking trail in chatel in winter

let it snow!

SNOW RECORD

Altitude is often thought to be the most important factor when deciding where to ski but this is not always true! The Portes du Soleil is home to resorts that are relatively low-lying, but they still have some of the most favourable skiing conditions around.

Snow is all about geography. Sandwiched between Lake Geneva and the majestic Mont Blanc, Portes du Soleil is in the perfect geographic position to create more snow. The area is often home to more snow than many high-altitude resorts thanks to the microclimate and atmospheric conditions.

Skiers can enjoy the beauty of treelined skiing due to the lower altitude of Portes du Soleil. The average season snow fall is about seven meters, and with the base of the piste being pasture, not rock, skiing is possible early in the season when there is less snow. There is also less chance of lift closure due to high wind.

CATERED SKI HOLIDAYS

If you enjoy skiing, a trip to Portes du Soleil is a must. Not only can you ski across 12 resorts in two countries on just one pass, you can also take in the incredible surroundings of the French Alps.

SEE WHATS INCLUDED

Snow Sports in the Portes du Soleil

Enjoy All the French Alps have to Offer

Skier in a red jacket skiing on a mountain

Downhill on the piste

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

Portes du Soleil is a top skiing destination with a vast number of groomed pistes of varied terrain. Ski lift links are fast and seamless, making the most of your time in the alps. There are facilities for all abilities, including beginner to the most daring skiers. Enjoy the gentle, tree-lined pistes or take a turn on the steep challenging black slopes.

All the while, you are surrounded by the Narnia-like landscapes and stunning views of the Dents du Midi, Mont Blanc, and Lake Geneva. Local guides are available to help you explore the expansive areas off-piste and get a taste of all Portes du Soleil has to offer.

A snowboarder on a rail in the stash at Avoriaz, portes du soleil

FREESTYLE

SNOWPARKS & BORDERCROSS

Portes du Soleil is home to world-class freestyle ski areas. You can choose from 11 snowparks and four bordercross, all conveniently located. There are plenty of opportunities for air, including boxes, rails, tables, and more. Don’t forget the famous Stash in Avoriaz, known for its all-wood construction running through the Linderet Forest. Whether you prefer a more tame experience, or you’re a freestyle pro, you can find it in the Portes du Soleil.

PISTE MAPS

WEB CAMS

NON SKIERS

The cookie cafe at the top of mossettes in the portes du soleil ski domain in winter

THE PERFECT BREAK TO YOUR DAY

MOUNTAIN RESTAURANTS

A perfect day on the pistes includes well-timed breaks with delicious food to provide plenty of fuel for the fun ahead. Mountain restaurants in the Portes du Soleil are plentiful, so you can always find something to eat or drink when you want it. Of course many of the restaurants serve traditional Savoyard style cuisine but there is a surprising amount of variety, even up at 2000m!

Our list of favourite mountain restaurants seems to get longer and longer each year. Whether you are skiing to eat or eating to ski, we love recommending our favourite lunch spots. Plan the perfect break for your ski day and enjoy a delicious meal in the French Alps.

why we...

♥ CHÂTEL

Châtel is in the perfect location to reach every corner of the Portes du Soleil. You can make the most of your ski pass by covering new and unique ski trails instead of backtracking over the same spots.

Chalet Cannelle is between 5-12 minutes drive from four ski lifts, which means you can start in a different place each day! Your options are open for ski touring on the quiet side of the Portes du Soleil as well, starting in La Chapelle D’Abondance, crossing into Switzerland, and finishing in Châtel. Ski up to 40km of piste without ever using the same lift twice.

Châtel is a snow-sure resort with extensive snow making for optimal skiing conditions. Skiiers also have the added benefit of many north-facing slopes where the snow pack on the piste lasts longer. Ski season in Châtel lasts until the third weekend of April!