A sprawling alpine region spanning the French and Swiss Alps, the Portes du Soleil area connects 12 mountain resorts south of Lake Geneva. One of the largest ski areas in the world, the patchwork of charming mountain villages spread across the region offers an unprecedented array of accommodations and an eclectic alpine atmosphere; holidaymakers will have no trouble finding the perfect place to set up camp.
The towering heights of Avoriaz may be the location of choice, a place where modernistic alpine architecture stands tall and the ski terrain satisfies all levels and abilities. Perhaps Morzine would be the preferred destination to reside. It's a well-connected hub that offers an authentic mountain experience and has excellent access to all the action in the Portes du Soleil. Champéry, on the Swiss side, could be just what the doctor ordered if the alpine agenda is geared to wellness and relaxation, rather than sports.
Below, a superb selection of handpicked chalets in the Portes du Soleil showcases the unrivalled array of alpine accommodations in this region. From the sleek and contemporary to the traditional timber gems, the chalets are as varied as they are stunning.
Chalet Beauceron
Morzine
Sleeps 14
Self catered (* a fully catered service is also available)
Accommodation
A large, luxurious chalet with panoramic mountain views. The alpine property sleeps 14 guests in 5 bedrooms (3 doubles & 2 doubles with additional bunk beds). An expansive outdoor terrace of dreams is the perfect place for alfresco dining with friends, and the barrel-style hot tub is the pièce de résistance for post-slope recovery.
The unforgettable Chalet Beauceron is grand but homely. Timber headboards bring rustic charm to contemporary bedrooms and traditional alpine materials with modern finishes flow seamlessly throughout. An open-plan living space, double-sided log burner, and in-house ski room are just a few features to rave about.
Chalet Cipolin
La Côte d'Arbroz
Sleeps 6
Self catered
Accommodation
A beautifully decorated chalet, perfectly sized for private families or small friend groups. 6 guests can stay comfortably in 3 charming bedrooms. Though smaller than most group chalets, Chalet Cipolin doesn't offer any less when it comes to luxury facilities. A private jacuzzi pool sits on the terrace in front of breathtaking mountain views, a swim spa experience that is welcomed after an active day in the Alps.
The interior design highlights the great attention to detail used to create a unique and welcoming alpine space. The charming swing chairs on the balcony are the perfect place to unwind and watch the world go by. The sofas around the fireplace invite guests to gather for an evening apéro, and the bedroom wallpapers bring a pleasant vibrancy and character to the wooden-clad chalet.
Chalet Grand Duc
Montriond
Sleeps 12
Self catered
Accommodation
Alpine grandeur can be found at Chalet Grand Duc. The family-friendly ski chalet has an enviable interior space where large sumptuous furnishings fill a lofty wooden-clad haven. Groups of 12 sleep in 4 double bedrooms and 1 bunk room, and have access to the outstanding facilities available at the mountain home.
A cinema screen, large fireplace, and ski boot room are great additions to the interior, but in the summer the outdoor space comes into its own. A large sweeping outdoor sofa area sits around a firepit, a dreamy location for marshmallow toasting and nighttime stargazing. A green egg barbecue stands proudly on the terrace, which can be manned while fellow guests enjoy the hot tub and Pétanque. Grand Duc is, without doubt, one of the best chalets in Portes du Soleil to visit all year round.
The Landscape Lodge
Abondance
Sleeps 9
Self catered
Accommodation
The epitome of rustic chic, The Landscape Lodge brings alpine farmhouse living into an ultimate stylish realm. Carefully curated furnishings fill the chalet space and enhance the traditional architectural charm. Design and comfort coexist perfectly here. Guests can enjoy a peaceful sleep in one of the 4 bedrooms, all decorated harmoniously with natural materials, neutral colour schemes, and dried flower arrangements.
Blending seamlessly into its surroundings, The Landscape Lodge is a mountain refuge for those looking to relax and unwind. The location within the Portes du Soleil region is a peaceful oasis away from the action, but local amenities are just a short car ride away. Fire up the outdoor bathtub and soak up the mountain views to truly settle in for a restorative stay in the Alps.
Chalet Bahia
Les Gets
Sleeps 5
Self catered
Accommodation
Another small, but perfectly formed chalet that is sometimes hard to come across, Chalet Bahia is a modern space for smaller groups and families looking to spend some quality time in the Alps. 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms are tastefully decorated in a sleek and paired back style, with classic wooden features running throughout.
Large panoramic sliding windows create a light-filled interior that connects the space with the surrounding natural beauty. Located on the outskirts of Les Gets, a ski resort renowned for its welcoming family-friendly feel. Visiting this area of the Portes du Soleil is ideal for those looking to have an active holiday amongst the summits during the day, and a quiet cabin to retreat to in the evening.
Chalet Lula
Châtel
Sleeps 8
Self catered
Accommodation
Châtel sits close to the Swiss border and is a brilliant hub for skiing and mountain biking in the Alps. Chalet Lula is a modern alpine retreat located just 500 metres away from the Super Châtel lift and the centre of the mountain resort. Families will enjoy the range of activities on offer here; cinemas, bowling and an ice skating rink will keep the kids happy.
The chalet also has plenty of entertainment for younger guests; the games room is full of books, board games, and an Xbox. A sauna for adults will help the muscles recover before a relaxed evening around the dining table enjoying some local cuisine. 4 comfortable king-sized beds await weary heads after a memorable day in the Alps.
Visiting the Portes du Soleil
The Portes du Soleil area is well worth visiting any time of year; its proximity to Geneva airport means transfer times to mountain resorts are roughly an hour, depending on your choice of transport. Visiting the Portes du Soleil without a car is also very feasible; public transport connections are readily available to whisk you away along mountain roads to your chosen destination.
Top Activities in the Portes du Soleil
Holidaymakers are spoilt for choice when booking a trip to the Portes du Soleil; the alpine adventures are endless. Avid skiers can tick off the 'Swiss Wall' if they wish; an impressive slope that is long and steep, often filled with moguls and takes skiers between Switzerland and France.
The après ski scene is also vibrant in this alpine region during winter months. One of the infamous Folie Douce bars can be found in Avoriaz, an atmosphere renowned for table dancing and ski boot stomping. Summer activity itineraries can be filled with alpine lake swimming, trail hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, horse riding, and more.
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