You want to leave the safety of the marked trails and head off-piste? You’re in the right place because Avoriaz is full of unexpected spots. Discover in this other article 5 great locations for freeride/backcountry skiing or snowboarding in Avoriaz.
The Must-See Slopes in Avoriaz
Set off to discover the must-see trails in the Avoriaz ski area !
Discover
Hit the slopes and ski the iconic runs of Avoriaz!
Ski area
Avoriaz 1800 is located at the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area, one of the largest cross-border ski areas in the world, connecting 12 resorts between France and Switzerland.
Ski area
Avoriaz
Avoriaz is located at the heart of the Portes du Soleil. Its central position makes it the ideal starting point to explore this vast ski area that connects 12 resorts between France and Switzerland. Fully pedestrianized, with ski slopes serving as pathways, it is the perfect resort for all snow lovers and sliding enthusiasts.
Avoriaz by the numbers: 35 ski lifts, 53 slopes, 4 snowparks, and 4 snowcross (secure but ungroomed slopes).
Among these many slopes, some are iconic and dream destinations for many skiers! Let us introduce you to the must-ride trails when you stay in Avoriaz!
The Swiss wall
The dream challenge for expert skiers!
What better way to test your skiing or snowboarding skills than tackling the « Mur Suisse » (Swiss Wall)? This famous slope lies on the border between France (Avoriaz) and Switzerland (Chapéry-Les Crozets). It’s known as one of the steepest and most difficult ski runs in the world. With an average slope of 37° and up to 76% incline, certain sections of the run can reach up to 90%! Stretching over 1 km, it features moguls that can reach heights of up to 2 meters. Be warned, your thighs will definitely feel the burn! Many skiers have turned back at the top of this dizzying descent. Do you have the courage to take on this wall?
The World Cup Slope
A historic slope!
This red run, named the “World Cup” in homage to the sporting events that took place here, is one of the must-do trails in Avoriaz. Nestled at the top of a ridge, it offers a beautiful panorama of neighboring peaks and Lake Geneva.
Created in 1974, this slope was designed to position Avoriaz on the international competition stage, hosting a World Cup of alpine skiing. It continued to host competitions until 1986, including the flagship event, the « downhill, » a discipline that once brought fame to a local skier: Jean Vuarnet.
L'Abricotine
The most beautiful stroll in Avoriaz!
To tell you about this slope, let’s take a little trip down memory lane:
« Once upon a time, a group of friends gathered in Switzerland. It was customary for French visitors to leave with a small gift. So, our friends returned with bottles of Abricotine, a liquor from the Valais region. Perhaps they weren’t skiing too steadily? One fall was enough, and the bottles shattered! The liquor spread, soaking the snow with its distinctive scent! When it came time to name the slope, the decision was quick: Abricotine was born. »
Start at the Pointe des Mossettes and make your way down to the Lindarets village. Navigate through a valley with breathtaking scenery. The Abricotine is a slope accessible to all skill levels. It’s also the longest descent in Avoriaz!
The Stash
The eco-friendly snowpark!
A unique concept of an eco-friendly snowpark, the Stash is directly imported from the Californian resort of North Star. Jake Burton, the founder of Burton Snowboard, is behind this concept that reinvents the practice of snowboarding. The Stash offers a true connection with nature, providing a space where both FREERIDE and FREESTYLE can be practiced safely.
Located at the heart of a vast, ungroomed area of fresh snow, it allows for wide turns in powder. The trails wind through the great Lindarets forest and are dotted with wooden modules and sculptures that can be discovered along the « secret passages. »
The Stash offers several routes ranging from « Intermediate » to « Expert » level, as well as a « Snake run » (a boardercross with tightly curved, raised turns). Halfway through, a cabin provides a perfect spot for a break and is the ideal place for a picnic.
