Summer
Warm, blazing sunlight, lush green valleys and the cool refreshing waters of Lac de Montriond are what summer is all about.
For the thrill seekers and the sun worshipers – white water rafting, downhill mountain biking, via ferrata, parapenting. The adventures at your fingertips are endless.
With much of the expansive lift system of the Portes du Soleil open to pedestrians, it’s also the perfect place for those of us who have got better things to do than climb a mountain.
Or you could just enjoy the incredible views from the terrace of Hotel du Lac. Table service, cool drinks and welcome shade from the hot summer sun.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
It really doesn’t get much better than the Portes du Soliel for mountain biking. Whether it’s high adrenaline downhill, awesome bike parks, epic enduro runs, cross country or e-bike adventures, Morzine and the Portes du Soleil has something for everyone.
12 stations interlinking France and Switzerland
5 world renowned bike parks
19 lifts to access the trails
600 km of trails
350km of marked trails specifically for e-bikes with charge points
You can pre-order your lift pass with us and pick it up when you check in, so you can hit the trails as soon as you arrive without having to wait at the ticket office.
Portes du Soleil Summer Lift Pass – prices
Startline MTB is our preferred bike shop in les Portes du Soleil. You can rent all types of bikes on a daily basis.
Protective equipment is also available to hire.
You can book bike hire online www.startlinemtb.com or just visit the shop at Les Dents Blanches, 669 Rte de la Plagne.
Hotel du Lac customers receive a 10% discount on bike rentals. Just ask us for your discount code when you make your reservation or upon arrival.
Explore the mountains by e-bike and discover the beauty of Avoriaz and the surrounding valleys. Whether you’re enjoying a scenic ride around Lake Montriond or heading higher into the mountains, an e-bike lets you explore more of the area with ease. We’re happy to recommend trusted local rental shops and share some of our favourite routes to help you make the most of your adventure.
SWIMMING
Whether you’re training for a triathlon, or just fancy a dip on a hot summer’s day, Lac Montriond is refreshing and guaranteed to make your swim just that little bit more exciting. Keep an eye out for the marked swimming area on the hotel side of the Lac.
Alternatively, visit the Morzine aquatic centre on the Parc des Dérêches, a supervised 50 metre outdoor and 25 metre indoor pool. There is also a fun slide, a field to relax and sunbathe, a volleyball area, and a great little cafe where you can grab a cold drink or ice cream.
STAND UP PADDLE
When it comes to epic locations for stand up paddle boarding, it really doesn’t get much better than Lac de Montriond.
Take it at your own pace, whilst getting a full body workout. You can either hire your SUP at the Lac activity centre or bring your own.
Why not try some SUP yoga whilst you’re here? The ultimate test of your core strength and stability.
KAYAK
Experience Lac Montriond from a different angle. Take in the awe-inspiring views of Roc D’Enfer, Nantaux and the stunning cliff faces that surround Le Lac.
The still waters of Le Lac make for a relaxed and easy going kayak trip.
Hire the kayaks from just outside the hotel and the Lac activity centre.
HIKING
For hiking enthusiasts or those looking to try it for the first time, the surrounding area offers countless possibilities. From beginners who prefer a short and easy walk to experienced hikers seeking to reach the highest peaks, there is something for everyone. Discover the beauty of our forests, hidden waterfalls, and admire breathtaking views of the mountain ranges overlooking our valleys.
The Portes du Soleil Multi Pass gives you access to the chairlifts open to all, allowing you to explore each summit with ease! This pass is offered complimentary with your stay.
Grab a map and explore the trails at your own pace (simply follow the many signposts), or book an excursion with our favourite guide, Simone Simpson @magicalsnowstrek.
Below are the names of two of our favourite hikes, accessible directly from our hotel:
Lac de Montriond – Cascade de l’Ardent
Difficulty level: 3/10
Perfect for a family mountain walk and a great alternative to more challenging hikes.
Lac de Montriond – Lac, Col et Roc de Tavaneuse
Difficulty level: 8/10
A more demanding uphill trail leading to a wild and unspoilt setting, with stunning views towards the Mont Blanc massif.
PARAGLIDING
Take to the skies with a flight over the breathtaking peaks of the Portes du Soleil, with panoramic vistas stretching from Lac Leman over to the magnificent Mont Blanc.
Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery. A surprisingly peaceful experience, with the option to add in some aerial spins on the way down to get the blood pumping.
There are many companies to choose from who will take you on a tandem flight or, alternatively, take the time to learn to fly on your own. Please visit reception for more information.
CLIMBING AND VIA FERRATA
There are numerous climbing and via ferrata routes in the Morzine area for all levels. One of our favourites is spending a long sunny evening at the Elephants Head climbing spot in St Jean D’Aulps (a short drive from Morzine).
BOOK WITH FROGS RAFTING – https://www.frogsrafting.com/en/
WHITE WATER RAFTING
Take a guided white water rafting trip with Frogs Rafting down the incredibly impressive gorge of the River Dranse below Morzine. Navigate your way through rapids, waterfalls and some mega cliff jumps! Trips for every ability and level of adrenaline.
From €40 per person
All equipment and guiding/tuition included
Trips last 2-2.5 hours
Up to 8 people in a raft
Must be able to swim 25 metres
Bring a bathing suit/trunks and towel
