Bar a couple of work snow trips, where the focus was more on the ‘social’ aspects than the details of snowboarding technique, I hadn’t gone near a ski slope since the age of 9. However now that I live a short flight from so many amazing ski resorts, including one where a good friend was working the season, it was a no-brainer that it was time for me to get back into the snow. Kate, Ben, Sarah-Rose and I headed to Morzine in France for five days of beautiful spring-like conditions and a whole lot of fun!
First proper sight of the mountains on the drive from Geneva to Morzine
First order of business – pizza and beer in the sun
Morzine is a gorgeous little town located in the massive Portes de Soleil, a huge area of ski resorts. It has slopes all around, including two where the lifts start in the heart of the town, loads of chalets, and all the facilities you’d expect from a ski resort. As it was my first time holidaying in this type of town I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I loved the mix of great bars and restaurants and the super-accessible slopes – it was so different to spending half an hour plus just in driving up to the bottom of the slope like you might in New Zealand.
But undoubtedly the thing that blew my mind the most was the sheer scale of the area. Kate and Sarah-Rose went skiing on a route known as the Circuit, which goes through most of the ski areas near to Morzine. It took them almost seven hours across a huge amount of runs, and they even skied into Switzerland for lunch! As a beginner, I spent a lot more of my time in the slopes close to the town, but still had an awesome time.
As I mentioned, I’m a beginner snowboarder. I would love to be better but for now, my snow experience involves a lot of slow turns and falling. Despite this, I had an amazing time in Morzine – it’s hard not to love life with views like this, even if you’ve just bailed for the millionth time! I started off with a lesson to remind me of the basics, and then spent some time on the baby slope before graduating to one with an actual chairlift. I loved every minute, and can’t wait to go back next year!
Nothing beats a magic carpet selfie 😛 At least for a beginner!
Sweet lunch spot
It’s a hard life on a ski holiday…
Our awesome snow crew
Keep an eye out for more snow posts as I explore Avoriaz on the other side of Morzine and go para-ponting!
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