Off-Piste Skiing in Morzine

Skiing off-piste is a fantastic experience, especially when you do so in a place as beautiful as Morzine. Many advanced skiers come here with the express purpose to get off the pistes, away from the crowds - and there are plenty of areas to choose from.

The thrill of skiing well off the beaten track is one that is hard to resist for many, and if your level is good enough you may want to book in to one of the many great chalets in Morzine for your next winter break. However, if you do head off-piste, make sure you are well-prepared.

Know every aspect of heading off-piste

One of the points to bear in mind when going off the regular runs is that you will be further away from assistance if you should need it. It is for this reason that only experienced skiers should try it, and to be safe, never ski on their own.

Another risk is presented by the presence of rocks, which may be hidden under the snow when it is fresh. If you book your holiday in the chalets in Morzine at the beginning of the season, the risk of this could be greater – so be alert at all times and your route before you set out.

Avalanches can and do happen – and often without warning. Check with authorities before heading out and avoid off-pistes excursions if the risk is high.

Top tips to avoid problems

Having said all that, here are plenty of precautions you can take to avoid problems – and they bear repeating. Firstly, check the weather before you head out and make sure that the risk of avalanches is low. (Ask in the resort for their advice because they will know better than anyone.) Always go skiing with others when you go off-piste - never go alone. Even better, go with a guide who has a lot of experience in the area around the chalets in Morzine - they will know the risks better than anyone. Also make sure you take along the correct equipment. This will include a shovel, radio, probe, first-aid kit and anything else you think you may need to help you out if you face difficulties.

Where to go off-piste in the region

There are many places where you can go off-piste in this wonderful area. The fields that are located above Ardent are a great place to head, with some gentle slopes available here; you could also go to Pointe de Nyon or the face that is above Vallee de la Manche. In fact, there are many places that you can go exploring, around this area and the Portes du Soleil, so ask around and find out from the local guides where they recommend.

Have fun and stay safe

There is no point taking unnecessary risks when you go skiing. It is supposed to be fun, and off-piste skiing is a real thrill, but never take risks with your safety. By all means, for those experts booking in to one of the chalets in Morzine, head out and get your adrenaline fix, but know the risks and prepare well for them to ensure your holiday is nothing but fun!

Liz Olkowicz is the Business Development Manager for Ski and Summer Morzine, a tour operator, based in Surrey, offering tailor-made holidays in chalets in Morzine. Morzine is the perfect location from which to explore the French Alps, so for a great-value Alpine holiday, call us.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.