Morzine is part of the Portes du Soleil ski area and is a close neighbour to Avoriaz. Although it is quite low it seems to do alright for snow as it is part of the Mont Blanc weather system which seems to suck the snow out of any fronts which pass over the French Alps. During my most recent stay in Morzine I stayed at the Le Tremplin hotel which had skiing to the door and excellent food.

The layout of the slopes doesn't really lend itself to beginners as there just aren't many options, especially close to the village. I would say that this place is more of an intermediate or an advanced playground. On the plus side, queues don't seem to be a problem at Morzine.

Intermediates will enjoy a brilliant selection of reds and blues and there is some excellent introductory tree skiing to be found. Most of the pistes are excellently maintained, but there are also a healthy number which seem to breed moguls. No bad thing if you enjoy moguls! Pointe d' Angolon is the highest peak of Morzine and the lifts take you close to its summit. From here there are some excellent red runs, but they are definitely on the steeper side.

Experts may notice that there are a lack of black runs, but there is no shortage of steep and interesting terrain. You don't need to be super harcore to spot the lines either as plenty of off-piste areas are quickly tracked by the locals following snowfall.

There is a good learner terrain park at the top of the Super Morzine Gondola which has some well built yet mellow jumps and rails to practice on. Those seeking more air time will have to head to the Snowpark d'Arare which is located towards the top of Avoriaz. Fret not though as there are so many natural windlips, dropoffs and cat-tracks to launch off that you don't really need man-made features to get your thrills.

The Buddha Bar was my favourite watering hole and had a rather bizarre yet soothing vibe to it. The rest of the town was good fun, and as quiet or mental as could be wished for- you get back exactly what you put in. I suspect that there is a good core of skiers/snowboarders living here which would probably make it a good place to do a season. I think Morzine is good, but not my favourite Alpine experience- It deserves to be loved by someone though.