facing future THE
Times are changing here in Morzine, Avoriaz and Les Gets. Brexit, COVID-19 and climate change will take a considerable toll on the mountain tourism industry in the weeks, months and years to come. Charting the course of our industry has never been more important and in a valley that relies heavily on tourism, where do we turn to steady the ship? Life in each of our villages is organised and overseen by the Mairie (similar to a town hall in the UK), headed by an elected Mayor and a team of representatives. It’s their job to keep one eye on the present - the immediate needs of our villages - and another on the future. Each Mairie will publish regular updates, informing us of future initiatives during their mandate. Let’s use these communications to look towards the future. What’s planned for Morzine- Avoriaz (one commune, one Mayor!), Les Gets and Montriond in the years to come?
Focus on Summer The much-discussed pedestrianisation of the rue du Bourg in Morzine became a reality during summer 2021, at least for the key holiday weeks. This was in addition to the summerlong pedestrianisation of the square adjacent to the Office de Tourisme, which was closed to traffic between 2nd July and 6th September. Most agreed that the trial was wellreceived by holiday-makers, who enjoyed safer conditions for children and the extra activities and entertainment that were possible due to the road closure. It’s expected that these areas of the village will be periodically pedestrianised during Summer 2022. Recognising the importance of Lac de Montriond to their four seasons tourism initiative, the Mairie de Montriond have increased the depth of the smaller swimming lake by 80cm, improving its capacity to better cope with spring snow melt and any flooding that may result. A new liner was installed this autumn to improve the quality of the swimming area for tourists next summer. Mountain biking on unofficial trails across our valley becomes a contentious topic each summer. A consultation took place between the mayors of Morzine-Avoriaz, Les Gets, Montriond and private land owners to study the flow of bikes between the resorts. In the meantime, it was confirmed that the Ardent carpark will be open for camper vans next summer, while the Ardent lift is open (dates still to be confirmed).
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facing the future
Lac des Ecoles in Les Gets is a firm family favourite during the warmer months. Recognising this, the Mairie de Les Gets initiated a series of new developments over the last 12 months. The swimming lake itself has been enhanced to include better pathways, a new entrance pool for the slide and a fantastic new Splashpad facility, providing a fun water play zone for children. Focus on Tourists If you’ve ventured up the Col de Cou in winter or summer, you’ll know doubt know the Cabane, an old customs post which sits on the col. Straddling the three municipalities of Morzine-Avoriaz, Samoëns and Champéry in Switzerland, a new collaboration will bring to life a 35-bed refuge on this important spot in 2023. In order to guarantee snow coverage on the lower slopes of the Super Morzine at the end of each winter season, the Mairie de Morzine-Avoriaz has approved the development of a new reservoir by Avoriaz lift operator SERMA. The small lake will collect and conserve water for snow canons during the winter season. Focus on Families Adjacent to the football club in Montriond you’ll discover a brand new park and recreation area complete with outdoor gym equipment, a mini football pitch and basketball court.
// © j cutler photography
