Morzine Unveils Covid-19 Plans for Next Winter
24th September 2020
Last modified on May 14th, 2021
The French resort is the latest to reveal its policies and comes after a busy summer season with measures taken and lessons learnt. So, what will next winter look like?
“This winter, more than ever we’ll want to experience the joys of skiing, of freedom and nature, but we will want to feel safe while we do so,” said the resort.
“We’re taking safety seriously and are busy working on what is needed to ensure you can relax and enjoy time in Morzine.”
“Strict hygiene measures will be in place, activities will be specially adapted, but the same fresh open spaces will be available to enjoy in safety.”
The Morzine hoteliers have grouped together to agree on offering a refund or credit note if holidays need to be cancelled due to Covid-19.
There is also cancellation insurance available on the Portes du Soleil ski pass.
At the time of writing a mask needs to be worn in the village centre at all times, and people will need to follow these rules if they remain in force for the winter.
The Lift System
The Portes du Soleil ski area totals 600km and is partially open from the 11th of December.
It opens fully from the 18th December
New procedures were put into place across the Portes du Soleil this summer to ensure safety.
The lift companies implemented all health and safety measures specified by the government.
The national operating body for ski areas will announce national guidelines later this autumn, but it is expected there will be similar measures for winter.
Currently the Portes du Soleil lift operators are not planning to reduce numbers on the lifts and will keep 100% of capacity this winter.
Current planned safety measures on the Morzine-Les Gets ski area are as follows:
- Wearing a mask is compulsory in the waiting areas, at boarding and on the ski lifts.
- No limitation on the number of visitors to the ski area has been set to date.
- People are encouraged to buy online to beat the queues and avoid contact with people.
- Observe social distancing when queuing (ground markings will be in place).
- Hand sanitizer will be available at checkouts and at the entrance to ski lifts.
Ski Schools
There is currently no planned limit on the number of skiers in group lessons, but masks need to be work at the beginning of the lesson by everyone over the age of 11.
In the booking offices and all interior spaces, mask wearing is obligatory, hand gel is available and all surfaces are regularly disinfected.
All material used is also disinfected between each use.
Ski Hire
You will need to wear a mask in the shops, and hand gel is available.
All material is disinfected between each rental.
Restaurants & bars
Mask wearing is compulsory when not seated at a table, and seating has been arranged to ensure distancing of at least 1 meter between different groups.
Hand sanitizer is available, and frequent cleaning and disinfection is carried out.
Accommodation & Booking
Morzine has a wide range of independent accommodation providers that are working together to agree specific cancellation conditions concerning the sanitary situation.
If Morzine and Avoriaz are both closed or transport from your home country is impossible due to Covid-19, you will be refunded in full.
Morzine Reservation
Mask wearing is currently obligatory in common areas of all accommodations.
All areas are regularly disinfected, and hand gel is available.
Reinforced cleaning and disinfection protocols using appropriate equipment are in place, along with social distancing measures in any common spaces.
Travelling to resort
All minibus and taxi services are enforcing mask wearing during the journey and asking clients to use the provided hand sanitizer before entering the vehicle.
Free bus services
The buses will be operational but with special safety measures in place to ensure everyone’s safety.
Events
The following events remain currently planned for the season:
– Micros d’Or, 15-17th December
– Morzine Enchanted Village, 19th December to 2nd January
– Ladies Night, 16th February
– Morzine Takes Care of You, 8th to 12th March
– Rock the Pistes, 14th to 20th March
– Finales des Foyers de Ski de Fond 74, 10th Match
– Tournoi des Douanes, 23rd to 25th March
– Course des Champions, 4th April
– La Bagui, 11th April
“For this winter, rest assured that we will continue to adapt and implement the appropriate health and safety measures to make sure your stay in Morzine is both the unforgettable holiday you’ve been dreaming of, and safe,” the resort adds.
