The skis are still in the cupboard. But the longing for the mountains is very much there.
A stroll in the snow, a few toboggan runs, a leisurely lunch or a sauna session by the Lac Bleu: in Morillon and Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, there’s plenty to do in winter even if you don’t ski. Whether you’re accompanying skiers or visiting for a completely different reason, you can fill your days with outings, exploring and cosy breaks indoors.
Here are some ideas to help you choose based on the weather, the children’s ages and what you fancy doing today. For opening times, prices and bookings, each section will take you to the practical information.
What to do in Morillon in winter if you don’t ski?
Go snowshoeing with someone who knows the area. In Morillon, guides offer tours to help you explore the region. Let them know your walking ability, how much time you have and the ages of the participants: the route is also chosen depending on the snow conditions.
It’s a chance to look up from your feet: a trail in the snow, the silhouette of a tree, a hamlet glimpsed as you round a bend. The pleasure often lies in these little details that you might otherwise have walked right past without noticing.
Meet up with skiers at Les Esserts. The Morillon cable car is accessible with a suitable pedestrian ticket. You can take the cable car from the village to meet your loved ones at Morillon 1100, subject to operating hours. Choose a meeting point that can be reached on foot, without having to use the ski runs.
In Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, take the time to explore
The village, the abbey and the stone houses offer a different perspective on the mountains. A stroll through the village can be followed by a guided tour included in the programme: please check the dates and times before you set off. In winter, it’s also nice to be able to cut the outing short and sit down for a bite to eat when the cold sets in.
For a day out in the snow, guided snowshoe walks are available in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. Some combine walking with an exploration of the mountain’s history: a way of bringing what you see to life.
The Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval in winter: check before you go.
Walking options depend on current conditions and restrictions. Check access and which routes are open with the tourist office or the Nordic centre. A route described for the summer – particularly the one to Bout du Monde – is not a winter route.
View the Nordic area information
With the children: slide, play, try again
| A sledge ride | An animation to share |
| In Morillon 1100 or Salvagny, find out where the toboggan runs are and check whether they’re open. Choose a dedicated area that’s suitable for the children’s ages. Equipment hire and any access fees should be arranged separately. | Choose an activity from the calendar for your stay: the recommended age, venue, price and booking details will help you narrow down your choices. Leave a bit of time in your day to fit in an impromptu break or a snack. |
| Find a sledge run | View the highlights of my holiday |
Lac Bleu, sauna and cosy breaks
In Morillon, an experience centred on heat and cold. On the shores of Lac Bleu, Bastu74 combines cold-water immersion with a mobile sauna. You can try it out with ASA, at the times they offer and subject to the conditions on the day.
Find out about how it works, the conditions for taking part and how to book. Choose a supervised session; this idea for an outing is not an invitation to go for a swim on your own in winter.
Would you prefer to take a break indoors? Take a look at the wellness treatments on offer in the valley: massages, yoga or relaxation areas, depending on the establishment. Check whether non-guests are welcome and book your slot where required.
Finding things to do when it’s raining
Fancy doing something a bit different?
Paragliding, ice climbing or other guided activities: the catalogue also features more adrenaline-fuelled outings. The meeting point may be in a neighbouring town. Before booking, check accessibility for non-skiers, the required skill level, the minimum age and the necessary weather conditions.
For ice climbing, contact a professional who will choose the location and package based on the conditions. For a paragliding flight, make it clear from the outset that you do not ski: access to the take-off point and the package must be suitable for your circumstances.
Three pictures, three ways to enjoy winter
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A sauna is a great way to relax… ![]()
snowshoe walkers
Two ideas for a day without skiing
Suggestions to fit in with opening times and bookings, so you don’t spend the morning wondering what to do.
| A day in Morillon | A day in Sixt |
| In the morning: a snowshoe walk tailored to your group, booked with a guide. | In the morning: explore the village and its heritage; add a tour if it’s on the programme. |
| At midday: meet up in the village or at Les Esserts – make sure you have a valid travel pass if you’re travelling by foot. | At midday: take the time to have lunch in the village or nearby. |
| In the afternoon: an activity, a wellness break or tobogganing, weather permitting. | In the afternoon: a guided outing in the snow, or an indoor activity if the weather changes. |
On a tight budget? Start with the village.
A leisurely stroll through the village is a great way to enjoy your stay without booking an activity. Check the events calendar for any free events on offer. For each outing, do bear in mind parking, transport and any potential hire costs: a day out without any paid activities isn’t always a day without any costs.
View the programme of events
Préparer votre journée sans ski
- Choose according to the weather: an outing in the snow and an indoor visit require different conditions.
- Check the details of the outing: location, access, route and return time.
- Book guided activities: confirm the equipment provided, the duration, the minimum age and the expected skill level.
- Have a fallback plan: a warm place to go or a visit to a museum or gallery can replace a cancelled outing.
To travel between the villages, check the ski bus routes and timetables for your dates. Make sure the bus stop serves the starting point of your activity.
