Aquariaz in Avoriaz: 2,400m² of tropical jungle at 1,800m, opened in 2012
Aquariaz is one of the rare high-altitude water parks in France to attempt a complete tropical theme. Set at 1,800m in the Avoriaz resort, the complex opened in July 2012 and covers 2,400m² under a glazed structure, with over 1,570 plants and 183 tropical trees, many of which were imported from a nursery in Thailand. Devised by the Pierre & Vacances Center Parcs group as a themed mountain water park.
A guiding principle: recreating a Thai jungle at 1,800m
The design breaks from the standard “resort pool” approach to achieve immersive tropical theming. At ground level: rocks, roots and sculpted wood. Throughout: 1,570 plants, 183 tropical trees, over 260 plant species in total. Some were brought in from a Thai nursery, others acclimated locally.
Contrast is the venue’s defining principle: outside, snow and often sub-zero temperatures. Inside, air around 30°C, pools at 29°C, high humidity, jungle atmosphere. This contrast is claimed as the establishment’s signature.
What you’ll find inside
The route moves through several zones:
A main lagoon-shaped pool with verdant islands, where you swim in open water within a scenery of trees and rocks.
A flowing river channel where you drift along.
A children’s zone featuring a “water tree” with paddling pool, mini-slides, water play and geysers. One of the most popular spaces for families.
A 10-metre high Slidewinder half-pipe slide, which you descend on a float. The main attraction for teenagers and adults.
A heated outdoor jacuzzi, the only space where you can step outside for air in winter amidst the snow.
An indoor climbing wall, an uncommon feature in water parks, which broadens the offer beyond swimming alone.
Who it’s designed for
Families with children staying in Avoriaz are the clear target, seeking a half-day alternative to skiing. It’s also a practical refuge in poor weather (heavy snow, blizzards, low visibility) when skiing becomes impossible.
Couples and solo adults may also find it rewarding outside school holidays, when visitor numbers are lower and pools less crowded.
Avoriaz
Travel Book AEC CollectionAccess, opening hours and admission
Aquariaz opens in two seasons, winter and summer:
Winter season (mid-December to mid-April): open in the afternoon, closed Saturdays except by exception.
Summer season (July, August): similar hours, equally strong visitor numbers.
Admission prices vary by season and age, free for children under three.
Access is direct from Avoriaz resort, without a car (Avoriaz is car-free).
Points to note
Several things to bear in mind:
At peak times (French school holidays, early afternoon), the centre can become congested, pools crowded and acoustic comfort challenging. Late afternoon is often quieter.
The tropical atmosphere is immersive but also very humid, which can become oppressive. A session of 2 to 3 hours is often sufficient.
Avoriaz is car-free: cars remain in one of the covered car parks at the resort entrance, or you travel up from Morzine on the Prodains cable car.
Planning a stay in Avoriaz
AEC Collection selects and represents quality apartments and chalets in Avoriaz and the Portes du Soleil. Aquariaz is integrated into the car-free resort layout, within walking distance of most accommodation. Check precise opening hours and any technical closures on the establishment’s official website.
By the AEC Collection team
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