Aquariaz in Avoriaz: a tropical park at 29°C beneath an ETFE bubble at 1800m altitude

A tropical park at 1800m

Opened in 2012 by the Avoriaz resort, Aquariaz was designed to offer families an activity alternative to skiing. The concept is unique: to recreate a tropical ecosystem in the heart of the Alps, accessible from the ski slopes underfoot (entrance near the Amara residence).

The space is entirely indoors, beneath an architectural bubble of white canvas and glass. The air temperature is maintained at approximately 30°C, the water at 29°C, creating a striking contrast with the cold outside.

The attractions

The park features several zones:

A wild river with current, flowing between rocks and vegetation, over approximately 100m of course.

A multi-lane flume (River Run) for tube descents.

The Master Blaster, a water-jet propelled slide that propels swimmers both uphill and downhill.

A tropical hot tub (semi-outdoor in reality, beneath the bubble) with panoramic views over the planted landscape.

A heated beach with hot tubs and relaxation area.

A baby area with small water play for under-3s, depth 30cm.

Genuine tropical vegetation

This is the distinguishing element of the place: the vegetation is not artificial. More than 300 species of tropical plants are cultivated on site, maintained by a team of landscapers. There are banana trees, dwarf palms, hibiscus, tree ferns, and bromeliads. The immersive effect is complete, particularly when it is snowing outside.

Natural light passes through the ETFE panels of the roof (the same material as the Eden Project in Cornwall), which allows 95% of the UV light necessary for photosynthesis to pass through.

Rates and access

Aquariaz entry is included in the Portes du Soleil pass for 6 days and upwards, which is a strong draw for families staying in Avoriaz. Outside of the pass, a day entry for adults is around €25, children €20, free for under-3s.

Access is on foot from central Avoriaz, or on skis from the slopes. For visitors staying in Morzine below, allow for the Prodains cable car (10 minutes), then a few minutes’ walk.

Who it is designed for

Aquariaz targets primarily:

Families with children, who alternate skiing and tropical bathing within the same day.

Non-skiers accompanying a ski trip, who find here a substantial indoor activity.

Skiers recovering, after an intense morning on the slopes.

Hours

Aquariaz is open from 10am to 8pm during the winter season (December to April). Crowds are heaviest in late afternoon and on Wednesdays (often chosen as a poor weather day for a visit). Mornings are preferable to enjoy the facilities in calmer conditions.

Planning a stay in Avoriaz

AEC Collection selects and represents quality apartments and chalets in Avoriaz and Morzine. Aquariaz entry can be purchased on site or via the Portes du Soleil pass, the most economical option for families staying several days.