A British skier has tragically died after being found at the bottom of a cliff near the Avoriaz ski resort in the French Alps.
Local authorities confirmed that the body of the 23-year-old man was discovered on Monday, near the town of Morzine, in the popular Portes du Soleil ski region.
French prosecutor Xavier Goux-Thiercelin confirmed the death on Friday, with local police launching an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
Initial reports from local media suggest that the skier may have accidentally fallen off a cliff on 16 February, although further inquiries are ongoing.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has stated that it is providing support to the skier’s family and is in contact with local French authorities as investigations continue.
The Portes du Soleil, one of the largest ski areas in the world, straddles the French-Swiss border and includes Avoriaz, Morzine, and Les Gets among its most popular resorts.
Known for its vast off-piste opportunities, the region also presents challenging conditions, particularly for skiers venturing beyond designated slopes.
Accidents involving falls from cliffs or avalanches are not uncommon in this area, with skiers occasionally straying off marked runs, either unintentionally or in search of more thrilling terrain.
Authorities regularly warn skiers and snowboarders to stay within the designated pistes, especially in unfamiliar or hazardous conditions.
Skiing in the French Alps offers some of the best slopes in the world, but it also comes with significant risks.
In recent years, multiple incidents have involved skiers losing their way in poor visibility, or encountering hidden dangers such as cliffs, deep snow, or sudden changes in terrain.
Local ski patrols and rescue teams frequently issue warnings, particularly during periods of heavy snowfall and changing weather conditions, which can increase the likelihood of accidents and avalanches.
