Tunnel or Ferry?
Planning a Winter or Summer holiday to the French Alps and thinking of driving to Morzine? You’re not alone! Many visitors opt to drive for the convenience, flexibility, and ability to bring all their gear along. But when crossing the Channel, the question arises: Tunnel or Ferry? Both options have their advantages, so here’s a handy guide to help you choose the best way to start your Morzine adventure.
1. Eurotunnel (Channel Tunnel) — Fast and Efficient
If speed is your priority, the Eurotunnel is hard to beat. Departing from Folkestone, it takes just 35 minutes to cross the Channel, and you stay in your car the entire time. Simply drive on, sit back, and before you know it, you’re in Calais and ready to hit the road towards Morzine.
Best For: Drivers who want the quickest, most straightforward route without worrying about weather delays or seasickness.
Top Tip: Book early for the best prices, and consider traveling outside of peak hours for smoother boarding.
2. Ferry — Relax and Enjoy the Views
Taking the ferry from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk is a more leisurely way to cross. The crossing takes around 90 minutes, giving you time to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the sea views. It’s also often a little cheaper than the Eurotunnel, especially if you’re traveling at off-peak times.
Best For: Families or groups who want a break from driving and a chance to relax before tackling the long drive through France.
Top Tip: Consider sailing to Dunkirk instead of Calais — it’s often quieter and only adds about 10 minutes to your journey.
3. Why Drive to Morzine?
Both the tunnel and ferry put you within easy reach of the Alps. From Calais, it’s about a 8–9 hour drive to Morzine, with plenty of motorway service stations along the way. Driving also gives you the freedom to bring as much luggage as you like, stop at scenic spots en route, and avoid the hassle of airports.
4. Additional Tips for a Smooth Journey
Whichever route you choose, these tips will help make your trip even better:
- Travel overnight — Leaving the UK in the evening and driving through the night can help you avoid traffic and arrive in resort early.
- Share the driving — If you’re traveling with others, take turns behind the wheel to stay fresh and alert.
- Plan your stops — French motorways (autoroutes) have excellent rest areas, some with picnic spots and playgrounds for kids.
- Check the weather — If snow is forecast, make sure you have snow chains or winter tyres, as they are mandatory in the mountains during winter.
- Book in advance — Both ferry and tunnel crossings can get busy during school holidays, so secure your tickets early to get the best price and preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Both the Eurotunnel and the ferry are great options for driving to Morzine — it really depends on your priorities. If you value speed and simplicity, the tunnel is your best bet. If you’d rather relax and save a bit of money, the ferry could be the way to go. Either way, driving to Morzine gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Which do you prefer — tunnel or ferry? Let us know in the comments!