The Alps are a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts, but did you know that this region is also a great place for a family holiday in spring? The Alps offer a spectacular natural setting and a multitude of activities for all ages. And in spring, nature wakes up and transforms the wintry landscape into a green haven of peace.
If you love hiking, cycling, climbing or simply relaxing, this article will show you the most beautiful destinations in the Alps, to help you organise your next family trip.
From ski resorts to spring destinations
Morzine
The year-round resort of Morzine is a ski area in the Portes du Soleil in Haute-Savoie. But in the spring, this Alpine village transforms into an ideal destination for your family holiday.
Morzine offers a wide range of activities to suit all members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest including:
For more activities and ideas, visit the Morzine Tourist Office website.
Saint-Gervais
Another example of a year-round resort, Saint-Gervais is also a fantastic option for a spring getaway. Our top recommended activity is visiting the thermal spas. Visit the indoor and outdoor baths, book a wellness treatment, unwind in the saunas and steam baths, or take a moment to relax in the herbal tea room. The choice is yours!
In addition to this, you can also try some of the following activities on your spring trip to Saint-Gervais:
- Tennis (from May)
- Hiking
- Cycling and mountain biking
- Bunjee jumping
- Climbing
…and much more! (Make sure to check spring availability in advance, as some activities may have different opening hours.)
Your chalet in Saint-Gervais
La Clusaz
La Clusaz is a very popular ski resort in the Haute Savoie, but it’s especially good for family trips in the spring. You and your family can take part in a wide variety of activities at all levels, such as skiing, hiking, paragliding, climbing, canyoning… and many more.
La Clusaz is also renowned for its spring skiing, with slopes open until the end of April. You will be able to enjoy the snow and sunny slopes without the wintry weather.
Children are particularly well catered for in La Clusaz, with guided walks to discover the fauna and flora of the region, tree-top assault courses or pony rides among the many activities.
Your chalet in La Clusaz
Regional natural parks
The Écrins Regional Natural Park
Officially declared a national park in 1973, the Écrins covers nearly 92,000 hectares with a wide variety of landscapes. One of the largest nature parks in France, you’ll find green valleys, fresh lakes and snow-covered peaks.
In spring, the park awakens with the melting of the snow and the blossoming of flowers, offering a unique spectacle. Enjoy a wide range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, climbing or discovering the flowers and wildlife.
The Écrins National Park is also famous for its lakes, including the Serre-Ponçon Lake, an ideal springtime destination for family relaxation.
Queyras Regional Natural Park
This park in the Hautes-Alpes is characterised by a remarkable natural and cultural heritage, with traditional villages and high mountain pastures.
The park offers breathtaking landscapes with snow-covered peaks, endless forests and green meadows. In spring, there are many family activities such as hiking and cycling, visiting local museums and taking part in traditional festivals.
The must-see tourist destinations in the Alps
Take it to the top at Mont Blanc
The highest point in Europe at 4,810 metres, Mont Blanc offers breathtaking views. In spring, hiking and mountaineering are just two of the ways to discover its unique landscapes.
Mont Blanc is also one of the best destinations for spring skiing, with pistes open until the end of April. Enjoy the most majestic mountains with unforgettable panoramic views.
Or, if you prefer mountain biking, it’s home to many marked trails open to the public. This is a great opportunity to hurtle downhill and enjoy the scenery! You can hire bikes and equipment in the area, and enjoy guided tours or routes suitable for all levels.
Other activities are available in the surrounding villages, such as Chamonix, where you can discover the flora and fauna, visit local museums and take part in traditional festivals.
Mont Blanc is also a prime destination for air sports such as paragliding in the spring. Families can enjoy tandem flights with experienced instructors, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Finally, for the more adventurous, discover Mont Blanc on a six-day trek. For more information click here!
Lake Annecy, for lovers of fine food
Lake Annecy is a beautiful alpine lake in the heart of the mountains. In fact, it’s often considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.
In spring, the town of Annecy offers many family activities around the lake, such as hiking, cycling, swimming and water sports.
Families will love to explore the small villages of the region, with their traditional architecture, their local markets and their culinary specialities, such as tartiflette, raclette and Savoyard fondue.
Le Clos des Sens
This fine dining restaurant in Annecy-le-Vieux has been awarded three Michelin stars for its inventive and refined cuisine, highlighting local seasonal produce. The chef, Laurent Petit, offers a unique culinary experience, with menus ranging from six to 10 courses.
L’Esquisse
This Michelin-starred restaurant in the historic centre of Annecy offers creative and modern cuisine, using fresh and local seasonal produce. Chef Stéphane Dattrino’s tasting menus highlight bold flavours and original taste combinations.
Le Chalet d’Adrien
Located at the heights of Annecy-le-Vieux, the Chalet d’Adrien offers a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The chef, David Charlet, offers French gastronomic cuisine, using local produce with a modern twist on Savoyard specialities. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring local and international wines.
All three restaurants offer a unique dining experience, with a focus on quality produce and innovation. Why not accompany your (future) favourite Savoyard dishes with local wines such as Apremont, Chignin, or Roussette?
Chamonix – an Alpine village not to be missed
The resort of Chamonix is one of the Alps’ top destinations for a family holiday in the springtime. The Chamonix Valley offers a multitude of activities for all ages, such as hiking and visiting local museums.
Families can also enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with breathtaking scenery and unspoilt natural landscapes.
Chamonix is surrounded by beautiful mountains, valleys and glaciers which offer hiking routes for all levels. So, a walk with the family is a great way to discover these beautiful areas.
The resort is also renowned for its rich nature – you can discover the local flora and fauna through guided tours, park visits and workshops. Chamonix also offers a variety of activities for the more adventurous, such as rock climbing, paragliding and rafting.
The Alps are the perfect choice for your next spring holiday. You’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, discover the local flora and fauna, taste typical dishes in Michelin-starred restaurants or try some outdoor sports.
Visiting the Alps in spring is an unforgettable experience for all mountain lovers. And for an even more unforgettable stay, have a look at these articles:
So book the chalet of your dreams now, for a holiday you’ll never forget. And with our “Cool for Kids” label, you can be sure you’re making the right choice.
