Despite the Alps’ reputation as a winter sports playground, there are many reasons to visit in summer too. August is a beautiful month to plan a trip, and with summer in full swing, there is plenty to see and do in your favourite mountain resort.
In this post, we share 5 reasons to visit the Alps in August including:
- Cycling holidays
- Hiking holidays
- Family activities
- Lakes
- Wellness retreats
So whether you’re travelling with kids, as a couple or with a group of friends, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable summer break in the Alps. Read on to find out more…
Why visit the Alps in August?
1. Cycling
Summer is the time when many holidaymakers swap skis and snowboards for two wheels – and the Alps are the perfect place to do it. Depending on altitude, the season runs from approximately mid-April to mid-October, and August is a popular time for bikers who travel from far and wide to explore the mountains.
As a bonus, cyclists have the chance to challenge themselves on some of the famous routes following the Tour de France which takes place in July.
Mountain biking
Whether you’re a novice, an expert or getting your kids into the sport, the Alps are also a mountain biking mecca, home to countless tracks for all abilities.
The Portes du Soleil specifically is a hotspot for mountain bikers. Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz, Les Linderets, Châtel, Les Crosets, Champery & Morgins are all connected via lifts and there is over 650km of trails to explore.
Cycling-friendly chalets in the Alps
2. Hiking holidays
In the Alps, there are endless opportunities for avid hikers. From challenging ascents to casual strolls, if your goal is to spend the majority of your holiday outdoors exploring the mountains, then a hiking retreat in August is perfect for you.
Here are some handy guides for your hiking holiday:
- Walking holidays in the Alps: our favourite walks
- Which animals can you see in the mountains in summer?
- La Clusaz hiking: the top trails for all abilities
- Best hiking routes in Chamonix
- Hiking in Annecy: the top trails for all abilities
If you plan on bringing your dog on holiday with you, there are also a multitude of trails for you to discover together. But just be aware that temperatures can rise to the mid-twenties and above, so always consider the welfare of your dog before taking them on hikes with you. Also, make sure you’re also aware of what to do if you come across a mountain sheepdog on your hike.
Find your dream chalet in the Alps
3. Family activities
With the summer holidays in full swing, many popular Alpine resorts will offer plenty of family-friendly summer activities and events such as festivals, concerts and fairs to keep your kids entertained. For example, the Bonheur des Momes children’s festival usually takes place at the end of August in Le Grand Bornand in the Aravis region.
Other ideas for friendly-family summer activities* include:
- Summer luge (which can be enjoyed in La Clusaz, Morzine and Chamonix)
- Via ferrata
- Canyoning
- Family bike rides
- Horse riding
- Kayaking, rafting and pedalo rides
- Ziplining (available in Châtel)
- Paragliding
- Adventure parks (including treetop adventures)
- Farm visits
- Museums
*(Please note some activities are subject to age restrictions.)
Browse “Cool for Kids” chalets in the Alps
4. Lakes
Temperatures can rise to the mid-twenties and above in the Alps in August, so what better way to cool off than at one of the many beautiful lakes?
Lake Annecy, Combloux Biotope Lake, Montriond Lake, Lake Vonnes and Lac de Passy are just a few spots to enjoy watersports, fishing, BBQs, picnics, walks or just a swim. (Make sure to check restrictions before visiting. Some lakes do not allow dogs or swimming in certain areas, for example.)
And if you’re feeling adventurous, Lake Annecy offers a wide variety of watersports activities, including paddleboarding, waterskiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, and more! Plus, with its famous ice cream shops and meandering canals, the Old Town of Annecy is the ideal outing for families, couples, or groups of friends in summer.
5. Wellness retreats
August is a brilliant time to plan a wellness retreat in the mountains. Practise yoga with a view, take a mindful walk through the mountain pastures or unwind in a wellness centre such as QC Terme in Chamonix – there are plenty of ways to enjoy a restorative break in the Alps.
At OVO Network, many of our partner chalets are perfectly equipped for wellness retreats. Take a look below at Chalet Le Mousqueton in La Clusaz:
In summer, the large terrace can also be used for outdoor dining or practising yoga.
Explore more wellness chalets in the Alps
We hope you found this guide useful and are ready to start planning your August holiday! If you’re still unsure when to visit, then check out our other guides on when to visit the Alps.
If you liked this post we think you’d also enjoy:
- Cycling in the Alps: Where should you stay?
- 7 reasons to plan a sporty holiday in the Alps
- Top 7 luxury chalets for a family holiday in the Alps
- Top 7 kid-friendly luxury properties in the Alps
- Our summer archives
