You might have spent many winter or summer holidays in the French Alps, but have you ever visited in autumn? Imagine the striking Alpine scenery you know in winter or summer, but dressed in warm autumnal colours, which get bathed in romantic afternoon light every day.
If you’re yet to discover reasons to visit the Alps in autumn, then make sure to read our post all about that too. But in this post, we’re going to focus on the specific activities on offer.
Though many operators and providers close their doors outside of the main holiday months, there are still plenty of great fun activities on offer to keep everyone happy. Here are a few of our favourites…
Biking
Mountain biking in the Alps in autumn
There are a huge number of trails around the Aravis and Portes du Soleil areas, as well as other popular destinations across the French Alps.
OK, so the lifts are closed outside of the holiday months and you’ll have to get up there under your own steam… However, that does make for empty trails, so no queues and no pressure!
Road Cycling
The Alps are a Mecca for road cyclists the world over, and the generally cooler temperatures in autumn often make for a more comfortable ride.
With thousands of routes winding their way through the mountains, there’s something for all levels of cyclist.
You could follow the 159 km route of Stage 10 of the 2018 edition of the Tour de France, all the way from Annecy to Le Grand Bornand, passing over famous cols such as the Col de la Croix Fry and the Plateau des Glières. Or, a less gruelling option, is a lap of Lake Annecy along the 40 km cycle path. Discover our top 5 routes here.
Bcyclet also stocks quality road bikes. They are based in Geneva but offer a delivery service so you don’t even need to leave your chalet to get geared up.
Browse self-catered properties in the French Alps
Hiking in the Alps in Autumn
From the peaks of the Aravis Mountains and the stunning landscapes of Mont Blanc, to gentler landscapes and beautiful lakes, the French Alps are a paradise for walkers of all levels. Add in the beautiful autumnal colours and the fantastic walking trails are transformed.
Annecy is another fantastic hiking destination all year round. Visit our hiking in Annecy page to learn more about the walking trails in this beautiful area.
Numerous tracks, incredible wildlife, and scenery that you will remember forever, walking and hiking in the Alps in autumn are a real treat. Take a look at our top hiking routes here.
Golf in the Alps
The French Alps are not necessarily the first place that would jump to mind when considering where to spend your next golfing trip. But imagine this: teeing off onto quiet fairways, with mountain and lake views all around…
Golf in the French Alps is rapidly gaining popularity. There are a real mix of courses, ranging from charming family-run nine-hole courses to world-famous championship courses. Check out our post showcasing a few of our favourite gold courses in the area to give you some inspiration for your next golfing getaway.
Paragliding
If you think the Alps are stunning from ground level, just wait until you get up above them!
There are a number of ways, some adrenaline-fueled, some more relaxed, to get up above our stunning mountains. Visit your local tourist office for more information on paragliding flights, hot air balloon rides, and helicopter tours that may be happening near you!
Via Ferrata
A cross between hiking and climbing, you’ll set off for a walk along the cliffs on a circuit of boards, grips, ropes, ladders and sometimes zip lines.
Secured by a harness you follow a metal cable along a rocky wall offering breathtaking views. You’re safely secured at all times, making this a great way to experience something close to climbing without needing the expertise.
For those new to this exhilarating sport it is possible to book a guide, helping you to pick up good safety habits as well as top tips on how to tackle the routes.
Via Ferrata can be done in a group or as a family, and can be adapted to all abilities and ages, from six and above. There are a number of routes in our destinations. Visit ViaFerrata.com to find Via Ferratas near you.
So, those were our top autumn activities in the Alps! If you’re yet to book your trip, then take a look at our range of fantastic partner properties for an autumnal getaway here.
