While ski holidays for some mean being on the slopes every possible minute of every day, that may not be everyone’s idea of a great holiday. In fact, many OVO Network guests don’t ski at all. The great thing about our destinations is that they are not just ski resorts. There is a wealth of activities available where skis just aren’t needed! We’ve selected some of our favourites to give you a taster of what’s out there…
Adventures with Activ’ Annecy
Snowmobiling to Skydiving. Cruises to canyoning. Make it a holiday to remember…
When you start to look into what activities you can do here in the Alps the list seems never ending! In fact, it can be quite a daunting task to decide which company to go with for which activity, but Activ’ Annecy make life easy!
Activ’ Annecy are adventure advisors based in Annecy. With plenty of activities to choose from there really is something for everyone – from paragliding, snowmobiling and winter segway tours to lake cruises, hikes and hot air ballooning.
Sarah, the founder, has tried and tested all of the activities herself, so is happy to answer your questions and offer advice on which activities would suit you best. Whether you’re on your own, with friends or family, there’s something for everyone!
At OVO Network, we love what Activ’ Annecy do so much that we have partnered with them to make it even easier for you to make the most out of your holiday. For information on all the activities available visit our Activ’ Annecy page…
Horse and Pony Treks
Horseback is an incredible way to explore alpine resorts. Away from the crowds you can view the Aravis mountains from a new perspective, combining peace, nature and adventure.
Aravis Passion in La Clusaz offers horse and pony trek packages for all levels. Horse treks take place in the mornings and evenings, outside of the ski lift opening times, and you can experience the forests in tranquility. Pony trekking can be enjoyed throughout the day and is perfect for young families.
Visit Aravis Passion for more information. Please note that even though English is spoken by the team at Aravis Passion the website currently only exists in French.
A day trip to Annecy…
The city of Annecy is less than 45 minutes from the majority of OVO Network chalets. This historic town is renowned as a summer destination, but it has nearly as much to offer in the winter. Simply strolling around the old town is worth the trip. Beautiful buildings everywhere you look, the tranquillity of the waterways and wonderful restaurants and cafes to try. My personal favourite restaurant is l’Estanimet with its cosy atmosphere and friendly staff, not to mention the great food. And the best coffee in town (in my opinion) is found at the Café des Arts, which is cosy little cafe situated in the old prison building right in the middle canal.
If it’s culture you’re after you can visit the castle museum and it’s amazing gallery above the city. And if it’s retail therapy you’re after, you’re in for a treat in Annecy with fabulous independent shops, designer brands and high street labels to be found.
For more ideas on how to spend a day in Annecy visit our ‘A day in Annecy – our winter Top 5 ideas’ post.
Lots to do in La Clusaz
La Clusaz is fast becoming as well known to British skiers as it is to the French for its cool and vibrant atmosphere. As with most French resorts there is an ice rink and a fairly impressive swimming pool, but new and exciting venues are regularly appearing. The most recent of these is a brand new four lane bowling alley, aptly named ‘Le Bowling’. It makes a brilliant way to entertain kids and adults alike on those no-vis days…
The village also puts on regular events and activities. To see what’s on this winter visit our Aravis What’s On page.
Atelier Polkadot
If you fancy doing something completely different why not try a pottery and ceramics class at Atelier Polkadot?
Since 2009, Laurence has been creating and developing her own collections of illustrated glazed ceramics, functional handmade tableware and decorative artwork, in order to bring some poetry and colour to everyday life. Laurence speaks excellent English and she loves to share her talent in fun workshops where she takes you through the whole process from start to finish.
Visit Atelier Polkadot for information on upcoming workshops. If you can get a group of four to six together Laurence can adapt a private workshop just for you.
This is just a taster of what’s on offer away from the slopes in the Aravis… To find out more about what’s going on during your stay visit the our destination page for your area:
La Clusaz
Le Grand Bornand
Manigod
Annecy
