Every year, the heat drives many guests to seek cooler destinations for their summer holidays. The Alps offer an ideal setting for a summer holiday, with pleasant temperatures, beautiful scenery and outdoor activities for all the family.
Here we suggest a number of destinations in the Alps for your next summer holiday and give you some tips on how to prepare properly.
Spend your summer holiday in the Alps
Why should you choose the Alps for your summer holiday?
While the heat of the Mediterranean becomes less bearable every year, you’ll enjoy much more pleasant weather in the Alps.
Heading to the mountains during the warmer months has the added advatage of being more affordable and less crowded than most popular seaside destinations.
What’s more, the mountains in summer look very different from those in winter. Far from the traditional image of skiing and snow, the Alps come alive in some surprising ways. The villages offer a packed calendar of events, and the ski lifts stay open to provide access to a massive natural playground…
Average temperatures in popular European destinations
Global warming has had a significant impact on summer temperatures, particularly around the Mediterranean. So much so that the traditional idea of heading to the south coast to relax is becoming less and less appealing.
Take, for example, the average summer temperatures in four popular European destinations: the Costa del Sol, a holiday region in southern Spain; Crete, an island in southern Greece; Nice, on the Côte d’Azur; and Chamonix, the famous Alpine resort north of Mont Blanc.
Costa del Sol, Spain
Nice, France
Crete, Greece
Chamonix, France
As these figures show, Chamonix enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the summer, with a maximum average of 26.2°C. It’s warmer in Nice, at 27.8°C; in Crete it can reach 29.5°C, while the Costa del Sol averages 31°C.
The best places in the Alps to escape the heat
The Alps offer an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a heatwave-free summer holiday. To give you a bit of guidance, we’ve selected six resorts that combine authentic character, stunning scenery and a wide range of activities…
Châtel: fresh and natural
The picturesque village of Châtel, close to the Swiss border in the Portes du Soleil, is our favourite summer holiday destination. With its traditional character and natural beauty, it offers a whole range of outdoor activities for all ages and tastes.
Why spend your summer holidays in Châtel?
The Portes du Soleil area boasts one of the largest mountain bike areas in Europe, with 600km of marked trails and five Bikeparks, all accessible with a single lift pass. More than 20 bike-friendly lifts run throughout the summer.
In the village of Châtel, the Forme d’Ô public swimming complex has indoor and outdoor pools with play equipment for children, as well as a wellness pool, steam rooms, saunas and treatment rooms.
Soar through the clouds on the Fantasticable, one of the most impressive zipwires in Europe, which flies 240m over the valley. Lac de Vonnes is the perfect place for a family day out, with picnics and fishing.
The Portes du Soleil Multi Pass gives you access to a wide range of activities at reduced rates. It’s on sale all summer at the tourist office, but is also included with bookings for some of our partner chalets.
Where to stay in Châtel: Chalet Igel
With its shady covered terrace and a heated outdoor swimming pool available in July and August, Chalet Igel is the ideal place to spend the summer months in the mountains. And if the skies are grey, there’s a games room with table football and board games.
There’s a table tennis table and a trampoline in the garden to keep children of all ages entertained. The surrounding area offers many options for hiking and cycling, as well as climbing and paragliding.
Samoëns: history and relaxation
The pretty, unspoilt village of Samoëns is an ideal holiday destination if you want to explore the Grand Massif region in summer. Its pretty narrow streets lead to a pedestrianised central square, which has plenty of bars, restaurants and shops.
Why spend your summer holidays in Samoëns?
Samoëns is the only resort in the French Alps to be listed as a historic monument. Stroll in the footsteps of the stonemasons who made the village famous as you follow a guided trail from one statue to the next.
The village has been awarded the “Accueil vélo” (Cyclists welcome) label for its advice and facilities for cyclists. Several of the region’s road circuits feature regularly in the Tour de France, and the Vélo Vert Festival, held every year in Samoëns, is the second biggest mountain bike event in France.
If you’re spending your summer holidays with the family, check out the adventure park in the forest, which offers several treetop assault courses of varying difficulty and height. The Giffre valley also offers several opportunities for rock climbing.
Many outdoor activities are available in the region, including paragliding from the Plateau des Saix, at an altitude of 1600m, and rafting on the Giffre river and in the Gorges de Tines.
Where to stay in Samoëns: Chalet Les Pellys
Admire the mountain views from the hot tub when you stay at this modern property surrounded by alpine meadows and pine forests. Explore the local flora and fauna from marked trails which start on your doorstep. Despite its wonderful natural setting, the chalet is just a few minutes’ drive from the lifts and 7km from the village.
As well as a games room and home cinema, Chalet Les Pellys offers everything you need for a holiday with children, earning it the “Cool for Kids” label on our website.
Manigod: sunshine and tradition
Just an hour from Geneva and even closer to Annecy, this typical farming village overlooking the Thônes valley has a friendly, family atmosphere.
Why spend your summer holidays in Manigod?
Fun and tradition combine in the Manigod region, which has a year-round calendar of activities, culture and entertainment – something for everyone!
Hike to the Col de la Croix Fry and the Beauregard plateau, home to traditional mountain chalets – the views of the Aravis, Étale, Glières and Tournette are spectacular.
From the Col de Merdassier, take the trails of the Tour de la Tête de Cabeau to enjoy some of the scenery for which the Alps are famous. You can also explore the historic chapels in the six hamlets that make up the Manigod valley.
Finally, visit one of the region’s cheese farms and discover the secrets of making famous cheeses such as Reblochon, Mont Charvin and Tomme.
Where to stay in Manigod: Chalet Marinaka
Five-star Chalet Marinaka has all the facilities you need if your group includes children and cyclists. Located halfway between Manigod and the high-altitude resort of La Croix Fry, it can accommodate up to 11 guests in a bright, woodland setting.
With its picture windows, furnished balcony, garden and outdoor hot tub, you can enjoy the breathtaking views over the valley. This spacious chalet has two kitchens as well as a lounge, a bar area and a TV room.
La Clusaz: nature and family fun
Long before it became an international winter sports resort, La Clusaz was a farming village proud of its traditions. It has retained its authentic charm, with century-old chalets dotting the village and its surroundings, making every view a picture-postcard setting.
Why spend your summer holidays in La Clusaz?
In La Clusaz, farmers still take their herds to the mountain pasture farms for the summer. And you can buy cheeses, eggs and other traditional products direct from the producers.
The Plateau des Confins leisure area is the perfect place to spend a summer’s day with the family. Theres a great choice of activities, including a zip line, inflatable games, a trampoline and a slackline.
The Aravis water park is another great family outing. Children can let off steam in the pool and on the slide, while adults can relax in the hot tub or enjoy the sauna.
And who said sledging was just for the winter? There’s a summer toboggan run in the centre of the village where you can hurtle down 800 metres at top speed!
Where to stay in La Clusaz: Chalet Hollygotty
You’ll feel like you’re staying in the heart of nature at this 5-star chalet for eight people. Yet it’s only 2km from the village of La Clusaz.
Its bright dining room seems to invite the Alpine forest in through its large picture windows. The hot tub on the large wooden terrace offers breathtaking views of the Étale mountain and Beauregard. Chalet Hollygotty also has a table tennis table and a petanque court.
Le Grand-Bornand: tranquility at altitude
Situated 60km from Mont Blanc and Switzerland, and just 25km from Lake Annecy, this Savoyard village has been awarded the ‘Commune Touristique’ label for its wide range of activities. Its panoramic views of the Aravis mountains are breathtaking all year round.
Why spend your summer holiday in Le Grand-Bornand?
With its charming restaurants, traditional market, green pastures and history dating back to the 13th century, Le Grand-Bornand is a fascinating destination at any time of year…
Cyclists will be drawn to the area for its legendary climbs and the Col de la Colombière – a regular feature in the Tour de France, there’s no need to present Le Grand-Bornand. In summer, mountain bikers can hurtle down no fewer than 200km of mountain trails, which are accessible by cable car.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a day with the family at Lac de la Cour, a turquoise jewel at an altitude of 1,445m, overlooking the Col de la Colombière. It is open for fishing from June to September, with regular releases of brown and rainbow trout.
Finally, farming is an integral part of everyday life in this rural village, which boasts no fewer than 55 working farms. Here you can learn how to make Reblochon – the area’s signature cheese.
Where to stay in Le Grand-Bornand: Chalet Tolar
With its entertainment and relaxation facilities, this 5-star chalet close to hiking and mountain biking trails is ideal for families. Just a 10-minute walk from the village, it has a large, flat garden with views of mountain pastures.
There are family bedroom suites, garden furniture with barbecue, a Nordic bath and table tennis. Some rooms also have desks, so you can work remotely in the shadow of the mountains.
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains: elegance and well-being
Tourists have been flocking to this charming town for many years, attracted by its thermal baths as well as its access to Mont Blanc and the Évasion Mont-Blanc’s many activities, including hiking trails, outdoor sports and, of course, wellness sessions.
Why spend your summer holiday in Saint-Gervais?
Enjoy a family hike along the 5.7km Tour du Quy trail, open from mid-May to mid-October. It takes you through woods to traditional chalets, with the majestic backdrop of the Bonnant valley along the way.
Cyclists can use most of the ski lifts, as well as the Mont-Blanc Express train. Try the locals’ favourite route from the Prarion cable car to Saint-Gervais and Le Fayet.
The via ferrata route in the Saint-Gervais thermal park has three levels of difficulty, but be warned – they are all challenging! You’ll need to be in excellent physical condition and have a head for heights to enjoy this one.
Why not take it easy and make the most of the resort’s famous thermal waters? Relax your aching muscles in the outdoor or indoor baths, and rid your body of toxins with a session in the sauna or steam room.
Where to stay in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains: Chalet Beau Caillou
This mountain chalet has all the facilities you would expect from a 5-star property, including a home cinema and outdoor swimming pool. Enjoy the mountain views from the hot tub or detox and relax in the sauna.
With its wide open spaces, five bedrooms and exquisite views of Mont Blanc, it is particularly suited to two families looking for a holiday in harmony with the mountains.
Summer activities: what is there to do in the Alps?
To show you that the mountains are just as lively in summer as they are in winter, here is a (non-exhaustive) selection of the activities you can enjoy in the Alps:
- Hiking: explore the beauty of the region on one of the many trails;
- Cycling and mountain biking: discover the extensive network of cycling routes and paths;
- Paragliding: get a new angle on the mountains with a tandem paragliding flight;
- Water sports: try your hand at rafting, canyoning, canoeing or hydrospeed;
- Climbing and via ferrata: there are plenty of options for mountaineers and climbers of all levels;
- Golf: practise your swing on a mountainside in an enchanting setting;
- Horse-riding: explore the magnificent Alpine landscape on horseback with a guided trek;
- Summer tobogganing: a favourite activity for children of all ages;
- Visit a farm: learn about the animals and how local cheeses are made;
- Visit a farmers’ market: stock up on fresh produce, crafts and regional specialities.
Useful tips for planning your summer holidays in the Alps
Choosing your destination
Before you choose your accommodation, you need to know what you want from your summer holiday in the Alps. A mid-mountain village and a high-altitude resort offer different climates and different activities.
The mid-range mountains, with their lush green mountain pastures and dense forests, are more accessible. This option lends itself to family walks, horse-riding, tree-climbing and visits to farms.
Above 2,000m, the high mountains generally offer more adrenalin, in the form of trekking, paragliding, mountain biking or rafting.
Book in advance
The mountains may be less busy in summer than in winter, but habits change. So we strongly recommend that you book your accommodation and specific activities at least several weeks in advance.
Booking a chalet in advance also means you can choose from a wider range of accommodation, so you can find the one that is perfect for you and your group.
Getting fit
If you’re planning an active summer holiday in the Alps, you need to make sure you’re in good physical shape. With the difference in altitude and the reduction in oxygen in the mountains, it’s not just the scenery that’s likely to take your breath away.
If you’re not used to doing sport on a daily basis, we advise you to train beforehand. For example, take regular walks or start running at least three weeks before your trip.
What to pack for a summer in the Alps
In the mountains, it’s not unusual to experience the weather from four seasons in one day. The sun can be hot, but temperatures drop dramatically as soon as the clouds set in. So you need to plan for changing weather and pack accordingly.
Here are the essentials you can’t afford to be without:
- light clothing: T-shirts, shorts and light trousers for hot days and physical activities;
- anorak or warm jacket: for evenings, shady moments and days at altitude;
- swimwear: for mountain lakes, swimming pools or your private hot tub;
- hat, sunglasses and sun cream: even in mild weather, the sun can be unforgiving in the mountains;
- walking boots: for hiking or fetching bread in the morning;
- small rucksack: for your day trips.
If you’re planning a particular activity, don’t forget to take the equipment you’ll need with you, or hire it locally from one of the many sports equipment hire shops.
The mountains are no longer just a winter destination, and more and more people are choosing the Alps for their summer holidays. We hope we’ve been able to convince and guide you with our series of tips and our selection of destinations. Are you ready to choose the Alps this summer?
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