Take to the skies Get a totally different perspective on the mountains from a paraglider! Various packages are available, with special rates for groups, and even children as young as seven can enjoy a tandem flight. It’s a good idea to book early in your holiday so that there is time to reschedule in the event of bad weather.
Spa day After a strenuous day in the mountains, make the most of the area’s natural thermal waters.The five-star Hôtel Armancette, in Saint-Nicolas de Véroce, offers a wonderful spa experience with a heated pool and amazing views of the Dômes de Miage mountains. For the ultimate in pampering, choose from a wide range of treatments: facials, massages, body and nail care as well as day packages.
Mont Blanc tramway You’ll enjoy stunning views from this wonderful rack-and-pinion railway, which takes you from Saint-Gervais up to the Bellevue Plateau. In summer, it’s a great starting point for hikes and in winter, you can ski back down (and your ski pass will cover the cost). There’s a mountain restaurant at Bellevue where you can take in the views over a coffee.
Casino night If you fancy a bit of a flutter, head to the casino in Le Fayet to try your luck on the 75 slot machines, blackjack table or roulette. Complete your evening with a cocktail and a snack from the bar and enjoy some live music.
Meet the goats Young children will love being able to stroke the baby goats and watch the milking at this farm near Saint-Nicolas de Véroce. When they’re done, you can pick up some of the farm’s produce in the shop, including cheese, yoghurt and soap.
Via ferrata This Alpine adventure is a great day out for families with older children – it combines hiking and climbing on a trail cut into the rock face. You’ll wear a helmet and be clipped to the trail at all times to ensure your safety, but you’ll still need a head for heights! The course at the thermal park in Saint-Gervais has three levels of difficulty, but they are all a bit of a challenge – this is definitely one for the physically fit.
Snow fun Young families can join Charlotte the marmot at this play area at the Mont d’Arbois gondola, near Saint-Gervais, which can be reached on skis or by foot. As well as games, there’s a picnic area, sledging and sofas where you can relax and enjoy the view while the children play.
A day at the museum Discover the history of the Compagnie des Guides (mountain guides) at the Maison Forte de Hautetour, right opposite the tourist office. There’s also an interesting exhibition on climbing Mont Blanc and regular shows of local art.
Summer fun Make the most of the great weather with the Pass Loisirs (leisure pass). For a one-off payment, you get to use the Évasion Mont-Blanc domain lifts, the swimming pool in Saint-Gervais, the mini-golf, the skating rink, the library and the museums. You’ll also get a discount on attractions such as the Mont-Blanc Tramway and the thermal baths in Saint-Gervais. Check the website for the latest rates and conditions.
Canyoning thrills Children looking for adventure will find it canyoning – scrambling, climbing, jumping and swimming down mountain streams, rivers and waterfalls. You’ll be accompanied by a mountain guide, who will ensure your safety at all times. This thrilling experience is open to children over the age of 10, as long as they can swim and are not afraid of a 4m jump.
Mountain biking In the summer, the mountains around Saint-Nicolas de Véroce become a magnet for cyclists. Experienced mountain bikers will find plenty of challenge, as many of the trails are steep and technical, but there are trails for all levels. Bikes can be taken on many of the lifts, and on the Mont-Blanc Express train. Try the locals’ favourite run, from the top of the Prarion gondola down to Saint-Gervais and Le Fayet. The tourist office is a great place to start when looking for routes and advice.
Walk the gorge Visit Les Gorges de la Diosaz for a stunning walk along suspended footpaths, past impressive waterfalls. It’s a great choice on a sunny day, as much of the path is in shade. It’s a bit of a climb, but with so much to stop and look at along the way, you’ll hardly notice it.
