Posted on 19 May 2025
Times are changing, and summer holidays in the French Alps are now catching up with their solid reputation as a top-notch ski destination. Rather than relying on a few winter months to make money for the whole year, local resorts are marketing themselves as ideal holiday destinations all year round.
Alpine summers are drier and warmer than the UK, and family adventure activities include hiking, biking, and even golf. Other resorts also offer abseiling and paragliding, increasing their appeal, especially for family holidays and real estate investors.
Summer Holidays in the French Alps
Fun Filled Things to Do
Cycling: The world’s most famous cycle race, the Tour de France, passes through yearly. It is a testament to the appeal to cyclists. The Portes du Soleil area, straddling France and Switzerland, promotes both types of cycling, and Chatel boasts 15 chairlifts to lift bikes to 600 kilometres of tracks, 19 trails and a bike park.
Golf: Savoie and Haute Savoie form one of Europe’s most picturesque and famed golf destinations, including Chamonix, Avoriaz, Megève, Tignes, Les Arcs and Courchevel. The family-oriented resort of Les Gets has an 18-hole course.
Tennis: Many resorts have tennis facilities, but hardcore enthusiasts know the Courchevel club as an international tennis hub and often hosts professional tournaments. Flaine, part of the Grand Massif and another popular resort with top-notch facilities, also features tennis camps.
Paragliding: Paragliders worldwide love Chamonix Valley, in Mont Blanc’s shadow. It suits beginners and experienced flyers because of the many flying schools.
Rafting and canyoning: Canyoning and rafting are two exciting activities. Fantastic rivers in Haute Savoie include L’Isère, the source of which is near the village of Val d’Isère, and the Dranse, only 30 minutes from Chatel. So aside from things to do, which resorts are worth visiting outside of winter months?
Summer Holiday Destinations in the Alps
1: Lake Annecy – an Ideal Destination
If gentle strolls and lakes are your idea of family holidays, then Lake Annecy could fit the bill. With spectacular views and fresh air, visiting Lake Annecy blends outdoor adventure and relaxed charm. The lake’s crystal-clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and sailing, with numerous public beaches and boat rental spots dotted along the shore. The surrounding scenery provides endless hiking and biking opportunities. Whether cycling around the dedicated lakeside path or paragliding from Col de la Forclaz, the area has various fun activities.
The town of Annecy adds cultural touches to the holiday with canals, flower-lined bridges, and pastel-colored buildings, earning it the nickname “The Venice of the Alps.” Expect open-air markets, lively cafés, and events like the Annecy Lake Festival, complete with fireworks over the water. After exploration, relax with local Savoyard cuisine on a terrace overlooking the lake as the sun sets behind the majestic peaks.
2: Chamonix Mont Blanc
Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix, a world-renowned village, becomes a vibrant hub once the snow melts. Though famous as a ski resort, spring through to Autumn reveals a new side of Chamonix for nature. Visitors can access ski lifts even in warmer months, making exploring marked trails easy and reaching stunning viewpoints without strenuous climbs. Landscapes, dotted with beautiful hikes and dramatic vistas of snow-dusted peaks, feature fun-filled activities like horse-riding, tree-top trails, bike rides, and white-water rafting. Indeed, Chamonix provides the perfect holiday for thrill-seekers and to unwind amid breathtaking scenery.
Surrounding areas feature charming valleys, to explore on day trips or longer itineraries. Explore vast forests and pristine lakes, take road trips to picturesque villages, or train through the forests. Whether after an action-packed adventure weekend or a relaxing retreat with access to natural lakes, pastures, and fortress ruins, Chamonix delivers fun activities and natural scenery. Do ride the cable car up to Aiguille du Midi.
3: Morzine for Family Activities
Spending your holidays in Morzine, a charming village, is perfect for relaxation. Renowned among summer resorts, expect a stunning gateway with various activities and magnificent landscapes. The area delights enthusiasts and families alike, from thrilling hikes to relaxing strolls.
Whether enjoying water sports at a beautiful lake nearby or taking in the incredible scenery from high-altitude viewpoints via ski lifts, Morzine promises a fun-filled holiday. Morzine also makes an excellent base for exploring other parts, including medieval towns, and is perfect when planning an itinerary or simply unwinding in one of the region’s prettiest villages.
4: La Plagne for Stunning Landscapes
La Plagne, a refreshing alternative to busier tourist destinations, is known primarily as a winter ski resort, but becomes a scenic base for outdoor exploration in warmer months. Visitors can reach high-altitude trails with direct lifts and enjoy views of surrounding peaks without the strenuous climb. It’s a fantastic destination for hikers, with several routes including gentle family walks and more challenging ascents. The area also connects easily to the wider Paradiski domain.
Beyond its natural appeal, La Plagne features remnants of traditional life, and nearby towns like Aime or Bourg-Saint-Maurice offer fascinating local history, from ancient churches to old farming hamlets. La Plagne provides excellent infrastructure, cosy lodges, and easy transportation links, making it a comfortable place to stay while exploring Vanoise National Park or other nearby tourist destinations. Whether you’re here for the peaks or the past, La Plagne delivers unforgettable experiences.
5: Val D’Isere
Val d’Isère, a renowned ski resort, transforms into a vibrant, activity-filled destination once the snow melts. Known for magnificent landscapes, the town, nestled within the stunning Massif de Savoie, is perfect. While Val d’Isère earns fame for winter sports, the lack of snow in alternative months reveals lush natural scenery, including glacial valleys, and crystal-clear pristine lakes. Surrounding areas are home to lovely mountain villages, each offering charming atmospheres.
Bike rides are especially popular, with resort trails for cycling through breathtaking landscapes. The region provides several scenic hikes that cater to all levels, from strolls to more challenging treks through vast forests and high-altitude meadows. Whether you want relaxing walks along the lake or hiking experiences through valleys, there are hikes for every type of adventurer. For something different, horse-riding and tree-top trails provide unique ways to enjoy the mountain scenery.
An itinerary could include everything from road trip itineraries through charming villages to action-packed adventure weekends filled with bike rides and exploring the area’s natural lake. Explore picturesque villages and discover local history. Enjoy blended adventure and relaxation from villages to ancient towns, making it one of the most desirable tourist destinations. Val d’Isère is a true escape with stunning views and endless things to do.
Natural Attractions to Enjoy
Lakes like Lac d’Annecy, Lac de Montriond, and the emerald-green Aiguabelette Lake promote swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the shore with a view of towering peaks. These natural lakes are surrounded by charming meadows and forests, making them perfect picnic spots or starting points for scenic walks.
Summer also brings scenic views and landscapes that are second to none. From rolling pastures to dramatic cliffs and glacial valleys, this is a canvas of ever-changing colours and textures. Hike or lift to panoramic lookouts like Mont Revard or Col de la Forclaz, where the vistas stretch across rugged peaks and deep green valleys. In places like the Vanoise National Park or Écrins Park, you can spot ibex, marmots, and golden eagles while walking among wildflowers, rare orchids, and fragrant pine forests.
Related questions:
Are the French Alps worth visiting in summer?
Yes, they are worth visiting in summer—and for many travellers, they’re even more appealing in the warmer months than in winter. Here’s why:
Natural Beauty Without the Crowds: Expect full colour, with lush green valleys, wildflower-strewn meadows, and snow-capped peaks under clear blue skies. Unlike the busy ski season, summer is often more relaxed, with fewer crowds and a more tranquil atmosphere in resort towns.
Outdoor Adventures: Attracting hikers, bikers, climbers, and nature lovers, there are hundreds of trails, from gentle family hikes and strolls to serious multi-day treks like the Tour du Mont Blanc. Many ski lifts stay open, giving easy access to high-altitude views without strenuous climbs.
Lakes, Forests & Wildlife: Mountain lakes like Lac de Montriond or Aiguabelette Lake offer swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The forests and national parks (like Vanoise and Écrins) are home to wildlife like marmots, ibex, and eagles, and the flora ranges from wild herbs to rare flowers.
Ideal for Families and All Ages: Catering to families, couples, and solo travellers with water sports, tree-top adventures, ziplining, and mountain biking. Many resorts run programs for kids and offer easy lifts to explore.
Charming Towns & Culture: Towns like Annecy, Chamonix, Morzine, and Briançon offer history, food, and architecture alongside nature. Some are even UNESCO-listed or have roots in medieval and Roman times, making the region as rich in culture as it is in scenery.
Where to stay in the French Alps in summer?
Where you stay depends on your desired experience, from hiking, lakeside relaxation, or cultural exploration. Here are some of the best places to stay, each offering a different kind of mountain holiday:
Chamonix
- A world-famous town and base for hiking, especially around Mont Blanc.
- Includes the Aiguille du Midi and the Montenvers train.
- Perfect for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Lively town with restaurants, bars, and events.
Annecy
- The “Venice of the Alps” has canals, old town streets, and a lake for swimming and boating.
- Suitable for families, couples, and relaxed yet scenic stays.
- Near the Massif des Bauges for accessible hikes and day trips.
Morzine
- Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, ziplining, and kids’ programs.
- Best for marked trails and panoramic views.
La Clusaz
- A picturesque town in the Aravis Mountains, popular for hikers and scenic walks.
- Less crowded than the larger resorts but still well-equipped with lifts.
Les Gets
- Explore family-friendly attractions like an adventure park and a mechanical music museum.
- Belongs to the Portes du Soleil area, with lift access and cycling routes.
Briançon
- A UNESCO-listed fortified 18th-century town in the southern Alps.
- Close to the Écrins National Park for nature.
- Combines culture, history, and alpine landscapes.
Serre Chevalier
- Located near Écrins National Park, it features hikes and water sports.
- A good choice for quiet but active holidays with alpine peaks nearby.
Les Saisies or Megève
- Both offer a blend of alpine village ambience, hiking, and beautiful views.
- Megève is more upscale with boutique hotels, while Les Saisies is quieter and family-friendly.
What is the best month to visit the French Alps?
The best month to visit depends mainly on the type of experience you want: activities, skiing, or a balance of both. Here’s a breakdown by season:
Summer (June to September)
Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) at lower altitudes. These months offer the best weather, with long days and plenty of sunshine. Festivals and events are common during this period, and the alpine meadows are in full bloom, creating stunning vistas. Ideal for biking and exploring alpine lakes, this region also operates ski lifts and runs high-altitude trails. This is peak tourist season, so popular areas like Chamonix, Annecy, and Morzine can be busier.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures are still mild, and the crowds have started to thin out. Great for autumn colours as alpine forests turn golden. It’s also a quieter time for more peaceful experiences. This month experiences good weather without crowds, so people enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic drives.
Winter (December to March)
The weather is cold, with snow at higher altitudes, hence people flock for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Winter sports dominate in places like Chamonix, Les Deux Alpes, and Courchevel. Ski resorts offer excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding, and these months have the best snow conditions. January tends to be quieter than February, which is peak holiday time for families, especially during French school vacations. Expect a significant increase in visitors during school holidays in February, so if you prefer quieter slopes, January might be a better option.
Spring (April to June)
Temperatures start to warm up, especially in the valleys, but higher altitudes may still have snow. The hiking season begins with fewer tourists and lower prices than peak months. Ski resorts start winding down for the season, but many still offer spring skiing. This is a shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and great weather for exploring the region. The alpine flowers start blooming, making for gorgeous scenery. The area is generally quieter in May and early June so that you can enjoy peaceful hikes and exploration.
Summary:
- For hiking, lakes, and outdoor exploration, July and August are the best months.
- January and February offer the best snow conditions for skiing, but expect higher crowds in February.
- For hiking and lower crowds, September offers mild weather and fewer tourists.
- For quieter spring hiking, May and early June are ideal before crowds arrive.
- Each season has something special, but July and August are ideal for alpine experiences and pleasant weather.
More Information on the Alps
Buying a Year-Round Ski Apartment: More than ever, people are investing in the French ski property market. What was once a stagnant industry now offers potential overseas buyers an excellent investment. Chalets were the preferred trend some years ago, but more people now opt for apartments because of better prices, easier management, and location.
Glacier Skiing in Summer: Look no further than glacier skiing in France for an unforgettable adventure. Nestled in the breathtaking Alps, France boasts stunning glacier resorts with towering peaks, pristine snow, and spectacular views. Skiing on these majestic glaciers offers unique experiences for both seasoned skiers and beginners alike.
Cycling in the Alps: For avid cyclists who love summer holidays in the French Alps, cycling should be on your bucket list. Indeed, many people buying property associate it with the famous reputation for skiing. But outside of the winter months, they become an outdoor playground with cyclists flocking from around France and the world.
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