Alpine Adventures: The Ultimate Family Guide to Summer in the Alps

Summer holiday in the Alps

When you think of the Alps, do you envision snowy peaks and winter sports? While the Alps are famous for their winter allure, they’re equally enchanting in summer. With a wealth of activities and breath taking scenery, the Alps offer unforgettable experiences for families during the warmer months. So, why not choose a summer holiday in the Alps this year? In our guide to summer in the Alps you will find everything you need to plan that special family trip.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best destinations for summer in the Alps, focusing on Chamonix, Morzine, Les Gets, and Chatel. Each has countless summer activities to try, beautiful unspoilt countryside to explore, and cultural experiences to enjoy.

Alpine Family Activities

Hiking in the Alps

The Alps in summer are a hiker’s paradise. Families can explore a diverse range of trails, from leisurely walks to more challenging hikes. In Chamonix, the Lac Blanc trail is popular for its stunning views of Mont Blanc. As you follow the winding path, you will be treated to a stunning 360° panorama of the Mont Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges. Even in the summer months, the lake is usually surrounded by snow, and the reflection of the peaks against the water creates a truly dramatic scene.

For a relaxing stroll through picturesque hamlets near Morzine, we love Montriond Lake.  Starting from the town centre of Montriond, the trail follows the River Dranse and takes you through the picturesque hamlets of Le Lavanchy and Le Dravachet, leading up to Montriond Lake. The lake was formed by a landslide from Nantaux Mountain and serves as a hub for various activities such as canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. You can take a full walk around the lake and take a detour to see the impressive Cascade d’Ardent waterfall. In Chatel, the Vonnes Lake Loop is an easy walk suitable for all ages. Located just one kilometre from the village centre, the trail around the lake is suitable for walking, cycling, and pushchairs. Additionally, there is a lovely playground for children. Walking in the Alps in summer is an experience not to be missed.

Mountain Biking in the Alps

Mountain biking is a major draw in the Alps during summer. Rental options are abundant, and many trails cater to families. Morzine and Les Gets are known for their extensive mountain biking networks, with trails of varying difficulty. Morzine bike park is open from 14^th June to 15^th September 2024 The Morzine trail network is vast and continually evolving, with new trails added every year. The extensive range of trails and terrains caters to every skill level, leaving riders feeling ecstatic.

From smooth green single-track trails suitable for families and beginners to progressive jump tracks to enhance your skills and learn new tricks, all the way up to world championship level options. In Chamonix, the Les Grands Montets area provides exciting options for experienced bikers, while Chatel offers more relaxed trails for fun family cycles with smaller children. Mountain bikers will enjoy some of the best trails in the world – a unique advantage to the French Alps in summer.

Watersports in the Alps

The Alps are also home to beautiful lakes and rivers, offering plenty of opportunities for water sports. Families can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. In Chatel, you will find fishing, swimming, and white water sports. Lake Vonnes offers paddleboarding for children and adults, simply rent your board and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the lake. Lake Geneva can be reached from Chatel in under an hour with lots of water sports options such as windsurfing, wakeboarding and even pedal boats to hire.

Adventure Parks in the Alps

For families seeking thrills, the Alps have several adventure parks with zip lines, ropes courses, and other outdoor activities. Les Gets features the Aventure Parc, ideal for children and adults alike. Morzine’s Indiana’Ventures offers similar excitement with activities suitable for all ages.

Cultural Experiences in the Alps

To experience the local culture, explore the villages, markets, and traditional events in the Alps. Chamonix has a vibrant atmosphere with bustling markets and live music events. Morzine and Les Gets host summer festivals and village fairs, while Chatel offers a more tranquil setting with traditional markets and family-friendly activities.

Family-Friendly Destinations for Summer in the Alps

Chamonix in Summer

Chamonix is renowned for its iconic Mont Blanc views and glacier visits Chamonix is a great place to enjoy various summer activities in the Alps such as mountaineering, white water rafting, and mountain biking. One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in the region is the breathtaking view from the top of Aiguille du Midi. It’s the closest you can get to Mont Blanc without actually climbing it.

The cable car journey is thrilling as it ascends above 3,800 metres. The summit offers incredible scenery.

Plus, don’t miss the Panoramic Mont Blanc, a stunning cable car from Courmayeur in Italy to the Aiguille du Midi.

The town also offers a variety of family-friendly summer activities, from mini-golf to climbing walls.

Morzine & Les Gets in summer

Morzine and Les Gets are charming villages known for their mountain biking trails and summer events. These destinations offer a laid-back vibe with a range of activities for families. In addition to biking, you can enjoy the weekly markets, outdoor concerts, and children’s workshops. Morzine is a charming and authentic village in the Haut-Savoie region. It has managed to preserve its unique character and beauty and is regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in the Portes du Soleil area.

The village is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including pristine blue lakes, rivers and lush green mountains. Just 5 miles from the centre of Morzine is Les Gets. A beautiful Alpine town offering a wide range of summer activities, picturesque views, and diverse dining options. Whether you’re into road cycling or mountain biking, running, swimming, hiking or just enjoying the sunshine, Les Gets is the perfect place to head to enjoy summer in the Alps this year.

Chatel in summer

Chatel is situated near Lake Geneva, providing easy access to water-based activities. It’s a great destination for families seeking a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of outdoor adventures. Chatel also offers unique activities like the Fantasticable zip-line, where you can soar over the valley.

Planning Your Summer Holiday in the Alps

Where to stay

Accommodation in the Alps varies from hotels to self-catered apartments, chalets, and campsites. In Chamonix, you can find luxurious hotels with stunning views. Morzine and Les Gets offer a mix of hotels and chalets, while Chatel has cosy campsites and budget-friendly options.

Travel to the Alps in Summer

Setting out on a journey to the picturesque Alps in summer is not just about reaching your destination; it’s about embracing the adventure from the moment you set foot on your chosen mode of transport. Whether you opt for the convenience of a plane or the scenic route aboard a train, your voyage to resorts like Morzine, Les Gets, Chatel, and Chamonix is filled with anticipation and excitement.

Geneva Airport serves as a gateway to the Alps, and Ski Lifts offers seamless connections to your ultimate destination.

Your Geneva to Morzine transfer awaits, promising a smooth transition from airport terminals to alpine relaxation. With the Geneva to Les Gets transfer, you’re whisked away to a haven of outdoor pursuits and charming alpine villages. Each transfer from Geneva to Chamonix offers a gateway to the majestic Mont Blanc, beckoning adventurers with its towering peaks and glacier-carved valleys.

But the journey itself is an integral part of the experience. Each twist and turn unveils breathtaking panoramas of lush meadows, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountain peaks as you make your way into the mountains. Travel to the Alps in summer is more than just a means to an end—it’s a big part of the fun!

Packing for an Alpine Summer Holiday

Packing for summer in the Alps requires some essentials.

Layer Up for Adventures:

When walking in the Alps in summer, you’re dealing with varying elevations and temperatures. So, think layers! Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes for those warm daytime hikes, but also throw in some warmer layers like fleeces or light jackets for cooler mornings and evenings. This way, you’re ready for whatever the mountain weather throws your way during your summer Alps holidays.

 

Footwear Fit for the Trails:

Your feet are your best friend when it comes to exploring the Alps, so treat them right! Invest in sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with good ankle support. Whether you’re trekking along lush meadows or rocky paths, having the right footwear ensures you can stride confidently through your summer family holiday adventures in the French Alps.

Sun Protection Essentials:

Don’t let those glorious Alpine sun rays catch you off guard! Pack essentials like high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield your family from the sun’s strong glare at higher altitudes. Remember, the sun can be sneaky, even on cloudy days, so it’s better to be safe than sorry while enjoying your summer fun in the Alps.

Hydration on the Go:

With all the excitement of exploring and walking in the Alps in summer, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. But trust me, it’s crucial! Carry refillable water bottles for each family member and make sure to top them up whenever you can. The fresh mountain air and stunning vistas will keep you all energized, but staying hydrated ensures you’re ready to conquer every hill and valley during your summer alpine adventures.

Budgeting

Budgeting for an Alpine family holiday involves several factors. Accommodation, transportation, and activities will affect costs. A family of four might spend between €2,000 to €5,000 for a week-long trip, depending on the type of accommodation and activities planned.

Summer in the Alps – Family-Friendly Fun!

A summer family holiday in the Alps offers a wealth of diverse activities and breathtaking landscapes. There’s something for everyone, from hiking and mountain biking to watersports and cultural experiences. Whether you choose Chamonix for its iconic Mont Blanc views or Morzine for its vibrant village life, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Start planning your summer in the Alps today, and don’t miss out on the ultimate alpine adventure for your family!

Book your summer transfer now.

Ski-Lifts offers round-the-clock customer service to assist with transfer-related queries. We have a top-notch network of friendly local transfer suppliers. Whether it’s finding the best dining options or recommending activities, local knowledge can make all the difference to your trip. At Ski Lifts, we take pride in offering this added value to our customers.