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Top Reasons to Visit Les Gets in August
Les Gets is a traditional Haute-Savoie village with just as much to offer when the snow disappears. In August, the mountains around Les Gets turn green, the lifts carry walkers and mountain bikers rather than skiers, and the village comes alive with events, outdoor activities and summer sunshine.
From spectacular mountain scenery and world-class mountain biking to family-friendly activities and excellent food, Les Gets in August is a great choice for a summer holiday in the French Alps.
Les Gets panorama ©Manon Guenot, OT Les Gets Here are some of the best reasons to visit.
1. Enjoy the mountains without the winter crowds
August is a wonderful time to experience the landscape around Les Gets from a completely different perspective.
The ski slopes are transformed into green mountain pastures filled with wildflowers, while the surrounding forests and high-altitude trails provide plenty of opportunities to get out into the fresh mountain air. With summer lifts operating, you don’t always have to tackle a steep climb to enjoy the best views either.
One of the highlights is Mont Chéry, where walking trails offer impressive views towards Mont Blanc. The Chavannes side of the resort is particularly well suited to families, with gentler paths, mountain pastures and accessible trails.
Whether you want a serious hike or simply a scenic walk followed by lunch on a mountain terrace, August gives you plenty of options.
2. Les Gets is a paradise for mountain bikers
If you love two wheels, Les Gets should be high on your list of Alpine destinations.
The Les Gets BikePark has 128km of marked mountain-bike trails, with routes ranging from flowing trails and fun areas to more technical terrain. The Chavannes side is particularly well known for its jumps and flowing tracks, while Mont Chéry offers a wilder and more technical experience.
And you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy cycling here. There are facilities and trails suitable for different abilities, as well as opportunities for electric mountain biking.
The BikePark is fully operational throughout August, with lifts providing access to the higher trails.
3. See the world’s best riders in action
There is an especially good reason to put August 2026 in your diary.
The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup returns to Les Gets from 20–23 August 2026, bringing some of the world’s best riders to the resort for four days of competition. The programme includes Cross-Country Short Track, Downhill and Cross-Country Olympic events.
Even if you’re not a mountain biker yourself, it’s a spectacular event to watch, with elite riders tackling some of the same terrain that makes Les Gets such a famous cycling destination.
Best of all, spectator access to the event is free.
If you’re looking for a lively time to visit Les Gets this summer, the week of the World Cup is an obvious choice.
4. There’s plenty for families to do
Les Gets works particularly well for a family summer holiday because you don’t need to be an experienced hiker, cyclist or adrenaline-seeker to enjoy the mountains.
You can take the lifts into the mountains, follow easy walking trails, explore the countryside, enjoy family cycling or spend time around Lac des Écoles.
For something a little more energetic, the lake is also home to the Wibit inflatable water park, with slides, climbing walls, trampolines and other obstacles on the water.
The summer programme also includes family activities, creative workshops, entertainment and events, so there is usually something to do when you want a break from the mountains.
Another attraction is Alta Lumina – an evening illuminated walk through the forest. Alta Lumina is the first of its kind in Europe and is a multi-sensory fairytale world for all the family.
5. Explore the wider Portes du Soleil
Staying in Les Gets also gives you access to the enormous Portes du Soleil area, stretching across the French-Swiss border.
The summer Multi Pass provides access to more than 70 activities across the 12 Portes du Soleil resorts, including selected lifts, swimming pools, mountain lakes, mini golf, climbing facilities, museums and other attractions.
That makes Les Gets a particularly good base if you want to explore beyond one resort during your holiday.
You could spend one day hiking around Les Gets, head over to another Portes du Soleil village the next day, and then spend a quieter afternoon enjoying the village itself.
6. Enjoy spectacular Alpine views
One of the best things about a summer holiday in Les Gets is that you can reach some extraordinary viewpoints without necessarily having to undertake a challenging hike.
The summer lifts make it easy to gain altitude, while trails around Mont Chéry and the Chavannes area provide access to panoramic views across the surrounding mountains.
Mont Chéry is particularly impressive, with walking routes overlooking the Mont Blanc range. The Crêtes du Mont-Chéry trail, for example, follows the ridgeline with expansive mountain views along the way.
For those who prefer admiring the scenery to walking through it, there are also plenty of mountain restaurants and terraces where you can sit back and take in the view.
7. It’s not just about mountain biking
Although Les Gets has an international reputation for cycling, you don’t have to get on a bike to enjoy a summer holiday here.
Golfers can play the 18-hole Golf des Gets, a mountain course surrounded by forests and mountain scenery with views towards Mont Blanc. There is also a driving range, putting green, teaching facilities and a restaurant, making it an option for golfers of different abilities.
You can also enjoy activities such as swimming, climbing, walking, sightseeing and exploring the traditional villages of the wider Portes du Soleil.
This variety makes Les Gets a good option for groups where everyone doesn’t necessarily want to spend the day doing the same thing.
Photo courtesy of Lesgets.golf 8. The village has a lively summer atmosphere
Les Gets isn’t simply a place to sleep after a day in the mountains. The village itself is a big part of its appeal.
Throughout the summer there are concerts, shows, workshops, family activities, cultural events and food-focused experiences. The 2026 summer programme includes events such as the Pottery Festival, Fête du Vieux Village, Gourmet Rally and the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.
That means you can combine an active day in the mountains with an evening enjoying the restaurants, bars and atmosphere in the village.
9. August is perfect for an Alpine food holiday
After a day spent hiking or cycling, there’s nothing better than sitting down to a long lunch with a view.
The Haute-Savoie is famous for its cheeses and traditional mountain cuisine, and summer is a great time to enjoy local specialities without necessarily needing the hearty winter dishes that dominate après-ski menus.
Look out for local cheeses, charcuterie, tartiflette and other Savoyard specialities, as well as fresh summer produce and regional dishes served on sunny terraces.
And if you are staying in a chalet, having your own kitchen and outdoor space makes it easy to enjoy relaxed meals together after a day exploring the mountains.
10. You can make your August holiday as active – or relaxed – as you like
Perhaps the biggest reason to visit Les Gets in August is its flexibility.
You can spend the morning mountain biking, stop for lunch overlooking Mont Blanc and then head back to the village for a swim. Or take the lift to Mont Chéry, enjoy a leisurely walk and spend the afternoon relaxing on a terrace.
Families can mix outdoor adventures with activities around the lake, while couples might prefer hiking, golf, mountain restaurants and exploring the surrounding villages.
And for serious cyclists, August 2026 offers the added excitement of watching the world’s best riders compete in the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.
In other words, you don’t have to choose between an active mountain holiday and a relaxing summer escape. In Les Gets, you can have both.
Why visit Les Gets in August?
Les Gets offers a very different Alpine experience in summer, but that doesn’t mean it loses the qualities that make it such a popular winter destination.
Instead of snow-covered pistes, you’ll find flower-filled mountain pastures and forest trails. Instead of ski lifts carrying winter sports enthusiasts, you’ll see walkers and cyclists heading up the mountain. And instead of quiet winter evenings, you’ll find a lively village full of restaurants, events and summer activities.
For mountain biking, hiking, families, food, spectacular scenery and a genuine Alpine village atmosphere, Les Gets is one of the best places to experience the French Alps in August.
Find your accommodation options in Les Gets!
Are you interested in visiting the Alps in summer? Find out about summer events in Chamonix and Morzine too.
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Top Reasons to Visit Chamonix in August
When people think of Chamonix, it’s often snow-covered peaks, legendary ski slopes and Mont Blanc that spring to mind. But once summer arrives, the valley transforms into one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain destinations. Towering glaciers, flower-filled alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes and an exciting programme of events make August the perfect time to experience Chamonix from a completely different perspective.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, family fun or simply a chance to unwind in breathtaking surroundings, Chamonix offers an unforgettable summer escape.
This is part of our series exploring the Alps beyond the ski season, showcasing why these iconic mountain resorts deserve a place on your holiday shortlist all year round.
Chamonix_Centre-OT_Chamonix-Mont-Blanc_CM Why Visit Chamonix in August?
August is one of the liveliest months of the year in Chamonix. The streets are filled with hikers, climbers, trail runners and visitors from around the world, while cafés, restaurants and terraces buzz with life from morning until late evening.
Warm daytime temperatures make it ideal for exploring, yet the mountain air remains refreshingly cool. Cable cars and mountain railways are in full operation, giving visitors easy access to some of the most breathtaking scenery anywhere in the Alps.
Whether you want an active holiday or simply wish to soak up the atmosphere beneath Western Europe’s highest mountain, August is hard to beat.
Summer Events Worth Planning Around
August brings an exciting calendar of sporting and cultural events to the Chamonix Valley.
Les Aigles du Léman at Prarion, 5 August and 19 August
Twice during August, the summit of Prarion above Les Houches hosts a free birds of prey demonstration with Les Aigles du Léman. Running from 11.30am to 4.30pm on each date, it is a good reason to take the Prarion lift and spend a few hours up high — the views across to Mont Blanc are reason enough on their own. Demonstrations are subject to favourable weather, so check conditions before heading up.
Les Houches Village Festival, 2 August
A convivial day in Les Houches with guided hikes, family entertainment and a giant community feast shared between locals and visitors. Relaxed and genuinely local in spirit.
Nuit des Ours, 5 to 12 August
Over in Vallorcine, the Nuit des Ours is a week of live performance, music, theatre and debate in the open air, culminating in a nocturnal procession with performances under the stars. One of the more unusual events in the valley’s calendar and worth the short train ride from Chamonix.
Fête des Guides, 12 to 15 August
The Fête des Guides has been marking the relationship between Chamonix and its mountain guides since 1924. This year’s celebration has a particular focus: a special evening at Les Gaillands dedicated to women in mountaineering, marking the 150th anniversary of the first winter ascent of Mont Blanc by Isabella Straton and her guide Jean Charlet on 31 January 1876. The wider festivities run across all four days, with the party at Les Gaillands lake a highlight for families and evenings out alike.
The Fête des Guides also coincides with the fete nationale of L’Assomption on 15th August.
OT_Chamonix-Mont-Blanc_SA UTMB, 24 to 30 August
The week that transforms Chamonix. The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc brings the world’s best trail runners to the valley for eight races across the week, culminating in the main event: 176km, 10,000m of positive elevation gain, through France, Italy and Switzerland. Even if you are not running, the atmosphere in town during UTMB week is extraordinary. The start and finish on the streets of Chamonix, runners coming in at all hours, crowds gathered at the finish line in the early hours of the morning. It is one of those events worth experiencing at least once, even as a spectator.
Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc – OT_Chamonix Throughout August you’ll also find open-air concerts, local markets, exhibitions and family entertainment taking place across the valley.
Experience the Mountains Up Close
Few places offer easier access to high mountain scenery than Chamonix.
The spectacular Aiguille du Midi cable car transports visitors to an altitude of 3,842 metres, where panoramic views stretch across France, Switzerland and Italy. Nearby, the famous Step Into the Void glass skybox provides one of Europe’s most memorable viewpoints.
For a completely different experience, board the charming Montenvers Railway to visit the Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier, and explore the fascinating ice cave carved deep within the glacier itself.
There are also countless walking routes suitable for every ability, from gentle riverside strolls to full-day hikes through alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers.
A Paradise for Outdoor Adventure
Chamonix has long been synonymous with adventure.
In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering, paragliding, mountain biking, rafting, canyoning and via ferrata. Experienced mountaineers continue to arrive from around the world to tackle Mont Blanc, while first-time visitors can enjoy guided walks and beginner-friendly activities throughout the valley.
If a more relaxed holiday is your style, Chamonix also offers excellent shopping, art galleries, spas and some of the finest mountain restaurants in the French Alps.
Mountain Biking-Les Houches-Yucca_Films Perfect for Families
Chamonix isn’t just for experienced climbers.
Families will find plenty to enjoy, including adventure parks, scenic gondola rides, wildlife walks, swimming pools and easy hiking trails suitable for younger children. Summer tobogganing, climbing walls and picnic spots make it easy to fill every day with a new adventure.
Many restaurants and cafés welcome families, while the pedestrianised town centre is perfect for exploring at a leisurely pace.
Explore Beyond Chamonix
Chamonix makes an excellent base for discovering the surrounding Alps.
Take a scenic drive through the Mont Blanc Tunnel into Italy, explore the charming Swiss town of Martigny, visit nearby Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and partake in the healing waters, or enjoy a relaxing day by one of the region’s beautiful alpine lakes.
With three countries within easy reach, every day offers the opportunity for a different adventure.
Planning Your Chamonix Summer Holiday
August is one of the busiest months in Chamonix, particularly during the UTMB and around the Assumption Day holiday, so booking accommodation well in advance is highly recommended.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury chalet with mountain views, a cosy apartment in the town centre or a welcoming family hotel, Chamonix offers accommodation to suit every style of holiday.
While Chamonix’s reputation as a world-class ski destination is well deserved, summer reveals another side of this iconic Alpine town. From spectacular mountain scenery and legendary outdoor adventures to fascinating events and vibrant village life, August is the perfect time to discover why Chamonix continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
Discover Chamonix Accommodation
Planning a summer holiday to the Alps? Browse our selection of chalets, apartments and hotels in Chamonix and experience one of Europe’s most iconic mountain destinations.
Statue_et_coucher_de_soleil_a_Chamonix-Frank_Bienewald Interested in summer alpine holidays? See our Morzine in August and Les Gets in August articles.
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Morzine in August: One of the Best Summer Destinations in the French Alps
Spectacular Lake Montriond near Morzine School’s out and if you’re looking for a summer holiday destination with a difference try Morzine. For many people, the Alps are synonymous with skiing. Once the snow melts, the mountains take on a completely different character, with hiking trails, mountain biking, crystal-clear lakes and lively villages making them an excellent place to visit for a summer break. Few resorts showcase this transformation better than Morzine…
Whether you’re looking for an active holiday, a family getaway or simply somewhere to unwind in spectacular surroundings, Morzine offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and authentic Alpine charm.
This is the first in our series exploring some of the Alps’ most vibrant summer destinations, proving that mountain resorts have just as much to offer long after the ski season ends.
Why Visit Morzine in August?
Unlike many mountain villages that slow down once winter is over, Morzine comes alive throughout the summer. The cafés open up onto sunny, flower-filled terraces, mountain lifts carry walkers and bikers high into the Portes du Soleil, and visitors fill the village streets enjoying the relaxed Alpine atmosphere.
With comfortable daytime temperatures, fresh mountain air and stunning scenery in every direction, it’s easy to see why more people are choosing the Alps for a summer holiday.
Summer Events Worth Planning Around
August is packed with events that add even more energy to the resort.
Families visiting early in the month can enjoy Royaume des Marmots, a festival dedicated to children with free entertainment, games, workshops and performances throughout the village.
The spectacular Trail des Hauts-Forts showcases some of the most dramatic running routes in the Portes du Soleil. This year’s event takes place on 8th August.
15 August, Assumption Day, is a fete nationale. You’ll find the village especially lively, with holidaymakers filling restaurants, markets and cafés as France enjoys one of the highlights of the summer.
More Than Just Events
Even without the festivals and competitions, Morzine offers enough activities to fill an entire holiday.
The Portes du Soleil lift network opens up hundreds of kilometres of walking trails, from gentle family strolls to full-day mountain hikes with breathtaking panoramic views. Mountain restaurants serve long lunches overlooking the peaks, while alpine lakes provide the perfect place to cool off after a day outdoors.
Adventure seekers can try white-water rafting, canyoning, climbing, via ferrata or paragliding, while those looking for a slower pace can browse the weekly market, enjoy local Savoyard cuisine or simply relax with a coffee in the village square.
One of Europe’s Premier Mountain Bike Destinations
Morzine has earned a worldwide reputation as one of Europe’s great mountain biking destinations.
Whether you’re an experienced downhill rider, an enduro enthusiast or trying mountain biking for the first time, the resort offers an incredible variety of trails, bike parks and lift-accessed terrain. Equipment hire, coaching and guided rides make it easy for visitors of all abilities to experience the mountains on two wheels.
If you’re staying in Morzine during August, you’re also perfectly placed to experience one of the biggest events on the mountain biking calendar. Just a few minutes away in neighbouring Les Gets, the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup brings together the world’s best riders for an unforgettable weekend of elite racing and festival atmosphere. The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Les Gets takes place from August 20th – 23rd, 2026.
Even if you don’t ride yourself, the passion for cycling is infectious during the summer months, particularly when the World Cup arrives in town.
A Fantastic Choice for Families
Morzine is equally popular with families, thanks to its safe village atmosphere and huge range of activities for children.
Adventure parks, swimming pools, pony rides, mini golf, playgrounds, scenic chairlift rides and nearby Lac de Montriond provide plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. Combined with family-friendly restaurants and a busy programme of summer entertainment, it’s easy to understand why many families return year after year.
Explore the Northern Alps
Morzine also makes an excellent base for exploring the wider region.
Spend a day discovering the car-free streets of Avoriaz, visit neighbouring Les Gets, enjoy watersports on Lake Geneva, or wander through the medieval village of Yvoire. Chamonix and Mont Blanc are also within easy reach, making an unforgettable day trip into the heart of the Alps.
Planning Your Morzine Summer Holiday
August is one of the busiest months in Morzine, booking accommodation in advance is recommended, particularly during major sporting events.
Whether you’re searching for a traditional chalet, a stylish apartment or a family-friendly hotel, Morzine offers something for every type of traveller.
Most visitors know Morzine as one of the Alps’ great ski resorts, but summer reveals an equally exciting destination filled with outdoor adventure, spectacular scenery and a vibrant calendar of events. If you’ve only ever considered visiting in winter, August is the perfect time to discover a completely different side of this beautiful Alpine village.
Discover Morzine Accommodation
Planning a late summer escape? Browse our selection of chalets, apartments and hotels in Morzine and start exploring everything this beautiful Alpine resort has to offer.
Interested in more alpine summer destinations? See Chamonix Events in August. Check out what’s going on in Les Gets this August!
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Summer Holidays in the Alps: A Different Kind of Mountain Escape
Think of the Alps as snow-covered peaks, ski lifts, and cosy winter chalets? Summer holidays in the Alps offer something completely different—and for many, something even better. The feel is different, more relaxed, but there’s an enormous choice of activities and options to keep the whole family entertained.
A Different Kind of Mountain Escape
Summer swaps ski runs for green pastures, frozen landscapes for warm sunshine, and busy resorts for a more relaxed pace. Destinations like Morzine and Chamonix come alive in summer, with open lifts, walking trails and a vibrant but easy-going atmosphere.
At the heart of it all is the scenery. Peaks like Mont Blanc dominate the skyline, while valleys open into wildflower meadows and quiet villages. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down—without ever feeling bored.
Spectacular Lake Montriond near Morzine Lakes: The Alps’ Summer Advantage
One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is just how many lakes are within easy reach. Lake Annecy is often described as one of Europe’s cleanest lakes, with clear, warm water ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking.
Lake Annecy and the town of Annecy – known as the Venice of the Alps The real advantage of summer holidays in the Alps is variety. Within an hour or two, you can experience completely different settings—from lively lakeside spots to quieter, more secluded corners.
Outdoor Activities Without the Pressure
You don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy the Alps in summer—but if you are, you’ll have plenty of options. Hiking, biking on the alpine roads or mountain trails, rafting and paragliding are all on offer.
What makes it different from other destinations is the flexibility. One day you can explore mountain trails; the next, relax by the lake or enjoy a long lunch with a view. Summer holidays in the Alps are as active—or as relaxed—as you want them to be.
Enjoy the relaxed cafe culture – summer in the Alps Ideal for Families, Couples and Groups
Summer in the Alps works for almost everyone:
- Families appreciate the safe environment and range of activities
- Couples enjoy the scenery and slower pace
- Groups benefit from space, shared experiences and large chalet options
And with fewer crowds than winter, it’s easier to find your own space.
Better Value, Same Scenery
Another reason to consider summer holidays in the Alps is value. Prices are often significantly lower than during peak ski season, but the scenery and overall experience are just as impressive—arguably more so.
A Holiday That Leaves You Recharged
If you’re used to coming back from a holiday feeling like you need another one, the Alps offer something different. The combination of fresh air, activity and space tends to leave people genuinely recharged.
It’s not just a break—it’s a reset.
If you’ve only ever thought of the Alps as a winter destination, summer is well worth discovering. And once you’ve experienced it, you may not go back to peak-season crowds again.
Check out our summer holiday offers!
Find out more about Chamonix in August
See what goes on in Morzine in August.
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The Chalets Direct Solutions Room: Your Shortcut to the Perfect Ski Holiday
Planning a ski holiday should be exciting — picturing fresh mountain air, snowy peaks, and cosy evenings by the fire. Choosing your ski holiday is a big decision – there are a lot of moving parts and getting the right combination can be time consuming.
That’s where the Chalets Direct Solutions Room can change everything.
What is the Solutions Room?
The Solutions Room is a unique feature of Chalets Direct. It’s a great alternative way to find your ski holiday. You post what you’re looking for — your dates, group size, budget, and any special requirements.
Once your request is live, chalet and apartment owners who fit your criteria can get in touch directly with their best offers.
It flips the booking process on its head: instead of chasing availability, the right options find you.
Why use it?
- Tailored to you: receive offers that match your exact needs.
- Direct contact: speak straight to the people who run the chalets and know the resort.
- Ideal for groups: makes organising multi-family or group trips much easier.
- Great for last minute getaways: when you’ve seen there’s just been a big dump of snow and you want to know what’s available for next weekend.
How does it work?
- Head to the Solutions Room.
- Fill in a quick form with your holiday details and preferences.
- Relax and wait while chalet owners and operators respond.
- Browse the offers, ask questions, and choose the one that suits you best.
It’s that simple — and there’s no obligation to book if nothing feels right.
Who is it for?
The Solutions Room works for everyone:
- Families who want a hassle-free booking process.
- Groups of friends trying to balance different budgets and priorities.
- Skiers and snowboarders hunting for something special, whether it’s ski-in/ski-out, a hot tub, or a catered chalet experience.
- Last minute bookers who fancy a quick getaway and want to find some last minute availability.
Ready to try it?
Finding your dream ski holiday doesn’t have to be complicated. The Chalets Direct Solutions Room puts you in control, saves you time, and makes planning simple.
👉 Post your request today and let the mountains come to you!
Find the Joy in Val d’Isere – or Méribel, or Verbier, or Cervinia, or Serre Chevalier, or St Anton, or Chamonix, or ….
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Why the mountains are a great summer destination too!
The ski season is almost over – there's a few resorts, such as Val d'Isere, which are extending their winter for a little longer due to bumper April snowfall, but the majority have closed or will be closing in the next few days.
But did you know that the mountains are a fantastic summer destination too? Here's just a few reasons why:-
Amazing scenery: the Alps offer stunning natural beauty with majestic mountain peaks, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes. This makes it a great destination for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. Most resorts have dedicated hiking and mountain biking trails. It's incredible how different a resort you know and love in the winter will look when the snow has gone.
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Great temperatures: summers are typically mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. This makes it a comfortable climate for outdoor activities such as golf, tennis, climbing, paragliding etc. With the extreme heatwaves that occurred across Europe last year, resorts at altitude provided a welcome respite. It's best to be prepared for the odd rainy day however, as the weather can be more unpredictable than your average beach town.
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Lots to do: we've already mentioned hiking, cycling, mountain biking, but there's also swimming, rock climbing, white water rafting, and more. You'll find lots of cultural and historical attractions too, such as museums, castles, and picturesque villages in the local areas – so a car can certainly be a bonus for visiting some of the most beautiful towns dotted around the Alps. Alpine towns and villages also preserve and celebrate local heritage – with charming, picturesque markets and summer festivals.
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Delicious cuisine: The alpine region is known for its delicious cuisine, which features hearty dishes like cheese fondue, raclette, and schnitzel. The region is also famous for its cheeses, wines, and beers.
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Relaxation and wellness: with the growth of summer tourism, the mountains are also a great destination for those looking for relaxation and wellness. There are many spas and wellness centres in the region that offer massages, saunas, and other treatments.
Overall, the Alps offer a great combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, delicious cuisine, and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for summer holidays. So what are you waiting for? Check out our range of summer holidays here! -
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Ski Life Stories: The Free Range Chalet, Bagneres de Luchon, French Pyrenees
This week's Ski Life Story takes us from the Alps to the Pyrenees. Geoff and Victoria's journey took them from the UK to the Alps and then to Bagneres de Luchon in the French Pyrenees, where they now call home!
"A long time ago in a galaxy far, far, far away we were both practising civil engineers. We have always been big lovers of the outdoors and our particular passion was skiing. For many years we considered working a ski season, but it wasn't until the summer of 2010, when Victoria was made redundant, that we felt we finally had the opportunity to work "just one" ski season before "returning to real life". That was over 10 years ago and we're still here!
We both had connections in Morzine, so that was where we started our search for jobs as chalet hosts. It was only after we'd accepted jobs that we realised quite how big Morzine is! Luckily after a dozen or so interviews we were offered positions hosting a chalet alongside a professional chef. We were amongst the oldest chalet hosts in the town (we were in our early 30's in 2011), but loved the experience to the fullest. From a work perspective we learnt an awful lot about standards, food and professionalism in that exhausting season.It turns out that we'd loved it so much, that when we were offered a 2nd season with the same company we jumped at the chance. This time around we did all of the food prep, cooking and serving alongside the other chalet duties and we had a floating 3rd pair of hands to help out. It was part way through this 2nd season when we started to think that we'd quite like to do this for ourselves, and having more responsibility opened our eyes to the amount of spare time we'd have to focus on the admin in the background.
The next summer, we were offered roles hosting a chalet for a walking & hiking company in the Pyrenees. This was our first experience of the French Pyrenees, although we'd both been to Andorra regularly. We were immediately struck by the differences between the two mountain ranges, and slowly began to realise that if we were going to start our own business it would be here in the Pyrenees.
Fast forward 2 years, via a winter in the Pyrenees (one of the best ski seasons we've ever had), and another year in Samoens, and we'd bought our Villa in Bagneres de Luchon. A whole 12 months of renovation followed.We employed a builder, a plumber and an electrician to handle the major stuff, but we tackled everything else ourselves. This was a complete change to our chalet host lifestyle. We only really took off the decorating clothes on a Friday evening to visit a local bar for a couple of beers and a takeaway pizza. We opened The Free Range Chalet in December 2015.
We love our vocations (it's not a job, it's a lifestyle choice!) and seeing our guests have the very best time. Holidays are precious and we will do everything we can to make sure that you have a hassle and stress free break with The Free Range Chalet. We are your hosts, chefs, chauffeurs and much more (or less if you prefer) during your stay and we look forward to welcoming you into our home.
The highlights of the last 6 years are simply all of the guests we meet and introduce to the lesser known Pyrenees Mountains. We've met some truly wonderful friends along the way. But the lowlight has to be our trusty old minibus dying on the very first Saturday of the February Half-Term 3 years ago with the entire weekly shopping in the back. Our proudest moment has to be winning a Small Business award from Theo Paphitis (which led to us meeting him) back in the summer of 2018.
I'm not sure there's a great deal we'd change along the way. We're lucky to have found something we love to do together and we're conscious that we're the only people who can make decisions for the business – so once we're committed you have to stick with it whether it turns out to be the best decision or not.We decided early on that we wanted to do this for ourselves, and set about learning the trade, realising that not only could we learn from the things that were done really well, but crucially, that we could avoid things that make guests feel uncomfortable or frustrated."
Villa Gracieuse is the beautiful Free Range Chalet, located in the spa town of Bagneres de Luchon and surrounded by dramatic peaks. It's a fabulous base for exploring the Pyrenees in both winter and summer! Check it out on Chalets Direct!
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Traditional Coq Au Vin – recipe from Bon Appetit
If you're planning an alpine getaway to the Morzine, Les Gets, Samoens area this summer, or next winter, and don't want the hassle of shopping, cooking or always eating out, then there is a great solution available.
Bon Appetit is a gourmet frozen meal service which will deliver superbly-cooked dishes to your door, so all you have to do is heat and eat. You can order online in advance of your holiday or even order when you're in resort for next day delivery. The menu is broad and mouthwatering, with dishes ranging from traditional Tartiflette to Thai Green Curry. Bon Appetit is the brainchild of Martin Clare, a professional chef from London who has always had a love for the mountains. Now based in the Northern French Alps, Martin can combine his two loves of skiing and creating wonderful food.
Martin has shared with us here the recipe for one of his favourite dishes – a traditional Coq au Vin with a twist. As the British summer is on hold for a few days, why not give it a try!
Coq au Vin
- 1 bottle of Burgundy or pinot noir,
- 6 chicken legs in two,
- 1 small leek in rounds,
- 2 sticks of celery in sticks,
- 2 carrots in thick long slices,
- 3 springs of thyme,
- 3 bay leaves
Marinate all the above overnight in a saucepan.
Remove legs from liquor and lightly sauté in butter till golden brown, pop back into the pan with 350ml chicken stock, 1 pinch of pepper and a good pinch of salt.
Take the saucepan to the heat, bring to a simmer and let it tick over for about 45 mins.
You will now have time to sauté 250g sliced button mushrooms, 24ish baby white pearl onions, 200g lardons.
When the leg meat is nearly falling from the bone, remove from liquor and set aside.
Lightly thicken with 30g of cornflour.
Chefs tip: add 2 beef OXO cubes, a dash of balsamic vinegar and 30g good very dark chocolate, this will cut the acidity and give it richness and depth of flavour.
Add back the chicken, mushrooms, onions and lardons. Bring back to the heat for 5 mins, finish with roughly chopped parsley and serve from the pot. Serve with mash or dauphinoise and green beans, Dijon on the side. Bon Appetit!
Click through for more information about Bon Appetit where you will see full details of their menu and how to order. -
Try a Summer Yoga and Reiki Retreat in the Alps
Feel like you need to press the pause button? Look no further! Icebreaker chalets is working in collaboration with Yoga in Nature to offer 5 transformational summer Yoga, Sound and Reiki Retreats in their flagship alpine accommodation which sits at an altitude of 1250 metres in beautiful Les Coches, part of the magnificent Paradiski valley surrounded by mountains, forest and stunning views including Mont Blanc in the distance.
Imagine waking up and beginning your day with Meditation and an invigorating Morning Yoga practice amidst breathtaking views before breakfast. Days will be filled with optional activities including taking a chairlift or hiking through the forest to the mountain tops, swimming in a crystal-clear alpine lake, mountain biking, horse riding, white water rafting, visiting a local market or just chilling out at the chalet in the reading room, jacuzzi or heading out for coffee in the sunshine. An optional Lecture will be available on afternoons, and evenings will be spent enjoying a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating Yin Yoga practice before dinner and followed by a Reiki Drumming or Sound Bath before bed.
Unplug from the stresses of everyday life and detach from outside responsibilities to give yourself some well-deserved ‘you time’. You really won’t have to lift a finger as there is also a professional chef who will prepare nutritious and creative vegetarian meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The programmes have been carefully designed to embrace the eight limbs of yoga through meditation, yoga, self-enquiry, yogic philosophy, reiki and sound healing. They will also incorporate aspects of ancient wisdom, Chinese medicine, the Chakra system, Reiki and Sound to nurture, heal and enhance your experience and yogic journey leaving you feeling fully refreshed, deeply relaxed and rejuvenated. The aim of each retreat is to offer you an unforgettable experience, and the information and tools that you can take back home to enrich your life.
Click below links for detailed information about each yoga retreat
http://yogainnature.co.uk/advanceyourashtanga/
http://yogainnature.co.uk/theartofbalance/
http://yogainnature.co.uk/unplugandrecharge/
http://yogainnature.co.uk/fullmoonandflow/
http://yogainnature.co.uk/chakra-awakening/
…. and take a look at Icebreaker Chalets too!
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Verbier and the Swiss 4 Valleys – an Infinite Playground for summer and ski holidays!
Summer Holidays in Verbier with the VIP pass
Verbier has kicked off its summer season and has launched the excellent VIP pass for all summer holidaymakers!
The VIP – "Verbier Infinite Playground" – pass gives you free entry or great discounts on the top attractions that the Swiss 4 Valleys has to offer. For example mountain bikers get 50% off mountain lifts and for hikers all mountain lifts in the Verbier – Savoleyres – La Tzoumaz area are free – including the ascent up to Mont-Fort!
There's also a lot of other advantages to having the VIP pass. You also get free entry to the lovely outdoor swimming pool, the local postal bus network is free, and many of the attractions or activities are either free or have 50% off! What's more the pass itself is free – you can either get it from your accommodation supplier or from the Tourist Office itself.
Alpenchalets can offer you some beautiful holiday chalets in La Tzoumaz, a cosy, family-friendly village in the 4 Valleys area – see the charming Chalet Michelle as an example. La Tzoumaz is situated high above the Rhone Valley amid vast Alpine pastures facing the Bernese Alps. The area is a great destination for both winter and summer. There are the famous mountain peaks, turquoise mountain lakes, flowering meadows and picturesque villages – a perfect spot for all sorts of activities.
Walking
The area of La Tzoumaz has approx. 150 km of marked walking trails. There are easy walks without major differences in altitude along the "Suonen" (historic irrigation channels), e. g. Bisse de Vex. Take the path from La Tzoumaz up to pass Croix de Coeur (2.174 m) where you have an amazing view over the Rhone Valley and to the 4000 m high peaks of Combins mountains. From Savoleyres continue to Pierre Avoi (2.473 m), a rock high above the valley with stunning views over the mountains to the Mont Blanc area.Mountainbike
There are 500 km of trails and signposted tours, e.g. the "Tour du Mont Fort“ or the tour from La Tzoumaz to Verbier that is suitable for families. You can take your bike up in the cable car. New bike park in La Tzoumaz.Other summer activities
Climbing, paragliding high above Verbier, tennis, golf course (in Verbier) and fishing, e.g. at Lacs des Vaux. Thermal spa resorts in Saillons-les-Bains, Ovronnaz and Leukerbad, also offering a wide range of wellness treatments.Excursions
La Tzoumaz is situated close to Italy and France and offers a couple of interesting excursions: The Aletsch glacier declared as UNESCO world heritage site; Zermatt with its exceptional view of the Matterhorn; the Mont Blanc-Express train to Chamonix; the historic center of Sion, the capital of the Valais; Lake Geneva; via the Grand St. Bernhard Pass to the Italian Aosta Valley.Both winter and summer Alpenchalets has some excellent options! Don't forget to check them out!
