Châtel ski resort is based on the border between France and Switzerland in the heart of the Portes du Soleil. However, this charming village has much more to offer than snowsports alone. Châtel offers a huge range of activities to do in the Alps including:
- Zip wiring
- Walking
- Ice Skating
- Biking
- Paragliding
And more!
Read on to discover our top 10 things to do in Châtel ski resort…
1. Fly like a bird
Soar through the valley above Châtel on the Fantasticable! These zip wires travel a total of 2.5km over the hamlet of Plaine-Dranse, at a height of 240m. It’s open to anyone between the weights of 35-120kg, and is open summer or winter. In the winter, your skis will follow you down in a transport bag so that you can carry on skiing. You’ll be strapped in a lying position, and if you don’t fancy doing it alone, a friend can join you!
2. A day at the lake
The Lac de Vonnes, close to the centre of Châtel, is a lovely place for a stroll and a picnic. There’s a playground for children, and fishing is permitted- perfect for those looking to try summer activities in the Alps!
3. Make a splash
Swim for pleasure or exercise at the beautiful Forme d’O aquatic centre, when you stay at your Châtel chalet. There are indoor and outdoor pools, as well as an ‘ocean area’ with waterfalls, spa facilities, gym and relaxation area. Facials and body treatments can also be booked at the Spa Océane.
Take a break from skiing and make a splash at Forme d’O aquatic centre!
©Y.Perrier – Châtel ski resort
4. Smugglers’ stories
Families looking for some educational activities to do in the Alps should pay a visit to La Vieille Douane. Here you can learn all about the smuggling that went on in this cross-border area. With eye-witness accounts, pictures and documents- this is a great option for a rainy day!
5. Take to the skies
Discover the Abondance Valley from above when you try paragliding with qualified instructors. The Discovery Flight, designed for beginners, is a tandem flight with an instructor, and lasts about 10-12 minutes. The Great Flight starts higher and lasts about 20-40 minutes. During, you’ll see the Cornettes de Bise, Mont de Grange, Mont Blanc and the Swiss Alps. The Thermal Flight uses warm air currents to keep you flying that bit longer. However, you’ll need some experience for this one. Visit the website for more details.
Discover our selection of properties in Châtel
6. Biking challenge
Biking is a great option for families who want to try summer activities in the Alps. Châtel’s Bike Park has about 20 downhill trails of varying difficulty. There are also several fun zones, including a kids’ zone, a slopestyle zone and a live zone. A map of bike trails in the Châtel area is available from the tourist office. If you’re looking to rent a bikes- including an electric one, these can be rented locally.
Is biking is on your list of summer activities in the Alps? If so, read our 5 great cycling routes in the French Alps!
7. Movie night
Two cinemas in Châtel ski resort offer films in French and English – Le Chamois and Le Morclan 2000. This is the perfect option for a relaxing activity after a long day on the slopes!
8. Take to the ice
Have a break from skiing and take the kids to the ice rink in the Place d’Eglise. Sessions last an hour, and single and double-blade skates are available to hire, as are helmets for children. Similarly, families can also use walkers and sled chairs, so children of all ages can get on to the rink! Make sure to dress up warm and don’t forget to take your gloves!
9. See the sights
In summer, the sightseeing train is a great way to explore the village and its surroundings when you first arrive in Châtel.
Enjoy a trip around the village and past some wonderful farms, architecture and countryside. Head to the tourist office to book your tickets!
Alternatively, a family walk is just one of the great summer activities in the Alps you can try. It’s not always easy to keep the kids interested on a walk! However, these themed trails will give them something extra to get involved in. These include:
- A water trail from Lac de Vonnes
- The Rivari fun trail, including puzzles for younger children and a trail where you can learn about mountain birds.
Find out more about the trails here. Are you keen to try new walks as one of your summer activities in the Alps? If so, check out our blog on walking holidays in the Alps!
10. Visit a farm
Visit La Ferme de la Barbossine and see how the wonderful local Abondance cheese is made! You can taste it, and buy some to take back for lunch at your self-catered ski chalet. In summer, the farm also provides snacks and dinners, using local produce.
With all these activities, plus fantastic places to eat, markets to visit and shops to browse, you won’t be short of things to do upon your next visit to Châtel.
Don’t forget to follow @ovonetwork and use the hashtag #ovonetwork, to have your photos from Châtel ski resort featured on our social media!
