Do you want to enjoy the fresh air and recharge your batteries? With their stunning backdrop of majestic peaks, high-altitude lakes and unspoilt villages, the Alps are the ideal destination for an adrenalin-fuelled active holiday, whatever the season. Whether youโre looking for physical challenges or moments of relaxation in cosy chalets, every day in the mountains promises its share of thrills.
If youโre into hiking, mountain biking, climbing, water sports or other activities, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about organising a sporting break in the mountains, so you can let go of the daily grind and refocus on yourself.
Choose your chalet in the Alps
Discover the magic of the mountains between April and Octoberโฆ
Magnificent scenery and pleasant temperatures, for a more affordable holiday without the crowdsโฆ
Away from the crowds, close to what you need
From April to October, the mountains offer a peaceful and unspoilt setting far from the winter crowds. Itโs the ideal time to take in the breathtaking views and breathe in the pure mountain air.
Away from the hustle and bustle, you can savour the silence, the beauty of the scenery and the pleasure of reconnecting with nature. Off-season prices are also much lower, whether for accommodation, activities or even restaurants.
Good to know: Many resorts offer package deals for a whole range of activities at affordable prices, to encourage people to visit the Alps outside the winter season.
Ever-changing views that are always magnificent
The mountains are an ever-changing environment, revealing a new scene every season.
In spring, the flowering meadows are covered in colour, while in summer, the lush green mountain pastures invite you to hike under clear skies. Then comes autumn, when the forests turn gold and bronze.
You may spot marmots, chamois and golden eagles on your way, making each of your walks unique and every hike a sensational journey to the heart of nature.
Get moving, breathe and have fun: our favourite activities
On foot, on skis or on a bike, get some exercise and experience nature at full speedโฆ
Hiking in the mountains โ even with children
Hiking in the mountains gives you the chance to go at your own pace, while you take in the marvellous scenery. Away from the resorts, each step brings you closer to rural idylls and a unique sense of freedom.
Itโs also a great family activity, as many of the trails in the Alps are accessible to children. With waterfalls, forests and encounters with wildlife, hiking becomes a fun and rewarding adventure for young and old.
Itโs worth noting that snow often falls as early as October in high-altitude resorts. This is the perfect time to discover nature on cross-country skis.
Pedalling to the rhythm of the passes and paths
Mountain biking and cycling combine sport, nature and thrills. Road cyclists enjoy the legendary mountain passes and breathtaking views, while mountain bikers enjoy the technical trails through the forest.
Whether youโre looking for a physical challenge or a leisurely ride, thereโs plenty of choice on offer in the Alps. The clean air, stunning scenery and freedom to cycle at your own pace make mountain biking a particularly rewarding experience.
Good to know: Some of our partner chalets provide all the equipment you need to look after your bike. Look for the โCycling Friendlyโ and โAccueil vรฉloโ labels on our search page.
Enjoy via ferrata, canyoning, paraglidingโฆ
The mountains, and in particular the Alps, offer a wide range of activities for thrill-seekers.
Via ferrata offers a dizzying adventure between sky and rock. Canyoning offers refreshing descents through waterfalls and natural pools, while paragliding lets you fly over valleys with breathtaking views.
Zip wires, rock climbing, bungee jumpingโฆ There are plenty of other activities that combine nature and adrenaline. So make sure you find out beforehand whatโs available in your resort.
Slow down the pace with a yoga session in the peaks
Away from the stresses of everyday life, take a deep breath of pure mountain air, soothed by birdsong and the gentle breeze. The calming setting of the Alps encourages you to focus, relax and reconnect with yourself.
The altitude encourages oxygenation, stimulates circulation and enhances concentration. Every breath becomes deeper, every movement more conscious, and the mind is freed more easily from stress and tension.
Good to know: Some of our partner chalets include a private gym, so you can work out in the comfort of your holiday home.
Cool off in the lakes and rivers
Water is an essential element in the Alps, and it promises some great sporting adventures surrounded by sublime scenery. Lakes Annecy, Le Bourget and Serre-Ponรงon all offer water sports include paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing.
On the rivers, you can enjoy the thrills of rafting, canyoning or hydrospeed. Whether youโre going alone or with family or friends, water sports in the mountains add a refreshing touch to your active holiday.
The best places in the Alps to enjoy mountain life
Beautiful routes to discover the mountains from every angleโฆ
Walks around Annecy, Lake Geneva, and the Beaufortainโฆ
Hiking in the Alps is a guarantee of varied and spectacular scenery. Each trail combines beauty, tranquillity and complete immersion in nature.
Near Annecy, Le Semnoz offers stunning views of the lake and Mont Blanc. Around Lake Geneva, the Grammont trail and the walks above รvian offer splendid panoramic views. In the Beaufortain, the tour of Lac de Roselend and the climb up to the Col du Joly are enchanting, with their mountain pastures in bloom in spring and their impressive views.
Mountain bike circuits in the Aravis
The Aravis mountain range offers dozens of signposted trails for bikers of all abilities, particularly around La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand.
In La Clusaz, there are more than 135km of trails to choose from, ranging from panoramic circuits to off-road routes. In Le Grand-Bornand, we recommend the Balcon des Aravis circuit, which offers a 24km loop with a 795m ascent, ideal for admiring the peaks while challenging yourself.
Good to know: Some ski lifts operate throughout the summer, allowing you to take your bikes to higher altitudes.
Panoramic viewing points you wonโt want to miss
Your sporting holiday in the Alps is guaranteed to be marked by breathtaking panoramas, where every effort is rewarded by the raw beauty of the mountains. Here are some of our favourites:
- The Aiguille du Midi (Chamonix, Haute-Savoie): an exceptional view of the Mont-Blanc massif and the Vallรฉe Blanche, at an altitude of over 3,800m.
- Lac Blanc (Aiguilles Rouges massif, Haute-Savoie): accessible by hiking, this lake offers a magnificent reflection of Mont Blanc.
- Mont Viso from the Pain de Sucre (Queyras, Hautes-Alpes): spectacular views of the Southern Alps and the iconic silhouette of Mont Viso.
- The Col de la Vanoise (Savoie): a natural lookout point in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, surrounded by glaciers.
- The Pic de lโAigle from Lac de Serre-Ponรงon (Hautes-Alpes): a birdโs-eye view of the lake and surrounding peaks, perfect at sunset.
- La Tournette (Annecy, Haute-Savoie): an iconic peak overlooking Lake Annecy, with 360ยฐ views of the Aravis mountains and Mont Blanc.
- The summit of La Meije (รcrins, Hautes-Alpes): one for mountaineers, a unique panorama of the glaciers and jagged peaks of the รcrins massif.
- La dent de Crolles (Chartreuse, Isรจre): accessible by hikers, it dominates the Grรฉsivaudan valley with spectacular views over Belledonne and Vercors.
Where to stay for your active holiday
Fully-equipped, comfortable accommodation for a revitalising sports holidayโฆ
A cosy chalet where you can relax after your efforts
For a sporting break in the Alps, thereโs nothing better than accommodation that combines modern comfort with rustic authenticity. After an intense day in the mountains, treat yourself to the comfort of a cosy chalet, with easy access to the regionโs activities.
With its warm wooden decor, a roaring fire and views of the peaks, itโs the perfect place to relax, recharge your batteries and spend some quality time together. A real haven where itโs good to meet up after an active day, to savour a well-deserved rest.
Example of OVO Network accommodation:
Chalet LโOtavalo, Manigod
Chalet LโOtavalo, just 1km from Manigod, is proof that rustic charm doesnโt have to come at the expense of comfort. This former farmhouse includes an outdoor hot tub, furnished terraces, a traditional wood-burning stove and stunning views over the valley.
It sleeps up to eight people in four comfortable bedrooms, and also accepts pets. In fine weather, everyone can get together in the large garden, where youโll find swings and a slide.
A chalet with a spa, swimming pool or gardenโฆ the last word in active comfort
Many rental chalets offer facilities that go far beyond soothing decor and comfortable furniture, such as a hot tub, sauna, gym, swimming pool, landscaped garden and games room.
These little extras turn the end of your day into a real moment of well-being. Itโs possible to combine exertion and comfort, promising a stay thatโs as rejuvenating as it is sporty.
Example of OVO Network accommodation:
Chalet Le Mousqueton, La Clusaz
Just 3km from La Clusaz, Chalet Le Mousqueton has a 5-star rating, thanks in particular to its top-of-the-range facilities. It has a fully-equipped gym, a swimming spa, hot tub, sauna and even a treatment room.
Up to 12 guests can enjoy a sporty break in the comfort of this charming chalet. Cyclists will appreciate the bike racks in a secure room. You can also take advantage of the spacious terrace for your yoga sessions.
Practicalities: organising a stress-free sporting holiday
Well-organised holidays, so you can head off to the mountains with peace of mindโฆ
The best seasons for your activities
The Alps are a fantastic playground for sporting activities all year round, with each season offering its own treasures for exercise, rejuvenation and unique sensations.
In spring and summer, hiking, mountain biking, climbing and paragliding are all great fun for outdoor enthusiasts. The calm of autumn is ideal for trail running, yoga or forest walks. And in winter, of course, itโs time for skiing, snowboarding and other snow sports.
Advice on equipment and checklist
Proper equipment is essential for enjoying the mountains safely. Donโt forget to bring any specific equipment you already own. Otherwise, youโll be able to rent it on site, or it will be provided by the company organising your activities.
Make sure to bring sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate technical clothing, a waterproof jacket and a lightweight yet practical backpack, as well as sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a water bottle to help you stay hydrated.
Apps to help you plan your excursions
Even if the goal is to disconnect and recharge, some apps can help make your active getaway organised, inspiring and safe.
Among the most popular, Komoot is ideal for planning outdoor adventures, while Visorando and AllTrails are great for following hiking or mountain biking routes. PeakFinder lets you identify surrounding mountain peaks. The Mรฉtรฉo-France Ski & Neige app is useful for anticipating mountain weather โ crucial for your safety.
Several resorts and areas (like Le Grand-Bornand, Megรจve, Les 3 Vallรฉes, Grand Massif, etc.) have also developed their own apps, offering real-time updates on activities, routes, weather, events, and available services.
You now have all the information you need to enjoy your next active holiday in the Alps. All thatโs left to do is pack your bags and book your accommodation!
Find your dream chalet
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