{"id":88436,"date":"2025-01-27T12:23:23","date_gmt":"2025-01-27T11:23:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ovonetwork.com\/blog\/?p=88436"},"modified":"2025-03-17T18:07:52","modified_gmt":"2025-03-17T17:07:52","slug":"top-alpine-destinations-summer-holidays","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ovonetwork.com\/blog\/top-alpine-destinations-summer-holidays\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Alpine destinations for your summer holidays"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Every year, the heat drives many guests to seek cooler destinations for their summer holidays. The Alps offer an ideal setting for a summer holiday, with pleasant temperatures, beautiful scenery and outdoor activities for all the family.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here we suggest a number of destinations in the Alps for your next summer holiday and give you some tips on how to prepare properly.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Spend your summer holiday in the Alps<\/h2>\n\n
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\n SEE ALL OUR CHALETS<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Why should you choose the Alps for your summer holiday?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While the heat of the Mediterranean becomes less bearable every year, you\u2019ll enjoy much more pleasant weather<\/strong> in the Alps.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heading to the mountains during the warmer months has the added advatage of being more affordable and less crowded<\/strong> than most popular seaside destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s more, the mountains in summer look very different from those in winter. Far from the traditional image of skiing and snow, the Alps come alive in some surprising ways. The villages offer a packed calendar of events<\/strong>, and the ski lifts stay open to provide access to a massive natural playground<\/strong>\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u00a9 Photo: L.Meyer \u2013 Ch\u00e2tel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Average temperatures in popular European destinations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Global warming has had a significant impact on summer temperatures, particularly around the Mediterranean. So much so that the traditional idea of heading to the south coast to relax is becoming less and less appealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take, for example, the average summer temperatures in four popular European destinations: the Costa del Sol<\/strong>, a holiday region in southern Spain; Crete<\/strong>, an island in southern Greece; Nice<\/strong>, on the C\u00f4te d\u2019Azur; and Chamonix<\/strong>, the famous Alpine resort north of Mont Blanc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Costa del Sol, Spain<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Nice, France<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Crete, Greece<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Chamonix, France<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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As these figures show, Chamonix enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the summer, with a maximum average of 26.2\u00b0C. It\u2019s warmer in Nice, at 27.8\u00b0C; in Crete it can reach 29.5\u00b0C, while the Costa del Sol averages 31\u00b0C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\n HOW TO TRAVEL SUSTAINABLY IN THE ALPS<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

The best places in the Alps to escape the heat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Alps offer an excellent alternative if you\u2019re looking for a heatwave-free summer holiday. To give you a bit of guidance, we\u2019ve selected six resorts that combine authentic character, stunning scenery and a wide range of activities\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ch\u00e2tel: fresh and natural<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The picturesque village of Ch\u00e2tel, close to the Swiss border in the Portes du Soleil, is our favourite summer holiday destination. With its traditional character and natural beauty, it offers a whole range of outdoor activities for all ages and tastes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u00a9 Photo: L.Meyer \u2013 Ch\u00e2tel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why spend your summer holidays in Ch\u00e2tel?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The Portes du Soleil area boasts one of the largest mountain bike areas in Europ<\/strong>e, with 600km of marked trails and five Bikeparks, all accessible with a single lift pass. More than 20 bike-friendly lifts run throughout the summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the village of Ch\u00e2tel, the Forme d\u2019\u00d4 public swimming complex<\/strong> has indoor and outdoor pools with play equipment for children, as well as a wellness pool, steam rooms, saunas and treatment rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Soar through the clouds on the Fantasticable, one of the most impressive zipwires<\/strong> in Europe, which flies 240m over the valley. Lac de Vonnes is the perfect place for a family day out, with picnics and fishing.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Portes du Soleil Multi Pass<\/strong> gives you access to a wide range of activities at reduced rates. It\u2019s on sale all summer at the tourist office, but is also included with bookings for some of our partner chalets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in Ch\u00e2tel: Chalet Igel<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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With its shady covered terrace and a heated outdoor swimming pool available in July and August, Chalet Igel is the ideal place to spend the summer months in the mountains. And if the skies are grey, there\u2019s a games room with table football and board games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll also find a table tennis table and a trampoline in the garden to keep children of all ages entertained. The surrounding area offers many options for hiking and cycling, as well as climbing and paragliding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\n BOOK CHALET IGEL<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Samo\u00ebns: history and relaxation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The pretty, unspoilt village of Samo\u00ebns is an ideal holiday destination if you want to explore the Grand Massif region in summer. Its pretty narrow streets lead to a pedestrianised central square, which has plenty of bars, restaurants and shops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Samo\u00ebns is classed as a \u201cgreen resort\u201d. \u00a9 Office de Tourisme de Samo\u00ebns<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why spend your summer holidays in Samo\u00ebns?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Samo\u00ebns is the only resort in the French Alps to be listed as a historic monument<\/strong>. Stroll in the footsteps of the stonemasons who made the village famous as you follow a guided trail from one statue to the next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The village has been awarded the \u201cAccueil V\u00e9lo\u201d<\/strong> (Cyclists welcome) label for its advice and facilities for cyclists. Several of the region\u2019s road circuits feature regularly in the Tour de France, and the V\u00e9lo Vert Festival, held every year in Samo\u00ebns, is the second biggest mountain bike event in France.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re spending your summer holidays with the family, check out the adventure park in the forest, which offers several treetop assault courses<\/strong> of varying difficulty and height. The Giffre valley also offers several opportunities for rock climbing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many outdoor activities<\/strong> are available in the region, including paragliding from the Plateau des Saix, at an altitude of 1,600m, and rafting on the Giffre river and in the Gorges de Tines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in Samo\u00ebns: Chalet Les Pellys<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Admire the mountain views from the hot tub when you stay at this modern property surrounded by alpine meadows and pine forests. Explore the local flora and fauna from marked trails which start on your doorstep. Despite its wonderful natural setting, the chalet is just a few minutes\u2019 drive from the lifts and 7km from the village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As well as a games room and home cinema, Chalet Les Pellys offers everything you need for a holiday with children, earning it the \u201cCool for Kids\u201d label on our website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Manigod: sunshine and tradition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Just an hour from Geneva and even closer to Annecy, this typical farming village overlooking the Th\u00f4nes valley has a friendly, family atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The fantastic view over the valley from the balcony of one of our partner chalets.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why spend your summer holidays in Manigod?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Fun and tradition combine in the Manigod region, which has a year-round calendar of activities, culture and entertainment \u2013 something for everyone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hike <\/strong>to the Col de la Croix Fry and the Beauregard plateau, home to traditional mountain chalets \u2013 the views of the Aravis, \u00c9tale, Gli\u00e8res and Tournette are spectacular.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the Col de Merdassier, take the trails of the Tour de la T\u00eate de Cabeau to enjoy some of the scenery for which the Alps are famous. You can also explore the historic chapels <\/strong>in the six hamlets that make up the Manigod valley.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, visit one of the region\u2019s cheese farms and discover the secrets of making famous cheeses<\/strong> such as Reblochon, Mont Charvin and Tomme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in Manigod: Chalet Marinaka<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Five-star Chalet Marinaka has all the facilities you need if your group includes children and cyclists.\u00a0 Located halfway between Manigod and the high-altitude resort of La Croix Fry, it can accommodate up to 11 guests in a bright, woodland setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With its picture windows, furnished balcony, garden and outdoor hot tub, you can enjoy the breathtaking views over the valley. This spacious chalet has two kitchens as well as a lounge, a bar area and a TV room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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La Clusaz: nature and family fun<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Long before it became an international winter sports resort, La Clusaz was a farming village proud of its traditions. It has retained its authentic charm, with century-old chalets dotting the village and its surroundings, making every view a picture-postcard setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Reblochon and Crafts Festival in La Clusaz. \u00a9 OT La Clusaz \/ Julie Desnoulez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why spend your summer holidays in La Clusaz?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In La Clusaz, farmers still take their herds to the mountain pasture farms for the summer. And you can buy cheeses, eggs and other traditional products direct from the producers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Plateau des Confins leisure area<\/strong> is the perfect place to spend a summer\u2019s day with the family. There\u2019s a great choice of activities, including a zip line, inflatable games, a trampoline and a slackline.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Aravis water park<\/strong> is another great family outing. Children can let off steam in the pool and on the slide, while adults can relax in the hot tub or enjoy the sauna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And who said sledging was just for the winter? There\u2019s a summer toboggan run<\/strong> in the centre of the village where you can hurtle down 800 metres at top speed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in La Clusaz: Chalet Hollygotty<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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You\u2019ll feel like you\u2019re staying in the heart of nature at this 5-star chalet for eight people. Yet it\u2019s only 2km from the village of La Clusaz.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Its bright dining room seems to invite the Alpine forest in through its large picture windows. The hot tub on the large wooden terrace offers breathtaking views of the \u00c9tale mountain and Beauregard. Chalet Hollygotty also has a table tennis table and a p\u00e9tanque court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\n BOOK CHALET HOLLYGOTTY<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Le Grand-Bornand: tranquility at altitude<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Situated 60km from Mont Blanc and Switzerland, and just 25km from Lake Annecy, this Savoyard village has been awarded the \u201cCommune Touristique\u201d label for its wide range of activities. Its panoramic views of the Aravis mountains are breathtaking all year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Why spend your summer holiday in Le Grand-Bornand?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

With its charming restaurants<\/strong>, traditional market, green pastures and history dating back to the 13th century, Le Grand-Bornand is a fascinating destination at any time of year\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cyclists will be drawn to the area for its legendary climbs<\/strong> and the Col de la Colombi\u00e8re \u2013 a regular feature in the Tour de France. In summer, mountain bikers<\/strong> can hurtle down no fewer than 200km of mountain trails, which are accessible by cable car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pack a picnic and enjoy a day with the family at Lac de la Cour,<\/strong> a turquoise jewel at an altitude of 1,445m, overlooking the Col de la Colombi\u00e8re. It is open for fishing from June to September, with regular releases of brown and rainbow trout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, farming is an integral part of everyday life in this rural village, which boasts no fewer than 55 working farms<\/strong>. Here you can learn how to make Reblochon, the area\u2019s signature cheese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in Le Grand-Bornand: Chalet Tolar<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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With its entertainment and relaxation facilities, this 5-star chalet close to hiking and mountain biking trails is ideal for families. Just a 10-minute walk from the village, it has a large, flat garden with views of mountain pastures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are family bedroom suites, garden furniture with barbecue, a Nordic bath and table tennis. Some rooms also have desks, so you can work remotely in the shadow of the mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Saint-Gervais-les-Bains: elegance and well-being<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Tourists have been flocking to this charming town for many years, attracted by its thermal baths as well as its access to Mont Blanc and the \u00c9vasion Mont-Blanc\u2019s many activities, including hiking trails, outdoor sports and, of course, wellness sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, seen from the Mont Blanc Tramway. \u00a9 Photo: Florian P\u00e9pellin<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why spend your summer holiday in Saint-Gervais?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy a family hike<\/strong> along the 5.7km Tour du Quy trail, open from mid-May to mid-October. It takes you through woods to traditional chalets, with the majestic backdrop of the Bonnant valley along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cyclists<\/strong> can use most of the ski lifts, as well as the Mont-Blanc Express train. Try the locals\u2019 favourite route from the Prarion cable car to Saint-Gervais and Le Fayet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The via ferrata<\/strong> route in the Saint-Gervais thermal park has three levels of difficulty, but be warned \u2013 they are all challenging! You\u2019ll need to be in excellent physical condition and have a head for heights to enjoy this one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why not take it easy and make the most of the resort\u2019s famous thermal waters?<\/strong> Relax your aching muscles in the outdoor or indoor baths, and rid your body of toxins with a session in the sauna or steam room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains: Chalet Beau Caillou<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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This mountain chalet has all the facilities you would expect from a 5-star property, including a home cinema and outdoor swimming pool. Enjoy the mountain views from the hot tub or detox and relax in the sauna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With its wide open spaces, five bedrooms and exquisite views of Mont Blanc, it is particularly suited to two families looking for a holiday in harmony with the mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Summer activities: what is there to do in the Alps?\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To show you that the mountains are just as lively in summer as they are in winter, here is a (non-exhaustive) selection of the activities you can enjoy in the Alps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n