Summer mountain activities!
The mountains offer a wealth of activities in every season, not just in winter. All it takes is the right gear to enjoy the pleasures and joys of the mountains in summer!
Once the snow has melted at altitude, nature awakens beneath every step we take in the mountains. The valleys and forests come back to life in full colour. It's time to think hiking, trail and mountain biking! Many of our mountain ranges are exceptional playgrounds to be cherished without restraint.
The Beaufortain massif
A land of mountain pastures between lake and mountain, the Beaufortain is an ideal destination for a family holiday or a weekend with friends. It brings together 4 villages, including the resort village of
Arêches-Beaufort, with Mont-Blanc as a backdrop. This four-season destination perched between 700 and 3,000 metres altitude will delight young and old alike.
On foot along every trail
Nearly 500 km of marked trails await hikers in summer at Arêches-Beaufort. And there's something for every taste and level. Varying in length and difficulty, some routes are accessible from the village, others via one of the 2 chairlifts running in summer. The resort also offers free nature shuttles to help you explore all the riches of this beautiful area.
And for seasoned hikers, the
Tour du Beaufortain is a 105 km route with 4,500 m of positive elevation gain. It allows you to fully take in the landscapes of the Beaufortain. Completed in 6 to 8 days, this great hiking itinerary is followed throughout the summer by trek enthusiasts.
On two wheels, everywhere
The Beaufortain resort of Arêches is also seen as a paradise for two-wheel enthusiasts. By mountain bike or bicycle, with or without electric assistance, beautiful mountain routes are made accessible through marked itineraries. Indeed, whether you prefer enduro or cross-country mountain biking, take one of 41 routes covering 225 km of marked trails.
For those who prefer road cycling or gravel, head out to discover legendary mountain passes or one of the loops suited to all levels. All set against a breathtaking backdrop.
The Beaufortain in summer also offers other great activities. The sounds of abundant water will set the pace for paddle and canoe enthusiasts, as well as hikers heading to the mythical Pierra Menta.
The Vanoise massif
Made up of glaciers and summits approaching 4,000 m in altitude, the Vanoise massif is defined as an inner high-mountain range. It is within this preserved and well-maintained natural environment that hikers and trail runners, families and friends, discover a wonderful playground.
One of the most famous villages in the Vanoise natural park is Tignes. Nestled between lake and mountains, this resort is best known in winter. However, summer activities are plentiful!
The trail paradise between lakes and mountains
Tignes and its natural lake also draw visitors in summer. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this resort has been hosting a mountain race for nearly six years now:
Cimalp Tignes Trail. With 3 adult courses and 3 children's courses, the whole family can join in!
- For children: courses of 800 m, 1.7 km or 3 km
- For adults: courses of 13 km, 27 km, 46 km
With a panoramic view over the finest surrounding summits, lakes and glaciers, explore the beautiful trails of Tignes.
The kingdom of the finest sensations
La Vanoise is packed with natural spaces. Each massif has its own character and together they contribute to the protection and promotion of the natural, cultural and scenic heritage.
The diversity of landscapes allows for a wide range of summer activities. Paragliding, climbing, via ferrata, as well as rafting and whitewater swimming guided by professionals are all available! Thrill-seekers will find their fill.
Other fun activities in both indoor and outdoor settings are also on offer, as in Tignes. Skateboarding, laser tag, laser biathlon, archery and trampolining — the choice is yours!
In the mountains, there are also other
eco-friendly activities to do!
Photos: Cyrille Quintard | DR
