Dream of summer in the Alps. There’s more to these mountains than just snowy pursuits.
Although thousands of people flock to the Alps in winter to sample its snowy delights, there’s still plenty of fun to be had during the summer.
Think cycling instead of skiing, hiking instead of snowshoeing and golf instead of tobogganing. Guests can explore the fantastic trails, dine on delicious cuisine and relax by tranquil lakes.
Whether it be France, Switzerland or Austria, there’s something for everyone and fun to be had by all – plan ahead, get ready to breathe in the sweet-smelling wildflowers and take in the spectacular views.
Megève – France
The French Alpine village of Megève has long been associated with world-class dinning and has an eclectic food scene, unrivalled anywhere in the region. The resort’s rich gastronomic heritage was born out of its agricultural past, with 45 working farms still in operation to this day and an impressive 75 eateries offering a range of cuisine types and catering to just about every budget. Megève’s year-round market is best experienced in the summer, when local food producers and artisans sell all manner of fresh produce, including specialist cheeses, handmade chocolate and fine meats. The jewel in the crown is the resort’s four Michelin-starred restaurants, boasting an unprecedented seven stars between them.
www.megeve.com
Morzine – France
Although the resort of Morzine is less travelled outside of the ski season, it has just as much to offer in the summer as this is the go-to destination for anyone wanting to explore the world class hiking trails of the Portes du Soleil. With around 800 km of signposted routes, holidaymakers can pick and choose hikes to best suit their level of ability, from gentle walking trails for those who prefer to take things easy, to longer more challenging routes for those more active. Expert mountain guides in Morzine can provide all the help and support needed for visitors, meaning all holidaymakers need to worry about is enjoying the incredible Alpine views.
www.morzine-avoriaz.com
Oz enOisans– France
Oz enOisans is a family resort located in the Alped’Huez grand domaine area, which is home to 264 km of mountain biking tracks accessed by nine cable car lifts. Famous for its 21 hairpin turns, which make up the most challenging stage of the Tour de France, there are plenty of sweeping roads to experience, so cycling in the region could not be more exciting. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to try the Oisans Col Series, a free event every Tuesday morning when anyone with two wheels and road cycling experience can explore at their own pace without having to worry about cars. Those completing the ascent during the summer holidays July and August will be greeted by refreshments and stunning panoramic views at the top.
www.oz-en-oisans.com/en
Morgins– Switzerland
A picturesque mountain village located on the Swiss side of the Portes du Soleil, Morgins is the perfect place to relax and unwind during the warm summer months. The small resort is just a stone’s throw from the French border, meaning there is a charming cultural mix of both countries to be found here. For those interested in horse riding, Monika Broder runs the Morgins Equestrian Centre, which is home to beautiful, well-trained horses and ponies to suit any riding ability. For first timers, there is the opportunity to explore the local village on horseback with an expert trainer, while more experienced riders can head into the nearby forests or head up high into the mountains to bask at the epic scenery.
www.regiondentsdumidi.ch/en/region/morgins
Verbier– Switzerland
Verbier is a classic Swiss resort with delightful slate-roofed chalets, perched on a sunny, south-facing plateau at 1,500m offering breath-taking views of the Massif des Combins. During the summer the village and surrounding region is a hot bed for walkers and runners, with 500 km of scenic mountain paths to explore, including 21 new sign posted routes for 2020. As the popularity in trail running has increased across the Alps in recent years amongst experienced and amateur athletes alike, so has the number of specialised excursions dedicated to the sport. Companies like Beeheidi in Verbier offer tailor-made trail outings with a local expert who share their favourite routes, regional knowledge and top Alpine spots to visit along the way.
www.verbier.ch
Kitzbühel – Austria
The beautiful Medieval town of Kitzbühel in the Austrian Tirol is a hive of activity throughout the summer and is widely regarded as the best golfing destination in the region, with clubs operating from early May to mid-October. Home to four courses, including three of championship level, and a further 30 courses in the wider area, Kitzbühel caters to both casual and seasoned players and is fast becoming popular with British golfers in search of an alternative to the more trodden golfing destinations of southern Europe. This summer the superb Kitzbühel Golf Festival hopes to welcome more than 900 players from all corners of the globe, with 12 thrilling tournaments set to take place 21-28 June 2020.
www.kitzbuehel.com
GO THERE
FRANCE: Try a seven-night self-catered stay at Pierre & Vacances’ Residence Le Mont d'Arbois in Megève, in a studio apartment that sleeps two people. EasyJet fly from many regional airports to Geneva.
SWITZERLAND: How about a seven-night self-catered stay at the three-star Hotel Mirabeau in Verbier. You can get return flights from the UK to Geneva with EasyJet.
AUSTRIA: Pamper yourself with a five-night stay in Kitzbühel at the five-star Tennerhof Gourmet & Spa de Charme Hotel. Look for return flights to Munich with Lufthansa.
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