French Alps in the Summer

With its stunning mountain scenery, endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, and charming towns and villages, the French Alps in the summer are a fantastic destination for families seeking a fun and memorable vacation. Kids will love exploring the rugged terrain and experiencing the unique culture and cuisine of the Alps, while parents can relax and take in the breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or a more laid-back escape for your France family holidays, the French Alps are sure to delight the whole family.

Here are what you can expect if you spend the summer in the French Alps:

• Natural beauty: The stunning mountain scenery, including snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and lush forests, provides a beautiful backdrop for a family vacation.
• Outdoor adventure: The French Alps offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, biking, swimming, and more.
• Family-friendly attractions: From amusement parks and zoos to museums and cultural events, plenty of family-friendly attractions keep everyone entertained.
• Charming towns and villages: The French Alps are home to numerous charming towns and villages, each with its unique character and local cuisine.
• Easy accessibility: The region is easily accessible by car, train, or plane, making it a convenient destination for families traveling from near or far.
• Cultural experience: The French Alps offer a unique blend of French and Alpine cultures, providing a rich cultural experience for families to learn and explore.

Things to Do in the French Alps in the Summer With Kids

Here are some things to do in the French Alps in the summer with kids:

1. Hiking: The French Alps offer numerous hiking trails suitable for families, with varying difficulty levels and stunning scenery.
2. Mountain biking: The region has some of Europe’s best mountain biking trails, with kid-friendly routes available.
3. Swimming: There are many crystal-clear lakes and swimming pools for families to enjoy, such as Lake Annecy and Lac de Serre-Ponçon.
4. Adventure parks: The French Alps have a variety of adventure parks with activities such as zip-lining, rope courses, and climbing walls.
5. Paragliding: Older kids and teens can experience the thrill of paragliding with a tandem flight over the mountains.
6. Animal parks: Families can visit animal parks such as Parc Animalier de Merlet, where they can see a range of animals, including ibex, chamois, and marmots.
7. Cultural tours: Families can learn about the history and culture of the region through guided tours of medieval villages, castles, and museums.
8. Summer skiing: Some ski resorts offer summer skiing, where kids can learn to ski or snowboard on the glacier.
9. Water sports: Families can enjoy a range of water sports, such as rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on the rivers and lakes of the region.
10. Local festivals: Summer in the French Alps is also marked by many local festivals and events where families can experience the unique culture and cuisine of the region.

Where to Go in the French Alps With Kids

Here are some great places to visit in the French Alps in the summer with kids:

1. Annecy: Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” this picturesque town on the shores of Lake Annecy is perfect for families to enjoy water sports and beach activities.
2. Chamonix: This famous ski resort also offers plenty of summer activities, such as hiking, paragliding, and mountain biking.
3. Les Deux Alpes: This ski resort transforms into a summer playground, offering activities such as summer skiing, mountain biking, and summer tobogganing.
4. La Clusaz: This charming village offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and swimming, as well as various cultural events and festivals.
5. Serre Chevalier: This family-friendly resort offers hiking, swimming, and adventure parks, as well as beautiful alpine scenery and historic villages.
6. Val d’Isère: Known for its winter sports, this resort also offers summer activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and summer skiing.
7. Vanoise National Park: This stunning national park offers a range of hiking trails suitable for families, as well as the chance to spot wildlife such as ibex, chamois, and marmots.
8. Grenoble: This vibrant city at the foot of the Alps offers a range of family-friendly activities, including museums, parks, and cultural events.
9. Les Gets: This family-oriented resort offers mountain biking, hiking, swimming, and adventure parks, as well as a variety of festivals and events throughout the summer.
10. Aix-les-Bains: This spa town on the shores of Lake Bourget offers a range of water sports, beach activities, and cultural events, as well as nearby hiking and biking trails.

Where to Stay in the French Alps With Kids

There are many family-friendly accommodation options in the French Alps, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Family-friendly hotels: Many hotels in the French Alps offer family rooms and suites, as well as amenities such as swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services.
2. Self-catering apartments: Renting a self-catering apartment or chalet can be a great option for families, providing more space and flexibility and a kitchen to prepare meals.
3. Campsites: Many campsites throughout the French Alps offer family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and organized activities.
4. Mountain refuges: For families who enjoy hiking and camping, staying in a mountain refuge can provide a unique and adventurous experience.
5. Farm stays: Many farms in the French Alps offer farm stays, where families can experience the rural lifestyle and interact with animals.
6. Bed and breakfasts: Staying in a family-run bed and breakfast can provide a more personalized and authentic experience, with local hosts who can offer advice and recommendations.
7. Ski resorts: Some ski resorts offer summer accommodation, providing access to a range of activities and amenities such as swimming pools, adventure parks, and kids’ clubs.
8. Mountain lodges: Many mountain lodges throughout the French Alps offer comfortable and cozy accommodations in beautiful alpine settings.
9. Glamping sites: For families who want a more glamorous camping experience, many glamping sites in the French Alps offer luxurious tents or cabins with amenities such as hot tubs and fire pits.
10. Treehouses: For a unique and adventurous experience, some accommodation providers in the French Alps offer treehouses or other unusual lodging options.

Where to Eat in the French Alps With Kids

The French Alps have a wide range of dining options that cater to families with children. Here are some places to eat in the French Alps with kids:

1. Mountain huts: Many hiking trails in the French Alps lead to mountain huts that offer hearty meals, snacks, and stunning alpine views.
2. Pizzerias: Pizza is a popular dish in the French Alps, and many pizzerias offer kid-friendly options such as margherita and ham and cheese.
3. Cafes and bistros: French cafes and bistros often offer kid-friendly dishes such as croque-monsieur, omelettes, and sandwiches, as well as pastries and ice cream.
4. Crêperies: Sweet and savory crêpes are a popular snack or meal in the French Alps, and many crêperies offer kid-friendly fillings such as Nutella, cheese, and ham.
5. Restaurants with children’s menus: Many restaurants in the French Alps offer children’s menus with smaller portions and simpler dishes such as pasta, burgers, and chicken nuggets.
6. Cheese shops: The French Alps are known for their delicious cheeses, and many cheese shops offer cheese platters and sandwiches that kids will surely enjoy.
7. Bakeries: French bakeries offer a range of delicious pastries, cakes, and bread that make for a sweet treat or picnic lunch.
8. Markets: Many towns and villages in the French Alps have weekly markets that offer fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and other local specialties that families can enjoy as a picnic or snack.
9. Ice cream shops: There are many ice cream shops throughout the French Alps that offer a variety of flavors and toppings, perfect for a sweet treat on a hot summer day.
10. Food trucks and mobile vendors: During summer festivals and events, there are often food trucks and mobile vendors offering a range of tasty and convenient foods for families to enjoy.

What to Wear in the French Alps in the Summer

Here are some general tips:

• Light and breathable clothing for warmer temperatures during the day
• A waterproof and windproof jacket for cooler temperatures and potential rain
• Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers for walking and hiking
• Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for protection against the sun
• Swimwear and a towel for swimming in lakes and pools
• Layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day and in different altitudes
• Insect repellent, as mosquitoes and other insects can be present in some areas

How Long to Stay in the French Alps

How long to stay in the French Alps will depend on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general recommendations:

• If you plan to hike and explore the region, a week to 10 days should be enough time to see some of the highlights and enjoy the alpine scenery.
• If you’re interested in water sports or leisurely activities, such as visiting local markets and enjoying the local cuisine, you could easily spend 2 weeks or more.

1-Week French Alps Summer Itinerary With Family

Here’s a suggested 1-week itinerary for the French Alps in summer with a family:

Day 1: Arrive in Geneva, Switzerland and transfer to Chamonix, France. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming alpine town and taking in views of Mont Blanc.

Day 2: Take a cable car up to Aiguille du Midi for panoramic views of the Alps and glaciers. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to nearby Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps” for its canals and charming old town.

Day 3: Enjoy a day of hiking in the Chamonix Valley, taking in the stunning scenery and fresh mountain air. For a more leisurely option, take the Montenvers train to see the Mer de Glace, one of the largest glaciers in the Alps.

Day 4: Travel to Lake Annecy for a day of swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing on the lakeshore. In the afternoon, explore the town of Annecy further, with its medieval castle and quaint streets.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Les Gets, where you can ride the chairlift up to the summit of Mont Chéry for panoramic views and a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Les Lindarets goat village, where you can see and feed the local goats.

Day 6: Visit the charming alpine town of Megève, where you can enjoy a leisurely day of strolling through the pedestrian streets, visiting local markets, and enjoying the mountain scenery.

Day 7: On your last day, take a leisurely morning in Chamonix to relax and enjoy the town. In the afternoon, take a transfer back to Geneva for your flight home.

How to Get Around the French Alps

Here are some options for getting around the French Alps:

1. Car rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around the French Alps, as it gives you the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. Many major car rental companies have branches in the French Alps, and you can easily pick up a car at airports or train stations.
2. Public transportation: Public transportation in the French Alps is well-developed and affordable, with trains, buses, and cable cars connecting many towns and villages. This is a great option if you want to explore the region without the hassle of driving.
3. Taxis: Taxis are available in many towns and villages in the French Alps and can be a good option for short trips or getting to remote areas that are not served by public transportation.
4. Cycling: Cycling is a popular way to get around the French Alps in the summer months, with many scenic bike routes and mountain trails to explore. You can bring your own bike or rent one from a local shop.
5. Walking: Walking is another popular way to get around the French Alps, with many hiking trails and scenic walking paths throughout the region. You can easily explore nearby towns and villages on foot and take in the stunning mountain scenery along the way.

How Much to Travel to French Alps During Summer

The cost of traveling to the French Alps during the summer months can vary depending on several factors, such as:

1. Time of year: Traveling during peak season (July and August) will generally be more expensive than traveling in the shoulder season (June and September).
2. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation will depend on the type of lodging you choose, from budget-friendly hostels and campsites to luxury hotels and chalets.
3. Transportation: The cost of transportation will depend on your mode of travel, with rental cars and private transfers generally being more expensive than public transportation.
4. Activities: The cost of activities will depend on what you choose to do, from free hiking and swimming to paid adventure sports and cultural tours.

With that said, here are some estimated costs for traveling to the French Alps during the summer months:

• Accommodation: Budget options such as hostels or campsites can start at around €20-€30 per person per night, while mid-range hotels can start at around €50-€100 per night. Luxury hotels and chalets can be more than €200 per night.
• Transportation: A rental car can cost around €50-€100 per day, while public transportation (trains and buses) can cost around €10-€20 per trip. Private transfers can cost €50-€100 per trip.
• Activities: Many outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and picnicking are free, while adventure sports such as paragliding, mountain biking, and rafting can cost around €50-€100 per person per activity. Cultural tours and attractions can cost around €10-€20 per person.