If you are of the view that mountains and the alps are for just winter holidays – then perhaps you might want to think again. In fact, if you talk to anyone who has spent a few years living in ski resorts, and here at Chalet Ski Holidays it is a large section of the Chalet Ski Holidays office, you may be surprised to find that many will vote for summer over the winter as their favourite time. Having been based in the mountains they are, or have been, of course avid skiers and / or snowboarders, and therefore the fact that many would now opt for the summer over the winter, it is high praise indeed. 

Dispelling Myths

I guess in terms of helping understand why so many love their summer in the alps, it is probably important to dispel a few myths. The two that standout are the weather and the fact that that their wont be anything to do.

Weather

Many expect it to be cold and some even believe it will snow even in July and August. Whilst mountain weather can change quickly, typically, due to the fact that the Alps is a long way south, it is quite the opposite. Temperatures are generally around 25 to 30 degrees and in August can soar even higher. This said, occasionally, and no more than other parts of Europe in similar longitude and latitude, storms will come through. When they do they are often dramatic, but in most cases clear quickly afterwards.

Will it snow – sadly for those hoping it will, it is highly unlucky low down (only once in ten years from our experience in July and it then quickly changed back) – but it may higher up (3,000m or higher). On the rare occasions the latter occurs, the alpine green with white shiny snow capped peaks is a mesmerising picture.

There Will Not Be Anything To Do

We would guess this myth resides from the belief that ski resorts only open in winter, and with the odd exception aside, this is so far from the reality. Many maybe surprised to know that places such as Chamonix and Zermatt have more visitors per day in the summer than they do in the winter, with Wengen, Murren, and some of the smaller Austrian resorts being closer to a 50:50 summer : winter ratio. It is therefore their busiest periods.

Budding desinations such as Morzine, Les Gets and Tignes are fast readjusting the balance too with mountain biking a particular favourite for the first two. 

Why We Love The Summer In The Alps

Love is a strong word, but as I write this whilst enjoying a long weekend in the French Alps, you only have to look up and out the window to understand why it is adored. The scenery is without doubt, simply breath taking and the regular commute to this summer oasis is worth it just for the views alone. But that is just the tip of the iceberg, there is so much to do!

Summer Activities

The obvious one is walking, and just getting up in to the hills, looking down in to the valley, the lakes you come across, the wildlife (deer and chamois in particular), the fountain or stream, not forgetting majestic peaks, make this a must for any healthy visitor. Then there is the mountain restaurant that you least expect to see halfway up the mountain, a glass of wine and fine mountain dishes and / or salads in the sunshine, it is an unforgettable experience.

Back down the hills and in the resorts, most have an array of great restaurants, mountain and boutique shops, museums and much more to explore. Many provide painting courses, or just pitch and paint on your own, and whether at your summer chalet, in the town, or sat in the hills, reading is so much more relaxing in fresh alpine air and with stunning scenery around you.

And if you are worried about missing the beach, don’t be, many resorts have picturesque lakes with beaches just a short walk or drive away, and with a backdrop to die for, they really will eclipse anything you have seen by the seaside.

Energetic and Adrenalin Junkies Amongst Us

And for those that can not sit still on the beach, what have you been waiting for? The alps really are your paradise. Choose from swimming, golf, tennis, climbing, cycling, mountain biking, bungee jumps, paragliding, luge runs*, via ferata* (secured scrambling and rock climbing high adventure trails), tree adventure parks, ice skating*, and much more. Play in the day and relax in your favourite bars, restaurants or chalet terrace at night!

But don’t just take our word for it, contact our Chalet Ski Holidays team today and make this summer holiday different and fun for all!

*Selected resorts – please check with Chalet Ski holidays consultants for more information.