Alpine Summer: Our Top 6 Resorts

We’re all well aware of the fun to be had in the Alps during the winter months; by day we shred the slopes, and by night we eat and drink our body weight in cheese and wine and cosy up in our luxury ski chalets, fires roaring!

So why is it that we so often forget about the mountains in the summer? Especially since it is easily just as fun – and certainly just as beautiful. 

Resorts throughout the Alps await you with countless activities to offer and a huge range of beautiful luxury ski chalets to choose from, often with rental rates substantially lower than during the peak winter months. Plenty of them keep some lifts open so that you can access the gnarly mountain biking trails, as well as the scenic hiking paths that have been exposed after a long winter blanketed in snow.

When we think of the Alps, usually the association is..”brrrrrr”. Throughout the glorious summer months though, you can enjoy the fresh mountain air in 20-30 degree sunshine. In other words – yes, you should definitely still pack sun cream!

We’ve picked out the top 6 Alpine resorts to visit during the summer, as well as a luxury ski chalet recommendation in each – time to dust off those hiking boots and buy yet another pair of sunglasses to replace the ones you lost…

1. Morzine

If you’ve ever stood within 10 feet of a mountain bike fanatic, the chances are you will have heard them mention Morzine or the Portes du Soleil. There are so many biking trails to choose from in this area, that all levels and all ages can get in on the cycling fun amongst the stunning mountain scenery.

If you fancy yourself a bit of a pro, the Pass’ Portes du Soleil is a major mountain biking event marking the beginning of the summer season often held at the end of June. Great atmosphere, delicious food and a showcasing of all the latest biker gadgets!

One of the most popular activities whilst on a summer holiday in Morzine, is simply heading out towards one of Morzine’s surrounding lakes where you can enjoy kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming and other water based activities.

If you fancy channelling your inner cowboy, we suggest heading out on horseback, exploring the enthralling meadows and treelines.

When the sun sets, there is still plenty to do in Morzine. Thankfully, many bars and restaurants stay open to welcome you throughout the summer months. They understand the need for a thirst-quenching cold beverage at the end of an adventurous, hot summer day in the Portes du Soleil!

Our luxury ski chalet recommendation: ZEMS Lodge, Morzine

Look no further than Zems Lodge for your luxury ski chalet in Morzine. When you’re not out and about, you’ll most definitely find yourself firmly planted on one of the sun loungers looking out over the panoramic mountain views, jumping in and out of the outdoor plunge pool.

In the evenings, why not eat outside on the decking around the alfresco dining table. Or find out who will be crowned snooker champion upstairs in the bar area!

For any movie fans, treat yourselves to a box of popcorn and curl up in the cinema room with that rom-com you’ve been meaning to watch!

Luxury ski chalet Zems Lodge has absolutely everything you want from a blissful, summery mountain escape.

2. Chamonix

For the proximity to Mont Blanc alone, Chamonix is the resort to visit this summer! Whether you’re a total novice or an adrenaline junkie bouncing from mountain to mountain, there’s climbing, biking, canyoning, hiking and so much more for absolutely everyone!

Or, if your idea of adrenaline fuelled activity is to lie back in a luxuriously comfy sun longer with a chilled glass of Provence Rosé, there’s plenty of wine tasting tours to be enjoyed whilst indulging in the local cheeses & meats of this amazing mountain town.

Whatever your tipple, whatever your activity, you will fall in love with Chamonix! Towered by huge mountains on either side, you have epic views from wherever you are; down in the heat of the valley looking up at the snowy peaks in the distance, it’s a truly unique experience!

With more bars, restaurants and shops than you can shake a stick at, you’ll be forever entertained within the town itself. But, to really get the most out of your trip to Chamonix, we recommend taking the gondola up to Aiguilles du Midi and ‘step into the void’ standing in the suspended glass box over the cliff face! Or go climbing and take on the via ferrata adventures to explore the stunning waterfalls and lakes!

But, most importantly, don’t miss the Bastille Day celebrations on 14th July for parades, fireworks and arguably one of the best days to be in Chamonix.

Our luxury ski chalet recommendation: Chalet Couttet, Chamonix

In those mid-twenties temperatures, after a huge day full of activities, there’s nothing quite like topping it all off by submerging yourself into a cool swimming pool or popping the bubbles on the outdoor hot tub to relax and unwind, truly settling into your luxury chalet holiday.

With an enviable outdoor terrace complete with sun loungers, comfy outdoor furniture and a fabulous alfresco dining & BBQ area, you’ve got the perfect space for a big family get together in your luxury ski chalet.

Even if the kids still have energy after everything Chamonix has to offer, there’s a decked out cinema room with surround sound for a truly immersive move night along with the games room ready to challenge the biggest pool enthusiasts of the group! You’ll never want to leave Chalet Couttet, with a private in-house spa, yoga & treatment space you could easily spend the whole week just pampering amidst the Mont Blanc views!

3. Megeve

Wake up in Megeve in the heart of summer and you may think you’re still dreaming! Known for it’s beautiful scenery, live music, luxury ski chalets and array of outdoor activities, Megeve just might be the luxury summer destination you’ve been looking for.

If you’re a keen golfer, we would strongly recommend packing your clubs and going to the 18-hole Domaine du Mont d’Arbois golf course. A stunning course with surrounding mountain views to distract you from your game!

Megeve is especially perfect for those looking for a moment of tranquillity. You’ll be sure to get your dose of peace and quiet simply by wandering down the cobbled streets along the river, admiring the luxury ski chalets of Megeve, boutique shops and quaint restaurants.

That is not to say that Megeve is always quiet! One of the most popular summer events in the calendar is “Summer Jazz”. Two weekends each summer, Megeve becomes an Alpine New Orleans! Get your dancing shoes on because you’ll be swing dancing in the streets to the sounds of some of the best New Orleans Orchestras in Europe!

Our luxury ski chalet recommendation: Chalet des Sens, Megeve

When the sun is beating down, you’ll be wanting a dip in the luxury ski chalet, Chalet des Sens’ pool with sliding door access to the outdoors. One of the most impressive luxury ski chalets in Megeve, Chalet des Sens ticks every box.

You’ll have to pry yourself away from your morning coffee spot on the balcony in order to go and explore what Megeve has to offer. 

If, however, you decide to stay close to home for the day, you can take your pick of Chalet des Sens’ luxurious facilities. Perhaps you’ll spend hours in the spa area with the steam room, jacuzzi and pool. Or maybe you’ll be wanting to showcase your skills in the games room.

However you envisage whiling away your days in Megeve, the luxury ski chalet, Chalet des Sens caters for all.

4. Zermatt

All year round, Zermatt attracts people from all over the world, and it is easy to see why. For starters, the dramatic views of the Matterhorn will, without a doubt, take your breath away and potentially make your mouth water as you’ll be craving Toblerone almost immediately!

During your stay, you can soak up Zermatt’s culture by attending their annual Folklore Festival where you can enjoy colourful costumes, live music and an abundance of delicious Swiss food and drink. For young children, the large parade through the town will most definitely be a highlight!

For the active holiday-goers, Zermatt offers more than you’ll have time for! You could start your day at the Klein Matterhorn where you can enjoy summer skiing (yes that’s right!). In the afternoon, if you’re still not tired, why not take the Glacier Garden Loop Bike Tour to really take in the scenery and calm atmosphere.

In the evenings, you’ll have countless bars and restaurants to choose from. A range of cuisines will see you enjoying exquisite gastronomical delights throughout your time there. And for those of you who would rather skip the food and go straight to wine, luckily there are over 200 grape varieties in Switzerland so it is well worth a tasting or two!

Our luxury ski chalet recommendation: Chalet les Anges, Zermatt

Award-winning Best Luxury Ski Chalet in the World & in Switzerland year on year, Chalet les Anges is in its own league! Uninterrupted, unrivalled, unbelievable views of the Matterhorn, this luxury ski chalet has balconies, private terraces, fire pits and an outdoor hot tub all taking full advantage of every vantage point!

No one in the group will draw the short straw as every bedroom in this luxury ski chalet boasts stunning views of the Matterhorn, so that guilt-free lazy Sunday morning has just got a whole lot more exciting!

Close to all the action summer in Zermatt offers, the luxury ski chalet Chalet les Anges has everything you want in a luxury holiday and more!

5. Verbier

One thing that sets Verbier apart from the other summer resorts is the Verbier Infinite Pass. It’s literally in the name, the VIP pass gets you everywhere and anywhere you want to be in Verbier. 

Be it sports activities, family experiences or soaking in the steeped culture of the Verbier town, you’ve got plenty of choice when it comes to things to do in Verbier and the VIP gets you into all of it!

With 500km of cross country-trails, you could spend your entire time on a bike if you wanted to. Sneaky tip, you get 50% discount on the price of mountain lifts for cyclists! If you can bike trails in your sleep and you’re looking for something a little more adrenaline inducing, get yourself to the Verbier Bike Park! Even if you’ve never biked before, you can have private coaching to get those wheels turning and popping off those kickers in no time!

Verbier has the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, wellness, culture and exquisite cuisine! 

We’d recommend July to be one of the best times of the year to visit Verbier, as you’ll be sure to catch the Verbier Festival featuring world-class classical musicians and exceptional emerging performers that’ll leave you completely dumbfounded and inspired all in one! There’s even a festival of rock music and raclette cheese called Rocklette! You’ll be coming back year on year for sure. 

Our luxury ski chalet recommendation: Chalet Spa Verbier, Verbier

Booking Chalet Spa Verbier would mean that you get first dibs on the Penthouse Master Suite, and it is worth it! Accessed by a private staircase, panoramic views from your private terrace spanning the entire mountainscape with a fireplace opposite the bed. The ultimate level of privacy and cosiness, you will never want to leave this room! 

Even the air in this chalet has been thought of, with an air management system that ensures fresh hydrated air sweeps through this luxury property bringing you a sound and peaceful sleep! 

The entire living floor opens onto a large decking with a huge BBQ, landscaped private gardens looking out to the trees and stunning mountain views. We haven’t even got to the wellness area yet! If an infinity pool, sauna, massage room and an indoor and an outdoor gym isn’t enough for you, let’s add a fully kitted out games room and not 1 but 2 outdoor hot tubs! 

6. Dolomites

We’re saving the best til last! Possibly the most underrated and under-explored resort to visit in the Summer. It’s all the best things of a luxury holiday mixed into one: incredible wine, unbelievable food, views you’ll be dreaming of for the rest of your life and a culture so steeped in history, you’d only be getting the tip of the iceberg just going for one week!

As with all the summer resorts, every outdoor activity you can think of is possible in the Dolomites. But, the reason it holds the most special place in our hearts is the untouched, stunning scenery that’s just absolutely captivating! Some of the most breath-taking backdrops with boundless green valleys, exquisite waterfalls and secret lakes, you could spend years exploring this vast, beautiful area. 

Sunrise to sunset, the Dolomites is the gift that keeps on giving. Hike up to the Tret alpine Lake to stargaze in some of the clearest skies you’ll experience, you might even spot the Milky Way! One of the most unique experiences to the Dolomites are the hay baths, a unique wellness treatment that originated with the local farmers who would sit in the hay and mountain herbs to soothe muscles, heal ailments and literally soak in the goodness growing in the mountains. 

Pizza, pasta, wine, strudel, speck, cheese and some of the best truffle you will ever try in your life. Dolomites is the resort the visit this Summer. 

Our luxury ski chalet recommendation: Chalet Vilaiet, Ortisei

Totally enveloped in the nature, idyll and tranquillity of the Dolomites, Chalet Vilaiet in Ortisei is ultimate luxury ski chalet to spend your summer in. With captivating views, an enviable wellness centre and food to-die-for, as soon as you click the link below, it’ll be hard to look away without booking!

A spa area beyond your wildest dreams with a steam bath, Finnish sauna, Aquamoon waterfall shower, snow shower, treatment room, high-spec gym and a heated outdoor pool with a counter-current system and huge jets. Every level of wellness has been thought of and expertly placed in this stunning chalet. 

You won’t have to lift a finger, with your private chef preparing breakfast and a multi-course dinner for you everyday with fresh, seasonal ingredients from the luxury ski chalet’s own garden and the local region. Lunch can be prepared for you as well with the option to have cooking classes with your private chef and a sommelier bringing some incredible local wines for wine-tasting in the chalet.

Whichever country and resort tickles your fancy, one thing is for sure, you must head to the mountains this summer!

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