Summer in the Alps

BY - Tim Latimer, 22 August 2019, ARTICLES

Have you ever thought about heading to the Alps in the summertime? Amazingly, most people have yet to realise that there is a stunning, action-packed summer playground right on their doorstep. And what makes it a real winner is the lure of luxury rental accommodation at discount prices.

Although we usually associate them with snow sports, the mountains actually have everything we want from summer holidays too. Sunny weather and idyllic countryside? – check. Plenty of things to do, from sports to fine dining? – check. Privacy, away from the crowds? – check. Relaxing beside the water? – check (at lakes and pools instead of beaches).

Before the invention of winter sports, our aristocratic ancestors enjoyed the invigorating charms of summer in the Alps, and they were definitely onto something. Fortunately for us, there is now a growing number of chic luxury chalets available in the summer months, at a fraction of the peak ski season price. It makes first class luxury a more affordable proposition.

Just think, you have the same team of staff as in the winter, bringing you a glass of bubbly on the sun terrace or chauffering you around town. Equipped with the very latest facilities such as a cinema room or a private gym, these stylish retreats are designed for lavish living.

Alpine regions such as the Portes du Soleil, which encompasses Chatel, Morzine and Les Gets, are highly organised when it comes to the summer season. Here, for example, a multi pass gets you up the mountain on the ski lifts, plus access to tennis courts, tourist trains and more. With mountain bike trails, luxury spas and even glacier skiing on offer, the only question is how much you can pack in to your stay.

Many resorts have invested in all-year round facilities such as the new Aquariaz water park near Morzine, and family attractions such as aerial adventure parks. In Chamonix and Zermatt the spirit of early pioneering mountaineers has been kept alive. Here you can soak up those fascinating legends in the local museums, then enjoy a leisurely lunch in a world-class restaurant. The fact that the Alps are home to numerous excellent vineyards, means that a spot of wine tasting is a must.

Enjoying the mountain trails, on bikes or on foot, is easy when you can take a chairlift or gondola to the top. All you have to do is enjoy the descent. For the truly adventurous, there’s canyoning or paragliding in the buzzing Swiss resort of Verbier, whilst more leisurely pursuits include golf and fishing in the lakes and rivers.

But let’s face it, the most compelling attraction is that in chic mountain resorts, such as Zermattand Verbier, some of the finest luxury chalets are available for summer rental at a fraction of the winter price. Get the timing right and you might also catch a local event such as a music festival, cycle race or food festival.

The bottom line is, if you are planning a family holiday, a celebration or a relaxing getaway with friends, the fragrant meadows and forests of the Alps could be the perfect setting.