Activities to do in the French Alps

The French Alps are a treasure trove of activities that cater to all kinds of travelers, from adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts to culture seekers and those looking for relaxation.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The French Alps are synonymous with world-class skiing and snowboarding. Some of the most renowned ski resorts include:

• Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Offers some of the most challenging terrains and off-piste opportunities.

• Val d'Isère: Part of the Espace Killy ski area, known for its extensive slopes.

• Courchevel: Known for its luxury and access to Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world.

• Les Deux Alpes: Famous for its vast skiable glacier, offering year-round skiing.

• Morzine and Avoriaz: Part of the Portes du Soleil, one of the largest ski areas in the world.

Hiking and Trekking

The summer season in the French Alps transforms the snowy landscapes into a paradise for hikers and trekkers:

• Tour du Mont Blanc: One of the most famous long-distance treks, circling Mont Blanc and passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

• Écrins National Park: Offers a variety of trails with stunning views, including routes to La Meije and the Barre des Écrins.

• Vanoise National Park: France’s first national park, with well-marked trails and diverse wildlife.

• Aiguille du Midi: Take the cable car and start your hike from the high-altitude station for breathtaking views.

Cycling and Mountain Biking

The French Alps are a cyclist's dream, with routes ranging from leisurely rides to challenging climbs:

• Alpe d'Huez: Famous for its 21 hairpin bends, a legendary climb in the Tour de France.

• Col du Galibier: Another iconic Tour de France climb, offering stunning panoramic views.

• Les Deux Alpes Bike Park: Provides a variety of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced riders.

• Lake Annecy: The scenic loop around the lake is perfect for a relaxing bike ride.

Paragliding

Experience the thrill of flying over the stunning landscapes of the French Alps:

• Chamonix: One of the best spots for paragliding, offering tandem flights with spectacular views of Mont Blanc.

• Annecy: Known for its beautiful lake and surrounding mountains, providing perfect conditions for paragliding.

• Megève: Offers paragliding experiences with breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif.

Water Sports

The French Alps are not just about mountains; there are plenty of water-based activities too:

• Lake Annecy: Known for its clear waters, ideal for swimming, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• White Water Rafting: Rivers like the Isère, Dranse, and Ubaye offer thrilling white-water rafting experiences.

• Canyoning: Descend through gorges and waterfalls in places like Chamonix, Annecy, and Grenoble.

Climbing and Via Ferrata

For those who love vertical adventures, the French Alps provide excellent climbing opportunities:

• Mont Blanc: The ultimate challenge for mountaineers, with several routes to the summit.

• Via Ferrata: Fixed-route climbing paths in areas like La Clusaz, Les Arcs, and Serre Chevalier, offering safe yet thrilling climbs.

• Chamonix: Known for its challenging rock climbing routes and ice climbing in winter.

Cultural and Historical Visits

Explore the rich cultural heritage and historical sites of the French Alps:

• Grenoble: Visit the Bastille Fort and the Musée de Grenoble for art and history.

• Annecy: Wander through the old town, visit the Château d'Annecy, and enjoy the canals and cobblestone streets.

• Briançon: Discover the Vauban Fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Aix-les-Bains: Known for its thermal baths and Belle Époque architecture.

Relaxation and Wellness

Unwind and rejuvenate in the tranquil settings of the French Alps:

• Thermal Spas: Towns like Aix-les-Bains and Saint-Gervais-les-Bains offer therapeutic thermal baths.

• Wellness Retreats: Numerous hotels and resorts provide spa treatments, yoga sessions, and wellness programs.

Winter Sports Beyond Skiing

Enjoy a variety of winter activities in the French Alps:

• Snowshoeing: Explore snow-covered trails in areas like Chamonix, Les Houches, and the Vanoise National Park.

• Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing in places like Megève and La Plagne.

• Ice Skating: Many resorts have ice rinks, such as those in Chamonix and Courchevel.

• Tobogganing: Family-friendly fun on specially designed tracks in resorts like Val Thorens and Les Arcs.

Gastronomy

Savor the culinary delights of the French Alps:

• Savoyard Cuisine: Enjoy local specialties like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette.

• Michelin-Starred Restaurants: Indulge in gourmet dining in places like Courchevel and Megève.

• Local Markets: Explore regional produce and artisanal products in markets throughout the Alpine villages.