Summer in the French Alps: Beyond the Ski Season

Summer changes the rhythm of the French Alps. Snow gives way to meadows and forest paths, terraces become places to linger, and a chalet becomes a base for walking, cycling and unhurried time together. The best itinerary balances mountain ambitions with the interests of your whole group.

Choose a base, then build your days

Courchevel Le Praz offers village character and a lakeside setting. Courchevel 1850 provides another starting point for exploring the mountain. Services and lift openings are seasonal, so check what operates during your proposed stay before choosing accommodation.

Instead of trying to see everything, plan one main outing each day. Keep a flexible day for weather changes and another for simply enjoying your chalet. A short walk, a picnic and an afternoon together can be as memorable as a demanding summit.

Walking: choose the route for the group

Look at distance, ascent, descent, exposure and trail conditions rather than walking time alone. A downhill route after a cable-car ride can still be strenuous. Ask the tourist office or a qualified guide about a route suited to children, limited mobility or mixed fitness levels.

Carry appropriate footwear, water, food, sun protection, warm layers and waterproof clothing. Check the mountain forecast and current local advice before setting off. For unfamiliar high mountain terrain, organise qualified guidance rather than following an unverified route description.

Cycling and other activities

Mountain biking ranges from gentler outings to technical downhill terrain. Choose equipment and routes for your actual ability, and ask rental providers about protective equipment and instruction. Confirm whether a lift carries bicycles before building it into your plans.

Guided activities, including tandem paragliding where available, require advance checks on weather, age, weight and participation conditions. Activity bookings should remain flexible enough to accommodate an operator’s decision about conditions. Never assume an activity is included in a chalet’s rental price.

Lakes, picnics and quieter moments

A mountain lake can be a lovely destination without entering the water. Swimming, fishing and access rules differ between sites, and protected areas may prohibit activities that are allowed elsewhere. Read the signs and check with the relevant local authority. Choose a designated swimming facility if swimming is central to your day.

Take litter away, keep a respectful distance from wildlife and follow local guidance around livestock and dogs. A carefully chosen picnic spot gives everyone time to enjoy the setting without adding another complicated excursion.

Food, villages and a slower afternoon

Leave space for Savoyard food, village walks and seasonal events. Restaurant openings and market calendars vary; check dates rather than assuming a year-round schedule. Discuss dietary needs when booking a meal. If you prefer to dine at home, check kitchen facilities and ask whether a private chef is available as an optional service.

A practical family plan

• Start with a short local walk and time to settle in.
• Alternate active days with quieter ones.
• Confirm children’s age requirements for every organised activity.
• Check transport, parking and the final return lift before departure.
• Keep an indoor option for a wet or stormy day.

Your summer chalet checklist

Review outdoor spaces, sleeping arrangements, wellness facilities and the services included in your chosen property. Do not assume that every chalet has air conditioning, a pool or step-free access. Our luxury chalet guide explains which questions help a group choose well.

Browse the published chalet collection and send your summer dates. Availability is confirmed individually; a winter listing does not automatically establish summer availability. If you are comparing seasons, read our Courchevel skiing guide.

Before you travel

Check Courchevel Tourism for seasonal activities and opening information, and follow the municipality’s lake guidance when visiting Le Praz.