Would you like to experience a family mountain holiday this summer? In the Alps, there is a wide choice of resorts available. But with so many options, making a decision can sometimes be tricky. To help you out, here is our selection of family-friendly summer resorts. Our picks focus on 5 “human-scale” summer family resorts in the Alps, ideal for those seeking authentic villages and a peaceful atmosphere.
Our selection of family resorts
Le Grand-Bornand, in the Aravis massif
This resort, nestled in the heart of the Aravis massif in Haute-Savoie, has established itself as one of the best summer family resorts. A holiday at Le Grand-Bornand can be both sporty and cultural, set in an authentic mountain village. With the Pass Grand-Bo, you get unlimited access to the Grand-Bornand aquatic centre and the ski lifts, perfect for wonderful day excursions even with young children.
Passe Montagne team favourite: the traditional festival «Au Bonheur des Mômes» (Children's Delight), held every summer in Le Grand-Bornand. This youth-focused event showcases many facets of the performing arts: theatre, circus, music, dance, puppetry…
Aussois, in the Vanoise massif
The resort of Aussois was one of the first to be awarded the «Famille Plus» (Family Plus) label, a certification for family-friendly resorts in both summer and winter. This village has managed to keep its heritage very much alive. It is also the starting point for many family hikes that will allow you to discover the flora and fauna of the Vanoise national park. With the Pass'activités, you get unlimited access to the Grand Jeu chairlift and the leisure centre swimming pool.
Passe Montagne team favourite: from the Plan d'Amont dam, take the hiking trail that leads to the welcoming Dent Parrachée and Fond d'Aussois refuges and start collecting refuge stamps. 59 Alpine refuges, members of the Refuges en Famille scheme, are equipped with their own unique stamps to collect.
Montgenèvre, in the Cerces massif
The village of Montgenèvre is located close to the Clarée valley, arguably one of the most beautiful valleys in the Alps. A popular ski resort in winter, Montgenèvre transforms into a warm and traditional village in summer. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate and 300 days of sunshine per year, a summer visit to Montgenèvre guarantees pleasant weather to enjoy the pure mountain air and landscapes found only at altitude. Discover the MTB/pedestrian pass offer at Montgenèvre.
Passe Montagne team favourite: from Montgenèvre, you can very easily pop over to Italy. Italian refuges and guesthouses are renowned throughout the Alps for the quality of their cuisine. And from Montgenèvre, it's doable on foot! On market day, the Italian Piedmont side offers a real change of scenery.
Arêches-Beaufort, in the Beaufortain massif
The village of Arêches-Beaufort is the ideal starting point for hikes with views of Mont Blanc (with or without a pedestrian pass – everyone can choose according to their preferences). Its traditional architecture has earned it the nickname of the “little French Tyrol”. It is a very pleasant village in summer.
Passe Montagne team favourite: whether or not you're interested in hydroelectric power, the Roselend dam is one of the wonders of the Alps – well worth a visit. Take the opportunity to have a picnic by the magnificent Roselend lake, accompanied by the local unmissable cheese: the beaufort.
Vaujany, in the Grandes Rousses massif
The sunny village of Vaujany has managed to preserve its old-world charm. There are no imposing tower blocks here as you often see in the larger ski resorts. In this unspoilt setting, you can relax and recharge as a family while trying out a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. Mountain biking fans in particular will be able to easily access the Alpe d'Huez ski domain.pour les fans de VTT qui pourront rejoindre facilement le domaine de l’Alpe d’Huez.
Passe Montagne team favourite: we recommend the via ferrata that runs alongside the mythical Cascade de la Fare waterfall. The majestic setting and closeness to the water leaves nobody indifferent. Two options are available: either the easier route for a first experience, or the slightly more challenging route if you are used to it.
Summer family resorts are now a top choice for holidays. Whether it's to enjoy the cool mountain air in July or because the mountains offer an incredible playground for all tastes, mountain holidays are no longer just about skiing.
Tips bonus :
to fully enjoy the mountains in summer, don't forget the pedestrian or MTB passes available at our partner resorts. They allow you to easily reach the summits, high-altitude panoramas and various trails without effort, whether for a family stroll or a more active day out. An excellent way to discover the mountains from a different perspective and multiply activities throughout your stay.
