We've put together a list of some of the most unique activities that you can take part in in the French Alps (that aren't mountain biking or hiking!) - from white water rafting to axe throwing and helicopter flights. You won't be short of amazing experiences in the Alps this summer!
Helicopter Rides in Tignes
Have you ever fancied seeing the mountains from the skies? In Tignes you can do just that! You've no doubt seen the mountains from many viewpoints before, but possibly never above. Get a birdseye view of the Espace Killy's and Three Valleys' lush greenery and lakes, as well as the surrounding nature reserves. With a choice of 10, 30 or 60 minute flights, it's a great way to see the mountains with friends and family, and experience something you've never experienced before!
Axe Throwing in Les Menuires
Whilst enjoyed inside during the winter, this sport gets taken outside during the summer months in Les Menuires. You don't have to be a lumberjack to throw axes here, but you do have to be 16 years old min. A unique activity to enjoy with friends, but great fun for all; a bit like darts or archery with its bullseye center, axe throwing involves hurling axes at wooden targets. A fun way to relieve stress or bond with your friends, it's certain to unleash your inner lumberjack.
Giant Zipwire in Serre Chevalier
Between the Grande Serre (2491m) and the Grade Alpe (2193m) lies Serre Chevalier's Giant Zipline. You can reach new heights and enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the Ecrins National Park and the surrounding mountains. With a 1100m descent, you can travel alone or as a duo, and reach speeds of over 100km per hour! Some of our ski experts experienced it for themselves last summer and they had nothing but great things to say!
Hannah, one of our ski experts
Hiking with donkeys in Val Cenis
In the beautiful resort of Val Cenis, try a different method of hiking and take a walk with Myrtille and Caramel. These two donkeys, and their accompanying guide, with show you the beauty of hiking within the Haute Maurienne Vanoise. They'll even carry your bags for you whilst you're walking - they're used to trailing up and down the mountain trails, so do try and keep up with them!
White Water Rafting in Les Arcs
Catch the funicular down from Les Arcs and discover the thrill of white water sports in the Isere river that runs through Bourg St Maurice. An unmissable activity that will expand your limits and unleash the joy that is white water rafting! A great activity for the whole family, you'll be taught the basics and shadowed by a dedicated guide, who will teach you all the tips and tricks to tackle the natural river obstacles. Bring your teamwork skills with you - you'll definitely be needing them!
Other resorts that you can enjoy white water rafting in : Tignes, Val Cenis, Samoëns
Disc Golf in Samoëns
In the heart of the Leisure Basin of the Lakes aux Dames, near Samoèns, you'll find a course comprised of 9 to 18 baskets. Armed with a frisbee, your task is to complete the course and get your frisbee into every basket. Much like golf, but without the club and ball, you have to get into the basket within the minimum number of throws possible. Great for all the family - we hope your aim is good otherwise you'll be chasing your frisbee around!
Via Ferrata in Vaujany
Via Ferrata literally means 'iron way' in Italian, which makes sense, as the activity itself is made up of metal cables, iron pins and footholds that snake their way up the mountainside. There are two main types of via ferrata: fun routes that are easier and great for beginners, and routes that are harder, where the only way is from A to B, often with steep climb sections and harder obstacles. Overall it can be likened to a mountain gym, and isn't too far off the treetop adventures that you might find in the UK.
Popular across France, there are many Via Ferratas to choose from in and around the resorts that we have at Peak Retreats. Within the resort of Vaujany, you'll find two via ferrata routes - one slightly easier roue that snakes around La Fare waterfall via bridges, names 'Passerelles', and the other that runs parallel to the waterfall itself, aptly named 'The Waterfall Route' and quite obviously the harder of the two. A great day's activity to enjoy, you could even try both within your stay in resort - starting with the easier of the two first of course!
Other resorts with Via Ferrata's : Tignes, La Clusaz, Chamrousse, Val d'Isère, Peisey Vallandry, Areches Beaufort, Samoëns and many more - it would be good to check if the resort you're visiting has one nearby!!
There are some great activities that can be enjoyed in the French Alps during the summer, we've only covered a few in this blog but we highly recommend you check out the activity section on our resort pages, they're full of information on activities you can enjoy!
If you're ready to explore your options for an amazing summer break, our expert and award-winning team can help with planning the perfect holiday for you. Call us on 023 9283 9310, email on reservations@peakretreats.co.uk, or you can request a quote and we'll be in touch!
