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8 things to do in the Portes du Soleil this summer

As the winter season draws to a close, our minds are already turning to the long summer days here in the Alps. Some of you may be already counting down the days until next season, while others may be thinking that the mountains are best explored in shorts and t-shirts. Whatever the case may be, here’s a list of fun activities (some more active than others) in the mountains this summer.

1. Walking and hiking

erlebnis-wandern-chablais-tour_portes_du_soleilWith over 800km of marked trails to explore throughout the Portes du Soleil region, there is more than enough to keep you busy for a week or two. Arm yourself with a map, good boots, and plenty of water off
you go. For the more adventurous, hire a local guide to take you on high altitude walks, or else tackle one of the beautiful tours of the Dents du Midi, with 3, 4 or 5 day options, sleeping in mountain huts along the way.

2. Mountain biking

portesdusoleilLes Portes du Soleil is renowned for its mountain biking scene, and has invested heavily in som
e of the best trails in Europe from beginner to expert level. The riding caters to all tastes and experience levels, with 5 interlinked bike parks, 21 summer lifts, 12 resorts and 650km of marked trails – there is really something for everyone. Electric mountain bikes are also available to rent from Snowline bike shop in Morgins and over 25 other shops throughout the area, providing a great way to explore and cover lots of terrain in a day’s trip.

3. Via ferrata and rock climbing

671714Whether it’s your first try or you are an experienced climber there is lots to discover in the area. Via ferrata (literally ‘iron way’) was originally developed by the Italians as a way of moving soldiers across difficult terrain in  the first world war. In essence it is a cable fixed to the mountain side, to which climbers are secured by a lanyard and harness. It is a great way of experiencing places and situations usually reserved for highly experienced climbers.  Alternatively there are a number of traditional rock climbing routes in the area just waiting to be discovered, as well as the tree top adventure parks in Champéry and Champoussin.

4. The Fantasticable in Chatel

le-fantasticable-jf-vuarand-3601Every dreamed of flying? This is probably as close as you can get without a wingsuit! The Fantasticable is made up of two cables, 1.2km and 1.3km in length, and with up to 240m high. Not for the faint hearted! The good news is that those who don’t fancy the flight can sit on a nice sunny terrace and watch the others fly over their heads!

5. Paragliding

phpThumb_generated_thumbnailFrom zip wires to real flying! Try a tandem paragliding flight and experience the exhilaration of looking down on the Alps from above. Alternatively book one of the initiation day packages with a local club as your first step to become a qualified pilot yourself.

6. Horse riding

horseAnother great way to explore the area is on horseback. Book a hour or two’s tour, or even a full day if you want to explore further and enjoy the beautiful mountain region in a fun a new way. Multi-day tours can also be arranged for groups, where you explore by day and sleep in mountain huts by night. A great rugged adventure!

7. Thermal baths

laveyWith all of the activities mentioned above, you might quite rightly think that you deserve a day off! The are a number of aquatic centres and thermal baths in the region, with our favorites being the Thermes Parc and Lavey les Bains. Sit and relax, enjoy the spa, get a massage, and generally take a day off whilst enjoying natural spring water with beautiful views over the mountains.

8. A lovely meal to round it all off

FullSizeRender (15)After all of this, you are sure to be hungry! Luckily, you will find yourself in the middle of an area renewed for its mountain specialities and sunny restaurants. There is every option imaginable, from a fondue on a sunny terrace high up in the mountains, to more formal evening options with the best Swiss or Haute Savoie cuisine and wine.

Get in touch today to book your summer adventure in the Alps!

 

 

 

Written by superadmin • 07/04/2016
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