Peak Retreats Reports Rising Demand for Train-to-the-Alps Summer Holidays

STORY BY Debbie 20th May 2026

Growing interest in alternatives to flying is fuelling demand for summer holidays by train, according to French Alps specialist Peak Retreats, which has launched its train-inclusive summer programme with a choice of rail-accessible resorts and self-catered accommodation.

The operator says travelling by train offers a relaxed, practical alternative to air travel, with generous luggage allowances, the chance to move around during the journey and scenery that shifts from city to mountains without the stop-start of airport queues. It also allows for straightforward onward connections, with transfers arranged from key Alpine railheads into resort.

Peak Retreats adds that, with continued pressure and disruption in parts of the aviation sector, more travellers are considering rail as a reliable route to the French Alps, particularly families and those keen to avoid the stress often associated with airports. Rail is also widely viewed as a lower-impact option than flying, a factor the company says is increasingly influencing booking decisions.

Clients can book rail as part of a package with accommodation and transfers, keeping arrangements under one booking and supported by a specialist team that regularly travels the route.

Alison Willis, Managing Director of Peak Retreats, says: “With so much talk in the media about jet fuel, we are seeing people being more open to alternatives to flying as they still want to get away this summer. We’ve always been passionate about train travel to the Alps. Our team are converts and having done the journey ourselves with our own families, we can offer detailed advice and tips to those looking to try the train for the first time.”

Summer holiday packages with train and transfer

Kalinda, Tignes

Kalinda, Tignes
Based in Tignes 1800, pitched as a quieter base for exploring the resort’s summer activity programme. On-site facilities include an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and fitness room, plus a bakery delivery service.
Week commencing 1 August 2026 from £682pp, based on 5 sharing, including return train travel from London to Bourg St Maurice via Paris (Eurostar to Paris and onward TGV), return transfer to Tignes and 7 nights self-catered accommodation in a two-bedroom apartment.

Le Cristal de Jade, Chamonix


Located around 200m from the centre of Chamonix, with hiking, biking, lake swimming, a wildlife park and the Montenvers train among nearby options, alongside the town’s shops and restaurants. Facilities include an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and gym.
Week commencing 8 August 2026 from £984pp, based on 5 sharing, including return train travel from London to St Gervais le Fayet via Paris (Eurostar to Paris and onward TGV), return transfer to Chamonix and 7 nights self-catered accommodation in a two-bedroom apartment.

Les Clarines, Les Deux Alpes


Set in the Clarines district, close to bars, restaurants and shops. Peak Retreats highlights Les Deux Alpes for biking, alongside a range of water sport activities. Facilities include an outdoor pool, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room.
Week commencing 25 July 2026 from £774pp, based on 5 sharing, including return train travel from London to Grenoble via Paris (Eurostar to Paris and onward TGV), return transfer to Les Deux Alpes and 7 nights self-catered accommodation in a two-bedroom apartment.

For more information on train-inclusive French Alps summer holidays, visit Peak Retreats’ dedicated page (peakretreats.co.uk); 023 9283 9310.

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