The Best Summer Mountain Holidays

The Best Summer Mountain Holidays in Europe

Summer is a great time to escape the heat and crowds of the city and head to the mountains for some fresh air, stunning views and exhilarating activities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing break by a lake, a challenging hike on a trail, or an adrenaline-fuelled adventure on a bike, there is a mountain resort in Europe that suits your needs.

Here are some of the best destinations for a summer mountain holiday in Europe;

Chamonix, France

Best for sightseeing and hiking

Chamonix is one of the most famous mountain resorts in the world, thanks to its location at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. The views of the snow-capped mountains are breathtaking, and you can get even closer to them by taking the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi, or the cog railway to the Mer de Glace glacier. Chamonix is also a paradise for hikers, with hundreds of kilometres of trails for all levels of difficulty. You can walk along the valley floor, climb up to alpine meadows and lakes, or tackle some of the iconic routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc or the Haute Route.

Alta Badia, Italy

Best for food and culture

Alta Badia is a valley in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinctive rock formations and pink-hued peaks. Alta Badia is not only a scenic destination, but also a cultural one, as it is home to the Ladin people, who have their own language, traditions and cuisine. You can learn more about their history and culture at the Ladin Museum in San Cassiano, or sample their delicious dishes at one of the many restaurants and mountain huts in the area. Alta Badia is also a great base for exploring the Dolomites by foot, bike or car.

Zell am See-Kaprun, Austria

Best for family fun and water sports

Zell am See-Kaprun is a dual resort that offers something for everyone. Zell am See is a charming town on the shores of Lake Zell, where you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing or just relaxing on the beach. Kaprun is a glacier resort that offers year-round skiing and snowboarding on the Kitzsteinhorn. You can also visit the Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs, where you can admire the engineering marvels and the panoramic views. Zell am See-Kaprun also has plenty of attractions for children, such as the Maisiflitzer Alpine Coaster, the Tauern Spa and the Schmittenhöhe Adventure Mountain.