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.

Hiking Trails

Samoëns, France

Best for Relaxing Family Getaways

Families seeking rejuvenating mountain escapes will find solace in Samoëns, particularly at Club Med’s welcoming haven. With their attentive and dynamic staff known as gentils organisateurs (GOs), parents can enjoy well-deserved moments of relaxation while their children are entertained in complimentary, all-day children’s clubs. After delightful family-friendly shows in the evenings, parents can steal away to the in-house spa or savor the breathtaking views from the outdoor pool. While the resort offers an array of energizing activities such as guided hikes and mountain biking, guests can also explore additional adventures like horseback riding, rafting, high-ropes courses, and paragliding in Samoëns at an extra cost. Embrace the convenience and comfort of the sprawling hotel-resort for the start of your Alps holiday, complete with complimentary food and beverages. With interconnecting family rooms available and children aged five and under staying for free, Club Med Samoëns Morillon ensures a stress-free and memorable family vacation.

Club Med Holidays 

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.

Peaks of Gastronomy 

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.

Watersports

Morzine, France

Best for Mountain Biking

Nestled just 15 miles south of Lake Geneva, Morzine stands as a vibrant hub for mountain biking aficionados. As part of France’s renowned Portes du Soleil, it transforms into Europe’s largest MTB playground during the summer months. With an extensive network of 370 miles of trails accessible via 22 bike-friendly lifts, Morzine offers an array of pedaling experiences. E-bikers and cross-country enthusiasts will relish exploring the picturesque Alpine meadows and expansive forest tracks, while downhill riders can tackle the thrill of five purpose-built bike parks. Morzine itself boasts quick access to three of these parks, offering diverse downhill terrains ranging from beginner-friendly runs like the Family trail to adrenaline-pumping descents like the Super Eight and Black trails. For those seeking a change of pace, road cycling opportunities abound, including the famed Col de Joux Plane, a challenging ascent frequently featured in the Tour de France. After an exhilarating day on the trails, unwind in comfort at the newly refurbished Hôtel Névé, complete with its own indoor pool.

Bike Park Morzine 

Kitzbühel, Austria

Best for Golf

Set amidst the stunning Alpine scenery, Kitzbühel in Austria emerges as an unexpected haven for golf enthusiasts. Despite its mountainous surroundings, the picturesque medieval town offers stretches of flat terrain reminiscent of scenes from The Sound of Music. Nestled within this idyllic landscape lie four exquisite golf courses, including two nine-hole courses and two championship-caliber courses. The renowned 18-hole Schwarzee course challenges players with its intricate water hazards, while the meticulously crafted Eichenheim course, designed by acclaimed architect Kyle Phillips, promises both beauty and precision reminiscent of Scotland’s Kingsbarns links. For an unparalleled golfing experience, stay at the luxurious Grand Tirolia Kitzbühel, conveniently located adjacent to the Eichenheim course, its golf school, and clubhouse, offering indulgent accommodations amidst the breathtaking Austrian scenery.

Courses in Kitzbühel

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