Discover the Magic of Summer Holidays in the Alps

Why Choose the Alps in Summer?

The Alps in summer offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Think warm sunshine, cool mountain breezes, and jaw-dropping views everywhere you look. Unlike crowded coastal resorts, the Alps offer space to breathe, explore, and reconnect with nature – making them ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

With endless things to do in the Alps in summer, from hiking and biking to paragliding, wine tasting, and spa retreats, there's something to suit every type of traveller. Plus, luxury chalets and alpine lodges now open their doors in summer, offering high-end hospitality, Michelin-worthy cuisine, and serene wellness experiences.

Explore the Swiss Alps in Summer

A Swiss Alps summer holiday is the epitome of scenic beauty and refined outdoor living. Resorts like Zermatt, Verbier, Gstaad, and St. Moritz boast crystal-clear mountain lakes, glacier hiking, and even summer skiing. Ride the Gornergrat railway for incredible views of the Matterhorn or paraglide over the Val de Bagnes. In the Engadin Valley, kite surf across Lake Silvaplana or unwind with a paddleboarding session before relaxing in a luxury lakeside spa.

Summer Skiing in Zermatt

Whilst there are plenty of things to do in Zermatt in summer, skiing in Europe's highest summer ski area should be at the top of everyone's bucket list. Take the gondola from Zermatt to the Klein Matterhorn at 3,883m and practice your turns on the Theodul Glacier which offers 21 km of pistes. The best time to enjoy Zermatt summer skiing is early in the morning before the conditions start to deteriorate under the strong morning sun. Freestyle fans can get their kicks at the Zermatt Snowpark whilst those taking it a bit easier can watch the experts training on the glacier as they get ready for the next winter season.

STAY: Chalet Gemini - a five-bedroom chalet set above Zermatt Village with spectacular views, large terrace & outdoor hot tub.

Paragliding in Verbier

Verbier promises adventure and thrills this summer with a number of adrenaline-inducing activities on offer. See the beauty of Verbier in summer from a bird's eye view by taking to the skies on a tandem paragliding flight with a professional pilot. Fly over the spectacular alpine valleys and snow-capped peaks with Verbier Summits on a flight lasting up to 30 minutes - no experience required!

If you're feeling even braver, why not try a tandem parachute jump from a helicopter over the Val de Bagnes? A tandem skydiving experience with Alpsskydive includes a 15-minute helicopter flight and jump with a drop time of 40 seconds. Once the free fall is over, you still have 10 minutes of canopy flight time to recover and enjoy the views.

STAY: Chalet Grand Coeur - a four-bedroom chalet close to Savoleyres with a covered outdoor swimming pool & sunny terrace.

Kite Surfing in St Moritz

Irresistible to wind and kite surfers, the Engadin's Lake Silvaplana is a mecca for water-sport lovers around the world. The famous Majola wind combined with the sublime mountain panorama attracts numerous surfers and sailors to St Moritz in summer. Each year, Lake Silvaplana and Lake St. Moritz host the World European and Swiss Sailing Championships, but if you are just starting out then there are a variety of courses on offer to help you learn how to sail.

If you prefer to take it a little easier, then head out on a paddleboard and explore the crystal-clear waters at a more leisurely pace. There are also a number of smaller lakes suitable for swimming. Lakes such as Lej de Staz reach pleasant temperatures in July and August and are ideal for taking a dip.

STAY: Apartment Lakeside - a centrally-located 3-bedroom apartment overlooking Lake St Moritz.

Discover the French Alps in Summer

French Alps summer holidays promise action-packed adventures and picturesque villages. Chamonix, Megeve, Les Gets, and Morzine are perfect bases for outdoor enthusiasts. Try via ferrata climbing routes, e-biking trails through wildflower meadows, or white-water rafting in the rivers of the Mont Blanc region.

Cultural festivals, local markets, and regional gastronomy add flair to your summer itinerary. Think Beaufort cheese, blueberry tarts, and chilled Savoie wines enjoyed with a view of Mont Blanc. Stay in stylish summer chalets or family-run hideaways with access to cable cars that turn hiking trails into effortless alpine escapades.

Mountain Biking in Les Gets

If you're a mountain biking fanatic, then there is nowhere better to ride than Les Gets in summer. Les Gets Bikepark is a world-famous mountain biking site and playground for all disciplines including downhill mountain biking (DHI), cross-country (XCO), freestyle, freeride and electric mountain biking. Suitable for all levels, there are 128 km of marked trails to explore as well as numerous fun zones.

STAY: Apartment Artois - a modern four-bedroom apartment in the centre of Les Gets with a shared spa area.

Panoramic Views in Chamonix

For breathtaking views, look no further than the delights of Chamonix in summer. Get up close and personal with the summit of Mont-Blanc from the Aiguille du Midi. A cable car takes you from the centre of Chamonix up to the summit of Aiguille du Midi (3842m). From here you can experience 360° panoramic views from multiple viewing platforms, dine at Le 3842 (one of the highest restaurants in Europe), or "Step into the Void" (a 2.5m glass box that juts out over a precipice). Afterwards, take a stroll over to the famous "Mer de Glace" and catch the little red Montenvers train back down to the resort.

Often referred to as the "capital of world climbing' Chamonix is also popular with mountaineers and climbers in the warmer season. Whilst there are many extreme rock climbing ascents, there are also easily accessible beginner and family-friendly crags which provide superb rock climbing experiences if you are new to the sport.

STAY: Chalet Infinity - a five-bedroom retreat in the picturesque hamlet of Les Frasserands with a swimming pool and outdoor Jacuzzi.

Golf in Megeve

With an 18-hole golf course at the foot of the mountains, 21 practice driving ranges, a putting green and training bunker, it is no wonder that golfers flock to Megeve in summer. Created in 1923 and redesigned in 1964, the course is considered one of the most prestigious mountain golf courses with plenty of technical specificities.

During your summer holiday in Megeve, you can benefit from personalised teaching plans and coaching from reputed and competent professionals. Whether you are a novice just hitting your first ball or an expert golfer, Mont d'Arbois golf course caters for all.

STAY: Chalet Lamartine - a modern six-bedroom chalet close to the centre of Megeve with an outdoor pool.

Explore the Austrian Alps in Summer

An Austrian Alps summer getaway is ideal for those who want a blend of outdoor pursuits and cultural heritage. In regions like Tyrol and Zillertal, immerse yourself in traditional alpine hospitality, discover centuries-old farmhouses, or relax in natural thermal spas surrounded by alpine lakes and pine forests.

Hike across rolling valleys, visit local cheese dairies, or take scenic cable cars to panoramic viewpoints. Austria also excels in family-friendly mountain adventures, from forest adventure parks to wild swimming lakes.

Fishing in Lech

Fishing in the peace and quiet of the Arlberg Valley is a must for keen anglers. The flowing waters of the Arlberg provide a solid stock of riverine brown trout, rainbow trout, lake trout and speckled trout. Soak up the beauty of Lech in summer with the crystal clear waters of Formarinsee Lake, considered by many to be one of Austria's most beautiful places. Spullersee Lake is another spot with fantastic mountain scenery and is home to brook char, salmonids and rainbow trout amongst others.

Fly fishing fans should head to the Lechbach stream where you can find rainbow and riverine brown trout.

STAY: Chalet Arula 2 - beautiful four-bedroom mountain home with exceptional entertainment & wellness facilities.

Hiking in St Anton

This Arlberg Hiking Trail connects all five resorts in the Arlberg - St Anton, St Christoph, Stuben, Zurs and Lech. The well-signposted circular trail comprises a total length of 50 km, 6,038m in elevation difference by foot and takes around 18 hours to complete. Start from St Anton in a clockwise direction to coordinate the routes and cable car rides easily. Accessible in July, August and September, the route is designed to be done in three stages with overnight stays in Stuben and Lech.

If you do not want to walk the entire route, it is also possible to do individual stages or try easier variants.

STAY: Chalet Tschoder - free-standing seven-bedroom chalet that's perfect for large groups.

Wellness in Kitzbuhel

Kitzbühel offers an exceptional wellness experience in summer, blending luxury spa treatments with the serene beauty of the Tyrolean Alps. Renowned wellness hotels like the A-ROSA Kitzbühel, Kempinski Das Tirol, and Hotel Kitzhof boast expansive spa areas with outdoor pools overlooking the mountains, themed saunas, steam baths, and fitness programmes including yoga, Pilates, and aqua gym. Guests can unwind with holistic treatments such as Ayurvedic massages, aroma therapies, and salt scrubs, or embrace mindfulness through forest bathing in the tranquil Südberge.

For active relaxation, paddleboard yoga on Schwarzsee and nature hikes to alpine lakes like Gieringer Weiher add a refreshing outdoor dimension. The region also caters to beauty and health with a wide range of cosmetic treatments and therapeutic massages.

STAY: Hahnenkamm Lodge - a stunning five-bedroom chalet with beautiful hiking trails on your doorstep.

Discover the Italian Alps in Summer

Romantic, rugged, and rich in flavour, the Italian Alps in summer offer dramatic Dolomites landscapes, gourmet cuisine, and rustic charm. Alta Badia and Val Gardena are excellent hiking bases, with trails winding through UNESCO-listed peaks, and past rifugios serving steaming polenta and strudel.

Spend your days rock climbing, e-biking, or visiting Alpine vineyards. In South Tyrol, cultural influences from Austria and Italy blend into something truly unique – especially when enjoyed from a terrace with a glass of Lagrein in hand.

Culinary Experiences in Alta Badia

Alta Badia is increasingly becoming one of 'the' gastronomic spots in the mountains. From traditional Ladin restaurants to the elegance of fine dining, there are a multitude of restaurants to discover in Alta Badia in summer. If you're a wine connoisseur, don't miss "Vins alaleria" where an expert local sommelier accompanies you on a wine-tasting tour of some of the finest South Tyrolean wines, surrounded by the incredible scenery of the Dolomites.

There are also several cooking demonstrations taking place throughout the summer in Alta Badia. Master the art of Ladin recipes or experience the popular strudel festival on 15 July 2025.

STAY: Casa Feroze - exquisite five-bedroom chalet in Colfosco, close to shops and restaurants

Family Holidays in Val Gardena

A family holiday in the Dolomites is a memorable experience. Val Gardena in summer is ideal for family holidays with countless adventures to enjoy both on and off the mountain. Keeping children entertained is easy with the PanaRaida adventure trail, High Ropes course and the weekly Val Gardena Kids Active programme for children aged between 6 and 12.

From hiking to horseback riding, there are also plenty of sports to choose from. Afterwards, cool off in the indoor and outdoor pools at Mar Dolomit which also offers a sauna, 65m adventure slide and several relaxation rooms for a well-earned massage.

STAY: Lum d'Or Spa Chalet - an elegant four-bedroom chalet in the village of Selva with an infinity pool and spa.

Festivals in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Summer in Cortina d’Ampezzo is a time of vibrant celebration and deep-rooted traditions, marked by a calendar of festive events that bring together locals and visitors in a joyous atmosphere. The season begins with the Sagra d’Ampezzo, held on the first Sunday in July when the historic centre transforms into a bustling fairground with market stalls, traditional fare, and live entertainment. In the afternoon, there's a spirited competition between the six neighbourhoods—or sestieri—of Cortina. Teams face off in old-fashioned games such as running races, wood chopping, and tug-of-war, reflecting the region’s mountain heritage and sense of camaraderie.

As July progresses, each of the sestieri takes a turn hosting its own weekend fest, complete with big tents, hearty food, traditional music, and dancing late into the night. The season reaches its crescendo with the Festa de ra Bandes, a week-long festival dedicated to music and pageantry. Local and visiting bands fill the town with melodies during open-air performances that create a truly magical atmosphere. The event concludes with a spectacular costumed parade and a grand final concert on the last Sunday of August, bringing the summer celebrations to an unforgettable close.

STAY: Chalet LV | 01 - spacious six-bedroom chalet with a cinema room, indoor pool and spectacular views.

Summary

Leo Trippi offers bespoke summer holidays in the Alps, combining luxurious accommodation with personalised experiences across the Swiss, French, Austrian, and Italian Alps. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, an active escape filled with hiking and biking, or a culturally rich getaway with local festivals and gourmet dining, we curate every detail to suit your needs. With access to the region’s finest chalets, expert local knowledge, and a passion for alpine living, Leo Trippi ensures your summer holiday in the Alps is unforgettable.