When we think of mountains in summer, we often think of hiking. However, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the altitude with your family.
Summer tobogganing , adventure parks , mountain farms , electric mountain biking , and resort activities : there 's no shortage of ideas for getting active, breathing, exploring, and having fun. Whether you're a kid or grown-up, or a tired or curious parent, there's something for everyone.
Here are 5 tried and tested activity ideas to do in or near the resort, to enjoy the mountains in a different way.
01. Summer tobogganing
No need to wait for snow to hit the slopes. Summer tobogganing is the summer version of crazy downhill runs. A prepared track, a small trolley on rails, a lever to control the speed... and off you go for a few minutes of tight turns and laughter.
Some slopes are over 1,000 meters long, with real vertical drops and mountain views. Kids love them, and so do parents (especially those who like to be in control of the descent). Generally, from 3 or 4 years old, with an adult. From 8 or 10 years old, they can ride alone.
Expect to pay between €5 and €7 per descent, with sometimes cheaper family passes or passes. Most resorts offer them: La Clusaz, Les Saisies, Les Orres, Super Besse, Saint-Lary, etc.
Our tip: This is a perfect activity for a day at the resort: easy to combine with a picnic, a gentle stroll, or a visit to the lake. Remember to check the opening days: some facilities only operate on weekends or during holidays.
02. Visit an alpine farm
It's a quiet activity, but one that appeals to everyone. Alpine farms open their doors in the summer to allow visitors to discover their daily lives: the animals, milking, cheesemaking, and life at altitude.
Children can approach the goats, cows, or sheep, give them some hay, and ask any questions they may have. Many farms also offer a tasting or a shared plate of homemade products on site.
They can be found in almost all valleys: Beaufortain, Vanoise, Pyrenees, Vosges... Some also have a restaurant area or a playground.
Practical side: some farms are just a few minutes' walk from the road, others are directly accessible by car. Sometimes there's a small fee for the guided tour (€3 to €5), while others operate on a per-visit basis or by consumption basis.
Please note: not all are open every day. It's best to call ahead or visit your local tourist office for the correct opening hours.
03. Try out forest adventure parks
Rope bridges, zip lines, hanging nets, tree houses... Adventure parks are a great way to spend the afternoon outside, in the shade of the trees, moving without really realizing it.
There are often several courses depending on age and size: some accept children as young as 3, with continuous lifelines and courses close to the ground. For older children, giant zip lines and suspension bridges provide a little more excitement.
Expect to pay between €10 and €25 for entry, depending on age and the chosen course. Equipment is provided (harness, helmet, lanyards), and a briefing is given before you set off. Some parks also offer giant nets without a harness, accessible even to toddlers.
Where? There are some in most mountain resorts: Serre Chevalier, Chamonix, Gérardmer, La Bresse, Les Gets… often located in a cool and quiet forest, sometimes near a body of water or a leisure center.
Our advice: remember to bring closed-toe sneakers and book in advance if you go in high season: slots can fill up quickly, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
04. Explore the mountains by electric mountain bike
You don't need to have cyclist's thighs to go mountain biking. With electric assistance, climbs become accessible and the fun remains intact. It's a good option for covering more ground without getting too tired, while still enjoying the scenery.
The resorts have developed marked routes for all levels, with family trails (around 5 to 10 km) accessible from 8 or 9 years old. You can rent electric mountain bikes suitable for children and adults, with helmets included, or even a trailer for the little ones.
Expect to pay around €30 to €50 for a half-day rental. Some resorts, such as Les Gets, La Bresse, and Vars, also offer introductory sessions led by an instructor.
This is a good plan for those who want to move without hiking, alternating forest roads, small trails and snack breaks in the mountain pastures.
Our advice: Leave early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat, and check the weather forecast before you go. In the mountains, a downpour can quickly change the atmosphere.
05. Enjoy resort festivals and events
In summer, resorts don't rest. On the contrary, they come up with ideas to keep young and old busy: street performances, creative workshops, open-air concerts, movie screenings under the stars, storytelling walks, giant wooden games... There's often a different activity every day.
Even toddlers will find something to enjoy, and teenagers will enjoy the concerts and evening screenings.
Resorts like Les 2 Alpes, Châtel, La Toussuire or Les Rousses offer a full agenda in July and August, sometimes grouped into a family pass with other activities (access to swimming pool, ski lifts, mini golf, etc.).
Our advice: stop by the tourist office as soon as you arrive. You'll leave with the weekly schedule and great times to enjoy the week.
Ready to change your perspective on the mountain?
The mountains in summer aren't just for hikers. Whether you have little ones, teenagers who never get tired, or just want to enjoy yourself without trekking, there's plenty to fill your days. And above all: enough to return home with memories full of memories.
Sledding, mountain biking, farm, zip line or concert in the resort… whatever the activity , you will need good shoes .
At Kimberfeel, we think of families who love to move, explore, and enjoy themselves.
For young and old alike , we have what you need for your feet.
➜ Discover the Men’s models
➜ Discover the Women's models
➜ Discover the Children’s models
Choose your way.
