Exploring France’s Portes Du Soleil in the Summer Months

Introduction

As the warm summer sun begins to melt the remaining patches of snow in the Portes du Soleil, you can feel your excitement start to build.

This vast region straddles the French-Swiss border and offers limitless opportunities for alpine adventure and exploration during the summer months.

With lush green mountains, thrilling bike trails, and charming villages connected by scenic lifts, spending a summer here is an experience you will never forget. If you are looking for an insider's guide to making the most of summer in Portes du Soleil, then this is just what you need!

Portes Du Soleil’s Most Popular Destinations

Morzine
Morzine is a year-round resort with various activities such as day trips to Lake Geneva, swimming in rivers and lakes, and mountain and road biking. It is a hub for biking and hosts significant events such as the Tour de France and the Mountain Biking World Championships.

Les Gets
Les Gets is part of the Portes Du Soleil bike park, which has over 600 kilometres of exhilarating downhill trails, making it a perfect destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. Les Gets is a family-friendly place with a variety of activities for children, including playgrounds and daycare facilities.

Chatel
Chatel is an attractive destination for Dutch and UK property investors due to its charm and friendly atmosphere. The popular Multi Pass provides unlimited access to more than 30 great summer activities.

The Best Hiking and Biking Trails in the Portes Du Soleil

The Portes Du Soleil has an extensive network of trails, perfect for both hiking and biking enthusiasts. The region boasts over 800km of marked trails for hiking and 650km dedicated to mountain biking, catering to various skill levels.

This part of the French Alps is renowned for being the largest mountain bike area in Europe, featuring five interconnected bike parks and 21 summer lifts.

For a scenic and simple hike, consider taking the Route des Grandes Alpes. This trail takes you around the Plaine Dranse Valley with breathtaking views.

If you're up for more of a challenge, the Route de la Patinoire is a great option. On this trail, you'll pass waterfalls and alpine meadows before reaching the beautiful Lac de Vallonnet. For multi-day hikes, the GR5 and GR9 are excellent options.

The bike parks at Morzine and Chatel have obstacle courses, jumps, and boardwalks over wetlands. For families, there are easier trails like the Petit Train du Soleil loop near Avoriaz.

One of the most rewarding day hikes is the trail to Lac de Cleuson, a turquoise alpine lake surrounded by mountains. The 7.5-mile round-trip hike starts from the Col de la Golèse and ascends through forests and meadows, offering panoramic views of the Dents Blanches and Dents du Midi.

Must-Visit Swimming Spots in the Summer

Lac Montriond
Located amidst towering cliffs and forests, Lac Montriond is a tranquil mountain lake perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It has a designated swimming area and splash pool for children, along with options for kayaking and paddleboarding. Several lakeside restaurants make it a great summer destination.

Morzine Aquatic Centre
If you're looking for fun and relaxation, the Morzine Aquatic Centre offers both outdoor and indoor pools. It features an 80-meter water slide, splash parks for kids, and hot tubs for adults.

Wibit Les Gets Inflatable Water Park
A family favourite, the Wibit Les Gets inflatable water park features around 40 play areas for children.

The Best Summer Sports Activities in the Portes Du Soleil

Adventure Parks: The Fantasticable in Chatel claims to be the world’s longest zip line, while Les Gets offers thrills at the Indiana Ventures park.

Golfing: Enjoy breathtaking views while playing at Golf Club de Morzine-Avoriaz or Golf Club Les Gets.

Tennis: Play a match at the Tennis Club de Morzine.

Paragliding: Experience the thrill of flight over the Alps.

Popular Events and Festivals in Portes Du Soleil

• Montreux Jazz Festival – A world-famous music festival in July.
• Morzine Harley Days – A celebration of Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
• Avoriaz Dance Festival – A week-long dance event in August.

Conclusion

The Portes Du Soleil region offers an unforgettable summer experience, attracting more visitors due to climate change and post-COVID tourism trends.