Top 5 Family & Adventure French Alps Summer Holidays

The French Alps might be world-famous for skiing and snowboarding, but don’t let the winter rep fool you—summer in the Alps is just as exciting, especially for families. When the snow melts, a new kind of playground appears: one filled with emerald-green valleys, flower-lined hiking trails, refreshing mountain lakes, and an endless menu of family activities.

Whether you want an active escape, a nature-filled break, or simply a place where the whole family can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with each other, a French Alps summer holiday is a perfect choice.

To help you choose the best spot for your summer holidays in France, here are five of our favourite easily accessible alpine destinations with something for everyone.

1. Les Menuires – Family Fun at High Altitude

Sitting at 1,850 metres in the Belleville Valley, Les Menuires is best known as part of the famous Three Valleys ski area. But in summer, it offers wide open spaces, sunny slopes, and plenty of action to keep kids and adults smiling all day.

Family Activities:

• Mountain biking: The resort boasts a full-fledged Bike Park with downhill and enduro trails ranging from beginner to expert. Plus, several rental shops offer kid-sized bikes and gear.
• Speed Mountain: An exhilarating rail toboggan that twists and turns down the mountain—great fun for brave little adventurers.
• Hiking: Try the ‘Plan de l’Eau’ trail, a gentle riverside walk ideal for little legs, complete with picnic spots and playful sculptures along the way.
• Aqua & Wellness Centre: Great for rainy days or post-hike relaxation. Includes a paddling pool for toddlers, water jets, and even spa options for parents.
• Mini farms and nature tours: Kids can meet alpacas, goats, and rabbits while learning about alpine farming traditions.

Bonus Tip:

Don’t miss the weekly summer events—think mountain festivals, music concerts, and local produce markets that make your stay even more memorable.

Getting There:

Geneva to Les Menuires transfers take around 2.5 to 3 hours. The route is scenic, taking you through Alpine valleys and mountain passes. Book a door-to-door summer transfer with Alps2Alps to avoid parking hassles and enjoy a stress-free start to your trip.

2. Chamonix – An Iconic Destination with Mont Blanc Views

Chamonix is legendary. Known as the birthplace of mountaineering and home to Mont Blanc, it’s not just for hardcore adventurers. Families will find a mix of culture, nature, and adrenaline here, all set against Europe’s highest peak.

Family Activities:

• Aiguille du Midi cable car: Ride up to 3,842m and experience the “Step into the Void” glass box for a thrilling (but safe) photo opportunity.
• Montenvers Train & Mer de Glace: Take the charming red cogwheel train to the glacier, where you can explore an ice cave, visit a crystal museum, and enjoy panoramic views.
• Parc de Loisirs: Located near the town centre, this amusement park includes a luge, slides, trampolines, and rope bridges.
• Family hiking routes: Trails like Les Gorges de la Diosaz or Parc de Merlet offer easy walking with waterfalls and wildlife viewing.
• Climbing and via ferrata: With guides available, even beginners and children can safely experience rock climbing and cable-assisted mountain routes.

Cultural Tip:

Pop into the Alpine Museum in central Chamonix for a glimpse into how early climbers tackled Mont Blanc—with equipment far more rustic than today’s.

Getting There:

Geneva to Chamonix transfers are among the quickest in the region, taking around 1 hour 15 minutes. The route runs near the Swiss border, offering views of both France and Switzerland. Shared transfers are available if you’re looking for cost-effective options.

3. Morzine – Traditional Charm & Mountain Biking Mecca

If you’re planning a family summer holiday in the French Alps and want something vibrant yet manageable, Morzine ticks all the boxes. It offers a traditional alpine vibe, fantastic mountain biking terrain, and an incredibly family-friendly atmosphere.

Family Activities:

• Les Gets-Morzine Bike Park: Known as one of Europe’s best, it caters to all levels. There’s even a mini bike park for children learning to ride.
• Indiana Parc: Set in the forest, this treetop adventure includes zip lines, rope bridges, and swinging platforms. There are dedicated routes for young children and thrill-seekers.
• Swimming at Lac de Montriond: Just a short drive from the town, this lake is ideal for a sunny afternoon. It has designated swimming areas, pedal boats, and kayak rentals.
• Horse riding: Pony rides for younger kids or longer treks into the hills for older children and adults.
• Farm visits: Learn how local cheese is made and meet the animals who help produce it!

Family Highlight:

Check out the weekly programme of events and workshops, from nature walks to pottery classes.

Getting There:

Geneva to Morzine transfers take just over 1 hour. It’s one of the most easily accessible resorts in the Alps, especially appealing for families with young children who want to avoid travelling too far from the airport.

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4. La Clusaz – A Peaceful Alpine Retreat with Family Soul

La Clusaz is a postcard-perfect alpine village with wooden chalets, mountain lakes, and meadows dotted with wildflowers. It’s ideal if you want to slow down and soak up the peaceful side of the French Alps in summer.

Family Activities:

• Hiking trails for all levels: Try the Les Confins valley or the Beauregard Plateau—both are stroller-friendly and offer unforgettable views.
• Mountain biking: There are dedicated family trails and a kids’ pump track to build skills.
• Animal park: Visit the Plateau des Glières where kids can spot marmots and ibex in their natural habitats.
• Cheese tasting & farm tours: La Clusaz is the home of Reblochon—visit a farm and see how this delicious cheese is made.
• Parc des Dérêches: A large open space with skate parks, tennis courts, and playgrounds.

Insider Tip:

Time your visit with the annual Fête du Reblochon (usually in August), a lively celebration of local culture, food, and crafts.

Getting There:

Geneva to La Clusaz transfers are smooth and scenic, taking approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. The route includes stunning lake and mountain views, perfect for setting the tone of your alpine escape.

5. Les Gets – Quirky Attractions & Outdoor Escapades

Les Gets offers a unique blend of authentic alpine heritage and modern fun. Its compact layout, lively village centre, and range of outdoor attractions make it one of the best picks for family holidays in the French Alps.

Family Activities:

• Les Gets Bike Park: Part of the Portes du Soleil area, this park offers everything from technical trails to beginner-friendly circuits. The resort also has one of the best MTB schools for kids.
• Alta Lumina: This enchanting light trail through the forest is like walking through a fairytale. Book in advance—it’s incredibly popular!
• Lake Les Gets: A small lake with a sandy beach, lifeguards, and floating obstacle courses.
• Mechanical Music Museum: Take a step back in time with a charming collection of vintage instruments and music boxes—educational and magical for children.
• Outdoor yoga, mini golf, and weekly kids’ clubs: Let the little ones join forest adventures while you relax in a nearby café.

Getting There:

Geneva to Les Gets transfers take around 1 hour 15 minutes. The resort is just off the main highway, offering easy access and minimal travel time—ideal for similar timed flight arrivals or tight schedules.

Why Choose a French Alps Summer Holiday?

Choosing the French Alps in summer for your family break means:

• A cooler, healthier alternative to sweltering beach resorts.
• Wide open spaces perfect for recharging as a family.
• Adventure and relaxation wrapped into one unforgettable experience.
• Accessibility from major cities with minimal travel stress.

Book Your Summer Transfers with Alps2Alps

Alps2Alps offers reliable, family-friendly transfers from Geneva and other airports straight to your alpine destination. Whether you’re after door-to-door service, shared transfers to Morzine, or a private vehicle to Chamonix, we’ll get you there safely, comfortably, and affordably.

Ready for your next adventure? The French Alps summer holidays are calling—start planning today and create memories your family will treasure forever.