Stretching from Lake Geneva 370 km south to Provence, the French Alps are one of the most awe-inspiring mountainscapes in the world. Craggy, snowbound summits soar above forested valleys, an extreme geography that makes the French Alps perfect for outdoor sports.
The French Alps are beautiful and spectacular. Wild, yet easily accessible, they’re an ideal destination for an active holiday. Bike, hike, climb and ski the mountains around Mont Blanc. Raft, kayak and paraglide the lowland areas around Annecy, Thonon and Chambéry. Chamonix is a Mecca for thrill seekers while Grenoble provides big city amenities and quick access to low-altitude, less expensive ski resorts.
Discover 4000 m peaks, frozen lakes and tumbling glaciers, raging rivers and forests of larch, spruce-fir and beech. Hike the legendary GR5 trail and discover the mighty Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges and the Grand Paradis. The French Alps is also home to some of France’s most iconic national parks including the Vanoise National Park with over a hundred 3000m peaks and bordering the famous ski resorts of the Tarentaise Valley.
Explore the French Alps
The French Alps are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes and year-round adventure. Whether you’re carving down snow-covered slopes in winter or exploring lush mountain trails in summer, there’s something for everyone in this iconic region.
In the colder months, the French Alps transform into a world-class winter sports destination. Renowned ski resorts like Chamonix, Val d’Isère, and Les Trois Vallées provide pristine slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. For those looking beyond the pistes, activities such as snowshoeing, fat biking, and ice climbing offer thrilling ways to experience the snowy wilderness.
As the snow melts, the Alps reveal a playground for summer adventures. Miles of scenic hiking trails wind through verdant valleys and rugged peaks, while crystal-clear lakes like Lake Annecy invite you to swim, kayak, and paddleboard. Cyclists, too, will find their challenge in the region’s legendary mountain passes, many of which feature in the Tour de France. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled excitement or a tranquil escape in nature, the French Alps promise an unforgettable experience in every season.
Here’s a list of our favourite places to visit from Chamonix and Annecy in the northern French Alps to the Ubaye Valley and the Mercantour National Park in the south:
1. Annecy
Situated right on a huge crystal-clear lake and with a backdrop of alpine peaks, Annecy is one of the most picturesque destinations in the French Alps. Although the stunning lake takes centre stage, the charming old town and easy access to mountain adventures make Annecy a year-round playground for active travellers. From wild swimming and paddle boarding to road cycling, hiking, and paragliding, the options are as scenic as they are varied.
In winter, Annecy becomes a relaxed base for snow sports, with a couple ski resorts, namely La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand within easy reach…
2. Chamonix
Chamonix isn’t just a mountain town—it’s a high-octane mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, this legendary valley straddles the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland, offering some of the most epic terrain in Europe.
Whether you’re here to push your limits or soak in the alpine vibes, summer in Chamonix is all about adventure.
Hike towering ridgelines, climb world-class routes, or test your endurance on iconic trail running tracks. If speed is your thing, take on the downhill bike tracks or soar over glaciers with a tandem paragliding flight. Looking to cool off? Hit the river for some high-energy whitewater rafting.
3. Canyoning
The French Alps are a paradise for canyoning enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of descents that cater to both novices and seasoned adventurers.
From the exhilarating jumps and slides of the Montmin Canyon near Annecy to the technical challenges of the Barberine Canyon in Chamonix, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Each canyon provides a unique blend of natural water slides, crystal-clear pools, and breathtaking alpine scenery, making the French Alps a must-visit destination for those seeking the ultimate canyoning adventure.
4. Mountain Biking
Whether you’re into fast, technical descents or exploring scenic singletrack, the French Alps provide an unparalleled mountain biking experience that keeps riders coming back year after year.
Head to the Portes du Soleil for bikepark riding at its very best. With its vast network of trails aimed at all abilities and riding styles, there really is something for everyone.
Or, visit Alpe d’Huez with its impressive 2,600 meters of vertical drop and take on the legendary Megavalanche downhill race, which attracts riders from around the globe.
5. Skiing & Snowboarding
A playground for skiers and snowboarders, the French Alps offer a vast terrain for all abilities. From the high-altitude slopes of Les Trois Vallées, boasting 600 km of groomed pistes, to the challenging off-piste descents in Chamonix, you’re sure to find a ski resort that ticks your boxes.
Beyond the well-known resorts, the French Alps are dotted with lesser-known gems like La Grave, renowned for its extreme steep skiing, and Sainte Foy, offering untouched powder fields away from the crowds. Whether you’re carving down groomed runs or exploring backcountry trails, the French Alps provide an unparalleled winter adventure.
Please leave a comment below if you need specific advice for your trip to the French Alps, or if you have any recommendations to help us improve this guide. Happy holidays!