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 a 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 that has a variety of activities for children. With playgrounds and daycare facilities, there's something for children of all ages to enjoy.
 
Chatel
Chatel is an attractive destination for Dutch and UK property investors not only because of its charm and friendly atmosphere. The popular ‘Multi Pass’ gives you 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 that are perfect for both hiking and biking enthusiasts. The region boasts over 800km of marked trails for hiking and 650km dedicated to mountain biking. These trails cater to a variety of skill levels and preferences.
 
This part of the French Alps is renowned for being the largest mountain bike area in Europe, featuring 5 interconnected bike parks and 21 summer lifts. For those looking to explore the summits the lifts are operational in the summer to assist climbers and hikers in reaching the alpine peaks.
 
If you're looking for a scenic and simple hike, then you should definitely consider taking the Route des Grandes Alpages. This trail will take you around the Plaine Dranse Valley with plenty of breathtaking views. 

If you're up for more of a challenge, then the Route de la Patinoire is a great option. On this trail, you'll pass by waterfalls and alpine meadows before reaching the beautiful Lac de Vallonnet. For those who are interested in multi-day hikes, the GR5 and GR9 are both great 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 in the region 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 alpine meadows. You'll get panoramic views of the Dents Blanches and Dents du Midi along the way. After a steep final push, you'll emerge at the lake, which is a peaceful spot for a picnic amid breathtaking scenery. The lake is also a popular spot for wild camping under the stars.

 

Must visit swimming spots in the summer

Lac Montriond
Located amidst towering cliffs and forests, Lac Montriond is a tranquil mountain lake that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. A secure swimming area and designated splash pool for little ones, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for families. The lake also offers a range of water activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding. There are three charming restaurants dotted along the shores, making it easy to enjoy a meal during a warm summer day.
 
Morzine Aquatic Centre
If you're looking for a perfect mix of fun and relaxation, the Morzine Aquatic Centre is the place to be with both outdoor and indoor pools.. 
For those who love adventure, the giant 80-meter water slide is a must-try. Younger guests can enjoy the splash parks designed especially for them. Adults can relax in the hot tubs or join in on aqua fitness classes like Aqua Zumba and Aqua Step.
 
Wibit Les Gets inflatable water park
A family favourite is the Wibit Les Gets inflatable water park which features around 40 play areas for kids. 

The Best Summer Sports Activities in the Portes Du Soleil

Adventure Parks:
The Fantasticable in Chatel claims to be the the world's longest zip line and is not for the faint-hearted! Similarly in Les Gets, the Indiana Ventures park has plenty of heart-pounding fun to be had.
 
Golfing
If you are an experienced golfer there are some stunning golf courses in this part of the French Alps. You can practise your swing against the beautiful backdrop of majestic mountain peaks, rolling hills, and lush green fairways at courses like Golf Club de Morzine-Avoriaz or Golf Club Les Gets.
 
Tennis
Enjoy a friendly match amidst the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery at tennis clubs like the Tennis Club de Morzine or the Tennis des Dérêches in Les Gets.
 
Paragliding
Experience the thrill of flight and take in sweeping panoramas of the Alps with a tandem paragliding adventure in Portes Du Soleil. 

Popular Events and Festivals in Portes Du Soleil

Montreux Jazz Festival
The Montreux Jazz Festival, which is a world-famous event, is close to the Portes Du Soleil. You can watch top-tier artists perform while enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Geneva during the start and middle of July.
 
Morzine Harley Days
This event is a great opportunity for motorcycle fans to get together and enjoy a week filled with Harley-Davidson, live music, bike shows, and camaraderie. Seasoned riders as well as those who are just curious about Harley motorcycles will find plenty to enjoy at this legendary gathering.
 
Bastille Day
Join the French nation in celebrating Bastille Day on July 14th with a flourish of traditional festivities, including parades, and fireworks.
 
Avoriaz Dance Festival
Experience the Avoriaz Dance Festival, a week-long celebration of rhythm and movement in the middle of August with dance performances and workshops catering to all skill levels.
 
'Fête des Guides'
The 'Fête des Guides' in July celebrates the history of mountaineering in the region. 'La Fête de la Montagne' in August includes folk dancing, crafts, and local cuisine. The 'Fête du Fromage' cheese festival in July is a perfect opportunity to sample delicious local cheeses like Abondance, Beaufort, and Tomme de Savoie.
 
'Pass'Portes'
If you enjoy sports, the 'Pass'Portes' multisport race in July features mountain biking, trail running, and hiking events with routes through scenic Alpine scenery. The 'Portes du Soleil MTB Tour mountain bike race in June includes downhill and cross-country cycling for pros and amateurs.

Conclusion

The Portes Du Soleil region provides numerous opportunities for alpine adventure and relaxation during the summer months. Post Covid-19 Summer tourism is booming in the region and summer stays now make up 50% of the annual tourism in several resorts. 

Furthermore, hot summers and climate change is further increasing summer tourism in the Alps as holidaymakers avoid the high temperatures of the Mediterranean. 

FAQs About Visiting the Portes Du Soleil Region in the summer

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Portes Du Soleil region?

A: The summer months from June to August are an ideal time to visit the Portes Du Soleil region. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm allowing you to take full advantage of the outdoor activities the region offers.
 
Q: Is it possible to visit the Portes Du Soleil without a car?

A: Yes, the region is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and trains. Additionally, many villages offer free shuttle services for visitors during the summer months.
 
Q: Are there suitable activities for families with children?

A: Absolutely! The Portes Du Soleil offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including wildlife parks, adventure parks, and children's entertainment programs, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy their time in the mountains.
 
Q: Are there guided tours available in Portes Du Soleil?

A: Yes, there are guided tours and activities available in the region. Whether you're interested in hiking, biking, or exploring the local culture, you can find guided tours that cater to your interests.
 
Q: What resorts are on the Swiss side of Portes du Soleil?

A: The Swiss side of the Portes du Soleil includes several resorts such as Champéry and Val-d'Illiez-Les. Overall, the Portes du Soleil ski area connects twelve resorts across France and Switzerland, spanning from Mont Blanc to Lake Geneva. These include Morzine, Avoriaz, Châtel, Les Gets, Montriond, La Chapelle-d'Abondance, Abondance, and Saint-Jean-d'Aulps in France, among others.