Summer Holidays in Portes du Soleil
Once the snow melts, Portes du Soleil unveils magnificent scenery and offers a host of activities for all ages and abilities.
Meaning “Gates of the Sun”, it is no surprise that Portes du Soleil is an irresistible summer destination. With its south-facing position giving maximum sunshine combined with a wealth of activities on offer, there is no better place for an active holiday. With this in mind, we present you with some highlights of what you can expect on your summer holiday in Portes du Soleil.
Portes du Soleil is the mountain biking capital of the Alps
Made up of 12 village resorts, the Portes du Soleil has five internationally renowned bike parks in Chatel, Les Gets, Morzine, Avoriaz and Champery-Morgins. With over 650 km of mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to expert level, there really is something for everyone. E-bikers aren’t forgotten about either with 35 tailor-made slopes for e-riders and 23 Bosch charging stations freely available throughout the area. Several exciting bike events also take place throughout the summer, including the upcoming Pass’portes Du Soleil event at the end of June and the MTB World Cup in Les Gets from 7-17 September 2023.
Water sports and activities in the heart of the French Alps
The Portes du Soleil is home to several lakes which when heated by the sun are perfect for swimming. Lac Montriond in Morzine with three restaurants and multiple activities around the lake is one of our favourites.
Should wild swimming not be for you, there are a number of aquatic centres and thermal baths in the region. Children will especially love the Wibit Les Gets inflatable water park. This large inflatable obstacle course on the Lac des Ecoles has around 40 modules to play on including rock climbing, trampolines and a giant slide. Open from late June to the end of August, the main park is reserved for children over the age of 8. Everything from rafting and kayaking to stand-up paddle boarding and canyoning is available in the region. The options really are endless.
Via Ferrata and rock climbing in the Portes du Soleil
A halfway house between walking and climbing, there is no need for training or specialist knowledge to enjoy via ferrata in Portes du Soleil. Tackle fully-equipped routes incorporating suspended bridges, ladders, steps, ramps and zip lines whilst admiring the spectacular views. Suitable for all ages and abilities from 12 years and above, groups are accompanied by experienced guides allowing you to progress at your own pace.
Alternatively, there are a number of traditional rock climbing routes in the area to discover. Several adventure companies and mountain guides will be able to show you the most suitable areas depending on your experience. Perfect for beginners, Rocher de la Chaux is a popular spot whilst the Morzinoise route has some longer climbs.
Dig out your walking boots as you explore over 800 km of marked trails
Portes du Soleil is a hiking paradise with stunning scenery and a variety of terrain to negotiate with the help of 22 mountain lifts, making it easy to climb the peaks. Explore deep alpine forests, lush green valleys and remote pastures as you take in the spectacular views of Mont Blanc and Dents du Midi. Trail running is also popular during the summer - it even has its own app, Trace de Trail, making it easier than ever to navigate the region. Ideal for exploring the Portes du Soleil, the Multi Pass gives you unlimited access to more than 60 activities including pedestrian lifts. Pedestrians can also purchase a hiking map in the Tourist Office for all the Portes du Soleil resorts.
Stay in one of our luxury chalets to truly enhance your summer holiday experience
We have several luxury chalets in the Portes du Soleil which are sure to make your holiday a trip to remember in the best possible way. One of our favourites is Ferme de Moudon in Les Gets, a private chalet at the end of a quiet lane, just a three-minute drive from the centre of town. The chalet has incredible outside space with a heated pool and hot tub - perfect for long summer sunny days.
Another inviting property is Chalet 46 in Morzine. Just five minutes walk from the centre of the resort, this five-bedroom chalet offers a spacious terrace complete with hot tub, firepit, barbecue and pizza oven.
With a tranquil setting surrounded by forest and an alpine stream running by, Alpine Retreat is another ideal base for a summer holiday in the Portes du Soleil. Able to accommodate up to 10 guests, this welcoming chalet is within walking distance of the resort centre and has a spacious terrace with a swimming pool for those warm summer days.
Explore our collection of luxury summer chalets in France for further inspiration of where to stay in the Portes du Soleil.
