8th May 2026
Last modified on May 11th, 2026
PlanetSKI has curated a comprehensive selection of summer activities across various mountain resorts, catering to a wide spectrum of interests including animal lovers, adventure seekers, families, and food enthusiasts. This annual compilation aims to showcase the evolving landscape of summer mountain tourism, moving beyond traditional warm-weather pursuits to embrace unique experiences that highlight the natural beauty and cultural richness of these destinations.
The offerings this year present a blend of the established and the innovative, demonstrating a strategic effort by resorts to extend their appeal beyond the winter ski season. From immersive agricultural experiences to high-octane sporting events and curated culinary journeys, the mountains are positioning themselves as year-round destinations.
For Animal Lovers: Immersive Encounters in the Alps
Belleville Valley Welcomes Visitors to a Unique Goat Farm Experience
In the picturesque hamlet of Villarenger, nestled within the Belleville Valley, Gaëlle has opened her goat farm to visitors, offering an intimate glimpse into the world of artisanal cheese-making. This initiative, born from a personal transition from urban life to the tranquility of the mountains, allows guests to actively participate in the traditional milking process and understand the craft behind producing authentic mountain cheeses. Gaëlle and her herd of "girls," as she affectionately calls them, are dedicated to producing a range of high-quality cheeses, including the renowned Tomme and raclette. These artisanal products are available for tasting directly at the farm, providing an authentic sensory experience, and are also featured at the weekly village market, offering a direct connection to the rhythms of everyday mountain life. This experience taps into a growing consumer interest in farm-to-table concepts and the provenance of food.
Equine Therapy and Riding in Le Grand-Bornand
Le Grand-Bornand, renowned for its winter sports, is also emerging as a hub for therapeutic and recreational activities centered around horses. Amanda Locatelli, founder of the Equit’Horizon riding center in the serene Bouchet Valley, is leveraging the well-documented empathetic nature of horses to facilitate therapeutic, educational, and learning objectives for a diverse clientele. The center offers horse riding for all ages and abilities, starting from three years old, alongside specialized equine therapy sessions designed for more vulnerable individuals. These programs aim to foster unique bonds between humans and horses, supporting those with disabilities, learning difficulties, or social challenges to achieve positive personal growth and transformation. Equine therapy is increasingly recognized for its effectiveness in building confidence, improving communication, and promoting emotional well-being. Sessions are priced at approximately €45 per hour, making this accessible to a broad audience seeking holistic wellness.
For the Adventurous: Pushing Boundaries in Mountain Sports
The Grand Raid Kiprun 3 Vallées Moûtiers: A New Frontier in Trail Running
From July 30th to August 2nd, the Belleville Valley will host the inaugural Grand Raid Kiprun 3 Vallées Moûtiers, a significant new event on the trail running calendar. This multi-stage race series features seven distinct events, with four routes specifically designed within the Valléee des Belleville. The organizers have meticulously crafted distances to accommodate a wide range of participants, from novice runners to seasoned ultra-marathoners, with the most challenging being a formidable 172km race boasting an impressive 12,000 meters of elevation gain. A key differentiator of this event is its emphasis on high-altitude starts, a feature that remains relatively rare in the trail running circuit. Two of the races will commence from the commanding heights of Cime Caron (3,200 meters) and Pointe de la Masse (2,804 meters), promising participants an unparalleled high-altitude running experience. This strategic positioning at extreme altitudes is expected to attract elite athletes and adventurers seeking a unique challenge, further enhancing the profile of the Belleville Valley as a premier destination for extreme sports. The event’s website, https://www.grandraid-3vallees.com, provides detailed information on race registration and logistics.
Deluxe Hiking in the Italian Dolomites: The Curona de Gherdëina
For those seeking a more immersive yet comfortable exploration of alpine landscapes, the Italian Dolomites offer the Curona de Gherdëina, a five-day self-guided trekking tour. This route is celebrated as one of North Italy’s most spectacular trekking journeys, traversing five iconic Dolomite massifs: the Odle peaks, the Puez plateau, the Sella massif, Sassolungo, and the Alpe di Siusi. Covering approximately 60 kilometers, the tour completes a full loop of Val Gardena, showcasing some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Dolomites. The "Deluxe" version distinguishes itself from traditional hut-to-hut trekking by combining high-alpine hikes with comfortable overnight stays in valley-based hotels, guesthouses, or apartments. This approach appeals to hikers who desire to experience the grandeur of the mountains during the day and enjoy the comforts of modern accommodation in the evening. The accessibility of the tour is enhanced by a comprehensive network of cable cars, bus connections, and the complimentary Val Gardena Mobil Card, which facilitates easy travel between individual stages and offers convenient starting points at the base or summit of various lift stations. Further details are available at www.valgardena.it.
Verti Grand-Bo: A New Vertical Challenge
Le Grand-Bornand is introducing the Verti Grand-Bo on June 27th, a novel trail running event focused on vertical ascent. Participants can choose between a 4-hour or a 6-hour challenge, competing individually or as part of a team. The unique course involves a 1.8-kilometer segment with a 412-meter vertical climb, linking the base of the La Joyère cable car to its summit. Competitors will ascend this route repeatedly, utilizing the cable car for descent between runs. This innovative format, developed in association with local runner Iris Pessey, offers a concentrated test of endurance and climbing prowess. Information regarding registration and event details can be found at https://en.legrandbornand.com/what-to-do/events-and-entertainment/highlights/verti-grand-bo/.
For Foodies: A Taste of Alpine Gastronomy
Authentic Cheese Making at La Ferme de Lorette, Annecy Mountains
Nestled high above the valley on the protected Beauregard plateau, a Natura 2000 site, lies La Ferme de Lorette. This family-run farm, established in 1919, has been dedicated to cheese production on the same land for over a century. More than just a farm, La Ferme de Lorette offers an experience designed to encourage visitors to slow down, observe, taste, and appreciate the richness of authentic Alpine farming practices. Located just an hour and a half from Geneva, this summer destination provides an exceptional opportunity to connect with nature and savor the region’s culinary heritage. This initiative highlights the growing trend of agritourism, where visitors seek authentic experiences linked to food production and rural life. More information is available at www.annecymountains.com.
Le Grenier Opens its Doors in Belleville Valley
Summer 2026 marks the debut season for Le Grenier, a new restaurant opening at Hôtel Saint Martin in the Belleville Valley. This establishment is committed to showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, presented in a relaxed bistro atmosphere. Its prime location at the foot of mountain bike trails and the village gondola makes it an ideal and convenient stop for lunch or dinner, offering stunning mountain vistas from its terrace. With menus starting from €16, Le Grenier aims to provide accessible yet high-quality dining experiences, reflecting the region’s commitment to promoting local produce and culinary traditions. Reservations and further details can be found at https://legrenier-stmartin.com/.
July Beer Festivals: A Toast to Alpine Brews
The summer calendar features two notable beer festivals celebrating local craft brewing. On July 24th and 25th, Saint Martin de Belleville will host a pop-up festival showcasing the beers from Brava Vela, complete with live music and a festive atmosphere. Across the border in Italy, on July 25th, the Gherdëina Craft Beer Festival in Ortisei, Val Gardena, will celebrate a wide array of homebrews and fine ales. This Italian event promises extensive tastings and expertly paired food options, highlighting the burgeoning craft beer scene in the Alps.
For Families: Engaging Mountain Experiences for All Ages
OVO Network Expands "Cool for Kids" Chalet Portfolio
OVO Network continues to enhance its family-friendly offerings with several new chalets designated as "Cool for Kids." Chalet RevAlp in Combloux features a sauna, hot tub, and gym, providing ample amenities for relaxation and entertainment. Chalet Anthocyane in La Clusaz boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool, sauna, and gym, promising a luxurious family getaway. Chalet Le Jorat in Les Contamines-Montjoie, an architecturally designed property, includes a Nordic bath and dedicated Cycling Friendly facilities, catering to active families. Many of these chalets are also spacious enough to accommodate multi-generational holidays or groups of families traveling together.
New "Chalet Nivalis" in Valmeinier for Summer Retreats
Also new for the summer season is Chalet Nivalis in Valmeinier. This high-end, four-star chalet is designed to offer an exceptional mountain experience during the warmer months. It features an outdoor hot tub, a games room with table football, a PlayStation, and an outdoor dining area with a barbecue. Located near the village center and holding the Cycling Friendly label, it provides convenience and amenities for active holidays. A seven-night rental for up to eight guests is priced at £2157 (approximately £270 per person based on eight sharing), with departures available from July 25th. Complementing this is Chalet Sisar, near La Clusaz, a secluded property offering an outdoor hot tub, table football, and an outdoor dining area, with hiking and mountain biking trails directly accessible from the doorstep. A seven-night rental for up to 12 guests at Chalet Sisar costs £3456 (approximately £288 per person).
"My Mountain Adventure" Programme in the Belleville Valley
Returning from July 6th to August 28th, the "My Mountain Adventure" program in the Belleville Valley offers structured activities for children and teenagers aged 3 to 17. Operated by ESF Les Menuires, the program encompasses nature discovery, outdoor sports, and adventure activities tailored to different age groups. Offerings range from introductory mountain experiences to more adrenaline-fueled pursuits like rafting and canyoning. Prices start from €40 per half-day session, providing accessible adventure for younger visitors.
Val Gardena: A Family-Centric Alpine Destination
Val Gardena in Italy actively embraces families with a wealth of child-friendly activities and facilities. Nearly every mountain hut is equipped with a playground, and villages and their connecting paths feature additional play areas. For the more adventurous, the Emozion Col de Flam high ropes course, a small animal zoo, and trampolines are available. The resort also boasts the world’s first 680-meter Fly Line, offering an exhilarating aerial experience. The PanaRaida Adventure Trail on the Santa Cristina plateau provides an interactive walk constructed from natural materials. Furthermore, the Monte Pana Zipline offers a thrilling 1.5-kilometer flight reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h. The Val Gardena Kids Active and Junior Active programs provide guided outdoor activities for children aged 6 to 12 throughout the summer, introducing them to the region’s natural environment through fun and educational experiences led by professional guides. Details are available at www.valgardena.it.
Farm School for Children in Le Grand-Bornand
Le Grand-Bornand offers a unique "Farm School" experience for children aged 5 to 12, designed to immerse them in the customs and practices of country life. This half-day course allows children to engage with farm animals such as piglets, goats, rabbits, hens, and ducks, fostering an understanding of sustainable farming at an 18th-century wooden farmhouse and organic garden. Sessions run from July 4th to August 26th, with morning (9 am-12 pm) and afternoon (2:30 pm-5:30 pm) slots available. The cost is €21 per child, with further information at lasource-legrandbornand.com.
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