Alps

One of the original destinations for winter sports, The Alps offers breathtaking beauty all year round and is a true paradise for nature lovers.

Majestic Mont Blanc towers above rugged peaks where hikers and climbers rise to the challenges, rewarded with spectacular views. Skiers are spoilt for choice, with Chamonix, Courcheval, Méribel, Val d’Isére and Les Arcs amongst the world’s most prestigious resorts.

From spring and throughout the summer, vivid green meadows are scattered with bright alpine flowers, only cow bells interrupt the peace and crystal rivers rush through forested valleys. Fairytale log cabins boast fantastic views and you can choose one for yourself with French Country Cottages.

Lake Geneva provides a natural border with Switzerland and the spa town of Evian-les-Bains is one of the pretty little places strung along the French shore, where cruises are available across this vast alpine sea. Ancient Annecy is another lakeside gem while Chambery and Briancon also have charming old quarters to explore.

The Alps has it’s share of delicious specialities, from traditional fondue and raclette to creamy Dauphinois potatoes and comforting ‘tartiflette’, accompanied with the wines of the Rhône Valley and Jura.

Highlights

• Chamonix – take the vertiginous ‘Téléphérique’ cable car to Aiguille du Midi and, from spring to the autumn, continue on the panoramic Mont Blanc cable car to Pointe Helbronner on the Italian border.
• Annecy – criss-cross the Canal du Thiou in the cobbled streets of the ‘Vieille Ville’ and stroll by the manicured lawns along the lake shore, maybe taking a boat trip or an evening dinner cruise.
• Winter sports – take your pick of the famous mountain resorts for ski-ing and snowboarding on exhilarating runs and more gradual slopes to suit all ages, abilities and experience, then enjoy the traditional ‘après ski’.
• Summer activities – follow stunning hiking trails in the mountains and national parks or try adrenalin activities including white-water rafting, canoeing and canyoning.
• A health kick – tour the Chartreuse distillery in Voiron to try the herbal elixirs with a kick, up to 71% proof!

Chamonix

Your nearest airports - Geneva, Chambery.