Active mountain holidays: the best summer activities

 

When we think of the mountains, we often picture snowy landscapes and ski slopes. Yet summer in the highlands holds just as many surprises! Away from the heat of the cities and the bustle of the coast, the mountains offer the perfect playground for sports and nature enthusiasts.
At CGH Residences & Spas, we offer much more than just accommodation. Between outdoor activities and relaxation, our residences provide spacious apartments, premium services, and a peaceful environment. Whether you are an experienced athlete or enjoy gentler discoveries, your active mountain holiday promises to be both invigorating and exceptional.

Hiking: the must-do summer activity in the mountains

A quintessential mountain holiday activity, hiking immerses you in breathtaking landscapes: high-altitude lakes, majestic scenery, and panoramic ridges. Accessible to everyone, it combines physical activity with moments of contemplation, making for a stay that is both active and soothing.

Scenic hikes in La Rosière, Samoëns, or Châtel

 

 

Mountain biking and e-bikes: guaranteed thrills on two wheels

Bike parks accessible from the residences

For adrenaline seekers as well as those who prefer long rides through nature, the mountains in summer remain a unique adventure playground. Resorts hosting CGH residences, such as Les Carroz, Tignes, or La Plagne, feature some of the best-equipped bike parks in the Alps, suitable for both beginners and seasoned mountain bikers.
On offer are downhill MTB trails with varied layouts, featuring banked turns, wooden bridges, jumps, and technical sections designed to challenge even the most experienced riders. For newcomers, gentler and fully safe circuits allow for an introduction to the sport while enjoying stunning alpine panoramas.
During the summer, some lifts remain open, making it easy to reach the start of the trails and chain multiple descents without unnecessary fatigue. Cross-country enthusiasts can also take advantage of marked circuits that wind through meadows and forests, combining exercise with breathtaking scenery. Whether seeking performance or a more relaxed ride, every outing becomes a true sporting escape.

The rise of electric mountain biking

Electric mountain bikes, or e-bikes, have revolutionized cycling at altitude. With pedal-assist technology, they make steep climbs much easier, opening mountain trails to a much wider audience: families, casual athletes, or curious adventurers seeking new experiences.
In summer, Alpine resorts with CGH residences, such as Les Saisies or Val Cenis, offer trails specifically designed for MTB and e-bikes. These marked routes pass through stunning landscapes, offering the perfect balance between physical activity and sightseeing.
For families, it’s a chance to enjoy a fun, shared outing without worrying about fatigue from long climbs or distances. More athletic riders can use the electric assist to extend their adventures and reach spectacular viewpoints often reserved for expert mountain bikers.
For added convenience, many resorts provide e-bike charging stations along the trails, such as at La Plagne, allowing riders to make the most of their day without worrying about battery life. Electric mountain biking has thus become an essential way to discover the mountains differently, combining fun, accessibility, and full immersion in nature.

 

 

White-water activities for all levels

Whether you’re seeking a first introduction or aiming to push your limits, white-water sports cater to everyone. All descents are supervised by qualified instructors, ensuring both safety and enjoyment for all participants.
Families can choose gentler routes, perfect for introducing children (from around 8 years old) to rafting or canyoning. These experiences allow participants to explore rivers with confidence, in a playful and educational spirit.
For the more adventurous, technical routes are available, featuring powerful rapids, narrow passages, or jumps into natural pools. Whether rafting, hydrospeed, or canyoning, adrenaline is guaranteed for thrill-seekers.
This wide range of itineraries ensures something for every preference: from friendly family adventures to exhilarating sporting challenges, all set within spectacular natural surroundings.

Mountain climbing and via ferrata: activities accessible to everyone

Mountain climbing and via ferrata in the Alps are must-do summer experiences that combine sport and discovery. In resorts like La Rosière, Les Houches, or Tignes, everyone can find a suitable terrain: from safe beginner walls for families and novices to natural cliffs equipped for more experienced climbers.
Supervised by professionals, both young and old can progress safely while enjoying the unique alpine environment.
For those seeking an even more immersive adventure, mountain via ferrata offers a captivating mix of hiking and climbing. Permanently secured to a safety cable, participants traverse ladders, suspension bridges, and metal walkways fixed to the rock. Accessible without prior experience, this vertical activity provides the thrill of mountaineering along with spectacular panoramic views of the Alpine valleys.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun introduction or an enthusiast seeking challenges, summer climbing and via ferrata are perfect ways to explore the Alps from a new perspective.