If you had to name some summer mountain activities, what would you say? Hiking — and more hiking? Or perhaps something else?
Hiking certainly belongs on the must-do list at altitude, but it is only the tip of the iceberg.
When the mountains slip into their summer colours, a mosaic of landscapes unfolds — from sheer cliffs to gentler slopes and rivers — each offering its own delights!
Whether you are a quiet observer or all-out energetic, you will always find a hiking boot, climbing shoe, white-water bootie or pedal that fits! All you have to do is set off.
Summer mountain activities in slow-life mode
Far from the cliché of endless, exhausting walks, hiking has reinvented itself to let us discover a mountain full of resources and surprises — sometimes a source of calm, sometimes of learning, sometimes of creativity.
Indeed, a hike can be a chance to take an interest in medicinal plants and their uses, to reflect on how landscapes evolve and our human responsibility for them, or even to enjoy an impromptu Land Art session!
Many other disciplines that need no specific equipment can also be practised easily out in nature. The benefits you feel will be many times greater in such surroundings. Just imagine: a yoga session facing the Mont Blanc versus your YouTube tutorial, or a jog along a balcony road versus an indoor treadmill… Convinced?
Summer mountain activities to enjoy gravity
On a playground where slope is one of the main draws, plenty of disciplines let you ride the gradient. Some of these alternative gliding sports can even feel reminiscent of skiing on snow.
Electric or downhill bikes, mountain karts, mountain boards or devalbikes — these more or less hybrid machines never stop surprising us and guarantee great sessions blending exploration and a shot of adrenaline, which only adds to the fun. They let you cover ground far quicker than on foot, of course, and reach areas inaccessible by car. One to add to your holiday “to-do list”.
Mountain AND water activities
If a summer heatwave has you craving a cool-down, head down to the valley and its rivers. With a flow that is generally strong thanks to snowmelt, white-water sports are anything but tame!
Choose your stretch of river carefully, depending on whether you prefer gentle currents or churning rapids. Rafting, canyoning, raft canoe or hydrospeed — these mountain activities are inclusive and team-based, or at least practised in a group. There is real pleasure in being carried by the group dynamic: an ideal driver for forging or strengthening bonds and pushing yourself!
Summer mountain activities to defy gravity
For those who want to climb ever higher, get closer to the elements, flirt with the void and play tightrope walker, the mountain has plenty in store, including climbing, bouldering, via ferrata and alpine routes.
Depending on the venue and route chosen, these are accessible to beginners and even children, for spicier family outings — because the one you might expect to struggle is not always the one who actually does…
One thing is certain: once you reach the summit, the satisfaction of the view will give you a well-earned sense of well-being and fulfilment.
Discover our summer mountain activities for the perfect family holiday.
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