Walking Holidays in the Portes du Soleil

Despite the hugh number of activities on offer in the Alps during the summer months a large number of visitors come for the walking. You don't have to be an accomplished mountaineer, nor super fit to take advantage of the wealth or walks available and the stunning scenery. Anyone who is comfortable with a 2 hour stroll will be able to take advantage of the walks in this fabulous region.

Located at the northern end of the Alps (1hr 20 mins from Geneva), and stretching across the boarder between France and Switzerland is the Massif du Chablais, boardered by the shore of Lake Geneva (Lac Leman) is the Portes du Soleil - (Gateway to the sun). Most famous for being Europe's largest internationally linked ski domain, it offers an amazing variety of walking during the summer months, ranging from family-friendly strolls through the alpine meadows to some tougher climbs or overnight treks staying in a mountain refuge.

Many of the chairlifts, cable cars and gondolas run during the summer months (June to September) taking you up the slopes so that you can enjoy the views across the Rhone valley or across to Mont Blanc as you walk between the different cols. There is a well maintained network of 800 km of hiking paths, mountain huts and cafes ranging from  a gentle stoll up the Tey valley or up through the forest to the Lac Arvoine to the somewhat more arduous Tour du Mont de Grange - 9 hours! You can also hire a mountain guide on a day by day basis.

Staying at La Ferme du Chateau, which is in the centre of the village of La Chapelle d'Abondance, at the heart of the walking in the Abondance valley, you can have complete flexibility. You can stay on a B&B basis or half board - self catered is available on a whole chalet basis. As the owner I am on hand to help you organize guides, trips, restaurants, transport etc so that you can relax and enjoy your holiday; we even have a laundry service so that you don't have to bring too much with you!

If you want to make the most of the walking in this amazing region and have your accommodation offer a little extra in the way of comfort, space and luxury, then look no further. Prices start from £32 pppn B&B.

If you would like to see some sample walks then please email me at info@savoiefaire.co.uk