High Octane Summer Activities in Val d’Isere

Beautiful Val d’Isere may be better known as an Alpine skiing holiday destination in the winter, but its location in the Tarentaise Valley makes it a desirable vacation spot throughout the summer months as well.

Booking a catered chalet in this area of south eastern France provides a convenient base from which high energy, heart-stopping activities can be enjoyed all summer long and by all ages. Here are some exciting excursions to keep you active throughout your vacation.

Canyoning

Enjoy a warm, summers’ day plunging into mountain streams through a series of repelling descents, jumps and natural water slides. With the help of a guide, you will make your way down rivers and over rapids, using the river bed as a natural obstacle course. There are a number of paths to choose from around Val d’Isere, including easier and shorter routes for beginners, to the longer, more difficult ones for the more experienced and adventurous.

Canyoning is recommended for anyone over the age of 8 who is comfortable in water and swims at a beginner’s level as a minimum. Also, children under 14 may require the accompaniment of an adult.

Glacier Walking

After enjoying breakfast at your catered chalet, get out into the fresh mountain air and experience the stunning views of the Grand Motte or Pissaillas glaciers as you hike the Espace Killy. There are a number of hiking routes throughout the area and most mountain guide outfits offer organised excursions through the most accessible areas.

Mountain Biking

What’s a summer mountain holiday without mountain biking? Val d’Isere offers varying terrain throughout the area and wonderful views for the ultimate mountain biking experience. Whether you prefer a relaxing cycle around the lower level trails, or an adrenaline-rushing ride down the side of a mountain, this part of the French Alps is sure to satisfy the needs of every mountain biking enthusiast.

Rock Climbing

Challenge yourself as you take on some authentic rock climbing in Val d’Isere. If you are a beginner, get suited up with one of many local adventure companies and start climbing with a guide who will teach you the techniques needed to climb safely.

For the more experienced, rent some equipment and tackle some of the area’s great climbing sites. Loads of fun for the whole family, you will no doubt build up an appetite after a day of rock climbing, in time to enjoy a delicious dinner at your catered chalet.

White Water Rafting

From mid-May to September mountain rivers flow fast and furious as they receive a constant supply of water from melting glaciers. This provides the perfect conditions for an exciting white water rafting excursion with your group, led by a trained guide who will take you down some of the best routes in the Alps. You’ll have a choice of a three-hour or full day rafting experience that will be remembered for years to come.

Paragliding

Known as "parapenting" in France, you will get a birds’ eye view of Val D’Isere paragliding tandem with an experienced instructor. Choose from a few companies waiting to take you to new heights, and delight in panoramic views of breath-taking Val D’Isere.

Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service that has been helping avid skiers craft their perfect winter holiday for over a quarter of a century. If you're looking for the best catered chalet accommodation in the Three Valleys, Paradiski, Espace Killy or Chamonix Valley, Ski Amis is the go-to company for winter sports fans searching for the holiday of a lifetime.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.