A Brief Guide to Les Deux Alpes in Summer
Perched high in the French Alps at over 1,650 meters altitude, Les Deux Alpes is best known as a winter ski haven — but summer here is equally spectacular. This vibrant alpine village transforms when the snow melts, becoming a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning glacier, expansive hiking trails, and thrilling mountain sports, Les Deux Alpes offers a refreshing mountain escape amid wildflower meadows and crystal-clear alpine lakes.
Originally a small farming community, the area saw its transformation in the mid-20th century as skiing grew in popularity. The nearby glacier made it one of the few resorts open year-round for skiing, and in recent decades the summer season has expanded with biking, climbing, and cultural events attracting visitors from across Europe.
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Top Attractions in Les Deux Alpes
- Glacier Skiing & Snowpark – Experience skiing or snowboarding on the glacier even in summer. The Les Deux Alpes glacier is one of Europe’s largest and best-equipped for summer snow sports, with a fantastic snowpark for freestyle lovers.
- Hiking Trails – Explore over 200 km of marked hiking trails through alpine meadows, pine forests, and rugged mountain landscapes. Popular routes include the climb to Mont de Lans and scenic walks around Lac Noir.
- VTT Mountain Biking – Les Deux Alpes is a mountain biking hotspot with downhill trails, cross-country routes, and bike parks catering to all skill levels. Bike rental and guided tours are widely available.
- Via Ferrata & Climbing – For an adrenaline rush, try the via ferrata routes or rock climbing on limestone cliffs offering panoramic views of the Oisans valley.
- Lac Noir (Black Lake) – A peaceful alpine lake perfect for picnics, paddleboarding, or a refreshing swim after a day outdoors.
Best Areas to Explore in Les Deux Alpes
- Village Centre – Bustling with shops, cafés, and restaurants, it’s the perfect base for your stay.
- Venosc – A charming medieval village just a few minutes away, with cobbled streets and authentic alpine architecture.
- Alpe d’Huez – Nearby and famous for its cycling heritage, it’s a great day trip for exploring more mountain trails and stunning viewpoints.
Things to Do in Les Deux Alpes
- Take the Cable Car to 3,600 meters for spectacular views of the Alps and easy access to the glacier.
- Try Paragliding — tandem flights offer breathtaking aerial views over the mountains and valley.
- Join Yoga or Wellness Classes held outdoors with mountain backdrops.
- Visit Local Festivals celebrating alpine culture, food, and music during summer weekends.
- Enjoy Alpine Cuisine at mountain huts or village restaurants, featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh produce.
Family-Friendly Activities in Les Deux Alpes
- Mini Golf and Adventure Parks located near the village for all ages.
- Swimming Pools and Splash Parks offer a fun break from hiking.
- Electric Bike Rentals for easy family excursions on gentle trails.
- Horse Riding through scenic alpine paths.
- Nature Workshops and guided family hikes to discover local flora and fauna.
Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Les Deux Alpes
- Sunset Picnic at Mont de Lans with panoramic mountain views.
- Dinner at a Mountain Refuge accessible by foot or cable car, enjoying traditional Savoyard dishes by candlelight.
- Couples’ Spa Day at one of the resort’s wellness centres with massages and hot tubs.
- Evening Stroll Through Venosc soaking up the village charm and starry skies.
For Solo Travellers in Les Deux Alpes
- Join Group Hikes or Mountain Biking Tours to meet fellow adventurers.
- Attend Summer Workshops like photography, climbing, or yoga.
- Relax at Local Cafés or bars where locals and visitors mingle.
- Explore Alpine Museums to learn about the region’s history and mountain culture.
Popular Events in Les Deux Alpes
- Les Deux Alpes Mountain Festival (July) — Music, outdoor sports, and family fun with workshops and live entertainment.
- Trail Running Races (Summer) — Challenging races through alpine trails attracting athletes from across Europe.
- International Freestyle Festival (August) — Celebrating extreme sports with competitions on the glacier snowpark.
- Local Markets (Weekly in Summer) — Sample regional products including cheese, honey, and fresh produce.
Les Deux Alpes Resort FAQs
What makes Les Deux Alpes a popular resort in the summer?
Les Deux Alpes is a bit of a summer playground in the French Alps! It’s got this perfect mix of mountain adventure and chilled-out alpine charm. You can go hiking, biking, glacier skiing (yep, even in summer!), or just relax with a drink and soak in the views. Plus, the resort has a really sociable vibe and lots going on, so you’re never short of things to do.
Is Les Deux Alpes expensive during the summer?
Compared to peak winter ski season, summer is actually way more affordable in Les Deux Alpes. Accommodation is often cheaper, restaurants run good deals, and activity passes give you access to loads without breaking the bank. It’s definitely doable on a reasonable budget!
Is Les Deux Alpes a good summer resort for families with children?
Absolutely! Les Deux Alpes is super family-friendly in summer. There are playgrounds, summer sledging, trampolines, swimming, and even a little animal park. Plus, kids love the cable car rides and easy scenic walks. There’s loads to keep little ones entertained while the grown-ups get to enjoy the mountains too.
Are Les Deux Alpes bars and pubs lively during the summer months?
They sure are! While it’s not quite as wild as winter après-ski, there’s still a great atmosphere in the evenings. You’ll find live music, terrace drinks, DJs, and some late-night spots open for dancing. It’s a fun, friendly scene—perfect for unwinding after a day of mountain adventures.
What are the best restaurants open in Les Deux Alpes during July and August?
Loads of great spots stay open through the summer. Le Rustique is fab for local mountain food, Casa Nostra does great pizzas and pasta, and Le Trappeur is a real gem for hearty dishes with a view. You’ll also find cool cafes and creperies dotted around the village—perfect for casual lunches or post-hike treats.
What is there to do in Les Deux Alpes in the summer?
So much! Think hiking trails, downhill mountain biking, e-biking, glacier skiing in the mornings, golf, paragliding, swimming, and outdoor yoga. There’s also a pump track, climbing walls, and plenty of spots to just chill with a view. You’ll never be bored, promise
What special events does Les Deux Alpes host during the summer?
Les Deux Alpes knows how to put on a show! There’s usually a mix of live music events, sports competitions (like mountain bike races), outdoor yoga sessions, food festivals, and kids’ activities throughout the summer. Plus, the resort often hosts the “Mountain of Hell” bike race, which is epic to watch!
Is Les Deux Alpes a good place to visit in the summer?
100%! Whether you’re into outdoor sports, want a relaxing mountain escape, or are travelling with the family, Les Deux Alpes is a fab choice in summer. It’s lively without being overcrowded, full of sunshine, and surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery.
What is the weather like in Les Deux Alpes during the summer?
Pretty gorgeous! Expect warm, sunny days—perfect for hiking and chilling on a terrace—and cooler evenings that are ideal for sleeping. Daytime temps usually hover around 20–25°C (though it can get hotter), and you’ll get that fresh mountain air the whole time.
Is Les Deux Alpes a good resort for mountain biking and road cycling?
Oh yes, it’s a big hit with cyclists! The resort has a massive mountain biking setup with downhill trails, lifts for bikes, and routes for all levels. Road cyclists also love taking on nearby legendary climbs like Col du Galibier and Col du Lautaret. It’s a bit of a cycling paradise.
Is Les Deux Alpes a popular destination for hiking during the summer months?
Definitely! There are tons of trails ranging from gentle walks to more challenging hikes. Whether you want lakes, forests, or panoramic ridge views, Les Deux Alpes delivers. Plus, the lifts stay open so you can get up high easily and save your legs.
When does the summer season generally start and finish in Les Deux Alpes?
The summer season usually kicks off around late June and runs until the end of August or early September. Glacier skiing is generally open earlier in June, and most activities and events are in full swing by July. It’s a short season, but it packs a punch!
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