A Brief Guide to Les Menuires in Summer
Say bonjour to sunshine, fresh mountain air, and alpine adventures! While Les Menuires is famous for its snowy slopes, it’s just as magical when the snow melts. Nestled in the Belleville Valley, this charming resort transforms into a vibrant summer playground bursting with outdoor fun, scenic views, and chilled-out vibes. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the peace and quiet, Les Menuires is the perfect base for your summer mountain escape.
Discover Les Menuires
Welcome to a French Alps gem where adventure meets relaxation! Les Menuires is high up in the Tarentaise Valley, offering breathtaking views, crisp alpine air, and a laid-back atmosphere. With easy access to neighbouring villages and endless trails to explore, you’ll fall in love with its friendly charm and no-fuss approach to summer holidays.
Top Attractions in Les Menuires
- Lac du Lou – A sparkling alpine lake perfect for picnics, walks, and dreamy photos.
- La Croisette – The lively heart of the resort with shops, cafés, and activities galore.
- Mountain Biking Trails – Over 120km of marked tracks for every level of rider.
- The Pointe de la Masse – Take the gondola for stunning panoramic views and a peaceful hike.
Best Areas to Explore in Les Menuires
- Le Plan de l’Eau – A lovely leisure area with a lake, BBQ spots, and kids’ playground.
- Bruyères – A family-friendly zone packed with activities and access to the aquafun centre.
- La Masse – Wild, unspoilt landscapes with incredible views and fewer crowds.
- Saint-Martin-de-Belleville – A nearby traditional village with rustic charm and great food.
Things to Do in Les Menuires
- Try Via Ferrata – A mix of hiking and climbing with fixed cables – thrilling but safe!
- Go Paragliding – Soar like an eagle and see the Alps from a whole new perspective.
- E-bike Adventures – Explore more, sweat less. Rent an electric mountain bike and go!
- Relax at the Sports Centre – Swim, play tennis, unwind in the spa – all under one roof.
Family-Friendly Activities in Les Menuires
- Speed Mountain Toboggan Run – A thrilling ride that kids (and grown-ups) love!
- Mini Golf – A fun way to spend the afternoon with a little friendly competition.
- Nature Trails with Games – Educational hikes designed just for children.
- Aquafun Centre – Water slides, splash zones, and indoor pools for all ages.
Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Les Menuires
- Sunset Picnic at Lac du Lou – Just the two of you, some cheese, and a bottle of wine.
- Couples Spa Treatments – Relax side by side with alpine-inspired wellness.
- Cable Car Ride to La Masse – Get high (literally) and enjoy the views together.
- Dinner with a View – Book a table at one of the cosy mountain restaurants nearby.
For Solo Travellers in Les Menuires
- Join a Guided Hike – Make new friends and learn local secrets along the trails.
- Wellness & Yoga Classes – Recharge your body and mind with a mountain backdrop.
- Photography Walks – Capture wildflowers, wildlife, and incredible landscapes.
- Get Adventurous – Try canyoning, climbing, or book a spontaneous paragliding session!
Popular Events in Les Menuires
- La Fête des Bergers (Shepherds’ Festival) – A celebration of mountain traditions and local food.
- Trail des Belleville – A high-energy mountain trail race with stunning views.
- Concerts at Altitude – Live music in the fresh alpine air – bring your dancing shoes!
- Weekly Kids’ Activities – Free entertainment and workshops throughout summer.
Les Menuires Resort FAQs
What makes Les Menuires a popular resort in the summer?
Les Menuires might be best known for its snowy slopes, but it’s a hidden gem in summer too! Tucked in the Belleville Valley, this village transforms into a peaceful alpine retreat full of sunshine, fresh air, and stunning mountain views. With loads of outdoor activities, chilled vibes, and fewer crowds than winter, it’s perfect for anyone wanting an active or relaxing summer escape.
Is Les Menuires expensive during the summer?
Not at all! In fact, Les Menuires is one of the more budget-friendly Alpine resorts in summer. Accommodation is generally cheaper than in peak ski season, and many activities like hiking or using the lifts are either free or included in multi-activity passes. Plus, local restaurants and shops often have great summer deals.
Is Les Menuires a good summer resort for families with children?
Absolutely! Les Menuires is super family-friendly. There’s a big focus on outdoor fun with plenty of child-friendly hikes, adventure playgrounds, and even a fun pool complex at the sports centre. Many of the summer activities are designed with kids in mind, like pony rides, mountain biking trails for little ones, and the fab “Speed Mountain” toboggan run.
Are Les Menuires bars and pubs lively during the summer months?
While it’s a bit more low-key than winter, you’ll still find a friendly après vibe in summer. A handful of bars and pubs stay open with sunny terraces, live music nights, and themed evenings – perfect for unwinding after a day in the mountains. It’s more chilled than rowdy, but still a good time!
What are the best restaurants open in Les Menuires during July and August?
There are plenty of cosy spots and sunny terraces to enjoy in summer. Look out for La Fromagerie des Belleville for gooey Savoyard classics, or grab a pizza with a view at Le Belleville. L’Antigel is a great mountain restaurant that’s open in summer and perfect for a lunch stop on a hike. The vibe is relaxed, and you’ll definitely eat well.
What is there to do in Les Menuires in the summer?
Tons! Hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, fishing, archery, trail running, and even wellness activities like yoga. The sports centre has a pool, spa, and gym, and there are plenty of events and kids’ activities going on too. Whether you’re after adventure or chill time, there’s something for everyone.
What special events does Les Menuires host during the summer?
Each summer, Les Menuires hosts a variety of fun events and festivals. There’s usually a mountain biking weekend, local food markets, live music evenings, and activities tied to traditional Savoyard culture. The event calendar changes a bit year to year, but you’ll always find something happening to add a little extra to your holiday.
Is Les Menuires a good place to visit in the summer?
Definitely! It’s laid-back, affordable, and packed with outdoor activities. Whether you’re into sport, nature, or just fancy some mountain air and sunshine, Les Menuires is a brilliant choice for a summer break – especially if you want to escape the more touristy resorts.
What is the weather like in Les Menuires during the summer?
Expect warm days, cool nights, and plenty of sunshine! Daytime temperatures are usually in the low to mid-20s°C (perfect for hiking), but it can drop in the evenings – so pack a hoodie! Thunderstorms can roll through occasionally, but generally, it’s gorgeous alpine weather.
Is Les Menuires a good resort for mountain biking and road cycling?
Yes, and yes! Les Menuires is part of the larger 3 Vallées area, so there are loads of marked trails for mountain biking of all levels – from smooth family rides to technical downhill. Road cyclists also love tackling the nearby mountain passes, especially the Col de la Loze and Col de la Madeleine.
Is Les Menuires a popular destination for hiking during the summer months?
Very much so. The hiking is incredible here, with well-marked trails for all fitness levels. You can wander through flower-filled meadows, explore high alpine lakes, or hike up to panoramic viewpoints. There’s also a handy lift system open in summer to make higher trails more accessible.
When does the summer season generally start and finish in Les Menuires?
The summer season in Les Menuires usually kicks off around late June and runs until early September. Exact dates can vary depending on snow melt and lift operations, but July and August are the peak summer months when everything’s open and buzzing.
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