Summer in the Alps presents some of the best times to explore nature’s beauty. There’s no better way to do so than on an alpine walking holiday. Luxury walking holidays in Europe are a popular choice for young and old. With countless advantages, from health benefits to incredible photo opportunities, it’s clear to see why. In this blog, we’re showcasing some of the best hikes in Europe to enjoy in the mountains. Featuring alpine treks in France, Italy, Switzerland and Austria, read on to find out some of the best hikes in the Alps and Dolomites, for your next mountain walking holiday…
Tour du Mont Blanc, France
As one of the most iconic walking trails in Europe, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a must for experienced mountain hiking holidays. Covering an incredible 170km, the full trekking trail traverses through France, Italy and Switzerland, looping around the Mont Blanc massif; walk in an anti-clockwise direction to capture the best views of Mont Blanc on this alpine trek!
In total, this multi-day hike in the French Alps takes approximately 11 days to complete. Typically beginning and ending in Les Houches, found within the Chamonix Valley, the full trail circumnavigates through 11 ‘stages’. Each stage is approximately 13km-20km in distance, with 700m-1,000m elevation gain. Authentic mountain refuges are dotted along every 5km, for those needing to refuel and rest tired legs. No mountain climbing skills are required, but the route does encompass uneven terrain, high mountain passes and more. Despite this, families can take on the Tour du Mont Blanc, and with several access points along the trail, it’s not necessary to tackle the entire route. A variety of animals in the Alps are sure to be discovered en-route, certain to please the little ones!
The UTMB Mont Blanc is an event in Chamonix where athletes compete to complete the route in the quickest possible time. This gruelling event features in our summer events calendar – make sure to check other events happening throughout the season!
Whether you choose to tackle a section, or watch UTMB’s professionals in action, consider one of our Chamonix summer chalets. Chamonix is an unmissable holiday destination, and our portfolio includes only the finest chalets in Chamonix.
Sellaronda Hike Tour, Italy
Walking holidays in Italy encapsulate the serenity of mountain living. In particular, hikes in the Dolomites in summer take the crown; unique, majestic landscapes and delectable cuisine combine for the ultimate in luxury walking holidays in Europe.
The Sellaronda Hike Tour is undeniably one of the most famous alpine treks in Europe. Part 600km of hiking trails in the Dolomites, accessed from Val Gardena, it encompasses the incredible and imposing, plateau-like Sella Ronda massif. Renowned for being one of the most famous ski circuits in the world, in winter, this demanding excursion can also be explored during the sunnier season. Featuring over 25km of hiking, and 750m elevation gain, this route traverses four Ladin valleys and three Italian provinces. In total, it takes approximately 7-9 hours to complete. Therefore, the Sellaronda Hike Tour requires excellent physical preparation. As a result, this hike is not recommended for families.
Our chalets in Arabba, Val Gardena and Alta Badia are perfect for luxury walking holidays in the Dolomites! They provide a welcoming stay, accompanied by the rejuvenating wellness facilities you need to soothe tired hiking legs. And for two-wheeled lovers, the Sellaronda Bike Day is also a popular summer event in Italy that’s sure to encourage a return summer holiday to the Dolomites.
Zermatt 5-Seenweg, Switzerland
For lakes and mountains holidays in the Alps, Zermatt’s 5-Seenweg hike is perfect! This moderately difficult walking route in Zermatt incorporates some of the most beautiful lakes in the region. These include the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee. Featuring their own characteristics and special allure, each one is a marvel to enjoy on this 9.8km hike. However, without a doubt they all encapsulate the enchanting alpine panoramas of Zermatt in summer.
If you’re looking for the perfect photo opportunity, the Stellisee, Grindjisee and Leisee lakes all reflect the iconic Matterhorn Mountain peak in their waters. The Leisee lake is also particularly good for swimming, and has a children’s playground and picnic site that’s great for families. For wildlife admirers, the Grindjisee will be a firm favourite, home to a number of rare flowers.
Featuring on our ‘On Yer Hike!’ blog, the ‘5 Lakes’ hike, as it’s referred to in English, is a must on a luxury summer holiday to Zermatt. And what’s better than staying in our luxury summer accommodation in Zermatt, to host your alpine walking holiday?
Arlberg Trail, Austria
Aptly named, the Arlberg Trail really lets you explore the Arlberg in summer. In total, the trail covers an incredible 52.1km, with approximately 40km of walking and the remainder covered by mountain lifts. As a 3-day hike, with 9,550m in elevation difference, the Arlberg Trail demands stamina. However, this is more than repaid by a catalogue of spectacular natural landscapes across the summer resort of St Anton, as well as Lech, and Stuben. The trail is a historical tribute to the region, featuring a number of important milestones, and as such it offers so much more than a typical walking holiday in Europe!
From July to September, the Arlberg Trail lets visitors hike around the Arlberg pass and experience the best of Austria in summer. Additional hikes in Lech, such as the Lechweg Trail and the Green Ring, will be sure to fill the itineraries with walking holidays in the Austrian Alps. Take time to also enjoy a moment’s peace and comfort in our luxury Lech summer chalets, for the ultimate mountain break…
Take a step towards booking luxury walking holidays in Europe with Alps In Luxury! Contact our Summer Alps Specialists via email or by phone to talk through further. Additionally, they can assist with finding the perfect luxury summer accommodation in the Alps to host your stay. From luxury chalets with swimming pools to hot tubs, and more. We can find the perfect summer chalet to ensure you’re well rested after experiencing the best hikes in the Alps…
