Summer in Briançon & Serre Chevalier
Explore
on Wheels
Road Biking
Briancon sits at the foot of some of the most iconic road climbs in the business, such as the Col du Galibier, Izoard and Lautaret. The Tour de France passes through regularly. You can explore all this straight from the chalet door.
Mountain Karting
The whole family can enjoy some alpine adrenaline together with the mountain karts. Using the ski lifts here in Serre Chevalier, you'll descend through forests, meadows and stunning ridgelines...
Quad Biking
Explore the forests, ancient forts and incredible mountain views by quad or off road buggies.
Mountain Biking
Briancon really is a mountain biking paradise, with more sunshine than anywhere else in the high alps, and a huge network of incredible trails to suit all abilities.
Accessing the mountain is easy too, with ski lifts and bike parks open from June to mid September, both here in Serre Chevalier and also in nearby Montgenevre, Bardonnechia, La Grave and Valloire.
We have secure bike storage and a workshop at the chalet and we can sort you out with rental bikes too.
Road and mountain biking is also covered by Bike Alp, a separate business run by the same people from this address: bike-alp.com.
Kayaking
There are endless options for kayaking in Briancon and the surrounding valleys. Tackle the white water and slalom gates on the Durance, or take it more leisurely in the beautiful Nevache valley and mountain lakes. The chalet is equipped with wash areas and storage for kayaks & wetsuits
Thermal Spa
If the chalet Jacuzzi just isn't enough, then the thermal springs at nearby Monetier-le-Bain will do the trick. Large indoor and outdoor pools sitting under the glaciers of the Ecrins are the perfect place to unwind...
White-water Rafting
You won't find any better venue in the alps for white water rafting than the renowned Durance river which charges through Briancon throughout the summer. Packages for all levels mean everyone can enjoy a bit of adrenaline on the water.
On the
Water
Paddle Boarding
Several mountain lakes offer an epic place for some paddle boarding, kayaking or wake boarding.
Fishing
Either heading out by yourself, or taking a guided trip with instruction, the rivers and mountain lakes surrounding Briancon provide a fishing experience with a view!
Hiking
Hiking doesn't get any better than the endless adventure of the Hautes Alpes. On our doorstep is an epic mountain wilderness of forests, ridgelines, alpine meadows and glaciers, all set in the sunniest climate of the alps, with over 300 days of sunshine a year.
Either set off from the door, or take the cable cars which run throughout the summer, up to 3200m in altitude! We can point you in the right direction whatever your ability.
Explore
the Heights
Via ferrata
Either self guided or guided, these legendary climbing routes with foot and hand holds bolted into the rock, mean even a complete novice can reach the lofty heights normally reserved for only the experts...
Paragliding
The huge surrounding mountains of Briancon are the perfect setting for paragliding, where affordable tandem flights run throughout the summer.
Hot Air Balloon
Take a stunning balloon ride over the Briancon citadel and fortifications - available summer and winter.
Sports Climbing
Whether bouldering, big mountain climbing or scaling the local forts, the local valleys have it all. We can help you with kit rental or climbing guides for all levels during your stay.
Art & Culture
The ancient forts and citadel of Briancon are completely unique in the Alps, giving a very different experience to your typical mountain resort. You can visit museums and galleries explaining the amazing history of the area, local arts and crafts shops, geology centres and many festivals and shows throughout the summer.
Wildlife
The nearby Ecrins national park is one of the wildest places in the Alps and home to majestic Ibex, Eagles and vultures. Marmottes are also a constant companion on local hikes and there's even a spot where they like to be fed by hand!
History &
Heritage
Local Food
Forget your typical ski resort fare - Briancon is home to a wealth of high end local and international cuisine.
The huge outdoor market which runs twice a week throughout the summer is a must!
Architecture
The stunning Cite Vauban - the historical Citadel of Briancon - dates from the 16th century and is still the highest city in France. Explore the winding cobbled streets and incredible architecture.
Fortifications
It may seem like the most paranoid town in the Alps, but the massive fortifications throughout the valley once stood guard over this unique town and strategic position on the French / Italian border. Lose yourself exploring the forts and castles from the valleys to the peaks.
