Les 2 AlpesIt's not just a legendary ski resort in winter. In summer too, the Isère resort unfurls its 360-degree charms: peaks at 3,400 metres, crystal-clear rivers, spectacular events and a vibrant atmosphere. If you're still hesitating between the mountains and the sea, here are five (excellent) reasons to pack your bags and head up there this summer.
1. Cooling off... naturally
Here, the splash therapy takes on its full meaning. High altitude lakes, open-air pools, torrents and waterfalls: water is everywhere. It trickles, leaps and sparkles. Away from the crowded beaches, you can plunge into a welcome coolness, between white-water sports and lazing around with your feet in the current. At an altitude of 3,400 metres, eternal snow keeps watch over holidaymakers - and the temperature is always mild.
2. Touching the peaks
In just a few minutes, you can climb up to 3,400 m thanks to the all-new new Jandri cable car. Up here, the panoramas stretch as far as the eye can see: the Barre des Écrins, the Aiguille de Venosc, ridges and glaciers. You can stroll along the suspended footbridge at the belvedere, admire the crystals around Lac du Plan, follow the tracks of the chamois on the mountainside paths. And always that feeling of immensity, between sky and peaks.
3. An XXL playground for sports enthusiasts
Les 2 Alpes, it's mountain biking paradise - and not only. With its kilometres of trails, marked runs, modules and renowned Bike Park, the resort attracts riders, traileurs, climbers and paragliders from all over the world. Whether on your own or with the family, you can enjoy a series of downhill runs, challenges and vertical drops, in an ever more spectacular setting.
Special mention must go to the Urban DH 1800 District (26-27 July): a wild urban mountain bike race in the heart of the resort, co-organised with rider Adrien Loron. All in all, a great show to be seen on the giant screen or alongside the slopes.
4. Summer fun for all
Beach volleyball, big air bag, padel, archery, skate park... but also sunrise yoga, open-air cinema or star-studded evenings: the resort plays the eclectic card. The Tourist Office organises free events for young and old all summer long. Add to that summer tobogganing, golf, horror walks and terrace concerts, and you've got a mountain like no other.
5. A top atmosphere
At Les 2 Alpes, holidays are all about conviviality. By day, you can explore the historic villages of Mont de Lans or Venosc by ski lift. By night, a toast on a terraceYou can enjoy a raclette by the lake or dance under the stars. "It's a fast-moving resort, but one that remains authentic. There's something for everyone here. sums up a local restaurateur.
Also not to be missed...
- The Défi de la Muzelle (21-25 July), a high-level trail with a view over the Oisans mountains
- The Hay Festival (2-3 August), an immersion in Alpine traditions
- Ultra-affordable accommodation: from €300 a week for 4 people
- Information, bookings and full programme: www.les2alpes.com