When you think of family holidays in the French Alps, snowy slopes might come to mind first. But trust us—summer is an absolute gem for families looking for fresh air, stunning scenery, and fun activities for all ages. From lakeside adventures to mountain playparks, horse riding, and splash zones, the Alps transform into a giant outdoor playground during the school holidays.
If you’re planning your family holidays this summer, here’s how to spend the perfect day in the French Alps with your kids.
Morning: Lakes, Playgrounds & Easy Adventure
Start your day with some gentle exploration. Whether you’re staying in Tignes, Morzine, Les Gets, or Alpe d’Huez, most Alpine resorts have fantastic kids clubs and play areas that let little ones burn off energy while parents sip coffee with a view.
In Tignes, make a beeline for Tignes Lake, which is the star of the show in summer. The floating water park ‘Acroland’ here has slides, trampolines, and climbing walls that your kids will love. Older children (and adventurous parents) can try stand-up paddleboarding or pedalos.
Prefer a slower start? Head to Lac des Écoles in Les Gets—a safe swimming lake with a beach area, lifeguards, and inflatable water games. It’s perfect for smaller children who want to splash without the waves.
Pro tip: Bring a picnic and grab a shady spot nearby. Most resorts have scenic tables with panoramic views—and some even have BBQ zones for public use. Don’t forget your sunscreen!’
Lunchtime: Family-Friendly Restaurants or a Picnic with a View
For lunch, you’ve got options galore. Try La Païka in Les Gets—accessible via a family-friendly walking path—and known for its relaxed terrace and huge grill. In Morzine, La Rotonde has a fab kids’ menu and a garden where children can play while you enjoy a glass of rosé.
If you’re up the mountain, consider packing a picnic. Some of the best picnic spots are along the trails or at the top of a gondola ride—easily reached with a summer lift pass.
And remember, no one likes lugging lunch bags and tired kids on public transport, so private transfers are an absolute lifesaver for family holidays. Door-to-door service means no wrestling with suitcases or dragging kids across stations. It’s seamless, stress-free, and worth every penny.
Afternoon: Animal Encounters, Pool Time & Learning Fun
After lunch, it’s time for a mix of activities to keep the fun flowing. Little animal lovers will love horse riding in resorts like Samoëns, where you’ll find pony rides, mini farms, and forest trails perfect for beginners.
Fancy something educational? Head to La Maison du Parc National in Pralognan-la-Vanoise or the Musée de la Faune in Les Saisies—interactive nature and wildlife centres where kids can get hands-on with Alpine learning.
When the heat kicks in, cool off at one of the Alps’ best pools:
Late Afternoon: Zip Lines, Playparks & Ice Cream Stops
Before dinner, squeeze in a little more adventure! Many resorts offer kids clubs in the afternoon, where trained staff lead everything from treasure hunts to mini-Olympics. Great for giving parents a little downtime too.
Zip lines, tree-top adventure parks, and bobsleigh tracks (like the Luge 4 Saisons in La Plagne) are great for thrill-seeking families with older kids.
Don’t miss a stop for glacier-fresh ice cream in town. Try Milk & Honey in Morzine or Le Glacier in Alpe d’Huez for a seriously tasty treat.
Dinner & Wind Down
Round off your perfect family holidays day with an early dinner at a mountain restaurant with views over the valley. Many places cater to children with simple but hearty meals—think pasta, crepes, and homemade burgers.
If you’re not ready to call it a night, lots of resorts host evening events during the summer holidays—open-air cinema, live music, or local festivals with games and entertainment for kids. Check your local tourist office or event calendar.
Final Tips for Stress-Free Family Holidays in the French Alps
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Private transfers make all the difference—especially when juggling bags, buggies, and small humans.
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Book kids clubs in advance—they fill up quickly in peak weeks.
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Bring water shoes for lake days and a mix of layers for unpredictable mountain weather.
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Most resort tourist offices offer activity passes—these are worth grabbing early and can save you money.
So, whether your crew loves splashing in lakes, riding ponies, or learning about local wildlife, family holidays in the French Alps offer something for everyone. The mountains may be famous for skiing, but summer is when they come alive for kids of all ages.
Ready to make some unforgettable summer memories? The Alps are calling!
