After a disastrous winter season, visiting European ski resorts in summer offers an alternative way to experience the mountains. Famous ski resorts are usually associated with winter holidays. But have you ever wondered what happens to them in summer?

It turns out that you can also rent chalets on the slopes in the warmer months. Even if there’s no skiing there, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. And after a pretty disastrous winter season with little snow, the providers of these ski resorts are keen to present a new season.

Take in the spectacular scenery, experience the mountains and enjoy the brilliant summer sun by booking a stay in one of these chalets.

A paradise for cyclists can be found in Morzine in the French Alps

Only the highest peaks in the Alps are covered in snow during the summer months. They provide a spectacular backdrop for a whole range of sporting activities.

Use the ski lifts and cable cars to access a network of hiking and cycling trails. From 23-24 June 2023, mountain bikers can test their limits on a new two-day gravel course as part of the Pass’Portes du Soleil event. If you prefer to watch, visit us in July when the Tour de France passes through Morzine for the 22nd time.

VIP SKI is opening five of its properties in the ski resort this summer, from the stylish 16-bed Alaska Lodge in the heart of Morzine to five-bedroom The Manoir with en-suite bathrooms, hot tubs and gorgeous views.

A seven-night stay at The Manoir, which starts on 1 July 2023, costs from £455 per person (€524) for two people on a bed and breakfast basis. A seven-night stay at Alaska Lodge, arriving on 1 July 2023, costs from £3,528 (€4,066) in total or £220 p.p. (€254) if 16 people share the lodge on a self-catering basis.

I visited Chalet No. 1 in the French Alps and changed my mind about ski holidays. Dreamy châteaux and green riverbanks: why you should visit France’s Dordogne region this spring.

Enjoy the beauty of late summer in Åre, Sweden

If you want to travel a little later in the year, then Åre in Sweden might be the destination for you. The mountains around this holiday resort show their most beautiful side towards the end of summer and into autumn.

Walk along forest paths between springs with fresh, clean water and lush greenery. Take a short hike from the cable car to the top of Åreskutan or walk along the Kanalleden trail.

A climbing park at Åre-Björnen might satisfy those looking for a bit more of a challenge. But don’t worry if you’re not a climbing expert: There are nine different courses with varying degrees of difficulty.

For those looking for a thrill, the park also offers 11 zip lines, the longest of which is 62 metres long and goes over Björnbacken overlooking Lake Åresjön.

At Copperhill Mountain Lodge you can experience a touch of luxury. High up on the mountain, you have incredible panoramic views and access to a spa with outdoor pools, hot springs and saunas.

Prices in July 2023 start at 1495 kr (€131) per night for a room for two.

Take the train to the Bavarian and Austrian Alps.

As climate change makes the winter season increasingly difficult for ski resorts, many are turning to alternative travel for tourists in the summer months.

If you want to help reduce the carbon emissions that contribute to the disappearance of winter landscapes in the European mountains, why not take the train? Take the NightJet sleeper from Amsterdam to Innsbruck and Vienna, or stay overnight in Munich and take the train to Bavaria as the morning light illuminates the spectacular landscape.

Continue by local transport to reach some of the best resorts in the Bavarian and Austrian Alps.

Stay in a traditional hotel in Berchtesgaden, on the border with Salzburg in Austria. The balconies of the Alpenhotel Kronprinz look out over a rolling green meadow that lies directly above Berchtesgaden – Germany’s only alpine national park.