Imagine a place where the sun shines for more than 300 days a year, where mountain air is as pure as it comes and forests of larch give way to high‑alpine meadows. Serre Chevalier, often celebrated for its winter sports, is a year‑round playground. When the snow melts, this valley in the southern French Alps transforms into a green paradise with sparkling rivers, quiet lakes and endless trails. In this long‑form guide we’ll explore the best summer activities for families, thrill‑seekers and wellness seekers, mixing practical tips with local insight. Whether you dream of tackling white‑water rapids, free‑wheeling down purpose‑built trails or soaking in a thermal pool with views of the peaks, Serre Chevalier has an adventure waiting.

Why Read This Guide?

Serre Chevalier is often described as the largest ski area in the southern Alps, yet its off‑season is just as impressive. Many travellers overlook summer, believing that mountain resorts hibernate once the lifts stop running. In reality, June through September offers a different kind of magic – think long daylight hours, warm temperatures and fewer crowds. This post will show you how to make the most of a summer visit, highlight activities you may not have considered and help you decide if Serre Chevalier is right for your next trip. By the end you’ll know where to go rafting, which trails suit your cycling ability, why organic bathing is trending and how to mix adventure with relaxation. Should you decide to act on the inspiration, we’ve included a call to book your own Serre Chevalier adventure.

Serre Chevalier at a Glance

Before diving into specific activities, it helps to understand what makes this valley special. Serre Chevalier encompasses several villages – Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve and Le Monêtier‑les‑Bains – each with its own character. In winter the ski area covers about 250 km of marked runs In summer, the same lifts open to hikers and mountain bikers. The north‑facing slopes and extensive snowmaking network give the resort reliable snow in winter, while the high elevation and clear skies result in dry, sunny summers. The villages link along the Guisane valley, with Briançon’s UNESCO‑listed fortifications at one end and natural hot springs at Le Monêtier at the other. This combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes the area feel both authentic and invigorating.

Fast Facts

Sunshine: More than 300 days of sun annually, ideal for outdoor activities.
Larch Forests: Endless larch forests provide shade in summer and glorious colour in autumn.
Mountain Villages: Four distinct villages offer different atmospheres – Briançon’s history, Chantemerle’s convenience, Villeneuve’s relaxed feel and Le Monêtier’s spa culture.
Altitude: With much of the terrain above 2,000 m, temperatures remain comfortable even in high summer.

White‑Water Adventures: Rafting, Kayaking and Canyoning

Many visitors are surprised to learn that Serre Chevalier is a hub for water sports. The Guisane River, which starts at Col du Lautaret and runs through the valley, offers an ideal environment for beginners and experienced rafters alike. Unlike steep‑sided gorges elsewhere, this river has a gentler profile. Its relative calm makes it perfect for first‑timers, while still providing enough speed and twists to thrill more seasoned paddlers.

“Serre Chevalier is the paradise of rafting, kayaking, hydrospeed and canyoning in the French Alps,” according to Peak Retreats.

What to Expect

Most rafting trips start with a safety briefing before groups climb into inflatable rafts with a certified guide. Beginners begin on gentler sections near La Salle‑les‑Alpes, while more experienced paddlers tackle faster currents closer to Briançon.

Rafting: Suitable for families with children over seven. Expect bouncing waves, spray and lots of laughter.
Kayaking: Ideal for those seeking a solo challenge. Sit‑on‑top kayaks are stable, and guides accompany you through the route.
Hydrospeed: Also known as riverboarding, this involves lying on a foam board and propelling yourself with fins. It’s closer to the water and more physically demanding.
Canyoning: This activity combines climbing, swimming and abseiling through narrow gorges. Because the Guisane lacks steep gorges, canyoning trips often move to neighbouring valleys.

Insider Tip

Book morning slots to enjoy calmer water and fewer crowds. Wetsuits and safety gear are provided, but bring a towel and dry clothes for after the trip. Don’t worry if you’ve never paddled before – guides cater to all abilities and adjust the route based on water levels.

Mountain Biking: Nine Ways to Ride

Serre Chevalier might be famous for skiing, but it’s just as passionate about mountain biking. The valley has purpose‑built trails for all disciplines: downhill, cross‑country and enduro. Peak Retreats notes that there are no fewer than nine downhill trails, nine cross‑country routes and nine enduro routes. That triple nine setup means variety for every rider.

Trail Types

Downhill: These trails start at the top of ski lifts and descend quickly, often with jumps, berms and wooden features. They are marked and maintained, so riders can focus on enjoying the flow.
Cross‑Country (XC): XC routes are longer circuits that mix climbs, flats and descents. They are perfect for building endurance and exploring different parts of the valley.
Enduro: Combining elements of downhill and XC, enduro routes have timed downhill segments separated by untimed climbs. They suit intermediate and advanced riders looking for varied terrain.

Skill Zones

Two designated “fun zones” help riders hone their skills. The Rolling Zone features pumptracks, dirt lines and a trials area. Pumptracks are closed circuits with undulating rollers and berms; riders generate speed without pedalling by “pumping” their bikes. The Trials Zone offers obstacles such as logs and rocks, which teach balance and bike control. The MTB Zone is another mini‑circuit replicating the situations you might encounter on the trails.

Lifts and Logistics

Five ski lifts operate in summer, whisking riders and bikes to altitude. This means you can enjoy long descents without exhausting climbs. Day passes allow unlimited lifts, and helmets are mandatory. Rental shops in Villeneuve and Chantemerle stock a wide range of bikes, including full‑suspension models for downhill and lighter bikes for XC.

Family‑Friendly Options

For younger riders or complete beginners, flat riverside paths along the Guisane offer a gentle introduction. Families can also try electric mountain bikes, which make climbs easier and extend the range you can cover together.

Organic Bathing: Swimming in Nature’s Filter

A summer holiday isn’t all about adrenaline. Sometimes you need to slow down and reconnect with nature. Serre Chevalier offers an innovative take on swimming: organic baths, or biobaths. These eco‑friendly pools use plants and gravel instead of chemicals to filter the water. At Baignade Bio de Chantemerle, aquatic plants purify the water while providing habitat for insects and birds. The result? Crystal‑clear water that feels softer on the skin compared with a chlorinated pool. Nearby, the biotope lake at La Salle‑les‑Alpes offers 2 400 m² of swimming area Both sites include grassy areas for sunbathing, wooden games, picnic tables and beach volleyball – perfect for families wanting a relaxing day out.

Why Choose a Biobath?

Natural Filtration: Plants and beneficial bacteria keep the water clean without chemicals.
Environmental Benefits: The lagoon areas create micro‑habitats for local wildlife.
Health and Well‑being: Swimming in untreated water is gentle on skin and eyes.
Scenic Setting: Surrounded by mountains and trees, the biobaths feel like wild swimming but with the safety of a designated area.

Lakes and Picnics: Casset Lake

Casset Lake, just below the D1091 route, is ideal for a family swim or a lazy picnic This clear lake sits beneath forested slopes, and its grassy banks invite you to spread a blanket and relax. Pack a picnic of local cheese, bread and fruit, and enjoy a day by the water. The lake is easily accessible from La Salle‑les‑Alpes via walking paths or a short drive.

Walking and Hiking: Trails for Every Mood

The valley’s network of footpaths ranges from gentle riverside strolls to challenging high‑alpine ascents. Here are some suggestions:

Briançon to Le Monêtier: Follow the Guisane river along flat, shaded paths between villages. Stop at local bakeries for pastries and coffee.
Lac de la Douche: This moderate hike from Le Monêtier leads to a glacial lake surrounded by peaks. The path winds through meadows of wildflowers and pine forests.
Col du Granon: Adventurous hikers can tackle the steep ascent to this 2 400 m col. The reward is a panoramic view of the Écrins National Park and the Serre Chevalier valley below.

Whenever you plan a hike, check lift opening times – some summer lifts allow you to gain altitude quickly and descend on foot.

Via Ferrata: Climb with Confidence

If you’ve ever dreamed of rock‑climbing but been deterred by technical difficulty, try a via ferrata. This protected climbing route uses iron rungs, cables and ladders fixed into the rock. In Serre Chevalier, the Grimp’in Forest via ferrata provides a gentle introduction suitable for families. You’ll clip yourself to a steel cable and climb above the Schappe park in Briançon, passing panoramic viewpoints of the old town and its ramparts. Guides provide harnesses, helmets and instructions, making the experience safe even for beginners.

Mountain Karting: Gravity‑Powered Racing

Looking for something unusual? Try mountain karting from the top of the Serre Chevalier cable car. In this activity, you sit in a three‑wheeled kart and steer down a dedicated track with banked corners and sweeping turns. There is no engine – gravity does the work – making it eco‑friendly and exhilarating. With a 300 m vertical drop and 2 000 m descent, you’ll feel a rush without needing any previous experience. Participants must be at least 1.4 m tall.

Indoor Ice Rink and Bowling

Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable even in summer. Thankfully, Briançon offers indoor activities too. A covered ice rink with Olympic dimensions (60 × 30 m) operates year‑round It’s air‑conditioned, so skating on a warm day feels wonderfully refreshing. Families can hire skates on site and practise their spins and glides. Next door, the bowling alley has four lanes and a sunny terrace overlooking the Luc Alphand piste. It’s a great way to relax after a day of outdoor adventures.

Zipline: Fly Over the Valley

For a final dose of adrenaline, head to Serre Chevalier’s giant zipline. Running between the Grande Serre (2 491 m) and the Grand Alpe (2 193 m), this cable allows you to soar over the valley at speeds of over 100 km/h. The flight covers 1 100 m and offers a 360° panorama of the Écrins National Park. You can ride solo or in tandem, making it a memorable activity for couples or friends.

Thermal Spa: The Grands Bains of Le Monêtier

No summer itinerary would be complete without mentioning the Grands Bains thermal spa in Le Monêtier‑les‑Bains. Dating back to Roman times, these hot springs have long been renowned for their healing properties. The modern complex covers more than 4 500 m² and includes outdoor and indoor pools. The outdoor pool, open year‑round, features fountain jets, river chutes, relaxation areas and bubble benches. Inside, naturally heated water feeds a Jacuzzi, bubble beds and underwater massage jets. Around the pool, frigidarium, tepidarium and caldarium rooms echo Roman bathing traditions.

Adults can pay extra to enter the Romano‑Irish zone, an adults‑only area with saunas, steam rooms, an outdoor pool and a terrace with a hot tub and waterfall. The Health & Beauty Institute within the complex offers hydrotherapy treatments using the mineral water, plus massages, scrubs and wraps. After a day of hiking or cycling, there’s no better way to soothe tired muscles.

Cultural and Culinary Highlights

Briançon’s UNESCO Fortifications

Briançon, at the eastern end of the valley, is the highest town in France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its Vauban fortifications, built in the 17th century, protected the region from invasion and remain remarkably intact. Strolling through the old town’s narrow streets, you’ll see stepped façades, pastel shutters and the striking clock tower of the church of Notre‑Dame‑et‑Saint‑Nicolas. The ramparts provide sweeping views over the valley and mountains. Combine a visit here with a cultural event in summer, such as a concert or local market.

Local Markets and Food

Summer is prime time for regional produce. Look out for farmers’ markets in the villages on different days of the week, where you can buy mountain cheeses, honey, cured meats and fresh berries. Try an Assiette du Pays – a platter of local products – at a café or mountain hut. For a sit‑down meal, restaurants like La Manouille or Le Bivouac offer traditional dishes such as beef bourguignon and duck confit. After dinner, enjoy a drink at Arc 1420 in Villeneuve or Le Chazelay in the old town; these bars combine relaxed vibes with occasional live music.

Practical Tips for Summer Visits

Accommodation: Book early, especially for August, when French families holiday en masse. Chalets, apartments and hotels are available in all villages. Briançon suits travellers who enjoy urban amenities and history; Villeneuve and Chantemerle offer easy access to lifts and shops; Le Monêtier appeals to those seeking a spa break.
Transport: A car is useful for exploring the valley at your own pace. However, local buses run between villages and the nearest train station is in Briançon. Five airports (Turin, Grenoble, Chambéry, Lyon and Geneva) serve the region, with transfer times ranging from 1h45 to 3h30, contact our partner Snow Cab.
Weather: Expect warm days and cool nights. Pack layers, waterproofs and plenty of sun cream. Afternoon thunderstorms can occur, so plan hikes and rides for the morning.
Language: While many locals speak English, learning a few French phrases will enhance your experience. Greet shopkeepers with “Bonjour” and thank people with “Merci.”

Questions to Consider

Have you ever tried rafting or kayaking in the Alps? If not, what’s holding you back – is it fear of the unknown or simply lack of information?
Do you prefer adrenaline‑fuelled adventures or moments of calm? How might you balance the two during a holiday?
Which village would suit your travel style? History buffs might stay in Briançon, families may prefer Villeneuve or Chantemerle, and spa lovers will be drawn to Le Monêtier.
Would you try organic bathing over a chlorine pool? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments – we’d love to hear your perspective.

Summary: Why Serre Chevalier Should Top Your Summer Wish List

Serre Chevalier isn’t just a winter paradise; it’s a year‑round adventure zone. With more than 300 days of sunshine, the valley invites you to embrace outdoor pursuits from spring through autumn. White‑water rafting on the Guisane provides thrills for all ages Purpose‑built mountain biking trails give riders nine ways to enjoy the terrain. Organic bathing and biotope lakes bring you closer to nature, while Casset Lake offers an idyllic picnic spot. Via ferrata routes, mountain karting zip lining and indoor activities ensure there’s never a dull moment. The Grands Bains spa, local markets and UNESCO‑listed Briançon enrich your cultural and culinary experience.

Ready to Experience Serre Chevalier for Yourself?

After exploring the wealth of summer activities, one question remains: when will you pack your bags? Serre Chevalier combines adventure, nature, culture and relaxation like few places in the Alps. The variety ensures every member of the family will find something to love, from rafting on the Guisane to soaking in mineral‑rich waters. Book your Serre Chevalier trip today and discover a side of the mountains you’ve been missing.

Plan your holiday now and let Serre Chevalier’s sunshine, larch forests and alpine hospitality reinvigorate your spirit.

Summer Adventures in Serre Chevalier: Uncover the Alps Beyond the Slopes