I’m eager to show you how beautiful the Tarentaise valley of France is in summer. Paradiski is not just a winter option; it’s a summer getaway too – a calm alternative to a crowded beach or a busy city – and it has lots to offer! Here are my top 5 things I’ll be getting involved in this summer season.
1: Mountain bike trailing (Enduro): Just as you have ski runs in winter, the mountains offer trails for summer access. The summer season is shorter than the winter – just two months, July and August – but when the chairlifts open, you can get to an altitude of 2000 metres and more if you like. Adult day lift passes for La Plagne are 15 euros and they’re 20 euros for Les Arcs. A Paradiski pass (all areas) will cost 35 euros. I’m lucky as I can swap my winter ski pass for a summer one (which I’m happy to say is free!).
Each resort in Paradiski will offer rental options for mountain bikes and electrical bikes (E-bikes). If you want peace of mind that you’re on the right track, you can arrange lesson(s) through the village rental shops; these are coordinated by local instructors who have handy tips at hand and will guide you through each bump and bend, focused on your ability.
Evolution 2 is a commendable company based in Montchavin and Peisey-Vallandry. Offering guided bike tours, aswell as the rental of E-bikes and E-scooters for an alternative way around the mountains. They’ll endeavour to make your experience one to remember.
2: Tandem paragliding – Les Arcs: Ecole de Parapente des Arcs offers flights in tandem with an instructor. My husband did this last summer, so it’s my turn. A 20-minute flight costs 110 euros; for 40 minutes, it’s 150 euros – either way, you’ll get the most spectacular bird’s-eye views over the mountains. Gift vouchers are available as a treat for loved ones or friends. And if you’re brave enough to watch your child take off, tandems are allowed from the age of 5 years old (eeek).
3: Mountain cart – Plagne Centre: This looks great fun to try out, starting at the top of the Colorado chairlift in La Plagne, with a descent of 1500 metres. Accessible to children over 10 years old or at least 1m30 in height, this activity is available every day except Saturdays. The cost is 15 euros per person.
4: La base de loisirs (Le plan d’eau): Based between Aime and Bourg St Maurice, this outdoor leisure resort caters for all, welcoming you with free parking to multiple activities for all the family. Choose from supervised swimming in the outdoor mountain lake, an adventure rope-park, inflatable water-balls, a harnessed trampoline to practise your spins, barbecue areas and a relaxed bar and café.
5: Whitewater rafting - Landry H2o sports: Situated In the Landry valley on the Isère River, this is a great set-up with comfortable and clean amenities. This base consists of a large outdoor space with a restaurant and plentiful seating, giving you the chance to unwind after your day’s adventure. Children are permitted from 8 years old and a basic package will cost 49 euros per person. There are various options to check out depending on ages and how far you want to push yourself.
A bright and spacious place to eat and unwind after rafting.