With last year’s record-breaking temperatures inspiring travellers to seek out cooler, less crowded destinations this summer, Pierre & Vacances has revealed its alternative European hotspots for a more refreshing holiday experience.

Tapping into the growing trend for destinations that combine sunshine, outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes with more manageable climes, the holiday specialist is recommending mountain getaways as an ideal way to escape the masses, as well as the predicted intense temperatures[1].

Recharge your batteries in Alpe d’Huez

The newly-renovated Residence Les Bergers is the ideal setting to soak up the area’s natural tranquillity, whether enjoying stunning views across France’s Western Alps from the outdoor heated pool or while exploring the area’s peaceful peaks and mountain pastures.

As popular with hiking and rafting enthusiasts as wildlife lovers, the light and airy apartments provide the perfect base for a high-altitude holiday. For a rock-climbing experience without the risk, the nearby Via Ferrata routes offer exhilarating family fun as you venture across footbridges and up ladders on a vertical hike with the best views in town. Then back to base for a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant and a chance to unwind at the residence bar or relaxing on your balcony as the sun sets on another unforgettable day. A seven-night stay at Residence Les Bergers, arriving 6 July 2024, is priced from £652 total based on up to six people sharing a one bedroom/cabin apartment self-catered. Flights and transfers extra.

Pierre & Vacances (0870 0267 145, www.pierreetvacances.co.uk)   

Celebrate Arc 1950’s 20th anniversary in cool summer style

With eight five-star residences in one exceptionally well-serviced and fully-pedestrianised holiday village, Arc 1950 Le Village Premium residence has established itself as a pioneering family-friendly paradise over the last two decades. And, with a fun-packed programme of festivities to celebrate turning 20, the groundbreaking resort is set to be in its entertaining element this summer.

Every Wednesday, the village will offer fun for all the family, with a wide range of free entertainment covering everything from treasure hunts to a fancy-dress ball, graffiti sessions to make-up workshops, and birds of prey displays to cowboy and pirate-themed shows. Then, on Thursdays, the village turns into an open-air dancefloor, with free live concerts encouraging holidaymakers to let loose and enjoy the music against a memorable mountain backdrop.

From 8 July, guests aged eight upwards staying at least five nights in the village will also be able to access free activities, with a complimentary Outdoor Pass giving free access to a range of wellness, target sport and ‘out and about’ activities, including mountain bike initiation for 8-12 year olds, Nordic walking, yoga and fitness classes, plus archery classes. And, for the ultimate chance to return home fully rested, the 1000m² thalasso spa overlooking Mont Blanc is guaranteed to sooth body and soul.

A seven-night stay at Arc 1950 Le Village Premium residence, arriving 8 July 2024, is priced from £821 total based on up to six people sharing a two bedroom apartment self-catered. Flights and transfers extra.

Pierre & Vacances (0870 0267 145, www.pierreetvacances.co.uk)   

Follow in the Tour de France’s footsteps in Méribel

For many mountain lovers, last summer’s return of the Tour de France after 18 years put Méribel and its incredible summer scenery back on the map. As the peloton passed through the resort and climbed the legendary Col de la Loze, viewers lapped up the stunning Alpine backdrop that make the 3 Valleys a wonderful seasonal escape.

With the lifts giving easy access to the adrenaline-rich mountain playground from 29 June until 30 August, it’s never been easier to get up high to enjoy the peaks whatever your fitness level. Whether you prefer to explore the villages and mountain terrain on foot, take advantage of the 25 downhill trails and 19 enduro routes by mountain bike or simply find a scenic picnic spot to breathe in the crisp alpine air and exceptional panoramic views, the well-linked lifts ensure you can focus your energies where it matters most to you.

As an added reward, guests at the five-star Premium Résidence L'Hévana benefit from a range of wellness facilities back at base. Brimming with Savoyard charm, the jewel in the luxury aparthotel’s crown is the Deep Nature® Spa, which includes an indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, hammam, sauna and fitness room, with several of the 92 contemporary apartments also boasting their own private sauna.

A seven-night stay at Premium Résidence L'Hévana, arriving 6 July 2024, is priced from £1,072 total based on up to six people sharing a two bedroom apartment self-catered. Flights and transfers extra.

Pierre & Vacances (0870 0267 145, www.pierreetvacances.co.uk)   

Enjoy a holiday on the move in Avoriaz

Whatever your summer style, this pedestrian resort of Avoriaz prides itself on offering over 70 fun-filled activities for families seeking respite from the heat. Best of all, the Multi-Pass Portes du Soleil gives discounted access to all of them, across the region’s 12 resorts, from just €3/£2.50pp per day for guests staying at participating accommodation providers, and free for children under 5. The great value pass is also valid on the tourist train and inter-resort buses. This means guests at the charming Premium Residence L’Amara - at the forest edge, with striking views across the valley - are perfectly-placed to learn a new sporting skill this summer.

Whilst nature lovers will relish the +20 hiking trails offering through the area’s lush mountain landscapes, and outdoor enthusiasts might err towards the chance to pedal through the alpine paths and Europe’s largest bike park, the pass offers ample opportunity to try your hand at something different before cooling off in L’Amara’s indoor pool or outdoor hot tub. Whether you’re an amateur angler or have always had your eye on archery or clay pigeon shooting, whether you’d prefer to aim high climbing or take to the skies paragliding, or whether your idea of the perfect holiday is to indulge yourself with a host of spa treatments and gentle yoga classes, you’re sure to find an activity this summer with your name on it. 

A seven-night stay at Premium Residence L’Amara arriving 6 July 2024, is priced from £940.11 total based on up to six people sharing a two bedroom apartment self-catered. Flights and transfers extra.

Pierre & Vacances (0870 0267 145, www.pierreetvacances.co.uk)   

To find out more or to book your summer holiday, contact Pierre & Vacances on 0870 0267 145 or www.pierreetvacances.co.uk

[1] https://phys.org/news/2024-02-meltwater-north-atlantic-european-summer.html