Our Top Alpine Resorts for the Summer 2026

It goes without saying that winter in the Alps has a special kind of magic, but for many homeowners it's the summer months that have become the real highlight of the year. Once the snow melts, the mountains take on a completely different character. Walking trails replace ski pistes, mountain lifts continue to run, restaurants spill out onto sunny terraces and a packed calendar of sporting and cultural events keeps resorts busy well into autumn.

This shift is also influencing the property market. Buyers are increasingly looking for homes they can enjoy beyond the ski season, while a continous flow of visitors helps support rental demand across more of the year. From traditional Swiss villages to internationally renowned mountain towns, these are some of our favourite Alpine destinations to discover this summer.

Grimentz, Switzerland

Hidden away in the Val d'Anniviers, Grimentz feels a world away from some of the Alps' larger, busier resorts. The village is renowned for its beautifully preserved timber chalets, flower-filled balconies and centuries of Alpine history, making it one of Switzerland's most characterful mountain destinations. Visitors return year after year, drawn as much by its peaceful atmosphere as its spectacular surroundings.

Summer is all about making the most of the landscape, whether that's hiking to the Moiry Glacier, mountain biking through the valley or cooling off with a swim in the striking turquoise waters of the Moiry Reservoir. On 1 August, Swiss National Day brings the village to life with traditional celebrations, local markets and live music, offering visitors a chance to experience the region's heritage first-hand.

While Grimentz is known for its traditional architecture, buyers will also find contemporary developments designed for modern Alpine living. Residences such as L'Impériale Apartments and La Couronne combine the charm of the village with sought-after summer amenities, including outdoor swimming pools, allowing owners to enjoy the mountains long after the ski season has ended.

Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Few resorts blend luxury, sport and lifestyle as well as Crans-Montana does. Set on a sunny plateau overlooking the Rhône Valley, it's long been a favourite with international buyers thanks to its sophisticated atmosphere, designer boutiques, exceptional restaurants and outstanding sporting facilities.

Summer is one of the resort's busiest seasons. Visitors can spend the morning on one of Europe's most famous golf courses before enjoying lakeside walks, mountain hikes or a leisurely afternoon in the village centre. The highlight of the summer is undoubtedly the Omega European Masters, held each August, when many of the world's leading golfers descend on Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club, bringing a phenomenal buzz to the resort.

This combination of lifestyle, international recognition and year-round activity has helped establish Crans-Montana as one of Switzerland's strongest luxury property markets, with demand remaining consistently high among buyers seeking both a second home and a long-term investment.

Villars, Switzerland

Just 90 minutes from Geneva Airport, Villars has earned a loyal following among families looking for an easily accessible Alpine home. The resort offers a quieter pace than some of its neighbours, yet still provides everything needed for an active summer, from scenic hiking trails and mountain biking to golf, tennis and panoramic train journeys through the surrounding countryside.

Throughout July and August, the village hosts a programme of open-air concerts, artisan markets and family-friendly events that bring extra life to the centre while maintaining the relaxed atmosphere that makes Villars so appealing.
Spacious chalets and apartments, excellent transport links and genuine year-round use continue to make Villars one of Switzerland's most attractive destinations for those looking to invest in an Alpine lifestyle.

Chamonix, France

Few places are as closely associated with the mountains as Chamonix. Sitting at the foot of Mont Blanc, the resort has attracted climbers, adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts for generations, yet it's just as vibrant away from the winter season. Cafés fill with hikers and cyclists, cable cars carry visitors high into the mountains and the valley takes on an energetic atmosphere throughout the summer.

The resort reaches its peak in late August with the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), one of the world's most prestigious endurance races. Thousands of runners and spectators travel from across the globe, reinforcing Chamonix's reputation as one of Europe's premier outdoor destinations.

That international profile continues to underpin one of the French Alps' most resilient property markets. Whether buyers are looking for a central apartment or a luxury chalet, demand remains strong thanks to Chamonix's appeal in every season.

Megeve, France

Just a short drive from Chamonix, Megeve offers a completely different experience. Elegant rather than adventurous, the resort is known for its cobbled streets, luxury boutiques, exceptional dining and beautifully preserved architecture. It has been one of the Alps' most prestigious addresses for decades and continues to attract buyers looking for a refined mountain lifestyle.

Summer is filled with golf, horse riding, mountain walks and long lunches overlooking the surrounding peaks. One of the season's highlights is the Jumping International de Megeve, which welcomes some of the world's leading showjumpers each July and has become a fixture in the resort's summer calendar.

Combined with its timeless charm and strong international reputation, Megeve remains one of the French Alps' most desirable destinations for buyers seeking an elegant second home that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Alpe d'Huez, France

Alpe d'Huez has earned global recognition thanks to its legendary Tour de France climb, but there's much more to the resort than cycling. During the summer, its high altitude and sunny climate attract walkers, mountain bikers and families looking to make the most of the extensive network of trails and outdoor activities. The resort's biggest events include the Megavalanche, one of the world's most famous downhill mountain bike races, and La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes, which sees thousands of amateur cyclists tackle the iconic 21 hairpin bends. With continued investment in modern developments and year-round facilities, Alpe d'Huez is becoming an increasingly attractive choice for buyers looking beyond the ski season.

Morzine, France

Summer in Morzine is every bit as lively as winter. Part of the vast Portes du Soleil, the resort has become one of Europe's best-known mountain biking destinations, while its traditional village centre, independent shops and excellent restaurants ensure there's plenty happening away from the trails. The summer months are equally busy, with Pass'Portes du Soleil, Harley Days Morzine-Avoriaz and the Spartan Trifecta Weekend all drawing visitors from across Europe. The steady flow of summer tourism, combined with its enduring popularity during the ski season, has helped make Morzine one of the French Alps' most reliable markets for second-home buyers.

Kaprun, Austria

Kaprun's setting is one of its biggest strengths. With the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier on one side and the waters of nearby Lake Zell on the other, owners can enjoy everything from high-altitude hiking and panoramic viewpoints to paddleboarding, sailing and lakeside cycling. The region also hosts the Grossglockner Ultra-Trail, one of Austria's premier trail running events, attracting competitors from around the world each summer. For buyers, Kaprun offers a rare combination of glacier, lake and mountain living, alongside professionally managed developments that are well suited to those looking to combine personal use with rental income.

Saalbach, Austria

Saalbach has quietly established itself as one of Austria's leading summer resorts, particularly for mountain biking. Its extensive lift system provides access to hundreds of kilometres of trails, while walkers can explore an equally impressive network of routes across the surrounding mountains. The GlemmRide Bike Festival remains one of the highlights of the season, bringing together international riders, live music and entertainment. The Saalbach Trail and Skyrace also continues to grow in popularity. As more visitors discover the resort beyond winter, demand for well-located property has continued to strengthen.

Lake Pressegger See, Austria

For those looking for a different kind of Alpine escape, Lake Pressegger See offers a refreshing alternative. One of Austria's warmest Alpine lakes, it's a favourite for swimming, paddleboarding, sailing and lakeside walks, while the Italian border is less than 20 minutes away and the Nassfeld ski area is within easy reach during winter. Throughout the summer, the lake hosts open-air concerts, food festivals and community events that make the most of its beautiful setting. Combining lakeside living with access to one of Austria's largest ski areas, it's an increasingly appealing option for buyers seeking a property they can enjoy in every season.

Every resort on this list offers something different, but all have become destinations to enjoy well beyond the winter months. For buyers, that's creating more opportunities to get the most out of an Alpine home, whether for personal use, rental income or a combination of the two. To see our properties available, click here or get in touch for our personal advice.