Discover ten unusual hikes in the Alps to do with family

Forget classic strolls, this summer in the Alps, embark on an extraordinary family adventure! From geological trails in search of fossils, walks with your feet in the water, sunrise ascents, to treasure hunts populated by fairies and mischievous donkeys, every hike becomes a playground of discovery and wonder. Get ready for ten surprising ideas that promise your tribe unforgettable memories in the heart of the mountains: guaranteed change of scenery, laughter and surprises at every turn of the trail!

Want to take your tribe on an adventure in the Alps but don’t want to walk the same paths as everyone else? Set off on a real treasure hunt among ten totally unusual hikes, where each family member will find something to marvel at. From lunar deserts to the rush towards real waterfalls, from hiking with a friendly donkey to a hunt for artistic fairies, here’s a vitamin-packed mix of ideas to reinvent family hiking this summer in the Alps!

Hiking in the Flaine Desert: the Lunar Expedition #

Forget the sand dunes and take a look at Flaine! Here, the Platé Desert transports you to another planet: imagine walking on a glacier sculpted by time, with an incredible view of Mont Blanc. Accessible by the Grandes Platières cable car or on foot for the sporty ones, this geological hike reveals fossils, ibexes, and secrets of the largest lapiaz in Europe. And if you dream of a magical night, treat yourself to a starry stop at the Platé refuge, set in a natural reserve.

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Enchanted Treasure Hunt at the Col de Romme #

Who said hiking has to be serious? Head out for “The Fairy-tastic Adventure” in the hamlet of Romme: a life-sized treasure hunt in the land of elves and sculpted fairies! Armed with your magical kit picked up at the tourist office, decipher riddles, climb, unlock secret boxes, and let yourself be guided by magic on a 4.5 km enchanting course, perfect for little adventurers aged 6 and up.

Conquering the Waterfalls of Haut-Giffre #

Head to Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval for a grand aquatic adventure: along the Sales valley trail, five waterfalls open the way, from the mists of the majestic Rouget Falls to the peaceful alpine pastures. Between bouncing rivers and the whistles of marmots, your family will enjoy a well-deserved break at the Sales valley refuge, perched at 1870m above sea level. Be prepared for strong calves… and plenty of laughter!

First Family Summit at Pralognan-la-Vanoise #

Leave the screens at home and go on a “safari” in the Vanoise National Park! Accompanied by passionate guides, young and old will scan the mountains, marmots, and royal eagles during an easy yet immersive hike. Observing the flight of the rare bearded vulture, losing oneself in the colors of the alpine pastures: it’s a gentle adventure accessible to all, where every family can experience their first summit ascent, eyes wide and binoculars in hand.

Sunset Hike and Hammock Night in Morzine #

Want an unforgettable memory? Head to Croix des Combes for a hike at sunset, followed by a night suspended… in a hammock! Guided by a guide, each step of this immersive adventure invites tales around the fire, stargazing with your nose in the air, and enjoying a local barbecue. Sleep under the pines and wake up the next morning with the soul of a trapper.

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Water Walking in Valmeinier #

When the sun beats down, nothing beats a refreshing stream! Between hiking and swimming, wade upstream in the torrent between rocks and basins, at a brisk pace. The 12°C showers awaken the spirit of adventure just as much as the numbed feet… A guaranteed challenge for teens and refreshing fun for the whole family.

Cani-hiking in the Écrins: the Trapper Style Walk #

For once, your favorite guide will have four legs! Cani-hiking is the fun and dynamic hike where each child walks along with their sled dog companion. The climbs become easy, and the breaks offer a chance to experience the mountains differently, thanks to the playful gaze of their new friend. A unique way to traverse the trails of the Écrins, blending physical exercise and canine companionship.

“Survivor” Hike at Les Arcs #

Transform your teens into real heroes of the woods! At Les Arcs, hiking takes on an expedition flavor: building shelters, making fire without matches, reading maps, and identifying edible plants… all under the guidance of ultra-trained leaders. The younger ones can become “Apprentice Mountaineers.” A captivating introduction to wild life, far from the school benches!

Donkey Trekking in Chartreuse #

To motivate your little explorers to climb, there’s nothing like a cheeky donkey as a hiking companion! In the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park, it’s an opportunity to discover the mountains at the leisurely pace of the sweetest of sherpas. Orientation games, camping under the stars, and even bushcraft workshops, all to fuel their curiosity and experience an adventure a la Pagnol… without complaining!

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Artistic Hiking on the Fairies’ Trail in Crévoux #

Let the wonder begin! On the Fairies’ Trail, an easy loop crosses torrents, forests, and waterfalls while unveiling life-sized contemporary artworks. Children will go treasure hunting for artistic treasures and can even sleep in an authentic art cabin. Don’t miss the nighttime strolls with light installations to bathe this hike in stars, unlike any other.

Looking for more original hiking ideas? Explore the trend of urban hikes or broaden your horizons with spectacular trails internationally, unforgettable routes in Maui or embark on an adventure to explore Tahiti and its breathtaking hikes. And when winter returns, don’t miss the most surprising winter activities!