Summer skiing in Tignes - unlike many purpose-built ski resorts, Tignes has a very buoyant summer season thanks to the summer skiing operation on the Grand Motte glacier, the watersports on the lake and the large variety of hiking and mountain biking trails plus many other outdoor pursuits for all ages.

Summer in Tignes can be as active or as relaxed as you want to make it and away from the adrenaline fueled mountain activities, there are more relaxing options such as chilling out in one of the luxury spa & wellness hotels or playing golf at Europe's highest course - there is literally something for everyone in Tignes during the summer.

Summer skiing in Tignes

Tignes is one of the few remaining resorts that offers great summer skiing on the Grand Motte glacier. The glacial slopes are accessed via a chairlift from Tignes Val Claret followed by a cable car to the summit at 3656m. From the top, there is typically 20km of piste open and depending upon the conditions, the 130 hectares can often have some great off-piste terrain as well.

The Grande Motte glacier ski area is open throughout the year except for a few weeks in the middle of September. During the summer, the lifts normally opens around 7am in the morning with the last lift for skiing around 1pm - after that, skiing in slush is not a lot of fun so a popular option is to chill out and sunbathe by one of the hotel pools or by the lake.

The ski school operates during the summer and offer group or private lessons for both children and adults. For more information please see our ski schools and guiding page.

Val Cenis & Lac du Mont Cenis

For something different, drive to the very pretty valley of Val Cenis just 60kms away. The scenic drive will take you past Val d'Isere's summer ski area and over the high mountain pass before dropping down in to the valley. Val Cenis is home to the pretty and historic villages of Lanslebourg, Lanslevillard and Termignon plus the magnificent Lac du Cenis which is a nice place to stop for a picnic.

Albertville

Home to the 1992 Winter Olympics, the modern city of Albertville also boasts the medieval city of Conflans within its boundaries where some of the buildings date as far back as the 14th century. Wander around the narrow winding streets which are lined with cafes and experience alfresco dining in one of the fabulous ancient squares. Being just over an hours drive from Tignes makes Albertville an easy day out.

Annecy

Annecy is a stunning town which resembles a smaller version of Venice with pretty waterways cutting through the historic centre. Lake Annecy is a cool place to hang out with lots of summer time bands and amusements plus you can hire a small motorboat and go for a spin around the lake. Getting to Annecy from Val Thorens takes a little over 90 minutes via Albertville.

• Swimming
• Archery
• Trampoline
• Pedal boat
• Horse riding
• Rafting
• Mini golf
• Tennis
• Via ferrata
• Sofyplay area near the lake with inflatables