Skiing & Sunshine on a Summer French Alps Holiday

Apr 22
09:55

2024

Lisa Jeeves

Lisa Jeeves

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Experience the thrill of skiing on a glacier and indulge in a plethora of Alpine activities in Tignes during your summer vacation. This unique destination offers a seamless blend of winter sports and summer adventures, making it an ideal getaway for enthusiasts of all seasons.

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Summer Skiing in Tignes

While most are packing away their ski equipment as the warmer months roll in,Skiing & Sunshine on a Summer French Alps Holiday Articles Tignes invites you to dust off your skis and hit the slopes even in summer. The resort's highlight is the La Grande Motte glacier, which provides a snowy haven for skiing enthusiasts from June to August. The glacier boasts 20 kilometers of diverse runs, including red, blue, and black pistes, catering to all skill levels.

Early Morning Adventures

To make the most of the conditions, skiing activities start early with lifts opening at 7:15 AM and closing at 1:00 PM. This schedule ensures that skiers and snowboarders enjoy the best snow quality, which tends to soften as the day progresses due to sunlight exposure.

Features for All

The glacier is not just for traditional skiing; it also houses a dynamic snowpark. This park features kickers, rails, pipes, and skicross tracks, perfect for those looking to practice their tricks or simply add some variety to their skiing experience.

Accessing La Grande Motte Glacier

Getting to the glacier is part of the adventure. Visitors staying in Tignes can take a lift or bus to Tignes Val Claret, where a funicular train ascends to the base of the Grande Motte cable car. This cable car reaches up to 3,454 meters, offering access to the highest skiable area on the glacier. Additionally, there are 12 other ski lifts that serve various pistes at different altitudes, ensuring that every visitor finds a slope that suits their abilities.

After the Slopes: Enjoying Tignes Beyond Skiing

Once the morning ski session ends, Tignes transforms into a hub of summer activities. By obtaining a Sportignes card, visitors gain access to numerous activities, many of which are free. Here’s a glimpse of what you can enjoy:

  • Tennis and Golf: Perfect for those looking to enjoy more traditional sports.
  • Acroland: This unique water park features slides that launch you into Tignes Lake, offering a refreshing and exhilarating experience.
  • Mini Bike Park: Includes an air bag for practicing jumps and tricks safely.

Adjacent to the Vanoise National Park, Tignes also offers extensive hiking trails with breathtaking views of iconic peaks like Mont Pourri and Mont Blanc. These trails provide a perfect opportunity to explore the Alpine wilderness after hanging up your skis.

Traveling to Tignes

Tignes is accessible from several nearby airports including Geneva, Lyon, Grenoble, and Chambéry, with an approximate drive time of two to three hours. Detailed driving directions from each airport can ensure a smooth journey to this Alpine paradise.

Interesting Stats and Facts

  • Glacier Skiing: Tignes is one of the few places in Europe where summer skiing on a glacier is possible. The La Grande Motte glacier is maintained with meticulous care to provide a consistent skiing experience throughout the summer.
  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Tignes is committed to sustainable tourism, implementing measures to reduce environmental impact even while hosting summer skiing activities.

For more information on Tignes and its offerings, visit the official Tignes tourism website.

Whether you're a seasoned skier looking to extend your season or a summer adventurer eager for new experiences, Tignes offers a unique blend of activities that make it a standout destination for a summer holiday in the French Alps.