What to do in Maurienne this summer ? The complete guide to making the most of your vacation
- RG Conciergerie
- Jun 29
- 4 min read
The Complete Guide to Enjoying Your Summer Holiday
When people think of the Alps in summer, they often picture the famous lakes or the best-known resorts. Yet the Maurienne and Haute Maurienne valleys hide a still-preserved gem: breathtaking landscapes, authentic villages, legendary mountain passes, spectacular alpine lakes, and countless activities for every type of traveler.
Still wondering what to do in Maurienne in summer? We've put together this complete 2026 guide featuring the valley's must-see attractions, our favorite activities, and practical tips to help you make the most of your stay.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a passionate sports lover, a family looking for adventure, or simply seeking a relaxing mountain getaway, here are the experiences you shouldn't miss this summer.
Take in the Views: The Valley's Most Beautiful Panoramas
Maurienne is one of the largest Alpine valleys in France and offers exceptional viewpoints that can be reached on foot, by bike, or by car.
A visit to the Col de l'Iseran, the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps at 2,764 metres, is a must. From the summit, you'll enjoy spectacular views over the glaciers and peaks of Haute Maurienne.
Another iconic destination is the Col du Galibier, a legendary climb made famous by the Tour de France. Even without a bike, the drive offers breathtaking scenery.
For a more peaceful experience, head to Lake Mont-Cenis, a true Alpine jewel with turquoise waters surrounded by peaks rising above 3,000 metres.
Explore the Most Beautiful Hiking Trails
Summer is the perfect season to explore the valley's hiking trails. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy the Vanoise National Park, France's very first national park. Marmots, ibex and alpine flowers make every hike an unforgettable experience.
Some of the best hikes in Maurienne and Haute Maurienne include:
The Lake Mont-Cenis Loop
Plan du Lac Refuge in Termignon
The Cerces Lakes from Valloire
The panoramic trails of Les Sybelles around La Toussuire
The Dent du Chat hike near Aix-les-Bains (around one hour from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne)
From easy family walks to challenging mountain hikes, there's something for every level.
Experience the Alps Differently: Adventure Guaranteed
Maurienne is also an outstanding destination for outdoor adventure.
The famous Via Ferrata du Diable in Avrieux is considered one of the most impressive in France, with suspended bridges crossing the Arc River gorges. The site also features an adventure park.
If you'd like to gain even more altitude, several schools offer tandem paragliding flights from Val Cenis, Valloire, and La Toussuire.
Mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy the numerous enduro trails and bike parks in Valloire, Valmeinier, and Les Sybelles.
Cyclists from around the world also come to tackle the legendary Tour de France mountain passes: Galibier, Télégraphe, Croix de Fer, Madeleine, and Iseran.
Spend a Day by the Water
Who says mountains can't include swimming?
Lake Mont-Cenis is the perfect place for a walk, a picnic, or simply relaxing in an exceptional natural setting.
Less than an hour away, Lake Bourget offers a completely different atmosphere, with beaches, water sports, boat cruises, and lakeside restaurants—ideal for a day trip.
Whether you prefer paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, or simply relaxing by the water, there's something for everyone.
Travel Back in Time Through Charming Villages
One of Maurienne's greatest strengths is its authentic heritage.
No visit to the valley is complete without discovering Bonneval-sur-Arc, officially listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). Its stone houses, traditional roofs, and preserved streets seem frozen in time.
Continue your journey by exploring:
Bessans and its rich mountain heritage
Val Cenis and its traditional hamlets
Valloire, at the foot of the Galibier Pass
Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, the historic capital of the valley
Le Bourget-du-Lac, combining medieval heritage with a relaxed lakeside atmosphere
Every village tells part of Savoy's fascinating history.
A Perfect Destination for Families
Maurienne is an ideal destination for families.
Children love spotting marmots in the alpine meadows, exploring the educational trails offered by the resorts, and enjoying the many summer activities organised throughout the villages.
Adventure parks, cycling routes, mountain playgrounds, aquatic centres, and family-friendly events fill the entire summer season.
Enjoy Local Markets and Summer Events
Summer is also the perfect time to experience local life.
The markets of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, Valloire, Val Cenis, and La Toussuire bring together local producers and artisans.
Mountain cheeses, cured meats, honey, génépi liqueur, homemade jams, and traditional Savoyard specialties fill the market stalls.
And because holidays are meant for relaxation, RG Conciergerie also offers a meal delivery service directly to your accommodation.
After a day of hiking, cycling, or exploring the lakes, simply enjoy your evening without having to cook or drive. It's a popular service for families, couples, and groups of friends alike.
Throughout the summer, village festivals, concerts, sporting events, and local celebrations also bring the valley to life.
Where to Stay to Explore Maurienne This Summer?
Holidays should be all about simplicity and relaxation. That's why RG Conciergerie supports you before, during, and after your stay in Maurienne. Carefully selected accommodation, personalised advice, local recommendations, on-site assistance, and meal delivery are just some of the services we provide to help you enjoy an authentic and stress-free holiday.
Our accommodation is ideally located whether you choose to stay in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, the gateway to the valley with easy access to the resorts, legendary mountain passes, and major tourist attractions, or directly in mountain resorts such as Val Cenis, Valfréjus, or La Toussuire, allowing you to make the most of the Alpine activities.
Whatever your way of discovering Maurienne, RG Conciergerie is here to help you enjoy every moment of your stay.
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