MOUNTAIN SUMMERS

Why Méribel Isn't Just for Skiing – Discovering the Alps in Summer

When you think of Méribel-Mottaret, chances are your mind immediately jumps to snow-covered mountains, ski lifts and winter holidays.

For years, that's exactly what we associated it with too.

But this summer, we swapped skis for hiking boots, bikes and swimming shorts and spent a long weekend exploring the French Alps in a completely different season.

The verdict?

We'll definitely be back.

More Than Just a Winter Destination

The Alps come alive during the summer months.

The ski runs transform into hiking and cycling trails, alpine flowers replace snow-covered slopes and crystal-clear mountain lakes become the perfect place to cool off after a day outdoors.

What surprised us most wasn't just the scenery—it was how many different ways there are to be active.

Whether you're looking for adventure, gentle movement or simply time away from the demands of everyday life, there's something for everyone.

Hiking That Makes You Stop and Appreciate Nature

One of the highlights of the weekend was a four-hour hike through the Vanoise National Park to the Refuge du Saut.

Following mountain streams, climbing through alpine meadows and surrounded by towering peaks, it reminded us why walking is such a powerful wellbeing activity.

It's not just about burning calories.

Being immersed in nature encourages us to slow down, breathe deeply and notice the world around us. The combination of movement, fresh mountain air and incredible scenery is a fantastic way to reduce stress and clear a busy mind.

Cycling the Col du Loze

No visit would have been complete without taking on the famous Col du Loze.



Yes... we chose e-bikes!

The climb is still challenging, but it allows you to enjoy the experience rather than simply surviving it. The panoramic views across Méribel and Courchevel make every pedal stroke worthwhile.

It's another reminder that exercise doesn't always have to be about pushing yourself to the limit.

Sometimes it's about exploring new places, enjoying the journey and spending time outdoors.

Wild Swimming with a View

One of the biggest surprises of the trip was discovering just how many places there are to swim.

From the supervised lake at La Praz to the mountain lake below the Biollay chairlift and the stunning waters of Lake Annecy, each offered something different.

Cold water immersion has become increasingly popular because of its physical and mental health benefits, but even without seeking out an icy plunge, there's something incredibly calming about swimming in natural surroundings.

It leaves you feeling refreshed, energised and connected to nature.

Golf, Good Food and Slowing Down

Not every activity had to raise the heart rate.

Golf at Méribel Altiport offered spectacular views, challenging fairways and another excuse to spend the day outdoors.

Evenings were equally enjoyable—great local food, a relaxed atmosphere and watching live sport in the village bars after active days in the mountains.

It's a balance we often encourage through My Life Tonic.

Movement is important, but so is taking time to recover, socialise and simply enjoy the moment.

Why Active Holidays Feel Different

One thing became very clear during the weekend.

We returned home feeling genuinely refreshed.

Not because we'd spent days lying by a pool, but because we'd spent our time moving our bodies, exploring somewhere new and switching off from everyday life.

Active holidays don't need to be exhausting.

They can simply provide opportunities to walk, cycle, swim, play golf or try something you've never done before.

It's about enjoying movement rather than treating it as exercise.

Already Planning the Next Trip

Despite packing plenty into four days, there was still so much we didn't have time to do.

Boules, fly fishing, downhill mountain biking, more road cycling, volleyball, padel and plenty more hiking are already on next year's itinerary.

The summer season in Méribel runs from July until the end of August and, if you're looking to escape crowded beaches and soaring temperatures, it's an incredible alternative.

The mountains offer space, cooler air, breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities to be active.

At My Life Tonic, we believe wellbeing isn't just about what happens during a yoga class or workout.

It's about creating opportunities to move more, explore more and experience new adventures that leave you feeling healthier—both physically and mentally.

This trip certainly did that for us.



Now we're already counting down to next summer.