Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, the picturesque resort of Val d’Isère offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to connect with nature and awaken their senses. Val d’Isère is encouraging slow travel for the summer season, inviting visitors to take their time exploring the beautiful landscapes, rich history, and wellness offerings at a relaxed pace.
Guided Nature Walks and Hikes
Explore Val d’Isère’s stunning landscapes with expert guides who help to bring the natural world to life. Guided by the enthusiastic mountain walker Frank Bortolotti, travellers can partake in themed nature walks to discover pristine waterfalls and learn about the unique alpine flora and fauna. Each morning, Frank leads slow mindful walks to encourage participants to focus on their movement and open up to their inner self, in the hope of opening up to others and to the surroundings. In the late afternoon, Frank guides a walk through Val d’Isère’s forests at dusk, with no artificial lights, to bring walkers closer to nature and reconnect them with their senses.
For those looking to help out and learn more about nature and mountain life, Frank also hosts an eco hike every Sunday. This educational walk shows visitors around the village and national park, teaching them about how to preserve the landscape, whilst collecting any waste found along the way.
Cultural and Historical Tours
Guests also have the opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of Val d’Isère by exploring historical landmarks like the Baroque Saint Bernard de Menthon Church and enjoying the traditional alpine markets where local artisans demonstrate time-honoured crafts such as cheese-making, woodworking, and weaving. The Adroit Dairy Farm is also a highlight for visitors, who can learn more about the work they do for Val d’Isère and meet the family who have been running it for three generations. Children can visit the farm and meet the hens, pigs, horses and cows, while others will love the cheese dairy, where they can try some delicious local produce.
Additionally, a highlight and new addition for Val d’Isère this summer is the Naturons Nous! Event, running from 15th-19th July to offer a week full of action, education and fun – all dedicated to the local environment. Guests can help support the ancient village through exploring the local forests and mountains, cleaning up the ski area, and taking part in educational workshops and competitions.
Wellness and Relaxation
Guests have the chance to rejuvenate the body and mind, with a variety of wellness activities from outdoor yoga sessions set against the backdrop of the majestic Alps or meditation by tranquil mountain lakes. Offering the best view in Val d’Isère sitting at an altitude of 2,551 metres, Le Refuge de Solaise, prides itself on serenity and offers wellness seekers an exclusive “Reconnection” experience. This signature ritual has five phases: Revitalise, Recover, Regenerate, Revive, Reconnect, and is available to both hotel guests as well as external customers, who are looking to rebalance their energies, and awaken the senses.
Stargazing
Tucked away in the Haute Tarentaise valley, Val d’Isère has plenty of hidden spots to admire the stars, far from any light pollution. On a summer’s evening, keen star gazers can drive along the Col de l’Iseran at an altitude of 2,770m, looking out onto stunning views of the sky by Ouillette lake. In the village, shooting stars can be seen in the Manchet Valley, which is also home to Esprits Curieux Festival, which offers free stargazing sessions with professional astronomers on 8, 9 and 10 August 2024.
For more information, visit www.valdisere.com/en/
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