Why France’s Three Valleys ski resort is also a must-see in summer

You may think of the Three Valleys and picture snow-covered peaks and world-class ski runs. After all, the ski area is home to some of France’s finest Alpine resorts, including Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens. But every summer those same slopes transform into a spectacular playground, offering fresh mountain air, untarnished scenery and an incredible range of outdoor activities.

“Loads happens in summer,” ski property expert and SnowOnly founder Mark Lightfoot told us in a recent webinar. “There are swimming pools, golf courses, mountain biking and e-biking, and hiking trails. Anything that gets you in the fresh air.”

If you’re looking to buy a ski property, you’re buying a holiday home that transforms with the seasons like no other.

An active escape

The mountains are made for adventure, and in summer, the ski lifts swap skis for bikes. “During the ski season, you’ll sit in the chairlift and dangle your skis over the edge,” Lightfoot explains. “In the summer, you’ll fix your bike on the ski lift in front and, when you get to the top of the mountain, off you go cycling down the slopes.”

For thrill-seekers, the region offers dedicated mountain biking trails, pump tracks, and e-bike-friendly routes. “I was in Méribel just before the season, and there’s loads of pump tracks for cycling,” says Lightfoot. “There were kids riding around on their mountain bikes, just being outdoors.”

However, Lightfoot cautions newcomers not to underestimate the challenge: “Don’t assume because you can ski it, you can cycle it. On my first day mountain biking in a ski resort, I went down a red run on a mountain bike and went over the handlebars quite a few times. And I’m a pretty competent skier. It’s a very different technique.” That said, he admits, “It was an amazing time.”

A dual-season destination

The Three Valleys isn’t just about adrenaline—there’s a wealth of relaxation and entertainment, too. “The restaurants are open,” Lightfoot says. “It’s a fully active place in the summer.”

He also highlights a growing trend among property buyers: “Since I’ve been selling properties in the ski area, ‘dual season’ has become a very big thing for people. Even in ski season, people tend not to ski for the full time they’re staying at a resort. On rest days, a lot of people are doing spas and going to the swimming pools. These are mountain resorts. They have cinemas and things like that. There is something for everyone.”

Dual seasonality isn’t limited to France. Ski resorts globally are embracing year-round use. We recently took a deep dive on dual seasonality and how to pick the property that’s right for you.

Why you should visit in summer

If you’ve never experienced the mountains in the warmer months, you’re missing out. “If you’ve not been to a ski resort in the summer, I urge you to go,” says Lightfoot. “They’re beautiful places. Absolutely stunning. People tend to go to the beaches, but if you can, go to the mountains in the summer. It’s a magical place to be.”

Whether you’re looking for an active holiday or a peaceful escape, the Three Valleys proves that mountain resorts are just as enticing in the summer as they are in winter. With activities for all ages and interests, it’s no wonder more people are seeing the appeal of dual season living.

If you want to explore one of the best developments in the Three Valleys area, take a look at the Fleur des Alpes below: