European ski resorts, historically reliant on snowfall, are increasingly pivoting to year-round tourism, offering a diverse range of summer activities to adapt to changing winter conditions. These destinations are leveraging their mountainous terrain to attract visitors with hiking, mountain biking, culinary experiences, and wellness offerings.
Alpine Adventure Hubs
Several resorts are developing comprehensive summer programs. Lech, Austria, known for its winter slopes, now offers a robust summer schedule. The Lech Card provides access to mountain lifts, buses, guided walks, kayaking, canyoning, and archery, with a family-friendly promotion offering a free card for children under 14 with a purchased adult card. Travel to Lech can include stays at Hotel Gotthard and flights from London to Innsbruck.
Saalbach, Austria, has become a prominent destination for mountain biking. The resort has established an extensive network of lift-served trails, connecting it with neighboring villages like Hinterglemm, Leogang, and Fieberbrunn. These trails cater to various skill levels, from gentle forest paths to technical downhill routes.
Megeve, France, originally developed by the Rothschild family in the 1920s, continues to draw summer crowds with its upscale offerings. The town features numerous restaurants, hotels, and a medieval village. Summer activities include gentle hikes, such as the Chemin du Calvaire pilgrimage trail, and relaxation at spa facilities like those at Les Fermes de Marie.
Alpe di Siusi, Italy, situated beneath the Dolomites, promotes a slower pace of life with restricted car access. This high-altitude meadow encourages exploration on foot or by bike, with trails winding through wildflower-filled meadows and past mountain huts. Many hotels here offer amenities like panoramic saunas, outdoor pools, and spa treatments.
Engelberg, Switzerland, has revitalized its summer appeal with over 300 miles of walking trails. A notable route is the Buirabahnli Safari, a multi-day trek that utilizes small, farmer-owned cable cars to access remote Alpine farms. This program allows hikers to stay in family-run guesthouses and enjoy traditional meals.
These transformations reflect a broader trend in the tourism industry, where resorts are adapting to climate variability by diversifying their attractions and appealing to a wider range of visitors throughout the year.