The Alps Tours

There are few destinations as awe-inspiring as the French Alps. Standing tall on the borders between France, Italy and Switzerland, these snow-capped peaks are a picturesque backdrop to getaways all year round. The star, of course, is Mont Blanc, towering over the region at 15,781ft tall (and counting – the highest point in Europe has grown over 111ft in 15 years). Only the most hardened athletes can scale its summit, but with surroundings as beautiful as this, you won’t need to. Nature’s wonder is everywhere, from the Vanoise National Park and the shimmering Lake Annecy, to the Route des Grandes Alpes and the Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix. The Alps holidays allow you to fill your lungs with fresh air, skiing, surfing or hiking off the beaten track, before relaxing in the natural mineral waters of Uriage and Aix-les-Bains. Replace the lost calories with some local raclette or tourtons – a speciality pastry stuffed with potato, fresh Alpine cheese and onion – and a glass of Savoy red, before sleeping under the stars. Read more