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- Things to do in Châtel in the summer: 8 top family activities
Things to do in Châtel in the summer: 8 top family activities
This summer, discover the charm of the mountains and the Alps: majestic, lush landscapes, fresh air, and wide-open spaces. Whether with family or friends, enjoy the benefits of a stay in the Alps to recharge your batteries and get your fill of adventure! Located in the heart of the Abondance Valley, Châtel is a charming village with well-preserved architecture—an ideal destination for a memorable vacation. From hiking and mountain biking to water sports and tree-top adventure courses, the French-Swiss Portes du Soleil region offers a mountain of activities, all accessible at a low cost with the Multi Pass Portes du Soleil activity card.
Nestled between lake and mountains, Châtel offers a picture-perfect setting for your next summer vacation. At an altitude of 1,200 meters, just 6 kilometers from the Swiss border with Morgins, Châtel is the northernmost resort in the French Alps. Well-preserved architecture, views of the Dents du Midi and Mont Blanc... Everything comes together for an unforgettable stay!
Whether with friends or family, on foot or by bike, take the time to explore the region from Châtel, the starting point for many excursions! Admire the landscapes of the Franco-Swiss Chablais region: Evian, Thonon, Lake Geneva and its Riviera, the Valais, the Abondance Valley, the Val d'Illiez... A land of art and history, the Evian region and the Abondance Valley are brimming with sports and cultural activities, waiting to be discovered in a museum, while exploring the mountain pastures, or through the local cuisine.
Nestled between lake and mountains, Châtel offers a picture-perfect setting for your next summer vacation. At an altitude of 1,200 meters, just 6 kilometers from the Swiss border with Morgins, Châtel is the northernmost resort in the French Alps. Well-preserved architecture, views of the Dents du Midi and Mont Blanc... Everything comes together for an unforgettable stay!
Whether with friends or family, on foot or by bike, take the time to explore the region from Châtel, the starting point for many excursions! Admire the landscapes of the Franco-Swiss Chablais region: Evian, Thonon, Lake Geneva and its Riviera, the Valais, the Abondance Valley, the Val d'Illiez... A land of art and history, the Evian region and the Abondance Valley are brimming with sports and cultural activities, waiting to be discovered in a museum, while exploring the mountain pastures, or through the local cuisine.
#1: Thrills for the whole family
The Fantasticable Châtel: a dizzying experience
Comfortably secured in your harness, soar over the mountain pastures of Plaine-Dranse at nearly 100 kilometers per hour and up to 240 meters high! Be warned: between the speed and the beauty of the mountains, you might shed a little tear… Depending on weight and weather conditions (wind), you can fly solo or in pairs*. A great experience to share as a couple, with friends, or with your little adventurers.
* Requirements: minimum weight of 35 kg for the lighter passenger, a total weight of 150 kg, and a maximum weight difference of 40 kg between the two passengers.
Tip: choose accommodations participating in the Multi Pass - Portes du Soleil program and enjoy a 10% discount on your Fantasticable flight by presenting your valid activity card.
* Requirements: minimum weight of 35 kg for the lighter passenger, a total weight of 150 kg, and a maximum weight difference of 40 kg between the two passengers.
Tip: choose accommodations participating in the Multi Pass - Portes du Soleil program and enjoy a 10% discount on your Fantasticable flight by presenting your valid activity card.
The Bobluge in Pré-la-Joux: Kids’ Favorite Activity
Châtel offers a unique summer tobogganing experience. Hop in! Race down the 650-meter track at an average speed of 7 meters per second. Designed for families, the rail sledding is open to children 80 centimeters and taller, who must be accompanied by an adult if under 1.25 meters. The Bobluge is a thrilling activity, but the speed is fully controlled by the user thanks to the braking system. For the little ones, the best part is riding the mechanical lift back up the slope for the next run!
When booking your accommodation with Châtel Réservation, choose a rental property that is a partner of the Multi Pass Portes du Soleil program and enjoy a 10% discount by presenting your valid activity card.
When booking your accommodation with Châtel Réservation, choose a rental property that is a partner of the Multi Pass Portes du Soleil program and enjoy a 10% discount by presenting your valid activity card.
#2: Mountain Biking and Cycling: Châtel offers a massive playground for cycling enthusiasts
In Châtel, we love cycling—and the people who do it!
Cycling comes in all forms in Châtel; since 2018, the resort has been recognized for its commitment to promoting cycling.
Over 600 km of trails are dedicated to mountain biking and e-mountain biking throughout the Portes du Soleil, connecting France and Switzerland.
Easily explore the different villages with the Portes du Soleil Mountain Bike Pass: a single pass for 12 resorts!
From Pré la Joux and the Pierre-Longe chairlift, access the Châtel Bike Park. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, test your skills on its 20 mountain bike trails for all skill levels, and enjoy a new view at every turn, under the supervision of the Bike Patrols (shapers and first responders responsible for the Bike Park’s safety). By reservation, mountain bike instructors are also available to guide you, in private lessons or group sessions for even more fun!
Châtel is also a popular destination for road bike enthusiasts! This summer, take part in local races and ride the legendary routes of the Tour de France. Whether on a long ride or a time trial, challenge yourself on the surrounding mountain passes, enjoying magnificent views between lakes and mountains.
Finally, for gravel enthusiasts—a hybrid of road and mountain biking that’s particularly well-suited to mountainous terrain—there are several routes to choose from, including the Mont de Grange loop. Châtel will host the Gravel World Championships from August 24 to September 5, 2027—a date to mark on your calendars!
As for accommodations, during the summer season, our rentals are flexible and can be tailored to your needs. Whether you’re planning a week of cycling or just a weekend getaway, check out all our available options online:
Over 600 km of trails are dedicated to mountain biking and e-mountain biking throughout the Portes du Soleil, connecting France and Switzerland.
Easily explore the different villages with the Portes du Soleil Mountain Bike Pass: a single pass for 12 resorts!
From Pré la Joux and the Pierre-Longe chairlift, access the Châtel Bike Park. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, test your skills on its 20 mountain bike trails for all skill levels, and enjoy a new view at every turn, under the supervision of the Bike Patrols (shapers and first responders responsible for the Bike Park’s safety). By reservation, mountain bike instructors are also available to guide you, in private lessons or group sessions for even more fun!
Châtel is also a popular destination for road bike enthusiasts! This summer, take part in local races and ride the legendary routes of the Tour de France. Whether on a long ride or a time trial, challenge yourself on the surrounding mountain passes, enjoying magnificent views between lakes and mountains.
Finally, for gravel enthusiasts—a hybrid of road and mountain biking that’s particularly well-suited to mountainous terrain—there are several routes to choose from, including the Mont de Grange loop. Châtel will host the Gravel World Championships from August 24 to September 5, 2027—a date to mark on your calendars!
As for accommodations, during the summer season, our rentals are flexible and can be tailored to your needs. Whether you’re planning a week of cycling or just a weekend getaway, check out all our available options online:
- Accommodations with bike storage
- Large chalets
- Apartments equipped with a bike wash area
Great deal: Book your accommodation with Châtel Réservation and enjoy a 15% discount on Portes du Soleil mountain bike passes!
#3: Hikes and Walks: The Mountains at a Family-Friendly Pace
Easy, family-friendly hikes
- Dranse River Trail
- Walk around Lake Vonnes
The footbridges and playgrounds were completely renovated during the summer of 2024.
Please note: swimming is not permitted!
- Themed trails exploring mountain flora and fauna
- The Bird Trail, starting at the Col de Bassachaux (access by car or chairlift, free with the Multi Pass)
- The Eterlou Trail, starting from the Pré La Joux parking lot (access by car or free shuttle)
- The Morclan Trail, starting from Le Tenne (Route du Petit Châtel, access by car or free shuttle).
Note: This final route takes you along the various slopes of the Barbossine/Petit Châtel massif, below Mount Morclan. It involves a bit more elevation gain and offers a stunning view of the village of Châtel, the Dents du Midi, and the Abondance Valley!
Intermediate Hikes
Here are a few routes that are accessible to everyone—and free of charge! Find more ideas on the Châtel Tourisme website 😉
Please be mindful of the fragility of our environment! Châtel and the neighboring towns are part of the Chablais Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Human activities are regulated here, particularly camping. As you cross the alpine pastures, you’ll encounter herds: dogs must be kept on a leash. We recommend checking for the presence of guard dogs, as well as access conditions, directly with the tourist offices!
Please be mindful of the fragility of our environment! Châtel and the neighboring towns are part of the Chablais Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Human activities are regulated here, particularly camping. As you cross the alpine pastures, you’ll encounter herds: dogs must be kept on a leash. We recommend checking for the presence of guard dogs, as well as access conditions, directly with the tourist offices!
- Lac d'Arvouin
Easily accessible on foot from the heights of La Chapelle d’Abondance, this 3-km hike through the alpine pastures takes you to one of the most beautiful lakes in the Abondance Valley. An ideal outing for families!
- Mouet Loop
This is an easy hike starting from Le Tenne, on the heights of Petit-Châtel. Several route options are available, passing through Barbossine Desseux or the Col du Saix. Once you reach Le Mouet, you can continue your journey toward La Chapelle d’Abondance, the Col de Recon, or Le Morclan, passing through the Onnaz-Tour de Don plateau. Let the sound of the cows’ bells fill you with joy!
- Mont de Grange Nature Reserve
Mont de Grange is the heart of the Abondance valley. You’ll find various trails to reach the summit or hike around it, starting from Châtel, La Chapelle d’Abondance, or Abondance. This is a protected natural area where wildlife conservation is a top priority. In addition to magnificent landscapes and herds of Abondance cows grazing in the summer pastures, you may spot chamois, ibex, mouflon, and marmots along the trails.
#4: Adventure and Nature: Tree-top Adventure and More
Châtel Accrobranche 1600
Embark on an adventure in the heart of nature in Super-Châtel, at the foot of Morclan. From the treetops, enjoy an exceptional view of the Dents du Midi range (Switzerland), the village of Châtel, and the Abondance Valley. Châtel Accrobranche 1600 is open to children ages 2 and up, but is suitable for all ages! Discover 7 acrobatic courses in the trees:- P'tit Kid Parc: 1 course for children ages 2 to 4, accompanied by an adult
- Kid Parc: 2 courses for children ages 5 to 8 to tackle on their own
- Super Parc: 4 courses accessible to ages 9 to 99, with varying levels of difficulty
- Colored courses by level
Tip: Show your valid Multi Pass activity card to get a 10% discount on this activity!
Spend your holiday exploring nature
To fully enjoy a mountain vacation, take the time to observe the nature around you. To keep it fun, here are a few activities available in Châtel and the Abondance Valley:- Lake fishing (regulated)
- Orienteering courses, marked nature trails
- Wildlife viewing (marmots, chamois) during excursions organized by the Châtel Guide Office
#5: Relaxation and Refreshment: Swimming Pool and Wellness
Forme d'O, Châtel’s Aquatic Center
Since 2014, the resort town of Châtel has been home to an aquatic center, open year-round, for the enjoyment of children of all ages! The pool is the must-do summer activity, rain or shine, after a hike or simply to sunbathe… Forme d’O features several areas, tailored to your preferences and the swimmers’ ages:
- Aquatic area: heated outdoor pool, indoor pool with play zone, lap lanes. By reservation: baby swim classes, aquagym, aquabiking, …
- Wellness area, ages 16 and up: heated pool with bubble benches, steam rooms, sauna
- Spa Océane: body and facial treatments by reservation
- Fitness area: cardio training room, fitness classes, …
Great deal: in summer, upon presentation of a valid Portes du Soleil Multi Pass card, access to the aquatic area is FREE! (1 entry per day, indoor and outdoor pools).
Tip: when you book your stay with Châtel Réservation, enjoy a 15% discount on select Forme d’O weekly passes and treatments at Spa Océane!
Tip: when you book your stay with Châtel Réservation, enjoy a 15% discount on select Forme d’O weekly passes and treatments at Spa Océane!
#6: The Portes du Soleil Multi Pass: Your ticket to a budget-friendly summer!
The must-have for summer in Châtel and the Portes du Soleil is the Portes du Soleil Multi Pass! Enjoy included access to over 70 activities across the 12 resorts of the Portes du Soleil, as well as numerous discounts on partner activities.
Activities included in the Multi Pass:
- Pedestrian chairlifts: to reach the peaks and mountain restaurants more easily! In Châtel: 🚠 Super-Châtel chairlift, Morclan chairlift, Pierre-Longue chairlift, Rochassons chairlift
- Access to swimming pools and lakes equipped for swimming! In Châtel, enjoy one daily visit to the Forme d’O water park 💦
- Fun activities for the whole family: Mini-golf courses, tourist trains, trampolines, one hour of daily access to the Châtel Indoor Kids Park playground, …
- Outdoor tennis
- Inter-resort shuttles
- Le Chamois Cinema in Châtel
In short, the Multi Pass lets you fully enjoy your family vacation, whether you’re looking to relax or stay active!
The different Portes du Soleil Multi Pass options:
- If you’re staying with an accommodation provider participating in the Portes du Soleil Multi Pass program, purchase your activity pass for just €4.00 per person per day of your stay*, for a total cost of €24.00 per person for 6 days
- Some accommodation providers offer the Multi Pass to their guests; in this case, you won’t have to pay anything on-site—the activity pass will be provided free of charge upon your arrival.
- If you’re visiting Châtel for a single day, you can purchase the Multi Pass Portes du Soleil directly at the ski lift ticket office:
- Daily rate: €15.00 per person*
- Season pass: €120.00 per adult or €90.00 for ages 5 to 25*
- The Multi Pass is free for children under 5!
Tip: Book your accommodation now with Châtel Réservation by selecting apartments and chalets participating in the program, or those where the Portes du Soleil Multi Pass is included! Small logos indicate which options are available!
*Summer 2026 rates, hands-free device not included (€3.00)
*Summer 2026 rates, hands-free device not included (€3.00)
#7: Savoyard Heritage and Culture
A mountain vacation isn’t just about sports! Make the most of your stay in Châtel to add a cultural touch to your summer; discover Alpine traditions and the heritage of Haute-Savoie. It’s a chance to instill a love of travel in your children, spark their curiosity, and ensure they take home unique memories of their stay in Châtel.
The Abondance Valley stands out from the rest of the Alpine region because it has developed around pastoral traditions, as reflected in its slogan: “One cow, one valley, one cheese.” The village of Châtel has also been shaped by its cross-border location with Switzerland.
Our suggestions:
The Abondance Valley stands out from the rest of the Alpine region because it has developed around pastoral traditions, as reflected in its slogan: “One cow, one valley, one cheese.” The village of Châtel has also been shaped by its cross-border location with Switzerland.
Our suggestions:
- On the theme of smuggling: the Vieille Douane Museum, Escape Game, Treasure Hunt
- Focusing on Abondance cheese: visits to farms, mountain pastures, and aging cellars; farm-fresh tasting; La Chapelle d’Abondance Dairy; Abondance Cheese House
- History of the valley: Abondance Abbey
- Local markets
- Summer festivals and events, notably the famous Belle Dimanche on August 23, 2026, celebrating the Plaine-Dranse alpine pastures!
Please note: Upon presentation of your valid Portes du Soleil Multi Pass card, you are eligible for discounts at most museums and tourist sites in the Portes du Soleil region (in France and Switzerland). All the details are in the Multi Pass activity guide!
#8: Your Accommodation in Châtel: Comfort and Great Prices
For over 20 years, Châtel Réservation has been the official accommodation provider for the Châtel resort!
Browse our wide selection of vacation rentals online and take advantage of our team’s expertise, based right in Châtel! Let’s plan your next stay in Châtel, in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, together, tailored to your family’s needs:
- Studio, family apartment, or luxury apartment
- Luxury chalets
- Large-capacity accommodations
- Balconies with mountain views or private gardens
- Pet-friendly rentals
- Chalets and apartments with a pool, jacuzzi, or sauna
- Weekly, long-term, or weekend stays
Discover our selection of apartments and chalets for your summer in Châtel. Book now and get the best rate for your vacation:
- Discount for booking confirmed by April 30, 2026
- Accommodations with Multi Pass included or at a reduced rate!
- Discount on stays of 2, 3, or 4 weeks
- Last-minute deals on available accommodations
- 15% discount on activities: Mountain biking passes, Forme d’O Aquatic Center, Océane Spa
Ready to enjoy your perfect summer in the mountains? The team at Châtel Réservation is here to help you plan your dream vacation.
Contact us today or explore our accommodation offers with the Multi Pass Portes du Soleil and mountain bike passes!
Contact us today or explore our accommodation offers with the Multi Pass Portes du Soleil and mountain bike passes!