Going on a mountain vacation during the off-season: Is it a good or bad idea?

August 12, 2024

Are you familiar with summer and/or winter vacations in the mountains, when the season is in full swing? Why not try traveling during the off-season! Let’s take a look at the benefits of fall and the questions that this often-overlooked time of year raises. Is going to the mountains in September or October a good or bad idea?

It's a good idea if you enjoy hiking in a peaceful setting

In the summer, the most popular hiking trails are crowded all day long. It’s difficult—if not impossible—to find a quiet spot on a rock to watch for marmots, or for trail runners to try to beat their personal bests on single-track trails.

In the fall, hikers are fewer and farther between on the trails of Tignes, La Plagne, and La Rosière. You might run into a few local hikers, happy to reclaim “their” favorite spots. You might even go an hour or two without seeing a soul… Either way, you’ll have plenty of time to listen to the twin whistles of marmots and the wind rustling through the tall grasses, gilded by long months of sunshine.

Do you dream of an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors? Hiking is undoubtedly one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to explore breathtaking landscapes, reconnect with nature, and recharge. With Evolution 2, set off on an adventure with complete peace of mind, thanks to our professional mountain guides (AMM), who will lead you on your hike.

This is a great idea if you love the vibrant colors of fall

The golden-orange larch trees (not to be confused with evergreen firs) never fail to dazzle us in October! Neither do the blueberry bushes with their turning red leaves, nor the now-golden pastures that take us on a mental journey to the vast Eurasian steppes.

Of course, as winter and its blanket of snow come to an end, we dream of the vibrant colors of summer mountain flowers. But once the start of the school year has passed, the days grow shorter, and the chill rears its rosy head once more, it’s warm colors we want to fill our eyes with… before snuggling up by the first comforting fires after a hike!

That's a good idea if you'd rather take your time

In September and October, there’s no need to rush from one activity to the next, as you might be used to doing during your summer vacation. Turn off your alarm clock, put away your watch, and go with your instincts and whatever you feel like doing in the moment!

Feeling a little hungry? That means it’s time to get up. Is the view through the large floor-to-ceiling windows calling to you? Slip on your hiking boots and head out for a walk along the trails of the Vanoise National Park or the Haute Tarentaise Nature Reserves. Feeling a little hungry again? Settle down with a view of the lakes and glaciers all around you, pull out your Opinel knife, and treat yourself to a super-simple picnic of sausage, Beaufort d’alpage cheese, and fresh, crusty bread. Starting to get chilly? Head back inside to warm up with a nice cup of tea—savored under a blanket on your balcony as the sun sets over the mountains. Our vacation advisors will be happy to help you choose the apartment with the best view when you book your stay ;)

It's a good idea if you're looking for simplicity

Nothing could be easier than booking a fall vacation in the mountains! It’s a much quieter time of year, which means you can make a last-minute decision when the urge for fresh air and the great outdoors becomes too strong. And all at a very reasonable price.

Another benefit of traveling off-season: there’s no risk of getting stuck in traffic for hours. Place your Drive order in Bourg-Saint-Maurice with peace of mind: you’ll arrive well in time to pick it up before collecting your keys from our reception staff.

Off-season mountain vacations aren't for you if…

- You don't like to cook: that's right—"off-season" means "few, if any, restaurants are open." But our large, fully equipped kitchens will inspire even those who can't even manage to cook a simple pasta dish…

- You’re very active: During the off-season, most summer activity sites close their doors to better prepare for the winter season. You’ll therefore have fewer options than in July and August. Rest assured, though: the region’s hiking trails and legendary mountain passes (Iseran, Petit Saint Bernard, Cormet de Roselend) remain open until the first snowfall. That’s enough to keep you active from morning till night!

- You love crowds: The more outgoing among you might regret not being able to strike up conversations with complete strangers as often as you do during peak season. Your chance encounters along the trail will be all the more special!

Long, peaceful walks, vibrant colors, time to slow down—and all easily bookable at the last minute… A mountain vacation in September or October might just become your annual fall tradition!

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