Top 7 Things to do when there's no snow to Leman Mountains Explore

Did you come to our region with the idea of hitting the ski slopes? But bad luck, Miss Weather, with the support of Sir Climate, has decided not to give you any snow during your week’s vacation? Don’t panic, there’s more to the mountains than just skiing! To make sure you don’t get stuck in your chalet, here’s our top 7 winter activities to do when there’s no snow.

Top mountain vacations Even without snow

1. A good little hike

No skiing, but still fresh air and, better than gliding, a sweet feeling of freedom. Grab your rucksack and hiking boots and explore the surrounding mountains! You’ll dominate the surroundings and enjoy extraordinary views over the Chablais, the Abondance valley and Geneva Lake.

We recommend Les Chalets d’Autigny or Col du Saix if you’re used to hiking in the mountains. Easier and shorter, but still magnificent, is the tour of Mont Bénand. If you’re in the Thollon-les-Mémises area, there’s nothing like a trip to Le Hucel (ideal for taking your children).

Before setting off, check the weather forecast or your nearest tourist information office for the avalanche risk scale. Depending on the altitude at which you climb, you may need snowshoes, so don’t forget to rent them from a sports store.

2. Visit a traditional farm or cultural site

The region’s farms invite you to discover the secrets of cheese-making (Abondance AOP, Tomme, Raclette…)! Visit the Leman Mountains Explore farms to find out why Chablais cheeses are so tasty.

Still on the theme of cheese, take your children to discover the Maison du Fromage Abondance for a unique fun and sensory visit!

And of course, there’s much more to Leman Mountains Explore than cheese! Visit the Abbey of Abondance and take a trip back to the 12th century, when the Chanoines built this unique monument! Further down the valley, in Châtel, visit La Vieille Douane (the old customs house ), where smugglers and “gabelous” played a game of cat and mouse.

3. Take a wellness break

It’s vacation time, and vacation means rest. So why not take advantage of your free time to spend a pleasant moment in a spa, jacuzzi or swimming pool?

In La Chapelle d’Abondance, for example, relax at the Terra-Beka Lodge spa. Enter a bubble of serenity and refocus on what’s essential as you let yourself be pampered by the expert hands of wellness practitioners. Or take advantage of a fully-equipped wellness area at Les Gentianettes: heated pool, water jets, invigorating showers, bubble jet, steam room, sauna and outdoor pool in summer.

On the Plateau de Gavot, you’ll also find a wide range of massages in Saint-Paul-en-Chablais with Ô bien-être and in Larringes with Manon Massages.

On the lake side, head to Publier for a unique experience in the Coin Nordic saunas. These bubble-shaped saunas offer an exceptional view of Geneva Lake and neighbouring Switzerland!

4. Lunch in a high-altitude restaurant

Want to get some height? Then head for a high-altitude restaurant, on snowshoes or with the ski lifts!

Eating out in a high-altitude restaurant is a unique experience, and one you’ll want to have at least once. But you don’t have to climb very high to enjoy delicious cuisine. Take a look at our list of good places to enjoy Savoyard meals…

Or rather, as we say here, Chablaisian!

How about a taste of Berthoud? This culinary dish made from Abondance cheese is THE local speciality (with the Spécialité Traditionnelle Garantie label!). Visit any of our restaurants serving Berthoud STG.

5. A trip to the skating rink

Put on your skates and join the natural ice rinks of Abondance or Bernex to enjoy a different kind of skating. Perfect for taking your kids!

6. Make a splash at the Cité de l'Eau

It’s not yet the season to enjoy the lake. But you can still splash around! To do so, visit the Cité de l’Eau in Publier! The aquatic area includes almost 1000 m² of pool, with a wave machine, a waterslide, jacuzzis and many other activities to discover on site!

7. Donkey trekking

For just a few winters now, visitors to Thollon-les-Mémises have been delighted by a new activity: donkey trekking! In the company of a calm and attentive donkey, set off for an unforgettable stroll through nature, heritage and exceptional views.

More traditional, you can also ride a pony or horse in Bernex, where the equestrian ranch welcomes you to share its passion.

Leman Mountains Explore is the perfect place to take time for new experiences and enjoy another mountain.