The French Alps are world-famous for incredible skiing but visiting in summer can be just as much fun, or more. In the warmer months the region is a paradise for cyclists, hikers, rock climbers, and Alpine enthusiasts of all kinds. Ski resort towns like Chamonix and Argentière are nestled down low on the valley floor but the Alps rise up sharply on either side. The lie in the center of a network of ski lifts and cable cars, some of which reach altitudes of 4000m or 13000ft, and only a small number lie dormant in the summer. The others deliver mountain bikers to the top of carefully groomed trails that lie under deep snow all winter, or take climbers up to the base of adventurous mountain routes. The cable cars also mean that the best hikes in the Alps are open to anyone, even those who aren't super fit. You can get up high and enjoy staggering views without huffing and puffing. Some lifts can drop you off in a grassy Alpine meadow (complete with marmots and wildflowers), and
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