Alps - so many wonderful wonderful places to explore

The Alps are one of the great natural wonders of the world, an ancient mountain range stretching across half of Europe that’s impressive to see even from a plane window. Get up close, though, and you’ll find some quirky sights and magnificent vistas that aren’t to be missed. One of the  many benefits of owning a second home in the Alps, is the chance to use it as a base and to explore, all it has to offer.

Check out our top five sights in the Alps below:

The Matterhorn

Ask a child to draw a mountain and the chances are it will come out looking something like the Matterhorn - a mountain which comes to an almost completely symmetrical peak and which makes quite an impact in the Alpine skyline. It’s iconic and a breathtaking sight; take the train past it to really get the most of the view.

 Grenoble

Nestled in Isere Valley near Val d’Isere is the old capital of the region, Grenoble. It’s got beautiful historic buildings including the Palais de Justice and the Musee des Beaux-Arts has an impressive selection of works by old masters to take in.

Berggasthaus Aescher

This hotel and restaurant is perched on the side of a mountain and offers unique views of the Alps. It’s become a cult favourite of bloggers and Pinterest fans, who have boosted the guesthouse in the Ebenalp area of Switzerland to global fame. It’s only accessible on foot, so if you’re planning to have a meal or stay the night, make sure you’ve got sturdy walking boots!

Col du Galiber

When the snow clears and the alpine flowers start to bloom the area known as Col du Galiber, also close to Val d’Isere, becomes a walker’s paradise. It’s verdant and lush with walking routes aplenty, as well as a chair lift and driving routes for those less keen on exertion.

Mont Blanc

Found close to the resort of Chamonix is Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the whole of the Alps. It’s worth getting up close to appreciate the majesty at any time of the year; this is one sight that’s as impressive in the summer months as it is covered in snow in the winter. You’ll also find the town of Chamonix a charming place to while away an afternoon, with picture-perfect houses and scenery.

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