Your tailor-made stay in the French Alps this May!

Whether you're taking advantage of the off-season for a tailor-made getaway or simply looking to escape your daily routine during the holidays, the French Alps in May are nothing short of magical! The landscapes return to their lush splendor, vibrant flowers burst into color in picturesque villages, local cuisine delights the senses, and hiking and mountain biking trails reopen for exploration—just a few of the many outdoor adventures that await. In short, everything is in place for an enchanting experience! Discover all our ideas for an unforgettable springtime journey through the charm of the Alps!

This season, synonymous with renewal and rebirth, is a gentle invitation to take a break, reconnect with nature, and fill your lungs with fresh mountain air. What could be better than returning to your roots, surrounded by alpine lakes, flourishing landscapes, and untamed peaks?

In May, the Alps transform into a vibrant paradise of color. Trees bloom in delicate blossoms, fields burst into life, and towns and villages display their floral charm in parks, gardens, and even along the quaintest alleyways.

Wandering through picturesque alpine villages—like Bonneval, Arêches-Beaufort, or Yvoire—is all the more enchanting when tulips, daffodils, wisteria, peonies, and irises begin to bloom. Spring is a magical time of year that brings out the beauty of iconic landmarks such as the Palais de l’Isle in Annecy, the Château of the Dukes of Savoy in Chambéry, or even the majestic Mont Blanc towering over Chamonix.

Nature returns to its deep, vibrant green, creating a striking contrast with the still-snowy peaks. Whether you're out for a leisurely stroll or capturing the moment through your lens, these breathtaking landscapes are sure to leave you spellbound.

The off-season in the Alps is also a time of calm, far from the hustle and bustle of summer. It offers a rare chance to explore the region in peace, enjoying exclusive and intimate experiences along the way.

Spring—especially the month of May—also marks the return of outdoor adventures like hiking and mountain biking. On foot or by bike, witness nature’s grand revival: herds returning to the high pastures with the soft jingle of cowbells, the first steps of wild newborns, and animals emerging from their winter dens. The lengthening days, gentle sunlight, and birdsong provide a magical soundtrack to every moment spent in the mountains.

Keep an eye out for wild garlic, prized by chefs, and the beloved lily of the valley, a symbol of good luck in France since the 15th or 16th century, nestled among the undergrowth.

Spring is also a celebration of local gastronomy. As you wander through market stalls, let yourself be tempted by fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, and farm-made delights. Beaufort, Tome des Bauges, Tomme de Savoie, Reblochon, and Abondance—crafted from the milk of Tarentaise cows—are just a few of the iconic Alpine treats, not to mention the renowned wines of Savoie!

History enthusiasts can delve into the rich past of the Duchy of Savoy with visits to Chambéry or Annecy. Mountain biking fans will find their paradise as ski resorts like Morzine - Les Gets and Les Deux Alpes transform into incredible playgrounds for two-wheel adventures. Meanwhile, the Mont-Blanc, Bauges, Aravis, and Chartreuse ranges open their scenic trails to eager hikers.

Looking for a taste of dolce vita? Stroll through charming medieval villages like Talloires, Pérouges, or Yvoire, where the beauty of old-world charm meets modern delights—perfect for a coffee break or a leisurely lunch on a sun-drenched terrace.

By the lakeshores, a hint of summer is already in the air. Try your hand at water activities like paddleboarding or enjoy a boat cruise on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Geneva, Lake Annecy, or Lake Bourget.

Of course, Chamonix’s timeless icons—the Aiguille du Midi and the Mer de Glace—can be admired year-round. But in spring, the unique lighting and the last traces of snow give these landscapes an especially magical and dreamlike quality.

At 1786, we invite you to set off on an unforgettable adventure: explore the largest glacier in the French Alps with a professional guide during an introduction to glacier hiking. Become one with nature in this breathtaking experience that awakens all your senses. The creaking of the ice beneath your feet, the vastness stretching out before you, the pristine peaks soaring overhead—it’s nothing short of magical.

Keep that sense of elevation during your hikes and mountain bike rides. Discover the most stunning vistas of the Mont Blanc massif as you make your way to Lac Blanc, the Chéserys lakes, the Aiguillette des Posettes, and other exceptional trails, accompanied by passionate, knowledgeable guides. Keep your eyes peeled—you might just spot wildlife and their newborns exploring their alpine home. Or dive into the world of wild edible plants that grow in this rich mountain ecosystem—spring in Chamonix offers endless ways to reconnect with nature.

From paragliding and rock climbing to scenic helicopter flights over Mont Blanc, and even alpine golf or summer biathlon, countless unforgettable experiences await to enrich your stay in the Alps with lifelong memories.

After exploring some of the region’s most iconic natural sites, take time to wander the streets of Chamonix on a guided tour or food tour, and discover the town through its local flavors and fascinating stories. Whether through your tastebuds or through captivating tales, there’s always more to learn and love during your May journey to the French Alps.

Want to go further? Check out our top picks for outdoor activities in the Alps!

The return of warmer days marks one of the very best times to explore Annecy and its region! In May, the area is still blissfully free from the summer crowds—perfect for enjoying some of the region’s most iconic activities: cycling around Lake Annecy, paragliding over its turquoise waters, cruising the lake with a side of fondue, or hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding peaks, such as Semnoz or Mont Veyrier.

A signature experience with 1786: indulge in renowned local specialties during a wine and cheese tasting in the workshop of a respected cheesemonger, right in the heart of the Old Town. Food tours, gourmet market walks, and vineyard visits in Savoie will delight food lovers and curious travelers alike.

From Annecy, you can also head out to explore the charming lakeside village of Talloires, or spend a day immersed in the mountain beauty of the Bauges and Aravis ranges, where pastoral landscapes and local farms offer a true taste of Alpine authenticity.

From early May, many Alpine trails become accessible again—provided you stay at the right elevations. Above 1,500 meters, snow may still linger in large patches, making hiking conditions less stable and safe.

Above Annecy, breathtaking hikes await, offering a mix of blooming wildflowers, mountain peaks, and shimmering lake views—an experience not to be missed for nature lovers with a base in Annecy.

The Aravis range, home to the charming villages of La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand near Annecy, is another fantastic playground for hikers. Just as rewarding are the Bauges mountains above Chambéry, the Chartreuse range near Grenoble, and the Vanoise National Park, which reveals its magic through hikes starting in Val d’Isère or Méribel.

Whatever your hiking dreams during your Alpine adventure, we’ll help you find the perfect guide to lead you along the most stunning trails the French Alps have to offer.

In early May, the highest ski resorts—such as Val Thorens, Tignes, and Val d’Isère—begin to close their slopes and shift their focus to the upcoming summer season.

Temperatures gradually rise, reaching up to 25°C (77°F) by mid-May in places like Chambéry, Annecy, and Chamonix. In the mountains, you can expect sunny days with pleasant highs between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

When packing for your outdoor adventures, be sure to bring a mix of lighter clothing—t-shirts, shirts, shorts, skirts—as well as warmer layers for chilly mornings and evenings. And whether it's for sun or rain protection, don’t play favorites—bring both! The mountain weather can be full of surprises.

Want more tips? Check out our full guide on what to pack for your spring trip to the Alps.

1786 travel agency is here to craft your tailor-made trip to the French Alps in May. Charming accommodations, exclusive activities and experiences, exceptional dining, and seamless transfers to your favorite mountain getaways—we take care of everything so you can enjoy a truly unforgettable escape. Feel free to get in touch with us and explore the full range of our bespoke services in the Alps.