Bozel is not just a starting point for Courchevel. In summer, this authentic Savoie village and its surrounding hamlets — including Tincave, where our chalet is located — offer a wide range of outdoor activities for families of all levels.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a scenic cycle route, a peaceful afternoon at the lake or an adrenaline-filled paragliding flight, Bozel has something for everyone. Here’s our local guide to the best summer activities around Bozel and Tincave.
Summer activities in Bozel at a glance
| Activity | Level | Duration | Family-friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hiking to Mont Jovet | Moderate | 3h return | ✅ From age 8 |
| Tincave → Champagny hike | Moderate | 6h return | ✅ From age 10 |
| Col de la Loze by bike | Hard | Full day | ⚡ For fit cyclists |
| Paragliding (tandem) | Easy | 20–40 min | ✅ From age 8 |
| Lac de Bozel swimming | Very easy | Half day | ✅ All ages |
| Climbing at Courchevel | Easy–Medium | Half day | ✅ From age 6 |
| Galerie Hydraulica | Very easy | 1 hour | ✅ All ages |
| Wildlife spotting (marmots) | Easy | Half day | ✅ All ages |
Why choose Bozel for a summer holiday?
Bozel sits at the gateway to the Vanoise National Park, France’s oldest national park. From the hamlet of Tincave (1,300m), you’re perfectly positioned to explore the surrounding mountains without the crowds and prices of the resort towns.
The area offers a rare combination: authentic mountain villages, direct access to high-altitude trails, a genuine Savoie lifestyle, and proximity to Courchevel and Pralognan-la-Vanoise — all within a short drive.
Best hikes around Bozel
Mont Jovet refuge (2,350m)
The local favourite. Starting from Mirabozon car park (1,550m), the 800m ascent to the refuge takes about 3 hours on foot. The panoramic views over the Vanoise glaciers are worth every step. The refuge serves legendary homemade blueberry tarts from mid-June to mid-September.
Tincave to Champagny-le-Haut
A 6-hour return hike through stunning glacial scenery. Starting from Tincave, the trail climbs through alpine meadows before descending into the beautiful Champagny-le-Haut valley. Suitable for families with older children (10+).
Champagny-le-Haut — easy wildlife walk
Park at Laisonnay d’en Bas (1,560m) and follow the flat valley path. This is the best spot in the area to observe marmots and ibex at close range — they’re remarkably unfazed by walkers here.
Pralognan-la-Vanoise
Just 30 minutes by car, Pralognan is the gateway to the highest peaks of the Vanoise. Dozens of trails for all levels, plus the famous “Tour of the Vanoise Glaciers” for experienced hikers.
Mountain biking around Bozel
The Bozel area is increasingly popular with mountain bikers. The Col de la Loze (2,304m), which featured in the Tour de France, is one of the most demanding — and most spectacular — climbs in the Alps. Our local rider Loïc completed the full 63km loop from Tincave with 2,125m of elevation gain.
→ Read Loïc’s full Col de la Loze cycling story
For e-bikes and families, the forest track to the Mont Jovet refuge is a great alternative — good gradient, stunning scenery, no traffic.
Paragliding above Bozel
Tandem paragliding from the Tincave take-off site is one of the most memorable experiences in the area. Flights last 20 to 40 minutes and offer breathtaking views over the Bozel valley and Courchevel. Accessible from age 8, no experience needed.
Family activities around Bozel
Lac de Bozel — swimming and relaxing
A natural mountain lake at 1,100m, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot summer afternoon. Free access, picnic area, shallow sections for young children. A must for any family staying in the area.
Climbing at Courchevel
Via ferrata routes and outdoor climbing walls in Courchevel, just 15 minutes from Bozel. Suitable for children from age 6 with an instructor.
Galerie Hydraulica — rainy day activity
An interactive centre in Planay dedicated to hydroelectricity and the history of water management in the Bozel valley. Perfect for a cloudy afternoon, especially with curious children.
→ Read our Galerie Hydraulica guide
A week in Bozel: ideas for each family profile
Discovery Family
Marmot watching at Champagny, Galerie Hydraulica, Bozel market, Lac de Bozel swimming, gentle hike in the Tincave woods.
Adventure Family
Col de la Loze by bike, Mont Jovet hike, paragliding, via ferrata at Courchevel, Tincave to Champagny-le-Haut hike.
Contemplative Family
Sunrise yoga at Lac de Bozel, nature sketching in the meadows, picnic at the Mont Jovet refuge, stargazing from Tincave.
→ Find your family profile with our quiz
Where to stay for exploring Bozel in summer
Our Chalet École des Cimes in Tincave is the ideal base for a summer stay in the Bozel area. Located at 1,300m, surrounded by meadows, 15 minutes from Courchevel and Pralognan-la-Vanoise.
→ Book directly and save 17% vs Airbnb
FAQ — Summer activities in Bozel
Is Bozel good for families with young children?
Yes. The Lac de Bozel, the easy walks around Tincave and wildlife watching at Champagny are all suitable for children of all ages. The area offers plenty of low-key activities alongside more demanding ones.
How far is Bozel from Courchevel?
Bozel is 15 minutes by car from Courchevel 1850. It’s a great base if you want to avoid resort prices while still having easy access to all the activities.
What’s the best time to visit Bozel in summer?
July and August are the peak summer months, with the best conditions for hiking and the warmest temperatures. Mid-June and September are quieter and often just as beautiful.