A guide to exploring the secret side of the French Alps
Paul Webster shares his favourite French Alps hideaways in the latest Wild Guide
Paul Webster says the French Alps are simply among the most beautiful places on Earth
Ask people to imagine the French Alps, and many will think of ski resorts set high among majestic peaks, with clear blue skies and perfect powder snow. The Chamonix valley has developed a big reputation for summer adventure tourism, and the beauty of Lake Annecy is justly renowned. Yet beyond these obvious destinations, there is a much wilder, less-known and more magical land just waiting to be discovered. With a little effort and imagination, it is easy to get beyond the obvious and discover one’s own natural paradise. The fact is that the French Alps are simply among the most beautiful places on Earth. Here are lands crammed with towering mountains, passes to cross, mountain lakes to swim in and secret valleys to explore. There are forests and gleaming