Day-by-Day Buzz
Day 1: Alpine Welcome Party
Pull up to Arra Montagne, where the Alps are basically your backyard. Check into your family room—think bunk beds, wood accents, and a balcony for epic views. At 5 p.m., it’s welcome time: juice and cookies for kids, coffee or wine for parents, plus some silly games to break the ice. Dinner’s a big family buffet with alpine faves—sausages, cheesy polenta, and apple crumble. Kids’ll be hyped for what’s next.
Day 2: Mountain Biking Blast
After a breakfast spread (croissants, cereal, fruit), gear up for a 2-hour mountain biking session on beginner-friendly trails near Les Houches. Guides teach kids the basics, and parents can ride or cheer. It’s safe but thrilling, with helmets for all. Lunch is on your own—grab a sandwich in Chamonix. Afternoon’s free—hit the hotel’s game room or explore town. Dinner’s at the hotel: think roast chicken, mashed spuds, and ice cream sundaes. Kids’ll sleep hard.
Day 3: Rock Climbing Fun
Post-breakfast, head out for a 2.5-hour rock climbing session at Gaillands, a kid-friendly crag 10 minutes away. Pro guides show the ropes (literally), and it’s easy enough for first-timers 8+. Parents can climb or snap pics. Back by lunch (try a creperie in town), then chill at the hotel—maybe nap or play cards. Dinner’s another group feast: pasta bake, fresh salad, and chocolate mousse. Kids’ll be bragging about their climbs.
Day 4: Lake Picnic & Free Time
Fuel up with breakfast, then pack for a 1.5-hour hike to Lac des Chéserys, a gorgeous alpine lake. It’s an easy 3 km, and we’ll spread out a picnic—baguettes, cheeses, fruit, and cookies—that kids’ll devour. Swim or skip stones in the lake. Afternoon’s yours—stroll Chamonix’s shops or relax. Dinner’s on you tonight; we’ll suggest spots like La Calèche for kid-friendly fondue. Pro tip: their hot chocolate’s a hit.
Day 5: More Biking & Big Goodbye
One last breakfast, then another 2-hour mountain biking session on a new trail near Les Praz. Kids’ll love the mini jumps, and guides keep it safe. Afternoon’s free—lounge by the hotel’s fire or swap stories with other families. The final dinner’s a blowout: an alpine barbecue with burgers, grilled veggies, and s’mores, plus some music to get kids dancing. Everyone’s leaving as buddies.
Day 6: Catch Ya Later
Grab breakfast—extra pancakes for the road—and check out by 11 a.m. Hang in the hotel lounge if your train’s later. Kids’ll be begging for “just one more day!”
Why It’s a Family Win
This retreat’s gold for families with active kids 8+. Biking and climbing are beginner-friendly but feel like a big deal—perfect for building confidence. The lake picnic’s a chill highlight, with views that’ll wow everyone. Arra Montagne’s super cozy—14 rooms, a play area, and staff who know every kid’s favorite snack by day two. Dinners are hearty, with options for fussy eaters, and the small group vibe means no chaos. Parents get to relax while kids have a blast. It’s adventure without the stress.
