Summer mountain pass: the best deals in the Alps
The VIP Pass in Verbier, the Explorer Pass in Méribel, the Multi Pass in the Portes du Soleil, My Tignes Open… Alpine resorts are now pulling out all the stops to attract summer visitors. Behind these evocative names lies a single promise: to get more out of the mountains whilst spending less. But are these passes really good value for money, or are they merely a clever marketing ploy designed to mask the rising cost of holidays in the mountains? It’s a question worth asking.
For whilst winter remains largely dominated by the ski pass model, summer has become a veritable testing ground for innovation in tourism. Faced with a more fickle clientele, one that is more price-sensitive and increasingly seeking experiences, destinations have gradually developed passes offering access to dozens of activities, sometimes free of charge, sometimes at a reduced rate. Having analysed the main offers currently available in the French and Swiss Alps, one conclusion stands out: some passes offer real added value. Others are more of a marketing ploy.
The ‘over 50 activities included’ trap
First and foremost, we should be wary of the figures. When a resort advertises ‘40’, ‘50’ or even ‘70 activities included’, this does not necessarily mean that visitors will save hundreds of euros. In some cases, the list includes activities of little commercial value: guided tours, children’s entertainment, introductory workshops or discounts of a few euros on services that are already inexpensive. The real question lies elsewhere: does the pass provide free or discounted access to activities that visitors would actually have paid for? That is where the real difference lies.
1. The Verbier VIP Pass: probably the gold standard today
If one were to name the most compelling pass in the Alps, the Verbier VIP Pass would undoubtedly top the list. Its appeal is simple: it is offered to visitors staying in the resort. Unlike many other schemes that require an additional purchase, this one is included in the stay and provides access to a range of genuinely useful benefits: free or heavily discounted ski lifts; public transport; sports activities; museums; guided tours; local entertainment. The system is based on a clever concept: the more the visitor explores the area, the more they benefit from the pass. For an active family staying for several days, the savings can quickly add up. Verdict: probably the best value for money in the Alps.
2. The Portes du Soleil Multi Pass: the champion of value for money
Les Portes du Soleil were among the pioneers of the concept. The Multi Pass now covers twelve French and Swiss resorts, including Morzine, Avoriaz, Les Gets, Châtel and Champéry. For just a few euros a day, it provides access to: swimming pools; ski lifts; tennis; mini-golf; beach facilities; transport; museums; and family activities. The strength of the system lies in its geographical scope. Visitors are no longer confined to a single resort but can explore a vast cross-border area. For a family with children, it’s hard to beat. Verdict: the most comprehensive option for families.
3. My Tignes Open: a paradise for sports enthusiasts
Tignes has fully grasped that its main competitor these days is the beach. The resort has therefore devised a pass designed primarily with active holidaymakers in mind. Golf, a bike park, ski lifts, a water sports centre, archery, trampolining and other sporting activities: here, visitors are encouraged to keep active from morning till night. Unlike some destinations where the included activities are relatively limited, Tignes focuses on high-value-added services. For mountain bikers or sports enthusiasts on an active holiday, the savings can be considerable. Verdict: the best pass for sports enthusiasts.
4. The Méribel Explorer Pass: the art of introducing visitors to a destination
Méribel takes a slightly different approach. The Explorer Pass is not designed merely as a way to save money, but as a genuine tool for discovery. The aim is to encourage visitors to try activities they might not otherwise have considered: guided hikes, golf, tennis, nature workshops, cultural events or family activities. The concept is less spectacular than that of Verbier or Tignes but fits perfectly with the destination’s positioning. Verdict: excellent for a first visit to the 3 Vallées.
5. Hero Pass in Les Arcs: the dark horse
Although it has received less media coverage than some of its competitors, the Hero Pass is certainly worth considering. It provides access to ski lifts, various sports facilities and a range of outdoor activities. Its value depends largely on the itinerary of your trip, but it is an attractive option for active holidaymakers. Verdict: low-key but effective.
6. Saas-Fee: the Swiss pioneer
Long before French resorts adopted the concept, Saas-Fee had already recognised the value of offering more than just ski lifts. Today, the destination continues to offer particularly generous packages that include transport and access to a wide range of facilities. The approach remains true to the Swiss philosophy: simplicity, efficiency and clarity. Verdict: a sure bet.
7. Zermatt: prestige comes at a price
Zermatt offers a range of passes combining ski lifts, mountain trains and tourist attractions. The service is of a high standard but remains considerably more expensive than elsewhere in the Alps. Visitors enjoy exceptional facilities… but generally pay a premium for them. Verdict: attractive, but less generous than Verbier or the Portes du Soleil.
The real winner? Families
Ultimately, perhaps the question isn’t which pass is the best. The real question is rather: what sort of holidaymaker are you? For a hiker who sets off every morning to explore the trails with their rucksack and walking poles, these passes will often be of limited value. For a family or a couple wishing to alternate between hiking, ski lifts, water sports, culture, wellness and exploring the local area, however, they can completely transform the holiday experience. And that is probably their main merit.
Because beyond the savings made, these passes above all encourage visitors to explore the summer mountains further. Mountains which, ultimately, have much more to offer than we yet realise.
Our rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ VIP Pass Verbier
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Multi Pass Portes du Soleil
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ My Tignes Open
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Pass Explorateur Méribel
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hero Pass Les Arcs
⭐⭐⭐½ Saas-Fee
⭐⭐⭐ Zermatt
