After the snows melt everywhere but on the highest peaks, the Abondance valley transforms itself into another world. With many of the ski lifts still open, the high alpine meadows become a place of exhilarating beauty, offering stunning beauty, tranquility and excitement in equal measure.

This is walkers and mountain biking country par excellence, but there are endless ways to explore.. You can also take to the hills on horseback, or throw yourself off them attached to a parapent or suspended from the Fantasticable - the ultimate zip-wire descent. You can also sign up to plunge down the river gorges riding the white water on canoe or raft.

The Western Alps provide a great backdrop for a wide range of other sports and activities.   From mountain climbing to golf, swiming pools and adventure parks, it is all here for you to enjoy.

Venture further afield and take in some classic views - the magnificent Chateau de Chillon maybe, or the beautiful medieval fishing village of Yvoire on the shores of Lake Geneva. Or join the locals at the swimming pool or tennis courts in Chatel. Take a ride on the bob-luge, or the Devil Carts, or enjoy a relaxing visit to the nearby thermal springs in Val d'Illez or Les Bains de Lavey. That should keep the most hyperactive of children busy, but if they need a treat you could always take them to Le Bouveret in Switzerland where you'll find an amazing Aqua park with lazy river and huge water slides and Europes largest miniature railway centre.

To really explore the surrounding area, then a car or motorbike is essential.   Chatel's location at the Western end of the Alps provides a great base for some spectacular all day tours in Switzerland, France and Italy your only limit is your imagination and how many photos your camera can take.

As we're both bikers, we've put together a few routes you might want to try if you dare.