Mountain bikers exploring the Swiss Alps in autumn, in Zermatt, with the iconic Matterhorn mountain standing tall in the background amongst golden leaved trees.

An autumn holiday in the Alps offers the perfect adults only escape. As summer fades away, a symphony of red, orange, yellow and gold monopolises luscious greenery, radiating through the mountain valleys. Sounds of cow bells bounce between mountain peaks as the cattle make their way down for winter, whilst up by the glacial lakes you hear nothing but the ripples of water or breeze through the long grass. Autumn in the Alps really is a haven of true, unmatched serenity.

In addition, decreases in temperature and reduced visitor numbers create the perfect opportunity to explore what’s on offer. The picturesque mountain trails, charming alpine villages and a selection of events in the Alps in autumn are the ideal mountain sights.

This blog takes a look at the best mountain resorts and chalets for an autumn holiday in the Alps…

Chamonix in Autumn – France

People enjoying a coffee alfresco in a cafe in the centre of Chamonix in autumn. The church and immense mountain landscape can be found in the background.

At the foot of Mont Blanc, vibrant colour changing leaves add to an already stunning backdrop of the French Alps. Chamonix uncovers a delightful setting for an active holiday in the Alps in autumn; perfect for hiking, biking, rock-climbing, paragliding and exploring iconic attractions, such as the Aiguille du Midi and Mer de Glace. This resort is altogether one of the best places to visit during summer in the Alps.

Should you wish for a more laid back getaway to Chamonix, the town’s charming atmosphere will cater to your needs. Visitors should especially take advantage of the surplus summer sun, indulging on alfresco delights amongst cosy cafés and restaurants. Alternatively, be a part of a number of events happening in Chamonix in autumn. The Chirv’Athlon, the Grand Prix Golf Tournament and the authentic local fête provide a glimpse into local traditions and heritage. Not to mention endorsing the buzz and vibrant atmosphere of this year-round mountain destination.

There are many reasons to visit Chamonix in October. And our luxury chalets in Chamonix will allow you to enjoy the best blend of outdoor adventures and natural beauty…

Chalet Couttet, Chamonix

Chalet Couttet offers a great option to explore Chamonix in autumn. Here, we see the side of the property and outdoor space surrounding the chalet, including a furnished terrace and outdoor swimming pool.

Chalet Couttet is one of our luxury chalets in Chamonix, perfect for an autumn holiday in the Alps. Sleeping 10 guests, this 550m² chalet is perfect for an special family holiday in Chamonix. Boasting exceptional wellness and entertainment facilities, Couttet features as part of our collection of luxury chalets with swimming pools. There’s no better place to soak up the last of the warmer weather than by the pool on the loungers. In addition, you could dine alfresco on Couttet’s terrace to end the day. Whatever you choose, you can indulge on uninterrupted views of Mont Blanc. Inside, Chalet Couttet’s interiors adorn a contemporary modern design, with individual personality on each of its 3 floors. And of course, further wellness amenities, including a sauna, Hammam, yoga studio, gym and more…

Chalet Bonami, Chamonix

Chalet Bonami's stone and wooden facade is just a taster of what this luxury chalet has inside. There is also an outdoor hot tub seen here, covered by the chalet's large first floor balcony, and mountain views in the background.

Chalet Bonami is a beautifully renovated farmhouse found just outside the resort centre. Located in a popular, yet peaceful, neighbourhood, the chalet lies in a fantastic position to fully experience autumn in Chamonix.

Showcasing a refined wood and stone façade, Chalet Bonami’s interiors uncover a careful blend of elegance and original farmhouse features. The open-plan living area is a breath of fresh air, with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Making the most of the summer air, Bonami’s terrace provides views of Mont Blanc and Aiguille du Midi. What’s more, this luxury chalet is equipped with a hot tub, Hammam, sauna, and gym facilities. As a bonus, the cinema room has a soft, plush carpet to sink your toes into

Chalet Bonami is able to accommodate 10 adults and 4 children, with a cute bunk-playroom to impress the kids. As a result, it is the perfect option for a family friendly autumn holiday in the Alps. It’s no wonder this chalet has a spot on our Top Reasons to Visit Chamonix blog!

Autumn in Zermatt – Switzerland

Zermatt's Moosijisee Lake in autumn is a sight to behold with a beautiful body of turquoise water surrounded by golden hills and trees, and the Matterhorn standing tall in the background.

As green turns to gold and tourist numbers thin out, Zermatt in autumn enjoys a more serene and relaxed ambience. This alpine resort in Switzerland is a haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat. The iconic Matterhorn, lightly dusted with a sprinkling of snow, stands majestically against the autumnal backdrop. Its beauty is seen from various vantage points around the resort and is a focal point on a number of Zermatt’s hiking and mountain biking trails. These also encompass auburn forests, meadows adorned with colourful wildflowers, and winding valley floors; all affording breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding peaks.

The Gorner Gorge is also a must when visiting the Swiss Alps in October. Narrow gorges and waterfalls create this natural wonder, accessed through a series of wooden walkways and bridges. Carved by the elements, it makes for a must-visit attraction on a family holiday in the Alps in autumn. Should you visit Zermatt in October, Gorner Gorge is especially impressive, exhibiting turquoise blue waters in certain lights.

The Matterhorn Eagle Cup, Shepherd’s Festival, Folklore music weeks and culinary tours offer a more expansive taste of regional activities in Zermatt also available during autumn.

Chalet Gemini, Zermatt

Chalet Gemini is a beautiful freestanding chalet tucked against a beautiful hillside with spectacular views. In addition to the chalet and its hillside, we also see blue skies and the iconic Matterhorn mountain poking through in the distance.

Autumn in Zermatt is guaranteed to be a winner when staying in Chalet Gemini. Perfect for visiting Zermatt in September and October, Gemini sits against the hillside, featuring spectacular views and easy access. Take advantage of this staggering position, bathing in the last of the Alps’ warmer season on south-east facing terraces. There’s no better place to than relaxing in the chalet hot tub to capture the surrounding mountain landscapes, which encompass Zermatt’s hiking areas, and a bird’s-eye view of the town. Inside, Chalet Gemini’s interiors are typically Swiss alpine, sleeping groups of 10 across 3 living floors.

Chalet Tuftra Findelbach, Zermatt

Chalet Tuftra Findelbach's open living room is decorated in light colour tones, which perfectly complements high wooden ceilings and light brown furniture. All eyes are drawn to the large picture window at the back of this room, however, which frames a clear view of the iconic Matterhorn mountain.

If you desire a luxury chalet with a Matterhorn view, then Chalet Tuftra Findelbach is here to answer. Open-plan, contemporary living interiors have been designed to maximise space. The high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows capture the picture perfect iconic mountain peak. But it’s not only the views that attract clients to Chalet Tuftra Findelbach. Equipped with exceptional wellness facilities, a relaxing break to the Alps in autumn is promised in this chalet. Accommodating for 14-17 guests, Chalet Tuftra Findelbach is perfect for larger groups wanting to experience Zermatt in autumn.

Autumn in St Moritz – Switzerland

This picture shows a boat in the distance on St Moritz lake, framed perfectly by close, blurred autumn leaves.

Known for its elegance, natural beauty, and serene ambiance, autumn in St Moritz displays a symphony of warm autumn colours, embraced by the majestic mountains and beautiful lakes. Considering this, it’s no wonder why it features in our Top 5 Destinations for a Lakes and Mountain holiday blog!

During autumn, hiking in St Moritz is a popular activity to perfectly capture the resort’s golden beauty. With a vast network of trails, from leisurely lake walks to more challenging mountain hikes, there’s something available for everyone. For water sports fans, sailing, kite surfing or paddleboarding is accessible on the picturesque Lake St. Moritz, reflecting the surrounding mountains in its crystal-clear waters. Renowned for its natural springs, St Moritz also offers the optimum post-activity relaxation, through a variety of wellness spas.

St Moritz’s galleries and museums should be on your radar for a cultural alpine holiday. Additionally, there’s a selection of Michelin-star restaurants in St Moritz which are sure to whet appetites after an active day!

The Loft Apartment, St Moritz

The Loft Apartment in St Moritz features stunning views of Lake St Moritz which can be seen from its terrace (as pictured here) - beautiful blue waters can be found after a patch of green grass in front of the apartment, with mountains protruding in the distance.

The Loft Apartment sits in a very central, yet private, setting in the most exclusive area of St Moritz. Well-positioned for a lakes and mountains holiday in the Alps, this luxury St Moritz apartment offers markedly stunning views. Featuring spectacular scenery of Lake St. Moritz and the golden mountain glow of the Swiss Alps in autumn, there’s really no better spot to retire than on the outdoor terrace.

Inside, there’s ample room for all 6-8 guests to socialise. Sleek white interiors combine with an abundance of natural light, and designer furnishings complete the luxury feel. An outdoor hot tub and children’s playroom ensures there’s something for all ages, ideal for family holidays when spending autumn in the Alps.

Apartment Snow Garden, St Moritz

Apartment Snow Garden's main living room adopts a rich, dark design with maroon red walls and chocolate furniture. This space also leads out onto a terrace, through large floor to ceiling picture windows, for better views of Lake St Moritz in autumn.

Despite its wintery name, Apartment Snow Garden is a beautiful property to experience on an autumn holiday in the alps. Situated in the same location as The Loft Apartment, this luxury chalet-apartment features views of comparable beauty. Plenty of seating and a picturesque window wall enable views to be captured from inside the property. The walls have been finished with rich red tones and complementary dark woods. Suitable for 6-8 guests, this apartment in St Moritz is sure to rival chalets and luxury hotels in the area.

As a result of its name, it’s to no surprise that Apartment Snow Garden can also be booked with our sister brand, Ski In Luxury, for your ski holiday in St Moritz!

Lech in Autumn – Austria

Lech in Autumn is beautiful! A football pitch is found at the foot of the hill. A number of freestanding chalets and apartment buildings ascend above. Higher mountain peaks are seen towards the back of this image, protruding over the landscape and cutting through the blue skies.

Lech is a charming Austrian alpine village. In autumn, Lech embraces a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere through tranquil surroundings, coated in an array of autumn hues. Beautiful bodies of water and panoramic viewpoints await to be explored on foot, including mirrored lakes and waterfalls. Or why not venture out on two wheels, across Lech’s mountain bike trails, which criss-cross through the resort!

Fishing is another popular activity in Lech during the autumn season. Pristine rivers and lakes provide ample opportunities for anglers to cast lines and try their luck catching trout. Back on dry land, Lech’s high-altitude golf course offers unique challenges and spectacular mountain scenery. As Austria’s highest golf course, spanning an impressive 19-hectares and beautifully incorporating its surroundings, it’s a must when considering your next golf holiday in the Alps in autumn.

For a more leisurely experience, scenic drives, guided tours, culinary experiences and strolls around the village are also available. Where better to finish your day, than to spend cosy evenings unwinding and recharging, than in a Lech luxury chalet…

Le Chalet, Lech

Le Chalet's serene swimming pool hugs the right side of this image, next to the exposed stone walls. Loungers and tables towards the left offer an ideal spot to rest, once you've finished a leisurely swim.

One of our top 100 luxury chalets, Le Chalet guarantees a luxury autumn holiday in the Alps like no other. Everything about this ultimate luxury chalet in Lech is sure to make a lasting impression. From a lengthy selection of wellness facilities and lavish luxury interiors, to beautiful, elevated mountain views and 7 exquisite modern bedrooms, every corner is as impressive as the next.

Located in Oberlech, a car-free area overlooking Lech, Le Chalet is also in direct access of the resort’s hiking trails. Spanning 1,000m², in such a desirable location, there really is no better way to explore Lech in autumn…

Chalech S, Lech

Chalech S features a beautiful open-plan living space, with a blue sofa corner separated from the dining table on the other side of this room, via an open fireplace in the centre.

… Or is there? Chalech S is another one of our luxury chalets in Lech, posing a wonderful option for an Alps autumn holiday. Covering 4 floors and a total 400m² of alpine living, this chalet welcomes 12 guests. As a result, this chalet is perfect for getaways with friends and families! Homely, open-plan interiors complete with sumptuous furnishings, plus a calming colour palette, invite you back to relax after a day of autumn activities in the Alps. The chalet’s 6 elegant bedrooms then await for a well-deserved night’s sleep.

And for those looking for more relaxing autumn holiday in the alps, guests at Chalech S will be thrilled to sample the tranquil spa area on the ground floor. In addition to the private sauna and Hammam, Chalech S also has shared access to a number of wellness facilities. These include a swimming pool, gym and spa, used between four other properties within the Chalech development.

It’s clear to see, autumn in the Alps promises to bring as much fun as any other season! Should you feel inspired to book your own stay in the Alps in autumn, don’t hesitate to contact us. Send us an email or call +44 (0)1202 203659; our team of friendly Alps Specialists will be more than happy to assist you!