Mention alpine towns and villages and thoughts immediately turn to ski vacations and other winter sports holiday options. But most of these destinations are equally rewarding during the summer months, when spectacular mountain and valley landscapes are burnished by the sun and numerous hiking and mountain bike trails are ready to be followed. And some of these places are singularly celebrated for their unique high season visitor attractions and pleasant picnic time vibe. So, are you heading for the hills this year?
Click through for ideas of where to go and what to see.