Autumn is the perfect time for families to explore the Alps, when the peaks are dusted with the very first snows and the larch forests are tinged with gold. Our properties across the French and Swiss Alps are welcoming havens for families, with an abundance of space to spread out, plus family-friendly additions such as children’s sleepover suites and dedicated quarters for your own nanny or staff. 

Our experienced team are at your disposal throughout your stay to create unforgettable encounters – from exhilarating hot air balloon rides, scenic mountain bike trails and moonlit hikes, to mountain-side gourmet picnics. 

Autumn in the Alps is a visual display of nature’s beauty. Gold and copper hues tint the treetops, framing blue skies, while invitingly crisp air calls for explorations in the mountains. Fewer crowds at this time of year means moments of reflection come easily in picturesque landscapes tinged by autumn colours where families can relish the freedom of wide open spaces. 

Hot air balloon rides in Crans-Montana & Gstaad

As experts in the art of bespoke experiences, we know the importance of time together as a family. Our recommendation for a heart-soaring escapade is a hot air balloon ride over Switzerland's serene scenery, while staying at either Ultima Crans-Montana or Ultima Hotel Gstaad.

Gain a whole new perspective over the landscapes and watch your children’s eyes widen as you lift off into the sky, rising to altitudes of up to 4,000 metres. Sunrise is a magical time to see the pinnacles, lakes and valleys illuminated by the first rays of the day, as you sip hot chocolate and nibble freshly-baked pastries. 

Hiking, biking and picnicking at Ultima Megève

Use autumn’s cooler climes for outdoor family fun while staying at Ultima Megève, connecting with the pristine nature of the French Alps. Start the day with a leisurely breakfast overlooking sweeping views on Mont Blanc, followed by a gentle walk, set to your pace, through archetypal alpine scenery accompanied by the tinkle of cow bells. A private guide will bring nature to life in the wildflower-strewn meadows and the golden larch forests: forage for berries, learn about medicinal herbs or spot the native goat-antelope, the chamois. 

For more high-octane thrills, try a mountain-biking adventure along rugged pathways, take a cold water plunge into a glacial lake, or head out on a guided night hike, illuminated by the moon, stars and your head torch.

A bird’s eye view above Megève

If you have a head for heights and a longing for adventure, an adrenaline-fuelled heli-tour across the snow-dusted ridges above Megève will give your family an extraordinary day out. Akin to a scene from a James Bond movie, you’ll ascend to the skies, chopper blades whirring. Or you may prefer to experience the mountain ranges by panoramic canopy plane; its glass roof allowing for incredible visibility and opportunities for photography. After exhilarating bird’s eye views over the Mont Blanc massif, return to the cosseting surrounds of Ultima Megève. Be welcomed home with a chef-prepared lunch before an afternoon in the spa, while the children are entertained by an engaging scavenger hunt and entertainment in the arcade games room. End the day with a cosy family movie in the chalet’s private cinema.

Family gatherings at Ultima Crans-Montana 

Our largest property, Ultima Crans-Montana, is ideal for big family celebrations. Our expansive and discreet mountain retreat is made up of two adjoining chalets with a large outdoor heated pool, creating an exclusive playground for large families to spend time together. Your family gathering is comprehensively crafted by us -  seamless and fun-filled for every family member from tiny tots to wise elders. As a group, take an adventurous hike along La Bise du Ro, walking along a 120-metre high footbridge, with forests set ablaze in autumn colours. Afterwards, parents can luxuriate in the spa with tailored treatments to soothe mind and body while children are happily engaged in an exhilarating treasure hunt. Bedtimes are magically effortless when younger children bunk down in the dedicated dormitory while adults relax in the sophisticated surrounds of the cigar lounge. 

Private chef experiences

Family dining is an important part of the experience, and we ensure our culinary offering is tailored precisely to your tastes. All of our properties have a private chef on hand to concoct delectable meals, from towering breakfast pancakes to Michelin-star-worthy dinners. If you have a family of foodies or wannabe bakers, spend an afternoon with the chef, perhaps visiting the local market, before whipping up a fabulous creation in the kitchen, or simply learning the art of a buttercream cupcake. For a more cultural experience, we’d be delighted to create a day out touring our local producers, from organic cheese-makers to the finest wineries. 

Accommodation tailored to you

At the end of every exciting day, come home to the outstanding surroundings of your private Ultima Collection property, such as our charmingly lavish alpine chalet in Megève, where a games room awaits for energetic children, and the spa calls for parents in need of rejuvenation. In the Swiss Alps, discover Ultima Crans Montana with its heated outdoor pool, cinema room, children’s room and vast private spa while in Gstaad, Ultima Hotel Gstaad invites you to enjoy the pleasures of this picture-perfect alpine village.

Family-first and full of autumn adventure, our Ultima Collection properties are ready to welcome you. Please get in touch with our team to start planning.