The Massif of Mont Blanc lies in the northern Alps, straddling the French, Swiss, and Italian borders, and has the highest peak in Europe, Mont Blanc itself, at 4,807 metres (15,771 feet).

Five of the alpine countries (Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland,) have formed an organisation called The Alpine Tourist Commission. The mission of this organization is to promote the Alps, as a destination in their own right.

In Switzerland you traverse the Alps across the Valais and Chablais regions, on a trail of countless points of interest and a variety of mountain sports to enjoy.

For example, visit the town of Saas Fee, also known by its pretty nickname, “the pearl of the Alps”. At 1,800 metres (5,906 feet), this village is lovingly guarded by thirteen peaks, all higher than 4000 metres (13,124 feet), and among which is the Dôme, the very highest peak in Switzerland at 4,545 metres (14,912 feet).

Le Pavilion des Glaces, the largest ice grotto on earth, is a dream world. Despite being perpetually covered in snow and ice, it has a reputation for melting people’s hearts – which explains why so many couples decide to get married here!

In Austria, The Tryrol gives you a magnificent impression of the Alps. The Grossglockner, at an altitude of 3,797 metres (12,458 feet), is the highest point in the mountain range on this side of the border. The Tyrol appeals in many ways, for the mountains and the sporting opportunities available, both winter and summer, as much as for the picturesque villages set against gorgeous mountain scenery – not to mention the warm welcome from the locals, proud of their culture and their enticing cuisine.

In Italy, six regions converge on the Alps. The national parks of the Val (valley) d’Aoste, where native fauna and flora are protected, also offer visitors views of huge alpine glaciers, from Gran Paradiso to the Matterhorn and from Mont Blanc to Monte Rosa.

The Dolomites, which run through the Veneto and Alto Adige regions, are another natural wonder attracting alpinists as well as hikers. Nature lovers come to explore the numerous (approximately 1,500) different species of plants growing in the forests, which are among the largest in Europe. Cortina d’Ampezzo, the symbol of this region, is snuggled up in a natural amphitheatre created in the hollow of the mountains. In France, the ascent of Mont Blanc is a challenge for all alpinists. Jacques Balmat and Dr. Michel Paccard were the first to make its summit, in 1786.

For those who want to follow in their footsteps, be forewarned that it’s no small undertaking! A serious preparatory training period is essential and you will have to hire the services of an experienced mountain guide.

To ascend on foot, you must go in the summer (July or August), when you start your climb from the village of Saint-Gervais-Les-Bains (France).

The best time to ascend on skis, depending on the year, is between March and June. Only expert skiers are permitted to make this ascent. Usually you start off from Plan de l’Aiguille.

The German Alps will lead you to Bavaria and its unique culture, nestled in the mountains like a gem in a jewellery box. The abundance of lakes and ski runs provide for very active holidays. The Zugspitze, the highest summit in Germany, tops out at 2,963 metres (9,721 feet).

The Julian Alps, in Slovenia, perhaps less well-known by the general public, are a veritable paradise for mountain-lovers and skiers. The Triglav National Park is an ideal place for hikers.