Alps: Lakes and Peaks

Six days between alpine lakes and legendary peaks, from Lake Geneva to the Briançon area. The route links Lake Geneva, the turquoise Lake Annecy, Chamonix and the Aiguille du Midi facing Mont Blanc, before reaching Briançon, France's highest town. It's an immersion in the Alps from north to south: lake swims, dizzying cable cars, mountain passes and highland villages. The high roads are superb but winding — allow plenty for journey times and check pass openings outside summer. Summer offers the best conditions to combine swimming and high mountains; pack warm clothes, as evenings stay cool at altitude even in July.