summer
Briancon does not shut down after the ski season like most ski villages. There is plenty to do during the summer and the ski shops rent out mountain bikes and wet suits. The lifts run from June to September (check the official website for exact dates) giving easy access to high alpine paths and downhill mountain bike trails (maps in the flat).
Both road and mountain biking are popular in the summer - Briancon regularly hosts Le Tour de France and the World Mountain Bike series.
http://www.serre-chevalier.com/en/summer/activities/
The Romans discovered the thermal springs at Monetier les Bains and the spa has recently been rebuilt. There is also an indoor and outdoor 'aqua park' about 5 minutes walk from the flat. A lovely 'bio pool' using filtered river water recently opened at Chantemerle.
http://www.serre-chevalier.com/en/summer/activities/swimming-pool-lake/
http://www.vert-marine.com/briancon/
The apartment is next to the Guisane river about 200 meters before it joins the Durance which is a mecca for white water rafting and kayaks. It flows to Lac Serre-Poncon at Embrun where sailing and many other water sports are possible. In June and early July the rivers near Briancon provide some of the best whitewater in Europe.
The local climbing options are renowned for their scope and variety. Briancon hosts the World Climbing Championships every July and there are many Via Ferrata in the local area.
Briancon has a very active Tourist Information office that organises musical, historic and cultural events throughout the year. The extensive Vauban fortifications that surround the town are of particular interest and often used for the events. The medieval 'Old Town' of Briancon is a walled citadel with UNESCO World Herritage status.
Every Sunday and Wednesday Briancon hosts a street market with local French and Italian produce sold direct by the farmers and producers.
The best aspect of Briancon and Serre Chevalier is the climate. Lovely fresh mountain air and 300 days of sunshine every year !
