ALPES-AZUR.COM http://www.alpes-azur.com Tue, 08 May 2012 14:45:22 +0000 en hourly 1 The Alps And How They Changed History http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/23/the-alps-and-how-they-changed-history/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/23/the-alps-and-how-they-changed-history/#comments Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000 www.alpes-azur.com http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=15 The sightseeing tour of the Alps has become an easier trip since the Via Alpina, Europe’s trans-Alps trail was established in 2002. Before this trail was completed you would of traveled with 30 pounds of supplies on your back over thousands of miles. There are now 5 international trails covering over 3,100 miles. The trails starts in Slovenia in the East and end up in Monaco on the West coast. Since 2005 tiny villages in Slavic and French farms and vineyards have been built up along the way.Get more information here.  You can now hike from hut to hut along the mountain range’ s on a main trail or dine on local foods along the way in the village lodges.

Not everyone wants to hike the whole length so tailored trips of different sections have been established for your comfort. You can take a guided tour where your loads are carried for you and your outfitters will take you on your personalized itinerary.

Mules are packed to take you through the high Alps of Switzerland and Italy and in France you will be stunned by the soaring rock faces and beautiful rivers. In the off season the ski slopes open up to a haven for mountain bikers.

Each of the seven states offer tours to thrill the whole family and history is all abound.

]]> http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/23/the-alps-and-how-they-changed-history/feed/ 0 Why The Alps Served History So Importantly http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/22/why-the-alps-served-history-so-importantly/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/22/why-the-alps-served-history-so-importantly/#comments Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=14 The Alpine Valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The earliest historical evidence in the Alps shows Neanderthal habitation. Since then, the Alps have played a critical role in the boundaries between many different cultures. The Alpine passes have also had a great significance in many military battles.

There are three district regions of the Alps: Western, Central, and Eastern. Each one has had its own history of control struggles. The French fought for the Western Alps all the way from the the mid 1300s to the mid 1800s when France won the counties of Nice and Savoy, becoming the ruler of the entire Western side.You can find a quick rundown here The most formative event for the Central Alps was the formation of the Swiss Confederacy, which took place from 1291 to 1516. It involved the mountain cantons and the Grisons and Valais independent confederations. The Eastern Alps have had regular turnover of control since the 1300s up through post World War I.

The Alps remain an important boundary between French, German, Italian, and South Slavic linguistic borders. The region preserves archaic dialects including Walser German or Romance Lombardic and Romaish. Because of the complicated history of the region, the current international borders do not always match the languages and attitudes of the Alpine residents.

]]> http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/22/why-the-alps-served-history-so-importantly/feed/ 0 The Historical Sites To See In The Alps http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/18/the-historical-sites-to-see-in-the-alps/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/18/the-historical-sites-to-see-in-the-alps/#comments Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=13 Sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria is the picturesque country of Liechtenstein. A guided four-day, three night tour in mountain huts awards hikers with the most awesome panoramic mountain views of Liechtenstein. There are many day hiking and bicycling trails with memorable views of mountain crags, tranquil villages, forests and friendly people. To begin a unique hike ride the Sareis chairlift up to the Sareiserjoch. Hike to the Augstenberg or Naadkopf peak.

Vaduz, the capital and home of The Prince of Liechtenstein is a city of medieval, gothic and baroque structures. A guided two-hour tour takes you to the Government Building and the Vaduz Cathedral, past the Museum of Fine Arts and Town Hall. Learn about the state of Liechtenstein, the Princely Family and the people of Liechtenstein.

The Tower of the Red House is a prominent landmark. The house was built in the middle ages and the tower added in 1904. Tour the Hofkelleria, the Princes’ wine cellar. Taste award winning wines in a cozy atmosphere. The wine trail takes you from vine to wine through interpretive signs and illustrations.

The Postage Stamp Museum (Briefmarkenmuseum) is very popular. Admission is free. Special exhibits highlight rare stamps from Liechtenstein, historical documents and historical postal service equipment.

]]> http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/18/the-historical-sites-to-see-in-the-alps/feed/ 0 The Alps: Must-Do List http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/05/the-alps-must-do-list/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/05/the-alps-must-do-list/#comments Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=11 The Alps have a storied history surrounding them and people from all over the world make pilgrimages to this area to ski, shop and simply relax. Popular culture is steeped in references to this region and you’ll find mentions of “The Alps” everywhere from direct.tv movies to the halls of Congress. If this is the year you’re lucky enough to make it here we’ve got a few suggestions for you on what not to miss on your trip
Hang Gliding – If you make it to Interlaken you’ve got to treat yourself to a hang gliding lesson. It’s terrifying and life changing all at once and you’ll be hard pressed to get a better view of any part of the Alps.
Schilthorn – Another classic Swiss Alps destination, this spot provides arguably the best skiing in The Alps as well as breathtaking scenery to boot. If you’ve come to this region to get the classic experience, this is a must-see.
Bernina Express – Make your way through The Alps on an old-school railway system and experience the trip of a lifetime. You’ll see some unbelievable sights and get waited on hand and foot…what’s not to love?

]]> http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/08/05/the-alps-must-do-list/feed/ 0 Why The Alps Are The Best Place http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/06/20/why-the-alps-are-the-best-place/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/06/20/why-the-alps-are-the-best-place/#comments Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=9 Anyone who has the chance to vacation in the Alps should consider themselves very lucky. It is an incredible area for tourists in the summer and winter both. Skiing, snow boarding and all winter sports are popular. Summers bring visitors to the region to hike, bicycle and raft the local rivers.

Seven different Countries are home to the Alps. Many areas can understand English, but be prepared to have multiple different languages spoken. It will all depend on where you are. Switzerland has a fun way to travel.Confused? Here ‘s a little help . The Glacier Express is popular with tourists. The scenery is incredible and the trip can be very enjoyable. It is called express because that is exactly what it is. Bring along a picnic lunch and enjoy the journey. The price is reasonable and some passes are accepted. Discounts are also available.

Gondola rides are something that tourists love to do in this area. It gives a chance to see the beauty from a birds eye view. Be sure to bring a camera because there are picture moments everywhere. The Alps should be on everyone’s bucket list. No one is ever sorry. It is a favorite with people from all Countries. Call your travel agent today and you will soon be on your way to a memorable trip.

]]> http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/06/20/why-the-alps-are-the-best-place/feed/ 0 Traveling To The Alps Is Wonderful http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/05/27/traveling-to-the-alps-is-wonderful/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/05/27/traveling-to-the-alps-is-wonderful/#comments Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=8 Traveling To The Alps Is Wonderful

If you ask any person who has ever had the pleasure of going, they will tell you traveling to the Alps is wonderful. Beauty and history combined in such a majestic setting that is educational and memorable for the whole family. Whether it’s hitting the slopes, site seeing, or getting in touch with nature, no other tourist destination can compare with the wonder and enchantment that surrounds this beautiful location.

The Gornergrat in the Swiss Alps is a scenic railroad that offers a breath taking view and takes you all the way up to the peak. Or travel to the Austrian Alps and visit Salzburg’s Old Town. Walk along the city and truly get a taste for the culture and witness the amazing architecture the city has to offer. Passing through the French Alps offers you a unique blend of France by taking an 8 day tour showing you the best experiences France has to offer. Created by locals who have lived, loved and know the true beauty of this area allowing you to see what regular tourist groups miss. Smaller groups of 15 makes this a more comfortable setting for families and friends alike. Capture experiences for a lifetime.

]]> http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/05/27/traveling-to-the-alps-is-wonderful/feed/ 0 Why The Alps Are A Great Place http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/05/21/why-the-alps-are-a-great-place/ http://www.alpes-azur.com/2011/05/21/why-the-alps-are-a-great-place/#comments Sat, 21 May 2011 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.alpes-azur.com/?p=7 The European Alps are a phenomenon of Mother Nature that is often a once in a lifetime chance to see. From the mountainous beauty to the rich history and culture, The Alps are a favorite vacation destination.

The Alps, coming from the Latin word, Alpes, have been inhabited since pre-historic times and much of it was basically a feudal society until the 19th century. Primary languages spoken in the Alps are Italian, German and and French. Today you can find quaint bed and breakfasts throughout the Italian and Swiss Alps, as well as railways that give you a scenic and cultural overview of this historic mountain range.I found some more information here. Walking tours are also available, yet cover less of an expanse.

And finally, let’s not forget the skiing. Few parts of the world offer better skiing conditions all year round, with resorts and chalets that can turn any trip into a luxury getaway. Mt. Schilthorn is a whopping 9,842 feet and is one of the premier ski areas in Switzerland, with breathtaking views as an added bonus. Skiing, and other winter sports like snowboarding are so popular in the Alps that there are even ski museums, including the Ski Museum in Kitzbuhel and the Alpines Skisportsmuseum in Murren.

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