AS I drift leisurely on top of the cobalt blue waves, watching towering mountains and lush greenery bob in and out of view, I could be in an exotic Caribbean getaway but the water is fresh – Alpine fresh. I’m in the French Alps.

Lake Bourget is France’s largest natural lake, boasting 10 beaches where families can relax on its sandy shores or take a dip in the warm waters without the sting of salt.

The Savoie region is better known for its world-class ski resorts, including Val d’Isere and Courchevel.

But with summer temperatures often reaching the 30s, from June to September skiers are replaced with hikers and bikers keen to explore the region’s well-established trails.

We’d arrived from Geneva airport, just under an hour's drive to the lake's biggest town, Aix-les-Bains, an ancient spa town. The whole area has a rich history, particularly the medieval town of Chambery, once the seat of the Dukes of Savoie, the longest-surviving royal house in Europe.

It’s hard to ignore the region’s staggering backdrop of jagged, snow-capped peaks and deep blue skies and my partner is keen to pursue the promise of a bike ride through the region's beautiful vineyards. Gliding on my electric e-bike past golden cornfields, the jaw-dropping panorama of Chartreuse National Park opens up before us, wildflowers blooming in shades of pink and yellow along the cycle path.

I’ve paid 10 Euros per day for the bike (twice the price of conventional bike hire) but it’s worth every penny. These magic little bikes allow you to go further and explore more of the region’s natural beauty without having to worry about overstretched legs.

We also embark on a trip to Lake Annecy, possibly France’s most iconic and cherished lake. It’s a stunning sight, with mountains reflected in the blue waters along with the colourful multi-coloured buildings of the eponymous romantic medieval town.

As we head back to Geneva, our final stop is Yvoire, a picturesque fishing village famous for its flowers.

It may be an area famed for its winter sports, but with its stunning lakes, beautiful vineyards and rich history, Savoie Mont Blanc holds it own as the perfect summer paradise.

TRAVEL FACTS :: Stephanie Maskery travelled to Savoie as a guest of Savoie Mont Blanc Tourism Board. For more information on accommodation and activities in the area, visit www.savoie-mont-blanc.com.

:: easyJet offers flights from Manchester and London to Geneva from £48 one way. Visit www.easyjet.com.

:: Accommodation at the three-star hotel Aquakub in Aix-les-Bains (www.aquakub.com) ranges from 90-185 Euros per night.

:: Information on e-bike rental can be found at www.velostation-chambery.fr Ends