An Alpine Paradise
There are few places in the world which match the accessibility to awe inspiring landscapes such as Chamonix. A destination full of alpine stories, discoveries and attracting so many world leading athletes. Whether an Olympian or a local testing their ability amongst the steep peaks, Chamonix is a place we know well. It is here that we live most of the year and a place close to our hearts.
The variety of options on offer year round is hard to beat anywhere else on the planet (or maybe we’re a little biased!). There are options for everyone, whether you choose to come solo, with a partner, with friends or with the whole family.
At an elevation of 1,035 meters, Chamonix town is modest in terms of height for a ski resort. Although not typically a ski-in ski-out resort, Chamonix is definitely a year round playground. Often termed as the “Capital of the Alpine world” it sits below Mont Blanc, which towers above the Alps at 4810m. As Western Europe’s highest peak, it draws in climbers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe to get up close and explore. Given that not all travellers want to brave the rocky slopes and jagged peaks, Chamonix is also home to gentler pastures, and less strenuous activities.
Chamonix is definitely an all year resort and here we share the different seasons and what they offer to travellers.
Chamonix through the seasons
Winter- (December – March) Best for Ski & Snow enthusiasts
Immaculate pistes, powder-dusted peaks, and après-ski by the fire. This is the season for skiers, snowboarders, and those seeking the full alpine magic. For those not into winter sports, there’s plenty to see and do on the valley floor and using the lifts to get up high.
Spring (April-May) – Best for Peace & Uninterrupted views
Think wildflowers on the prairies, fewer people and a softer pace. Ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds, and enjoy the quiet beauty. If you want to get up high, there will only be the Montenvers train, or your walking legs!
Summer (June – August)- Best for Outdoor Adventure
These are normally the warmest months in the Alps. Lifts are open from Mid June so you can explore all the valley has to offer. These peak months come with higher prices & larger crowds. It is therefore recommended that activities, accommodation, restaurants etc are booked in advance.
Autumn (September – November)- Best for Food, Wellness & Escapes
In spite of the dropping temperatures at this time of year, Autumn brings incredible beauty in the valley. It’s a perfect time to enjoy wellness stays, lower hikes and enjoy restaurants with seasonal menus. To note, lifts are shut from mid- September, some restaurants, shops and hotels shut for mid-season holidays.
Top 10 popular activities, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
No matter what season or length of time you plan to visit Chamonix, below are 10 popular activities to do in Chamonix.
1 – Montenvers train to the Mer de Glace: Ride the Montenvers Railway to France’s largest glacier, the Mer de Glace. Explore its famous Ice Cave, carved anew each year.
HIdden insights: MOntenvers
- Excursion available in all seasons
- Best for: Families, Couples, Individuals, Alpinists
- Best time: In peak months, aim to get a morning train up to Montenvers. Avoid choosing trains back to Chamonix centre at the end of the day as they get very busy.
2 – Aiguille du Midi. The cable car to Aiguille du Midi whisks visitors to a dizzying height of 3,842 meters. Step into the glass box of “Step into the Void” for an unforgettable thrill.
HIdden insights: aiguille du midi
- Excursion available in all seasons
- Children: This is forbidden for under 3 years old and not advised before 5 years old.
- Don’t forget to check the online webcams so that you can check realtime conditions up at the top. Often you are above the clouds in the valley.
- Take extra clothing as it will be a lot colder up there.
- Best time: Early morning can be quieter and often has some of the clearer conditions.
3. Hike to Lac Blanc. One of Chamonix’s most popular day hikes and perhaps one of the most spectacular in the French Alps.
HIdden insights: Lac blanc
- Peak seasons can be very busy. Quickest route- use the Flegere lift to reduce the climb by 800 metres
- No swimming permitted in the lakes in this area to product the fragile ecosystems they contain
- Hike time: 3 hours round trip.
- Best for: Families with older children, Couples, Individuals
- Best time: Hiking access only available from Mid June – October due to snow fall. Get the first lift and escape some of the crowds, it gets busier and busier throughout the day. Alternatively September, grab a weekend lift up Flegère or if you’re feeling energetic, rise at dawn and walk from the valley floor to escape the crowds.
4. Tandem Paragliding above Chamonix. An opportunity to see Chamonix and Mont Blanc from a totally different perspective. Enjoy the magnificence of the mountains while enjoying the serenity of the flight.
HIdden insights: Paragliding
- An amazing way to see Mont Blanc in its glory
- Take an extra layer or two. Even on hot days it can be a lot colder when flying, and don’t forget your sunglasses.
- Best time to fly: June-August- most stable weather and warmest temperatures, September- October- stunning autumnal views, quieter flights. Early morning and Afternoon flights normally provide most stable conditions
- Tandem flights from 4 years old.
5 – Helicopter Flights: For an unmatched perspective of Mont Blanc, take a helicopter tour over the Alps—a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
HIdden insights: Helicopter flights
- Access hidden corners and perspectives that few ever see,
- Year round appeal to see the natural landscape throughout the seasons
- Minimum age of 8 years old
- Helicopter flights are dependable on the weather, early morning flights are normally necessary for the best weather window.
6- White water rafting. Various options on the Arve allow you to feel the thrill of white water rafting.
HIdden insights: White water rafting
- Best for: over 10 years old in the Chamonix valley, competent swimmer essential.
- Best time: mornings are best when the air temperature isn’t so different from the water.
- Activity full of adrenaline while also showcasing the views throughout the valley.
7 – Explore the town. Why not explore the varied shops in the town or enjoy a coffee while sitting outside on one of the many café terraces while taking in the views.
HIdden insights: Explore the town
- If you don’t feel drawn to the trails; a morning, afternoon or even a day spent in Chamonix centre is a great option. You can take it slowly and enjoy boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants and bustling squares framed by the mountains.
- There are multiple day spas on offer in the valley to allow you to sit back, relax and take in the splendour of the mountains.
- Never forget to look up to spot the differing perspectives of the mountains above.
8. A visit to Park Merlet – high above the Chamonix valley, visit an animal park with magnificent sweeping views and a chance to encounter Alpine wildlife.
HIdden insights: Park merlet
- This is the perfect antidote for high adrenaline activities in Chamonix. A chance to explore and connect to Alpine wildlife with spectacular backdrops.
- Best for: Families, Couples & individuals alike
- Best time: The Park is open from Spring
- It is a good walk uphill (10-30 mins) from the parking areas. Therefore for little legs, we would recommend one of the adults dropping off at the highest drop off point to save energy.
- Alternatively, there is a small shuttle bus which runs from Les Houches train station- check timings and availability as this doesn’t run every day.
- Wear hiking boots or trainers as the paths throughout the park are mountain trails
- Winter Private entry: you can book as a small group up to 8 to visit the park in the snow. This is a real adventure but be sure to have your fitness and feel comfy to hike in snowshoes uphill.
9. Vallorcine and Col des Montets: Relaxed Alpine village within the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve- explore Alpine beauty in a natural, tranquil setting.
HIdden insights: Vallorcine/Col des montets
- Feels like a world apart from the busyness of the main Chamonix valley.
- Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve is a peaceful space full of more than 350 animal species and over 550 species of plants.
- No dogs allowed on the trail, even on the lead- to protect the flora and fauna.
- Best for: Families, Couples & individuals alike
- Best time: this area can be enjoyed in any of the seasons but our favourite is Autumn. The valley shows off with the most beautiful array of colours, enhancing an already stunning backdrop.
10. Les Praz and “Paradis des praz” – a village just outside Chamonix, good coffee, beautiful walks, the Golf club & an alpine play area by a glacial river.
HIdden insights: Les praz/paradis des praz
- This is one of our favourites for all to enjoy
- Best for: Families, Couples & Individuals alike
- Best time: Our favourite time is summer, to make the most of the setting. It is also very striking in the Winter for snowy walks by the river.
- Grab a great coffee in a popular Chamonix bar/coffee shop- ‘Le Petit Social’.
- Walk along the Arve river, kids may enjoy seeing the rescue and police helicopter taking off and arriving at the helipad close to the river.
- A trip to “Paradis des Praz/The paradise of Les Praz”, a truly beautiful spot with a play area for children up to 9 years old. There is also plenty to enjoy for older children with the glacial river and woods around. Ponies are available to hire for a short ride around the woods during July and August.
Where to stay
There are accommodation for all needs and budgets in Chamonix Mont Blanc. With numerous options, from sprawling chalets to one bedroom mazots, spa offerings with rooms to large chain hotels. For couples, the ski town has many 1-2 bedroom apartments and luxury hotels to choose from, where not having a car is no issue at all.
For families travelling with children, we highly recommend staying in one of our catered ski chalets. Hand picked for their individual style and facilities, each one provides families with multiple options at all price levels. Please note some of our luxury ski chalets in Chamonix do require a car or driver service. We would be delighted to discuss the best accommodation option to suit the season, the guests coming and the length of stay.
Please see a few options below
Chalet de Chamonix
A stand-out luxury chalet, an elegantly restored Savoyarde farmhouse offering breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif. In a quiet part of the valley but only 5 minutes drive from the Les Houches ski lift.
Chalet de roche
Situated in a prime position with mesmerising views of Mont Blanc and its chain of mountains, A contemporary and luxury chalet with indoor wellness area.
Chalet Mont Blanc
The Chalet is nestled in woodland with spectacular views of Mont Blanc. A large property that welcomes up to 26 guests, ideal for multiple families, businesses or groups alike.
