EXPLORE THE MAJESTY OF THE CHAMONIX VALLEY

Chamonix and its valley are dominated by the Mont Blanc chain to the south and the Aiguilles Rouges (red peaks) to the north.

The valley is of glacial origin and measures 17 km – from the Col des Montets at the northernmost point to the Taconnaz torrent. The town centre is situated at an altitude of 1035 metres. The highest village at the top of the valley is Le Tour (1462 metres).

The Arve, the main river of the upper Savoy, takes its source at the Col de Balme and flows a distance of 107 km through the Chamonix valley and down to Geneva where it joins the Rhône. The resident population of Chamonix is approximately 10,000 inhabitants. The number of visitors fluctuates enormously during the tourist season. In summer we receive up to 100,000 visitors per day and in winter around 60,000.

Chamonix offers a multitude of activities in summer and winter, with each area and season having its own merits.

Exploring in winter - A skier's paradise

Chamonix has a long history of Alpine events, including hosting the Winter Olympics in 1924. It's no wonder skiing in Chamonix is every skier's dream. Chamonix is not a purpose-built, ski in ski out resort, but rather a town which became the world capital of mountaineering.

Chamonix offers ski areas for all abilities. It is made up of five skiing domaines and one lift accessing the off-piste area of Aiguille du Midi. Facing Mont-Blanc are the sunny slopes of Le Brévent and La Flégère. Further down the Valley is Les Houches which hosts the Downhill World Cup. Grand Montets is for experts and off-piste enthusiasts. And the legendary 22 km long off-piste Vallée Blanche, with its breathtaking panorama. At the end of the Valley you will find the charming, family-orientated ski area Le Tour/Domaine de Balme.

Chamonix really is a snow lover's paradise with snow covered mountains, perfectly groomed slopes, and fabulous powder snow from morning to late afternoon. You can also enjoy cross-country skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing or husky sledging.

Après-ski takes place in several pubs and bars. And there’s a vibrant nightlife with plenty of live music. You can enjoy world-class dinners in gourmet restaurants which offer local, traditional specialties combined with world cuisine.

Exploring in summer – Nature in its purest form

Re-energize, relax, recuperate or push yourself to the limit with all Chamonix has to offer. Enjoy the majesty of Mont-Blanc and its surrounding peaks, fall in love with the alpine flower meadows and marvel at the mountain streams and lakes. Find secluded mountain refuges to soak up the atmosphere and recharge your batteries. 

Chamonix is a climbers or hikers paradise. The Valley offers 350 km of superbly maintained hiking trails for all levels. Chamonix is said to be the world capital of mountaineering.

Mountain-biking lovers can enjoy a variety of trails for all abilities with outstanding bike runs and unique panoramas. Trails vary in length and altitude and roll from village to village.

The 15-mile long Valley has six separate lift systems and boasts a rideable vertical range of over 2000 metres. First lifts generally open the 2nd week of June and most lifts close in September (please check exact lift opening and closing info as this is subject to change).

Or how about a round of golf in the heart of the mountains or a tennis lesson at the Centre Sportif? Chamonix Golf Course and Tennis Club are just a few minutes from the town centre. 

Paragliding, canyoning, hydro speed, rafting, swimming etc. are just a few of the sporting activities you can enjoy in the Valley or its surroundings areas.

After a long day outdoors, you can stroll along the streets of Chamonix, have an aperitif in a trendy bar or pub, then enjoy local specialties or a gourmet dinner in a restaurant. If you still have some energy left, spare some of it for the nightlife.