Ski Holidays in Chamonix
Situated in France’s Haute-Savoie region, it is nestled cosily in the shadow of the iconic Mont Blanc. Known worldwide for its challenging runs, fantastic off-piste and excellent snow conditions, Chamonix is undoubtedly the place to visit for thrill-seeking snowsports enthusiasts.
Chamonix’s history is steeped in snowsports. In 1924, it hosted the first-ever Winter Olympics and has since been regarded by many as the birthplace of Alpine skiing. It is still as popular as ever among the snowsport and ski holiday industry and welcomes skiers and holidaymakers from all over the world every year.
Bordered by Italy and Switzerland, the Chamonix ski area covers a relatively modest 150km ski terrain. However, its slopes reach an impressive 3,842m height featuring some thrilling and challenging runs that will test the worlds most experienced skiers.It has a state of art snowpark and excellent treelined glacier runs perfect for boarders and freestylers. It is also famous for its outstanding off-piste terrain, having one of the longest off-piste runs in Europe.
There is a lot more to Chamonix than snowsports. It is well known for its vibrant apres ski scene and nightlife. It also has plethora of restaurants across the village and on the mountain, serving a wide selection of cuisines from traditional Savoyard to continental dishes. An overall complete ski resort and thriving town, Chamonix has something for everyone.
Chamonix's ski area is as dramatic as the scenery surrounding it. The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly the Aiguille du Midi cable car, whisking you up to a dizzying 3,842m for access to the legendary Vallée Blanche - a 20km off-piste glacier run requiring a guide but offering unparalleled high-mountain thrills. Across the valley, Brèvent and Flégère offer sun-drenched slopes with front-row views of Mont Blanc's towering face, while Grands Montets serves up some of the Alps' most challenging in-bounds terrain when open
Over in Le Tour, gentler slopes provide respite for developing skiers, and family-friendly Les Houches features excellent tree-lined runs. With elevations ranging from 1,035m in town up to the high alpine zones, snow conditions can vary dramatically - the upper sectors like Grands Montets and Aiguille du Midi typically hold snow superbly with annual accumulations often exceeding 8 metres, while lower slopes can be more variable. Only about 30% of pistes have snowmaking, concentrated mainly in beginner areas, so timing your visit for peak winter months ensures the best conditions.
Chamonix is the original ski resort. It hosted the 1st winter Olympics in 1924 and has been welcoming skiers, boarders and mountain lovers alike for generations.
Chamonix has an amazing selection of places to stay. From budget apartments all the way up to luxurious hotels!
There is something for everyone in Chamonix. Great beginner slopes close to the resort centre, tree runs and some really steep runs if you head to Argentiere and Les Grands Montets. If you are venturing off into the backcountry, please make sure you have a guide. There is some dangerous stuff to do out there!
Apres ski is a little bit different in Chamonix…you party back in town once you’ve finished your skiing for the day. Don’t worry though, this just means it carries on all the way past dinner time.
With a Folie Douce hotel and Chambre Neuf’s live bands, you’ll never want to come home!
Le Bistrot is a fabulous gourmet restaurant serving innovative modern cuisine mixed in with local the local cuisine. It offers daily specials and an à la carte menu; worth checking out. Le Panier des 4 Saisons is quirky little restaurant with a cosy atmosphere. As the name implies, its menu is inspired by the four seasons and features traditional dishes with a creative twist, using fresh local produce. La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is a mountain hut located near the Brévent cable car. It is popular for its south facing terrace with stunning views. The menu offers tasty dishes with locally sourced produce.
Chambre Neuf
This is an institution. Chambre Neuf, is a staple in the Chamonix party scene and a much-recommended apres ski hang-out spot.
Folie Douce
You’ve all heard of Folie Douce but one of their newest ventures is taking over a hotel! The Folie Douce team have created a space that is just as mad as you can imagine!
