One of the most famous ski areas in the world, Chamonix provides the perfect combination of Alpine heritage and incredible snowsports terrain.
It’s no surprise that so many skiers return to Chamonix year upon year; this is a resort with endless entertainment.
The resort’s four ski areas all offer something a little different. Les Houches’ varied slopes are a family-friendly favourite, dotted with cosy mountain restaurants. Brévent-Flégère offers sun-drenched south-facing slopes, while over on the Swiss border, Balme is a true winter wonderland with gentle forest trails and unparalleled views. Intermediate to expert skiers will always be drawn to the Grands Montets, the ultimate mountain Mecca for free riders and ski tourers. Here there are countless off-piste routes to explore, and when the snow is deep, there’s nowhere else we’d rather be.
Getting between the four areas couldn’t be easier, thanks to free bus and train shuttles between the slopes.
Plus, if you purchase the wider Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass, you’ll also get access to the slopes of Megève and its surrounding resorts (the Espace Evasion ski area) as well as Courmayeur in Italy.
This winter, Chamonix is giving skiers further incentive to enjoy these incredible areas. Between 7 January and 4 February, and 7 March to 1 April, guests staying three or more nights in paid accommodation in Chamonix will receive free ski lessons.
Designed to support local businesses and reward visitors returning to the area, this fantastic offer includes two- to six-day group ski lessons (downhill, freeride, ski touring, cross-country) and children’s lessons.
However, reasons to visit Chamonix go way beyond just skiing. An impressively easy-to-reach destination, the valley holds five uniquely charming villages – Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine, all of which offer a huge variety of fantastic accommodation options.
Chamonix itself is undeniably the most recognisable, with architecture spanning three centuries and an Alpine prestige that permeates all areas of the village.
There’s something for everyone in Chamonix, whether you’re a foodie itching to sample the best local produce or a hardened adventurer looking to stock up on the latest mountain gear.
Non-skiers can experience the quiet magic of Europe’s most incredible mountainscapes through a range of outdoor adventures, explore the International Crystal Museum (opening for winter 2021/22) or simply relax in style at the QC Terme, Chamonix’s impressive wellness centre.
Finally, a trip to Chamonix is not complete without a journey up the Aiguille du Midi (and its exhilarating Step into the Void glass floor skywalk at 3,842m altitude) as well as a ride on the unbelievably picturesque Montenvers Mer de Glace train.
This winter, you can experience Chamonix’s Alpine heritage for yourself, as the Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix (the oldest guiding company in the world) celebrates its 200th anniversary. To mark the occasion, historic buildings in Chamonix will be illuminated every night throughout December and January in a beautiful display, marking an historic moment in the resorts’ developing Alpine legacy. en.chamonix.com