Chamonix

Chamonix

Chamonix, jewel of the Alps

Presentation of the city

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, often simply called Chamonix, is a world-renowned mountain resort, nestled in the French Alps, in Haute-Savoie. Located at 1,035 meters altitude, at the foot of Mont-Blanc, the highest peak in Europe, the city is a true paradise for mountain sports and nature lovers. With about 9,000 inhabitants year-round, the population significantly increases during tourist seasons, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Chamonix

Summary

Geographical and demographic situation of Chamonix

Chamonix is located at the border between France, Italy and Switzerland, in a valley in the heart of the Alps. The city is easily accessible by the A40 highway and by train, with regular connections from Geneva, located about 90 kilometers away.

This strategic position makes it an ideal starting point to explore the spectacular landscapes of the Alps. The city houses about 9,000 residents, but this figure can triple in high season.

History and heritage of the city

Chamonix was founded in the Middle Ages, but it was in the 18th century that the valley began to attract the first tourists, fascinated by Mont-Blanc. Alpine tourism truly exploded in the 19th century, with the construction of the first hotels and the rise in popularity of mountaineering.

Among its heritage, one finds the famous Saint-Michel Church, built in the 16th century, as well as the many traditional chalets preserving the authenticity of the local architecture.

Cultural facilities

Cinéma Vox

The Vox Cinema offers a selection of international and French films in a modern setting in the heart of Chamonix.

Alpine Museum

The Alpine Museum traces the history of the Chamonix valley and the development of mountaineering with permanent and temporary exhibitions.

House of Memory and Heritage

This space is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of Chamonix’s cultural heritage.

Chamonix Library

A public library offering a wide selection of books, newspapers and magazines for all ages.

Cultural events

  • Mountain Music Festival: A unique musical gathering celebrating traditional Alpine music.
  • Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB): One of the world’s largest mountain endurance races.
  • Cosmojazz Festival: A jazz festival held in exceptional venues around the valley.
  • Christmas Market: A festive market that enlivens Chamonix during the holiday season.
  • Guides Festival: A celebration honoring mountain guides with activities and shows.

Must-see places to visit in the city or nearby

Aiguille du Midi

A spectacular cable car that takes you to 3,842 meters altitude for a breathtaking view of Mont-Blanc and the surrounding peaks. A truly must-see place, even if the cable car fare is quite high. In high season, remember to book in advance or risk long wait times. The Aiguille du Midi is truly part of the must-see places to visit in Haute-Savoie.

Mer de Glace

One of the largest glaciers in Europe, although recent years and global warming have done it much harm; accessible via the little rack railway train of Montenvers. Visitors can explore a cave carved in the ice, accessible thanks to a cable car from Montenvers, which spares long ladders.

train du montenvers
grotte de glace chamonix

Mont-Blanc

The highest peak in Europe is accessible to seasoned hikers under proper guidance. However, be careful, this is mountaineering and not just a simple hike. It is possible to organize ascents with local guides.

Mont blanc depuis Chamonix

Merlet Park

A natural area where you can observe local wildlife, such as ibex and chamois, in a splendid setting with a view of Mont-Blanc.

Parc Merlet

Lac Blanc

A must-do hike that leads you to an alpine lake with crystal-clear waters, offering a spectacular view of the Mont-Blanc range. A beautiful place but unfortunately overcrowded in high season.

La lac blanc - Chamonix

The best rated hotels

Find a hotel in Chamonix

Hôtel Mont-Blanc

This five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and a spa with a view of Mont-Blanc.
Address: 62 Allée du Majestic, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 05 64
Website: www.hotelmontblancchamonix.com

Héliopic Hotel & Spa

An elegant establishment offering direct access to the Aiguille du Midi and a large spa.
Address: 50 Place de l’Aiguille du Midi, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 54 55 56
Website: https://www.heliopic.com/

Grand Hôtel des Alpes

A historic hotel with elegant rooms and exceptional service.
Address: 75 Rue du Docteur Paccard, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 55 37 80
Website: www.grandhoteldesalpes.com

Hôtel l’Hermine Blanche

A warm hotel with a typically alpine atmosphere.
Address: 63 Chemin de la Croix des Pècles, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 16 45
Website: www.hermineblanche.com

Hôtel Les Aiglons

Offering a spa and a heated outdoor pool with mountain views.
Address: 270 Avenue de Courmayeur, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 55 90 93
Website: www.aiglons.com

Some must-visit restaurants

La Maison Carrier

Traditional Savoyard restaurant with regional dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
Price range: €€-€€€
Address: 44 Route du Bouchet, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 00 03
Website: https://www.hameaualbert.fr/fr/restaurant-de-pays

Albert 1er

A Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing French gastronomy with local products.
Price range: €€€€
Address: 38 Route du Bouchet, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 05 09
Website: www.albert1er.com

La Cabane des Praz

A restaurant located in a wooden chalet with a view over the Chamonix golf course.
Price range: €€-€€€
Address: 239 Route des Praz, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 23 27
Website: https://www.restaurant-cabane-chamonix.com/

Le Bistrot

A modern bistro offering creative cuisine with fresh products.
Price range: €€€
Address: 151 Avenue de l’Aiguille du Midi, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 57 64
Website: www.lebistrotchamonix.com

La Caleche

A must-visit to enjoy Savoyard fondue in a rustic setting.
Price range: €€-€€€
Address: 18 Rue du Docteur Paccard, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 55 94 68
Website: www.restaurant-lacaleche.com

Doing sports in Chamonix

Chamonix is world-renowned for its exceptional offer in mountain sports. Activities are varied and accessible to all levels, whether winter or summer sports.

  • Skiing and snowboarding: With its many ski areas such as Les Grands Montets, Le Brévent or La Flégère, Chamonix is a flagship destination for sliding sports enthusiasts. Off-piste skiing is possible for the more adventurous.
  • Mountaineering: Chamonix is the birthplace of mountaineering. The ascent of Mont-Blanc remains a major challenge, but many other routes are accessible in the valley for high-mountain lovers.
  • Hiking: In summer, Chamonix becomes a paradise for hikers. The Tour du Mont-Blanc trail is a must for walkers, offering spectacular panoramas.
  • Climbing: The Chamonix valley is renowned for its rock faces, with many climbing routes adapted to all levels, ranging from bouldering to big wall climbing.
  • Mountain biking: The mountain biking trails around Chamonix offer thrilling descents, with varied routes suitable for beginners as well as experienced cyclists.
  • Paragliding: Take to the skies with a paragliding session above the majestic mountains of Chamonix. Tandem flights are offered all year round.
  • Rafting and white-water sports: The Arve river, which runs through the valley, is ideal for rafting and kayaking. Guided descents are organized for all levels.

Sports facilities

Chamonix has a modern and comprehensive infrastructure to welcome athletes throughout the year.

Richard Bozon Sports Center

This sports complex offers an indoor Olympic swimming pool, a weight room, as well as a wellness area with sauna and hammam. It also has tennis courts and a climbing wall.

Chamonix Ice Rink

The Olympic ice rink welcomes both skating enthusiasts and professional hockey teams. It is also a must-visit leisure spot during winter.

Biathlon and cross-country skiing stadium of Planards

For cross-country skiing and biathlon enthusiasts, this stadium offers groomed tracks and adapted facilities to practice the sport in the best conditions.

Chamonix Golf Course

Located at the foot of Mont-Blanc, the Chamonix golf course is an 18-hole course offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, ideal for golf lovers.

Unusual activities

Chamonix also offers unique and unusual experiences for the most adventurous:

  • Sled dog rides: Discover the snowy landscapes differently by being guided by a pack of sled dogs. An authentic adventure in the heart of nature.
  • Ice climbing: Get initiated to climbing frozen waterfalls under the supervision of high mountain guides. An extreme but accessible experience for beginners.
  • Ski joëring: Pulled by a horse, practice skiing in an original and fun way on the snowy slopes of the valley.
  • Ice swimming: For the braver ones, it is possible to swim in mountain icy lakes, a practice that strengthens body and mind.
  • Ice tunnels of the Mer de Glace: Explore the ice galleries arranged inside the Mer de Glace glacier, an unforgettable experience in the heart of the glacier.
  • Tandem Paragliding from the Aiguille du Midi: an unforgettable flight that will let you discover the backside of the Chamonix peaks, and the entire valley seen from above.

School groups

Families and residents can rely on a complete educational offer in Chamonix with several schools:

  • Chamonix Primary School: A public school welcoming children from kindergarten to primary level.
  • Frison-Roche Middle School: The only middle school in the city, preparing youngsters up to the middle school diploma.
  • Roger Frison-Roche High School: Offering general and vocational education, notably oriented towards tourism and mountain professions.
  • Chamonix Montessori School: A private school applying Montessori pedagogy for young children.

Markets in the city of Chamonix

Chamonix hosts several regular markets where you can discover local products and Savoyard specialties:

  • Chamonix Market: Every Saturday morning, Place du Mont-Blanc. You will find fresh products and local specialties (cheeses, charcuterie, honey).
  • Organic Market: Tuesday afternoons, on Triangle de l’Amitié square, this market offers organic and ecological products with an emphasis on local supply chains.
  • Craft Market: In summer, a craft market takes place on Place Balmat, where you can discover local creations ranging from pottery to leather goods.

See all markets in Haute-Savoie

Public transport

Chamonix is well served by several means of public transport, facilitating travel in the valley:

  • Mont-Blanc Express: A train line connecting Chamonix to Martigny in Switzerland, passing through breathtaking landscapes.
  • Chamonix Bus Network: Free for card holders, it connects different districts of the city as well as ski resorts nearby.
  • Inter-resort shuttles: In winter, free or paid shuttles enable to reach the various ski areas in the Chamonix valley.
  • Taxis and VTC: Taxi and chauffeur-driven car services are available on demand.

Town hall

For any administrative request, here are the contact details of the Chamonix Town Hall:

Address: 38 Place de l’Église, 74400 Chamonix
Phone: +33 4 50 53 75 17
Website: www.chamonix.fr
Opening hours: Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm.

For skiing nearby

Chamonix is surrounded by several renowned ski resorts, perfect for winter sports lovers.

  • Les Houches: Only 8 km from Chamonix, this resort is ideal for families with varied slopes and an amazing view of Mont-Blanc.
  • Courmayeur (Italy): Located 20 km away through the Mont-Blanc tunnel, Courmayeur offers a large ski area on the slopes of the Italian side of Mont-Blanc.
  • Megève: About 40 km from Chamonix, this chic and authentic resort offers slopes suitable for all levels and a charming village.
  • Vallée Blanche Area: Accessible from the Aiguille du Midi, this off-piste area is an unmissable adventure for experienced skiers.

Chamonix is a unique destination where nature, sports, culture and heritage come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you are an athlete, a mountain lover or seeking relaxation, this Alpine city will enchant you.