Mountains rule in Chamonix, France. Some of the world's best expert skiing can be found on Chamonix’s jagged peaks and glaciers that rise 12,500 feet above the valley floor. A proving ground for alpinists, mountaineers and skiers from all over the world, Chamonix, or “Cham” as the locals and core skiers call it, has more of an authentic alpine flair than your regular ski resort glitz and glamour. Chamonix is renowned as an avid mountaineer destination, so you can expect to see a lot of advanced skiers and boarders schlepping climbing equipment around. Tucked beneath the shadow of 15,767-foot Mont Blanc—France’s treasure—the power and beauty of this area are unmatched.
This “bucket list” destination is the oldest skiing area in the French Alps, and is popular as both a destination and weekend trip. Chamonix’s village is brimming with tons of stores, from jewelry stores and designer boutiques to high performance outdoor gear shops. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy an extensive Nordic trail, ski touring and winter paragliding. The casino and a variety of nightlife hot spots will fill your evenings. The Mt. Blanc ski pass also includes Courmayeur, Italy, and Megeve and Les Contamines, France.
...in the lively mountain town of Chamonix.
...at a top elevation of 12,605 feet on the Aiguille du Midi to the Valle Blanche.
...by flying into Geneva International Airport for ultimate convenience.
…breathtaking views of Mont Blanc—the tallest peak in Europe.
…the idyllic villages and shops.
…190+ delightful restaurants.
…yourself to ritual at Hotel Les Aiglons Resort & Spa.
...guided skiing to see and ski the best of Mont Blanc.
Chamonix France offers five main ski areas, accessed via the area’s mini base villages; 50 lifts transport skiers of all abilities to the resort's famed slopes. Le Brevent cable car begins just above the town and climbs to more than 8,000 feet. Les Houches, Le Tour and sunny La Flegere are where beginners and intermediates will find many trails to ski. Les Grands Montets is the most popular area for the intermediate and the more advanced skiers. Strong intermediate and above skiers will want to challenge themselves in the area off of the Aiguille du Midi, reached by a two-stage cable car. This 8,00+-foot descent on and along the glacier of Vallee Blanche features spectacular mountain scenery dominated by Mont Blanc, Europe's highest mountain.