Resort Information : Chamonix, Mont Blanc Massif, France

About Chamonix

History of Chamonix

Chamonix is an ancient, traditional Alpine town with a long history of exciting winter sports activities. Chamonix is proud to have been the location for the first winter Olympic games in 1924 and boasts some of the best skiing and scenery in the world. The ski resort of Chamonix is situated in the valley of the spectacular Mont Blanc mountain which, at 15,770 feet, is the highest mountain in Western Europe, reaching over the borders of France, Switzerland and Italy. With 6 ski areas, covering 155km of outstanding pisted trails for all standards of skier, Chamonix has it all. The adaptable Chamski pass is the key to this versatile resort's diverse range of winter sports suiting every speciality. Expert skiing enthusiasts will be seduced by the some of the worlds greatest runs including a 13 miles descent from the Vallee Blanche glacier and Sea of Ice which is the highest lift served vertical drop and is certainly not for the nervous! Those seeking a more sedate skiing experience are also well catered for with a number of gentle green runs that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain landscape.

Accommodation in Chamonix

The Chamonix ski resort accommodation is extensive and provides a variety of self catered and catered ski chalet accommodation to suit every budget. Warm and inviting traditional chalets huddle together in the shadow of the majestic Mont Blanc mountain and are the perfect retreat from which to view some specatacular Chamonix sunsets. There are in excess of 100 restaurants in Chamonix, some of which are situated on the mountainside, all offering an impressive range of delicious cuisine. Chamonix has a reputation for some great Apres Ski so whether you are searching for lively surroundings or a more restful atmosphere, there are a good number of bars to choose from. The town centre has some delightful cobbled streets which play host to a vast range of impressive shops, and the free bus/train travel ensures that visitors can move around easily. Some parts of Chamonix have been designated car free areas which make it a particularly safe place for families with young children.

Activities in Chamonix

The long mountaineering history associated with Chamonix makes it a climbing enthusiasts paradise and it's ice climbing terrain is legendary. There are many extreme sports on offer in Chamonix including paragliding, luging and 40km of cross country skiing all the way to Argentiere linked by some incredible black runs. Powder skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the thrill of the extensive off piste as well as the Les Grand Montets which consists mostly of challenging black runs with a few easier pistes dotted in between. With 17km of designated trails, snow shoeing is a great way to explore the Chamonix area and to become at one with the mountains. White water sports are also popular pastimes and the ice rink is great for open air skating when the weather allows. The summer season is equally exciting. There is a lively Saturday market, golf, tennis, swimming, paintballing, 10 pin bowling, a cinema and even a casino. Children are exceptionally well catered for in both the summer and winter seasons with a wide range of activity courses packed with loads of exciting pursuits that are guaranteed to entertain.