Chamonix is a legendary destination for alpine skiing. While the French Alps are home to some of the biggest and best ski resorts in the world, Cham’ remains an icon even among these other famous destinations.
Chamonix has long been a stomping ground for diehard skiers. In the streets of this mountain town, you’ll hear languages from every corner of the globe. The resort’s relatively high altitude produces some of the lightest and driest snow in all of Europe, and it continues to attract expert skiers eager to brave its challenging off-piste terrain.
Yet despite its reputation, Chamonix still has something to offer for everyone: a vibrant nightlife, six resorts that span across three countries, local gastronomic specialties, historic sites, and the list goes on. Discover this vast alpine paradise for yourself and find out why Chamonix has earned its current reputation.
Congratulations on selecting Chamonix as your Skican vacation destination! Although Cham’ is best known for its legendary skiing/riding, the area offers plenty of additional activities for you to enjoy during your stay.
The Chamonix valley is home to some legendary off-piste ski touring and backcountry skiing, as a way to discover and rediscover the mountain. The most famous off-piste descent is doubtless the Valley Blanche, accessed via the Aiguille du Midi cable car and offering several variants.
This glacial route is very popular in early spring, but the help of a mountain guide is strongly recommended. Be sure to pay attention to snow conditions and the weather forecast before your trip. An avalanche search device, a probe, and a shovel are essential gear.
Discover a variety of alpines landscapes on your journey along the Mont-Blanc Tramway, on the way to the foot of Mont-Blanc.This is the highest railway train in France. Starting in Le Fayet or Saint-Gervais, after a trip through forests and alpine prairies, skiers and hikers may access the Bellevue Plateau and the Le Prarion ski area at the heart of an exceptional panorama.
For more than 60 years, the Aiguille du Midi has been one of the most famous and one of the highest aiguilles in the world. From the centre of Chamonix, a 20 minutes ride with the Aiguille du Midi cable car takes you to the gateway of peaks.
From its height of 3,777 m, the Aiguille du Midi and its laid-out terraces offer a 360° view of all the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. A lift brings you to the summit terrace at 3,842 m, where you will have a clear view of Mont Blanc.
The more fearless try ‘A Step into the Void’, a 2.50 m glass cage that extends out over a 1000 m precipice. This product of modern architectural and technical prowess is a sensation-packed experience for all visitors.
Enjoy the majestic summits of the Valley of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and discover them from a new angle. Fly over mythical mountains and treat yourself to a magical view at the heart of the French Alps! Flights are available via glider, airplane, or helicopter from select providers.
Often described as the roof of Europe, every year the Mont-Blanc Massif attracts millions of visitors who come to admire its exceptional beauty. By the same token, thousands of alpinists aspire to reach the summit of Mont-Blanc.
Mont Blanc is a world capital in mountaineering. While the evolution of the sport leaves no passage, gully, or ice fall unconsidered, the great classics are still as appealing as ever. Mountaineering is not an exclusive sport and there are high-mountain routes to suit all levels of fitness and ability.
Ice climbing will show you another side to winter sports. While you may have never considered ice climbing, even a newcomer can enjoy this exciting activity. Explore the crystal-blue shapes of frozen rivers and waterfalls, heights and ledges on the Glace Cascade or other routes near Chamonix.
All year round, you can go ice skating on the 60 x 30 metres indoor Olympic rink in Chamonix. This rink is the home of the Chamonix Hockey Club, which was founded in 1910 and continues to play in the elite league of French ice hockey.
Come and enjoy your first winter sliding experience on a sledge. The kids will love it, but grown-ups will enjoy it as well.
Chamonix offers special sledging runs where you can ride on a disc sledge, toboggan, or traditional 'paret' sledge. Three sledging areas are specially equipped, maintained and made safe, suitable for all ages – your kids will love them!
