Activities in Chamonix

Chamonix is a charming, historic town nestled in the French Alps at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe.

The majestic, snow-capped peaks and cascading glaciers which put it on the map over a hundred years ago remain as impressive as ever, continuing to draw visitors from across the world. And when you consider how much the mountains have to offer, you can see why.

In winter, the skiing is world-class with an extensive network of ski runs and lifts, the highest of which takes you up to a staggering 3,842m. The off-piste skiing is second to none, with endless options for ski touring, too. You can also get involved in cross-country skiing, snow-shoe walking, ice climbing and mountaineering.

In summer, being amongst the lush, Alpine countryside with snowy mountains and glaciers as a back drop certainly leaves a strong impression. There are plenty of activities on offer, including hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering, mountain-biking, rafting and paragliding.

For the less adventurous or able, you can still get high into the mountains using the ski lifts or the impressive mountain trains. All are open throughout the summer and winter providing spectacular views, not least of the famous ‘Mer de Glace’ - a huge glacier flowing down from Mont Blanc.

But Chamonix also has a lot to offer besides the mountains. You can play tennis, golf, swim or ice-skate both indoors and outdoors. There’s also an animal park, skateboarding park, children’s fun park, treetop rope centre, luge, paint-balling, bowling, mini golf, snooker, spa and cinema, to name a few. You certainly won’t get bored!

The town itself has a lively atmosphere, and strolling around the pedestrianised centre is a common pass-time. There are also dozens of restaurants and bars spilling out onto the streets, plenty of shops, and even an outdoor market on Saturdays.