Chamonix – Mont-Blanc
RECONNECTING WITH NATURE
THE CITY OF CHAMONIX
This small town of 8,900 inhabitants is surrounded by the villages of Les Houches, where we set down our suitcases, and Argentière, which form an almost urban continuity with it. Chamonix is not just an Alpine ski resort, it's a complete destination in the heart of the Alps. Here, mountaineering, the art of living, shopping, culture, well-being and the contemplation of Mont-Blanc and glaciers, before they disappear, are all reasons to visit.
Chamonix offers a diversity of activities all year round, so whether it's summer, spring, winter or autumn, there's always something going on. Even in November, just before the slopes open, there's still plenty going on. Chamonix is much more than a ski resort, it's a true mountain experience, an authentic tourist rendezvous offering shops, museums, a cog railway, a cable car leading to an altitude of almost 4,000 meters, as well as a plethora of starred hotels and restaurants, and where "urban skiing" also finds its place. A must: ski down the Mer de Glace with a local guide.
MORE THAN A RESORT
Rather urban, Chamonix's architecture bears witness to its rich tourist past. Like its spa counterparts, Chamonix's art nouveau architecture is imbued with mountain codes. There are some fine palaces and buildings made of granite and local stone, all rendered in soberly colored ochre. A beautiful mountain stream runs through the commune: the Arve. This torrent descends from the Mont Blanc glaciers and flows into the Rhône some 100 km further on.
Where Alpine Adventures Soar High
In terms of downhill skiing, Chamonix offers 4 ski areas on 4 slopes, with just over 110km of marked runs, 90% of which are at altitudes above 2000m.
Les Houches - Prarion (1008m - 1900m): The ideal family ski area, with both accessible and technical runs, linked to Saint-Gervais by the Mont Blanc tramway. It offers sunny skiing with a beautiful view of the Chamonix valley and forest skiing for a magical atmosphere - 55 km of runs.
Brévent - Flégère (2,525m): The ski area facing Mont Blanc, with breathtaking panoramic views. A ski area directly accessible from the center of Chamonix or from Les Praz.
Argentière - Les Grands Montets (2,765m): The area for experienced skiers on groomed runs or off-piste. Much appreciated by snowboarders for the length of its runs. A high-altitude, rather technical area located between the Argentière glacier and the Mer de Glace - 28 km of runs.
Balme - Vallorcine: (2270m): The perfect alpine atmosphere and gentle slopes for beginners 29km
These unconnected areas are located at key points in the valley, all in exceptional surroundings. The Vallée Blanche descent is the highlight of these itineraries: from the summit of the Aiguille du Midi at 3,842 meters above sea level, an iconic off-piste adventure awaits skiers: the Vallée Blanche descent to the Mer de Glace. Sometimes, when snow conditions are favorable, this epic 2,800-meter descent leads all the way down to the valley, offering a 100% natural experience. Otherwise, it ends at Montenvers, accessible by cogwheel train. The technical nature of the descent varies according to snow conditions, but any skier comfortable off-piste can tackle it. However, the presence of a guide is highly recommended, as he or she knows the intricacies and dangers of the glacier, ensuring safe navigation through crevasses and potential hazards. As for cross-country skiing, there are some 50km of trails to choose from.
The Sublime’s Selection
ACCOMMODATION
Les Granges d'En Haut: Set in the heart of a preserved natural environment, this five-star hotel residence boasts 14 individual, traditional chalets, all perfectly integrated. Ideally located close to the Les Houches ski lifts, each 180 m² chalet offers four double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, as well as an exclusive sauna. In addition to these distinctive features, the complex offers a sumptuous spa and refined restaurant to complete the guest experience.
APÉRO AT ROSE DU PONT
Once upon a time, there was an all-pink house sitting opposite Her Majesty Mont Blanc. A magnificent establishment with a pink façade, where it's good to chat, gossip, blab, nibble, pick, have fun, contemplate and dream over a good 'Citron chaud'.
his building is often associated with the legend that its facade is the result of the dismantling of a building exhibited at a World's Fair, perhaps in Paris, Interlaken or Brussels. No documents to date confirm this story, but the building nevertheless bears witness to a flourishing period in Chamonix, known as the Belle-Époque. In any case, it is a symbol of Chamonix's growing urbanization.
HIGH ALTITUDE DINING
Come on over and ask for Serge Sozonoff at les Vieills Luges, who is now at the helm of this superb alpine farmhouse, transformed into a high-altitude restaurant nestled along the slopes of Les Houches. Les vieilles Luges is well worth a visit, and we recommend snowshoeing for night excursions (on request). We recommend the 'Pecan Pie', just crazy.
AFTER SKI
The Hotel 'La Folie Douce', housed in the former 'Club Med' in Chamonix, is the place to go for a drink, where all generations meet in a friendly, free atmosphere in an exceptional, festive setting at the foot of Mont Blanc.
A place bursting with life, where all generations come together in freedom and conviviality, where authenticity is the watchword and the starting point for unique moments. In an exceptional setting, at the foot of Mont-Blanc, the spirit of La Folie Douce Hotels sets the pace for all your days, evenings and nights.
To enter the evening as if into a dance, there are the strolls. Here, the show isn't just on the set, it's alive. Broadway-style strolls between the tables, aerial shows and live music punctuate the end of each day.
Gatsby the Magnificent ambience at the Janssen Cocktail Club. With its signature cocktails and elegant decor, this is where the best winter evenings begin!
CULTURE
Centenary of the first Olympic Games (1924-2024) The Maison de la Mémoire et du Patrimoine is presenting a new exhibition on the theme of "Chamonix 1924: The Invention of the Winter Olympics". As part of the centenary of the first Winter Olympics, this exhibition offers an in-depth look at the organization and staging of this event. Discover how Chamonix-Mont-Blanc played a part in the invention of the Olympic Winter Games!
A highlight not to be missed in the centenary year of the first Winter Olympics is the exhibition at the Maison de la mémoire et du patrimoine Jany Couttet, entitled "Chamonix 1924: l'invention des Jeux Olympiques d'hiver" (Chamonix 1924: the invention of the Winter Olympics). Through a series of photographic and film archives, as well as objects from the era such as athletes' outfits, this exhibition offers a real plunge into history, and in this case, into this Olympic week. It runs until March 15, 2025.
Lunch on the slopes
La Bergerie de Planpraz is Located on the Brévent ski area (2000m), this is a pleasure for the eyes and for the taste buds, and we're happy to give it a 10/10 rating. The fully renovated premises offer a culinary experience and impeccable service that are all too rare at altitude.
The interior of this beautiful wooden chalet has been completely renovated by Maison des Drus to create a warm and friendly atmosphere.
The two communicating rooms around the wood-burning fireplace create a lovely atmosphere. The terrace has also been redesigned for added comfort.
In terms of cuisine, you'll find a top-of-the-range brasserie with a Savoy and Italian flavour. You'll enjoy wood-fired cooking based on local produce.
The varied menu offers something for everyone: meat, fish, vegetarian dishes and tasty pastries.
Your lunch will take on a whole new dimension in front of the Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc. The restaurant combines local flavors with traditional French cuisine.
La Bergerie is easily accessible by gondola (10-minute ascent). The descent, with its view of Chamonix, will be an excellent souvenir for your group.
