Discover and book the best of Chamonix with the local destination experts
Chamonix is a vibrant town known as both a world-class ski resort and a mountaineering destination. Situated in the Haute-Savoie region of France, it is bordered by Switzerland and Italy and dominated by the incredible Aiguilles de Chamonix mountain chain peaking at the top of Mont Blanc (4810m).
With these vast, jagged mountains towering over the town, the scenery here is arguably the most spectacular in the French Alps. The snow-capped peaks soar into the bright blue sky, ancient glaciers sweep down towards the valley floor and waterfalls cascade through pine-covered hillsides.
The natural beauty of this valley is the main draw for those who love the outdoors whether skiers, mountaineers, hikers or sightseers. There is a real international feel here, not just from tourists but from individuals and families who have decided to settle here from all over the world. Come and find out why!
Find out all about what is happening in the Chamonix valley and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.
See allLatest News & ReviewsChamonix hosts a wide range of sporting events throughout the year. The biggest ones include the Mont Blanc Marathon in June and the UTMB trail running race in August. In March, the Unlimited Festival brings ravers to the mountains while Musilac Mont Blanc takes place a month later. At the end of July, the Cosmo Jazz Festival hosts concerts all around the valley.
See allUpcoming EventsChamonix is known as Europe's capital of extreme sports. The resort is open and busy all year round, which makes Chamonix a fairly unique destination in the French Alps. Apart from the big draw of alpine sports, including skiing, snowboarding, climbing, mountain biking, cycling, mountaineering and hiking, the area has a number of more leisurely pursuits. Forested trails, adventure playgrounds for kids, markets and a number of spa facilities all await you here.
The main attraction that brings tourists to this picturesque town is Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe at 4810m. Visitors either come to reach the summit themselves, view it from the station at the top of the Aiguille du Midi cable car (3842m) or take it in from the valley floor. Another popular place to visit is the huge Mer de Glace glacier, accessed by the vintage Montenvers train. From the top, you can descend to an ice cave excavated into the glacier via a gondola and a series of walkways and steps.
There are lots of restaurants in Chamonix, most on the valley floor but also a good selection at altitude offering stunning views. As well as traditional French and Savoyard food, you'll find international cuisine on offer.
The Chamonix valley offers visitors a range of nightlife from live bands and boisterous après-ski parties and nightclubs, to more sedate jazz nights or the occasional music festival.
Chamonix has five main separate ski areas as well as an incredible amount of off-piste and ski touring terrain available. The resort's high altitude means that snow is assured to the end of April.
Whatever you choose to do on your holiday in Chamonix, you are sure to find a huge range of activities across the valley. From relaxing to full-on adrenaline, there is something for every ability and age here.
There is a vast selection of accommodation covering all budgets in the Chamonix valley. From renovated farmhouses and luxury chalets to central hotels and self-catered apartments.
Chamonix is situated in the French Alps, at the foot of the Mont Blanc and nestled up against the border of Italy and Switzerland. It takes a little over an hour to get here from the nearest airport, in Geneva.
