Argentière
A traditional village located at the foot of the famous Grands Montets ski area
Argentière is a picturesque village within the Chamonix Valley and is just a short 10-minute car journey from Chamonix town. This charming village has been less affected by wealthy tourists and ex-patriots from various countries who have chosen to make their living in the mountains. It therefore retains a lot of authentic French charm and has a beautiful unspoilt high street with patisseries, boulangeries and wine bars.
Situated 8km further up the valley from Chamonix town and below the infamous Aiguille Verte and Drus, lies the picturesque village of Argentière.
While Chamonix itself has a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere, Argentière retains more of an Alpine village charm: the chalets and hotels here tend to be traditionally Savoyard in style and with more space and larger gardens than those in Chamonix town.
Who should stay in Argentière?
The main attraction of staying in Argentière is its proximity to the Grands Montets ski area which is home to some of the most exciting skiing in the world – both on and off piste.
Argentière may be a mountain lovers’ paradise with a laidback feel, but it still offers a good handful of shops, nice restaurants and après ski bars with live music.
Location | Distance from Chamonix (km) | Best for |
Vallorcine | 15 | Traditional alpine charm |
Le Tour | 11.5 | Proximity to Le Tour ski area |
Argentière | 9 | Proximity to Grands Montets ski area |
Le Lavancher | 6 | Seclusion |
Les Tines | 4.5 | Quiet hamlet vibe |
Les Praz/Les Bois | 2.5 to 3 | Proximity to Brevent-Flegère ski area |
Chamonix | 0 | Being in the heart of things |
Cham Sud | 0.75 | Central location |
Les Bossons | 3.5 | Easy access to Cham via cycle path |
Les Houches | 8.3 | Proximity to Les Houches ski area |
Servoz | 16 | Easy access to Evasion resorts |
Jump to
- Ski Hire in Argentiere
- Ski School in Argentiere
- Sights & Attractions in Argentiere
- Dining in Argentiere
- Events in Argentiere
- Things to do in Argentiere
- Cycling in Argentiere
- Hiking in Argentiere
- Watersports in Argentiere
- Families in Argentiere
- Nightlife in Argentiere
- Chalets in Argentiere
- Holidays Rentals in Argentiere
- Hotels in Argentiere
- Campsites in Argentiere
- How to get to Argentiere
- Property For Sale in Argentiere
Ski Hire in Argentiere
Ski Hire in Argentiere
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Hurycana Sports
Ski & Snowboard hire just before the Grand Montets ski area. Save time and money by booking online with Intersport. Have your equipment ready to pick up as soon as you arrive and hit the slopes straight away!
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Sanglard Sports
This rental shop in Argentiere is situated right at the foot of the Grands Montets cable car - so there's a minimum of carrying equipment and a maximum amount of convenience - just grab your skis or snowboard and go! Frederic and his team are on hand to assist you in the store.
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Sportech
You can’t wait for your next ski trip? Everything is already booked except your ski equipment? Don’t worry, they’ll help you find the perfect equipment to fully enjoy your ski holiday in Argentière!
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Grands Montets Sports
Want to rent skis or snowboards in Chamonix? Just visit the Skiset Grands Montets Sports store!
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Zag Pro
The Zag Pro shop has the whole ski range available for test, allowing you to try the new line of Zag hand-finished ski’s.
Ski School in Argentiere
Ski School Lessons in Argentiere
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Private ski lessons
Anne Bosvieux is a French qualified, English speaking ski instructor that gives private ski lessons in Chamonix, Argentière and Les Houches.
Sights & Attractions in Argentiere
Sights in Argentiere
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Aiguille Rouge Nature Reserve
The Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve was created in 1974 and is a bio-diverse area of around 16,000 hectares with spectacular views of the Col des Montets. There is an information centre where you can find out about the animals and plants of the area and buy a drink or snack.
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Les Grands Montets, Chamonix - Argentière
The Plan Joran télécabine takes you up to Grands Montets at an altitude of 1,972 metres.
Dining in Argentiere
Argentière is full of lots of brightly coloured buildings which create a fun, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. There are plenty of great places to stay as well as delicious restaurants to dine in. As far as restaurants go, The Office, which is also a popular après-ski venue for Grand Montets skiers, does mouth-watering, great value pub food.
Restaurants in Argentiere
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Plan Joran Restaurant and Café
You will find a takeaway bar and a self-service restaurant in this magnificent wooden chalet at the bottom of the Tabé chairlift.
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La Table de Plan Joran Restaurant
Have a bite to eat in this lovely restaurant that can only be accessed on skis.
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Argentero Restaurant
Right on the edge of the Lognan piste in Grands Montets, this restaurant with it's a large sunny terrace and chic interior is the perfect spot for lunch or après drinks during a day on the mountain.
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La Cremerie du Glacier Restaurant
Open in summer and winter, this charming restaurant serves all the traditional Savoyard dishes including farçon, fondues, omelettes, gratins and croutes.
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The Office Restaurant
Anybody who is serious about their skiing (or après-skiing!) has partied in the bar after tackling the world famous Grands Montets. During the summer this is a great place to head for lunch which can be taken on the outdoor terrace
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Le Stone Bar and Restaurant
This restaurant serves salads, starters, pastas and pizzas, as well as steak and veal dishes.
Events in Argentiere
In August the Fête des Guides often starts off here which is a celebration of all the professional mountaineers and tour guides who work hard throughout the year to ensure visitors can enjoy the mountains in safety. The festival includes a number of exhibitions, concerts, lectures and a fireworks display.
Events in Chamonix
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Farmer's market Les Houches
Come and discover the produce of this local farm in Les Houches.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Chamonix, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Trail des Aiguilles Rouges (TAR)
This fantastic trail running race in the Chamonix valley covers a distance of 54km (4,000m altitude gain) and offers runners some of the most iconic and fantastic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding valley.
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Halloween in Chamonix
There will be a number of parties and events happening this Halloween at some of the best venues in town and neighbouring villages.
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Valentine's Day in Chamonix
If you're looking for a special way of celebrating Valentine's with a loved one then Chamonix is a great choice.
Things to do in Argentiere
The village is the home of the famous Grands Montets ski area which is the largest of the pisted skiing areas in the valley. GM, as it is known locally, has a reputation for offering some of the most difficult pisted runs in Europe as well as some of the best off-piste. However, there is no need for beginners to be put off, there are still long wide runs for them to tackle. Wrap up warm and be prepared, it is particularly chilly in this ski area until well into March and April.
Things To Do in Argentiere
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Helicopter Flights
Take to the skies with Evolution 2. The most exciting and beautiful way to see the breathtaking views - you are guaranteed to leave with memories of a lifetime!
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Aiguille Rouge Nature Reserve
The Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve was created in 1974 and is a bio-diverse area of around 16,000 hectares with spectacular views of the Col des Montets. There is an information centre where you can find out about the animals and plants of the area and buy a drink or snack.
Cycling in Argentiere
Cycling Routes in Chamonix
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Col des Montets from Chamonix via Argentière
This is a fairly short, easy run that can be done in about an hour. It’s about 25km there and back, the climb averaging just 3% or so.
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Cycling routes accessible from Chamonix
Depending how keen you are there are many classic cols within a few hour’s drive. At the other side of Megeve, Flumet is a good start point for the Col de Aravis or the Col des Saises. Further on is Beaufort for Cormet de Roseland (but this would make for a long day).
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Chamonix to Barrage d'Emosson, via Col des Montets
This ride is 62km there and back with a demanding climb from Finhaut up to the top of the Emosson dam (averaging 8.5% with a couple of sections over 10%).
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Chamonix to Col de la Forclaz
This ride is about 60km there and back with a less demanding climb than Emosson from Le Chatelard up to Col de Forclaz (average gradient 5.8% and never steeper than 8%).
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Passy to Plaine Joux
This short but challenging ride can be done in half a day, including getting from Chamonix to the start point and back. It is a 15km climb with 855m of ascent that passes by farmhouses and old chalets, through a couple of quiet little villages and amongst dense pine forest to emerge on a sunny plateau with stunning views of the valley below.
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Martingy via Col des Montets and Col de la Forclaz
This is an 80km ride there and back with a long climb back from Martigny to Col de Forclaz.
Hiking in Argentiere
Walking Routes in Chamonix
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Aiguillette d'Argentière
Leaving the town of Argentiere, this walk takes you through the south facing woods to the popular climbing crag of Aiguillette d'Argentiere
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Argentière glacier hike
A lift-accessed high altitude hike above 2,000m, with some of Chamonix's most picturesque views of the valley.
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Aiguillette des Posettes, Le Tour
This walk situated at the top of the valley offers incomparable views of the entire Mont-Blanc range, as well as the Le Tour and Argentière glaciers.
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Refuge Albert Premier, Le Tour
There are two ways to approach this beautifully renovated refuge. The steep path that skirts its way alongside the Le Tour Glacier, or via the chairlift to the top of the Le Tour ski area and making a long mellow traverse.
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Haute Route - Chamonix to Zermatt
The Haute Route, (also known as The High Route or Mountaineers' Route) is the route undertaken on foot or by ski touring between Chamonix, France, and Zermatt, Switzerland.
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Petit Balcon Nord, Le Tour to Chamonix
This hike is one of the classic Chamonix “balcon” hikes, a group of trails that pass along either side of the valley taking in some of the best views and most beautiful places along the way.
Watersports in Argentiere
Watersports in Chamonix
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White Water Rafting
Experience the perfect way to see areas of the valley that are otherwise inaccessible with Evolution 2. Are you looking for the ride of your life? Because these beautiful alpine rivers will turn into exhilarating playgrounds for fun!
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Canyoning
An exhillerating mountain water experience travelling down rivers or streams within a canyon by a variety of means including walking, scrambling, climbing, abseiling and swimming.
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Yellow Rafting
Enjoy rafting, hrdrospeeding and more in the summer time with Yellow rafting.
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Hydrospeed
Experience the most aquatic all out activities with Evolution 2. Are you looking for the ride of your life? Because these beautiful alpine rivers will turn into exhilarating playgrounds for fun!
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Challenging Canyoning
An exhillerating mountain water experience travelling down rivers or streams within a canyon by a variety of means including walking, scrambling, climbing, abseiling and swimming.
Families in Argentiere
Nightlife in Argentiere
Argentière has its own small collection of bars, popular with locals, seasonaires and tourists alike. It's not as busy or bustling as Chamonix, but don't let that fool you into thinking you'll be having a quiet night as some of the bars get pretty rowdy for après-ski!
In summer it's a quieter affair with a more relaxed vibe. Lots of hikers and cyclists stop off here on their way back down to the centre of Chamonix.
Bars & Clubs in Argentiere
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The Office Bar
Anybody who is serious about their skiing (or après-skiing!) has partied in this bar after tackling the world famous Grands Montets.
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Fubar
The wildest après-ski in town at the foot of the Grands Montets in Argentière village.
Chalets in Argentiere
There are a good selection of luxury chalets in Argentière, and you have the added benefit of more space around you as opposed to the centre of Chamonix. Most of them offer flexible catering options, but it's best to enquire when you've chosen one that suits you.
Chalets in Argentiere
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Les Praz Chalet
This luxurious 280m² chalet, set on 1,740m² of land, is located in the sought-after village of Les Praz, just two kilometres from the centre of Chamonix. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, southern exposure, and stunning views of Mont Blanc and the Drus.
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Aïkoa Chalet
A luxury ecolodge mountain chalet situated in the sought-after Les Frasserands hamlet in the Chamonix Valley. With a focus on design, comfort and sustainability, this chalet is the perfect base for all your mountain adventures.
Price: €17,500
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Guapa Chalet
Nestled in the peaceful village of Montroc, Guapa is a beautiful mountain chalet offering incredible views and tranquillity – a perfect escape in Chamonix! Ideally located for access to the ski lifts of Le Tour and Les Grands Montets, it’s a brilliant base for a family or group of friends. In summer, numerous hiking trails start right from the door, including routes to the Aiguilles Rouges, Vallorcine and the Petits Balcons.
Price: €3,873
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Scandinave Chalet
Chalet Scandinave, sleeping up to six adults and three children, is ideally located near the Flégère ski lift and Chamonix’s golf course. In good snow conditions, you can ski all the way back to the chalet!
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Black Squirrel Chalet
Chalet Black Squirrel is a luxury retreat blending contemporary elegance with the cosy charm of an exclusive alpine escape. Nestled in the tranquil Les Bois area, it’s thoughtfully designed to provide everything you need for an unforgettable getaway.
Price: €10,056
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Maison Des Praz Chalet
A fantastic four-bedroom modern ski chalet sleeping 10 people next to La Flegère ski lift. Maison des Praz is a great place to explore Chamonix valley in summer or winter.
Price: €982
Holidays Rentals in Argentiere
A broad selection of apartments are available in Argentière, from luxurious buildings to more traditional Savoyard style accommodation. Available in the summer and winter months, you're bound to find one that suits your style and budget.
Holiday Rentals in Argentiere
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Scandinave Chalet
Chalet Scandinave, sleeping up to six adults and three children, is ideally located near the Flégère ski lift and Chamonix’s golf course. In good snow conditions, you can ski all the way back to the chalet!
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Prestige Residence Isatis 2 Room 4/5 Pers. Apartment, Chamonix
Holiday rentals in Chamonix
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Aïkoa Chalet
A luxury ecolodge mountain chalet situated in the sought-after Les Frasserands hamlet in the Chamonix Valley. With a focus on design, comfort and sustainability, this chalet is the perfect base for all your mountain adventures.
Price: €17,500
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Scierie Chalet
Chalet Scierie is a beautifully renovated and recently upgraded chalet in the hamlet of Les Tines, a quiet spot ideally located for skiing in both Chamonix and Argentière. It’s just a few minutes’ drive from the Flegère lift or five minutes from Les Grands Montets. Set next to a charming chapel, with the gentle sound of a river running past and fabulous views of Mont Blanc, this pretty chalet offers a truly idyllic mountain setting.
Price: €3,510
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Green Apartment
A lovely 3 bedroom apartment in a super location for both Summer and Winter stays.
Price: €1,800
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Prestige Residence Isatis 1-bedroom 4 Person Apartment, Chamonix
Holiday rentals in Chamonix
Hotels in Argentiere
Hotels in Argentiere
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La Couronne Hotel
This is one of the oldest hotels in the valley dating back to around 1865 when the pioneers of mountaineering took their first steps in the valley. Whist fully renovated and modernised, it still exudes the charm of those days gone by.
Price: €668
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Les Grands Montets Hotel
This warm and welcoming chalet-style hotel exudes homeliness as soon as you pass through the front door. Authentic wooden beams and warm colours combined with a range of modern amenities, help to ensure your stay in this 'hotel de charme' is a memorable one.
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Excelsior Hotel
Nestled between nature and peaks, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc range.
Price: €939
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Le Castel Hotel
Chalet Hôtel Le Castel offers a magical stay just steps from the Brévent-Flégère ski lifts. Enjoy cosy, air-conditioned rooms, panoramic mountain views, and a delicious Continental buffet breakfast served in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Price: €1,152
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Le Jeu de Paume Hotel
Tucked away in the tranquil village of Le Lavancher, Le Jeu de Paume offers four-star comfort, authentic chalet charm and breathtaking views of the Chamonix peaks.
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Le Dahu Hotel
Situated in Argentiere, this hotel is just over the road from Les Grands Montets ski area and Le Tour just a short bus ride up the valley.
Price: €610
Campsites in Argentiere
How to get to Argentiere
Argentière is well connected to all the other villages in the valley as well as the other ski areas in and around Chamonix. There are local bus and train services from both the main street and Grands Montets to St Gervais at one end of the valley and Vallorcine at the other. Argentière is also linked by road to Switzerland via the pass over the Col des Montets as well as by rail. There is access from the local train station all the way through to Martigny where you can catch lifts up to the Verbier Ski station which is perfect if you have a Mont Blanc unlimited pass!
Transfers for Chamonix
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Private airport transfers
From the airport to the slopes, they handle the rest. Geneva's most trusted private ski transfers.
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Mont Blanc Transfers
This company provides private transfers in fully electric vehicles around the Chamonix valley, operating from airports and train stations to the ski resorts.
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Private and shared airport transfers
This company offers private and shared transfers from Geneva Airport to Chamonix, nearby areas, and resorts across the Alps. With great value fares on all journeys, it’s an easy way to save money.
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Private airport transfers
The Loyal Transfers team has been organising airport transfers to ski resorts around France since 2012. Their aim has always been to make independent travel to ski resorts cheaper and easier for everyone.
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Private and shared airport transfers
This company offers two great value shuttle services as well as a private service from Geneva and Lyon Airports to the Chamonix Valley. Established and efficient - you can rely on them.
Property For Sale in Argentiere
Property for Sale in Argentiere
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Apartment for Sale
Spacious modern four-room apartment with three bedrooms, mountain views, and high-end amenities.
Price: €1,175,000
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Chalet for Sale, Argentière
The Globe is an exclusive newly built development of six properties right in the heart of Argentière, with fantastic views and walking distance from the village center, public transport and the infamous Grands Montets ski lifts.
Price: €1,350,000
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Apartment for Sale
Located in an old hotel that's being renovated, this beautiful apartment of 163m2 is located on the ground floor in sub-plex.
Price: €1,990,000
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Chalet for Sale, Argentière
Maison Herzog is a striking townhouse over 3 floors, combining Alpine charm with modern luxury, within walking distance of the infamous Grands Montets ski lifts and offering excellent rental return.
Price: €1,250,000
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Chalet for Sale
Chalet located in a quiet and pleasant residential area in Argentiere.
Price: €1,149,000
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Apartment for Sale, Argentiere
The Globe is a newly-built residence of 6 apartments in the centre of Argentière, easily walkable to all amenities, bus/train and the Grands Montets ski area.
Price: €1,250,000