Maison de la Memoire et du Patrimoine, Chamonix- Centre
This museum houses exhibits of Chamonix's past.
Mer de Glace glacier hike
Full-day glacier hike on the Mer de Glace 'Sea of Ice' with experienced guide
Experience one of the best known glaciers in the Alps, safe in the hands of an experienced local guide.
The Mer de Glace or 'Sea of Ice' is one of the most well-known glaciers in the Alps.
Its source begins at around 3,700m altitude in the Midi basin, and flows down in the direction of Chamonix to around 1,500m. Equipped with crampons, a harness, and ice axes, your guide will lead you to one of the most beautiful phenomena on earth. Marvel at the sea of ice, see giant crevasses, and even have a go at ice climbing.
Programme
- meet in front of the Montenvers train station in Chamonix. Train rides to Montenvers at 1,930m (30min)
- follow the walking path to the equipped section (ladders, cables and chains) and descend onto the glacier (30 min to one hour). Initially, the glacier is covered with scree and stones and a short walk will take you onto the ice. Crampon up and take the direction of the "Moulins" where a canyon has been eroded by the torrent, which disappears into the heart of the glacier (40 min)
- try out some ice climbing or continue in the direction of the junction with the Leschaux glacier. The glacier is quite chaotic here, and it's quite understandable why the glacier got its name. A bit of ice climbing for approximately one hour, before returning to Montenvers.
The whole adventure takes about five to six hours of walking for the longer trek, or about four hours when stopping off at "Les Moulins". The programme can be modified to adapt to the glacier conditions.
What to see
Sights in Chamonix
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Alpine Museum
The museum is currently closed for renovations
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Municipal library
The main central library for Chamonix which houses the occasional exhibition and lectures.
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Espace Tairraz Crystal Museum
Discover the minerals from the Mont Blanc Valley, famous throughout the world, and learn more about the art of mountaineering.
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Mer de Glace and Montenvers cog railway
No trip to Chamonix should be complete without a visit to the legendary Mer de Glace, the longest and arguably the most impressive glacier in the Chamonix valley. It is also the largest glacier in France.
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La Flégère, Chamonix - Le Praz
In summer the cable car at Flégère and the Index chairlift operate, taking you up to an altitude of 1,894m and then on to 2,396m at the top of the Index.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Chamonix
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La Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Situated in La Folie Douce Hotel, enjoy a delicious meal after a morning on the slopes with family or friends.
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L'Adret de la Flégère Restaurant
Their restaurant located in the Flégère ski area has been completely renovated for this winter.
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The Dainty Pizza Restaurant
Great quality ingredients lovingly prepared.
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Pointe Isabelle Bar and Bistro Restaurant
This tastefully refurbished restaurant and bar are right in the heart of Chamonix on the popular Avenue Michel Croz, close to the train station.
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Big Mountain Basecamp Restaurant & Bar
Whether you’re hungry or thirsty after a day on the mountain, Big Mountain Bar has you sorted. Settle into the relaxed bar area or soak up the sunshine from the terrace.
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Bighorn Bistro Restaurant
Bighorn Bistro in Chamonix Sud is known for its homemade American-style comfort food, from stacked burgers to freshly baked desserts. You can pair your meal with a craft beer or one of their creative cocktails. With friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a favourite with both locals and visitors, offering generous portions, warm hospitality, and a menu that consistently delivers hearty, satisfying flavours after a day on the mountain or during a relaxed evening out.
What to do
Things To Do in Chamonix
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5-Day Mont Blanc Training Course & Ascent
This two to three training course is followed by a three-day ascent and is for people with a high level of fitness. An unforgettable experience, to reach the summit will test the skills you have learnt along the way.
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Chamonix Holiday Planning & Travel Scout - Teresa Kaufman
Your holiday time in the Chamonix valley is valuable. Every day counts. Every moment should be a special one.
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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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Cinema VOX
Chamonix's own Cinema VOX is situated right in the centre of town, slightly tucked back on the Place Balmat (main square in the centre). There are three recently refurbished screens equipped with digital 3D projectors show the latest French and International films, as well as a number of premieres and specialist mountain-sports films.
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Tandem Paragliding
This company's sole activity is tandem paragliding, so they are 100 % focused on you and your flight. Their fully qualified pilots have vast experience and have done 1,000s of flight in the Chamonix Valley.
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Teresa Kaufman Outdoor Photography Classes
'The best photo class you will ever take', is Teresa's bold strapline for her unique photo walk classes, which take place in the incredible outdoors of the Chamonix Valley and offer an opportunity to photograph the major mountains and viewpoints.
