Les Houches is one of the largest towns in the Chamonix Valley, spreading over 8km from Vaudagne and the Col de Voza at one end, towards the bottom of the Taconnaz glacier and the Merlet Animal park at the other.
Les Houches
A large town at the bottom end of the Chamonix Valley about 6km from Chamonix
Les Houches is one of the largest towns in the Chamonix Valley and just 6km from the centre of Chamonix. Sitting at 1,000 metres, it offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Dome de Gouter from the top of its ski lifts. The town is popular with families and those looking for a more relaxed Chamonix holiday, with good amenities, restaurants and bars, as well as some of the valley’s few ski in/ski out chalets and eco-friendly accommodation.
The skiing here is perfect for all abilities, with gentle slopes for beginners as well as challenging runs like the Kandahar, used in international competitions. Les Houches also marks the start or end of the Tour du Mont Blanc for many walkers. The town is made up of charming hamlets: Chef Lieu is the centre with the tourist office, ice rink and mountain museum, Vaudagne is a favourite with cyclists and home to a husky dog centre, and Coupeau sits across the valley with the Merlet Animal Park, adventure park and the statue of Christ Roi.
Servoz
Further down the valley is the small village of Servoz - the gateway into the Chamonix Valley. This traditional Alpine village, formerly a farmer settlement, has a scattered collection of accommodation options.
With fantastic views back up the valley towards Mont Blanc, Servoz is a pretty and quiet village offering potentially cheaper accommodation options. Just be aware that if you've come specifically to ski in Chamonix, it's a 15-minute drive or you'll need to take the bus or train from Servoz to reach the main slopes of Les Houches or Chamonix.
| 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 |
Events in Les Houches
Events in Les Houches
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Farmer's market Les Houches
Local produce sold at this weekly market - fresh food direct from farm to table
Come and discover the produce of this local farm in Les Houches.
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Kandahar Alpine Skiing World Cup
Alpine Skiing World Cup in Les Houches
The Kandahar World Cup Ski Championships takes place in Les Houches.
Sights & Attractions in Les Houches
Sights in Les Houches
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Les Houches summer lifts
Gondola access to VTT and hiking trails and the Tour du Mont Blanc route
Les Houches sits at the bottom end of the Chamonix Valley and is a popular place for hikers, mountaineers and mountain bikers in the summer months.
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Merlet wildlife park
Chamonix nature and animal park with marmots, chamois and bouquetins
Parc de Merlet is a great place to spot some local animals in their natural environment. A nature reserve, rather than a zoo, the park is perched on a large plateau high above Les Houches.
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Montagnard museum
Musée Montagnard et Rural, showing old mountain lifestyles with temporary exhibitions
Situated in a house dating back to the 1750's, this museum showcases mountain lifestyles from the reconstruction of three pieces of traditional housing and objects from everyday life.
Dining in Les Houches
Restaurants in Les Houches
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Rocky Pop Restaurant
Burger bar, pizza joint and French Savoyard all rolled into one relaxed and fun environment
The Rocky Pop Restaurant in Les Houches, part of the vibrant Rocky Pop Hotel opened in December 2016, reflects the brand’s playful ethos of “joy and togetherness.” The food offering matches the lively atmosphere, with a fun, diverse menu designed to please all ages and tastes. Expect crowd-pleasing dishes, colourful presentations, and relaxed dining that encourages sharing and socialising. It’s a welcoming spot where families, groups, and friends can enjoy tasty, unfussy meals in a cheerful setting.
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Kitsch Inn Bar & Restaurant
Restaurant and bar right at the foot of the pistes, near the Bellevue lift in Les Houches
Quirkily decorated, as the name suggests, this restaurant has different rooms for different moods. Grab a quick coffee and a snack at the breakfast bar, enjoy a casual meal in the retro formica kitchen area, or sit and take your time over dinner at one of the large tables in the dining room. They also have a large sunny terrace where they serve up a nice BBQ in the summer and a kids play area.
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Le Hors Pistes Restaurant
A busy mountain restaurant with regular live music, enjoy lunch in the sun on the slopes
Brilliantly located in the heart of the Les Houches Prarion ski area.
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La Ferme des Agapes
Alpine atmosphere with good value Savoyard cuisine, located near the Bellevue lift
This restaurant is located right in front of the Bellevue cable car in Les Houches.
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Le Basilic Restaurant
Traditional Savoyard cuisine near the Bellevue lift with a cosy, warm interior
Just across the road from the Bellevue lift in Les Houches, this is a perfect spot to recharge your batteries after a day on the mountain, or pop in for lunch.
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Gandhi Restaurant
Indian specialities to eat in or take away, open for lunch and dinner
This restaurant serves tasty, good value Indian cuisine for lunch, dinner and to takeaway.
Nightlife in Les Houches
There are a small number of bars and bars within hotels in Les Houches. Since it's quite a spread out village, they are a little thin on the ground. Try the Délice, the Kitsch Inn or Le Solerey.
Bars & Clubs in Les Houches
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Rocky Pop Bar
Funky, fun and unique bar within hotel on the outskirts of Les Houches
Rocky Pop in Les Houches is a vibrant, family-friendly destination that brings fun, flavour, and energy to the heart of the Alps. Combining relaxed casual dining with a lively, upbeat atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a day on the slopes or simply enjoy a laid-back meal with friends and family. The menu features crowd-pleasing dishes, playful touches, and generous portions, creating a welcoming experience for guests of all ages throughout the year.
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Kitsch Inn Bar & Restaurant
Restaurant and bar right at the foot of the pistes, near the Bellevue lift in Les Houches
Quirkily decorated, as the name suggests, this restaurant has different rooms for different moods. Grab a quick coffee and a snack at the breakfast bar, enjoy a casual meal in the retro formica kitchen area, or sit and take your time over dinner at one of the large tables in the dining room. They also have a large sunny terrace where they serve up a nice BBQ in the summer and a kids play area.
Things to do in Les Houches
Les Houches is a popular place to ski for families thanks to its sunny, lower altitude slopes that have a base of pastures instead of rocky outcrops like some of the other ski areas in the valley. Take a look at our Les Houches Ski Area Guide for more information. It's a good place for beginner skiers too, as the slopes tend to be a little wider and less steep. It also draws people to the tree runs on bad weather ski days.
In summer there are lots of hiking and mountain bike trails that criss-cross the area. You can drop over the top of the Col de Vosa into St Gervais and take the Tramway du Mont Blanc or the regular train back.
Things To Do in Les Houches
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Merlet wildlife park
Chamonix nature and animal park with marmots, chamois and bouquetins
Parc de Merlet is a great place to spot some local animals in their natural environment. A nature reserve, rather than a zoo, the park is perched on a large plateau high above Les Houches.
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Cinebus cinema
Cinema in the centre of Les Houches
Les Houches cinema is located in the village centre just next to the Mairie. It has just one screen and the space can also be used for conferences and presentations.
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Horse riding centre
Discover the mountain on horse back or take lessons in their arena
This horse riding centre is situated in just up the hill from the train station in Les Houches. The centre is open all year round and has both an indoor and outdoor arena.
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Indoor climbing wall
Indoor climbing hall for learning, training & improving techniques
The Chamonix valley is home to one of the largest indoor climbing walls in France. The Mont Blanc Escalade is located in Les Houches and is open all year.
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Montagnard museum
Musée Montagnard et Rural, showing old mountain lifestyles with temporary exhibitions
Situated in a house dating back to the 1750's, this museum showcases mountain lifestyles from the reconstruction of three pieces of traditional housing and objects from everyday life.
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Ski joering
Horse-driven back-country skiing experience, fun for the whole family
This is the original form of back-country sking and is horse drawn, plus great fun!
Watersports in Les Houches
Watersports in Les Houches
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Hydrospeed
Hydrospeed experience with a guide in Chamonix
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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Rafting
Rafting and hydrospeeding specialists in Chamonix
Enjoy an exciting introduction to white water sports this summer with Mickaël and the passionate team. Whether you are looking for adrenaline or a fun outdoor experience with friends or family, several activities are available on some of the most beautiful rivers in the region.
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White water rafting
Half-day white water rafting excursions around Chamonix
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!
Chalets in Les Houches
Whether you're looking for self-catered or catered chalets, Les Houches has got a broad selection available, some tucked away in far-flung corners for ultimate peace and tranquility, with others nearer the centre of this large village.
Chalets in Les Houches
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Le Bossey Chalet
4 bedroom chalet in Les Houches. Sleeps 9
Tucked away in a quiet part of the Chamonix Valley, this peaceful chalet is surrounded by open space, offering a real sense of tranquillity and connection to nature. There's plenty of room to relax outdoors, along with ample free parking and a covered garage for added convenience.
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Grand Cru Chalet
5 bedroom Chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 11
Chalet Grand Cru is a ten person chalet located in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc; this great value property features incredible views of Mont-Blanc and is only a few minutes walk from the shops, bars and restaurants in the centre of the town.
Grand Cru Chalet
12 Dec 2026, 7 Nights, 1-10 people, Self-cateredFrom €9,015Visit websiteSave an extra 10%. Book direct + Coupon code: STW10
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Deutz Chalet
4 bedroom Chalet in Chamonix - Les Pelerins. Sleeps 10
Modern and cosy four bedroom chalet a short walk from the centre of Chamonix.
Deutz Chalet
31 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-12 people, Self-cateredFrom€7,300€6,200 -
Altura Chalet
5 bedroom chalet in Les Houches. Sleeps 10
This chalet is ideally located close to Chamonix in a quiet setting, with beautiful mountain views. Just a ten-minute drive from the nearest ski lift, it’s perfect for families or groups of friends.
Altura Chalet
3 Apr 2027, 7 Nights, 1-10 people, Self-cateredFrom €3,507 -
Simandou Seasonal Chalet
5 bedroom chalet near Les Houches. Sleeps 12
Nestled in the very quiet and unspoilt area of Vaudagne, this magnificent family chalet with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms combines alpine charm with high-quality amenities and offers an ideal living environment, just a few minutes from the ski slopes of Les Houches and the centre of Chamonix.
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La Chaumière Chalet
3 bedroom chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 11
You will feel like you’re holidaying in your second home when you book this chalet located right next door to the hotel.
Holiday Rentals in Les Houches
Les Houches offers a range of apartments for summer and winter, from 4-star to more basic accommodation. Take a look at our selection by clicking the link below.
Holiday Rentals in Les Houches
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Standard Le Genepy Apartments, Chamonix
1 bedroom apartments in Chamonix. Sleeps 4
Smart, modern apartments situated in a historic 1903 building which has been lovingly converted in the heart of Chamonix, close to all amenities and within walking distance to the Brevent cable car.
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Monski Chalet
4 bedroom Chalet in Les Houches. Sleeps 8
Lovely and modern four bedroom chalet in Les Houches close to Prarion
Monski Chalet
31 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-8 people, Self-cateredFrom€4,200€3,600 -
Conseil B Apartment
2 bedroom apartment in undefined. Sleeps 4
Chic 2BR apartment Village Center | Free Parking
Conseil B Apartment
31 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-4 people, Self-cateredFrom€924€616 -
La Riviere Residence - 1 Bedroom Apartment
Renovated 1 bedroom + cabin apartment in Chamonix. Sleeps 8.
La Riviere Residence is located in Chamonix Sud, just 300 metres from the Aiguille du Midi cable car and around a five-minute walk from central Chamonix. Its convenient location makes it a practical base for exploring the resort and surrounding ski area.
La Riviere Residence - 1 Bedroom Apartment
10 Apr 2027, 7 Nights, 1-8 people, Self-cateredFrom €755 -
Paccard Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Chamonix. Sleeps 4
Paccard is a stylish modern four person apartment on the main Chamonix-Mont-Blanc highstreet, with fantastic shops, bars and restaurants on your doorstep.
Paccard Apartment
28 Nov 2026, 7 Nights, 1-4 people, Self-cateredFrom €1,107Visit websiteSave an extra 10%. Book direct + Coupon code: STW10
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La Ginabelle Residence - 2 Bedroom Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Chamonix. Sleeps 6
Located at the heart of Chamonix, the “La Ginabelle” residence proposes spacious apartments with an excellent standard of facilities and services. Ideally located for easy access to the finest tourist sites: the little Montenvers train will take you to the “Mer de Glace” while the “Aiguille du Midi” cable car will carry you up to magnificent summits.
La Ginabelle Residence - 2 Bedroom Apartment
24 Apr 2027, 7 Nights, 1-6 people, Self-cateredFrom €799
Hotels in Les Houches
Choose from boutique-style chalet hotels, contemporary style interiors, or the more traditional Savoyard style.
Hotels in Les Houches
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La Ginabelle Premium Residence
Family-friendly apartments with spa facilities in the heart of Chamonix
La Ginabelle offers cosy, alpine-style apartments, just steps from shops, restaurants and mountain adventures.
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Pointe Isabelle Hotel
Good quality, modern accommodation in the centre of Chamonix
Ideally located, the hotel has 45 spacious, well appointed bedrooms with great views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges mountains.
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La Riviere Apartment Residence
Well-equipped self-catered apartments in the heart of Chamonix
Peaceful apartment residence just a short walk from the train station and cable car.
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Le Genepy Aparthotel
Central, modern apartments situated in lovingly converted historic building
In the heart of Chamonix, close to all amenities and within walking distance to the Brevent cable car with views of Mont-Blanc.
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La Folie Douce Hotel
Spectacular mountain escape with a lively spirit and family fun
This hotel offers stunning alpine views, a vibrant atmosphere, and thoughtful amenities for families. Enjoy spacious rooms, an outdoor heated pool, yoga, spa treatments, and activities for all ages right at the foot of the ski slopes.
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Faucigny Hotel
Smart, modern, boutique-style hotel in the town centre with spa facilities
Completely renovated in Scandinavian style, Le Faucigny is a charming small hotel in the town centre. Whether you're with family or friends or enjoying a romantic getaway, the hotel provides the ideal setting for a pleasant stay in the legendary Mont-Blanc valley.
How to get to Les Houches
Transfers for Chamonix
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Private Airport Transfers
Geneva Airport to Chamonix from €229 per vehicle one-way (weekend rate)
Enjoy a hassle-free journey to Chamonix with an experienced Alpine transfer company operating since 2012. Private door-to-door transfers come with professional drivers who know the mountain roads and flight monitoring to help manage delays. Choose between standard or VIP minibuses, with complimentary child seats available for families. Free onboard Wi-Fi and handy pick-up reminders are among the thoughtful extras that help make your journey easier.
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Private & Shared Airport Transfers
Easy transfers from Geneva Airport to Chamonix and nearby resorts
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.
Visit websiteSave an extra 5%. Use Alpine Fleet discount promocode: STWSKI
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Private Airport Transfers
Eco-friendly private transfers from Geneva to the Chamonix valley
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 Airport Transfers
Effortless and reliable ski transfers from Geneva Airport to resort
From the airport to the slopes, they handle the rest. Geneva's most trusted private ski transfers.
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Private & Shared Airport Transfers
Low-cost shared and private transfer shuttle service from Geneva Airport
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 Les Houches
Property for Sale in Les Houches
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Apartment for Sale | pure-mont-blanc-30
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 109m² apartment in Les Houches
Pure Mont Blanc is a brand-new development of 24 apartments, to the north-east of les Houches village centre, just over a 5-minute walk to the main square. Each apartment comes with an outdoor space, whether a balcony or terrace, plus parking, storage cellar and access to a communal bike store.
Apartment for Sale | pure-mont-blanc-30
€1,099,000 -
Apartment for Sale | cordee-de-bellevarde-B002
1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 43m² apartment in Les Houches
A brand-new development of 12 apartments just 250 metres from the Les Houches town square. The apartments will be finished off to the highest quality and will have large balconies or terraces to make the most of the wonderful mountain views.
Apartment for Sale | cordee-de-bellevarde-B002
€545,000 -
Chalet for Sale | ferme-des-sommets
5 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 461m² chalet in Les Houches
Completely rebuilt in 2020, Ferme des Sommets is a five-bedroom farmhouse perched on the Les Houches hillside that preserves the historic charm of the original 1700s property while providing a modern, high-quality finish.
Chalet for Sale | ferme-des-sommets
€4,800,000 -
Chalet for Sale | 87142160
5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 175.35m² chalet in Les Houches
Nestled in the peaceful residential neighbourhood of Les Chavants in Les Houches, this beautifully freshly renovated chalet offers an exceptional living environment just 15 minutes from Chamonix.
Chalet for Sale | 87142160
€2,200,000 -
Apartment for Sale, Les Houches | trabets-204
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 87.8m² apartment in Les Houches
A brand new development of 12 apartments right at the foot of the Kandahar piste, host of the World Cup downhill and slalom events in the Chamonix Valley.
Apartment for Sale, Les Houches | trabets-204
€875,000 -
Chalet for Sale | 86095191
7 bedroom chalet in Les houches
Located in the heart of Les Houches, just 100 meters from the Bellevue cable car, local shops (restaurants, bakery, etc.), and the nearest bus stop, this high-end chalet offers an ideal setting for mountain enthusiasts in all seasons.
Chalet for Sale | 86095191
€2,285,000































































