Peak season in Chamonix and the town becomes the trail running capital of the world.
August in Chamonix: What's on and weather
Chamonix's biggest summer event, the UTMB, and much more
August is one of the busiest months in Chamonix, with many events on the calendar to suit visitors of every age and ability, but of course one of the biggest talking points in the Chamonix summer schedule is the famous trail running race - Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc. Just be sure you've booked your accommodation!
Easily one of the best known ultramarathons in the world, now boasting seven events in its calendar, this week long trail running festival and its participants, supporters and spectators literally overrun the town. You will soon find you are never far from a trail runner, a banging cowbell or someone shouting 'allez allez allez'.
To entertain the masses there are a whole host of events in Chamonix and they don't all include a gruelling running race.
Read on for a look at what we like to do in resort throughout August.
What's the weather like in Chamonix in August?
Whilst average August temperatures sit at a low of 11°C and a high of 22°C, we have seen temperatures can really vary in the mountains in summer with occasional storms that roll in and heatwaves that bring a searing heat. Plus the UTMB week always seems to attract some crazy weather of some sort to additionally challenge the runners.
Things to do in Chamonix
Paragliding, or parapenting as the French say, is a good way to escape the packed pavements and busy mountain trails and to head up, literally, into the sky with a tandem flight. There are lots of companies who offer the service and it's a good opportunity to take a bird's eye view of the town and surrounding valley from the peace and tranquility of the skies above it. For a 20-minute flight, take off is usually from the Brévent cable car mid-station.
Things To Do in Chamonix
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Tandem paragliding
Enjoy the trip of a lifetime with these qualified tandem paragliding specialists - All year round
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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Cinema VOX
English films and digital 3D equipped
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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Vallée Blanche private guide
Full day private guided tour of the legendary off-piste Vallée Blanche
At the summit of the Aiguille du Midi you will find the Vallée Blanche!Â
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Tandem Paragliding
Soar above the Alps: tandem paragliding adventures for every age and skill level
Discover the unforgettable sensation of flying high above the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley on a tandem paragliding adventure. Whether it’s your first time in the air or you’re craving an adrenaline-fuelled experience, each flight is designed to showcase the Alps from their most spectacular angle.
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Snowshoe guided walks
Half day and full day snowshoe walks in Vallorcine
Explore the fantastic natural scenery around Vallorcine, Le Tour and Montroc by going off the beaten track on snowshoes!
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Ski Mont Blanc
2 day excursion to ski Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc on skis is the ultimate way to reach the highest peak in western Europe. This is an epic end of ski-season challenge!
August events in Chamonix
Chamonix hosts the world-famous Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc each summer, attracting thousands of elite and amateur runners for endurance races around the Mont Blanc massif. The resort also celebrates its mountaineering heritage during the Fête des Guides, featuring parades, markets, live music and family-friendly events honouring the valley’s long-standing guiding tradition.
Events in Chamonix
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Festival Les Petits Asticots
Children's festival with workshops and entertainment
For over 20 years this week long autumn festival has been encouraging children to be imaginative and creative, whilst having lots of fun.
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Photography workshop - "L'Art du Regard"
Discover light, composition, and creativity on a relaxed half-day photography workshop in nature with an award-winning photographer.
Join award-winning photographer Monica for an inspiring half-day photography workshop in the Chamonix valley. Open to all levels and offered in both French and English, this small-group experience focuses on the art of seeing - learning to notice light, composition, and the details that give an image its soul.
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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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Chamonix Photo Festival
Mountain, nature and culture combine
Celebrating the beauty of nature at this three day photo festival all around the Chamonix valley
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Ice hockey match - Chamonix Pionniers
See the Chamonix Pionniers in action
The local Chamonix ice hockey team, the Pionniers, play in France's Synerglace Ligue Magnus, the first division. See them battle against other national teams at Chamonix's ice rink.
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Halloween in Chamonix
Check out the best parties around town this All Hallows' Eve
There will be a number of parties and events happening this Halloween at some of the best venues in town and neighbouring villages.
