Usually the quietest month of the year, everyone is either taking a well-earned break or enjoying some calm before the winter arrives
Whilst there's not lots going on around the valley, there are still some places open.
This is Chamonix, there's always something to do, on a clear crisp autumnal day pull on a warm jacket and get up into the mountains to see the beautiful seasonal colours. Read on for a look at what we like to do in resort throughout November.
The weather in November can be pretty uninspiring, the snow hasn't arrived yet and if we're lucky a few sunny days give us some respite from the rain, average rainfall is around 18 days in November. Average temperatures fall between 1°C and 8°C, so there's definitely a chill in the air and the occasional frost. It has been known to snow at this time of year when temperatures take a sudden nose dive.
Take a look at our events calendar to see what events may be happening in November.
Drink some Beaujolais Nouveau
Fermented for only a few weeks, the release of this 'new wine' every year on the third Thursday of November has become a tradition across France. Produced simply and quickly, this wine is made for immediate consumption. The race between distributors to get their product to different markets around the world is well known; by law all grapes must be harvested by hand, however, the grapes are still subject to the seasonal variations that mark the differences between vintages. As such, they can be seen as an early indicator of the quality of the year's wine harvest. Look around to see if any bars in Chamonix will be stocking the new wine and holding tasting sessions.
Early winter skiing
Verbier, Switzerland
Depending on snow conditions Verbier often opens at weekends throughout November. A great opportunity to hop across the border and warm up those ski legs for the forthcoming season.
Cervinia, Italy
Sitting at just over 2,000m above sea level makes Cervinia one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, meaning low temperatures and good consistent snowfall and skiing that is available nearly year round. This resort is usually open for the winter season from mid-October, so if you're here with a car, set off early for some autumn skiing on the Plateau Rosa glacier in view of the mighty Matterhorn. You won't be disappointed.
This is only a small selection of all that there is to do in Chamonix ahead of the winter season. Take a look at all the events and activities on offer in the valley.
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 Events
