As winter begins to take hold in the Chamonix Valley, we take a look at all that's new.
What’s new this winter in Chamonix
From the ski area to what's fresh in the resorts of Chamonix
From a major redevelopment at Grands Montets to new restaurants, a revamped hotel and a brand new museum, there are plenty of reasons to discover what’s changed in the Chamonix Valley this winter.
Winter 2026/27 brings one of the biggest changes to Chamonix’s ski areas in years, with the first phase of the Grands Montets redevelopment finally opening. There are also new places to eat, drink and unwind in town, and the newly opened Musée du Mont-Blanc offers a break from the slopes.
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On the slopes
A new chapter for Grands Montets
The biggest news this winter is the return of the first stage of the rebuilt Grands Montets ski area.
The new 10-person gondola linking Argentière with Lognan is due to enter service for the Christmas holidays, replacing the old connection following the 2018 fire. At Lognan, you'll find a new arrival area and front de neige, along with new food and drink facilities and public toilets. The redevelopment has been designed by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, giving this legendary ski area a striking new look.
There is, however, one important detail for returning visitors: the summit isn't coming back just yet. The new 3S cable car linking Lognan with the Grands Montets summit at more than 3,000m is scheduled for winter 2027/28. So, for 2026/27, the upper part of the mountain remains accessible to ski tourers rather than by lift.
A new food stop at Plan Joran
The Plan Joran restaurant has had a complete makeover and returns as a new Alpine food court. You'll be able to choose between several food counters, including Neapolitan pizza, pasta, bistro dishes, sandwiches, salads, soups and coffee.
There's indoor and terrace seating, with digital ordering via QR codes and interactive terminals. The food court is scheduled to open from 14 December 2026, subject to the lifts operating.
In the valley
The new Musée du Mont-Blanc
One of Chamonix's biggest cultural projects has finally opened. The newly renovated Musée du Mont-Blanc was inaugurated in July 2026, following an extensive transformation of the former Chamonix Palace building.
The museum explores the history, culture and relationship between people and the Mont-Blanc massif, bringing together collections spanning mountaineering, skiing, tourism and life in the valley. It's a good option for a non-skiing day or when the weather isn't playing ball.
A fresh look for Le Morgane
Hôtel Le Morgane is set to reopen in December 2026 following a major renovation, giving one of Chamonix's established four-star hotels a new lease of life.
The hotel sits close to the Aiguille du Midi and combines contemporary interiors with Alpine influences, making it one to watch if you're looking for somewhere new to stay this winter.
Breizh Café comes to Chamonix
There's a new name on the Chamonix restaurant scene this winter as Breizh Café opens in the centre of town. The Breton crêperie is putting a distinctly Alpine spin on its menu, combining buckwheat galettes and French cider with local ingredients and Savoyard cheeses such as Reblochon and Raclette. It's a nice alternative when you've had your fill of traditional mountain food but still want something distinctly French.
More to discover
A new Nordic challenge
Cross-country skiers have a new way to explore the Chamonix Nordic area with the AlpVengers app and its Nordic Tour. The gamified routes combine skiing with quizzes and challenges, with a shorter discovery route and a longer sporting option.
It's aimed at making Nordic skiing a little more playful, particularly for families and anyone who likes a bit of competition alongside their exercise.
More places to eat and relax
The valley continues to see a steady stream of new food and wellness options, from independent cafés and restaurants to revamped hotel facilities. Rather than trying to list every new opening, check our restaurant, bar and café guides for the latest additions during your stay.
What's happening this winter?
As always, Chamonix's winter calendar is packed with sporting events, festivals and activities. Keep an eye on our events calendar for the latest dates, including ski competitions, music events, markets and seasonal celebrations.
And, of course, the best way to see what's really new is to get out and explore.
Whether you're here for the skiing, mountain scenery, food or simply the atmosphere, Chamonix continues to evolve while retaining plenty of the character that makes the valley special.
