About activities in Chamonix

Top things to do in Chamonix

Below are our three favourite activities in Chamonix but there are plenty more to choose from.

Winter sports, skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are probably the most popular winter activities in the the Valley, but there's ski touring, split boarding, cross-country skiing and télémarking. The the Valley mountains are also the perfect setting to go snowshoeing and husky dog sledging, whilst the ice skating rink in Chamonix town centre will keep the whole family entertained.

Mountain biking

The valley tracks and trails in the area attract hundreds of biking aficionados every summer. Meander through lush forests to reach stunning mountaintops with breathtaking views. 

Walking, hiking and running

In the summer, the pistes turn into meadows and deep-forested trails to explore on foot. From easy valley strolls to gruelling trail running ascents and descents, everyone can explore the beautiful sunny landscapes.

Check out the selection of things to do below for some holiday inspiration – you'll see that there are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding in Chamonix.

Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding in Chamonix

Chamonix is great place for skiing and snowboarding, offering something for every level across five different ski areas. Whether you’re carving smooth beginner pistes, tackling thrilling off-piste runs, or exploring almost 60km of cross-country trails, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Modern lifts and varied snowparks make it easy to enjoy all kinds of terrain, while options like night skiing, speed riding and télémarking add extra excitement. With adapted lessons and equipment available, everyone can experience the slopes, making Chamonix a welcoming and unforgettable winter playground.

Climbing in Chamonix

Chamonix is a great place to give climbing a go or push yourself further, whatever your level. Head to well known spots like Les Gaillands for an easy day out, explore the crags around Vallorcine, or try bouldering near the Grands Montets. If the weather’s not playing ball, there are great indoor climbing walls in both Les Houches and central Chamonix. For a more secure way to reach new heights, Via Ferrata routes offer metal steps and ladders with spectacular mountain views. And if you’re after something truly memorable, you can scale frozen waterfalls or join a guide to take on the high routes of the Mont Blanc massif.

Culture and guided tours in Chamonix

Chamonix is packed with cultural sights and guided experiences that let you explore the valley’s heritage, nature and alpine traditions. You can take in spectacular views from the Aiguille du Midi, ride the Montenvers train to the Mer de Glace and its famous ice cave, or wander through the galleries and museums dotted across the valley. From waterfalls and gorges in Servoz to local weekly markets and charming historical sites, there’s plenty to discover at your own pace or with a guide. Whether you’re visiting an animal park, riding the mini train or trying your hand at pétanque, Chamonix offers more than just mountain adventures.

Cycling in Chamonix

Cycling

The whole of the Alps are known worldwide for hosting some of the most gruelling stages of the Tour de France so, to gain the most from your riding in the area, you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. There are some renowned climbs near Chamonix, including the Col de Colombière, Col du Grand Saint Bernard, Col de Joux Plaine or Col des Aravis, as well as lesser-known but fun rides like the Col des Montets, the Emosson dam, the Col de la Forclaz or the tour around Lake Annecy.

Flying in Chamonix

Take to the skies in and around the Chamonix valley and enjoy the mountains from a whole new perspective. From scenic helicopter tours to peaceful hot air balloon rides and thrilling paragliding flights, there are plenty of ways to experience the Alps from above.

Daily helicopter trips offer panoramic views over  and the snowy peaks of Aiguille de Midi and Mont Blanc, while hot air ballooning gives a more relaxed way to take it all in. For something more hands-on, try paragliding with a local instructor and glide down from one of the nearby peaks.

Golf in Chamonix

You can play a round with stunning mountain views at the 18 hole golf course in Les Praz, just a few minutes from Chamonix. Surrounded by iconic peaks like Mont Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi, it’s a memorable place to tee off. The course is open from spring, with lessons and week-long courses available in English for all levels.

Horse riding in Chamonix

Horse riding is a great way to explore the Chamonix valley’s trails and take in the scenery from a different perspective. You can join a guided trek or take lessons at the riding school in Les Houches. For younger riders, the mini-ranch at Paradis des Praz offers gentle pony rides through the woods.

Indoor activities in Chamonix

There’s plenty to do indoors in Chamonix, whether you’re taking a break from the slopes or the weather is not on your side. You can hit the gym at the sports centre, give the indoor climbing wall a go, unwind with a spa session or have a browse around the museums or local shops. You’ll also find bowling at Hotel PlanB and a cinema in town and one in Les Houches – just check for VOST screenings if you want to catch a film in English.

Mountain-biking & Fat-biking in Chamonix

Mountain biking

Chamonix offers some of the best terrain for mountain biking in Europe. There are hundreds of kilometres of fast, smooth and rocky trails available all under the backdrop of Mont Blanc. If you’re not a fan of the uphill, then you can always take the stress out of it all by taking any of the main lifts up and enjoying the descent. Mountain biking in Chamonix has something for all riders, from beginners right up to the more technically advanced. Note that, in French, mountain biking is called VTT (Vélo Tout-Terrain!).

Fat biking

A fairly recent craze, the fat bike is completely at home in the snow. Although it will be difficult to mountain bike along the valley floor during the winter months, hiring a fat bike can offer you hours of fun in the snow. Several of the ski hire shops in town will also rent fat bikes and they can also tell you the best trails in the valley to tackle.

Snow and ice activities in Chamonix

Winter in Chamonix is packed with snowy adventures beyond the ski slopes. You can hike across glaciers with a guide, explore peaceful forest trails on snowshoes or whizz down hills on a sledge or snow tube. Try your hand at dog sledding, enjoy a spin on one of the valley’s ice rinks or brave the alpine rollercoaster at Planards. From scenic snowshoe routes to thrilling glacier treks and fun family zones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the snow.

Spas and massages in Chamonix

Spas

If it's calm and relaxation you're after then head to a luxury day spa or book in for massage therapies and beauty treatments. 

Most luxury hotels in the Chamonix valley have a spa and many of them are open to the public. You can keep warm and revive aching muscles in saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis or take a refreshing dip in a swimming pool. Unwind, relax and indulge.

Theme parks, waterparks and aquariums in Chamonix

Chamonix has plenty of fun on offer for families and thrill seekers at its adventure parks and leisure areas. Test your aim with a round of paintball in the woods, or tackle high ropes, zip lines and tree-top courses at one of several local parks. Younger visitors can enjoy mini go-karts, trampolines and a rollercoaster-style summer luge at the Parc de Loisirs near the Montenvers station. It’s a great way to spend a few active hours off the mountain.

Walking, hiking and running in Chamonix

Chamonix is a fantastic place to explore on foot, whether you’re after a gentle stroll along the valley floor or a more challenging hike up into the mountains. With around 600km of well-marked trails, you’re spoiled for choice in both summer and winter. If you’re into trail running, you’ll find world-class routes with big climbs and stunning scenery, plus expert advice available at the Maison du Trail. In winter, many trails remain open and accessible, with lifts helping you reach higher ground and simple gear making it easy to enjoy the snow-covered paths.

Watersports in Chamonix

There are plenty of ways to make a splash in Chamonix during the summer months. From rafting through town to tackling faster rapids just across the border, you’ll find a range of white water activities to suit all ages and abilities. Try canoeing, canyoning or hydrospeeding with expert guides and all the gear you need for a fun and safe day on the river.