Cascade du Dard from Chamonix
A short but rewarding hike up to a dramatic waterfall overlooking Chamonix
Cascade du Dard is a dramatic waterfall tucked away in the forest beneath the Aiguille du Midi.
Starting from Chamonix bus station, this hike only takes around 45 minutes to get there and less to get back, making it ideal if you only have time for a quick jaunt. The view of the cascade is worth the effort and the dense forest gives you the feeling of having escaped into the wilderness within a very short distance of Chamonix town.
Once you get near to the waterfall there are a couple of bridges to cross that give you a fantastic view of the cascade in all its glory.
What to bring
This is only a short route but it is quite steep and there are lots of rocks and tree roots to pick your way around. Some people may find hiking poles useful for balance.
What to see
Sights in Chamonix
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Les Bossons glacier
Located 1.7 km away
This small two person chairlift is only open for a short time in summer, but it's great if you want to take a close up look at the bottom of the Glacier des Bossons.
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Espace Tairraz Crystal Museum
Located 2.2 km away
Discover the minerals from the Mont Blanc Valley, famous throughout the world, and learn more about the art of mountaineering.
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Mer de Glace and Montenvers cog railway
Located 2.3 km away
No trip to Chamonix should be complete without a visit to the legendary Mer de Glace, the longest and arguably the most impressive glacier in the Chamonix valley. It is also the largest glacier in France.
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Maison de la Memoire et du Patrimoine, Chamonix- Centre
Located 2.3 km away
This museum houses exhibits of Chamonix's past.
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Municipal library
Located 2.5 km away
The main central library for Chamonix which houses the occasional exhibition and lectures.
Where to lunch
There is a wonderful little chalet just before the cascade that is open all summer and serves hot meals, salads, sandwiches, cakes, ice cream and drinks on their pretty wooden terrace. Check in advance for opening hours.
Restaurants in Chamonix
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Restaurant Refuge de la Flégère (winter only)
Located in Chamonix
A lovely restaurant located in the Chamonix valley, the Refuge de la Flégère is a true haven for culinary delights in the heart of the mountains.
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La Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Located in Chamonix
Situated in La Folie Douce Hotel, enjoy a delicious meal after a morning on the slopes with family or friends.
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Stories & Beer
Located in Chamonix
Stories is a local craft beer bar and taco restaurant in Chamonix. Enjoy a slice of Mexico in France.
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Bighorn Bistro Restaurant
Located in Chamonix
Bighorn Bistro opened its doors in 2015 with hopes of becoming a staple in the local and tourist communities with their fresh homemade food, artisanal beers and a friendly service. They did just that.
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Pointe Isabelle Bar and Bistro Restaurant
Located in Chamonix
This tastefully refurbished restaurant and bar are right in the heart of Chamonix on the popular Avenue Michel Croz, close to the train station.
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What to do
Things To Do in Chamonix
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Snowshoe Day Hikes in Chamonix
Located in Chamonix
Suitable for all abilities and tailored to your group. A perfect way to experience the mountains.
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Tandem Paragliding
Located in Chamonix
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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Classic Haute Route Trek, from Chamonix
Cloud 9 Adventure is a small independent adventure travel company run by Emma Jack. They offer expert guiding services in and around Chamonix Valley and further afield.
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Vallee Blanche Off-Piste Ski Guiding
Located in Chamonix
Trust this local team of High Mountain Guides (UIAGM), Ski and Snowboard Instructors, all of whom have the highest level of state qualifications.
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Cinema VOX
Located in Chamonix
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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Teresa Kaufman Outdoor Photography Classes
Located in Chamonix
'The best photo class you will ever take', is Teresa's bold strapline for her unique photo walk classes, which take place in the incredible outdoors of the Chamonix Valley and offer an opportunity to photograph the major mountains and viewpoints.
Where to stay
Hotels in Chamonix
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La Folie Douce Hotel
Located in Chamonix
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.
Price: €2,280
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Le Genepy Aparthotel
Located in Chamonix
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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Chamois Blanc Apartment Residence
Located in Chamonix
Stay in the heart of Chamonix-Sud at Le Chamois Blanc, a charming residence close to shops, the train station and cable car.
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Pointe Isabelle Hotel
Located in Chamonix
Ideally located, the hotel has 45 spacious, well appointed bedrooms with great views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges mountains.
Price: €2,244
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La Ginabelle Premium Residence
Located in Chamonix
La Ginabelle offers cosy, alpine-style apartments, just steps from shops, restaurants and mountain adventures.
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La Chaumiere Mountain Lodge
Located in Chamonix
This mountain lodge enjoys a prime location just metres from the ski bus stop and local train station, with the town centre only a short walk away. Recently refurbished, it now features a smart, modern interior.
Price: €1,471
Directions
Starting from the bus station in Chamonix Sud, turn right in front of the Hotel Les Aiglons and turn left up Chemin du Cry and follow it all the way to the end until it bends to the right.
Look to the left and follow the little overgrown path to the river, turn left under the bridge and climb the stairs on the other side of the road.
Follow the hiking signs into the forest to find the start of the trail.