Chamonix
The legendary mountain town at the foot of Mont Blanc, with serious skiing in winter and glacier views, hiking and fresh air all summer.
Under Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in Western Europe, and in Chamonix it towers over the town wherever you go.
Chamonix, France: the original Alpine resort
Chamonix sits in a deep valley in the French Alps, close to both Switzerland and Italy, with the Mont Blanc massif rising straight up from the edge of town. It hosted the very first Winter Olympics in 1924 and has been a magnet for skiers, climbers and mountain lovers ever since.
Unlike many purpose-built ski resorts, Chamonix is a real town, with a lively centre, cafés, bars and shops open all year round. That makes it just as rewarding in summer as in winter, and one of the most exciting mountain destinations in France.
Skiing in Chamonix
The Chamonix valley is made up of several separate ski areas linked by buses, including Les Grands Montets, Brévent and Flégère. Much of the skiing is high and steep, and the valley is famous for off-piste terrain that draws experienced skiers from all over the world.
Beginners and families are welcome too, with gentler slopes in the lower areas and plenty of ski schools. For the full picture of slopes, conditions and the ski season, read our guide to skiing in Chamonix.
Big mountain skiing
Chamonix is known for its demanding terrain. If you plan to go off-piste, always hire a qualified mountain guide.
Aiguille du Midi and the Vallée Blanche
The cable car to the Aiguille du Midi is one of the most spectacular rides in the Alps. It climbs from the town centre to a viewing platform at 3,842 metres, with close-up views of Mont Blanc and the glaciers around it. Bring warm clothes even in summer, and take it slowly at altitude.
The Aiguille du Midi is also the starting point for the Vallée Blanche, a famous off-piste descent across the glaciers back towards Chamonix. It should only be done with a mountain guide.
Aiguille du Midi
Go early on a clear day for the best views and the shortest queues for the cable car.
Things to do in Chamonix in summer
When the snow melts, the valley turns green and Chamonix becomes a hub for hiking, climbing and trail running.
Hiking: well-marked trails lead to mountain lakes and balcony paths with views across to Mont Blanc.
Mer de Glace: the historic Montenvers rack railway takes you up to France's largest glacier.
Paragliding: tandem flights over the valley are a classic Chamonix experience.
Trail running: the valley hosts major mountain races, and the trails are busy with runners all summer.
Day trips to Italy: cable cars and the Mont Blanc Tunnel connect Chamonix with Courmayeur on the Italian side.
Glacier country
The glaciers around Chamonix are part of what makes the valley so dramatic, in winter and summer alike.
Getting to Chamonix
Geneva is the nearest major airport, and from there it is a drive of roughly an hour to an hour and a half to Chamonix, depending on traffic. Shared and private transfers run from the airport, and there are also bus connections. You can reach the valley by train too, via Saint-Gervais.
Chamonix is often mentioned among the best ski resorts in Europe. See how it compares with Zermatt and Bad Gastein in our list of the top three ski resorts in Europe.
When is the best time to visit Chamonix?
The best time to visit Chamonix depends on what you want to do. For skiing, January to March usually offers the most reliable snow, while the high areas often stay open into spring. For hiking and summer activities, aim for late June to early September, when most trails and lifts are open.
Spring and autumn are quieter shoulder seasons, when some lifts close for maintenance. Check the lift and weather situation before you travel, as mountain conditions can change quickly.
Frequently asked questions about Chamonix
Is Chamonix good for beginner skiers?
Chamonix is best known for advanced skiing, but beginners can still enjoy it. There are gentle slopes and nursery areas in the valley, and plenty of ski schools. Just be aware that the different ski areas are spread out, so you will need to use buses or a car to get between them.
How do you get from Geneva to Chamonix?
The easiest way from Geneva to Chamonix is a shared or private transfer from Geneva Airport, which usually takes around an hour to an hour and a half. There are also scheduled buses, and you can drive yourself in a hire car. Allow extra time on busy Saturdays in the ski season.
Is Chamonix worth visiting in summer?
Yes, Chamonix is well worth visiting in summer. The valley is one of the best bases in the Alps for hiking, climbing and trail running, and lifts such as the Aiguille du Midi cable car operate in summer too. The town is lively, and the views of Mont Blanc are spectacular on clear days.
Can you see Mont Blanc from Chamonix?
Yes, Mont Blanc can be seen from Chamonix on a clear day, rising directly above the town. For the best views, take the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi or head up to the Brévent or Flégère side of the valley, which looks straight across at the massif.