The Chamonix Valley is set amongst stunning peaks, including the backdrop of Europe's highest mountain, the awesome Mont Blanc at 4808m. The valley offers some of the best skiing and accommodation in the Alps, and includes villages such as Les Houches, nearby Taconnaz and Les Bossons, Les Praz and finally Argentiere (at 1240m) at the top end of the valley. Chamonix town itself at 1035m lies halfway along the valley and is the main hub of activity.
The 16 km valley offers almost 150 km of varied piste (ranging from intermediate to extreme!); access to the slopes include the lifts at Les Houches, Brevent (600m out of Chamonix), Flegere (near Les Praz), Les Grands Montets (from Argentiere) and Le Tour at the top of the valley. Les Grands Montets goes up to 3275m although the famous 24 km off piste Vallee Blanche can be reached by a breath-taking ride up the Aiguille du Midi Cable car which goes up to the highest accessible point in the Alps at 3840m.
Les Houches (at 960m) is a small quite village with some great affordable accommodation. The ski resort of Les Houches is excellent, especially when the other resorts in the valley are closed due to high winds. There are some lively tree runs and some awe-inspiring views from the slopes of Mont Blanc itself.
Les Bossons and Taconnaz are small interlinking villages between Les Houches and Chamonix; Les Praz lies just up from Chamonix, with some good bars and a few shops. Argentiere (at 1240m) is a picturesque village with a bustling atmosphere and a good selection of bars and restaurants.
The valley is serviced by an efficient free bus service (with your lift pass). Please note that the photos shown are a mix of the villages in the Chamonix valley.back to top
Resort Altitude (m): 1035
Highest Lift (m): 3843
Total Piste (km): 152
Longest Ascent (km): 24
Pistes:
Easy (green): 17
Intermediate (blue/red): 47
Hard (black): 10
Terrain / Snowboard Park: Yes
Resort Ratings:
Beginners: 2/5
Intermediates: 4/5
Advanced: 5/5
Snowboarders: 5/5
Families: 3/5
Non-Skiers: 5/5
Apres-Ski: 4/5
Resort Charm: 5/5
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Argentière and Les Houches are more relaxed and informal than Chamonix but both have a good range of bars - a favourite being the Savoie Bar in Argentiere. For virtually round the clock apres-ski and a more lively atmosphere you need to hit Chamonix itself. Bard’ Up is probably one of the most popular bars in Chamonix and Chambre Neuf is one of the most renowned places for skiers and boarders to meet. Dicks T-Bar is situated in the oldest building in Chamonix, on the Rue des Moulins and open 7 days a week in the winter from 10 until 4 in the morning.back to top
The villages in the Chamonix Valley offer a wide range of eateries ranging from simple crêperies to gourmet cuisine restauarants. Chamonix town itself offers a much wider variety with over 100 superb restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets. Typical dishes include the local Savoyard specialities, fondues and pizzas. Firm favourites are the La Taniere, 'over the back' of Les Houches and a favourite among locals and holidaymakers is Les Vieilles Luges Restaurant again on the slopes of Les Houches; a beautifully restored farmhouse with authentic Savoyard mountain dishes.
If in Les Houches itself, try the Le Delice - a small but busy bar/bistro in the centre of the village, offering great food and atmosphere, from lunch to late evening.back to top
The main activities, beyond the skiing take place in Chamonix. These include a sports centre with tennis and squash courts, indoor heated pool with waterslides. There is a new fitness centre with sunbeds, sauna and a Turkish bath. Other activities include Heli-skiing, Paragliding, Sleigh rides and an ice skating rink.back to top
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