Ski Holidays in Chamonix, France
Chamonix is a year-round sightseeing destination thanks to its fantastic environment and major attractions such as the Aiguille du Midi cablecar (3842) or the red cog-wheel train of Montenvers which climbs to the famous Mer de Glace. A resort where there is something for everyone, Chamonix holidays are a sure seller, whether during the winter season or summer.
One of the world's most visited natural sites, the Chamonix valley is located at the foot of the Mont-Blanc, Europe's highest summit at 4810m. Registered on the world heritage list, Chamonix, the birthplace of mountaineering, is considered the grand old lady of alpine resorts. Internationally renowned for its exceptional environment, Chamonix is the reference when it comes to mountain holidays.
Skiing in Chamonix
The ski season begins around mid-December but depending on snow conditions, the lifts may open much sooner. Natural spring snow allows for great skiing up until the 8th of May when the season officially ends.
Despite its low altitude (1035 m), 90% of the ski areas are located above 2000 m, making Chamonix a "guaranteed-snow" resort. The ski terrain is divided into three areas all linked by an efficient shuttle bus service and a panoramic sightseeing train (free with Guest Card or Ski Pass). The world famous Grands Montets is considered the Mecca for skiers, snowboarders and freeriders but there are many different possibilities available for skiers of all levels throughout the resort on their ski holidays in Chamonix. It has a long standing reputation amongst skiers, many of whom come eith to ski the famous "Vallée Blanche" or to takle some of the most challenging off-piste skiing available. The lift pass also offers a day's skiing in Courmayeur in Italy.
If you prefer walking or snowshoeing, then ski holidays in Chamonix have just what you need to enjoy high mountain scenery: discover the Mer de Glace with the picturesque cog railway of Montenvers, take Europe's highest cablecar to the top of the Aiguille du Midi, ride on the Tramway du Mont-Blanc, France's highest cog railway, fly over the Mont-Blanc range with Chamonix Mont-Blanc Helicopters - or simply enjoy the 17 km of footpaths which take you deep into the winter landscape. For a change of scenery, the Chamonix Bus Company offers day trips to beautiful nearby cities such as Annecy, Geneva (Switzerland) and Aosta (Italy).
Other activities for Ski Holidays in Chamonix
A large sports complex offers: sports hall, indoor and outdoor ice rink, speed skating rink, 19 tennis courts (quick and clay) including 4 indoor courts, squash courts, swimming-pool complex with water-slide & fitness centre (saunas, Turkish baths, solarium). Numerous runways are available for hang and paragliders. The Alpine Museum and a range of exhibitions with varied themes are offered throughout the season... Chamonix is the only ski resort able to offer such a wide selection of entertainment.
Apres-ski for Ski Holidays in Chamonix
Ski holidays in Chamonix host a wide selection of typical cafés and tempting pastry shops along with 14 bars, 80 restaurants, 100 shops and 7 discotheques. The world-class casino in the centre of town will tempt the gambler in you with black jack, roulette and slot machines of the purest tradition. The Vox Cinema delights movie goers with all the latest films - and frequently in the original version.