Resort Information
CHAMONIX
Chamonix is probably best known as the skiing and alpine capital of the world. As a destination it has a reputation for the extreme and this, whilst undoubtedly true, can mask a wide array of sporting and leisure activities, peace and quiet, great nightlife, and superb scenery that can be enjoyed at whichever pace suits you. There really is something for everyone here.
The lively streets of Chamonix are colourful with a mix of sport shops, guide offices, restaurants, bars and cafes. Every Saturday morning the town hosts an outdoor market brimming with local crafts and produce. On bad weather days there is a cinema, a bowling alley, an ice rink, a large sports centre with a pool, gym and indoor climbing wall and numerous museums in which to while away the day.
Situated in the Haute-Savoie region of France, Chamonix is bordered by Switzerland and Italy and dominated by the incredible Aiguilles de Chamonix mountain chain which peaks at the top of Mont Blanc (4810m) - the highest in Western Europe. The local population of Chamonix numbers around 10 000 inhabitants but this figure swells to nearly ten times that with the influx of tourists, climbers, alpinists, backpackers, students and seasonnaires. There are two distinct seasons here: summer and winter, but the area is busy for most of the year.
Whilst the principal town is of the same name, 'Chamonix' is often used in reference to the whole valley, stretching over 28km from Le Fayet to Switzerland. It is, however, made up of several distinct and charming villages including Servoz, Les Houches, Les Bossons, Les Praz, Les Tines, Argentiere, Montroc, and at the top of the valley - Le Tour and Vallorcine.
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING IN CHAMONIX
The Chamonix valley offers something for everyone, from beginner to expert as well as incomparable views. There are four main ski areas; Le Tour, Grands Montets, Brevent and Flegere which are outlined in more detail below. Chamonix is most famous for the Vallee Blanche, a 22 km off-piste glacier run with sensational views - a guide is essential.
SKI SCHOOLS
Our supplier Prestige Outdoor Sports is an exclusive members-only association, driven by our commitment to excellence.
Together with Prestige Outdoor Sports, we work towards offering you the very best in tailor-made winter sports experiences.
Our exclusive network of partners from ski instructors, to mountain restaurants, all share our commitment to professionalism and will ensure you the personalized welcome and quality of service that is exclusive to our clients.
1. PRIVATE SKI INSTRUCTION
Half day EUR 195
Full day EUR 360
2. TAILOR-MADE GUIDING
From glacier skiing to ice climbing, you can use tailor-made guiding to create your own bespoke course, specially adapted to meet your personal goals. Private Guiding is perfect for creating that dream day out. No. of people: from 1 to 6 (according to guide ratio & itinerary). Please contact us for further information on customized guiding programs.
Full day EUR 370
3. OFF PISTE EXPERIENCE
Take advantage of the combined knowledge and experience of two mountain professionals by spending the day with a high mountain guide and a ski instructor. With plenty of valuable tips and techniques for skiing off-piste, you'll get maximum enjoyment from your day's skiing.
Group from 4 to 6 pers EUR 185 pp
EQUIPMENT HIRE
We work with shops who can deliver your skis & boots directly to the chalet, however it is sometimes more convenient to choose and try out your equipment at the shop. Prices for hire do vary with prices for rental for the day, including ski's, boots and poles start from €25 and hire for the week starts from around €105.
Please click below to view more information about the ski shops we work with:
Hurycana Sports - Argentiere: www.twinner-argentiere.fr
Thierry who runs Hurycana Sports is a lovely man who will always look after his clients and do his very best for them. He has a good and varied collection of rental skis as-well as equipment for touring and cross-country skiing. Thierry can deliver to your chalet.
Sanglard Sports - Chamonix: www.rentski.com
Sanglard Sports is one of the largest sport shops in Chamonix offering very good service and an extraordinary boot-fitting corner for tailor-made ski and snow-board boots. Their prices are slightly higher than other rental companies due to a more prestigious ski collection.
lift passes
please click on the link below for thel latest prices for
http://www.compagniedumontblanc.co.uk/en/lift-passes
PISTE INFOrmation on different ski areas
Les Grands Montets (1230m-3330m)
Les Grands Montets is perfect for the more experienced Skier/snowboarder. A Snow park has recently been installed for the more adventurous with a number of kickers, rollers and rails. The ultimate in off-piste skiing for those big powder days but definitely not recommended for beginners. (link)
Brevent/Flegere (1095m-2525m)
These areas are great for intermediate to advanced skiers/snowboarders. There are also limited beginner areas. Both areas are linked via the Liaison Brevent/Flegere and provide a whole day's worth of varied runs on the sunny side of the valley with fabulous views of the Mont Blanc range.
Le Tour (1480m-2230m).
Le Tour is a perfect mellow pitch for beginner and intermediate skiers/snowboarders with enough off-piste terrain to provide a cruisy backcountry day for the more advanced. The best place to head for powder tree runs and amazing views back down the valley.
Les Houches (1000m-1900m)
Les Houches is the lowest of all ski areas and the furthest away from Hip Chalets but perfect for bad weather days when all other ski areas are closed due to avalanche risks and high winds. Many blue and green wide runs for the beginner/intermediate skier/snowboarder, and a newly installed snow park.
Please click here to view more information on the different ski areas in Chamonix: www.compagniedumontblanc.com or click on the map below to see it in a larger format.
Winter activities
Evening excursions!
"ITALIAN JOB"
After your day's activities why not spend the evening in the neighboring resort of Courmayeur. Leaving Chamonix at 5pm, we reach the foot of the Italian slopes and travel by skidoo to our restaurant – a thrilling trip piloted by expert local drivers. After a fantastic dinner of the very best regional Italian cuisine, we return to the valley on skis with torchlit descent (non skiers can descend by skidoo).
Group from 7 pers. EUR 188 pp
"JAMES BOND NIGHT"
Enjoy the thrill of an evening quad ride up to the Auberge de Colombaz in the enchanting resort of Les Contamines, where a delicious gastronomic meal awaits. Indulge yourself in local specialties before embarking on a tremendous 3km descent by sledge back down to the village.
Group from 6 pers. EUR 155 pp
"HUSKY SLEDGING"
Spend a memorable and fun evening driving your own team of huskies around in the twilight! You will be introduced to the dogs and shown how to control the sled before hitching up the huskies and setting off in convoy around tranquil forest and mountain paths. Each person has their own head-torch, sled and team of huskies to manage during the 30-40 minute tour which finishes with a well earned meal in the warmth of a local restaurant.
Groups from 4-6 pers. EUR 135 pp
HELI-SKIING
If you are looking for an extra special addition to your ski holiday and you are an expert skier then you might like to consider the various heli skiing options in the region. You can fly from either Italy or Switzerland using an expert guide taking you to some of the most spectacular powder fields in the western alps.
HELICOPTER TOURS
Fly over the breathtaking peaks of the Alps, skim over jagged ridges and hover beside sheer granite cliffs. You will have unimaginable views of the majestic Mont Blanc Massif with its famous peaks such as Les Drus, Grandes Jorasses and of course Europe’s highest mountain itself at nearly 16 000 ft, the Mont Blanc.
Please note that the flight durations are approximate. Maximum number of people in one helicopter : 6.
We can customize flights, please contact us for more information.
Aiguille Verte and Les Drus.15mn. EUR 630
Grande Jorasse and Vallée Blanche. 20mn. EUR 830
Mont Blanc. 25mn EUR 990
SUMMER IN CHAMONIX
During your stay at one of our amazing luxury chalets there are countless activities on offer. In the summer months of stunning sunshine Chamonix and the surrounding area has an abundance of walking, cycling, riding and running routes. As one of the few alpine resorts that stays open all year round Chamonix draws the outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers as well as those simply looking for some fresh air and relaxation.
Activities
- Biking
- Hiking
- Paragliding
- Rafting, Hydro speeding or Canyonging
- Golf
- Horse-riding
- Yoga
- Climbing
- Children's Activities
RESTAURANTS IN AND AROUND CHAMONIX
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Chamonix and Argentiere, from those serving a pizzas and pastas, new world food, Chinese and Indian to the more traditional Savoyard dishes, including raclettes, fondues, reblochannades and tartiflettes. In busy periods don’t forget to make a reservation to ensure that you get the restaurant of your choice.
Here are just a few restaurants, which have always been popular with previous guests:
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
Albert Premier Gourmet Restaurant - 2 Michelin stars, phenomenal food and excellent service. This is by far the most exclusive restaurant in Chamonix.
La Cabane des Praz - Beautiful setting and lovely French cuisine offered in luxurious log cabin-style next to the golf course. One of our absolute favourites.
Atmosphere - Fantastic restaurant located on the river in the centre of Chamonix, very good menu and fantastic wine cellar.
Le Munchie - Buzzing and fun restaurants with great cross-over fusion food. Always very, very tasty and fun experience.
La Maison Carrier - Traditional local fair at its best. Spectacular farmhouse setting.
La Flambee (Argentiere) -
Le Bistrot - Culinary experience in minimalist decor located in Hotel Morgan ****. Well-groomed and professional sommelier, beautiful presentations.
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
L’Impossible - Slow cooked organic food in a very beautiful and rustic farmhouse.
Neapolis - The best pizzas and pastas in Chamonix. Very friendly and affordable.
La Bergerie - Lovely steaks and traditional food.
Le Caleche - The families favourite. Entertaining, local restaurant serving traditional food in the very heart of Chamonix.
Casa Valerio - Buzzing Italian, often crowded, popular with locals.
Le Sarpe - Local restaurant in Les Bois within walking distance from many of our chalets. Very cosy and buzzing, popular with the locals.
La Remise - newly renovated, sophisticated with charm of the old setting with a lovely wood fireplace. the food is exceptional and beautifullly presented.
BARS IN CHAMONIX
Chamonix offers a great range of bars and clubs. Some of the more popular ones are listed below:
Chambre Neuf – Lively après ski in a very Scandinavian setting. Lots of good foot stomping bands. 2 for 1 cocktails between 9 and 10.
La Terrasse – Right in the centre of Chamonix beside the river, La Terrasse has many après ski and late night bands. Friendly English speaking staff.
Mix Bar – On the lively rue des Moulins, the newest and currently a very popular bar. Modern relaxed vibe, great drinks and good music.
Elevation – a great bar and café open all day serving good value food and drinks
Cantina – Local DJs and great tunes make this a perfect late night option.
Choucas – A cheesier alternative when the bars close.
Le Tof – A small but fun club in the heart of Chamonix Sud.
ARGENTIERE:
Office Bar – The Office Bar is perfect for a cheeky beer, also serves good quality snacks and meals.
Rusticana – Another bar/restaurant with a good atmosphere.
Stone Bar – Quality pizzas and beers in a warm friendly setting.
Fu Bar – Sports bar with amazing happy hour deals plus the notorious bucking bronco in the centre!
