Chamonix is often interchangeable with Mont Blanc and, while the mountain deserves the worldwide fame it has, the village itself is much more. It is a picturesque place to enjoy the outdoors, from valleys to mountains. Hiking, skiing and catching snowflakes are only a few of the great things to see and do during a getaway here.
Practicalities:
Getting there & getting around:
Chamonix is not the easiest place to get to; due to it’s beautiful mountains! The easiest and fastest way I have found is to fly into Geneva airport and get a transfer. Some hotels will offer transfers, if not you can get a company to take care of it. We used EasyBus, I highly recommend them. They even returned our lost passports that we left on the bus!
From London it is a 1.5 hour flight and a 1 hour transfer from Geneva airport to Chamonix.
Forms needed and filled out
- EU PLF
- Swiss Locator Form
- NHS Vaccine Pass
- Insurance
Accomodation:
If you’re looking for a spot of indulgence, we enjoyed a stay at Alpina Hotel and Spa which is a stunning hotel perfectly located in the center of Chamonix Village. They have a ski storage, luxury spa and restaurant overlooking the Alps. I can’t recommend it enough.
Price:
Chamonix is world renowned for its luxury, therefore it is not a budget location unfortunately. There are budget options for stays but overall this will hit the pocket. Below is a rough guide for 2 people. per day.
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How Long To Stay:
We went for a weekend, but would of stayed up to a week, whether you are skiing or hiking, there is so much to do.
When To Go:
The Alps is a year round destination. For the very best snow conditions and to make the most of the full extent of Chamonix’s mythical skiing, including the Vallée Blanche, it’s best to look at visiting between the middle-end of January and the end of March
Travel Tips:
It is best to book any ski and ski equipment well in advance, you will get a much better price if you buy online and in advance. Also make sure to give yourself ample time. There is a lot of faff when going on a Ski trip. it takes longer to get to the mountains than a usual holiday and you will need to budget time to get fitted with skis and boots.
Currently, as of Feb 2022, you will need your NHS vaccination pass to use the ski lifts.
What To See & Do in Chamonix:
Mont Blanc
Straddling three countries, Mont Blanc is the crown jewel of the Chamonix region. It’s the highest mountain in the Alps and one of the most imposing on the continent. The courageous can tackle this mountain head on, but that doesn’t mean the cautious will miss out: a cable car takes you straight up to the summit. After scraping the sky on Mont Blanc’s peak, consider seeing the mountain from the inside via the Mont Blanc tunnel.
Paragliding Tandem Flight over the Alps in Chamonix
Soar above the Alps on a tandem paragliding flight in Chamonix, riding the air currents from Plan Praz or Plan de l’Aiguille (additional cost). No experience is required for this tandem paragliding flight, which means you can get all the thrills with an expert to ensure a safe, fun ride. Launch from 3,900 feet (2,100 meters), then enjoy dramatic views as you fly over picturesque villages and rocky ridges.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Chamonix offers a multitude of slopes for all levels, each ski area having its own merit. If you are a skier, it has to be on your bucket list. Chamonix has become a bucket-list resort for snow lovers who revel in testing terrain. The altitude is also a draw, and the ski area boasts lifts that reach a height of over 9,842 feet (3,000 meters). Speed down the high-altitude pistes of Grand Montets to Argentière, and discover off-piste delights at Combe de la Pendant. Test your freestyle skills at Lognan’s snow park and boardercross, and then cruise back to Chamonix via the Pierre à Ric piste.
Enjoy Delicious Food
There are numerous incredible eateries across the city, but here are a few personal favourites you can’t miss:
- Patisserie Richard. The best spot for breakfast or brunch. They have delicious dishes and mouth watering baked goods.
- La Maison Carrier Traditional, slow – cooked dishes like pike quenelles and regional produce (black pudding). Generous, noble and flavoursome, full of the heart. Michelin Star.
- Cote Macarons. If you’re seeking amazing pastries, this the place. All the food looks like artwork, tiny sculptures! It is a branch from Patisserie Richard, which is my favourite.
- Sesame. One of the only Vegan restaurants in town. It was the best meal we had in Chamonix and we were disappointed they were closed on our last night. They have a range of food, that changes with the season.
- La Caleche. Recipes as Gallic as La Marseillaise, regional specialities and game in season take pride of place on the menu. Splendid wine list.
