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Last Updated: 19 January 2024

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc ski resort is famous for its ideal location at the foot of Europe’s highest peak. What was a small mountain village until the end of the 19th century has become a cosmopolitan centre in the French Alps of Haute-Savoie. The resort is an excellent base for exploring three iconic sites: the Aiguille du Midi, the Mer de Glace, and the Brévent mountain.

🎥 Watch our short video on Chamonix to discover the fantastic alpine resort ⤵

 

 

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: a bit of history

Before the 18th century, Chamonix (or Chamouni as it was then known) was situated in a remote position at the foot of Mont-Blanc, “the doomed mountain”. 

In 1760, Swiss geologist Horace Bénédict de Saussure (1740-1799) offered a reward to the first man to reach the summit of Mont Blanc. Two Chamonix men, Michel Paccard and Jacques Balmat, made it to the top in 1786 for the first time in recorded history.

Monument of Jacques Balmat showing Horace-Bénédict de Saussure the summit of Mont-Blanc © French Moments
Monument of Jacques Balmat showing Horace-Bénédict de Saussure the summit of Mont-Blanc © French Moments

Since then, and for over two centuries, Chamonix has welcomed travellers from all over the world. Wealthy visitors were drawn to the resort by its reputation for outdoor pursuits: mountaineering, hiking, climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, skiing and snowboarding.

Mont-Blanc from Chamouni painting by Jean Dubois (early 20th C)
Mont-Blanc from Chamouni painting by Jean Dubois (early 20th C)

Originally located on the Duke of Savoy‘s lands, the Chamonix commune became French on 4 April 1860. It took the name Chamonix-Mont-Blanc on the 21st of November, 1921.

 

An imperial visit!

On 2 September 1860 (a couple of months after Chamonix became French), Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie arrived at Chamonix for a 2-day state visit. The following morning, the imperial couple got up early to climb the Montenvers summit. From there, they admired the Mer de Glace. The imperial visit contributed to the fame of the village.

Napoleon III at the Mer de Glace in September 1860
Napoleon III at the Mer de Glace in September 1860

But Chamonix owes its fantastic development as a skiing resort to the first Winter Olympic Games held in 1924.

Chamonix from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Chamonix from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

 

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: a dynamic resort!

In the town centre of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
In the town centre of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments

The population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc accounts for approximately 9,000.

However, it faces crucial demographic variations depending on the tourist seasons:

  • 60,000 visitors enter the Valley of Chamonix in Winter and
  • more than 100,000 in Summer.

Apart from admiring the former palaces that once hosted famous visitors, there is little interest in the town.

Check out the delicate balcony railings here and there, Art Nouveau architecture reminiscent of the Belle Epoque era.

Balconies in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
Balconies in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
The parish church of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
The parish church of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
Mont-Blanc from the town centre of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
Mont-Blanc from the town centre of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments

Honestly, the magnificent surroundings make Chamonix so much worth a visit.

Since 1965, Chamonix has been linked to Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley by the 11.6 km long Mont Blanc Tunnel.

It runs beneath the mountain just under the Aiguille du Midi. Alongside the St Gotthard and the Fréjus tunnels, it ranks as one of the significant trans-Alpine transport routes.

 

Day Trip from Geneva

Embark on a scenic journey through the picturesque Arve Valley from Geneva to the charming resort of Chamonix, nestled at the foot of Mont-Blanc, Europe’s highest peak.

Prepare to be awe-struck by the breathtaking panoramas as you traverse dramatic mountain landscapes by train and cable car.

The day’s highlights include:

  • Marvelling at the mesmerizing beauty of the Arve Valley during a delightful drive to Chamonix,
  • Witnessing awe-inspiring vistas of Mont-Blanc from the summit of Aiguille du Midi and
  • Experiencing an unforgettable ride on the world-famous cable car.

Get ready for a day of unforgettable natural wonders and exhilarating adventures in the heart of the Alps.

 

 

Explore the Mer de Glace with the Montenvers Railway

The Montenvers train arrives at the Mer de Glace © French Moments
The Montenvers train arrives at the Mer de Glace © French Moments

The Montenvers mountain railway (Chemin de fer du Montenvers) is a train service that departs from Chamonix and goes up to the Montenvers Hotel (1.913 m). The line is 5.1 km long, and trains take 20 minutes, running at 14 to 20 kph.

Onboard, you can admire the beautiful mountain landscape dominating Chamonix’s valley.

View of the Chamonix valley from the Montenvers train © French Moments
View of the Chamonix valley from the Montenvers train © French Moments
Aboard the Montenvers Train © French Moments
Aboard the Montenvers Train © French Moments
Climbing to Montenvers © French Moments
Climbing to Montenvers © French Moments
Chamonix from the Montenvers train © French Moments
Chamonix from the Montenvers train © French Moments
The Dru Needle from the Montenvers train © French Moments
The Dru Needle from the Montenvers train © French Moments

The inauguration of the first section of the line took place in 1909. Visitors embarked on trains pulled by steam locomotives. Until the railway line was electrified in 1953.

One of the former locomotives of the Montenvers Train © French Moments
One of the former locomotives of the Montenvers Train © French Moments

 

A breathtaking panorama!

On arrival at the Montenvers upper station, visitors can opt for a 20-minute walk or a short gondola ride down into an ice cave carved out of the Mer de Glace (in summer only).

The gondolas on their way down to the Mer de Glace © French Moments
The gondolas on their way down to the Mer de Glace © French Moments
The Montenvers Train at the upper station © French Moments
The Montenvers Train at the upper station © French Moments
The site of Montenvers © French Moments
The site of Montenvers © French Moments

The panorama at Montenvers is exceptional, with the Mer de Glace and the impressive “needle” of the Drus.

The Mer de Glace (literally Sea of Ice) is a 7 km long and 200 metres deep glacier. It is the longest glacier in France.

The view of the Mer de Glace from Montenvers © French Moments
The view of the Mer de Glace from Montenvers © French Moments
Mer de Glace from Montenvers © French Moments
Mer de Glace from Montenvers © French Moments
The panoramic platform at Montenvers © French Moments
The panoramic platform at Montenvers © French Moments

Until the 19th century, the glacier, visible from Chamonix, was even longer, reaching the hamlet of Les Bois. It attracted painters and later photographers like William Turner with the 1816 painting “Source of the Arveron in the Valley of Chamouni Savoy”.

Today, the glacier is steadily retreating: at Montenvers station, it has thinned by 190 metres since 1820.

Montenvers and Mer de Glace © French Moments
At Montenvers © French Moments

 

► Read more about my visit to the Mer de Glace on board the Montenvers train on my French blog!

Learn more about the Montenvers Train (tickets, passes and timetable).

 

An unforgettable journey to Aiguille du Midi

Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix Mont Blanc © French Moments
The Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

The journey to Aiguille du Midi is arguably one of the Alps’ most exciting cable car rides.

It is a two-stage journey, lasting only 20 minutes with an ascent of 2,800 m. The cable car first leaves the centre of Chamonix to Plan de l’Aiguille (2,308 m), suspended half the time 500 m above ground.

From there, some visitors prefer to go on a great day excursion to the Montenvers train station and take the train back down to Chamonix.

The cable car departing Plan de l'Aiguille to the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The cable car departing Plan de l’Aiguille to the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

From Plan de l’Aiguille, a second cable car rises without any support pillar, to Aiguille du Midi with fantastic views of the jagged Aiguilles de Chamonix and the upper parts of the Mont-Blanc massif.

 

Aiguille du Midi: a breathtaking view

The Aiguille du Midi culminates at an altitude of 3,842 metres. From there, the mountain view is breathtaking. It embraces the Swiss, Italian and French Alps as far as the Matterhorn and Monta Rosa.

The view from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The view from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Monte Rosa (highest peak of Switzerland) seen from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Monte Rosa (highest peak of Switzerland) seen from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Grand Combin (left) and the Matterhorn (right) in the Swiss Alps © French Moments
The Grand Combin (left) and the Matterhorn (right) in the Swiss Alps © French Moments
At the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
At the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Vallée Blanche and the Italian Alps in the background © French Moments
The Vallée Blanche and the Italian Alps in the background © French Moments
Mont Blanc from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Mont Blanc from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

The Aiguille du Midi (literally Needle of the South) is said to have been called so by the local population as its position indicated the South.

The Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

 

The highest tourist attraction in Europe!

The Aiguille du Midi station has two panoramic viewing platforms, a café, and a gift shop. The Gourmet restaurant named “3842” is one of the highest restaurants in the world.

The cable car station is situated at an altitude of 3,777 m. A footbridge connects it to the central pillar of the needle.

The footbridge of the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The footbridge of the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

You can walk around the central pillar thanks to galleries, stairs, lifts and outdoor terraces. One of the latest additions is Le Tube (the Pipe). The 32 m-long steel gallery allowed visitors to circuit around the central pillar of the Aiguille du Midi without backtracking.

Stairs leading up to the panoramic terrace at the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Stairs leading up to the panoramic terrace at the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
A gallery inside the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
A gallery inside the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The "Tube", Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The “Tube”, Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

 

The ice tunnel!

One of my favourite attractions was this ice tunnel:

The ice tunnel, Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The ice tunnel, Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

Inside the rocky needle is a lift that brings visitors on a final 42 m ascent to the top terrace at 3,842 m.

This is where you’ll find the daring Step into the Void attraction. It consists of a 2.50 m glass room suspended over a 1000 m precipice.

Step in the Void at the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Step in the Void at the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Inside the Step in the Void at the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Inside the Step in the Void at the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
Looking good at the Step in the Void! © French Moments

The Aiguille du Midi is the closest visitor that can get to Mont Blanc without climbing!

At the Aiguille du Midi with Mont Blanc in the background © French Moments
At the Aiguille du Midi with Mont Blanc in the background © French Moments
The summit of Mont Blanc from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments
The summit of Mont Blanc from the Aiguille du Midi © French Moments

 

Above the Vallée Blanche

From Aiguille du Midi, another cable car (summer only) continues the challenging journey for 5 km and 30 minutes towards the Pointe Helbronner (3,462 m) above the Vallée Blanche and Glacier du Géant.

The gondolas above the Vallée Blanche © French Moments
The gondolas above the Vallée Blanche © French Moments

The Pointe Helbronner, marking the border between France and Italy, is served by another cable car descending to La Palud, a village near Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley, Italy.

► Read more about my visit to the Aiguille du Midi on my French blog!

Learn more about the Chamonix-Aiguille du Midi cable car (tickets, passes and timetable).

 

The majestic view of Mont-Blanc from Le Brévent

Mont Blanc from Planpraz in 1982 © French Moments
Mont Blanc from Planpraz – my old photo from… 1982!! © French Moments

One of the best views of the Mont Blanc massif is at Le Brévent. This mountain rising on the other side of the valley is accessible by gondola from the centre of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

It takes only 20 minutes to reach the relay station of Planpraz at an altitude of 2,062m. The site offers beautiful views over the Chamonix Valley and Mont-Blanc. Planpraz is an ideal start for great classical hikes leading to magnificent mountain lakes or down to Chamonix.

The second stage of the journey, also by gondola, transports visitors to the summit of Le Brévent at an altitude of 2,526m within 20 minutes. From here, the view reaches over to the French side of Mont Blanc. 

An adult ticket from Chamonix to Le Brévent (as of January 2024) is a €38.50 return.

Learn more about the Chamonix-Brévent cable car (tickets, passes and timetable).

 

Four Seasons in Chamonix: What to See and Do All Year Round

In the heart of the French Alps, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offers distinct experiences each season, making it a year-round alpine paradise.

 

Winter in Chamonix

Chamonix Grands Montets Winter. Photo by bgodfroid via Envato Elements
Grands Montets in Winter. Photo by bgodfroid via Envato Elements

Winter in Chamonix is a wonderland for snow sports enthusiasts, renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. This season is perfect for those seeking thrilling downhill adventures or serene snowshoe treks. Apres-ski culture is a highlight, with cosy chalets and vibrant bars. Dress warmly (well, this is winter, after all!), and book accommodations and ski passes in advance due to the high demand.

 

Spring in Chamonix

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc © French Moments
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in the spring © French Moments

As the snow recedes, Spring reveals Chamonix’s quieter side, ideal for those seeking tranquillity and the beauty of alpine blossoms. It’s a time for leisurely walks and enjoying nature’s rebirth. Spring skiing can also be enjoyed on higher slopes. This is a great time for deals on accommodation and a more relaxed pace of travel.

 

Summer in Chamonix

Chamonix August. Photo by joaquincorbalan via Envato Elements
Chamonix in August. Photo by joaquincorbalan via Envato Elements

Summer transforms the valley into a lush, green playground, perfect for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The Mont Blanc Massif beckons adventurers, and the valley’s cultural vibrancy peaks. This season suits those looking for active exploration or family-friendly activities in nature. Plan hikes early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and book popular activities like paragliding in advance.

 

Autumn in Chamonix

Chamonix Autumn. Photo by ivankmit via Envato Elements
Chamonix in Autumn. Photo by ivankmit via Envato Elements

Autumn in Chamonix is a hidden gem, with fewer crowds and a stunning display of fall colours. This season is perfect for photographers and those looking to enjoy the natural beauty at a relaxed pace. Autumn also brings local harvest festivals, adding a culinary dimension to your visit. Layered clothing is vital as temperatures vary, and check the schedule for local festivals to enhance your experience.

Visiting Chamonix in each season offers a unique perspective of the Alps, from the exhilarating snow-covered winters to the tranquil, colourful autumns. Tailoring your visit to what each season provides ensures a memorable experience in this stunning alpine destination.

 

Tandem Paragliding Flight in Chamonix!

Experience the thrill of tandem paragliding and take in spectacular alpine views as you fly over Le Brévent, Chamonix, and perhaps even a glacier.

Your adventure begins in Chamonix, where you’ll meet your pilot at the designated meeting point, typically at the cable car’s base. The pilot will then ensure that all the equipment is prepared correctly and provide you with a helmet and harness for a comfortable and secure flight experience. Before take-off, you’ll receive a briefing on what to expect during the flight and your role during the take-off process.

Once fully equipped, the staff will guide you to the cable car, where you and your pilot will continue your ascent to the take-off site. From there, all that’s left for you to do is enjoy the exhilarating flight. Marvel at the bird’s-eye views of the magnificent Mont Blanc range and the breathtaking alpine landscapes as you soar through the skies.

Highlights of this incredible experience include:

  • Flying over Le Brevent, Chamonix, and potentially catching glimpses of a glacier,
  • Enjoy the stunning panoramas of the Mont Blanc range throughout your flight and the unique opportunity to embark on tandem paragliding with a skilled and professional pilot.
  • Brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure that combines adrenaline and breathtaking beauty in the heart of the French Alps.
 

 

Where to Stay in Chamonix: A Guide to Mountain Accommodations

Finding the perfect place to stay is critical to planning your trip to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The region offers various accommodations for every taste and budget, from luxurious chalets and upscale hotels to cosy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels.

Chamonix hotel. Photo by Kiwitanya via Envato Elements
Accommodation in Chamonix. Photo by Kiwitanya via Envato Elements

 

Luxury Chalets and Hotels

For those seeking a lavish retreat, Chamonix boasts several high-end chalets and hotels that offer exquisite amenities, including spa services, gourmet dining, and breathtaking mountain views. These accommodations are perfect for a romantic getaway or a pampered ski holiday.

 

Mid-Range Hotels and Guesthouses

There is an abundance of mid-range options that balance comfort with affordability. Many hotels and guesthouses offer charming, rustic rooms with easy access to the town centre and ski lifts.

 

Budget Accommodations and Hostels

Budget travellers and backpackers will find hostels and affordable lodgings in Chamonix. These accommodations are great for meeting fellow travellers and often provide communal kitchens and lounges.

Chamonix Jacuzzi. Photo by marshmallowbela via Envato Elements
Jacuzzi. Photo by marshmallowbela via Envato Elements

 

Advice for booking your accommodation in Chamonix

  1. Book Early: Chamonix is a popular destination year-round. To secure your preferred accommodation, especially during peak seasons (winter and summer), it’s advisable to book well in advance.
  2. Location Matters: Consider the location of your accommodation and the activities you plan to do. Staying near the town centre can be convenient for dining and shopping, while accommodations near the ski lifts are ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
  3. Consider Your Needs: Consider what you need from your accommodation – such as ski storage, free Wi-Fi, or family-friendly facilities – and check these are available before booking.
  4. Read Reviews: Before finalizing your booking, read reviews from previous guests. This can give you a better idea of what to expect and help you choose the best place for your stay.
  5. Look for Packages: Some accommodations offer packages that include ski passes, meals, or spa services, which can be cost-effective and convenient.

Considering these points and exploring the diverse range of accommodations in Chamonix, you can find the perfect place to stay that enhances your experience in this magnificent alpine destination.

Check out here to choose from a great selection of accommodations in Chamonix, or browse the map below: 



Booking.com

 

How to get to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Mont-Blanc from Salève © French Moments
Mont-Blanc from Salève © French Moments

 

BY CAR. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is easily accessible by car.

  • From Paris, take the A6 to Mâcon and the A40 to Chamonix (this motorway is also called “Autoroute Blanche” – the white motorway!)
  • From Marseille and Provence, take the A7 to Valence before connecting to the A49 to Grenoble and then the A41 through Chambéry and Annecy till it reaches the A40 motorway.

 

BY TRAIN. Chamonix is also easily accessible by train, with regular TGV service from Paris Gare de Lyon to Geneva or Annecy. Take a TER (regional express train) to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains before connecting to Chamonix with the Mont-Blanc express service. Some TGVs can also lead you directly to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, located 20 km from Chamonix.

The Chamonix Railway Station © French Moments
The Chamonix Railway Station © French Moments

 

BY AIR. If you travel from Australia or America (or any other part of the world!), take a flight to the Swiss airport of Geneva Cointrin (88 km) or Lyon Saint-Exupéry (220 km) and rent a car from there. Geneva, Switzerland, is the closest airport to the Savoie region.

 

More info about Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Here are a few links to other pages and sites about the resort of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc:

 

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Discover Chamonix Mont Blanc © French Moments

 

I want to thank the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc for making this discovery of Chamonix, Aiguille du Midi and Mer de Glace such a unique and unforgettable moment!

Gems of Paris by French Moments
About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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