Have you ever heard of a place so beautiful… you daydream about it for over a decade?
That’s Chamonix, France for my husband, Rob!
I’m not exaggerating – Rob first visited the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc area on a skiing trip in 2009, even before we met. Ever since then, he hasn’t stopped raving about the dramatic scenery. His vivid descriptions of the soaring peaks, charming alpine towns, and thrilling ski runs painted such a captivating picture that I, too, began to dream about visiting this area.
When we finally got to visit together, I was beyond excited. The moment I stepped foot in Chamonix, I understood why this the resort town located at the base of Mont Blanc mountain range had left such an indelible mark on him.
This jewel nestled in the French Alps is a place where the mountains seem to touch the sky, and where the air is crisp with the promise of adventure.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a leisurely explorer, this iconic town offers an intoxicating blend of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and culinary delights.
Here are just a few of our recommendations of things to do in Chamonix and the Mont-Blanc Natural Resort:
Things to do Chamonix
For Scenic Explorers
– Aiguille du Midi
A visit to the Aiguille du Midi is unforgettable. Ascending to 3,842 meters (12,605 ft), the cable car offers an exhilarating ride and stunning panoramic views of the mighty Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe.
To make the most of your visit, check the weather forecast and the Chamonix summit webcam a few days in advance to ensure clear skies and optimal visibility.
– Montenvers Train
Take the historic cogwheel train from Chamonix at 1,035 meters (3,395 ft) to the Montenvers station at 1,913 meters (6,276 ft). The 20-minute journey winds through the valley and offers breathtaking valley views that set the stage for the adventure ahead.
– Mer de Glace
At the end of the Montenvers train ride, you’ll arrive at the Mer de Glace, France’s longest and largest glacier at 7 km (4.3 mi) and 200 m (660 ft) deep. From there, you can take a gondola down to explore the ice cave and marvel at the striking blue ice. It’s a spectacular and sobering sight that highlights both nature’s power and fragility.
– Brévent Cable Car
Ride the cable car up to Le Brévent for stunning panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the peaks. From here, you can access various hiking trails, whether you’re after a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike.
For Gourmet Foodies
– Savoyard Cuisine
Indulge in fondue, raclette, and tartiflette—iconic dishes that define Savoyard cuisine, hailing from the Savoie region to which Chamonix belongs. Here’s a quick primer on what each dish is all about:
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- Fondue: Melted cheese blend with garlic, white wine, and seasonings that is usually served with crusty bread, veggies, and fruits. It’s a fun communal comfort dish.
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- Raclette: Melted Raclette cheese scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats. It’s great as a light dinner perfect with a good glass of wine or cider.
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- Tartiflette: Layers of sautéed potatoes, onions, and lardons (bacon) topped with melted Reblochon cheese. This dish is a decadent alpine classic, reminiscent of a creamy potato gratin with a savory bacon twist.
– Local Cheese
Don’t miss the opportunity to try a variety of local cheeses such as Beaufort, Abondance, Chevrotin, and Tomme de Savoie. Each cheese offers a rich, distinctive flavor that beautifully reflects the region’s alpine environment. You should definitely add this to your must-try things to do in Chamonix.
– Après-Ski
After a day on the mountains or the slopes, unwind at an après-ski bar where you can enjoy a hot chocolate or a glass of wine in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. This cherished tradition is all about relaxing and socializing after skiing, and Chamonix offers a diverse array of high-quality restaurants and bars. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a casual drink, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste.
For Summer Sports Enthusiasts
– Hiking and Walking Trails
Explore the numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Lac Bleu is a popular hike around Plan d’Aigulle du Midi while the Lac Blanc trail offers stunning views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks.
– Mountain Biking
Another popular thing to do in Chamonix is mountain biking, as the region offers various trails, from easy routes to more challenging downhill tracks.
– Paragliding
For those seeking a thrill, paragliding over Chamonix is an unforgettable experience, providing a bird’s-eye view of the majestic landscape.
– Luge Alpine Coaster
A fun activity for all ages, it features a 1,300m (0.8 mi) long track with jumps, turns and 540° twists. This toboggan ride twists and turns through the alpine scenery and is actually open year-round.
– Tour du Mont Blanc
For avid hikers, the Tour du Mont Blanc trail is a must-do. This famous 170 km (105 mi) long-distance trek offers incredible views and a chance to traverse the stunning landscapes around the Mont Blanc massif in France, Italy, and Switzerland. The full trail usually takes 7-10 days and can be hiked in its entirety or in parts.
For Winter Sports Adventurers
– Skiing and Snowboarding
Chamonix is world-renowned for its ski slopes, catering to all levels from beginners to experts. Le Vallée Blanche is particularly famous for its off-piste routes.
– Cross-Country Skiing
Explore the extensive network of cross-country skiing trails that wind through the stunning alpine landscape.
– Snowshoeing
Enjoy the serene beauty of Chamonix’s winter landscape with a guided snowshoe tour, ideal for those who want to experience the quieter side of winter sports.
For Relaxation Seekers
– Thermal Spas
Relax and rejuvenate in one of Chamonix’s thermal spas. The warm waters and stunning mountain views make for a perfect end to an active day.
– Golfing
Enjoy a relaxing round of golf amid breathtaking alpine scenery at Chamonix’s three golf courses, with the Golf Club de Chamonix being the most popular choice.
– Chamonix Town
Take some time to wander through the charming streets. You’ll find yourself drawn to the quaint shops and cozy cafes. I spent hours browsing for souvenirs and indulging in delicious pastries.
The town’s vibe is a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation. We also loved that the main center is car-free, making it a peaceful stroll. Yet it remains easily accessible with ample parking for those arriving by car like we did.
For History and Culture Buffs
– Mont Blanc Alpine Museum (Musée Alpin)
Learn about the history of the region, its mountaineering heritage, and the development of Chamonix as a world-renowned ski resort. It is currently under renovation, but will reopen sometime in 2025.
– Church of Saint-Michel
This historic church, classified as a historical monument since 1979, is a key Chamonix landmark. Built on the site of a church from 1119, the current structure dates from 1702, with renovations in the 19th and 20th centuries. Located near the Chamonix Tourist Office and Maison de la Montagne, it’s also the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) trail running race’s finish line.
– Espace Tairraz Crystal Museum
Discover the fascinating world of minerals and crystals at the Espace Tairraz Crystal Museum. It’s a hidden gem that showcases the beauty and diversity of natural crystals found in the region.
For Adventure Junkies
– Rock Climbing
With numerous climbing spots suitable for all levels, Chamonix is a paradise for climbers. Guided tours and climbing schools are available for beginners.
– Ice Climbing
For the truly adventurous, try ice climbing on the frozen waterfalls and ice walls around Chamonix. There are about 20 ice climbing sites, with the most popular being Servoz, Les Houches, and Le Chapeau, which are open from November to February.
Overall, visiting Chamonix turned out to be everything we hoped for and more.
From thrilling adventures to beautiful hikes and charming local spots, it truly has something for everyone.
We left with our hearts full and can’t wait to return.
Chamonix is a place that will capture your spirit and keep you dreaming of your next visit.
Disclaimer: We were hosted by the Office De Tourisme Vallée De Chamonix-Mont-Blanc team as media guests. Please note, we did not receive any compensation to write a positive review. All opinions shared in this Things to Do in Chamonix guide reflect our genuine personal experiences.
