Chamonix
“We all had a wonderful time and could not have asked for a better ski experience.”
Steph, Vanessa, Olivia and Tom DuckworthChamonix The town
Chamonix the town is more than just another ski resort. It sits at the foot of Mont Blanc, is the mountain climbing mecca of the world and has been a tourist destination for more years than just about anywhere in the Alps. It is the third most visited natural sight in the world.
It is a beautiful historic mountain town, as opposed to a purpose-built resort, and is a busy, bustling place. You will find it has a real 'soul' - a genuine community. Every Saturday, come snow, rain or shine, there is a large outdoor market selling local food produce, clothing, furniture, you name it!
The lively town is brimming with enough shops, spas, cafes, pubs and nightclubs to make a much larger town proud.
Some 15,000 inhabitants live in the town all year round and Chamonix's summer season is just as important as its winter one. It's dominated by the jaw-dropping beauty of the Mont Blanc Massif - there's no escaping it!
Around the town
There is plenty to do in Chamonix if a day on the mountain has not worn you out. Perhaps you fancy a well-earned spa treatment or a trip on the funicular railway. Or just a browse around the fantastic shops.
The après-ski and nightlife are legendary. From the mandatory Aussie theme pub to the "what was I doing there?" nightclub, Chamonix has them all. Or if you prefer a more genteel evening there are plenty of sophisticated wine bars or places for a late-night hot chocolate.
The quality and variety of food on offer in Chamonix is superb. You’ll find the best burger on the continent and the best BBQ chicken in the world, not to mention icecream that makes even our Italian neighbours a tad jealous. We have selflessly tried a fair few establishments so please visit our restaurant page for our personal recommendations.
The cinema, which shows an extensive number of films in English, the bowling alley, ice risk, galleries and indoor climbing wall ensure there is plenty to do on bad weather days.
History of chamonix
Chamonix Mont Blanc has been a popular tourist destination since two British explorers Richard Pococke and William Windham told the world of their visit in 1741. They described the Mer De Glace glacier as an “agitated frozen river”.
Its popularity grew further after the successful summit of Mont Blanc in 1786 by two locals, Jacques Balmat and Dr. Paccard.
Although the first luxury hotel was built in 1816 it was not until 1860 that a road was built between Geneva and Chamonix. The railway was opened in 1901 and the first winter Olympics was hosted in Chamonix in 1924.
