Sightseeing in chamonix
“Just writing quickly to thank you guys for organising a great weekend for us all - still don't know where you guys get your energy. A great weekend was had by all!”
Danny LanyiGoldman Sachs
The Chamonix valley lies at the foot of Mont Blanc. Standing at an impressive 4810m (15,780ft) it is the highest mountain in Western Europe. The mountain has a number of glaciers among which the Glacier des Bossons and the Mer de Glace can be seen streaming down its flanks.
The Aiguille du Midi
Two linked cable cars take you from the valley floor to 3842m and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Chamonix valley and the Alps beyond. It is the second most visited tourist attraction in France after the Eiffel Tower. The ‘ice-cream’ bulge of the peak of Mont Blanc appears to be just a stone’s throw away. In the winter watch skiers hiking the arête marking the start of their decent of Le Vallee Blanche. In summer marvel at mountaineers heading up the surrounding slopes and peaks.
Montenvers
A traditional tram railway takes you from the centre on Chamonix to the base of the Mer de Glace glacier and its ice caves. It is a spectacular setting and was used by Mary Shelley for the momentous meeting of her character Frankenstein and his alienated creature.
Brévent
It boasts awe-inspiring views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi. You can take the gondola up from the centre of town and enjoy a high altitude feast at the restaurant Le Panoramic at 2500m.
Museums
The Alpine Museum provides an insight into the history and background of the valley from Chamouni to Chamonix. Plus there is also a the Crystal Museum which is currently showing the photographic exhibition "Of Glaciers & Men"
Over the borders
The Chamonix valley is flanked by Italy and Switzerland and you can be in either in about half an hour.
You can take a scenic train ride on the Mont Blanc express from Chamonix to Switzerland’s Martigny. The second part is a spectacular trip on a funicular train from the border.
If you fancy a real Italian coffee then you can pop through the Mont Blanc tunnel. The architecture and terrain is very different and the town of Courmayeur offers great Italian food as well as the best in Italian fashion. It’s even possible to hire a fur coat for the day if you really want to look the part!
Market Day
Chamonix centre grinds to a halt on Saturday morning to make way for a vibrant French market. It’s a superb opportunity to sample local produce at its freshest. Ask the Nomadic team about the rotisserie chicken (chicken man)… a Chamonix legend! We love to buy a chicken and loaf of bread on our way up to the mountain and then stop for a picnic lunch after a hard morning’s ski. They wrap the chickens in special foil so they are still warm several hours later. Mmmmm….
