Chamonix Key Attractions

Chamonix lies in a spectacular valley in the French Alps, beneath the mighty Mont Blanc - Europes highest peak and as well as being Frances oldest and largest ski resort, it has several noteworthy attractions. The skiing here is some of the best in the world, with extremely lofty peaks allowing above tree line skiing and some superb hiking in the summer. Photographers will have a field day at the many amazing vantage points, while the glacial ice cave and the Alpine Museum add alternative sightseeing options.

Aiguille du Midi

One of Chamonixs star attractions, the Aiguille du Midi rock rises above the snowfields and glaciers and is a major tourist attraction. Located just near Mont Blanc and Chamonix, the rock is topped by a lofty spire, features viewing platforms and is accessible by cable car. Cable cars run from Chamonix up to Aiguille du Midi in two stages, with the second stage being somewhat of a heart-stopper. The peak of Mont Blanc isnt much higher and the views of the valley, glacier and the French and Italian Alps are breathtaking.

Grotte de la Mer de Glace

The Mer de Glace (sea of ice) is Europes second-longest glacier at nine miles and is another major attraction in the area. In addition, the ice cave (Grotte) is carved out of the ice every year and can be visited via the ancient rack-and-pinion railway. Interior temperatures of the cave are just below freezing.

Hiking

In July, when the last of the snows have melted, hiking is the main theme of the Chamonix resort and is almost as popular as the skiing. There are several world-class hikes around Mont Blanc and the cable cars and ski lifts are still operational at this time to provide easy access. Two popular hikes go between Le Brevent and la Flegere, and between Mer de Glace and Plan de l'Aguille. The glaciers are still here in the summertime of course and many excellent nearby trails give amazing views of them. The following glaciers have great hikes: Glacier des Bossons, Glacier d'Argentiere, Glacier de Trient and Glacier de Bionnassay.

Muse Alpin

Located in the town of Chamonix, Muse Alpin (Alpine Museum) is housed within a former grand Chamonix hotel and retells the story of mountain climbing and other alpine sports in Chamonix through fascinating photos, lithographs and artefacts. You can find Muse Alpin off Avenue Michel Croz.

Skiing

Most people come to Chamonix for the skiing and it has the reputation of being one of the worlds foremost resorts. There are nearly 100 miles of runs here for all difficulties and ages, while another 400 miles are available in the region. Chamonix also has the longest slope in the world at 13 miles and the worlds highest ski point at over 9,000 feet. The ski instructors at Chamonix number in their hundreds and are some of the most skilled on the planet, while ski facilities for childdren are also great. A breakdown of the regions ski areas include: Le Brevent and la Flegere, aimed at less experienced skiers with easy access from town; Les Houches, low-altitude skiing and among the best for families; Le Tour, with easy slopes and out-of-bounds powder; Valle Blanche (White Valley), for experienced sliders and known for its glacier skiing; and Grand Montets, extreme, high-altitude skiing, accessible from Argentiere.

Other winter leisure activities

There are plenty of aprs-ski activities and facilities away from the slopes of Chamonix including: mountaineering, ice skating (natural and artificial), snowshoeing and winter walks, sleigh riding and curling as well as indoor swimming, tennis, squash, bowling, climbing and plenty of saunas.