Hit the Slopes Hard in Chamonix

Welcome to Chamonix, France, a winter paradise for ski enthusiasts and general lovers of snow and mountain scenery. It is a gorgeous place, set within the French Alps-pretty sure there isn’t a more idyllic place for winter sport enjoyment. In Chamonix, you can truly enjoy the great outdoors, with a side of fresh mountain air.

Skiing in Chamonix is, of course, the most popular winter pastime and the mountains welcome all skill levels. There are three “main” ski areas, the Grands Montets, Brévent / Flégère, and Le Domaine de Balme, plenty to keep you busy over of the course of your trip. The terrain is diverse, offering you a run down a glacier side or a ride through trees. There are slopes for beginners and there are slopes for the more extreme freeride skiing. Chamonix has been called the extreme skiing capital; the fierce runs are there for the ready skier. If you can handle it, Chamonix boasts some of the steepest lift access available for skiers. For the boarders out there, the mountains in Chamonix don’t discriminate, snowboarders are also welcome to enjoy the intense range of trails. When you need a break from the ski boots, slip on a pair of snowshoes and explore the area in a new way. Plenty of trails will take you through the snowy surroundings.

Don’t be fooled, the ski slopes may be Chamonix’s claim to fame but it is by no means a one season destination. Outdoor adventure can be had all year in this alpine haven. In the warmer months, take advantage of the expansive hiking trails or opt for wheels and check out the mountain bike tracks that run through the area. The fall months are an especially good time to go for a trek through the mountains to see the colors of autumn as they spread through Chamonix. If your feeling particularly motivated, go for the Tour of Mont Blanc, a well-known trail that dates back to the 1700s. This trail isn’t for the faint of heart as it takes 7-10 days to complete. However, it’s an experience worth the effort as you go through three countries, France, Switzerland, and Italy and are privy to breathtaking mountain landscapes, including glaciers, alpine pastures, and mountain tops. Other non-winter activities include rock climbing and rafting, as well as golf when you need a break from the adrenaline rush.

There are several options when it comes to places to stay in Chamonix. Part of the consideration will of course be the time of year you go- campsite options and bungalows tend to be available only in the warmer months. Hotel accommodation is, however, an all year presence and there are plenty of hotels to choose from within Chamonix and its surrounding areas. They range from the very luxurious to the very frill-less (but when you’re there for the outdoor sights it’s all about a place just to stash your stuff and sleep, right?). Regardless of what you’re looking for, you’re bound to find affordable options, whether that’s a chalet or something a bit more in the style of a hostel. So pack your skis or hiking boots and head to Chamonix, it’s a trip that shouldn’t be missed!