25 Can’t Miss Things to Do in Chamonix France
Are you looking for some activities to add to your itinerarry during your visit to Chamonix, France? European travel enthusiast Emma Braby shares some of her favorite things to do during your next visit, from her personal experiences spending time in Chamonix.
Last updated: April 11, 2024
17 min read
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Chamonix, also known as Chamonix Mont Blanc, is a commune in southeastern France’s Auvergne Rhone Alpes region. It sits north of Mont Blanc, the most famous mountain in the French Alps and the highest peak in Europe. Only a few places on Earth rival the spectacular views found in Chamonix, and you are spoiled with natural beauty beyond measure.
Chamonix is one of the most renowned ski resorts in the world, so if you’re after skiing activities, you’re in for a treat. Chamonix is divided into three ski areas: Les Grands Montets, Brevent Flegere, and Le Domaine de Balme.
The ski runs in all three areas are out of this world, which is one of the many reasons it was chosen to host the first Winter Olympics in 1924. The summers are mild, and the winters are cold and snowy.
But there is more to Chamonix than just skiing. It offers a great insight into the French alpine way of living in the many quintessential villages. There’s a handful of museums to choose from, too, and plenty of restaurants offering delicious and hearty local food. Plus, there are a few nearby places worth visiting if you stay in Chamonix for more than a few days. Let’s take a look at 25 things to do in Chamonix.
Mont Blanc
Peak Season
Summer (June to September)
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Mountain Climbers, Nature Lovers, Winter Sports Enthusiasts, Hikers, Alpine Adventurers
You can’t come to Chamonix and not see the world-famous Mont Blanc. Mont Blanc forms part of the border with Italy and is always covered in snow, which is why it is named the White Mountain. It is also known as the “Roof of Europe,” so you can find fantastic views everywhere.
No matter your hiking ability, there is a wide range of hiking trails to choose from. Ranging from gentle walks, intermediate rambles, and challenging routes best saved for experienced hikers. But if you’re not up for walking, many cable cars and gondolas take you to dizzying destinations.
If you want to conquer the mountain range, the Tour du Mont Blanc routes are the best way to do it. This official trail spans three countries, is 10,000 meters in altitude, and takes seven to ten days to complete. However, there are many shorter routes to choose from, too.
Many much-needed stops offer refreshments as well as overnight stays. If you plan to hike, please be sure to research safety information, as well as weather conditions and the equipment needed.
Lac Blanc
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (June to September)
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Nature Lovers, Hiking Enthusiasts, Outdoor Adventurers, Photographers, Mountain Enthusiasts
Want to see Mont Blanc from a different angle or reflected in the water? This is the place to go. There are a few options to hike to Lac Blanc, but one of the simplest is to start in Les Praz and take the La Flegere gondola. From there, you can walk to Lac Blanc or take a chair lift to L’Index to chop more off the hike.
Head right from the L’Index chairlift station, and you’ll see several maps detailing the trails. The main hike to Lac Blanc took me around 1 hour, although the sign states 1 hour 15 minutes. The track is rocky, and you need suitable footwear.
And for some parts, metal railings assist you in climbing the rocks. I didn’t think it was as tough as some travelers say, according to the reviews. But maybe it depends on the weather that day.
There are two café restaurants sat by the lake, offering much-needed refreshments for refueling. The Lac Blanc is impressive and is an enjoyable moderate hike. But my favorite part of the hike was the L’Index chairlift back down.
Mont Blanc is right before you during your descent, and the views are breathtaking. This attraction can be very busy during the summer, so it’s best to do it early to avoid the queues.
Chamonix Village
Peak Season
Winter/Peak Ski Season (December to March)
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Mountain Enthusiasts, Winter Sports Lovers, Nature Admirers, Alpine Hikers
Chamonix village is the main town with a lot to offer and is busy all year round. This picturesque village features charming and rustic alpine architecture set against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains. When I arrived at the village, I found a café, ordered a hot drink to take away, and sat on one of the benches, soaking up the beauty of this remarkable town.
The streets are filled with souvenir shops, posh boutiques, restaurants offering traditional food, cafes for a rest bite, and much more. You could easily spend a day wandering through the village and what it offers. And every time you exit somewhere, the views take your breath away every time.
Chamonix is also famous for its music culture. If you are there in June, you’ll discover the popular Fete de la Musique, complete with tourists and locals dancing in the streets until the early morning hours.
The Cosmo Jazz Festival in July fills various locations with free concerts offering jazzy tunes of brass bands. My love of jazz made this one of the main highlights of my trip, particularly at the end of the evenings when the bands get together for live jamming sessions.
If you like electronic music, April is the time to visit. The Chamonix Unlimited Festival offers up-and-coming artists to showcase their skills, giving you a party in the peaks you’ll never forget.
Montenvers Railway
Peak Season
Winter/Peak Ski Season (December to March)
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Mountain Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers, Cultural Explorers, Photographers
Riding on the Montenvers railway up to the Mer de Glace (the next attraction on my list) was the highlight of my Chamonix visit. To get to the Mer de Glace, you’ll need to embark on the famous red train, known as the Montenvers railway. It has its own railway station, which is next to Chamonix’s central station.
The funicular train departs from Chamonix, traveling up the side of the Aiguilles de Chamonix to an altitude of 1,913 meters. It takes approximately 20 minutes each way. Despite the height, the ride is smooth and comfortable.
The train has windows allowing you to take some shots of the incredible scenery with the iconic train in the background. You can purchase a one-way ticket or return, depending on whether you want to walk back down to Chamonix.
Mer de Glace
Peak Season
June-September.
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Alpine Explorers, Photography Aficionados, Hikers
Mer de Glace is one of the largest glaciers in Europe, spanning over seven kilometers in length. And this is why the French call it the “Sea of Ice.” Once there, you might feel underwhelmed as it’s difficult to distinguish the glacier from the landscape.
But look for signs of the “Grotte de Glace,” a 200-meter-long cave taking you into the glacier. There are 430 steps to take each way to reach the cave entrance, which might be tricky for some visitors.
Stepping into the cave was nerve-wracking, knowing that your life is in the hands of the Alpine structure. It was so nerve-wracking that I was the only member of my family to enter – they bottled it at the last minute! But I promise you that the magic is inside the glacier, and walking deep into it is worth the heightened heartbeat.
While there, I popped into the “Le Panoramique” bistro, a casual lunchtime eatery with a fantastic terrace where you can enjoy a bite to eat with some remarkable scenery. As you can imagine, waiting times can be long if you don’t book a table. But this spot is where I grabbed some of the best photos of my visit.
Le Glaciorium
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to March)
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Glacier Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Science Explorers, Adventure Seekers
If you’re like me and fascinated by natural wonders, there is also a small museum next to the cave called “Le Glaciorium.” Here, you can learn about the formation of glaciers and enjoy interactive exhibits. And how the towns were built around the glacier and how it influences culture.
Plus, it provides essential information about the impact climate change is having on these natural formations. A glacier indicates climate and every year, the grotto has to be dug out as the glacier moves around 70 meters.
It’s a small museum, so it won’t take long to get through. But it offers an educational element, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty on a whole new level.
Aiguille du Midi
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to September)
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Adventure Seekers, Mountaineers, Nature Lovers, Photography Aficionados
Next is the exhilarating Aiguille du Midi viewpoint that offers a complete panoramic view of the Alps, extending to the neighboring mountain peaks of Italy and Switzerland. The highest terrace is 3,842 meters high and directly views the famous Mont Blanc. This is a must-see attraction for those who can withstand heights.
You must take the Telepherique de l’Aguille du Midi to reach this viewpoint. This sets off from the center of Chamonix. This gondola ride consists of two parts. The first part takes you to Plan de l’Aguille, sitting at 2,310 meters, where you can find plenty of refreshments.
The second part takes you right to the top of the Aiguille du Midi summit, where you can see Mont Blanc in all its icy glory. Remember to bring warm clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the viewpoints are entirely exposed to the elements.
At the top of the summit sits Restaurant Le 3842. Although I didn’t eat here, I wish I did. What better way to enjoy local cuisine at an elevation of 3,842 meters surrounded by breathtaking views? It is open in the summer only, but there is a café open all year round.
Step Into The Void – Aiguille du Midi Skywalk
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Thrill-Seekers, Adrenaline Enthusiasts, Mountain Lovers, Adventure Seekers
Staying right where you are at Aiguille du Midi, this attraction deserves its own spot. Step into the Void is a glass room with a glass floor, walls, and ceiling. The glass box sits on the uppermost terrace at an altitude of 3,842 meters.
It offers a unique panoramic view and is the closest you can get to the summit of Mont Blanc without hiking it. It was inspired by the “Skywalk” overlooking the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
Visiting Step into the Void is free, as entry is included as part of the cable car ticket from Chamonix to Aiguille du Midi. But it is hugely popular, and waiting times can be long.
Opening times vary throughout the year, so be sure to check them out before planning your journey to Aiguille du Midi. Getting there early is highly recommended, and don’t forget your camera!
Pointe Helbronner
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Adventure Seekers, Mountaineers, Nature Lovers, Photography Aficionados
The Panoramic Mont-Blanc gondola ride takes you from Aiguille du Midi to Pointe Helbronner in Italy from May through September. This is only recommended for travelers comfortable in cable cars and at height. The 50-minute journey is thrilling, soaring past the mountains below and covering 3.1 miles from peak to peak.
I didn’t tackle this journey because it scared me a little. But travelers who did said it was a once-in-a-lifetime journey and said they were so glad they did.
Many travelers who enjoyed the nearby hikes stayed in the Torino Hut, a high mountain refuge just over the French border. Maybe next time, I’ll find my courage! But if you have the chance, my advice is to take the ride.
Le Brevent
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to September
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Mountain Enthusiasts, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Photography Aficionados
If you seek more breathtaking scenery, take the gondola ride to Le Brevent. The gondola leaves from the main Chamonix village to the first stop in Plan Praz. Take the next gondola ride from Plan Praz, the Telepherique de Brevent, to Le Brevent’s summit. This is the highest point in the Brevent-Flegere Ski Resort, offering even more views.
At the Plan Praz level, there is an award-winning restaurant, La Bergerie, which serves local Alpine cuisine with outdoor terraces. You can choose from many hiking trails that lead to the Grand Balcon Sud and Lac Cornu. They are well looked after, and most travelers can take these without too much trouble.
For a more challenging hike, take the trail from Le Brevent summit to Aiguillette des Houches. It’s an intermediate hike with a mountain hut along the way, offering accommodation and food.
And to escape the crowds with a tougher hike, a five-minute walk from the Le Brevent gondola drop-off point, you’ll find Plaques du Brevent. Here, you’ll discover the start of several secluded and wild-looking trails offering views of Mont Blanc.
Les Grands Montets
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to March)
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Mountain Enthusiasts, Winter Sports Lovers, Skiing and Snowboarding Enthusiasts
Les Grands Montets is the largest and most popular ski resort in the Chamonix region. With over 2,000 meters of skiing runs and exceptional snow, it is one of the most impressive in the world.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a skiing experience to be had here with mixed alpine terrain, steep alpine terrain, or lower area tree skiing. Some of the skiing slopes sit on the Argentiere glacier. Beside the glacier is a waterfall. It completely freezes over in the winter, turning it into a long, vertical ice wall for brave ice climbers.
Les Grands Montets sits above the Argentiere village. It provides a diverse landscape to all visitors, no matter the season. You are wowed with bright green pastures and vibrant flowers during the summer.
In the winter, the striking snow-covered slopes impress all, which is why it is a popular skiing destination. The snow coverage stays well into the spring, sometimes as late as May, thanks to its north-facing aspect and high altitude.
If you’re feeling fearless, a tandem paragliding flight is available from an altitude of 3,220 meters. There’s also a maintained snow garden that transports you to a snowy season in the middle of summer. Eight main lifts, including gondolas, cable cars, and chairs, service it.
Col de Baume
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (June to September)
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Mountain Climbers, Outdoor Adventurers, Fitness Seekers
Col de Baume is a high mountain pass located between France and Switzerland. It lies on the Tour du Mont Blanc walk and is a pleasure to walk through. Several paths take you over wild terrain and into the forests. This is an excellent hike for those not up for a challenging activity.
Col de Baume is covered with vibrant wildflowers, chatty songbirds, and vast green pastures during the summer. This area offers gentle walking trails that take you past local farms and traditional chalets.
Why not take a picnic and enjoy the tranquility surrounded by the mountains? During the winter, the quiet atmosphere and twinkling snow will transport you to an ice kingdom from a Disney film.
Domaine des Planards
Peak Season
Winter Ski Season (December to March)
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Winter Sports Enthusiasts, Ski and Snowboard Lovers, Adventure Seekers, Nature Enthusiasts
This amusement park is the place to go for young families looking for a place to share fun times and burn off some of that young steam. Just a five-minute ride from the town center of Chamonix by bus or accessible by car, it’s a great place for something different and entertaining.
For young children, there is a carousel, mechanical diggers, and trampolines to enjoy. For older kiddos, you’ll discover looping rides, giant swings, water parks, and more.
The Chamonix Luge Alpine Coaster is open daily every afternoon and takes you on a 1.3km rail track through the mountains. Complete with spins, twists, and thrills, it offers fun for adults and children alike. There is a skiing school, too, which is an excellent place for children and adults to get to grips with their skis or boards. There are four ski slopes for beginners, with slopes for intermediates too. Hire equipment there.
Alpine Museum
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Mountain Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Cultural Explorers, Hikers and Climbers, Family Visitors
The Alpine Museum is located in the town center of Chamonix, in the Chamonix Palace. The building itself is enormous, but the museum only uses the first two floors, making it more manageable. It is home to a collection of impressive artworks that date back to the late 18th century and provides visitors with a history lesson of the valley.
It only takes a few hours to complete and provides an interesting history of the area. As well as the stories of the first men and women who climbed Mont Blanc. You can share the secrets of the mountaineers dotted down in their expedition diaries and maps and books used during their tough journey.
Crystal Museum
Peak Season
School Holidays, Special Events, Weekends and Holidays
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Mineralogy Enthusiasts, Geology Lovers, Science Aficionados, Cultural Explorers
No vacation is complete without a few museum visits, and this was one of my favorites. It exhibits nearly 1900 crystals and other mineral forms from around the world. Start your crystal journey with sparkling specimens from the Alpine region, including Mont Blanc itself. From there, travel through exhibits from Europe and the rest of the world.
During school vacations, they hold special exhibits offering interactive guides from crystal experts from the Chamonix Mineralogy Club. You never know. One of your children might discover their passion for mineralogy. They also host private collections that change throughout the year. This is a great place to learn if you like crystals or anything that shimmers.
Tourist Office
Peak Season
Summer Alpine Activities (June to August)
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Adventure Seekers, Mountaineering Enthusiasts, Outdoor Sports Lovers, Nature Explorers
Local tourist offices don’t usually find their way onto my list of things to do, but I found the Chamonix Tourist Office extremely helpful and crucial to my visit. Trips around Chamonix are usually centered around the surrounding natural beauty.
However, the landscape can be treacherous without current and up-to-date weather, travel, and safety information. And this centrally located office can advise you which days are expected (although not guaranteed) to have the best weather for certain activities.
Not only this, but they offer a fountain of knowledge about local events, some of which are not widely publicized for tourists. So, if you want to do like the locals do, this is an essential stop. The multi-lingual staff were pleasant and valuable.
You can pick up brochures, maps, tickets, and discount vouchers here. There’s also a small shop selling souvenirs and other bits you might need on your visit. Although this is further down on my list compared to other things to do, make this one of your first stops.
Paroisse Saint Bernard
Peak Season
Religious Holidays, Local Events, Sacramental Seasons
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Spiritual Seekers, History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Cultural Explorers, Pilgrims
A small but beautiful Catholic church is next door to the tourist office, offering a quiet and welcoming space for all. This church is dedicated to Saint Bernard, who is the patron of the Alps. Whether you want to light a candle and pray or take a moment out of the hustle and bustle of the ski resort, this is a fantastic little stop-off.
The church is well-maintained and is home to incredible architecture and religious décor. The mountains surround it, and it makes a great photo at night, twinkling away under the stars. They hold regular services that worshippers are welcome to join too. There are other chapels spread throughout the valley, too.
Cascade du Berard
Peak Season
Summer Months (July to August)
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Waterfall Admirers, Outdoor Explorers, Mountain Climbers
This is arguably one of the most stunning waterfalls in the Chamonix Valley. You can take a 45-minute train ride from Chamonix train station to get there. On your arrival at Le Buet train station, take a short and easy dedicated route with clear route markers. I love that this trail is accessible thanks to the mounted metal walkway that clings to the steep rocks. It is a great way to feel like you are hiking into the wilderness without making too much effort. The walk takes you through the forest, with wooden carvings along the way.
The suspended metal walkways allow you to admire the waterfall from above. A relatively steep metal staircase takes you to a fantastic snack bar called Buvette de Berard. They serve light snacks on a terrace overlooking the waterfall at an altitude of 1,429 meters. From there, you’ll discover a small cave, Grotte a Farinet, beautifully lit with lights. It’s small but adds to your trip, for sure. It made a great afternoon and is suitable for children aged four and above, and dogs are welcome, too.
Parc de Merlet
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Nature Enthusiasts, Wildlife Lovers, Outdoor Explorers, Families With Children, Photographers
For another family-friendly attraction, the Parc de Merlet provides a great day out. It takes less than 20 minutes by train from Chamonix train station. It sits at 1,500 meters and overlooks the breathtaking alpine scenery. The forest and meadows are dedicated to wild animals like deer, marmots, and ibex. Here, you can observe these beautiful animals in their natural settings.
There is a café restaurant and plenty of viewing platforms to enjoy another view of the mountains. There are also small play areas, giving children a great way to burn off steam. The staff offers regular and interactive talks, showing off horns and other animal and nature-related exhibitions. Get here from the Les Houches train station, and from there, they provide a free shuttle bus to the park. You can also hike it, but it might prove tricky for families with young children or those with mobility limitations.
Lac de Passy
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Nature Enthusiasts, Outdoor Leisure Seekers, Families Enjoying Water Activities, Picnickers
If you’re after a beach day, head to Lac de Passy. Here you can find a beautiful lake surrounded by beach where you can sunbathe. If you’re looking to sunbathe, this is best done in the summer months. Take a picnic, enjoy the dedicated barbeque sites, and enjoy a relaxed day by the gorgeous crystal-clear waters. It offers plenty of gentle walks, too. And because this lake isn’t as deep as others in the valley, it is surprisingly warmer than you might expect.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can find quad bikes, go-karting, and mini-golf activities throughout the year. During the summertime, the lake also hosts inflatable obstacle courses, and you can hire pedal boats, which is excellent for the whole family. There are plenty of amenities, including ice cream stalls and cafes, and it makes a great day out. Driving there from Chamonix takes around 20 minutes, either by taxi or rideshare, or about 2 hours by train or bus. But it’s worth the travel if you’re making a day of it.
Les Gorges de la Diosaz
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Nature Lovers, Hiking Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados, Outdoor Adventurers
Not far from Lac de Passy is the Diosaz Gorge. Here is another suspended walkway meandering through the gorge. You’ll find a beautiful trail of waterfalls, small rapids, and calm streams. At the top is a viewing bridge to enjoy the water trail in all its glory. It is a relatively simple hike that most people should be able to conquer.
The walkway has some tricky parts, including tight bottlenecks and slippery parts, so wear footwear with good grip.
But most of the walkway is in the shade, which is very welcome on a hot summer day. At the entrance, there is a small gift shop and café. They offer light lunches and other snacks. There is a small play area for children, complete with a sandpit while you wait.
Take A Ski Lesson
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to March), Christmas and New Year
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Winter Sports Enthusiasts, Skiing Beginners, Families Seeking Snowy Adventures
If you’re not a seasoned skier, there is no better place to learn than one of the best skiing resorts in the world. And if you are, why not take a quick lesson to refresh your skills? Alternatively, try yourself at snowboarding for something a little different. Many ski and snowboarding schools across the valley offer lessons to cater to everyone’s needs and skills.
Here’s a tip from online reviews: make sure you specify what language you need your instructor to deliver the lesson. Not all instructors speak English. Thankfully for us tourists, most schools offer English-speaking instructors. Ecoridier is the first ski school committed to an environmental approach, and they have excellent reviews, too.
Maison des Artistes
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August), Major Events and Festivals
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Art Aficionados, Culture Seekers, History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Design Enthusiasts
For an unforgettable jazz experience, make your way to Maison des Artistes, which is in the heart of Chamonix Center. Whether you want to sit back, relax, listen to other artists, or record something yourself, this is the place to go. The bar and seating area is cozy and elegant. And from the bar terrace, you can enjoy a view of Mont Blanc.
I went to a small and intimate evening jazz concert, and I must say, the gin collection is superb, too! My evening there was one of the highlights of my trip. And it’s not just for jazz lovers. They hold concerts covering a wide range of musical tastes and stand-up comedy shows.
Daytrips To Nearby Cities
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
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Cultural Explorers, International Travelers, Diplomats, Gastronomy Lovers
If you’re lucky enough to spend time in Chamonix, you might consider heading out further afield. France, including Chamonix and the surrounding areas, are served by excellent transport links, so be sure to take advantage of them.
Plan it yourself or speak to staff at the Chamonix Tourist Office, who would be more than happy to assist you with planning your day trips.
Not far from Chamonix, you’ll find the trendy city of Geneva or the romantic city of Lausanne, both located in Switzerland, between two and three hours away by train. Stick to France, and you’ll discover Lyon and be spoiled for choice with a wide range of authentic French restaurants. If you fancy something more Italian, you can reach the cosmopolitan city of Milan in just under three hours.
Treat Yourself To A Massage
Peak Season
Summer Outdoor Activities (June to August)
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Wellness Seekers, Spa Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Mountain Enthusiasts, Relaxation Seekers
If there’s ever a good time to get a massage, spending a few days or more hiking through the French Alps is definitely it. You can be sure that after receiving a short massage or spending a day or two at a spa resort, all of your Alpine aches will disappear. The locals in Chamonix are well aware of this, too, which is why they offer some of the best spa options in Europe.
I spent the afternoon at Spa Le Refuge des Aiglons, in the heart of Chamonix and under the colossal Mont Blanc. I opted for a deep tissue massage, but they offer many treatments to suit your needs. Their outdoor space was relaxing and a great way to reflect on my incredible stay at Chamonix. There are many spa houses and retreats to choose from, depending on your location and preferences.
Key Takeaways
So there you have it, the best things to do in Chamonix. Whether you want to take in the spectacular Alpine views or enjoy some of the nature or amusement parks local to the area, there is something for everyone to do. Chamonix is a world-class resort, and it’s best to spend at least a few days here to get yourself into the Alpine spirit.
