Best For: Adrenaline junkies who like their mountains big
Globally renowned as the birthplace of extreme skiing (often defined as “you
fall, you die”), Chamonix
has some of the world’s premier lift-accessed steep skiing and
snowboarding—including plenty of terrain that won’t leave you dead on a glacier
if you catch an edge wrong. Located in a deeply cleaved valley near the
trisection of France,
Italy,
and Switzerland,
the town sits in the shadow of the highest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc, and a
tangle of other glacier-clad mountains. Chamonix’s cobblestone streets and
car-free pedestrian center make for a classic mountain village environment
typically bustling with leathery mountaineers and gawking tourists. This is
France, so the nightlife is predictably spirited, and diverse accommodations
range from grimy climbers’ hostels to luxury lodgings.
But it’s the mountains that rule here. The many lifts and trams access terrain
so steep and rugged that many skiers will be wishing for a ride down, as well.
One ticket gains access to the 11 different ski zones scattered discontinuously
across the valley. If the snow is good, vertical drops of over 9,000 feet are
possible. With more glaciers—and their pesky offspring, crevasses—than any ski
area in Europe, skiers and snowboarders who enjoy staying alive should hire a
local guide before heading out of bounds.
Ask a Local
Former France Ski Team member and current freeride world champion Aurélien
Ducroz has lived his entire life in Chamonix. Here are his
recommendations.
Best Digs
Budget: The recently renovated Hotel du Louvre is in the center of town.
Swank: Le Hameau Albert 1er in downtown Chamonix is the only five-star
hotel.
Best Eats
Cheap: Maison Moustache et Filles, a new restaurant downtown, is run by
Charles “the Moustache” and his two daughters, Maxime and Camille. It’s
decorated with an extraordinary collection of old skis.
Gourmet: Le Cap Blanc, one of Le Cap Horn’s three venues, serves delicious
sushi.
Best After-Ski Party Spot
Chambre Neuf, a Scandinavian-influenced bar, has live music and is host to
the best after-ski vibe the town has had in years.
Best Rest-Day Activity
Chamonix is a real city, so even if you’re not a skier there are many other
things to do, such as visit the Alpine Museum.
Chamonix’s Classic Ski Run
La Vallée Blanche starts from the top of the Aiguille du Midi and goes for
16 kilometers on top of a glacier in the middle of incredible mountains!
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