Chamonix - introduction

Sometimes inspiring, sometimes intimidating but always inimitable – Chamonix is one of the few Alpine towns that is too towering in scale to be termed simply a ski resort.

It speaks volumes for the quality of its slopes that Chamonix has become a cult ski and snowboard destination without skiing actually being its main attraction. For Chamonix is a mountaineer's town par excellence.

You can feel the atmosphere the moment you arrive – this is a serious place that demands respect. The town, at 1,042m, is rather boxed in by the mountains looming over it. You look up and gasp at the majesty of the surrounding peaks, dominated by Mont Blanc.

This is a town that throws down the gauntlet. And for those prepared to accept the challenge, the rewards in terms of thrill and achievement are enormous. But mouth-watering as the possibilities here are for experts, less accomplished skiers and boarders are also well catered for.

The largely car-free town centre is busy and has a purposeful air. There are dozens of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops, ancient buildings that look as if they have been carved out of the rock and a fast-flowing river running through it all. 

Highlights

• One of the world's top mountain resorts. A fabulous range of very challenging skiing – with some of the best off-piste anywhere
• Stunning views
• A town steeped in tradition
• A number of resorts up and down the valley are covered on one lift pass, so you'll never get bored
• Europe's most exciting cable car to the Aiguille du Midi, at 3,842m, provides access to the famous Vallée Blanche
• Easy rail access, excellent for short breaks

Lowlights

• The skiing is split into mostly unconnected areas, so most people choose a different ski area each day, accessed by free bus or train shuttle service
• The mountains are high, making the weather unpredictable – the best runs can suddenly be closed (although that can mean wonderful snow the following day)
• Queuing bottlenecks can appear in the lift system. We think a few more quality mountain restaurants would not go amiss, either.