Chamonix ski resort

About Chamonix

Location:

Chamonix is situated in the Haute-Savoie region of France, in the French Alps. It is bordered by Switzerland and Italy and dominated by the Aiguilles de Chamonix mountain chain, part of the Mont-Blanc Massif that peaks at the top of Mont Blanc (4,810m /15782ft in height).

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Slopes

On the slopes

Chamonix draws huge crowds during peak season, enticing skiers and boarders of all levels. However, its biggest draw is for the pros who'll find some of the planet's most exciting terrain here.

For good skiers, both on- and off-piste options are sensational; but competent snow sports enthusiasts should not overestimate their ability, as Chamonix offers some of the world's most challenging terrain. Snow conditions can vary enormously and lower slopes can be unreliable, but the upper slopes are high enough to guarantee snow cover – as a consequence, the ski season in Chamonix runs from mid-December until early May.

Chamonix does specialise in the spectacular however, such as the remarkable 24km-long (15 mile) Vallée Blanche off-piste run from the top of the 3,842m (12,605ft) Aiguille du Midi – famously the longest lift-served run in the world – and the magnificent off-piste options of Grands Montets, for which an accompanying ski guide is essential.

Away from the downhill slopes, there is an extensive terrain park at the Grands Montets that includes several challenging options for different ages and levels of expertise.

The École de Ski Français (ESF) (tel: +33 450 532 257; www.esfchamonix.com) and independent operator Evolution 2 (tel: +33 450 559 022; www.evolution2-chamonix.com) are based in the town centre, and are well regarded. These companies are especially good at more specialist training, such as off-piste skiing and ski touring. Skiers will have no problem hiring gear, with numerous resort rental shops and hire centres at the base of each ski area.