The Chamonix valley is long and dramatic, leading through into Switzerland.  At its centre, the town of Chamonix is overlooked on both sides by perhaps the most dramatic mountain range of any town in the world.

 

At the heart of  the region’s trade and communications for centuries, the town’s prosperity has led to fine architecture and arts.

Chamonix

Apartment Balmat

The Chamonix valley lies at the foot of Europe's highest mountain, Mont Blanc (4,808m), which looks out over Italy and Switzerland, as well as France.   Its old town has belle époque houses which are more reminiscent of Paris than an alpine resort.

 

Chamonix's first visitors were English.  On the 21 June 1741 William Windham and Richard Pocock came to the valley and climbed the famous Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) which now, nearly 259 years later, makes up part of Europe's longest ski run at 24km, and which offers the most magnificent views.  Skiing started in 1893 and received a boost from the arrival of the railways.  The first ever Winter Olympics were hosted here in 1924.

 

Although a mecca for the world's skiers and mountaineers it is not just for them.  It has something to suit everyone, from small children to grandparents—a classic holiday destination.  It has quality and tradition, exquisite hospitality, a large range of leisure activities and superb five-star hotels and restaurants. 

 

Taking the cable car to the top of the Aiguille du Midi (3,847m) is spectacular.  Amble along the golf course or climb to the top of the Aiguille Rouge in the nature reserve of Col des Montets.

 

The community running along the banks of the Arve river consists of several villages and hamlets:

·                 Argentiere, renowned for its top class skiing at Les Grand Montets

·                 Le Tour, which provides skiing for beginners and intermediates at the top end of the valley

·                 Le Praz with an 18-hole golf course and excellent restaurant

·                 Les Houches, south of Chamonix, has a view barely bettered than that from Mont Blanc itself

·                 Servoz is still a rural agricultural village with orchards and old Savoyard farmhouses.

 

Chamonix buzzes all year round with a large resident population, throughout the day and. if you choose, well into the night.  There are museums, libraries, concerts, schools, gardens, a casino, piano bars, three cinemas and several nightclubs.