Chalet Astre

Located between the majestic Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve and the iconic Mont-Blanc, the Chamonix valley stands at the crossroads of Switzerland and Italy, a captivating destination that transcends borders. Home to 14,000 residents off-season and a staggering 80,000 tourist beds, the valley is a testament to the allure of its breathtaking surroundings. In 1921, the town of Chamonix earned the prestigious right to bear the name Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, a title befitting its panoramic backdrop dominated by the towering Mont-Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, rightfully earning its moniker as the "roof of Europe."

Encompassing 16 villages, including Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, and Vallorcine, the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley is a community of communes that has evolved into the global capital of mountaineering and skiing since the historic ascent of Mont Blanc in 1786. With 6,000 primary residences and twice as many secondary residences, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has transformed into a year-round haven. In winter, novices find solace on dedicated slopes like Les Planards and Le Savoy in Chamonix, while the adventurous explore the Aiguille du Midi cable car, ascending to 3,842 metres for the renowned off-piste descent of the Vallée Blanche.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc's historical roots as a summer vacation spot persist, offering an array of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, mountaineering, paragliding, canyoning, rafting, golf, horse riding, paintball, and refreshing swims in pools or lakes. Guided tours unveil the wonders of the Aiguilles Rouges reserve, and the Itinerio application, available for rent, guides visitors through seven geo-guided routes and 110 points of interest. The Montenvers cogwheel train reveals the breathtaking panorama of the Mer de Glace.

In winter, the valley transforms into a skier's paradise, offering alpine skiing, ski touring, cross-country skiing, dog sledging, snowshoeing, speed riding, skating, and sledging. Regardless of the season, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc caters to visitors' well-being with spas, shops, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, ensuring an all-encompassing and unforgettable experience in this alpine gem.

Read more about Chamonix Town

Chamonix is often preceded by its own reputation. As one of the most famous ski resorts in the world, it has visitors travelling from all corners of the world to experience the epic runs year after year. The Chamonix town centre, also known as Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, is an endlessly inviting little city with enough going on to entertain skiers and non-skiers alike for weeks on end. For those travelling from the UK, it is fabulously easy to reach. You can drive straight from Calais by motorway and be set up in a gorgeous chalet in less than half a day.

The Chamonix Valley encompasses five main ski areas on four different mountains (with easy transfers in between). You can get yourself a single-resort lift pass or one that encompasses the whole valley. If you go with the latter option you’ll even have access to the Italian side of the valley in Courmayeur. The wider area encompasses 106 pistes at up to 3842m altitude and unparalleled off-piste runs. 

Most of Chamonix’s ski areas are best suited to those who already feel at home on a pair of skis. Beginners definitely won’t get as much out of this valley as those who are comfortable tackling a black run. But that’s not saying Chamonix is unromantic by any means. There is incredible scenery for everyone to enjoy, from non-skiers to experts, and nature lovers will fall in love with the Chamonix in summer too. Ski season, however, often lasts until mid-March.

Once the skiing is over at the end of the day you’ll still find plenty to keep you occupied in town. There is an excellent selection of restaurants to choose from, ranging from Michelin starred fine dining to street food that will line your stomach for the après-ski (and rest assured there are dozens of great bars and clubs to choose from!)