For seasoned skiers, the resort town of Chamonix is legendary. Home to the magnificent Mont Blanc – Europe’s highest mountain peak – and the setting for the very first Winter Olympics in 1924, the winter wonderland has attracted the world’s best slope surfers for centuries. The resort is known for its fantastic facilities, and its four exceptional ski areas spread along the valley. This renowned snow sport destination really is a dream location for powder hounds of all abilities.
The town itself is set below the mighty cliffs and icy glaciers of Mont Blanc, making for some stupendous views. Although the valley is known for its daredevil runs, there’s a fantastic range of nursery slopes and cruising pistes to choose from, so even the youngest of skiers can get involved.
But it’s not just about skiing! From nature parks to husky dog sledging, this diverse holiday destination is the perfect base for adventurous families looking to fill every day with some frozen fun.
Winter Activities for Beginners
For tiny tots keen to get out on the slopes, this is the dream location as parents have a wonderful array of schools to choose from. Children as young as three can get lessons from top-class instructors that lead one-to-one and group classes across a number of different beginner’s areas. There are also a few alternative activities for those looking for something a bit different.
Child-Friendly Areas and Activities
- Les Grand Montets – A fantastic ski school that offers excellent daycare. Perfect for when Mum and Dad want to go off-piste or have a romantic lunch in the mountains.
- Les Planards – A great central location.
- La Vormaine – Grab a sledge from a shop in town and get ready for some fun!
- La Poya – Another good choice for a day of sledging
- Husky Dog Sledding – This one’s fun for all the family and is sure to mold memories that will last a lifetime.
Fun for Animal Lovers
To get to know a bit more about the sensational surroundings, it’s worth taking some time to learn about the flora and fauna of the landscape. Kids and adults alike will love a day at one of the region’s animal or nature parks. There are a number to choose from so take your pick and lose yourself in nature!
- Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve – The plant and animal diversity make this a great choice for laidback exploring. The park is open between June and September and closes at 6:30pm.
- Swiss Alpine Zoo, Les Marecottes – Kids will love visiting this reserve; it’s surrounded by a beautiful alpine forest. You’ll have the chance to spot incredible wildlife such as black bears, wolves, deer, owls and much more!
- Merlet Animal Park – For a really wild experience, this a great option. Unlike the zoo, Merlet is a huge open area for animals to roam free, giving visitors the opportunity to spot deer, chamois and ibex in their natural habitats.
Alpine Museum
This museum in the heart of town is a perfect activity for when the weather gets so bad that skiing is restricted. The building itself is rather impressive, and it hosts some beautiful artwork from the late eighteenth to early twentieth centuries. History buffs will find its contents interesting too, as it provides an accurate history of the valley and winter sports in the area. Many will also be fascinated by the collection of books and personal diaries found in the library.
Top Tip: It’s important to note that the museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Le Petit Train
This iconic red and white train is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, trundling around town during the summer months and allowing tourists to get to know the community from a different perspective. It’s a great experience for children of all ages and is definitely a must do for families.
Top Tip: Le Petit Train departs from the post office, Montenvers Train Station and the Aiguille du Midi lift station every 30 minutes.
Where to Stay
Apartment Rubis Aiguille du Midi – A luxurious home-away-from-home, this self-catered accommodation is located in the heart of the city. Complete with WiFi and a terrace, guests are treated to fantastic mountain views, as well as all the essentials such as full equipped kitchen and washing machine.
Chalet Charmilles – Just a five-minute walk from the city centre, this five bedroom property is perfect for families or large groups who like to entertain. Complete with dining room that seats ten, cinema room, games room, terrace and BBQ area, the opportunities for fun are never-ending.
How to Get There
Flights from London to Geneva are an easy one and a half hours, and you’ll find a number of providers that offer a good variety of flight times throughout the week. For ultimate ease, I’d suggest you pre-book an airport transfer to Chamonix with Shuttle Direct. Their friendly drivers will get you to your accommodation in around one hour and ten minutes.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is a renowned leading provider of airport transfers throughout Europe and North Africa. We’ve been providing our clients with high-quality customer service for decades and our experienced drivers will get you to where you need to go safely and swiftly.
NB. Times, places and dates, although accurate at the time of publication, are subject to change.
