Sooner or later, anyone serious about snow needs to head to France to the place those in the know simply call ‘Cham’.
For experienced and intermediate skiers, no resort compares to the big mountain skiing that a Chamonix ski holiday provides.
The Chamonix ski area stretches across a 10-mile-long valley from Les Houches to Argentière. It is home to the epic 23 km-long Vallée Blanche, one of the most spectacular off-piste descents anywhere in the world. Furthermore, Chamonix ski resort is just an hour from Geneva airport... (cheeky ski weekend anyone?)
Every skier should hit Chamonix at least once. So why not make this year, your year?
Like most of France, Chamonix's skiing is at its peak during January and February thanks to consistently great snowfall. While it's arguably the best time to ski in Chamonix, don’t write off the rest of the season!
If you’re dreaming of quieter slopes then avoid a Chamonix ski holiday in February. It’s at its busiest thanks to both UK and French half-terms throughout the month. And with many lofty pistes, it can get a little cold when you’re up high. That's why March can be a magical time to visit, with better weather, bluebird days and great après-ski options too.
Snow conditions in Chamonix
Snow conditions in Chamonix are routinely top-notch, thanks to its high-altitude. This helps create one of the longest ski seasons in the French Alps. The heaviest dumps of fluffy snow typically arrive in January to late February, giving powderhounds the opportunity to experience the best off-piste snow.
Slopes officially open mid-December and close from mid-April onwards, with the Grand Montets the last to shut at the end of the month. But off-piste, it’s not uncommon for ski tourers to still be skiing in May and even June.
Things to do in Chamonix
Get out and explore - 60km of cross-country trails, winter hikes, cycles, and snowshoeing excursions.
Mer de Glace - Board the 100-year-old red Montenvers train behind Chamonix station to visit France's longest glacier.
Ice climbing - Traverse frozen waterfalls.
Paragliding - Soar over the 23km-long Vallée Blanche like an eagle on a tandem paraglider.
QC Terme Spa - Relax in heated outdoor pools with views of Mont Blanc or jump into cold wells in shimmering ice caves.
Restaurants in Chamonix
La Fine Bouche - One of our favourite Cham spots, with oodles of 'cuisine de grand-mère' (Grandma’s cooking!)
Le Bistrot des Sports - A rustic and relaxed brasserie. Pull up a chair and get settled with the locals.
Annapurna - Curry lovers rejoice! Loaded with plenty of Indian classics, it’s a great spot for eating in or taking away.
Le Munchie - The best French and Scandinavian cuisine with Asian-inspired influences.
Nightlife & Apres in Chamonix
There’s plenty of fun to be had with the nightlife in Chamonix.
Chambre Neuf - When lifts close, this is THE place to be for Chamonix's après, with tunes pumping and dancing on tables.
Beckett and Wilde Irish Pub - Once you're freshened up, get settled by the fire with a drink in hand at this cosy alpine pub.
Micro Brasserie de Chamonix - Enjoy heaps of tasty craft beers in this Canadian-owned microbrewery.
Les Caves - Chamonix’s best upmarket wine and cocktail bar.
L’Amnesia - Stay out late at Chamonix’s top apres spot.
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FAQs about Chamonix Ski holidays Your questions answered by our Chamonix ski resort expert
Is Chamonix good for skiing?
Yes, Chamonix is one of the world’s most iconic ski resorts. Renowned for its challenging terrain, dramatic alpine scenery (Hey Mont Blanc!) and extensive skiing across multiple areas.
Suitable for everyone from beginners and families to the world’s top skiers and snowboarders, Chamonix is on the bucket list of every snow-goer worldwide - but don’t just take our word for it. Experience one of Europe’s best ski resorts on a Chamonix ski holiday yourself!
Are Chamonix ski holidays snow sure?
Generally, yes, Chamonix ski holidays are snow-sure within the ski season. Chamonix’s high-altitude ski areas and proximity to the mighty Mont Blanc help ensure reliable snowfall throughout December to March, meaning the higher slopes here remain in good condition throughout the season.
When’s the best time to go to Chamonix?
January to March is the ideal time for a Chamonix ski holiday, as snow totals are at their peak during these months. That said, Christmas ski holidays in Chamonix are some of the best in the Alps—truly worth the trip for families seeking winter magic with Père Noël.
January ski holidays in Chamonix offer quieter slopes and excellent snow conditions, making them ideal for seasoned skiers eager to explore some of the best off-piste terrain in the Alps.
February Chamonix ski holidays are the perfect time for family ski trips, with the half-term school break serving as the ideal opportunity for ski lessons.
March ski trips to Chamonix enjoy sunny bluebird skies, warmer temperatures, and longer days on the slopes - all washed down with a sunny terrace Aperol Spritz. Chin chin!
Is Chamonix ski resort high altitude?
Yes. Chamonix is a high-altitude ski resort, offering some of the highest accessible skiing in Europe. The resort is situated at approximately 1,000m, with ski areas extending well above 3,000m.
Is Chamonix good for beginner ski trips?
Yes. With beginner areas and excellent ski schools, Chamonix warmly welcomes novice skiers and snowboarders with open arms. However, the resort's size and its extensive ski area can be daunting for first-timers. If you prefer something smaller and more beginner-friendly, we suggest exploring resorts like Flaine, Avoriaz, and Alpe d’Huez.
Looking for more great recommendations for the best beginner ski holidays in France? Click here.
Is Chamonix good for family ski holidays?
Yes. Experienced ski families will find plenty to sink their teeth into in Chamonix, with challenging terrain and extensive skiing across multiple areas.
For younger or new-to-the-slope families seeking something a bit easier, we recommend exploring smaller, more beginner-friendly resorts such as Avoriaz and Flaine.
Looking for even more recommendations for great family ski trips in France? Click here.
Is Chamonix ski resort good for expert and advanced skiers?
Absolutely, yes. Chamonix is THE ski resort in France for advanced skiers and snowboarders. In fact, it’s one of the top ski destinations worldwide. Book a Chamonix ski holiday to enjoy steep runs, off-piste powder bowls, legendary freeride terrain, and more. Chamonix is a true bucket-list location.
Is Chamonix a good resort for snowboarders?
Yes. Chamonix is excellent for snowboard holidays, offering plenty of freeride terrain and natural features, along with a vast array of board-friendly runs throughout the Chamonix ski area.
Is Chamonix ski resort easy to get to?
Yes. Chamonix is one of the easiest major ski resorts in Europe to access, making it perfect for ski weekends and short breaks. Geneva Airport is the nearest airport, about 1 to 1.5 hours away by coach or private transfer.
Are Chamonix ski holidays good for non-skiers?
Yes, Chamonix is undoubtedly one of the world’s best ski resorts for non-skiers, offering extensive hiking and ice caves to explore, mountain railways and stunning viewpoints, spas and saunas, and numerous luxury shops and restaurants.
Hotels & Apartments in Chamonix
Our top recommended hotels and apartments. To find the perfect one for you, speak to one of our specialists
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