Synonymous with towering, snow-clad Mont Blanc and thrilling Bond adventures, the mere mention of Chamonix evokes a dramatic winter sports playground. Beloved by winter sports enthusiasts for decades, Chamonix is undoubtedly Haute-Savoie’s best-known destination — and it has the sophisticated hotels to match. There are a surprising number of intimate and affordable choices, too. Charming chalets or swish hideaways, the best places to stay in Chamonix promise a fabulous holiday for romantic couples as well as fun-loving families and friends.

Keen skiers and snowboarders will be spoilt for choice when it come to hitting the slopes of the Chamonix Valley. The Aiguille du Midi cable car offers one of the region’s most iconic views — rising to 3810 metres — whilst the Sea of Ice glacier is worth a visit in itself, and the peaks of the Alps seen from atop Mont Blanc are magical. Ride dramatic cable cars, zip along thrilling off-piste runs with an expert guide, or try rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking in the summer.

The town’s après-ski scene has become legendary: Chamonix’s regular crowd loves to party. Some of the best places to stay in Chamonix also boast superb restaurants; it’s well worth booking tables and rooms in advance. This Alpine favourite fills up fast during the season!

The Best Places to Stay in Chamonix

For a Luxury Landmark

• Hotel Mont Blanc has welcomed guests since 1849. A legendary Chamonix landmark, the hotel now offers 40 sophisiticated rooms and suites, a Clarins Spa, a swimming pool, a gourmet restaurant — Le Matafan — and a hip bar. A hugely luxurious choice.
• Terminal Neige Montenvers is accessible only by train. A gorgeous Alpine lodge with spellbinding mountain views from its elevation of 6276 ft (1913 m), it fuses the 19th Century charm of its origins with chic, contemporary cool. Brilliant for couples, families or groups, who will appreciate the sleek dorm rooms. Suites are superb.

For Foodies

• Le Hameau Albert 1er has been owned by the Carrier family since 1903, and has a dazzling reputation as one of Chamonix's top hotels. Expect elegant interiors, a soothing spa and two terrific restaurants: Pierre Carrier's two-Michelin-starred gourmet eatery, and the more laid-back La Maison Carrier. A luxurious favourite.
• Auberge du Bois Prin has just 11 cosy rooms with magical mountain views. Managed by the owners, this classic restaurant-with-rooms has become known for its seasonal cuisine. Chef Emmanuel Renaut's team pair superb Savoie cheeses and meat from nearby Alpine farms with garden-grown herbs and vegetables. Savoie wines take centre stage. Lovely.
• Le Jeu de Paume is a chic outpost of the Parisian classic, with big open fires, sink-into leather armchairs and an inviting lodge feel. Kick back at the sauna, hammam, hot tub, swimming pool and spa, or dine in style at Le Rosebud. One of the valley's best restaurants, this spot specialises in seasonal French cuisine with an Asian twist.

For Families

• The Rocky Pop Hotel is a colourful, contemporary hotel with 148 rooms and a choice of restaurants. Fun and flexible, with bunk beds and funky design, this is a top choice for families. South-west of town.
• Le Faucigny offers 28 modern rooms and suites close to the heart of Chamonix. Clad in shades of grey, with white and red touches, the hotel has a chic, trendy feel. Duplex rooms with bunk beds and lots of board games make this a fun family base.
• L'Heliopic is a big, bold hotel with contemporary accommodation and dramatic mountain views. Some of the 100+ rooms have flexible spaces for families, and the kids' play area is excellent for little ones. Savour traditional French cuisine at the restaurant and rejuvenating Turkish steam baths after busy days of skiing. Luxurious and family-friendly.
• L'Hermitage has a classic chalet feel, crisp white linens on beds with impressive mountain views, and two standalone three-bedoom chalets: ideal for family or group trips. Communal spaces are elegant and inviting.

For Golfers

• Le Labrador's flower box-fringed balconies open directly onto Chamonix's golf course, with Mont Blanc beyond. A sure-fire hit with keen golfers, it's also great for summer hikers and winter skiers. The 35 rooms and suites have wood-panelled walls and a cosy feel. The two-bedroom chalet is perfect for families or groups.

For Great Value

• Les Lanchers is a simple, contemporary hotel with private balconies and mountain views. An affordable choice in Les Praz, just a few metres from Chamonix’s Flégère cable car. Friendly and flexible.
• Hotel L'Oustalet is a charming, family-run hotel with 15 traditional rooms at the foot of the Aiguille du Midi. Perfectly located for the slopes as well as the pedestrianised part of Chamonix, this is a top ski choice at an affordable price. Afternoon teas are very special.
• Le Morgane has a Michelin-recommended restaurant, a good spa with swimming pool and modern rooms boasting private balconies. A great-value and vastly under-rated ski hotel.
• Hotel Eden sits just 100 metres from the Flegère cable car, with rooms, family suites and self-catering apartments. An affordable choice for guests of all ages within easy reach of the slopes.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY CHALET

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Geneva Airport and travel just over one hour and 20 minutes to Chamonix by car or bus. Alternatively, you can also fly to Chambery, Turin or Lyon and drive up to Chamonix from there.
• Haute-Savoie is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• The ski season begins in November, but serious skiers can expect the best snow between December and February, and again in early April. Try to avoid the February half-term crowds if you can. If you're looking for great hiking and mountain biking, travel between June and early September. This is a very well-known region, so it's worth booking your trip in advance.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Megève.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Haute-Savoie.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Chamonix