chamonix le tour altitude

Elevation of Le Tour, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Location: france > haute-savoie > chamonix >, longitude: 6.946038, latitude: 46.0027959, elevation: 1465m / 4806feet, barometric pressure: 85kpa, elevation map:.

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Skiing in Chamonix | Le Tour

Chamonix valley ski areas: in focus - le tour.

In order to give you a taste of what to expect skiing in Chamonix, this series will explore the Chamonix Valley’s main ski areas. Sometimes referred to as resorts (although we prefer not to as they’re all towns and villages), a ski area is a focal point for mountaineers to ascend and take on the Mountains in front of them.

Chamonix is blessed with 5 ski areas, starting at the very bottom at Les Houches and rising to the top with today’s focus, Le Tour. Below we’ll explore what you’ll find at Le Tour, exactly where it is and throw in some local tips for making the most of your time there.

GETTING TO LE TOUR

As we’ve mentioned before, Le Tour is at the top of the valley. It sits at 1450m altitude, lending itself to plenty of snow throughout the season. Depending on where you’re staying, the best arrangements for travel are either to drive or hop on the excellent (and frequent) buses that operate across the valley.

Any travel via bus is covered by your ski pass, so don’t worry about digging any change out with your ski equipment to lug about. Le Tour is approximately 20 minutes from the centre of Chamonix town, and less than 10 minutes from the popular village of Argentiere.

If you do decide to take a car, there’s ample parking close to the lift. It gets trickier to park as the day goes on, so make sure you’re there before lunchtime to play it safe. Le Tour is the perfect place to start early and go all day, so that’s even more of a reason to arrive nice and early!

SKIING & BOARDING AT LE TOUR

Le Tour is home to the Balme ski lift, with small cable cars that sit no more than 6 at a time. Before we talk about going up though, it’s worth mentioning that there is an excellent beginners area here - known as the Vormaine area. It’s got a variety of drag lifts and nice wide slopes - perfect for those first few runs. Surrounding this area there’s multiple cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to take (and knacker) the children.

At the top of the balme lift you’ll find another excellent cafe, as well the main chair lift to the top of the Domaine du Balme. From there, there are plenty of options to explore: lovely red and blue runs that mirror each other, some truly awesome off piste as well as connecting runs that take you over to the vallorcine side of the area. This variety means you can spend hours here without doing the same run twice - we get the feeling that some of them are worth repeating though!

In total there’s 19 pistes, with a single black run and the rest made up of reds and blues. This makes Le Tour a great option for intermediate skiers, as well as for big groups who want to split up.

There’s arguably some of the best off-piste here, with a highlight being an awesome run down through the trees to the foot of vallorcine. With the option to either go back up or even hop on the train back into Chamonix town, definitely keep this one in mind.

LOCAL INSIGHT

We’ve shared some useful information about hitting the slopes above, but there’s more insider information about the area worth sharing.

Le Passon near the car park is a wonderful restaurant, and great place to rendezvous after a big morning for a good lunch. The place is quite cosy so for bigger groups it’s always worth booking ahead of time. If you’re looking for some serious refuelling, make sure to try the local tartiflette - a delicious mix of lardons, local cheese and potatoes.

As you arrive on the slopes at the top of the ski lift there’s a great meeting spot in the form of a cafe on your right. It’s rear outside area provides some great views of the mountain ranges and below. Perfect for a meeting point before taking the red back down to the car park!

All in all we think Le Tour is one of the best places to offer all season - with variety, great food & drink options as well as some awesome off-piste there’s something for everyone. If you’re thinking about joining us in the Chamonix this winter, make sure Le Tour is in your plans!

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Learn to ski in Chamonix Valley: An overview of the ski resort

Learning to ski in the Chamonix Valley is definitely the dream of many. However, with the area being as large as it is, there are certain things you should research before you start planning your trip, such as where to go to make sure you are close to the best slopes for your level. 

The Chamonix Valley is a ski resort that extends into many villages .  Vallorcine, Le Tour, Argentiere, Chamonix, Les Houches and St Gervais. The Chamonix ski resort comprises a total of 492 slopes : 61 green slopes, 156 blue slopes, 209 red slopes and 66 black slopes. 

This article aims to clarify which area is best for you. To get started, you will find a map to help you find your way around the ski area, and below, a description of the various ski areas and links to further reading on the individual resorts. 

Discover the Chamonix Valley 

The Chamonix Valley resort has 6 ski beginners areas (marked green on the map), Le Savoy and Les Planards being the closest to Chamonix village. In addition to the villages described below (in order from north to south), holders of the Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass can take advantage of 3 additional areas (marked white on the map): Skyway (Italy), Courmayeur (Italy) and Verbier (Switzerland).

Vallorcine:  

• Ski area: Domain de Balme
• Ideal place for: The area is ideal for a relaxing vacation . 
• Features: 7 km from Argentière, the area offers maximum comfort and relaxation. Since Vallorcine is the last village in the valley, skiers can enjoy a very peaceful atmosphere . The children’s area is very close to the city center . For families it is therefore easy to accompany the children to the ski course and then enjoy the Balme area. Indeed, adults can also learn to ski in Vallorcine thanks to the lessons offered in the area of de Balme. 

Le Tour :  

• Ideal place for: The most popular place in the Chamonix Valley for snowboarders .
• Features: 2.5 km north of Argentiere, Le Tour is located at an altitude of 1453 m above sea level. While also suitable for beginners, Le Tour is especially known for its large off-piste area and is very popular amongst snowboarders. Le Tour also attracts particularly adventurous skiers and snowboarders, thanks to its many slopes that branch off into the forest. 

Argentière:  

• Ski area: Les Grands Montets
• Ideal place for: The resort is perfect for families because it offers a great setting for all levels and all ages.
• Features: 8 km from Chamonix, located at a height of 1,252 m, Argentière is an area that offers perfect slopes for all levels , from absolute beginners to those who want to try themselves in freestyle skiing. In addition to a children’s area and several slopes for beginners, Argentière’s cable car takes you up to Les Grands Montets, a very famous location known for its difficult descents both on- and off-piste.

Chamonix:  

• Ski area: Brévent/Flégère
• Ideal place for : For all those who wish to experience the magic of Chamonix with a view of Mont Blanc , a vibrant nightlife and a central location that is perfect for exploring the surrounding area .  
• Features : Situated at 1035 m above sea level, Chamonix is the most famous place in the valley. Renowned and much appreciated by tourists, the resort offers two small areas for children directly in the town centre and slopes of medium difficulty. Starting from Chamonix, you can ski on two peaks: Brévent and Flégère . Both peaks offer a spectacular view of Mont Blanc . The Flégère-Brévent area offers a freestyle zone, a speed piste and the beginners’ area of Le Savoy. On the other side of the village, you can find the children’s area of Les Planards.

Les Houches : 

• Ski area: Les Houches / St Gervais
• Ideal place for: The area is a great place to learn to ski with a private ski instructor . CheckYeti has a large selection of private lessons that you can easily book online. 
• Features: Les Houches is 6 km from the famous town of Chamonix and offers a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of the Mont Blanc, numerous ski slopes and the famous World Cup run “La Verte des Houches” . 

St. Gervais : 

• Ideal place for: Here, you can learn to ski at your own pace . CheckYeti will help you find the right private ski instructor for you. 
• Features: Officially not part of the Chamonix Valley, St. Gervais can still be considered as the beginning of the overall ski area because it is on the opposite side of the mountain from to Les Houches and the two resorts merge on the peak of the mountain. 

Getting around Chamonix couldn’t be easier thanks to the free shuttle bus departing every 30 minutes and traveling to each of the ski schools’ meeting points within the Chamonix resort. Additionally, skiers staying in the Chamonix Valley are given a free travel pass for train journeys within the entire ski region .

Chamonix ski pass

Chamonix-Mont Blanc valley has 3 ski passes : The Chamonix Le Pass is for use within the beginner’s areas of le Savoy and les Planards,  (Chamonix), la Poya (Vallorcine), les Chosalets (Argentière) and la Vormaine (le Tour). The Pass also covers the Brévent, Flégère, Balme (Tour & Vallorcine) and Grands Montets areas.

The Les Houches Forfait card covers the Les Houches and St. Gervais skiing areas, plus the Mont-Blanc tramway.

The Mont Blanc Unlimited card (marked grey in the map) covers all of the skiing areas within the Mont Blanc region. This means that the ski pass not only includes the Chamonix Valley ski area and its resorts but also another large ski area, the Evasion Mont-Blanc, which, in turn, includes 7 resorts. Depending on the number of days your ski pass is valid for, you can also ski in 2 areas in Italy and 1 area in Switzerland. 

With a 1-day ski pass, you can already use the Skyway cable car (Italy). However, in order to access the area of Courmayeur (Italy), you need a ticket for at least 2 days. Finally, with a ticket valid for at least 6 days, you can even access the area of Verbier (Switzerland). Holders of a ski pass that lasts more than 3 days can also have free access to many leisure activities such as ice skating, a swimming pool and much more. 

What to do in Chamonix: The most beautiful panoramic views

– Cross the border between France and Italy by cable car: At an altitude of over 3000 m, the Panoramic Mont Blanc cable car offers a simply unmissable panoramic view. 

The cable car leaves from the French station of Aiguille du Midi, which can be reached free of charge if you have the Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass, and arrives at the Italian station of Punta Helbronner. Both Aiguille du Midi and Punta Helbronner boast spectacular panoramic viewpoints. 

Once you arrive in Italy and enjoy the scenery, you can decide whether to take the Panoramic Mont Blanc cable car and go back or take the Skyway Mont Blanc cable car, which is also included in the Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass, to reach Courmayeur and then return to France with a shuttle. The shuttle is reserved for those who have a ski pass and is free of charge. 

– Explore Aiguille du Midi: The Aiguille du Midi cable car holds the world record for the highest vertical ascent of almost 3000m . At the top, visitors can learn about all things Mont Blanc at the world’s highest museum, the Musée d’Alpinisme. One of the highlights of the museum is the heart-stopping “step into the void” experience, where those who dare can step into a glass cube secured to the uppermost terrace of the mountain, at an altitude of 3777m.

– Montenvers Mer de Glace : From Chamonix, a train will take you to the glacier at an altitude of 1,913 m above sea level. After a trip through nature with astounding views and landscapes, you can pay a visit to the ice cave. About a 20-minute walk away, this cave can also be reached by cable car followed by a stairway of over 500 steps. A visit to the cave will let you discover the life of the glacier, thanks to its many ice sculptures and an interactive exhibition.

• Learn to ski in Chamonix Valley

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Chamonix Ski Resort Guide

Chamonix, france.

Rated: 5/5 (from 7 ratings)

Nestled in the valley at the feet of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is one place that every skier must visit - with the world's largest lift-served vertical drop. Off the slopes there are many bars and restaurants, and the town is always lively.

The ski area of Chamonix is in the French Alps at an altitude of 1,040m 3,412ft , with 152km 94 miles of marked runs.

Chamonix is part of the Ski Pass Mont Blanc area with access to 952km 592 miles of downhill skiing, with 507 marked pistes, served by a total of 248 ski lifts. In addition to the skiing in Chamonix itself ( 152km 94 miles of pisted ski runs), the appropriate ski Lift Pass will allow you to ski or snowboard in the other Ski Pass Mont Blanc ski resorts of Argentière , Combloux , Cordon , Le Tour , Les Contamines , Les Houches , Megève , Passy Plaine Joux and St Gervais Mont-Blanc .

Chamonix comprises the villages of Chamonix Sud and La Flégère .

There are a variety of pistes to suit all levels of skier ability, from Beginner to Expert.

Snowboarding

Chamonix is very highly rated by Snowboarders and there are a variety of Snow and Terrain Parks in Chamonix.

Notable Ski Runs

The longest possible descent in Chamonix is 22km 14 miles long and the most difficult run is the 'Grand Montets', which is 8km 5 miles in length.

Snow and Weather

When will it snow in chamonix.

The next notable snow forecast is 7cm 3in , expected on 8 April, with around 43cm 17in forecast over the next 7 days.

See our long-range Snow Forecast for the latest update, or   Join our Snow Mail Here

Snow this week

Ski area stats, chamonix ski area, ski pass mont blanc ski area, altitudes & slopes, chamonix ski area heights, ski slope aspects.

Chamonix has ski slopes facing north, south, as well as west and east, offering both sunny and sheltered skiing.

Ratings & Suitability

Ski hire in chamonix, save on ski hire in chamonix.

Save up to 50%

+5% for 4+ Ski Packs

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Ski Hire Shops in Chamonix .

For more information, see our page about Chamonix Ski Hire .

Ski Lessons in Chamonix

To choose a Ski School, and book Group Ski Lessons or a Private Instructor, see Chamonix Ski Schools and Chamonix Ski Instructors .

You can select and book a lesson online now, with our partner SkiBro.

Location and Map

Where is chamonix.

This ski resort is in the French Alps in Bonneville, Haute-Savoie.

How to get there

 by air.

The nearest airport to Chamonix is Sion , 60 minutes drive away.

Geneva , Annecy , Chambery , Lyon St-Exupéry , Turin Caselle , Grenoble , Berne , Lyon Bron and Milan Malpensa airports are all within three hours drive.

Annecy, Geneva and Sion are just one hours drive away, in good driving conditions , so you can be on the piste quickly.

Ski Lift Capacity

The 49 ski lifts are able to uplift 52,660 skiers and snowboarders every hour.

Snow Making

Snow-making is available, on 23km 14 miles of ski runs, with 96 snow cannons.

Season Dates

When is chamonix open.

We don't currently have confirmed season dates, but hope to soon.

Usual opening is early December, and usual closing is Late April.

NOTE:- Ski area, lift and piste opening is subject to Current Snow Conditions .

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Chamonix is a truly unique ski resort. Nestled beneath the highest mountains in the Alps, yet just one hour from Geneva, it offers some of the toughest, wildest and most exhilarating skiing anywhere in the world.

The town also pulsates with life, making it an ideal ski resort for adrenaline junkies looking for a high-octane short ski break, or holiday-makers who are looking for entertainment both on and off the slopes.

Where is Chamonix?

Transfer time:   Geneva - 1hr

Chamonix sits at the foot of Mont Blanc, in the department of Haute-Savoie in the northern French Alps, just one hour’s drive from Geneva.

Chamonix - the resort

Resort height: 1035m

Chamonix is a sizeable town, steeped in mountain tradition and spectacularly set beneath the highest peaks in the Alps.

Its vibrant traffic-free centre is captivating, if a little touristy, and the resort offers an unparalleled range of non-skiing activities.

Chamonix's ski area

Altitude:    1035-3275m

Pistes:       155km

Chamonix’s ski area is split into several distinct sectors, two of which are directly accessed from the town itself, the rest being a short drive further up and down the valley.

Close to the resort centre, a spectacular two stage cable-car takes you to the top of the 3840m Aiguille du Midi , where you can get up close and personal with the peaks and glaciers of Mont Blanc.

This is also the start of the 22km Vallée Blanche route - perhaps the most famous off-piste ski run in the world. Note that there are no marked or patrolled pistes in this area, so a guide is essential.

The only other major ski area accessible from town is Le Brévent , a steep walk or short drive from the town centre. Le Brévent is linked to the La Flégère sector, which is also accessible by cable-car a couple of kilometres up the valley.

These two areas offer a good variety of open slopes with fabulous views of Mont Blanc but from which, depending on snow conditions, you sometimes have to take a lift back down to the valley.

The most famous ski mountain in the Chamonix area is  Les Grand Montets , 9km up the valley above the traditional village of Argentière.

Not only does this area offer the toughest skiing that Chamonix has to offer (both on and off-piste), but it also frequently has the best snow.

Beyond Argentière, at the north-eastern end of the valley, is the small village of  Le Tour , whose skiing offers a gentler mix of open bowls and woodland glades which are also linked to another village, Vallorcine.

On the other side of Chamonix at the south-western end of the valley is the  Les Houches  sector, home to the Kandahar world cup downhill. This is a good area for mixed abilities, with most of the easier skiing higher up, and some longer, steeper runs through the trees back to resort.

Chamonix's snow record

Our snow rating:   ☆☆☆ ☆ ☆

Snow cover can be patchy lower down in Chamonix, but most of your skiing time will be spent at high altitude, where snow conditions are generally reliable.

With its north-facing slopes reaching almost 3300m, Les Grand Montets has a particularly good snow record and is open until early May. This end of the valley is also a known ‘snow-pocket’, with nearby Le Tour claiming to be the snowiest village in France.

Where to find the best snow in Chamonix

The best snow quality in Chamonix is nearly always above the mid-station on Les Grand Montets.

Later in the season, watch out for rapidly changing snow conditions on the Brévent and Flégère mountains, where many of the slopes face south

If you are planning to cross the border into Italy (via the Mont Blanc tunnel) and ski in Courmayeur, note that snow and weather conditions can be very different on that side of Mont Blanc to how they are in Chamonix. 

Where to ski in bad weather

Les Houches is by far the best area to head to in the Chamonix valley in bad weather as it has the lion’s share of trees. However, as this sector can get very crowded in poor visibility, you might also want to consider travelling to Megève (30 minutes away by car), which offers a huge amount of wooded terrain.  

Chamonix for expert skiers

Our rating:   ☆☆☆☆☆

Chamonix is one of the best ski resorts in the world for experts. Much of the best advanced and expert terrain is on the Grand Montets mountain, home to two exhilarating black runs, the Pointe de Vue and Pylônes , as well as countless off-piste routes.

The Aiguille du Midi cable-car also accesses a number of epic off-piste runs, including the famous 22km Vallée Blanche route which is manageable (with a guide) by confident intermediates.

You will also find plenty of challenge (mostly off-piste) in all the other main ski areas, especially on Le Brévent . 

Chamonix for intermediate skiers

Our rating:   ☆☆☆ ☆☆

Chamonix has plenty of options for intermediate skiers, especially those with a sense of adventure.

The toughest runs are generally to be found at Les Grand Montets and Le Brévent , while more leisurely intermediates will better appreciate La Flégère , Le Tour and Les Houches .

Depending on what lift pass you have you might also want to visit Courmayeur (in Italy), Les Contamines and Megève , the latter being particularly good for skiing in bad weather due its huge number of trees.

Chamonix for beginner skiers

Our rating:   ☆☆ ☆ ☆☆

While Chamonix may not be ideal for beginners, it does have a number of adequate nursery slopes scattered around the valley, the best of which is Le Savoy at the bottom of the Brévent lift.

Once off the nursery slopes, however, there are few obvious “progression” runs, with the gentlest options being at Le Tour , 12km up the valley. 

Chamonix for cross country skiers

There are more than 50km of cross-country skiing trails in the Chamonix valley, mostly located between Chamonix and Argentière, though snow reliability can be an issue early and late in the season.

Mountain restaurants in Chamonix

Among our favourite mountain restaurants in Chamonix is the Bergerie de Planpraz on Le Brévent – attractively built in wood and stone with pricey yet reliably good food and a panoramic sun terrace.

Also recommended is the Plan Joran close to the Grand Montets mid-station, and the Crèmerie du Glacier on the home run just above Argentière. 

Chamonix for non-skiers

Chamonix is an excellent choice for non-skiers with a wide range of off-slope activities available.

Most obvious among these is the spectacular Aiguille du Midi cable-car ride that whisks you up to over 3800m beneath the gaze of Mont Blanc , the highest mountain in the Alps. Almost as mesmerising is the Montenvers mountain railway which allows you to visit the famous Mer de Glace glacier.

The town of Chamonix also has plenty to offer including dozens of shops, bars and restaurants, an ice rink, sport-centre, 1.3km dry toboggan run, an Alpine museum and a library. There are also plenty of snow-shoeing and winter walking routes around the resort.

Chamonix's après-ski

Our rating:   ☆☆☆☆ ☆

Chamonix is a lively resort by French standards, with plenty of options to suit most tastes and pockets. Being a large town, however, venues are quite scattered and it pays to know where to go.

A long time-favourite is the Chambre Neuf bar near the station, which is very lively shortly after the lifts close. The MOÖ bar on Avenue Michel is another lively option, with live music.

In the heart of the pedestrian zone, The Pub gets packed with Brits, while nearby La Terrasse (of ‘Blizzard of Aahhh’s’ fame) is ever popular with tourists and locals alike.

For something a bit more relaxed you could try the rustic-chic Le Privilège or the upmarket QuartzBar in the Hameau d’Albert 1er.

Chamonix also has several nightclubs, the biggest of which is Amnesia close to the Aiguille du Midi cable-car.  

Eating out in Chamonix

Chamonix has a huge range of restaurants from simple huts to some of the finest dining in the Alps.

At the top end of the scale, both the Hameau d’Albert 1er and Auberge du Bois Prin hotels have restaurants with Michelin stars. For more mid-range traditional Savoyarde fayre, you could try cosy Le Monchu or ever popular La Calèche .

Other recommendations include L’Impossible , Atmosphère or, for burgers, the MOÖ bar. 

Our accommodation in Chamonix

With more hotels than almost any other resort in the Alps, Chamonix has something to suit everyone and every budget.

We offer tailor-made luxury ski holidays at hotels across the resort, from the atmospheric 4 star  Grand Hotel des Alpes  in the heart of the historic pedestrianised centre, to the wonderful  Hotel Les Grand Montets  in the quieter village of Argentière, a few kilometres up the valley.

Prices in Chamonix start from £1225 per person for 7 nights or £845 for 3 nights, including flights, private transfers and breakfast.

Snow-wise's top tip

A car comes in useful in Chamonix - the buses running along the valley are often overcrowded, and taxis are expensive. 

Considering a luxury ski holiday or short break in Chamonix?

Call us on: +44 (0)20 3397 8450

Email us at: [email protected]

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Croix de Fer de Balme, Le Tour

A challenging but rewarding hike to a remote viewpoint

This route takes you through the high altitude grazing pastures of the Col de Balme and along a vertiginous ridge up to a pinnacle that looks out over both the Chamonix valley and over the back into Switzerland.

Starting from Le Tour car park you can either hike up from the bottom following the trail behind the lift station, or skip the first bit and hop on a gondola followed by a chairlift.

At the top of the chairlift turn left and follow the stony track towards the Col de Balme. You’ll see the grey stone building of the Refuge de Balme on your right and the Swiss border lies just beyond.

Don’t be tempted to follow the trails to the right or left, carry straight on towards the Croix de Fer. When you reach a fork in the path, bear right to follow a narrow ridge that climbs higher and higher all the way to the Croix de Fer at 2,343m. You’ll need steady feet and a head for heights, as there are some sheer drops to the side and the occasional bit of scrambling required to get past a few rocky sections. It’s a very fun path though and the scenery along the way is breathtaking.

Once you’re at the top you can perch on what feels like the top of the world and take in the sweeping view of Valais and the Col de Forclaz over in Switzerland and the Rhone Valley. "Croix de Fer" translates as iron cross, and this is exactly what you'll find at the summit; a cross dated 1984.

The route back can either be by the same way you came up or you can make a circuit of it by looping round the cow fields. Descend the ridge and when you reach the Col de Balme follow the Plan des Reines towards Autanne. This will take you round in a big circle through beautiful pastures to reach the top station of the gondola. You can now either take the gondola back down, or follow the hiking trail that juts off from the left on the first bend of the 4x4 track.

We’ve given the distances and timings as if you’ve walked the whole route, obviously it will be significantly less if you use the lift system in either or both directions.

Worth knowing

If you are planning on using the lift system then be sure to check the timetable first , as the Le Tour lifts are only open during the peak summer months.

Who should go

This is a great hike for adventurous ramblers who don't mind a bit of easy scrambling. Children love it because of the daredevil aspect, but keep a very close eye on them as it is easy to fall in some parts.

What to bring

Hiking poles might be useful for the lower parts of the hike, but put them away once you get to the ridge as they'll just be in the way and may even trip you up. It can be chilly up at Le Tour, it is one of the windiest parts of the valley, so bring extra layers that you can take on and off as needed.

What to see

As well as views of both the French and Swiss Alps, you'll probably also come across herds of gentle cows grazing in the mountains. If you're lucky you might see wildlife such as marmots or ibex.

Where to lunch

There is a large restaurant at the top of the Charamillon cable car but it is canteen style and not very appealing. For a more authentic Savoyard experience you should try the Refuge de Balme, known to locals as the "dragon lady hut" due to the unique approach to customer service that the owner has! The food and the views make up for it though and her rudeness can actually be quite entertaining...

You can get to Le Tour directly by bus , if you want to get the train then you should alight at Montroc and walk for five minutes or so up the road to Le Tour.

Start Planning

Start Exploring

• ski areas & sites
• Aiguille du Midi
• Montenvers - Mer de Glace
• beginners' ski areas
• Balme (Le Tour)
• la Vormaine
• Grands Montets
• Les Houches - Saint-Gervais
• Tramway du Mont-Blanc
• Skyway Monte Bianco
• Skipasses & e-Tickets
• All ski-passes & E-tickets
• MONT BLANC Unlimited
• CHAMONIX Le Pass
• Stay pass 100% pedestrians
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• MONT BLANC Rapidcard subscribers
• opening status & weather foreclast
• annual openings
• frequently asked questions

Chamonix beginners' ski areas

Easy skiing for families and first-time skiers, clos du savoy low-altitude ski area chamonix city-center.

The Savoy slopes (Brévent,Chamonix) Behind the La Folie Douce at the bottom of the Planpraz gondola at the Brévent, it is the perfect skiing area for beginners and is kids friendly as well. 5 minutes away from Chamonix City-center. 1 treadmill and 2 skilifts to access two green slopes. The area is included in the Mont-Blanc Unlimited skipass as well as Chamonix Le Pass. Beginner rates available at checkout only.

Plateau 2000 High-altitude ski area Brévent ski area

Take the Planpraz gondola and access Plateau 2000. 1 funicular, 1 skilift, 4 green slopes. The ski area is included in the MONT BLANC Unlimited and CHAMONIX Le Pass passes. Beginner rates available at the cash desk only, on presentation of proof of ski lessons with an instructor.

Beginner ski area High-altitude ski area Flégère ski area

From the top of the Flégère gondola, the Trappe chairlift gives you access to 2 beautiful green slopes. One of them winds through the trees, but both offer stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif. This area will help you gain the confidence you need while skiing in a mountain environment as the runs are longer than those in beginner areas further down the valley. The ski area is included in the MONT BLANC Unlimited and CHAMONIX Le Pass passes Beginner rates available at the cash desk only, on presentation of proof of ski lessons with an instructor.

Les Planards ski area Low-altitude ski area in Chamonix

Near the Montenvers train station, you'll find Les Planards offering a variety of slopes and lifts suitable for children and beginners. 4 ski slopes for beginners: 2 green, 1 blue, 1 red Lifts: 2 skilift, 1 chairlift Ski levels: children, beginners, intermediates. The ski area is included in the MONT BLANC Unlimited and CHAMONIX Le Pass passes.

La Vormaine ski area Low-altitude ski area in Le Tour village

The La Vormaine Ski Area in the village of Le Tour is the largest of the small ski areas for skiing or snowboarding. Located at the foot of the Balme area (to the right of the Charamillon gondola) but away from experienced skiers, it offers a welcoming, secure and spacious quiet environment, with gentle slopes and the opportunity to enjoy skiing at your own pace. It features four progressive skilift, three wide green runs, one blue run through the forest, a playful area with numerous learning modules, and a boardercross area for the more adventurous. The ski area is included in the MONT BLANC Unlimited and CHAMONIX Le Pass passes. Beginner rates available at the cash desk only,.

2 Beginner ski areas High-altitude ski area Les Houches Saint-Gervais ski area

Bellevue area : Accessible from the Bellevue cable car: Bellevue beginners' area Mont Blanc ski lift: 2 speeds / possibility of 2 people on the same pole to accompany very young skiers Wide, gently sloping, sunny slope

Prarion area : Accessible from the Prarion gondola: Prarion beginners' area Carpet school, chairlift with low-speed boarding Wide, gentle, sunny slope Skicamp area with games, entertainment and nearby toboggan runs

Les Chosalets Low-altitude ski area in Argentière

The beginner ski area is tailored for beginners in skiing or snowboarding, offering a perfect opportunity to discover winter sports, whether for children or adults! Located near the Grands Montents, it features two skilift, 2 green runs, and 1 blue run. The ski area is included in the MONT BLANC Unlimited and CHAMONIX Le Pass passes. Near the Grands Montents. Tel : 04 50 54 03 92

Rates : Adult 1/2 day: 13 € ; Adult day: 16 € ; Adult 6 days: 80 € ; Child 1/2 day : 10.50 € ; Child day : 13 € ; Child 6 days : 65 € ; Senior 1/2 day: 10.50 € ; Senior day: 13 € ; Senior 6 days: 65 €. Free entry for children -5 years. Child entry valid for 5 - 14 years. Snowtubing: 5 € for 30 minutes two slopes: slow or fast, Helmet compulsory, possibility to rent them on site (3 €, single price).

Tourchet area Low-altitude ski area in les Houches

At Tourchet in the center of the village (next to the ice rink) with 2 skilift. The ski area is included in the MONT BLANC Unlimited and Les HOUCHES passes. Tel : 04 50 54 49 60 - Domaine Débutant Du Tourchet, 55 Av. des Alpages, 74310 Les Houches

Rates : Free entry for children -5 years. Full day €20 ; Half day €15 ; Half-day access to small ski lift 8€. GLISSE & GLACE: 1 half-day at Domaine du Tourchet on the day of purchase purchase + 1 entry with skates to the ice rink (to be used within a week of purchase). Single price of €18.

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Whatever your level of skiing or choice of discipline, it is with great pleasure that our ski schools welcome you to their offices to share their passion for the mountains.

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Balme - Charamillon Gondola

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Hiking and mountain biking between France and Switzerland. From the Charamillon cable car, you will meet along the paths the herds of the last breeders of the valley with fabulous views.

The most courageous will go as far as the Aiguillette des Posettes, famous for its fabulous view of all the surrounding peaks. There are also marked mountain bike trails for beginners and advanced riders (see page 38).

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Informations liées

Tête de Balme

Col de Balme

Charamillon

Snowshoeing route of Balme

Ski area Balme - Vallorcine

Domaine skiable la Vormaine

Télécabine de Vallorcine

Parking du Tour - Balme

Chamonix Ski Touring

Chamonix ski tours.

Chamonix Zermatt Haute Route Ski Tour

Off Piste Skiing Chamonix

Chamonix Freeride Skiing

Vallée Blanche Ski Tour

About Chamonix Ski Touring

At Chamonix Ski Touring, we’ve cracked the code on the ultimate alpine experience, blending the adrenaline of skiing with the awe-inspiring landscapes of the  Chamonix Valley . We’re all about backcountry skiing in Chamonix, where the  French Alps  aren’t just a backdrop but the main character in your winter tale.

Our Chamonix Ski Tours are as diverse as the mountain trails themselves. Whether you’re keen on conquering the iconic  Haute Route  from Chamonix to Zermatt, or you’re an adrenaline junkie itching to dive into the  extreme slopes  with our Chamonix Freeride Skiing package, we’ve got you covered.

And if you’ve ever dreamed of skiing the legendary  Vallée Blanche , we are your ticket to this bucket-list experience. Each tour is a unique blend of challenge and beauty, tailored to fit your skill level and thrill threshold.

But we’re not just about the slopes. We take care of the details so you can focus on the ride. From  top-notch accommodations  to  expert IFMGA-licensed ski touring guides  in Chamonix, we handle all the details so you can focus on the adventure. Logistical hiccup? We’ve got it covered.

No matter your skiing style or skill level, we’ve got a Chamonix ski trip that’s tailor-made for you. Our  24/7 support  ensures your Chamonix ski trip runs as smoothly as your descent. And if you’re missing any gear, we’ve got  top-of-the-line rentals  waiting for you.

If you’re as crazy about off-piste skiing as we are, then we know all you’re thinking about are those lines in  fresh powder  you’ll carve this season in Chamonix. Make sure you won’t be too late!

8 must-visit ski touring locations in Chamonix

1. vallée blanche.

A legendary off-piste run offering a thrilling glacier descent amid towering peaks and deep crevasses. Suitable for experienced skiers, this route promises an unforgettable adventure.

2. Haute Route

This iconic hut-to-hut journey takes you from Chamonix to Zermatt, traversing some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery. It’s a must-do for any serious ski tourer.

3. Col du Tour Noir

A challenging but rewarding route that takes you through steep and icy terrains, offering stunning views of the Argentière Glacier. Ideal for those looking to push their limits.

4. Les Houches

Perfect for families and beginners, Les Houches offers a range of gentle slopes and forested runs. It’s a great place to learn the basics of ski touring.

5. Les Contamines

Known for its reliable snowfall, Les Contamines offers a variety of routes that wind through picturesque landscapes, making it a favorite among locals.

A versatile area that offers easy and challenging routes, Le Tour is perfect for ski tourers of all levels. Le Tour is known for its wide-open spaces and panoramic views.

7. Val Ferret

Located on the Italian side of Mont Blanc, Val Ferret offers a quieter experience with scenic routes through alpine meadows and along glacial rivers.

8. Mont Blanc

The pinnacle of ski touring for many, reaching the summit of Mont Blanc is an achievement of a lifetime. This route is for the highly experienced, offering unparalleled views and extreme conditions.

Chamonix - A cradle of ski mountaineering

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Chamonix has been a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts since the 18th century. The town is surrounded by iconic peaks like Mont Blanc, offering a diverse range of ski touring routes that cater to all levels of experience. From the emblematic Vallée Blanche to the classic Haute Route that stretches all the way to Zermatt, Chamonix is a snowy playground of otherworldly appeal.

But what makes Chamonix iconic is also the culture and history permeating every corner of the town. This is where the concept of mountain guiding was born, and it continues to be a hub for innovation and expertise in alpine sports. Whether you’re a seasoned freerider, splitboarder, or an alpine skier looking for your next challenge, Chamonix offers a range of options, complete with ski lifts to make your expedition easier.

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We offer an array of tours that cater to various skill levels. Whether you’re an alpine skier making a transition to off-piste skiing, an experienced ski tourer looking to explore new terrains, or a freeride enthusiast seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush, we’ve got you covered. It’s essential to note that a basic level of skiing proficiency and physical fitness is required for all our tours. Each tour comes with its own set of challenges, and we’re here to ensure you find the one that matches your skill and comfort level.

Your safety is our utmost priority. All our tours are guided by IFMGA-licensed professionals who have extensive experience navigating the unique challenges that Chamonix’s diverse terrains present. These guides are trained to make informed decisions under various conditions. We also provide essential safety gear, including avalanche transceivers and probes, to ensure you’re well-equipped for any situation. Additionally, we offer round-the-clock support to make sure your trip is not only exhilarating but also safe.

Preparation is key to enjoying your ski touring experience to the fullest. We strongly recommend engaging in regular cardiovascular exercises in the weeks leading up to your trip. For tours like the Haute Route, which involves high-altitude skiing over several days, it’s crucial to be in excellent physical shape. While we can tailor some things to your abilities, it’s important to realistically assess your own fitness and skill level before committing.

Our tours are generally designed with adults in mind. That said, teenagers with a reasonable level of fitness and skiing experience are also welcome. If you’re considering bringing younger family members, it’s best to reach out to us in advance so we can discuss and advise you on the matter. Ski touring comes with a set of hazards that we wouldn’t want to expose any children to.

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous regions like Chamonix. If you’re staying in Chamonix, we have the flexibility to adapt the day’s plan according to the weather conditions. For multi-day tours like the Haute Route, things can get a bit more complicated. We aim to adapt hut bookings and itineraries where possible, but it’s crucial to have some flexibility in your schedule.

While ski touring inherently comes with its set of risks, our primary role is to mitigate these risks as much as possible. Our IFMGA-licensed guides are trained to assess and manage potential hazards, making your tour considerably safer than going it alone. We also provide essential safety equipment for tours in avalanche-prone areas.

While bringing your own ski equipment is advisable for comfort and familiarity, we understand that logistical constraints might make this difficult. We offer rental options for essential skiing gear tailored to Chamonix’s unique terrains. Just let us know your needs in advance, and we’ll have everything set up for you.

Chamonix is a highly sought-after winter sports destination, and accommodations can fill up quickly. To secure your preferred lodging, we recommend booking at least a couple of months in advance. For the Haute Route, even more advanced planning is required due to limited hut availability.

Chamonix is easily accessible by various means, including air, train, and car. The nearest airports are Geneva, Lyon, and Turin, all of which offer convenient connections to Chamonix. From there, you can take a train or a short drive to reach your destination.

Chamonix experiences cold winters with abundant snowfall, making it a skier’s paradise. However, mountain weather can be quite volatile, so it’s essential to be prepared for a range of conditions, from sunny skies to sudden snowstorms.

We exclusively offer guided tours to ensure the highest level of safety and enjoyment for our clients. Given the complexities and potential risks associated with ski touring, such as avalanches, we believe it’s crucial to have an experienced guide leading the way. This allows us to adapt the tour to your skill level while prioritising your safety.

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Glaciers in and around the Chamonix Valley

There are plenty of mountains in Western Europe but there aren't many that have glaciers. The Chamonix Valley is lucky in that regard with quite a number of glaciers and most of them are approachable and some are even accessible. The most famous glacier in Chamonix is the Mer de Glace , or sea of ice, which you can visit using the Montenvers mountain train and then there is a small lift that will bring you closer to the glacier. There is a manmade ice cave in the glacier with ice sculptures and light effects. You have to see it to believe it! This is probably the most spectacular contact you can have with a glacier while visiting the Chamonix Valley. The other glaciers can be approached and will give you views from close-up. One of our favorites is the view from the Chalet du Glacier des Bossons which is fantastic place to enjoy a meal while viewing the glacier from up close. Below you will find the glaciers in our database. Click on any of them for pictures, location data and the trails you can use to visit them.

Interactive Map

Use our interactive map to see all the glaciers we have listed

Order glaciers by:

Glacier above the town of Le Tour with the trail to the Refuge Albert 1er enabling close access

Nearest Town

2550m / 8366ft

Iconic glacier with a man-made ice cave accessible using the Montenvers mountain train

1650m / 5413ft

Glacier traveling down and passing La Jonction where it splits from the Glacier des Bossons

1845m / 6053ft

This glacier forms the Miage valley below the Dome du Miage west from Mont Blanc

Les Contamines

2700m / 8858ft

This glacier lies above the town of Argentiere right next to the Grand Montets ski area

1840m / 6037ft

This glacier is visible from downtown Chamonix and an iconic marker of the Chamonix Valley

1420m / 4659ft

Large glacier on the south-western side of the Mont Blanc Massif

Les Houches

2500m / 8202ft

Small and shrinking glacier located below the summit of Mont Buet

2380m / 7808ft

We try to make the trails we present on our website as interesting as possible by combining as many points of interests as possible in a single trail. This way you get you to maximize your time spent. We got many other points of interest listed in the Chamonix Valley and beyond. You can pick a different category from the list on the right.

If you know a glacier in or around Chamonix that is missing from our site, then please send us a message

Other Points of Interest

À Chamonix, quelles stations de ski ouvertes pour le ski de printemps ?

• Refuge des Grands Mulets ouvre et conditions ascension Mont Blanc à skis
• Chamonix Unlimited Festival, la musique électro va s’inviter en altitude
• Un skieur meurt emporté par une avalanche à la pointe Yeld
• Hiver 2024: le Refuge des Conscrits sous 6 mètres de neige

La station de Chamonix compte trois hôtels 5 étoiles, onze hôtels 4 étoiles, vingt-deux hôtels 3 étoiles, treize hôtels

Agence immobilière prééminente située à l’avenue de l’Aiguille du Midi. 

Depuis 1934, Snell Sports est le plus grand magasin de montagne de la vallée de Chamonix.

Compare & Book Online with Chamonix.net

Grâce à un enneigement plutôt bon en altitude, les skieurs devraient pouvoir profiter d’une partie des pistes de Chamonix jusqu’à la mi-avril sur la plupart des domaines, et jusqu’au 5 mai aux Grands Montets.

Alors que l’ouverture des domaines skiables est perturbée depuis plusieurs jours par une météo instable et du vent parfois très fort, les skieurs qui n’ont pas encore fait le plein de glisse peuvent légitimement se demander quand fermeront les stations de ski à Chamonix, afin de programmer encore quelques sessions de ski de printemps.

Les Houches, La Flégère et Le Tour/Balme, Le Brévent et les Grands Montets

Si aux Houches, la fermeture pourrait avoir lieu plus tôt que prévu en raison du manque de neige, les autres domaines skiables de Chamonix n’ont pas dit leur dernier mot.

Les stations de ski de La Flégère et Le Tour/Balme devraient ainsi pouvoir rester en capacité d’accueillir les skieurs jusqu’au dimanche 14 avril 2024.

Le Brévent va même jouer les prolongations puisque la Compagnie du Mont-Blanc a décidé de maintenir une partie des remontées du domaine en état de marche jusqu’au dimanche 21 avril.

Le domaine skiable des Grands Montets devrait, lui, ne fermer que le dimanche 5 mai 2024. Les plus mordus ont donc encore un bon mois pour faire parler leurs carres sur les pistes.

La Vallée Blanche, skier en 2024

Les skieurs les plus aguerris continueront peut-être aussi de fréquenter le téléphérique de l’aiguille du Midi pour skier la mythique Vallée Blanche, jusqu’à ce que l’itinéraire ne devienne trop crevassé ou demande trop de portage des skis.

La télécabine de La Flégère sera ouverte entre le 13 et le 20 mai 2024.

Mais viendra un moment où la randonnée pédestre prendra le dessus sur la glisse. Les marcheurs, qui devront toutefois se méfier des conditions d’enneigement en altitude, pourront profiter de la télécabine de la Flégère entre le 13 et le 20 mai. Une alternative au train et au site du Montenvers, qui sera, de son côté, fermé du 13 au 31 mai pour travaux.

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