Discover the Excitement of Chamonix Mont-Blanc

Claire — Tue, 07 May 2013 12:58:13 +0000

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, more commonly known as Chamonix, has a reputation for being the most exciting location for outdoor sports in the whole of France, a reputation that has grown ever since it was used as the setting for the first ever Winter Olympics in 1924. Located in the Haute-Savoie department in the Rhône-Alpes region, southeast France, it comprises of 16 villages that range in height from just over 1,000 metres to nearly 1,500 metres.

Chamonix, France by Leo-setä

So what sports can you expect to find catered for in Chamonix? Here is a rundown of the most popular:

Skiing

Unsurprisingly, skiing is the most popular activity in Chamonix, attracting thousands of people every winter. Ski holidays in France are very popular, and Chamonix is one of the most visited areas. Due to the relatively high slopes, snow reliability is good, and the off-piste skiing is also a major draw.

One of the most popular off-piste runs is the Vallée Blanche. This famous run can be accessed by taking the cable car to the top of the Aiguille du Midi, and is certainly one for real enthusiasts. Built in 1955, the cable car was once the highest in France and it still provides a real thrill.

Mountaineering

Mountaineering in Chamonix is another of the major activities in the region and it is hardly surprising when you consider the dramatic options available here. Chamonix is located near to the Aiguilles Rouges massif and the Mont Blanc massif, both of which contain some seriously big mountains.

There are some very popular routes that attract mountaineers from far and wide, especially during the summer months. One of these is the route up the Aiguille du Dru, also known as the Dru, a mountain located near to the village of Les Praz. The highest summit is the Grande Aiguille du Dru at 3,754 metres.

Another popular mountain is the Grandes Jorasses, the peak of which stands at 4,208 metres. Then of course, there is Mont Blanc itself. The south-facing side is particularly popular, as are the various routes to the summit.

Trekking

The stunning views and mountainous peaks mean that it is hardly surprising that trekking is one of the major activities in Chamonix. There are a number of popular hikes that attract visitors to the region, all of which offer dramatic scenery and are suitable for a range of levels.

One popular hike involves taking the cable car up the Aiguille du Midi to the mid-station and walking down from here to Chamonix. The hike takes about three hours in total and is all downhill, making it a popular option for less-experienced trekkers.

There are also hikes that take in mountain lakes, such as those that go through the Aiguille Rouge nature reserve, and glaciers such as the Mer de Glace.

Aiguille Rouge Nature Reserve, France by Guillaume Baviere

Other Popular Activities

As well as skiing, mountaineering and trekking, another popular summer activity is mountain biking. The tracks around the region are suitable for various levels of experience and they are all well maintained. Other activities that attract enthusiasts throughout the year include rock climbing, canyoning, ice climbing, rafting and even paragliding.

Get Active in Chamonix

If you want to visit one of the most exciting places in France for adventure sports, Chamonix is the place to go. With so many activities on offer throughout the year, there is something for everyone here. And with the stunning mountain scenery and first-class facilities on offer, it really is the ideal place to get active and enjoy an adventure.