Our Guide to Chamonix in Savoie

When the mercury dips, our thoughts invariably turn to the slopes and the opportunity to indulge our cravings for some French Alps-based winter skiing. As usual, the first choice destination for ski-mad Brits will be Chamonix in Savoie, which offers the perfect blend of skiing, climbing, shopping and gastronomy.

Alpine Charm

Dominated by its majestic 15,700-foot peak, the town’s first establishment, offering a room for the night accompanied by a warm, hearty meal, opened in 1770. However, it was Napoleon who really opened the town up to mainstream appeal by sanctioning the construction of safe rail and road access, and the town’s popularity grew further. The appeal of the city and its name was cemented in folklore with the arrival of the inaugural Winter Olympic Games in 1924.

More Than Skiing

Loved not only by skiers but also travellers, climbers, artists and writers, Chamonix is centred around five major ski areas, namely Le Brévent, La Flégère, Grands Montets, Le Tour/Balme and Les Houches. But there is plenty to do in the resort other than ski, and visitors must ensure they take a ride on the awe-inspiring Aiguille du Midi cablecar, which effortlessly takes them over 9,000 feet in under 20 minutes.

Adventures Beyond the Slopes

Paragliding is also an option for those possessing a strong stomach, or for something a little more sedate, catch the Montenvers train from Chamonix to the Mer de Glace glacier. A mecca for romantic weddings, the town even hosts its annual marathon and is undoubtedly one of the most famous skiing destinations in the world – but by no means the only one in France…and even has its own marathon.

A Quiet Escape in Mégeve

Anybody seeking to avoid the hustle and bustle of Chamonix may prefer a visit to the village of Megeve, which is fast earning a reputation as an excellent location for all snow sports. Similar to its better-known neighbour Chamonix, Mégeve also has four main areas of skiing, Mont d’Arbois, Côte 2000, Rochebrune and the quiet district of Jaillet. Offering facilities for skiers of all abilities, the slopes of Megeve are well served by a regular, free shuttle bus.

Family-Friendly Fun

Rookies and families are also well catered for as the village is home to the Waidzai Snow Park, which extends a warm welcome to skiers and snowboarders, with Megeve also offering a superb indoor swimming pool, a climbing wall, two ice rinks and an impressive indoor tennis facility.

Après-Ski Sophistication

After dark, Megeve takes on an altogether different complexion as the sophisticated town relaxes and caters to its rather upmarket clientele, with expensive restaurants and the local casino proving irresistible to many.

All-Year-Round Charm of Annecy

For something truly magical, Annecy, approximately one hour’s drive from Geneva, has recently begun to market itself as an all-year destination, thereby stealing the edge on some of its neighbours who can only market themselves as ski destinations. Situated at the head of a stunning lake, Annecy has no skiing areas of its own, but its appeal lies in its proximity to several areas with first-class skiing, including Le Grand Bornand, Saint-Jean-de-Sixt and Megeve.

Venetian Feel in the Alps

But that isn’t to say you’ll regret basing yourself here as you wander around the banks of the numerous canals, which lend the town a certain Venetian feel. The town has a well-deserved reputation for attracting sportsmen and women of all abilities, and it is easy to see why, with a host of activities on offer for participants of all ages, including cycling, rowing, climbing, trekking and, of course, skiing and snowboarding.

Unique Experiences by the Lake

Swimming is permissible in the Annecy Lake, which is claimed to be Europe’s purest lake, and whatever you do, make time to visit ‘Lovers Bridge’, but be sure to read up on the traditions associated with it beforehand!