What to do in Chamonix? An overview of winter activities at Mont Blanc

The Mont Blanc Valley ski area opened its lifts a few days ago, much to the delight of winter sports enthusiasts. While the massive resort and its multitude of slopes offer an almost endless playground for vacationers, there are plenty of other activities in and around Chamonix that are well worth the trip. From the Aiguille du Midi and the Mer de Glace to the ascent of Mont Blanc, there is something for every type of traveler! Discover our Welkeys Experiences and enjoy an unforgettable stay in Chamonix.

‍

Mountain cuisine needs no introduction, but where can you find good, traditional dishes in Chamonix? We have gathered a few classic spots for you to discover! The nightlife in Chamonix also offers some interesting places to explore during your stay. Your vacation rental agency, Welkeys, welcomes you to Chamonix to help you make the most of all its activities and outings.

‍

Must-do activities in Chamonix

The Aiguille du Midi

Located in the Mont Blanc massif, which is hard to miss when staying in Chamonix, the Aiguille du Midi offers enough activities to fill one or more days. Before you embark on the adventure to this peak, let us share some dizzying facts: it reaches an altitude of 3,842 meters and is the highest of the Chamonix needles. If you take the excursion all the way to the top, you will reach 3,777 meters.

‍

There are several ways to discover the Aiguille, but no matter how you choose to explore it, it is the most essential activity in Chamonix. First, you will need to take a cable car from the town center. Some of our properties are just a few minutes' walk from this point. This first cable car takes you halfway up to the Plan de l’Aiguille. For some, the excursion ends there, with breathtaking landscapes already waiting to be admired.

‍

For others, it is possible to take a second cable car that brings you to the Aiguille du Midi itself. There is plenty to do there: terraces with panoramic views, exhibitions on the construction of the cable car, and a walk through the Ice Cave. But the most stunning activity is undoubtedly the "Step into the Void." To reach this glass box suspended over the abyss, you will need to go up a few more meters by elevator. Plan your excursion now by booking your tickets.

The ascent of Mont Blanc

Many dream of it, but what if we told you that you could set off to conquer Mont Blanc without needing 10 years of mountaineering experience, physical training, or specialized equipment? It is possible thanks to the Mont Blanc Tramway. This is one of the activities we recommend in the area around Chamonix, specifically in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains.

Another must-do activity in Chamonix, this rack railway takes you up to the Plateau de Bellevue at an altitude of 1,800 meters in winter. As the name suggests, stunning scenery is on the agenda. The highlight of this trip is the famous vintage train that transports you through the mountains. Once at the top, you can continue the experience with a walk, or if you brought your skis, you can strap them on and head out to conquer the slopes of the Prarion ski area.

The Tramway's operating periods are short. They often last just over a month, so don't miss the chance to take this excursion during your stay in Mont Blanc. Furthermore, children from the age of 4 are allowed on the train, making it the perfect opportunity for a family activity in the mountains.

The Enigmatorium, a scavenger hunt in Chamonix

The last activity we suggest in Chamonix is a bit more unusual than the others: a scavenger hunt through the town. Experience a Welkeys Moment by participating in this treasure hunt that feels like an outdoor Escape Game.

In 1760, the Mont Blanc Massif became increasingly famous, attracting the interest of a certain Horace-Bénédict de Saussure. This eminent scientist wanted to reach the summit of the mountain to conduct mysterious research. He created the first "Mont Blanc race" to find guides who would lead him to the top. Help Jacques Balmat and Michel Paccard get chosen to participate in the race by finding clues and solving the various riddles scattered along the route.

As you can see, the script of the Enigmatorium is designed to immerse you in the history of Mont Blanc, specifically the very first ascent of the highest peak in the Alps in the 18th century. For 3 hours, you will wander the streets of Chamonix and discover the town from a new perspective. Please note that you will need at least one mobile phone with a charged battery to participate. Book your spot; for about twenty euros, up to 8 people can participate in a single session.

‍

Restaurants for great dining in Chamonix

‍

Gastronomy is a very important part of any vacation, and even more so in winter. With the calories burned on the slopes, raclettes, fondues, and tartiflettes are well-deserved! It is also the perfect opportunity to gather around a convivial table and laugh about the day's adventures. Chamonix is not lacking in restaurants that will delight your taste buds; here are a few of them.

To eat well in Chamonix, a local recommends the Atmosphère restaurant. You can enjoy Savoyard specialties there, as well as a variety of meats and fish. Wine lovers will be delighted by the available wine cellar. Located right in the town center, you can easily walk there from one of our properties. In a welcoming dining room completely renovated in 2021, the friendly staff will serve you in their veranda overlooking the Arve river.

The Auberge des Gorges de la Diosaz, located about twenty minutes by car from Chamonix, is an essential stop on your trip. This inn, housed in a typical Haute-Savoie building, welcomes you in a warm atmosphere. With a 4.5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor, the place seems to win the hearts of travelers, all at affordable prices ranging from 17 to 55 euros.

Finally, the Crèmerie du Glacier is an excursion you won't regret and is an activity in its own right. Built in 1926, this iconic wooden cabin in the Valley quickly became a must-visit stop for hikers. This family restaurant, passed down from generation to generation and located at the foot of the glacier, is entirely dedicated to Savoyard specialties. Cheese lovers will be won over!

‍

The best spots for a night out in Chamonix

For those wondering where to go out in Chamonix, here are our latest recommendations. At the Bar du Moulin, you can enjoy homemade cocktails right by the Arve river in the heart of Chamonix. The staff welcomes you into a cozy, wood-paneled setting with a friendly atmosphere. You can also enjoy flammekueche and charcuterie boards.

Literally right next door, we recommend Les Caves Chamonix. In a stylish, fur-accented setting, you can enjoy a night out and party. With their motto "Eat. Drink. Dance.", we guarantee an unforgettable evening.

Finally, for a completely different vibe, you can head to l’Alibi Bar Chamonix. Open since June 2021, it’s a great place to spend a pleasant time in a comfortable setting. It is located on a street with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.

We hope these spots and activities help you have a memorable stay in Chamonix. Welkeys Experiences are here to entertain you and take you on a journey!

.