Guidebook for Chamonix

Rob And Gen
Rob And Gen
Guidebook for Chamonix

Local Lift Stations and main sites

The office of tourism is very close to the apartment and is a great source of information and assistance for getting to any of the various tourist destinations in town or nearby.
30 locals recommend
Office de Tourisme
85 Pl. du Triangle de l'Amitié
30 locals recommend
The office of tourism is very close to the apartment and is a great source of information and assistance for getting to any of the various tourist destinations in town or nearby.
The Domaine de Balme ski area (Le Tour) is a great departure point for hiking or ski, and is suitable for the less-abled as it has some walks that are not too steep. It is the border with Switzerland.
25 locals recommend
Le Tour
25 locals recommend
The Domaine de Balme ski area (Le Tour) is a great departure point for hiking or ski, and is suitable for the less-abled as it has some walks that are not too steep. It is the border with Switzerland.
Les Houches is part of the Tour du Mont Blanc and the Prarion or Bellevue lifts access some dramatic scenery and wonderful hikes, as well as great family skiing in winter.
30 locals recommend
Les Houches
30 locals recommend
Les Houches is part of the Tour du Mont Blanc and the Prarion or Bellevue lifts access some dramatic scenery and wonderful hikes, as well as great family skiing in winter.
This ski area and hiking area accesses the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve and is the departure for the walk to the Lac Blanc and hundreds of climbing routes.
30 locals recommend
La Flégère
35 Chem. Paul Simond
30 locals recommend
This ski area and hiking area accesses the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve and is the departure for the walk to the Lac Blanc and hundreds of climbing routes.
The 2nd most popular tourist site in France, this is the tallest lift in Europe and is great for sightseeing views as well as alpinism and challenging off-piste glacier skiing. Walking distance.
389 locals recommend
Aiguille du Midi
100 Pl. de l'Aiguille du Midi
389 locals recommend
The 2nd most popular tourist site in France, this is the tallest lift in Europe and is great for sightseeing views as well as alpinism and challenging off-piste glacier skiing. Walking distance.
This is the train to take to get to the popular tourist and alpinist site of the Mer de Glace glacier and the Hotel Montenvers restaurant. It is a brief walk from the apartment.
21 locals recommend
Gare du Montenvers Mer de Glace
21 locals recommend
This is the train to take to get to the popular tourist and alpinist site of the Mer de Glace glacier and the Hotel Montenvers restaurant. It is a brief walk from the apartment.
The "extreme" ski area of Chamonix. Also in summer you can access or view the Argentière glacier from the top station.
34 locals recommend
Les Grands Montets
34 locals recommend
The "extreme" ski area of Chamonix. Also in summer you can access or view the Argentière glacier from the top station.
This lift is the closest to town centre and takes you to the ski domain of Le Brévent. It is also a great place to go for hiking in summer. It is walking distance from the apartment.
82 locals recommend
Le Brévent
82 locals recommend
This lift is the closest to town centre and takes you to the ski domain of Le Brévent. It is also a great place to go for hiking in summer. It is walking distance from the apartment.
The Planards is a small ski area in town centre + in summer it is an amusement park with a luge on rails (that also runs in winter) and many other games for children. It has 2 blue runs with one chair lift as well as rolling carpets and green runs away from the main run for the beginners.
42 locals recommend
Chamonix Amusement Park
351 Chem. du Pied du Grepon
42 locals recommend
The Planards is a small ski area in town centre + in summer it is an amusement park with a luge on rails (that also runs in winter) and many other games for children. It has 2 blue runs with one chair lift as well as rolling carpets and green runs away from the main run for the beginners.
The Savoy is a lovely spot for families with beginners and low intermediate skiers. It has small hills for sledging, carpets for beginners with green runs and a lovely blue run with a drag lift for beginner to intermediate skiers. In summer, it is a nice place to walk the dogs. It is close to the flat - within walking distance. Locals tip -- If you already have a ski pass, you can walk from the flat and take the drag lift to the top of the hill. Voilà - you are now able to walk down a few metres to the Brévent lift !
Teleskis du Savoy
78 Imp. des Primevères
The Savoy is a lovely spot for families with beginners and low intermediate skiers. It has small hills for sledging, carpets for beginners with green runs and a lovely blue run with a drag lift for beginner to intermediate skiers. In summer, it is a nice place to walk the dogs. It is close to the flat - within walking distance. Locals tip -- If you already have a ski pass, you can walk from the flat and take the drag lift to the top of the hill. Voilà - you are now able to walk down a few metres to the Brévent lift !
This télécabine leaves from Vallorcine in high summer and in winter. In winter, if the parking at Le Tour is full, drive over to Vallorcine and jump on this lift for faster access to the hill ! It serves exactly the same ski area as the lift in Le Tour, just from a different side.
Télécabine Domaine De Balme
1 CR de la Gare au Pont Claret
This télécabine leaves from Vallorcine in high summer and in winter. In winter, if the parking at Le Tour is full, drive over to Vallorcine and jump on this lift for faster access to the hill ! It serves exactly the same ski area as the lift in Le Tour, just from a different side.
Access to the Courmyeur ski area, which is available on the Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass. Must travel through the tunnel du Mont Blanc (30 minutes) to reach this ski area in Italy. A fantastic day out - check the weather forecasts, as the weather on the other side of the mountain can be the opposite of Chamonix at times.
30 locals recommend
Courmayeur Mont Blanc Funivie Spa - Telecabina Dolonne
1/B Via la Villette
30 locals recommend
Access to the Courmyeur ski area, which is available on the Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass. Must travel through the tunnel du Mont Blanc (30 minutes) to reach this ski area in Italy. A fantastic day out - check the weather forecasts, as the weather on the other side of the mountain can be the opposite of Chamonix at times.

Essentials

This Casino market has longer hours than the other markets and a different selection of foods with more regional specialties. Go left out of the apartment door, and the market is on your left after crossing the Ave. Aiguille du Midi.
40 locals recommend
Casino shop
535 Rte de la Plagne
40 locals recommend
This Casino market has longer hours than the other markets and a different selection of foods with more regional specialties. Go left out of the apartment door, and the market is on your left after crossing the Ave. Aiguille du Midi.
This grocery store is directly across from the apartment. Great for quick purchases when you don't have time for a bigger shop. Has a selection of organic foods and a very decent selection of wine.
40 locals recommend
Casino shop
535 Rte de la Plagne
40 locals recommend
This grocery store is directly across from the apartment. Great for quick purchases when you don't have time for a bigger shop. Has a selection of organic foods and a very decent selection of wine.
The largest grocery store walking distance from the flat, and the most reasonably priced in town centre. If you have a car, the Super U in Les Houches is cheaper yet ...
131 locals recommend
Super U
117 Rue Joseph Vallot
131 locals recommend
The largest grocery store walking distance from the flat, and the most reasonably priced in town centre. If you have a car, the Super U in Les Houches is cheaper yet ...
This Carrefour market is on the main road into Chamonix, just before crossing the train tracks. There is also a petrol station.
76 locals recommend
Carrefour Market Chamonix
339 Rte Blanche
76 locals recommend
This Carrefour market is on the main road into Chamonix, just before crossing the train tracks. There is also a petrol station.
This Super U has the cheapest petrol in the valley, and decent prices on food.
71 locals recommend
Super U et Drive
956 Av. des Alpages
71 locals recommend
This Super U has the cheapest petrol in the valley, and decent prices on food.
A nice organic foods store, a bit smaller than Léo Savoyarde, but with lots of choices and closer to town centre - you can walk to it in the Chamonix Sud area.
9 locals recommend
Cham Bio
46 Imp. du Genepy
9 locals recommend
A nice organic foods store, a bit smaller than Léo Savoyarde, but with lots of choices and closer to town centre - you can walk to it in the Chamonix Sud area.
This is the pharmacie next door to the flat. If you do not see something, ask the pharmacist for assistance.
6 locals recommend
Pharmacie des Alpes
53 Rue du Dr Paccard
6 locals recommend
This is the pharmacie next door to the flat. If you do not see something, ask the pharmacist for assistance.
This pharmacy is in town centre, not far past the clock tower. Has a choice of phyto therapy items and nutrition items for athletes, as well as a selection of fancy shampoos and soaps. Helpful staff.
Pharmacie de la Vallée - Dermocosmétique Micronutrition Phytothérapie à Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
124 Rue Joseph Vallot
This pharmacy is in town centre, not far past the clock tower. Has a choice of phyto therapy items and nutrition items for athletes, as well as a selection of fancy shampoos and soaps. Helpful staff.
This pharmacy is near the Aiguille du Midi lift station. It has a good selection of homeopathic medications (ask the pharmacist for what you need).
Pharmacie de L'Aiguille du Midi
262 Av. de l'Aiguille du Midi
This pharmacy is near the Aiguille du Midi lift station. It has a good selection of homeopathic medications (ask the pharmacist for what you need).
Organic food shop, vegan, vegetarian, gluten free specialties. This is close to the Les Houches Super U. Many varieties of tofu, tempeh etc. for vegans and vegetarians.
25 locals recommend
Bio Market
804 Av. des Alpages
25 locals recommend
Organic food shop, vegan, vegetarian, gluten free specialties. This is close to the Les Houches Super U. Many varieties of tofu, tempeh etc. for vegans and vegetarians.

Arts & Culture

The Chamonix Golf course is public, and there is a very nice restaurant here as well (Cabane des Praz). Additionally behind the golf course is the Paradise des Praz, beautiful flat walk in the woods.
27 locals recommend
Golf Club du Chamonix
35 Rte du Golf
27 locals recommend
The Chamonix Golf course is public, and there is a very nice restaurant here as well (Cabane des Praz). Additionally behind the golf course is the Paradise des Praz, beautiful flat walk in the woods.
Alpinisme pretty much began in Chamonix, and this little museum is worth a visit to see about its history.
113 locals recommend
Musée Alpin Chamonix
89 Av. Michel Croz
113 locals recommend
Alpinisme pretty much began in Chamonix, and this little museum is worth a visit to see about its history.
Early British visitors to Chamonix started this Protestant church located in central Chamonix. The church welcomes those of all beliefs who would like to join a community of Christians for support, worship and friendship. The church has a young pastor, Romain Gavache.
Eglise Reformee Arve Mont-Blanc
24 Passage du Temple
Early British visitors to Chamonix started this Protestant church located in central Chamonix. The church welcomes those of all beliefs who would like to join a community of Christians for support, worship and friendship. The church has a young pastor, Romain Gavache.
A museum dedicated to the history and heritage of Chamonix.
Maison De La Memoire Et Du Patrimoine Janny Couttet
90 Rue des Moulins
A museum dedicated to the history and heritage of Chamonix.
The Espace Tairraz holds a nice collection of cristals collected in the surrounding mountains and elsewhere. Each season it also hosts other changing temporary exhibits, usually with a mountain or Chamonix history theme.
78 locals recommend
Musée des Cristaux
615 All. Recteur Payot
78 locals recommend
The Espace Tairraz holds a nice collection of cristals collected in the surrounding mountains and elsewhere. Each season it also hosts other changing temporary exhibits, usually with a mountain or Chamonix history theme.
This museum houses a permanent sculpture collection and one or two seasonal exhibitions of fine art. You can reach it by car (via the Col des Montets and Col de la Forclaz) or by the SNCF train line to Martigny and walking 2km to the museum, or taking the local tram four stops. Martigny also has some roman ruins to see and the St Bernard dogs museum in the same general area.
154 locals recommend
Fondation Pierre Gianadda
59 Case Postale
154 locals recommend
This museum houses a permanent sculpture collection and one or two seasonal exhibitions of fine art. You can reach it by car (via the Col des Montets and Col de la Forclaz) or by the SNCF train line to Martigny and walking 2km to the museum, or taking the local tram four stops. Martigny also has some roman ruins to see and the St Bernard dogs museum in the same general area.
If you love dogs, you will appreciate the St Bernard museum, dedicated to the history of this local dog breed. It is also close to the Pierre Giannada museum and the Roman ruins in Martigny. Reach it by train from Chamonix, then local tram (or walk 2km from the train station) or by car.
25 locals recommend
Barryland - Musee Et Chiens Du St-Bernard
34 Rue du Levant
25 locals recommend
If you love dogs, you will appreciate the St Bernard museum, dedicated to the history of this local dog breed. It is also close to the Pierre Giannada museum and the Roman ruins in Martigny. Reach it by train from Chamonix, then local tram (or walk 2km from the train station) or by car.
The Romans were in the Savoy region - with nearby ruins in Martigny and in Aosta to visit. This site is also close to the Fondation Pierre Giannada art museum and the St Bernard dog museum. Reach it by car or via SNCF train to Martigny, then walk 2km or take the local tram for 8 minutes.
Amphithéâtre Romain
34 Rue d'Oche
The Romans were in the Savoy region - with nearby ruins in Martigny and in Aosta to visit. This site is also close to the Fondation Pierre Giannada art museum and the St Bernard dog museum. Reach it by car or via SNCF train to Martigny, then walk 2km or take the local tram for 8 minutes.

Entertainment & Activities

The beautiful Parc Merlet is a guaranteed way to show your family wonderful mountain animals such as the Ibex, Chevreuil and Marmots. It also has wonderful views of Mont Blanc.
187 locals recommend
Parc de Merlet
2495 Chem. de Merlet
187 locals recommend
The beautiful Parc Merlet is a guaranteed way to show your family wonderful mountain animals such as the Ibex, Chevreuil and Marmots. It also has wonderful views of Mont Blanc.
In summer season, les Gaillands has a nice bolted climbing crag and it also has this adventure park that has roped routes from toddler to expert adult that move from station to station through the forest - fun and challenges for the whole family. Local guides ensure safety in the Accro Park. For the rock climbing crag - you are on your own unless you book a mountain guide in advance.
26 locals recommend
Accro'Park des Gaillands
Route des Gaillands
26 locals recommend
In summer season, les Gaillands has a nice bolted climbing crag and it also has this adventure park that has roped routes from toddler to expert adult that move from station to station through the forest - fun and challenges for the whole family. Local guides ensure safety in the Accro Park. For the rock climbing crag - you are on your own unless you book a mountain guide in advance.
A Chamonix institution for après ski. Sometimes has bands. Also has a restaurant open for lunch and dinner.
59 locals recommend
Chambre Neuf
272 Av. Michel Croz
59 locals recommend
A Chamonix institution for après ski. Sometimes has bands. Also has a restaurant open for lunch and dinner.
Elevation is another Chamonix institution for après ski gathering. It also is open at lunch and dinner and is a big gathering place in Spring in the outdoor tables where skiers often gather after having conquered the Vallée Blanche.
81 locals recommend
Elevation 1904
259 Av. Michel Croz
81 locals recommend
Elevation is another Chamonix institution for après ski gathering. It also is open at lunch and dinner and is a big gathering place in Spring in the outdoor tables where skiers often gather after having conquered the Vallée Blanche.
La Folie Douce après ski is located in a historic Chamonix building housing the Folie Douce hotel, and overlooking the Savoy piste. Themed nights and several bars inside and outside - plenty of different ambiances to find to hang with your friends. When it has a crowd, this is a great spot to be.
L'OLYMPE / FOLIE DOUCE APRES SKI
823 All. Recteur Payot
La Folie Douce après ski is located in a historic Chamonix building housing the Folie Douce hotel, and overlooking the Savoy piste. Themed nights and several bars inside and outside - plenty of different ambiances to find to hang with your friends. When it has a crowd, this is a great spot to be.
A small bar good for après ski and especially popular with the Scandi crowd. Located in Chamonix Sud, near the Monkey Bar and the Bighorn Bistro.
South Bar
83 Place Edmond Desailloud
A small bar good for après ski and especially popular with the Scandi crowd. Located in Chamonix Sud, near the Monkey Bar and the Bighorn Bistro.
The local Chamonix movie theatre is just outside the door to your right, on the left near the Bartavel restaurant. It has several screens and often shows films in the original language (look for VO). Schedule is posted on flyers outside of the theatre or at their website.
86 locals recommend
Cinéma Vox
22 Cr du Bartavel
86 locals recommend
The local Chamonix movie theatre is just outside the door to your right, on the left near the Bartavel restaurant. It has several screens and often shows films in the original language (look for VO). Schedule is posted on flyers outside of the theatre or at their website.
This yoga studio is run by a local who has visited India many times and the advanced classes are hardcore. :-) Drop ins are welcome. Some knowledge of French is best to attend classes, though he does also help out in English. Check class schedules. https://sattvayogachamonix.com/en/to-begin/
7 locals recommend
Sattva Yoga
75 Prom. Marie Paradis
7 locals recommend
This yoga studio is run by a local who has visited India many times and the advanced classes are hardcore. :-) Drop ins are welcome. Some knowledge of French is best to attend classes, though he does also help out in English. Check class schedules. https://sattvayogachamonix.com/en/to-begin/

Gastronomie

A nice pub with interesting and tasty pizzas. Also has take away.
16 locals recommend
Little Boxes
269 Av. de Courmayeur
16 locals recommend
A nice pub with interesting and tasty pizzas. Also has take away.
Just outside the door of the flat, on your right - a nice casual place with plenty of choices for all tastes.
22 locals recommend
Le Caveau
13 Rue du Dr Paccard
22 locals recommend
Just outside the door of the flat, on your right - a nice casual place with plenty of choices for all tastes.
Wood-oven pizzas and other Italian dishes. A local institution.
22 locals recommend
Le Caveau
13 Rue du Dr Paccard
22 locals recommend
Wood-oven pizzas and other Italian dishes. A local institution.
The Monkey is a long-standing casual Chamonix Sud bar and restaurant. Vegan options at the restaurant. English/Swedish/French ski crowd. Tables outside in summer.
38 locals recommend
Monkey
81 Pl. Edmond Desailloud
38 locals recommend
The Monkey is a long-standing casual Chamonix Sud bar and restaurant. Vegan options at the restaurant. English/Swedish/French ski crowd. Tables outside in summer.
Magnificent restaurant in a farmhouse of 1754, beautifully decorated with large chandeliers and fireplace. The historic restaurant "L'Impossible" was the first organic restaurant and natural cuisine in Chamonix. Gluten free and vegan options. All is home made.
30 locals recommend
Restaurant Chamonix - L'impossible
9 Chem. du Cry
30 locals recommend
Magnificent restaurant in a farmhouse of 1754, beautifully decorated with large chandeliers and fireplace. The historic restaurant "L'Impossible" was the first organic restaurant and natural cuisine in Chamonix. Gluten free and vegan options. All is home made.
Fine dining. Two stars in the Michelin Guide. Chef Damien Leveau proposes subtly modernised French cuisine influenced by Mont-Blanc and the nearby Piedmont region of Italy.
14 locals recommend
Restaurant Albert 1er
38 Rte du Bouchet
14 locals recommend
Fine dining. Two stars in the Michelin Guide. Chef Damien Leveau proposes subtly modernised French cuisine influenced by Mont-Blanc and the nearby Piedmont region of Italy.
Savoyard fine dining. This traditional Savoyard restaurant exudes an ambience, flavours and savours, of the olden days. Second restaurant at the Albert 1er Hotel; serves an authentic cuisine accentuated with finesse and creativity. A fusion between the present and past, within a traditional Savoyard farm setting.
85 locals recommend
La Maison Carrier
44 Rte du Bouchet
85 locals recommend
Savoyard fine dining. This traditional Savoyard restaurant exudes an ambience, flavours and savours, of the olden days. Second restaurant at the Albert 1er Hotel; serves an authentic cuisine accentuated with finesse and creativity. A fusion between the present and past, within a traditional Savoyard farm setting.
Across the street from the apartment. Traditional Savoyard cuisine. Granpa Luc opened La Calèche in 1946 and it is still run by the same family today. Typical Chamoniard ambiance and many antiques on display. Reservations recommended.
85 locals recommend
La Calèche
18 Rue du Dr Paccard
85 locals recommend
Across the street from the apartment. Traditional Savoyard cuisine. Granpa Luc opened La Calèche in 1946 and it is still run by the same family today. Typical Chamoniard ambiance and many antiques on display. Reservations recommended.
If you are in Vallorcine you won't go wrong stopping at the Restaurant La Ferme des 3 Ours. It is built next to a real dairy farm and has a large fireplace inside the all wooden large restaurant. It offers, throughout summer and winter, regional cuisine using local products - great local cheeses are served. Service from noon for lunch, and from 7pm for dinner. From mid February, throughout the summer, the terrace is open. There is a great view from it over the Vallon de Bérard and the Aiguilles Rouges. You can reach it by taking the SNCF train from Chamonix, or by car. Vegetarian cheesy options. No vegan menu options. (Call in advance if you have a large group with a vegan to ask if they can accommodate).
12 locals recommend
Restaurant La Ferme des 3 Ours
12 locals recommend
If you are in Vallorcine you won't go wrong stopping at the Restaurant La Ferme des 3 Ours. It is built next to a real dairy farm and has a large fireplace inside the all wooden large restaurant. It offers, throughout summer and winter, regional cuisine using local products - great local cheeses are served. Service from noon for lunch, and from 7pm for dinner. From mid February, throughout the summer, the terrace is open. There is a great view from it over the Vallon de Bérard and the Aiguilles Rouges. You can reach it by taking the SNCF train from Chamonix, or by car. Vegetarian cheesy options. No vegan menu options. (Call in advance if you have a large group with a vegan to ask if they can accommodate).
Opened in March 2002, the MBC was the first Micro Brewery & Restaurant in the Mont-Blanc Region. The MBC is open 16h to 02h every day. Food is served until 23h. The MBC serves their own selection of beers, Après-Ski snacks and dinners. Specials like Monday wing night. Vegetarian options. For evening entertainment, they often have live music, DJ’s, and other events. Check their website what's happening this week.
89 locals recommend
Micro-Brasserie de Chamonix, MBC
350 Rte du Bouchet
89 locals recommend
Opened in March 2002, the MBC was the first Micro Brewery & Restaurant in the Mont-Blanc Region. The MBC is open 16h to 02h every day. Food is served until 23h. The MBC serves their own selection of beers, Après-Ski snacks and dinners. Specials like Monday wing night. Vegetarian options. For evening entertainment, they often have live music, DJ’s, and other events. Check their website what's happening this week.
Le National serves Savoyard specialities using fresh ingredients, always home made. It is just down the street from the apartment and is one of a few restaurants on the main high street that we recommend for consistent quality and friendliness.
16 locals recommend
Le National
1829 Rte des Grandes Alpes
16 locals recommend
Le National serves Savoyard specialities using fresh ingredients, always home made. It is just down the street from the apartment and is one of a few restaurants on the main high street that we recommend for consistent quality and friendliness.
An authentic Japanese restaurant in the alps, and walking distance from your door ! Satsuki is run by a Japanese family, and while the selection of fish is more limited than in a big city, their sushi, sashimi and other specialities of Japan are prepared with care and are always fresh and tasty. Great luncheon deals.
61 locals recommend
Satsuki
288 Rue Joseph Vallot
61 locals recommend
An authentic Japanese restaurant in the alps, and walking distance from your door ! Satsuki is run by a Japanese family, and while the selection of fish is more limited than in a big city, their sushi, sashimi and other specialities of Japan are prepared with care and are always fresh and tasty. Great luncheon deals.
This is another Chamonix institution - via Sweden. Wonderful Asian fusion cuisine by a passionate chef and his team. An ever changing menu with each season. Always a vegan and vegetarian option available.
100 locals recommend
Munchie
87 Rue des Moulins
100 locals recommend
This is another Chamonix institution - via Sweden. Wonderful Asian fusion cuisine by a passionate chef and his team. An ever changing menu with each season. Always a vegan and vegetarian option available.
Restaurant le Gandhi is the only Indian restaurant in the Chamonix valley with a chef from Madras in India - Roshan Sanjeev. Authentic Indian foods - with three levels of spiciness available to suit your palate. Many vegetarian dishes available. Ask for no ghee for vegan dishes. The Chamonix Bus no 1 has a stop very close to the restaurant, or you can drive there. Open for lunch and dinner.
Gandni Restaurant Indian
643 Avenue des Alpages
Restaurant le Gandhi is the only Indian restaurant in the Chamonix valley with a chef from Madras in India - Roshan Sanjeev. Authentic Indian foods - with three levels of spiciness available to suit your palate. Many vegetarian dishes available. Ask for no ghee for vegan dishes. The Chamonix Bus no 1 has a stop very close to the restaurant, or you can drive there. Open for lunch and dinner.
The first Indian restaurant in Chamonix - here for close to 30 years. There are now 2 locations, with the Annapurna 2 Grill and Curries is just down the street, and has a slightly more fancy decor, more space and outdoor tables. Many vegetarian choices at both. The Annapurna's website mentions it will adapt many of the vegetarian dishes to be vegan - just ask when you arrive. If you want things spicy, do insist - otherwise, they will cater for the sensitive French palate.
23 locals recommend
Restaurant Annapurna
62 Av. Ravanel le Rouge
23 locals recommend
The first Indian restaurant in Chamonix - here for close to 30 years. There are now 2 locations, with the Annapurna 2 Grill and Curries is just down the street, and has a slightly more fancy decor, more space and outdoor tables. Many vegetarian choices at both. The Annapurna's website mentions it will adapt many of the vegetarian dishes to be vegan - just ask when you arrive. If you want things spicy, do insist - otherwise, they will cater for the sensitive French palate.
Gourmet style pizzas made with sourdough that has been allowed to rise for 72 hours. Located at the border of Chamonix sud - walk to the Avenue Aiguille du Midi by taking a left from the front door, turn left . After the river, turn right and find the pizza place on your left. 04 50 96 73 59 https://thedaintypizza.com/
9 locals recommend
The Dainty
67 Prom. Marie Paradis
9 locals recommend
Gourmet style pizzas made with sourdough that has been allowed to rise for 72 hours. Located at the border of Chamonix sud - walk to the Avenue Aiguille du Midi by taking a left from the front door, turn left . After the river, turn right and find the pizza place on your left. 04 50 96 73 59 https://thedaintypizza.com/
A lovely little locals coffee shop at the rail road tracks. Home made baked goods and good coffee with vegan milk options. Turn left out of the flat and walk to the intersection of the Ave. Aiguille du Midi. Turn left and find the coffee spot on your right. Very small but does have upstairs seating.
Natifs Café
46 Avenue de l'Aiguille du Midi
A lovely little locals coffee shop at the rail road tracks. Home made baked goods and good coffee with vegan milk options. Turn left out of the flat and walk to the intersection of the Ave. Aiguille du Midi. Turn left and find the coffee spot on your right. Very small but does have upstairs seating.
British owned small café featuring daily changing set meals and English breakfasts. Normally has at least one vegan option available. Menu: chamsoft.co.uk Phone: 09 84 58 39 88
11 locals recommend
Café Bluebird Chamonix
155 Pl. Edmond Desailloud
11 locals recommend
British owned small café featuring daily changing set meals and English breakfasts. Normally has at least one vegan option available. Menu: chamsoft.co.uk Phone: 09 84 58 39 88
If you are hiking or skiing up in Vallorcine for the day, please be sure to stop by Le Café Comptoir for a snack or a meal before you leave. Serves lunch and dinner. Great ambiance, with a distinct "transalpine" style, bringing the best from the French, Italian and Swiss alps. Fresh and elegant dishes as well as traditional cheesy fare with quality ingredients. A couple of dishes for vegetarians, but please ask while you are there. Not sure if they know what a vegan is, however. Menu: lecafecomptoir.com Phone: 04 50 18 72 43
52 locals recommend
Le Café Comptoir
Chemin Rural dit du Plan de l'Envers
52 locals recommend
If you are hiking or skiing up in Vallorcine for the day, please be sure to stop by Le Café Comptoir for a snack or a meal before you leave. Serves lunch and dinner. Great ambiance, with a distinct "transalpine" style, bringing the best from the French, Italian and Swiss alps. Fresh and elegant dishes as well as traditional cheesy fare with quality ingredients. A couple of dishes for vegetarians, but please ask while you are there. Not sure if they know what a vegan is, however. Menu: lecafecomptoir.com Phone: 04 50 18 72 43
If you are skiing at the Grands Montets or hiking in high summer season in the Argentière region, pay the Ravanel family a stop at their hidden cabin - the Crèmerie du Glacier restaurant, tucked into the woods above the Grands Montets lift station. This rustic friendly restaurant has been in the same family since 1926 and are renowned for their authentic rustic cheesy dishes, using only the best regional products. Many vegetarian options, but vegans will be hard pressed. Try their croûtes for lunch ( a very fancy and filling toasted cheese with toppings, cooked in garlic and wine), or reserve ahead to try the local classic farçon. For dinner, a fondue is rather a must ... http://www.lacremerieduglacier.fr/ In winter you can book lunch here (reservations recommended) and ski to the restaurant from the red piste ski out. After the last hill crest before the long mostly flat return to the lift station, look on the right along the piste markers for the sign indicating the way to the restaurant. It is a bit of a toboggan run, so control your speed, you have been forewarned ! :-) To arrive for dinner in winter, many guests choose to snowshoe to reach the Cremerie, leaving from the Grands Montets car park (watch for the wooden signs pointing to the restaurant). In summer you can drive on the 4x4 road, which in winter becomes part of the cross country ski piste.
43 locals recommend
Restaurant La Crèmerie du Glacier
766 Chem. de la Glacière
43 locals recommend
If you are skiing at the Grands Montets or hiking in high summer season in the Argentière region, pay the Ravanel family a stop at their hidden cabin - the Crèmerie du Glacier restaurant, tucked into the woods above the Grands Montets lift station. This rustic friendly restaurant has been in the same family since 1926 and are renowned for their authentic rustic cheesy dishes, using only the best regional products. Many vegetarian options, but vegans will be hard pressed. Try their croûtes for lunch ( a very fancy and filling toasted cheese with toppings, cooked in garlic and wine), or reserve ahead to try the local classic farçon. For dinner, a fondue is rather a must ... http://www.lacremerieduglacier.fr/ In winter you can book lunch here (reservations recommended) and ski to the restaurant from the red piste ski out. After the last hill crest before the long mostly flat return to the lift station, look on the right along the piste markers for the sign indicating the way to the restaurant. It is a bit of a toboggan run, so control your speed, you have been forewarned ! :-) To arrive for dinner in winter, many guests choose to snowshoe to reach the Cremerie, leaving from the Grands Montets car park (watch for the wooden signs pointing to the restaurant). In summer you can drive on the 4x4 road, which in winter becomes part of the cross country ski piste.
Asian fusion street food. Chilled vibe, good hang out spot.
9 locals recommend
Le Shack
31 Rue Whymper
9 locals recommend
Asian fusion street food. Chilled vibe, good hang out spot.

Sports Instructors and Guides

Evolution 2 is a guiding company where you can book numerous activities from mountain and rock climbing to river rafting and parasailing.
12 locals recommend
Evolution 2 Ski And Adventure School
130 Rue des Moulins
12 locals recommend
Evolution 2 is a guiding company where you can book numerous activities from mountain and rock climbing to river rafting and parasailing.
The ESF Chamonix is one of several ski schools where you can book lessons or guides for your ski adventures. There are additional separate ESF locations in Argentière and Les Houches.
12 locals recommend
School French Ski
190 Pl. de l'Église
12 locals recommend
The ESF Chamonix is one of several ski schools where you can book lessons or guides for your ski adventures. There are additional separate ESF locations in Argentière and Les Houches.
The original mountain guiding company of Chamonix - full of tradition and world renowned.
40 locals recommend
Company Des Guides Of Chamonix
190 Pl. de l'Église
40 locals recommend
The original mountain guiding company of Chamonix - full of tradition and world renowned.
The ESF Les Houches is one of several ski schools where you can book lessons or guides for your ski adventures. Additional ESF locations are in Chamonix and Argentière
7 locals recommend
Esf Les Houches
108 Pl. du Prarion
7 locals recommend
The ESF Les Houches is one of several ski schools where you can book lessons or guides for your ski adventures. Additional ESF locations are in Chamonix and Argentière
The ESF Argentière is one of several ski schools where you can book lessons or guides for your ski adventures. Additional ESF schools are in Chamonix and les Houches.
ESF Argentiere
24 Rte du Village
The ESF Argentière is one of several ski schools where you can book lessons or guides for your ski adventures. Additional ESF schools are in Chamonix and les Houches.
A top rated school with teachers who are French champions in the sport. A great place to learn to parapente (parasail) or to hire a tandem ride.
Les Ailes du Mont-Blanc - Parapente et Speedriding Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
190 Place de l'Église
A top rated school with teachers who are French champions in the sport. A great place to learn to parapente (parasail) or to hire a tandem ride.
An independent guiding company with many English speaking guides.
High Mountain Guides
An independent guiding company with many English speaking guides.

Spas

This is a large and beautiful new spa in Chamonix built in 2018. It is run by the same team that runs the QC Terme in Pré St Didier. It has beautiful mountain views in the outdoor pools. Best to book ahead - https://www.qcterme.com/en/chamonix-mont-blanc/qc-terme-chamonix However, there are no natural hot springs in Chamonix (OK there are, but they have been capped because they smell of sulphur). So this is a lovely day spa, with many available massage treatments. Just be aware that the water is not a natural hot spring.
58 locals recommend
QC Terme Chamonix
480 Prom. du Fori
58 locals recommend
This is a large and beautiful new spa in Chamonix built in 2018. It is run by the same team that runs the QC Terme in Pré St Didier. It has beautiful mountain views in the outdoor pools. Best to book ahead - https://www.qcterme.com/en/chamonix-mont-blanc/qc-terme-chamonix However, there are no natural hot springs in Chamonix (OK there are, but they have been capped because they smell of sulphur). So this is a lovely day spa, with many available massage treatments. Just be aware that the water is not a natural hot spring.
This is the original (and in our opinion still the best) QC Terme thermal bath and day spa - with natural hot springs, located just past Courmayeur on the Italian side of the tunnel. Many spa pools and hot saunas available for the single entrance fee, or book additional services such as massages and mud treatments. Booking online is now required. https://www.qcterme.com/en/pre-saint-didier
200 locals recommend
QC Terme Pré Saint Didier
Allée des Thermes
200 locals recommend
This is the original (and in our opinion still the best) QC Terme thermal bath and day spa - with natural hot springs, located just past Courmayeur on the Italian side of the tunnel. Many spa pools and hot saunas available for the single entrance fee, or book additional services such as massages and mud treatments. Booking online is now required. https://www.qcterme.com/en/pre-saint-didier
Down the valley from Chamonix is a natural hot springs at the Thermes of Saint-Gervais. Special hours are reserved for familles with small children to visit the spa together. Cures, spa days and "remise en forme". Also offers treatments such as massages. Reserve your session ahead - www.thermes-saint-gervais.com Reach the spa via the SNCF train to St Gervais les Bains-Le Fayet (just across the street are the gates to the spa park) or drive down the valley 15 minutes.
127 locals recommend
Les Thermes De Saint-Gervais
355 All. du Dr Lépinay
127 locals recommend
Down the valley from Chamonix is a natural hot springs at the Thermes of Saint-Gervais. Special hours are reserved for familles with small children to visit the spa together. Cures, spa days and "remise en forme". Also offers treatments such as massages. Reserve your session ahead - www.thermes-saint-gervais.com Reach the spa via the SNCF train to St Gervais les Bains-Le Fayet (just across the street are the gates to the spa park) or drive down the valley 15 minutes.
Les Bains de Saillon are about an hour's drive, and can make a good stop when returning from a hike on the Swiss side. The prices here are very reasonable. Some of the areas allow children, and other parts require you to be over the age of 16. See the website for details and pricing. https://www.bainsdesaillon.ch/bains/centre-thermal
58 locals recommend
Les Bains de Saillon
16 Rte du Centre Thermal
58 locals recommend
Les Bains de Saillon are about an hour's drive, and can make a good stop when returning from a hike on the Swiss side. The prices here are very reasonable. Some of the areas allow children, and other parts require you to be over the age of 16. See the website for details and pricing. https://www.bainsdesaillon.ch/bains/centre-thermal
This is another quality and reasonably priced family spa in Switzerland, this one on the road past Martigny towards Montreux / Lausanne. Children over 4 are permitted. https://www.bains-lavey.ch/fr/
63 locals recommend
Les Bains de Lavey SA
63 locals recommend
This is another quality and reasonably priced family spa in Switzerland, this one on the road past Martigny towards Montreux / Lausanne. Children over 4 are permitted. https://www.bains-lavey.ch/fr/
You can book treatments at the small spa in the Hotel Le Morgane and there are two other Deep Nature spas close to the apartment in the Hotel Mont Blanc next to the tourist office, about 5 minutes away, and at the Hotel Aiglons near the Chamonix Sud bus station. These are smaller facilities. Some offer deals such as lunch + spa, and you can book treatments like massages and facials. https://www.deepnature.fr/fr/spa-chamonix-le-morgane And https://www.deepnature.fr/fr/spa-chamonix-spa-by-clarins And a third Deep Nature spa at the Aiglons hotel in Chamonix https://www.deepnature.fr/fr/spa-chamonix-les-aiglons
Spa Deep Nature - Le Morgane
145 Avenue de l'Aiguille du Midi
You can book treatments at the small spa in the Hotel Le Morgane and there are two other Deep Nature spas close to the apartment in the Hotel Mont Blanc next to the tourist office, about 5 minutes away, and at the Hotel Aiglons near the Chamonix Sud bus station. These are smaller facilities. Some offer deals such as lunch + spa, and you can book treatments like massages and facials. https://www.deepnature.fr/fr/spa-chamonix-le-morgane And https://www.deepnature.fr/fr/spa-chamonix-spa-by-clarins And a third Deep Nature spa at the Aiglons hotel in Chamonix https://www.deepnature.fr/fr/spa-chamonix-les-aiglons
A few doors down from the apartment, the 5 star Grand Hôtel des Alpes has a small spa with massage treatments that you can book, even if you are not a hotel guest. Contact them via their website to make a booking. https://grandhoteldesalpes.com/en/spa-and-wellness/
Grand Hôtel des Alpes
75 Rue du Docteur Paccard
A few doors down from the apartment, the 5 star Grand Hôtel des Alpes has a small spa with massage treatments that you can book, even if you are not a hotel guest. Contact them via their website to make a booking. https://grandhoteldesalpes.com/en/spa-and-wellness/