CHAMONIX MONT-BLANC VALLEY

THE MANY FACES OF A GIANT
SUMMER 2012
C HAMONIX M ONT -B LANC V ALLEY
Servoz
Les Houches
Chamonix
Mont-Blanc
Vallorcine
GET READY FOR A SUMMER
Is Mont-Blanc really white? Yes, even in the height of summer its
pristine white dome is with you wherever you are in the valley.
FULL OF COLOUR
But from the explosion of spring flowers to the flaming colours
of the forests in the autumn sun, our valley produces a firework
display of colours, a unique collection of sensations, emotions and
discoveries.
Here, even the silence has a thousand different shades,
interrupted by distant cow bells or cracking glaciers.
Breathtaking scenery, gorgeous hamlets, starry nights and
crystal-clear water… experience summer in its purest form.
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High altitude
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A Mecca for trail running
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Hiking
24
Sustainable tourism
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Nature reserves and
untouched countryside
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Gastronomy
and local produce
10 13
Top attractions
38
Shopping / nightlife
14
Outdoors / mountain
biking
30
Family holidays
32 35
Mountain lifts
16
White water,
lakes and rivers
36 38
Directory
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Cultural
and built heritage
39
Diary
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Practical information
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Tourist Offices
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Events
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High altitude
A LONER WITH A LOVE OF SHARING
Profile
CHRISTOPHE PROFIT
Mountain guide
Christophe Profit is a Chamonix guide who was one of the
great mountaineering figures of the 1980s.
With no fewer than 10 ascents of the North Face of the Eiger
and some legendary combination climbs under his belt, he
remains one of the great names of solo climbing.
Today enjoying somewhat “tamer“ pursuits, he still believes
that his solo exploits are of great use to him in his profession
as a guide. “They have taught me to judge the commitment I
am making, the notion of limits and safety.
But well before I made those climbs I was obsessed with
becoming a guide, of pursuing this very special profession.“
Today, working as a guide, he gets pleasure out of sharing
the experience.“What is essential is being in the mountains
together, sharing a goal with a partner.
That goal can be a very technical face for an experienced
mountaineer but also an accessible climb for someone who
is new to mountaineering. The main thing is the pleasure it
brings. And what gives me pleasure is knowing that it is often
a special moment for my clients.
And there’s no shortage of options: there are other ways of
“bagging a 4000er“ than climbing Mont-Blanc!“
LA CHAMONIARDE DE SECOURS :
LIBERTY, RESPONSABILITY… AND SAFETY!
On occasions the boom in mountaineering resulted in some critical situations. In 1957,
two amateur mountaineers Vincendon and Henry died on Mont-Blanc.
The drama led to an increase in the resources and role of La Chamionarde de Secours,
the company set up by the local council after the war.
Today, this organisation is a mountain safety body.
It cooperates actively on an international level with its Italian and Swiss counterparts, doing more
than taking part in rescue operations. Its missions include prevention, running courses and keeping
mountaineers informed in order to bring about improvements in equipment and techniques and remind
everyone that responsibility and prudence are the bedfellows of freedom.
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Hiking
Profile
PATRICE LABARBE
Photographer
and mountain leader
GET AWAY FROM IT ALL
Patrice Labarbe, who has been living in the Chamonix Valley
since 1983, has two jobs: he is not only a photographer but
also a mountain leader.
These two approaches help his close relationship with the
valley that he knows inside out to flourish. “A mountain
leader is different to a mountain guide in that he doesn’t
use any mountaineering equipment.
But that doesn’t mean not climbing to high altitude.
Because here, for example, a one-hour walk accessible to
anyone will take you up to a viewpoint over the fabulous
Argentière Glacier.
An opportunity to get close to a rare natural phenomenon…
and enjoy the cool air when there’s a heatwave below.“
TOUR DU MONT-BLANC :
EIGHT DAYS, THREE COUNTRIES, ONE GREAT CLASSIC
Patrice Labarbe is sometimes asked by clients who are
themselves amateur photographers to show them round
his secret garden. “We get out early in the morning or
late in the evening to some magical places, among the
rhododendrons or opposite a sheer mountainside.
You have time to sit and contemplate the world and get
away from the frenetic pace of modern life.
It’s as much a passion as a job!“
Here’s another way to “bag“ Mont-Blanc…
Walk round it! In 7 to 10 days, this great classic long-distance footpath enables you to get to know
the roof of Europe from every angle.
You’ll experience the charms of the Chamonix Valley’s two “close cousins“, the Val Ferret in Italy
and the Trient Valley in Switzerland. And when your legs are aching after a long day on the trail,
just remember that some of the competitors in the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® complete the same
route in less than 24 hours!
And when you see his pictures (some of which illustrate this
brochure) you can see that this philosophy suits him.
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Nature reserves and untouched countryside
Spying an eagle, spotting a chamois standing still on a ledge,
coming across an ibex…
You don’t need to travel to the other end of the planet to enjoy
such rare experiences.
Between them, the Chamonix Valley’s three nature reserves
cover an area of 4,400 hectares and offer an unrivalled
opportunity for spotting wildlife.
The Carlaveyron, Aiguilles Rouges and Bérard Reserves cover
altitudes from 1,100 to 3,000 metres.
They are packed with wildlife, and also home to lakes that offer
an additional attraction for hikers.
NATURE IN ALL ITS GLORY
DID YOU SAY A RESERVE?
A nature reserve is “an area of countryside where the conservation of the wildlife, plant life, soil,
water, mineral and fossil deposits and natural environment in general is of particular importance.“
What that means in practice is that any development in a nature reserve is strictly regulated.
It is not closed off to hikers; on the contrary.
But you have to play by the rules. You are not allowed to camp (only wild camping is tolerated
between 7pm and 9am), paraglide over the Aiguilles Rouges (so as not to disturb the birds of prey),
make a fire or take a dog with you, even on a lead.
The wardens are there to ensure the rules are followed, but also to provide information
and help you discover these exceptional places. You can easily find them at the visitor centre
on the Col des Montets.
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Top attractions
THE MONTENVERS TRAIN – MER DE GLACE
ADVENTURES AWAIT…
Take a ride on the famous little red train to an altitude of 1,913
m at the foot of the Mer de Glace, a living witness of climate
change in the modern age.
Visit the glaciorium and learn all about the life of a glacier and
how it changes over time… Soak up the history of the site, learn
about the first tourists who came to the valley and find out
which celebrities visited this attraction and fell in love with it,
or even found inspiration from it… Experience the passion of the
crystal seekers who look tirelessly for THE unique piece in these
mountains…
You’ll never forget the atmosphere and beauty of this magical
place…
TRAMWAY DU MONT-BLANC
One of the last cog railways, the highest in France, takes you up
to one of the starting points for the ascent of Mont-Blanc, or to
enjoy the amazing and magnificent panorama all the way along
your trip…
THE AIGUILLE DU MIDI
Its reputation precedes it… This imposing and magnificent peak towering at 3,842 metres
above the Chamonix Valley is the flagship attraction of this magical place.
It’s a gateway to the high mountains, accessible to everyone but still as wild as it ever was.
In a 20-minute journey ever higher above the valley you reach a height of 3,777 metres to discover
a truly breathtaking view. You can soak up the atmosphere, take deep breaths of mountain air and
store up a host of imaginary exploits…
Take the lift up the final few metres to the summit terrace, a place you will never forget
the beauty of the scenery unfolding around you for 360° is simply incredible…
A must-have experience that makes you realise just how small you are and enjoy
the serene vastness of the mountains!
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FEAST YOUR EYES
Top attractions
The scenery is an important part of any show.
We have laid on the best for you, offering you the opportunity to
experience some unforgettable moments with the entire MontBlanc range as the backcloth.
And yet these are places you can get to with all the family, like
the Parc de Merlet where chamois, ibex and marmots play in the
sun.
Le Brévent, an amazing balcony viewpoint over the valley, or La
Flégère, where the mountain lifts will whisk you effortlessly up
to the refreshing Lac Blanc.
Here you don’t have to give your legs a hard time to give your
eyes a treat.
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MOUNTAIN BIKING WITH A CAPITAL “M“
Outdoors / mountain biking
Profile
CÉCILE ET CÉDRIC RAVANEL
Mountain biking champions
Professional mountain bikers since 1999, Cédric and Céline
Ravanel are a daring duo.
They may have found their heart’s desire in each other, but
mountain biking gets their heart racing too.
And we’re not just talking metaphorically. “On an Olympic trail,“
explains Cédric, “you’re constantly on overdrive, your pulse
racing at an average of 180 beats per minute.“
Their sort of all-out mountain biking is physically demanding.
“On a descent, you have to pull out all the stops and let go.“
But they still like the fact that the mountain biking is accessible
to a huge range of people, and their valley offers everything you
need. “Here, there are singletracks (narrow trails that are great
fun to ride) as well as bike parks and broad tracks for beginners.
There’s something for everyone.
And the icing on the cake? The biking comes with views of
glaciers!“
TRY “CHILLED-OUT“ MOUNTAIN BIKING!
The Chamonix Valley publishes a mountain biking guide with details of around twenty
biking routes for all abilities. For your first foray into mountain biking we suggest you
make the most of the ski lifts that operate in the summer to save your legs.
You can also use the local bus and rail services to exploit the valley’s potential without
necessarily having to ride circular routes. On your bike!
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WILD WATER!
White water, lakes and rivers
Rushing noisily in the mountain torrents, packed with fish
in the rivers, thirst-quenching after a long walk, soothing in
the mountain lakes: the pure water from the glaciers is the
source of a host of activities to fill your summer: rafting,
canyoning, fly fishing or quite simply adding to the scenery.
THE AMAZING DIOSAZ GORGE…
In the Diosaz Gorge, water has carved out a myriad of fascinating
shapes, wearing away the rock to create an impressive landscape
jostling with rushing waterfalls.
Next to the “natural bridge“ is an enormous boulder suspended
between two rock walls: amazing!
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AN OPEN-AIR MUSEUM
Cultural and built heritage
A VALLEY OF MANY ARCHITECTURAL STYLES
Here, when the curious visitor looks up, there’s more
to see than mountains.
Superb Belle Époque and Art Nouveau façades remind us all that
the mountain tourism industry of the well-to-do of prestige was
born at the foot of Mont-Blanc.
And they rub shoulders with a host of other architectural
curiosities which, from the traditional chalet or the
neoclassical Sardinian building to the chapel, tell the story of
countless migrations, changes of sovereignty and sociological
developments that have left their mark in the streets and
hamlets of the valley. Exploring this extremely varied heritage
is another way of discovering and getting to know the valley.
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Events
BLACK SESSION IN FRONT OF MONT-BLANC
A VALLEY WITH NEVER A DULL MOMENT
With the Musicaltitude Festival, the traditional Fête des Guides
in Chamonix and the free Servoz en Ébullition Festival, there are
festive goings-on here all summer long!
COSMOJAZZ
Cosmo Jazz is a crazy idea: inviting the top jazz artists to play in front of
the world’s most stunning backdrop.
And when the brass blast out in the cool mountain air, the mix is simply magical.
An unmissable celebration of jazz throughout the valley… and a great experience
for those new to jazz thanks to André Manoukian, the brains behind the event.
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A MECCA FOR TRAIL RUNNING
A Mecca for trail running
Portrait
KILIAN JORNET
Competitive trail runner
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® might seem like a
superhuman challenge strictly for masochists.
But three-time winner Kilian Jornet has a big grin on his face
even when he’s in the thick of the race. He particularly likes
this race. “Mont-Blanc is a mountain unlike any other. It has a
particular feel about it.
As for the UTMB, it’s first and foremost a friendly
get-together of trail runners, a meeting of people
who love the mountains.“
Pleasure is the watchword for this unrivalled athlete, who is
convinced that this type of race is won with the head.
“My driving force is first and foremost my love for the
mountains, taking on the elements.
Here, you adapt to nature, and never the other way round.“
A SUMMER OF CHALLENGES…
Alongside the legendary UTMB, the Chamonix Valley offers trail runners a host of
runs and combination races throughout the summer:
the Cross du Mont-Blanc, the Marathon du Mont-Blanc, the Trail des Aiguilles Rouges
and the Chirvathlon, an original team triathlon event around Servoz.
The footpaths that these races use are of course the perfect training ground for
anyone who wants to have a go at trail running while on holiday.
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A SPECIAL ATTRACTION…
Sustainable tourism
Profile
ETIENNE KLEIN
Physicist at the CEA
(Atomic Energy Commissariat)
Étienne Klein is a scientist well known to the French public,
mainly through his popular-science books about matter and
time.
He lives in Paris but he’s been coming to the Chamonix Valley
regularly for thirty years.
Why do you keep coming back to Chamonix?
“Lots of physicists seem to be attracted to high mountains, I
don’t know why, but it’s a fact. As for me, I first felt this special
attraction, this draw to the mountains at a very young age.
In my opinion there are two types of people, and you can spot
them in the street here.
Some people look straight ahead, and other can’t help but raise
their eyes to the mountains.
I’m one of them.“
PLAN CLIMAT ENERGIE: THE COMMITMENTS OF AN ICONIC VALLEY
Aware of the environmental issues affecting its outstanding natural heritage, the Chamonix Valley
Community of Communes has adopted the French government’s Plan Climat Energie Territorial (PCET)
energy plan. This scheme aims to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions in the long term.
Rather than unilaterally imposing measures, it has chosen to involve the local players closely
in the process: the associations, businesses, institutions and of course the citizens of the valley have
come together to discuss and draw up a concrete plan of action for the next ten years.
A partner of the Chamonix Festival des Sciences for years,
Étienne Klein has often taken part in discussions about
the future of the valley, particularly about sustainable
development. “These events that raise awareness and prompt
popular debate are important, and this valley is active in this
respect.
Sustainable tourism is an important issue here, where there is
an urban area so close to the peaks.
The mountains must remain unspoilt by the fact that they are
difficult to get to. It’s when you’re up there that you realise
just how beautiful and fragile they are.“
This covers energy saving, managing local industry and new initiatives in the tourist economy.
Environmental education has not been forgotten either, because this will form the basis for a future
long-lasting change in behaviour.
Transport policy lies at the heart of this scheme, with an innovative tram-train project complemented
by a sustainable transport programme. We must do everything we can to ensure that the valley’s
environmental policy is worthy of the unique mountains surrounding it.
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Gastronomy and local produce
Fish a hunk of Tomme cheese, some air-cured ham and a
crusty cob loaf out of your rucksack and you’re already
experiencing the valley’s gastronomic reputation.
But don’t stop there! The local produce is about more than
cheese and saucisson. Some top restaurants await you,
and we have no shortage of ways of encouraging you to try
the international produce of Mont-Blanc, from the wines of
Switzerland to the produce of the Aosta Valley.
And those looking for more exotic flavours also have lots of
tasty treats in store in Chamonix’s Indian, Chinese, Mexican,
Japanese and Swedish restaurants.
MOUNTAINS WITH A CAPITAL “MMMMMM“!
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Shopping / nightlife
GREAT OUTDOORS, AND GREAT SHOPPING!
CHAMONIX: THE SHOPPING FACE OF MONT-BLANC
There are lots of good things about living in a town close
to the countryside, and although not large, Chamonix
offers all the benefits of a large town, a stone’s throw
from Mont-Blanc.
Here, there’s no off-season. Both summer and winter
tourists from all over the world throng to shops that
have nothing to envy those in Europe’s great capitals,
in a place at a human scale.
France’s second highest profile city to foreigners after
Paris, Chamonix keeps all its promises to those who don’t
think that the Great Outdoors and shopping have to be
mutually exclusive.
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Family holidays
Adventure trail
SPENDING YOUR HOLIDAY NEXT TO A GIANT HELPS YOU GROW BIG AND STRONG!
Mont-Blanc may be a giant but it is very accessible to
budding mountain explorers, who can take advantage of
a host of easy options for days out that will leave a big
impression…
It’s also a marvellous “childhood memory factory“: the
marmot on the lookout beside its hole, the chamois
careering down a dizzying slope, the mountaineers decked
out in all their gear setting out to take on a legendary
face…
Walking with donkeys
Here, there’s adventure around every corner!
Family rambles
Horse-drawn cart rides
Climbing school
Water sports centre
Summer tobogganing
Paradis des Praz
Kids’ mountain biking
St Bernard farm
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Mountain lifts
MONT-BLANC MultiPass summer 2012
ON HOLIDAY, GO AS YOU
PLEASE FOR THE RIGHT
PRICE…
Get the MONT-BLANC MultiPass and use the lifts to
get to everywhere in the Valley whenever you want
without ever having to buy another ticket.
You choose the duration and option (consecutive or
non-consecutive days) and organise your sightseeing
and trips the way you want to, all for a great price.
Avantages
• You pay only once
• Unlimited access to all the attractions
run by Compagnie du Mont-Blanc:
- Aiguille du Midi (not including
the Mont-Blanc Panoramic gondola lift),
- Montenvers – Mer de Glace
- Mont-Blanc Tram – Tramway
du Mont-Blanc
- Grands Montets
- Brévent/Flégère
- Balme area
- Le Prarion gondola lift
- Bellevue cable car
• Free place reservation on the Aiguille
du Midi cable car and on the lift at
the top of the Aiguille du Midi
Adult
16 years +
Reduced rate
Child (4-15 years)
1 jour
2 days
3 days
4 days
5 days
6 days
7 days
8 days
9 days
10 days
11 days
12 days
13 days
14 days
15 days
52,20 €
65,90 €
76,10 €
91,30 €
101,40 €
111,60 €
121,70 €
131,80 €
142,00 €
147,10 €
152,10 €
157,20 €
162,30 €
167,30 €
172,40 €
44,00 €
56,00 €
64,00 €
77,60 €
86,20 €
94,90 €
103,40 €
112,00 €
120,70 €
125,00 €
129,30 €
133,60 €
138,00 €
142,20 €
146,50 €
Non-consecutive days
Adult
16 years +
Reduced rate
Child (4-15 years)
2 days*
3 days*
76,10 €
91,30 €
56,00 €
64,00 €
Family
2 Adults
and 1 Child
148,40 €
187,80 €
216,20 €
260,20 €
289,00 €
318,10 €
346,80 €
375,60 €
404,70 €
419,20 €
433,50 €
448,00 €
462,60 €
476,80 €
491,30 €
Family
2 Adults
and 1 Child
208,20 €
246,60 €
* To be used over a period of 7 consecutive calendar days
4 days**
5 days**
6 days**
101,40 €
111,60 €
131,80 €
77,60 €
86,20 €
94,90 €
280,40 €
309,40 €
358,50 €
** To be used over a period of 15 consecutive calendar days
10 days***
15 days***
162,30 €
213,00 €
125,00 €
146,50 €
449,60 €
572,50 €
Personal and not transferable photo obligatory (***). Use until november 30th 2012
BRING THE FAMILY!
2 adults + 1 paying child = your other children FREE
Informations
Compagnie du Mont-Blanc,
www.compagniedumontblanc.com
Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75
Ipad, Iphone and Android applications
Consecutive days
Compulsory ‘hands-free’ card: €3.00
* ** Photo required for passes valid for 4 non-consecutive days or more and for 10 consecutive days or more.
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Document not legally binding.
The information and prices quoted by Compagnie du Mont-Blanc are for information purposes and may be subject to change.
General terms and conditions of sale are available at all ticket offices.
Mountain lifts
Mountain lifts in Les Houches
Both lifts are accessible with the MONT-BLANC MultiPass.
• Le Prarion gondola lift
F-74310 Les Houches
Tel : + 33 (0)4 50 54 42 65
Fax : + 33 (0)4 50 54 55 36
www.ski-leshouches.com
[email protected]
THE AMAZING ATTRACTIONS OF CHAMONIX MONT-BLANC VALLEY
Lifts are accessible with the MONT-BLANC Multipass
• Aiguille du Midi
(3842 m)
Accessible from Chamonix by
cable car in just 20 minutes,
the viewing terrace and visitor facilities on the Aiguille
du Midi provide a spectacular
360° view of Mont Blanc and
the French, Swiss and Italian
Alps.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €45.60
Children (4-15 years): €38.50
Family*: €136.90
• Montenvers-Mer
de Glace (1913 m)
• Tramway du
Mont-Blanc (2380 m)
(Saint Gervais - Le Fayet)
The Montenvers cog railway
runs from Chamonix up to
the foot of the famous Mer
de Glace (1,913 m) in 20
minutes, for access to the
grotto cut into the heart of
the glacier every year.
Setting out from Le Fayet,
enjoy an amazing panorama
of the Bionnassay Glacier
on a cog-railway trip to the
threshold of the high mountains.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €26.40
Children (4-15 years): €22.30
Family*: €79.10
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over), journey up
to the Mont Lachat: €30.40
Children (4-15 years): €25.90
Family*: €91.30
Opening periods and access to the
Panoramic Mont-Blanc: please contact
us for further information.
• Grands Montets
(3275 m)
• Brévent-Flégère
Starting from Argentière,
the cable car trip to the Plateau de Lognan (1,972 m) and
on to the Aiguille des Grands
Montets (3,300 m) provides
a magnificent panorama of
the summits of the Mont
Blanc range.
Facing due south across to
the Mont Blanc range, Brévent-Flégère is the starting
point of some accessible
classic long-distance footpaths that lead to several
mountain lakes.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €27.40
Children (4-15 years): €23.30
Family*: €82.20
(2525 m)
Brévent:
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €26.40
Children (4-15 years): €22.30
Family*: €79.10
Flégère (L’Index) :
Adults (16 years and over): €14.20
Children (4-15 years): €20.80
Family*: €73.00
• Balme (2270 m)
(Le Tour - Vallorcine)
Access vast Alpine meadows
just a few kilometres from
the Swiss border.
Le Tour - Col de Balme:
Adults (16 years and over): €24.30
Children (4-15 years): €20.80
Family*: €73.00
Panoramic 8-seater gondolas take you
up in just a few minutes to the Plateau du
Prarion, the starting point of some great
mountain biking and paragliding routes!
Walkers have the opportunity to explore
the Alpine meadows of La Charme,
stock up on cheese and take the forest
road back down to the traditional
chalets in Charousse.
Please note, this lift is one of the first
in France designed and built to
accommodate mobility-impaired
visitors in complete comfort.
• Bellevue cable car
F-74310 Les Houches
Tel : + 33 (0)4 50 54 70 93
www.ski-leshouches.com
[email protected]
For mountaineers, Bellevue is the main
access point to Mont-Blanc.
It’s the starting point of the famous Tour
of Mont-Blanc, a walking route accessible
to everyone which takes 7 to 10 days.
It is also a great way to get up high and
admire a 360° panorama of the Mont-Blanc
range, the Aiguilles de Chamonix and the
Fiz Mountains.
Experienced and beginner mountain bikers
also frequently use this lift and the
playground of energetic biking trails here.
Categories
Vallorcine gondola lift:
Adults (16 years and over): €14.20
Children (4-15 years): €12.20
Family*: €42.60
Mountain lift fares for Les Houches, summer 2012
Tickets for Le Prarion and Bellevue lifts
Single
Return
Day pass
Adults from 16 years
11,50 €
14,00 €
16,00 €
Children 4 to 15 years inclusive
9,80 €
11,90 €
13,60 €
42,00 €
Family (2 adults + 2 children from the same family)
-
Tickets for Les Houches-Bellevue-Mont-Lachat (with the Tramway du Mont-Blanc)
Single
Return
Day pass
Adults from 16 years
19,10 €
26,70 €
-
Children 4 to 15 years inclusive
15,90 €
22,50 €
-
(+€7.00/
additional child)
-
Document not legally binding. Prices quoted are for information purposes and may be subject to change.
Special rates and other products: information and sale directly at all ticket offices.
*Family: 2 adults (parents or grandparents) + 2 children from the same family.
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Resort
Service provider
Servoz
Odyssée Montagne
Les Houches
Chamonix
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONALS
Directory
Mountaineering Kayaking
Canyoning Orienteering
Rock
climbing
Hydrospeed
Nordic
walking
Paragliding
Fishing
Rafting
Horse riding
Glacier
hiking
Resort
Via corda
Via ferrata
Mountain
biking
Telephone
Web
+33(0)4 50 91 20 83
www.odyssee-montagne.fr
Adventure Canyoning Escalade
Jean Ladurelle
+33(0)6 10 67 30 02
www.ace-chamonix.com
Cham’Aventure
+33(0)4 50 54 50 76
www.cham-aventure.com
Compagnie des Guides
de Chamonix Mont-Blanc
+33(0)4 50 54 50 76
www.chamonix-guides.com
Évolution 2
l
Servoz oz
Activities
Diosaz Gorge
Société de pêche et de
protection du milieu aquatique
Servoz Tennis Club
Les Houchesches Playgrounds
Telephone
Directory
Web
Attraction visit
+33(0)4 50 47 21 13 www.lesgorgesdeladiosaz.com
Lake and river fishing
+33(0)6 80 36 70 76
Tennis
+33(0)4 50 47 21 68
INDOOR ACTIVITIES
Resort
Les Houches
Les Chavants and the lake
Arbre Aventure treetop trail
Adventure park
+33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com
Bike park
Mountain biking
+33(0)4 50 54 70 93 www.bikeparkbellevue.com
Chamonix
Activities
Telephone
Web
Cinebus - Espace Olca
Mobile cinema
+33(0)4 50 55 50 62
www.leshouches.com
Mont Blanc Escalade
Indoor climbing wall
+33(0)4 50 54 76 48
www.montblancescalade.com
Bowling centre
Bowling - Pool - Indoor mini-golf
+33(0)4 50 53 74 37
+33(0)4 50 53 07 65
+33(0)4 50 54 41 02 www.evolution2-chamonix.com
Indiana Kid
Adventure park
+33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com
Casino
Slot machines - Table games
AA haut vol, paragliding, skiing,
mountain activities
Absolute Chamonix, paragliding,
speed riding, high altitude activities
+33(0)6 80 03 24 74
Downhill mountain biking runs
Mountain biking
+33(0)4 50 54 70 93 www.bikeparkbellevue.com
Water sports centre
Pool - Sauna - Steam bath - Water garden +33(0)4 50 53 09 07
www.chamonix.com
Adventure park
+33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com
Cinema
3 screens
+33(0)4 50 53 03 39
www.cinemavox-chamonix.com
Ailes du Mont-Blanc
+33(0)6 20 46 55 57 www.lesailesdumontblanc.com
Lake and river fishing
+33(0)6 80 36 70 76
Climbing wall
Rock climbing
+33(0)4 50 53 09 07
www.chamonix.com
Antecimes Summits,
paragliding
Association Internationales
des Guides du Mont-Blanc
P’tit kid
Société de pêche et de
protection du milieu aquatique
Tennis Club
Tennis
+33(0)4 50 54 43 37 http://tc.leshouches.free.fr
+33(0)6 84 01 26 00
Skating rink
Ice skating - Ice hockey
+33(0)4 50 53 12 36
www.chamonix.com
Union de Pétanque du Mont-Blanc
Weight training room, fitness and gym
Weight training Fitness Gym
+33(0)4 50 53 09 07
www.chamonix.com
+33(0)4 50 53 27 05 www.guides-du-montblanc.com
Tennis
Tennis - Squash
+33(0)4 50 53 28 40
www.chamonix.com
Aventure en tête
+33(0)4 50 54 05 11
www.aventureentete.com
Rock climbing
Pétanque (boules)
+33(0)4 50 54 52 64 http://upmb.leshouches.perso.sfr.fr
Behind Chamonix Town Hall, MJC,
and in the moraine at Argentière
Les Gaillands, La Joux, Pierre d’Orthaz, etc.
Cham’Aventure
+33(0)4 50 53 55 70
www.cham-aventure.com
Golf
Golf
+33(0)4 50 53 06 28 www.golfdechamonix.com
Miniature golf
Minigolf course
+33(0)4 50 55 82 56
Huskydalen
Canirando (summer dogsled)
+33(0)6 84 99 34 67 www.huskydalen.com
+33(0)6 08 23 92 65 www.absolute-chamonix.com
www.summits.fr
Chamonix
Playgrounds in Chamonix
Chamonix Experience
+33(0)4 50 54 09 36
www.chamex.com
Chamonix parapente
+33(0)6 61 84 61 50
www.chamonix-parapente.fr
Summer tobogganing
Summer tobogganing
+33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com
Compagnie des Guides de
Chamonix Mont-Blanc
+33(0)4 50 53 00 88
www.chamonix-guides.com
Paint ball
Paint Ball
+33(0)6 07 36 01 51
Parc de loisirs de Chamonix
Leisure park
+33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com
Adventure trail
Treetop trail
+33(0)6 63 77 78 03 www.chamonixparc.com
Fitness trail
Les Gaillands
Mountain biking school
+33(0)6 19 75 69 16
Evolution 2
+33(0) 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com
Oxo Mont Blanc Canyoning
+33(0)6 77 88 24 50 www.canyoning-chamonix.com
Fishing
Rivers, lakes and mountain torrents
Peak Experience
+33(0)6 20 63 18 52
Pétanque (boules)
Pétanque (boules)
+33(0)4 50 90 80 17
Outdoor swimming pool
Pool - Water garden - Water slide
+33(0)4 50 53 09 07 www.chamonix.com
www.peakexperience.com
Peak Powder
+33(0)6 89 06 51 03
www.peakpowder.com
Prestige outdoors specialists
+33(0)6 80 20 83 70
www.prestigeoutdoor.com
Stage expéditions
+33(0)4 50 55 94 26
www.stageexpe.com
UCPA Cosmique
+33(0)4 50 53 12 05
www.ucpa-vacances.com
Argentière
UCPA Glaciers
+33(0)4 50 54 07 11
Vallorcine
Canyon-club du Mont-Blanc
+33(0)4 50 54 62 96
Chamonix Aventure
+33(0)9 77 76 13 62 www.chamonix-aventure.com
Maison des Guides de Vallorcine
+33(0)4 50 54 60 69
36
www.maisondelamontagne
vallorcine.fr
www.maisondelamontagne
vallorcine.fr
Athletics track
Skate park
Argentière
Vallorcine
Tennis
Clay and artificial courts + squash
Chamonix Mont Blanc hélicos
Panoramic helicopter flights
+33(0)4 50 54 13 82 www.chamonix-helico.fr
Mountain biking
Downhill, enduro, cross country
+33(0)4 50 53 00 24 www.chamonix.com
Marc Van Leynseele
Mountain fishing guide
+33(0)6 15 11 77 58 www.pecheetrando.com
Downhill mountain biking runs
Downhill mountain biking
+33(0)4 50 54 60 71 www.vallorcine.com
Société de pêche
Sale of fishing permits
+33(0)4 50 54 60 71 www.vallorcine.com
Municipal tennis courts
Tennis
+33(0)4 50 54 60 45 www.vallorcine.fr
La Ferme de Vallorcine
+33(0)4 50 53 28 40
www.chamonix.com
+33(0)4 50 54 69 42
37
MUSEUMS AND LIBRARIES
Directory
CHIL DCARE FACILITIES
Resort
Activities
Resort
Servoz
Telephone
Web
Servoz
Rose bonbon
Ages 2 months / 4 yrs
+33(0)6 32 01 93 17 [email protected]
Les Houches
Club enfants touristique
Ages 18 months / 10 yrs
+33(0)6 86 32 56 42 [email protected]
Day nursery
Ages 3 months / 3 yrs
+33(0)4 50 54 48 19 [email protected]
Events org. and leisure centre
Ages 3 years / 18 yrs
+33(0)4 50 54 43 02 [email protected]
Chamonix
Vallorcine
CAP Loisirs
Minimum age 3 yrs
Cham Aventure
Sports sessions for ages 3 to 17 +33(0)4 50 53 55 70 www.cham-aventure.com
Evo2
Multi-activities for ages 6 to 14
Paradis des Praz
Refreshments, games, ponies, etc. +33(0)6 61 73 23 00
Chamonix Leisure Park
Summer tobogganing, games, etc. +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com
Parcours Aventure Chamonix
Adventure trail min. age 3
+33(0)6 63 77 78 03 www.parcoursaventurechamonix.com
Leisure centre
Ages 3-11 yrs
+33(0)4 50 53 12 24 www.mjcchamonix.org
Les Houches
Chamonix
+33(0)4 50 53 12 24 www.mjchamonix.org
Chamonix
les Pélerins
+33(0)4 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com
Chamonix
Activities
Les Houches
Vallorcine
Activities
Maison de l’Alpage
+33(0)6 70 61 07 18 chamonixmb.fr
Guided heritage tours
+33(0)4 50 47 21 68 www.servoz.com
Les Houches library
+33(0)4 50 54 39 83 [email protected]
Museum of Mountain and Rural Life
+33(0)4 50 54 54 74 [email protected]
Guided heritage tours
+33(0)4 50 55 50 62 www.leshouches.com
+33(0)4 50 55 94 67
Library/games library
+33(0)4 50 53 34 82
Library
+33(0)4 50 55 92 97
Cloches Artisanales
Devouassoud
Espace Tairraz Mountaineering Centre
Musée Wibault
Hand-made bells
Summer sled trip with huskies Activities with huskies
+33(0)6 84 99 34 67
www.huskydalen.com
+33(0)4 50 55 50 62
Payot goat farm
Visit and farm snacks
+33(0)6 87 41 71 57 www.lafermeapayot.com
Saint Bernard farm
Visit of the breeding kennels
+33(0)4 50 47 23 60 paysdumontblanc.chiens-de-france.com
La Compagnie des Ânes
Walks with a donkey
+33(0)4 50 47 26 18
Merlet Wildlife Park
See the Alpine wildlife
+33(0)4 50 53 47 89 www.parcdemerlet.com
Horse riding
Horse rides
+33(0)6 13 08 33 58 www.skijoeringmontblanc.com
Evasion Nordique cani rando
Summer sledding with huskies
+33(0)6 82 09 50 03 www.evasion-nordique.com
Val’horse inn
Pony rides
+33(0)6 82 11 53 21
www.amis-vieux-chamonix.org
+33(0)4 50 53 04 88 www.sonnettesdevouassoud.com
+33(0)4 50 53 25 93
+33(0)4 50 53 04 35 www.wibault.org
+33(0)4 50 53 11 24 www.traincham.com
Guided tours of Chamonix
+33(0)4 50 53 00 24
Argentière
Library
+33(0)4 50 54 03 06
Vallorcine
Vallorcine library
+33(0)4 50 34 44 08 [email protected]
+33(0)4 50 54 02 24 www.rnaiguillesrouges.org
+33(0)4 50 54 63 19
Accommodation
Business tourism
For details of accommodation availability
in Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley log on to
the tourist office websites.
Brochures are also available on request
from the 4 tourist offices.
• Salle municipale Jean Morel - Servoz
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 47 21 51
• Servoz/Les Houches
www.servoz.com
www.leshouches.com
• Chamonix Mont-Blanc
www.chamonix.com
• Vallorcine
www.vallorcine.com
Exhibition of crystals and interactive
+33(0)4 50 55 53 93
exhibition about mountaineering
Exhibition of paintings
Visitor centre for the Aiguilles
Rouges Nature Reserve
Musée vallorcin
La Maison de Barberine
Web
[email protected]
maison-alpage@ccvallede
Library of the ‘Amis du vieux
Chamonix’ association
Guided heritage tours
Telephone
Web
+33(0)4 50 47 28 75
Little sightseeing train
Resort
Telephone
Servoz library
Alpine Museum
ANIMAL ATT RACTIONS
Annuaire
http://maisonbarberine.over-blog.
com/
• Argentière
www.chamonix.com
• Espace Olca - Les Houches
Tél : +33 (0) 4 50 55 50 62
[email protected]
• Bureau des congrès - Chamonix
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 75 50
www.congres-chamonix.com
• Cinéma Vox - Chamonix
Meeting rooms
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 55 89 98
EVENTS DIARY
Thursday 31 May to Saturday 2 June
2nd Mont-Blanc Versant Durable Festival,
Chamonix
Friday 29 June
KM VERTICAL à Chamonix
Friday 29 June to Sunday 1 July
Mont-Blanc cross-country race
and marathon, Chamonix
Thursday 12 and Friday 13 July
Climbing World Cup and climbing Festival,
Chamonix
Friday 13 July – Bastille Day celebrations
- Fête Nationale and fireworks, Chamonix
- Concert and Fête Nationale with the Les
Houches municipal wind band, Servoz
Saturday 14 July
Bastille Day celebrations
- Fête Nationale and ceremony,
Chamonix; firework display, Argentière
- Refreshments, firework display and
Dance at the Lac des Chavants,
Les Houches
Saturday 14 July
Vallorcine: concert by Echo du Buet
in Place de la Gare, dance
and firework display
Tuesday 17 July
Concert, Baroque festival, Vallorcine
Church
Thursday 19 and Friday 20 July
Servoz en Ébullition
Music, meal and film showing, Servoz
Monday 23 July to Saturday 4 August
Festival Rencontres et Nature,
Les Houches & Servoz - 16th Festival
Wednesday 24 to Sunday 29 July
Cosmojazz Festival, Chamonix Valley
Thursday 2 August
Piano concert with Véronique Thual Chauvel, Vallorcine Church
Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 August
45th minerals fair, Chamonix
Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 August
Musicaltitude Festival, Chamonix
Friday 10 to Sunday 12 August
Mountain Film Festival, Chamonix
38
Espace Tairraz
39
Sunday 12 to Wednesday 15 August
Fête des Guides, Chamonix
Wednesday 15 August
Village fête and festival of artisan
traditions, Vallorcine
Wednesday 15 August
Craft market, Servoz.
Monday 27 August
to Sunday 2 September
The North Face® Ultra-Trail
du Mont-Blanc®, Chamonix Valley
15 and 16 September
European Heritage Open Days
Chamonix Valley
Sunday 30 September
Trail des Aiguilles Rouges
Sunday 7 October
Chirvathlon: running, road cycling and
mountain biking race, Servoz
Sunday 14 October
Sheep Fair, Servoz
Practical information
Practical information
G E T T I N G
H E R E
LOCAL TRAVEL
Road
Rail
Air
•Road travel information
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 05 51
SNCF railway stations in the resorts
St Gervais - Le Fayet / Vallorcine / Martigny (CH) line.
TGV Connections: Annecy, Bellegarde, Genève, Lausanne
•Geneva International Airport
(88 km)
Tel +41 (0) 22 717 71 11
•Via France
Accessed directly via the Autoroute Blanche (A40),
which connects to the European motorway network.
•Via Switzerland
Motorway to Martigny, Col de la Forclaz,
Col des Montets.
•Lyon - Saint Exupéry International Airport
(220 km)
Tel +33 (0)8 26 800 826
SNCF information:
www.ter-sncf.com
www.voyages-sncf.com
•Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport
(Annecy - 90 km)
Tel +33 (0)4 50 27 30 06
•Via Italy
15 km from the border via the Mont-Blanc Tunnel.
Coach services
& airport transfers
Daily connections with Geneva and Italy.
Lausanne
Londres
Paris
•SAT
Tel/Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15
www.sat-montblanc.com
SUISSE
Mont-Blanc Express Train
•The SNCF line serves all the villages from Saint Gervais / Le Fayet to Martigny (Switzerland), via Servoz,
Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine.
•Travel on the SNCF line from Servoz to Vallorcine is
free and unlimited to holders of a Carte d’Hôte guest
card provided by your accommodation provider on
arrival.
Trains run approximately every hour.
Information: at SNCF railway stations
Or on the websites:
www.ter-sncf.com
www.voyages-sncf.com
Bus / Shuttle services
Genève
Scheduled urban transport services throughout the
valley (free between Servoz and Le Tour to holders of
a Carte d’Hôte guest card provided by your accommodation provider on arrival).
Vallorcine
Servoz
Lyon
Alternatives to the car:
unlimited use of rail and bus
services throughout the Valley
Chamonix Bus
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 05 55
Fax +33 (0)4 50 55 95 59
[email protected]
www.chamonix-bus.com
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Annecy
ITALIE
Les Houches
Mont-Blanc
4810m
Milan
40
CAR PARKS / TAXIS
PRIVATE TRANSPORT
W E A TH E R / S A FE TY
Car parks in Chamonix
7-day forecast updated 3 times a day
+33 (0)8 99 71 02 74
[email protected]
www.meteo.fr
Weather bulletins posted at the Maison
de la Montagne and Tourist Office.
4,000 parking spaces.
3 covered car parks: Chamonix sud,
Saint Michel and Place du Mont-Blanc.
Parking for up to 1 hour: free.
Free ‘Les Mulets’ shuttle service around the town
centre.
Chamonix Parc Auto
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 65 71
Car parks in Les Houches
Le Tourchet: 60 spaces
Village centre: 80 spaces
Les Chavants: 200 spaces
Taxis, private transport
A list of taxi firms and private transport operators is
available on request from the tourist offices.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS / USEFUL NUMBERS
Météo France
Météo Chamonix
5-day forecast
www.chamonix.com
Pôle montagne risk
Mountain weather information and safety display.
Free admission..
Maison de la Montagne
Open Monday to Saturday from
9am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm.
[email protected]
Office de Haute-Montagne
A central point providing comprehensive information
on conditions and safety in the mountains.
Fire service 18
SAMU (medical emergencies) 15
Overnight, Sunday and public
holiday service
•International emergency number
from a mobile phone: 112
•Out-of-hours doctor and pharmacy
15
•Ambulances
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 46 20
•Out-of-hours dentist
Tel +33 (0)4 50 66 14 12
•Chamonix Hospital
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 84 00
509, route des pélerins - Chamonix
•Sallanches Hospital
Tel +33 (0)4 50 47 30 30
380, rue de l’hôpital - Sallanches
(has a haemodialysis centre)
•Medical analysis laboratory
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 07 25
32, rue Helbronner - Chamonix
•P.G.H.M (mountain rescue)
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 16 89
69, route de la Mollard - Chamonix
There are general practice surgeries in Servoz,
Les Houches, Chamonix and Argentière, plus many
specialists: paediatrics, cardiology, dermatology,
ophthalmology, etc.
Full list available on request from
the Tourist Offices.
Document not legally binding – Prices are for information
purposes and in euros.Photograph & illustration rights:
Bozon J-Chappaz S-Poirot JCH-Labarbe P-Dalmasso M-Cie du Mont BlancColonel M-Esope-Cosmojazz-Music Altitude-Club des Sports Chamonix-UTMB-Goy
B-Hotel Albert 1er-Parc de Loisirs des Planards-Golf Club Chamonix-Espace Tairraz-Cie des Guides-Ravanel D-Herbke S-Office de Tourisme Les Houches & Servoz
sunt-fotolia.com
Maison de la Montagne
Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm
and 3pm to 6pm.
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 22 08
www.ohm-chamonix.com
[email protected]
Translation: La Rose des Vents
Design/Production: Publicis Activ Annecy +33 (0)4 50 52 64 94
Manufactured by Beecom Direct
“Imprim’vert“-certified printing
41
Tourist offices
Vallorcine
Servoz
Les Houches
Les Houches and Servoz Tourist Office***
Les Houches and Servoz Tourist Office***
Le bouchet - F-74310 Servoz
Tel +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68
[email protected] - www.servoz.com
BP 09 - F-74310 Houches
Tel +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 - Fax +33(0)4 50 55 53 16
[email protected] - www.leshouches.com
Le Betté - F-74660 Vallorcine
Tel +33 (0)4 50 54 60 71
Fax : +33(0)4 50 54 61 73
[email protected] - www.vallorcine.com
>Opening hours
>Opening hours
>Opening hours
July and August: Monday to Saturday from 9am to
12pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Other dates: 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm
Closed on Sundays and public holidays
15 June to 15 September:
Daily from 8.30am to 12pm and 2.15pm to 6.30pm
Other dates: 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm
Closed on Sundays and public holidays
July and August:
Daily from 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Other periods: 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm
Closed on Sundays, Wednesdays and public holidays
www.servoz.com
Holiday planner
Prepare your holiday in Servoz and Les Houches the easy way
with the new online tool available on our websites.
Tell us what you’re looking for and what you want to do and we’ll
provide you with various suggestions and all the information you
need to personalise your holiday. You can go back to and change
your selections at any time. Create your “holiday planner” at
www.servoz.com or wwww.leshouches.com
www.leshouches.com
“Famille Plus Montagne” label:
The resort of Les Houches is one of the French resorts awarded
the “Famille Plus Montagne” label.
This label is granted in recognition of the facilities and services
provided for families and children, and the resort undertakes
to provide a personalised welcome and events and activities
suitable for guests of all ages at great prices, with improved
awareness by resort professionals of what children want.
www.vallorcine.com
Vallorcine Tourist Office**
Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Argentiere
Chamonix Tourist Office****
Argentière Tourist Office ****
85, place du Triangle de l’Amitié - BP 25
74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Cedex
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 00 24 - Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 58 90
[email protected] - www.chamonix.com
24, route du Village - 74400 Argentière
Tel +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 - Fax +33 (0)4 50 54 06 39
[email protected]
www.chamonix.com
>Opening hours
From Mid-April to the end of June:
Daily from 9am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pm
From July to mid-September:
Daily non-stop from 9am to 7pm
www.argentiere.com
“Best of the Alps” is the brand shared by the very best
holiday destinations throughout the Alps.
Each member of this prestigious group meets the most
demanding requirements of its international clientèle.
An ultra-modern infrastructure, the unspoilt atmosphere
of a mountain village, warm, friendly and top-quality service
and a full range of services both summer and winter ensure
that you will have a wonderful and unforgettable holiday.
>Opening hours
June and September:
Monday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to
6pm. Closed on Sundays
July and August:
Daily from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 7pm
The “Best of the Alps” village destinations
wish you a cordial welcome!
“Notre Village Terre d’Avenir” label:
This label, awarded by the Association Nationale Notre
Village Terre d’Avenir (recognised by the French Ministry
of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and the Sea
as an expert body in the implementation of the Agendas
21 by rural local authorities), enables a local Agenda
21 programme of environmental, economic and social
initiatives to be pursued.
TOURIST OFFICES
This brand proves conformity with standard NF X 50-730
and the NF237 certification rules.
It guarantees that the tourist activities and information
and the evaluation and improvement of service
quality are regularly checked by AFNOR Certification.
11 rue Francis de Pressensé - 93571 La Plaine Saint-Denis
Cedex - France
www.marque-nf.com
Ces labels concernent l’Office de Tourisme de Chamonix Mont-Blanc
42
43
“E XPERIENCE WINTER IN
THE C HAMONIX M ONT -B LANC
VALLEY “