Valley - Chamonix Lettings Main Page
Transcription
Valley - Chamonix Lettings Main Page
The S i n g u y r l a l l r a u p l Chamonix Mont-Blanc SERVOZ winter Valley 2010 VALLORCINE CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC LES HOUCHES The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley Winter activities and particularly winter holidays are a source of well-being that stays with you all year long. You want to make the very most of this rare pleasure and opportunity for revitalising, filling your body and mind with feelings and sensations. Our priority is to make sure you have everything you need to make your mountain holiday a success. The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley, with its four municipalities, can fulfil the most varied holiday needs and desires. Mythical Chamonix, family-style Les Houches, authentic Servoz, back-to-nature Vallorcine: each has a distinct character that will no doubt reflect your own. We strive to preserve the appeal of our mountains and to enhance our cultural and natural heritage by offering a diversity of activities and services in addition to the various types of skiing. Thus we make tourism richer and more attractive, but also more consistent and responsible. To truly understand The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley concept, this winter, take the cog-train that links up our four municipalities, from Servoz to Vallorcine. More than simply alternative tryearsport, this link will make you aware of what the Valley is really all about, a Valley both singular and plural at the same time. Enjoy your holidays in the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley. The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley Tourist Offices. T h e s i n g u l a r l y p l u r a l V a l l e y Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley Your first contact with The Chamonix MontBlanc Valley is bound to be the most authentic. With a front-row view of Mont Blanc, Servoz opens the doors to the Valley, giving you a first taste of its most majestic offerings. The village’s architecture, culture and nature are beautifully intact. The art of taking time to live life fully is cultivated here. Your trip will take you through immaculate white spaces, sheltered by the spectacular Fiz mountains. The Mont-Blanc Express cog-train will open your eyes to all the pleasures of sliding and gliding! SERVOZ Authenticity Nestled in the heart of the Mont-Blanc Massif, the Les Houches village-resort offers you an outstanding panoramic view of the Aiguilles de Chamonix. Take the privilege of skiing down its legendary «La Verte des Houches», the World Cup downhill piste, or glide more peacefully along trails opened up in the forest. This family resort, with its string of hamlets, is faithful to the traditional image of mountain holidays. Intense, sporty and contemplative moments will forge your memories as you follow your fancy… LES HOUCHES Family-style VALLORCINE Back to nature The most protected of the Valley’s villages, Vallorcine, near the Swiss border, is also the closest to nature. Here, the flora and fauna are treated as ultimate preserved jewels. Magnified by winter, this resort is a favourite for holidays with a blend of sports and contemplation. With Alpine skiing, ski-Joëring (pulled by horses) and ski touring, Vallorcine holds many prized secrets to be revealed to you bit by bit as your holiday unfolds. CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC Mythical Everything here plays a part in the legend. Look up! You’re in the centre of the myth, at the foot of Mont Blanc, with sheer happiness within range. Pick up your ears and listen to the heartbeat of a town in the mountains, magical and unique at the same time. Hold out your hand and be welcomed into a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Between pleasure skiing and extreme snow riding, you can enjoy the more city-like or festive activities of a town centre animated by day and by night. There’s no need to be a champion to be part of the legend. Like the multiple landscapes that give rhythm to the Valley, our ski areas let families and friends discover and alternate among the many and varied pleasures of skiing. Downhill skiing, snowboarding, telemark, freeriding, freestyle, snow park, speedriding, ski touring, unforgettable off-piste skiing… For beginners or experts, the quality of our facilities and natural sites is unrivalled for experiencing sensations «in the plural», facing mont Blanc. G g n i lid , » l a r u pl e h t « i n fa c i n g c n a l B mont Perpetual snow ! The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley and all of its stakeholders are actively striving to reduce the ecological footprint of tourism and winter sports activities in the mountains. Managing travel between sites and ski areas (free trains and shuttle service in the Valley for holders of the ‘Carte d’Hôte’ guest card given out on arrival by your host), rigorous water management, environmental management system, awareness-building with guests… responsible action by all is the key to preserving the quality of our snow-covered mountains for the generations to come! Exceptional skiing La Vallée Blanche This legendary off-piste* trail offers a unique spectacle of snowy waves and mountain ridges, providing an incredible feeling of immensity. After a 20-minute ascent by cable car, you set out from the peak of the Aiguille du Midi for a nearly 3000 m descent, ending in the centre of Chamonix. It is simply one of the longest glacier trails in Europe (22 km), open until May, conditions permitting and accessible to competent skiers in the company of a guide. La Verte des Houches Don’t be mistaken by the name («green»). This is the mythical World Cup downhill ski piste! You can hurtle down or visit this genuine symbol of Alpine skiing heritage at your own pace. Created in 1948 to host the downhill race of the first Chamonix Kandhar World Cup, it has witnessed 60 years of top-level skiing. * Contact our mountain professionals to take advantage of our world-renowned off-piste trails in the best, most enjoyable and safest conditions. Wide open skiing (Grands Montets) Panoramic skiing (Brévent / Flégère) Nature skiing (Le Domaine de Balme) The spot “par excellence” for off-piste skiing and freeriding. This resort is known and recognised by skiers and snowboarders the world over for the length of its pistes, the quality of its snow, its off-piste areas and its snowpark listed in the best guidebooks. The resort is open every year up to 10 May. «Sunshine» skiing, facing the Mont-Blanc range. The southerly slopes of this resort make it a favourite with sun-loving skiers and snow riders of all levels. The views of the Mont-Blanc range are exceptional. Skiing between high mountain pastures and forests on the Swiss borders. This area is accessible to skiers of all levels and ages from both sides of the mountain, by gondolas from Le Tour and Vallorcine. Balme offers both wide, gentle pistes, with more technical skiing in the forest on the Vallorcine side. Multiple skiing (Les Houches) The international reputation of Les Houches is built on its World Cup downhill piste «La Verte des Houches», but the resort is also an ideal terrain for learners. The best illustration is the new beginners’ area at the top of the Le Prarion gondola, equipped with a chairlift and «magic carpet». The forest trails are a delight for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, as is the Bellevue snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts. Cross-country / Nordic skiing The Valley’s rich variety of itineraries. In the heart of the Valley or on the crests of Alpine domains, the many paths for novices and seasoned cross-country skiers will lead you to forests, high mountain pastures and lakes. Exceptional sights! For as long as people can remember, and even before it became the prime winter sports destination in the history of skiing, The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley has always been a leisure destination and a territory for conquests. You are in the heart of the highest Alpine massif in Europe! With an unequalled choice of activities on offer! Spectacular… Stroll or Hike By foot, snowshoes or mountaineering skis, you’ll discover a wealth of itineraries in the Valley to immerse yourself in generous Nature. The paths will also lead you to hidden scenic gems, view-points, hamlets and mountain cabins, reserved for hikers in search of authentic mountain life. In good company! For unforgettable moments, discover or rediscover the original pleasures of snow in the company of snow-lovers: ski-Joëring, pulled by docile Comtois horses, sled dogs to share the life of professional mushers and many other 100% nature activities as well. Playground The simple and irreplaceable pleasures of play. Snowball fights, sledge races and igloo-building… Test your sense of balance on ice skates or with tree acrobatics… Good fun is in store! A rush of adrenaline Ski-touring in powder snow, ice climbing, paragliding, mythical end-of-season ascensions, rock climbing… With leading specialists to guide you, discover the mountains… genuine mountains that deserve our utmost respect. Peaceful contemplation For a lazy afternoon gazing at the most stunning panoramas in the Alps, you have easy access to the sunny terraces of our high altitude restaurants. Grandiose, fabulous, majestic, magnificent… During your stay, you’re likely to run out of adjectives to describe the sensations. Here, hearts beat stronger in contact with the snow, eyes widen at the sights. Here, more than elsewhere, nature is thrilling. For thrill-seekers, the Valley has what it takes to make your adrenaline rise... Take your pick: intense shivers or extreme sensations? y l r a l u g Sin noautnutraailns m Preserving the mountains To protect nature and the biodiversity of our living heritage, we multiply actions in favour of wildlife: preservation of natural sites, marking out of animals’ hibernation zones, forest management, the development of rural tourism and regional produce, monitoring of the climate and ecosystems… These initiatives are real and concrete. Although winter sports are la Vallée de Chamonix Mont-Blanc’s leading activity, a multitude of other enjoyable pastimes to share with family or friends are offered to fill your holidays with special moments to remember. During your stay, whether you’re a skier or a visitor fascinated by exceptional sites, you can take advantage of numerous infrastructures where the comfort and enjoyment of your holidays come first. a l e R n o i t a x «in ura l p e th l» Sustainable tourism Changing our consumption patterns doesn’t necessarily mean doing without. The Valley has adopted a reasoned approach to managing the development of tourism, preserving both the local economy and the environment. With controlled urban development, the preservation and restoration of the architectural heritage, the creation of accomodation for seasonal workers, the Valley is mobilised for action. A softer type of responsible-citizen consumption, compatible with pleasure, is a duty for everyone. A welcoming place Hospitality is a tradition in the Haute-Savoie. The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley offers a wide range of accommodation, from the most authentic to the most luxurious, in the centre of town or in the hamlets sprinkled along the Valley. According to your requirements, for family holidays or professional conventions or seminars, you’ll be welcomed in accommodation tailored to fit your needs. Partying on the menu in the mountains Given to you for free by your accommodation provider, the guest card offers many advantages, in particular free tryearsportation in the Valley by bus and train from Servoz to Vallorcine. Request your «Advantages of the Guest Card» brochure from the Tourist Offices. Take in the action during the day and also at night. The Valley offers very lively (or calmer) town and village life. There are numerous traditional and gourmet restaurants to indulge your taste buds and night-birds can live it up with a choice of entertainment, clubs, shows and events. Let the party begin! How good it feels! Holidays are about feeling good. To top off your experience of Alpine well-being, the Valley offers you a wide selection of spas, heated pools, Turkish baths, fitness, massages, aromatherapy: what could feel better after a day of skiing… or intense shopping? Villages and hamlets: the Valley’s Crown Jewels The Valley overflows with treasures… Take time out of time in Servoz where the architecture is still intact and the Savoyard culture preserved. Succumb to the charms of the hamlets of Le Buet, Le Tour, Les Tines or Les Praz… Let your desire to discover the valley lead you to Vallorcine, where precious moments await you. And as if the Valley was not enough? The Valley is a cultural melting pot. With Switzerland and Italy so close by, this comes as no surprise. During the ski season, people of many nationalities flock to our resorts, giving The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley a rich cosmopolitan flavour. You may also feel like a trip across the border to our nearby neighbours’. But you’ll quickly come back to the Valley, your home away from home. Activities for children are the guarantee of a successful holiday, for children and parents alike. According to your children’s ages, Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley staff offer supervision and a full programme of children’s activities so that you can fully and serenely enjoy your stay. Ski or ramble to your heart’s content, with your mind at ease! Together, let’s design tomorrow’s valley s y a d i Hol gular n i s e h t en, in r d l i h c r fo ural or the pl The education of children is one of the keys to the success of our sustainable development policy. When children come to The Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley, it’s an opportunity to build their environmental awareness. This is the aim of our «Together, let’s design tomorrow’s valley» programme explained in the brochure wich you can download from the Servoz, Les Houches and Vallorcine Internet sites and the Chamonix environment blog. Eyes on the summits, feet in the snow Between games and learning activities, the assortment of mountain pleasures for children is large: snow garden, tobogganing, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, outdoor skating and much more… Private or group lessons, multi-activity sessions for your children to make progress enjoyably in good hands. Local culture to be shared The Valley is full of traditions we’re anxious to share with children. Sled dogs, ski-Joëring, discovery farms, museums, Saint-Bernard kennel visit: unforgettable moments to be spent discovering the local culture. Family spirit Many professionals in the Valley offer services that cater for families and children, whether accommodation, sports, entertainment or cultural activities. The Valley’s Tourist Offices can provide you with special guidebooks and leaflets designed for holidays with children. l a c i t Prac e d i u r e g t n i w FIND ALL USEFUL INFORMATION FOR ORGANISING YOUR STAY AND DOWNLOAD OUR BROCHURES FROM OUR VARIOUS WEB SITES. 0 1 0 2 Contents Ski-pass for Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley 14 Passes for ski resorts & ski-lifts 16 Skiing and snowboarding schools & Mountain sports professionals 18 SERVOZ www.servoz.com Sports activities & Leisure activities 20 Facilities for children 24 Culture, heritage & handicrafts 26 Useful information 28 Diary of events 31 LES HOUCHES www.leshouches.com CHAMONIXMONT-BLANC www.chamonix.com VALLORCINE www.vallorcine.com Ski-pass for Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley « Mont Blanc Unlimited » One pass, three countries… to enjoy the best of “Mont Blanc” in total freedom… Information and prices are given for general guidance only, and are subject to modification. This document is not contractually binding - 16 August 2009 In France… In Switzerland... • Unlimited access to ski areas in the Chamonix Mont Blanc Valley: Les Grands Montets, Brévent-Flégère, Balme, Les Houches, La Vormaine, Les Chosalets, Le Savoy and Les Planards. Verbier - 4 Vallées ski area (accessible with a pass for 6 days or more): an “unlimited” area for all forms of snow sports. • Unlimited access to excursion sites: Aiguille du Midi cable car (access to Vallée Blanche) Montenvers - Mer de Glace train (return from Vallée Blanche) Mont Blanc Tramway In Italy... Courmayeur ski area (1,224 m – 2,624 m): just 20 minutes from Chamonix by road, this charming ski area has a variety of slopes for skiers of all levels, in a sunny wooded environment, not to mention the quality of Italian cuisine that provides very pleasant gourmet breaks. Périmètre MONT BLANC Unlimited Périmètre CHAMONIX Le Pass Périmètre des Houches Périmètre de la Poya > Voir détails forfaits stations en pages suivantes 14 Top quality interlinked ski areas where you can enjoy a tremendous day’s skiing. With your Mont Blanc Unlimited pass, the Ski Safari is open to you in Chamonix Valley. Every day, you will discover a new ski area in the Valley, in Italy or Switzerland: Brévent/Flégère, Grands Montets, Balme, Les Houches, Courmayeur and Verbier; not forgetting our smaller ski areas, situated at altitudes between 1,000 and 1,600 m: Tourchet, Planards, Savoy, Chosalets and Vormaine. Your Mont Blanc Unlimited pass is also your passport for discovering the Aiguille du Midi, the Montenvers-Mer de Glace train and the Mont Blanc Tramway. Adult Concession Senior citizen Family 16-64 years 4-15 years & 65-74 years 75 years or more 2 adults + 1 or more child 49,50 € 97,00 € 145,00 € 181,00 € 216,00 € 240,00 € 39,60 € 77,60 € 116,00 € 144,80 € 172,80 € 192,00 € 24,80 € 48,50 € 72,50 € 90,50 € 108,00 € 120,00 € 123,80 € 242,50 € 362,50 € 452,50 € 540,00 € 600,00 € Benefit from our first snow and spring ski promotional offers. The Mont Blanc Unlimited 3 day pass is available for the price of 2 days, and you have 25% reduction on the 6 day pass. B Consecutive days 1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days 6 days u on s If you have a “Mont Blanc Unlimited” pass, you can use free shuttles several times every day between Chamonix and Courmayeur… or, if you prefer to take your own vehicle, ask for half-price tickets for your crossings through the Mont Blanc Tunnel. Further information is available at compagniedumontblanc.com 15 Resort & ski-lift passes With the resort passes, you can have access to each of the ski areas individually. You have the choice between “Chamonix Le Pass” covering the ski areas from Chamonix to Vallorcine, the “Les Houches” pass, and the “Poya” pass in Vallorcine. « CHAMONIX Le Pass » See page 14 The “Mont Blanc Unlimited” and “Chamonix Le Pass” ski passes are obligatorily printed on hands-free badges. Sold for 3€, these reusable badges can be recharged as often as required, on the spot or via the Internet. You can also use them for making your on-line bookings of open carrier lifts for the Grands Montets summit lift. For skiing in Chamonix, in total freedom, on groomed slopes, at altitudes of up to 2,700 m! Unlimited access to the following ski areas: Les Grands Montets (excluding the Lognan-Grands Montets top cable car), Brévent-Flégère, Domaine de Balme, La Vormaine, Les Chosalets, Le Savoy, Les Planards. INFORMATION/PURCHASING SKI PASSES ON-LINE/CABLE CAR RESERVATIONS www.compagniedumontblanc.com or +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75 Information applicable to “Mont Blanc unlimited” and “Chamonix Le Pass”: • These two ski passes are available for up to 21 days. • Photograph obligatory for 10 days or more. • Free use of Chamonix Bus ski resort shuttles. COME AND SKI WITH ALL THE FAMILY! Buy 2 adult ski passes at the full price + 1 child pass (4-15 years) at 50% of the adult price, and it’s FREE for all your other children! Information and prices are given for general guidance only, and are subject to modification. This document is not contractually binding. Consecutive days 4 h Chrono 1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days 6 days Adult Concession Senior citizen Family 16-64 years 4-15 years & 65-74 years 75 years or more 2 Adults + 1 or more child 35,00 € 40,00 € 75,00 € 110,00 € 145,00 € 180,00 € 200,00 € 28,00 € 32,00 € 60,00 € 88,00 € 116,00 € 144,00 € 160,00 € • 20,00 € 37,50 € 55,00 € 72,50 € 90,00 € 100,00 € • 100,00 € 187,50 € 275,00 € 362,50 € 450,00 € 500,00 € Benefit from our first snow and spring ski promotional offers: save €10 on the 4 hours and day passes. Vallorcine See page 14 LA POYA Slopes: blue, green, red. Just 5 minutes walk from Le Buet railway station is a small family ski area with 2 ski lifts, 1 rope tow for beginners and 1 rope tow for small children. Snacks available on the spot, terrace with deckchairs. Tel.: +33 (0)6 82 11 53 21 - +33 (0)4 50 54 62 80 http://la.poya.free.fr/ Consecutive days 1/2 day 1 day 6 days Adult 9,50 € 12,50 € 62,50 € Junior Senior Enfant 12-16 years 60 years or more 4-11 years 7,50 € 10,50 € 52,50 € 7,50 € 10,50 € 52,50 € 7€ 9€ 45 € Not accessible with the Mont Blanc Unlimited and Chamonix le Pass ski passes. 16 SERVOZ LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC VALLORCINE Les Houches See page 14 Les Houches 2010 passes Discover the pleasure of relaxed skiing with your family or friends in forests of larch and fir, or go for a challenging ski run on: Artificial snow coverage and airpark in Bellevue. • our 2 black slopes [for experts only] including the famous “Verte des Houches” World Cup downhill slope Bellevue SEPP cable car • 12 red slopes - 6 blue slopes - 4 green slopes and 1 toddlers’ ski school • 1 cable car - 1 gondola lift - 8 chair lifts - 7 ski lifts and 2 rope tows Le Prarion LHSG gondola lift www.leshouches-prarion.fr • Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 42 65 Number of days skiing Adult Child Youth & Senior 21-59 years 5-11years 12-20 60-74 4 hours 1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days 6 days 27.00 € 32.80 € 59.80 € 89.70 € 119.60 € 150.30 € 164.00 € 18.90 € 23.00 € 41.90 € 62.80 € 83.70 € 105.20 € 114.80 € www.ski-leshouches.com • Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 40 32 24.30 € 29.50 € 53.80 € 80.70 € 107.60 € 135.30 € 147.60 € Senior citizen Tribu 3 Tribu 4 Tribu 5 75 years or more 3 persons including at least 1 minor 4 persons including at least 2 minors 5 persons including at least 3 minors 13.50 € 16.40 € 29.90 € 44.90 € 59.80 € 75.20 € 82.00 € 61.30 € 74.50 € 135.70 € 203.60 € 271.50 € 341.20 € 372.30 € 73.40 € 89.20 € 162.70 € 244.00 € 325.30 € 408.80 € 446.10 € 78.30 € 95.10 € 173.40 € 260.10 € 346.80 € 435.90 € 475.60 € This pass is also available starting late morning from 11am, and for 7 and 8 days. All passes must be displayed by a hands-free badge (which costs €2 or €3). New: From the opening of the installations on 18 December and from 3 April until their closure, the Les Houches ski-lifts propose “nice price” passes. Information from the Tourist Office and at www.leshouches.com F On-line purchase: If you have a credit card and a hands-free badge, then it is very easy to buy your ski pass via the Internet on the following websites: www.skipass-leshouches.com - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 40 32 www.leshouches-prarion.fr - Tel.: +33 (0) 04 50 54 42 65 u r e th r i n fo r ma t i COME AND SKI WITH ALL THE FAMILY! Tribu ski-pass in a resort with “Family and mountain” certification. Our passes adapt to your family: they are available for two adults + one, two or three minors. on Complete detailed “Prices and plans of slopes” are available on request from Tourist Offices or from ski-lift services. All information is available directly from their websites. In the heart of the resorts Whether you are young beginners or advanced skiers, we propose a wide range of small ski areas, directly accessible from resort or village, ideal if you don’t want to lose a minute of sunshine. If being able to go straight to the slopes wearing your skis is a pleasant aspect of your holidays, then you will enjoy these valley ski areas. Prices available on the resorts’ websites. LE TOURCHET SKI LIFTS Ski area for beginners in the village of Les Houches, with free night skiing every Thursday. Every Thursday during school holidays in December and February, the École de Ski Français skiing school organises a torch-light snack. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 49 60 LA VORMAINE (1,480 m)* A very sunny ski area with a lot of snowfall, in Le Tour village, for beginners and medium-level skiers. Ideal for children and small children (day-care centre) and for beginners in snowsurfing. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 06 42 LES CHOSALETS (1 230 m)* A spacious training area for beginners, ideal for children,just before the bridge on the right side next to the chapel, on the road going into Argentière, 500 m from the starting point of the Lognan cable car. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 03 92 LE SAVOY (1 049 m - 1 125 m)* Right in the middle of Chamonix, at the bottom of Le Brévent. Ideal slopes for beginners and especially children, served by 2 ski lifts and a moving walkway. Artificial snow. Day-care centre. Compagnie du Mont-Blanc - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75 LES PLANARDS (1 062 m - 1 242 m)* In the town centre of the largest ski area for beginners and children. 5 slopes: red, blue and green; day-care centre. Guaranteed sunshine and snow coverage. Bar-restaurant, solarium, and free car park. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 08 97 * Accessible with “Chamonix Le Pass” 17 Ski and snowboard schools & Mountain sports professionals École de Ski Français ski school, Les Houches Lessons for beginners and advanced ones in all snow sports techniques or discovery of the snowy slopes of Europe’s highest Alpine mountain range. Our staff of passionate enthusiasts are at your disposal to ensure that you enjoy the pleasures and sensations of winter sports as much as possible. évolution 2 Ski School Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 90 22 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 55 91 33 350 Avenue de la plage - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] www.evolution2-chamonix.com • Prarion office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 48 79 • Bellevue office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 34 61 79 www.esf-leshouches.com - [email protected] • Chamonix - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 93 03 • Argentière - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 53 57 • Les Houches - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 41 02 or +33 (0)4 50 55 53 57 70 instructors and 2 offices at your service. Lessons in all winter sports and mountain sports (skiing, snowboarding, freeride, speed riding, and paragliding) are given in English, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian, for groups and individuals of all levels, including snowshoeing hikes with monitor. School of skiing, sports and adventure activities for adults and children, off-piste skiing, ski-touring, heli-skiing, Vallée Blanche. Children’s club for 3-10 year olds at Les Chavants day-care centre. Assistance and special equipment for self-learning are provided for disabled persons. Book on line 30 or 60 days before your arrival to benefit from reductions. SKI SENSATIONS Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 56 46 or +33 (0)6 82 10 59 22 Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 56 46 Cham’sport - 120, place du Poilu - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.ski-sensations.com École de Ski Français ski school, Chamonix Whether you are a beginner or an expert, let Ski Sensations instructors help you to make progress on or off the slopes by discovering the different ski areas in Chamonix Valley. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 57 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 65 30 Maison de la Montagne - 190 place de l’Église - 74400 Chamonix Chamonix: open every day from 08:15 to 19:00. [email protected] - www.esfchamonix.com On-line sale: www.esf.net/chamonix SUMMITS SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 50 14 or +33 (0)6 84 01 26 00 Fax: +33 (0)4 50 55 94 16 Immeuble le Mummery - 27, allée du Savoy - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.summits.fr 4 reception offices: • Chamonix-Sud - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 43 00 • Le Savoy - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 19 61 • Les Planards - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 82 41 • Foyer de cross-country skiing - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 11 15 A team of 250 persons to assist you on and off the slopes. Lessons for beginners and advanced in all disciplines. The “Children’s Clubs” take young skiers of all levels from 3 years old. Individual lessons from 4 years old. Telephone answering service until 22:00. UCPA LES GLACIERS Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 07 11 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 16 72 170, rue Charlet Straton - 74400 Argentière [email protected] - www.ucpa-argentiere.com École de Ski Français ski school, Argentière Sporting holidays for young people from 18 to 40 years old. Courses in skiing and snowboarding; off-piste, ski-touring. We can facilitate sports clubs. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 00 12 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 10 90 [email protected] - www.esf-argentiere.com On-line sale: www.vente-en-ligne-esf.com/argentiere 3 reception offices: • Central office: open every day from from 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 15:00 to 19:00. • Les Grands Montets - Tel./ Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 01 60 • Le Tour/Col de Balme office - Tel./ Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 01 57 UCPA ALPINE BASE CAMP Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 12 05 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 55 86 85 131, rue du Lyret - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.ucpa-chamonix.com Reliability, competence and pleasure. A team of 100 professionals teaches all mountain sports disciplines, from the most traditional to the most innovative. Particular care is taken with small children from 3 years old. • Winter: inclusive sports courses: SKIING, SNOWBOARDING, on- and off-piste skiing. From beginners to experts. • Spring: facilities for school groups: mountain sports clubs and association; events: seminars: training courses. École de Ski Français ski school, Vallorcine F Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 61 67 - www.ecole-ski-vallorcine.com [email protected] 2 information/sale/reception points: at the Vallorcine gondola lift and at the ski training facility in La Poya. The professionals of the ESF (École de Ski Français) skiing school in Vallorcine are attentive to your needs. Whatever your level, your language or your abilities, discover the pleasures of mountain and winter sports in total safety, in a friendly atmosphere in a preserved environment. 18 SERVOZ LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC VALLORCINE u h rt er i n fo r ma t io Complete detailed prices are available on request from the tourist Offices. All information is available directly from their websites. n COMPAGNIE DES GUIDES DE CHAMONIX MONT-BLANC Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 00 88 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 48 04 Maison de la Montagne - 190, place de l’Église - 74400 Chamonix Open every day from08:30 to 12:00 noon & 15:30 to 19:30. [email protected] www.chamonix-guides.com Other offices of the Compagnie des Guides: • Argentière - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 17 94 • Les Houches - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 50 76 & +33 (0)4 50 53 00 88 From winter mountaineering to snowshoeing at medium altitudes, including paragliding and the Vallée Blanche (an absolute “must”), our 200 guides welcome you every day in the “Maison de la Montagne”. MAISON DES GUIDES, Vallorcine www.maisondelamontagne-vallorcine.fr - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 60 69 Vary the pleasures, discover skiing differently, and understand the magical world of the mountains with a guide. Go skiing off-piste and on glaciers, heli-skiing, ice climbing, snowshoe hiking, etc. For every activity, there is a package to suit your budget and your preferences!... ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONALE DES GUIDES DU MONT-BLANC Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 27 05 - Fax: + 33 (0)4 50 53 83 19 98, rue des Moulins - BP 86 - 74402 Chamonix Open every day from 16:00 to 19:00. [email protected] www.guides-du-montblanc.com The office of the Guides du Mont Blanc [Mont Blanc Guides] operates all year round and proposes mountain sports activities, in summer and winter, in all the Alps. Mountaineering, climbing, off-piste skiing, ski-touring and ski treks, heli-skiing, steep slope skiing, canyoning, paragliding and hill-walking. ABSOLUTE CHAMONIX Tel.: +33 (0)6 08 23 92 65 390 Route des Gaillands - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.absolute-chamonix.com Paragliding tasters, speed-riding school, and high-mountain sports. A friendly, top-quality service with Caroline Brille, World Cup winner. AD HAUT VOL PARAGLIDING Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 98 01 or +33 (0)6 80 03 24 74 451, rue du Lyret - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] www.guides-du-montblanc.com/fr/paragliding.html On 7 October 1990, Alain Desez reached the top of Everest, at 8,848 m, and took off from the South Col by paragliding. On returning to Chamonix, he founded “Haut Vol”. Tandem paragliding, Vallée Blanche, off-piste skiing, snowshoeing, etc. Open every day all year. AILES DU MONT-BLANC Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 96 72 or +33 (0)6 20 46 55 57 24, avenue de la Plage - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] www.lesailesdumontblanc.com School of paragliding and speed-riding. Training for certificates, tandem paragliding, speed-riding tasters and lessons. A top-level team with 20 years experience of free flight. ANTECIMES SUMMITS PARAGLIDING Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 50 14 or +33 (0)6 84 01 26 00 Fax: +33 (0)4 50 55 94 16 Immeuble le Mummery - 27, allée du Savoy - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.summits.fr Since 1987, Chamonix paragliding school proposes tandem flights, training of all levels for groups or individuals, and mountain flights. AVENTURE EN TêTE SKI & MOUNTAIN SPORTS CHAMONIX PARAGLIDING Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 05 11 or +33 (0)6 81 02 84 89 420 Route du Chapeau - 74400 Chamonix Inter Sports - 620, route du Plagnolet - 74400 Argentière [email protected] www.aventureentete.com Tel.: +33 (0)6 61 84 61 50 or +33 (0)6 03 53 57 54 196 Avenue de Courmayeur - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.chamonix-paragliding.fr Off-piste skiing, Vallée Blanche, heli-skiing and trips. A team of professionals, based in Chamonix Valley since 1977, is attentive to your wishes, whether you are a beginner or an expert, and provides personalised packages for 1 to 5 people. CHAMONIX EXPERIENCE Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 09 36 or +33 (0)6 08 80 94 27 Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 09 88 Alpcenter - 141, rue Charlet Straton - 74400 Argentière Open every day from08:30 to 12:30 & 15:30 to 19:30. [email protected] - www.chamex.com Come and discover off-piste skiing, the Vallée Blanche, ice climbing or winter mountaineering, guided by our team of mountain adventure professionals. From a tandem taster flight to courses for groups or individuals, for beginners or advanced, Chamonix Paragliding assists you in making progress. Ecole de Ski Français des Houches Le Prarion office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 48 79 Bellevue office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 34 61 79 www.esf-leshouches.com - [email protected] School of speed riding and paragliding; training courses and private lessons. kaïlash adventure Tel.: +33 (0)6 08 01 27 34 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 10 52 77, ch. du Tacounet - 74400 Chamonix [email protected] - www.kailashadventure.com Skiing school for adults and children, off-piste skiing, Vallée Blanche, ski-touring, snowshoeing, heli-skiing, paragliding, etc. YAK ET YETI Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 53 67 Fax: +33 (0)4 50 55 84 40 Chemin des Alpes, rue Paccard 74400 Chamonix. [email protected] www.yak-yeti.com Skiing, mountaineering, trekking, paragliding. 19 Sports & Leisure activities There is something to suit all tastes in nature, and activities of all kinds are available in Chamonix Mont Blanc Valley. In addition to downhill skiing, we offer numerous activities to make your stay even more attractive. Cross-country skiing SERVOZ Depending on the snow coverage, it may be possible to go off-track cross-country skiing, with 2 to 3 circuits to enable beginners to make progress. You will perhaps cross the path of children from the local school who are also learning the joys of Nordic skiing. Tourist Office - Le Bouchet - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 Les Houches The Argentière ski area includes slopes for skiers of all levels, with an outstanding feature for advanced and experienced skiers: the Moraine slope will bring you through a larch forest with a magnificent view of the Mont Blanc mountain chain. Private and group skiing lessons with ESF ski schools in Chamonix and Argentière. Cross-country skiing centre - Tel.: +33(0)4 50 53 11 15 10 km of Nordic trails in the resort. Les Chavants site offers free access to cross-country skiers. Only the high altitude ski area accessible by means of the Prarion gondola lift requires the prior acquisition of a pedestrian return ticket. Exceptional 360° panoramic view. Two routes combine snow-fields and passages through forest. A short alternative route is possible: “the return route of the tired”. Depending on the snow coverage, it is possible to link to the Col de Voza. Vallorcine Group and private lessons are provided by the skiing schools. Hire of cross-country ski equipment, luges and snowshoes. ESF ski lessons, floodlit night circuit at Le Buet. 40 km of slopes from Chamonix to Argentière. In Chamonix, there is both natural and artificial snow coverage. Therefore the slopes are open for skiing from December to March. The ski area is ideal for both learning to ski in a fun way and for more experienced cross-country skiers. The Chamonix ski area is linked to that of Argentière by a “black slope” (for experts only) where the natural snow coverage is guaranteed all winter. Cross-country skiing centre Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 61 09 F CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC 10 km of slopes, depending on snow coverage, starting from Le Buet or from the Foyer de ski de fond (cross-country skiing centre) in Vallorcine. The route takes you through a picturesque, authentic site in a rolling, wooded ski area along the Eau Noire river. An obligatory card for admission to the ski area is on sale in the cross-country skiing centre. An introductory circuit for beginners is provided free of charge. Paths for Snowshoeing & Walkers u r e th r i n fo r ma t i The map of the backcountry ski touring areas is available on request from Tourist Offices or directly from the following websites: www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com SERVOZ CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC • Snowshoeing routes: several way-marked snowshoeing paths from the railway station, the Maison de l’Alpage, located in the village centre, to Lac Vert or Montvauthier, through orchards, forest and various hamlets in the Servoz area. Discover the splendour of the high Alps on foot. There are many varied ways to approach the mountains, at low or high altitudes. • Footpaths: along the “hamlets roads”, admire the preserved architecture of Servoz, the sunniest village in the Chamonix Valley. • Footpaths: 17 km of prepared trails for walkers, with all the diversity of nature in the Alps in winter. Maps are available from the Tourist Office or the Foyer de Fond [Cross-Country Skiing Centre]. Tourist Office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 Le Bouchet Vallorcine Les Houches • Snowshoeing routes: a way-marked route follows the crosscountry ski trail from the top of Prarion gondola lift. In the village, above Les Houches railway station, you can explore the Route des Crêts – also known as the “deer path”. • Footpaths: prepared, way-marked trails the length of the village. • Snowshoeing routes: 2 way-marked trails starting from Le Couteray and from Le Plan Envers. • Footpaths: at high altitude, a footpath leads from the Bellevue cable car, along the Mont Blanc tramway line and back to the Col de Voza. In the village, discover the hamlets of Les Chavants and Vaudagne. For these activities and outside of maintained way-marked routes, think of your safety and contact the mountain sports professionals, instructors, guides and monitors: see page 19. 20 SERVOZ LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC VALLORCINE on Panoramic views AIGUILLE DU MIDI CABLE CAR PANORAMIC FLIGHTS After a breathtaking two-stage ride in one of the world’s highest cable cars, you will reach the Aiguille du Midi (altitude 3,842 m). Surrounded by famous peaks whose names are linked to the finest conquests in mountaineering, you can admire the unique panoramic view of mont Blanc and the Alps. Panoramic flights in the Mont Blanc chain starting from Chamonix Valley. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75 MONTENVERS & MER DE GLACE TRAIN Discover the famous Mer de Glace in a winter setting, at the foot of Les Drus, La Verte and Les Grandes Jorasses. Above all, on arrival at the railway station, do not forget to visit the gallery of crystals, the exhibition on Alpine wildlife, and the ice cave. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75 LE PRARION GONDOLA LIFT From the top of the Les Houches ski area, admire an outstanding 360° panoramic view of the Mont Blanc chain, the Aiguilles of Chamonix, and the Aravis chain, with, as a bonus, the Aiguille de Bionnassay. Chamonix Mont Blanc Hélicoptères Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 13 82 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 13 89 [email protected] - www.chamonix-helico.fr HIGH-ALTITUDE RESTAURANTS Whether for a light snack or to taste specialities of the Savoy area, gourmet restaurants offer all tastes of the Alps in a natural setting for walkers or skiers. Every day, 16 high-altitude restaurants are happy to welcome you. There are clear views of the Mont Blanc chain from the terraces: a unique treat for the eyes and the taste buds. A list of restaurants is available from Tourist Offices and their websites: www.chamonix.com www.leshouches.com Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 42 65 With animals Merlet Animal Park Saint Bernard dog breeding centre Claire Cachat, the Park’s Manager and an animal carer, proposes a tour of the park and active participation in feeding the animals during the winter. Outstanding panoramic view of the Chamonix Valley. Afternoon tea in an Alpine chalet. 22 chemins des Vorziers - La Fontaine 74310 Les Houches Every Thursday from 13:00 to 17:30, depending on snow coverage, from 20/12 to 31/03. Booking is required. Coupeau 74310 Les Houches - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 47 89 www.parcdemerlet.com La Ferme à Payot [Payot Farm] 427 route du Pont 74310 Les Houches Tel.: +33 (0)6 87 41 71 57 - www.lafermeapayot.com Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 23 60 In a guided tour with commentary lasting one hour, Jean Pierre and Renée Dumont will tell you about this noble breed of dogs, which were first bred as guard dogs and then trained to find lost travellers by the monks of Grand St Bernard. Every day 10:00 to 11:30 & 14:00 to 17:30 except Sunday & Monday mornings. La Compagnie des ânes 55 chemin du Vieux Four - Vaudagne 74310 Les Houches Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 26 18 Walks with donkeys are available, by booking only, and depending on the snow coverage conditions. Pascal, a farmer and mountain leader, welcomes you, along with his goats, to visit this traditional farm. La Ferme de Vallorcine Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 16:00 to 19:00. Sylvie & Hubert Ehret Le plan droit 74660 Vallorcine Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 69 42 Direct sale of cheese and afternoon teas available by appointment. Direct sale on the farm: tomme cheese, fromage blanc (cottage cheese), serac cheese and charcuterie. Open 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 16:00 to 19:00 except Wednesdays & Sundays. 21 Sports & Leisure activities (continued) Outdoor activities Open-air skating rinks Ski Joëring In Les Houches: A natural skating rink in the village centre, open according to weather conditions. Free admission and hire of skates. Ski Joering Mont Blanc Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 52 99 In Chamonix: Open-air skating rink from December to February subject to weather conditions. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 12 36 In Vallorcine: New open-air skating rink. Free admission. Open for winter 2009/2010 Résidence Vallorcine Mont Blanc: skate hire. Christophe André, 504 chemin des eaux rousse. Tel.: +33 (0)6 13 08 33 58 - +33 (0)4 50 54 54 22 www.skijoeringmontblanc.com In Les Houches, discover skijoering, another ancestral snow sport, in total harmony with nature. Drawn by good-natured horses, this original form of back-country sking is respectful of the environment and tremendous fun! Activity adapted to both adults and children (from 6 years old), provided they can use a drag lift and maintain their skis parallel. New : winter pony trekking. L’attelage du Couteray Luge areas In Servoz, Chemin de la Tour à la Grangiat On the fair field in front of the village church, an area has been provided where young children can sledge under their parents’ supervision. Equipment can be hired from the Tourist Office. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 Pascal Berguerand - Reception chalet in Le Buet, beside the railway station Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 63 45 or +33 (0)6 15 17 30 23 Skijoering and horse-drawn sleighing,at the foot of the Aiguilles Rouges: tasters and outings (for individuals or groups – night rides possible). PAINT BALL In Les Houches, the Chavants luge site offers two small, safe, way-marked slopes. Tel.: +33 (0)6 07 36 01 51 - www.paintballcham.com Le Tourchet luge site: in the village centre. Equipment provided (protective wear + clothing), cartridges and compressed air. Around 2 hours of play (18 people max.). Equipment can be hired from the sports shops. In Chamonix: A sunny luge area facing Mont Blanc is provided on the way into the Bois du Bouchet, with a run more than 100 m long. Located at the “Stade” (entrance to the Bois du Bouchet). In Vallorcine: Packed luge slopes behind the Tourist Office. Arbre Aventure 285 route de coupeau 74310 Les Houches Tel.: +33 (0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com Prices and booking on request. In winter, activities depend on the snow conditions: booking is advised. Booking required. Minimum age: 12 years. Kid Paint Ball: specially for 6-10 year olds (with special equipment). DOGSLEDDING Philippe Van Compernolle www.evasion-nordique.com - Tel.: +33 (0)6 82 09 50 03 Beginner’s lessons in dogsled driving. Huskydalen [email protected] - www.huskydalen.com Tel.: +33 (0)6 84 99 34 67 Beginner’s lessons in dogsled driving. Day and half-day outings, and trapper evenings. Mont Blanc Forest in Coupeau: 75 adventure activities through the trees, covering an area of 3 hectares. Introduction and accompaniment by a professional instructor for the first 5 activities. Technical equipment provided. Kid Aventure in Coupeau: 15 ateliers and a completely safe course with a continuous life-line for small children. 22 SERVOZ LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC VALLORCINE Indoor activities Climbing room SWIMMING POOL, SAUNA & STEAM ROOM Mont Blanc Escalade - Les Trabets 74310 Les Houches Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 76 48 - www.montblancescalade.com Centre sportif Richard Bozon - 214, av. de la Plage - Chamonix Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 - sports@chamonix-Mont Blanc.fr Climbing room with 1,250 m2 of climbing surface, with more than 110 climbing routes for climbers of all levels. Admission to swimming pool: child (6 to 17 years old): €3.65, adult: €4.80 Aquagym: €8.90 per session. Admission to sauna & hammam (Turkish bath): €11.20 (including swimming pool) Open Monday to Friday 12:00 noon to 19:30 and Saturday & Sunday 14:00 to 19:30 (Christmas school holidays: 14:00 to 19:30). Monday to Friday 12:00 noon to 22:00 - Saturday 12:00 noon to 21:00, Sunday & holidays 12:00 noon to 20:00 – Christmas & February school holidays: 12:00 noon to 21:00. CLIMBING WALL Centre Sportif Richard Bozon - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 Admission €4.20. Open Monday to Friday 12:00 noon to 19:30 and Saturday & Sunday 14:00 to 19:30 (Christmas school holidays: 14:00 to 19:30). Prices and opening times may be subject to modification. BODY-BUILDING & FITNESS ROOM Prices and opening times are subject to modification. Centre sportif Richard Bozon Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 TENNIS & SQUASH Admission to body-building + swimming pool: €9.10 Admission to body-building only: €6.20 • Centre Sportif Richard Bozon - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 28 40 Every day from 09:00 to 12:15 & 14:00 to 19:15. • Les Iles - Argentière - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 09 59 Every day from 14:00 to 20:30. Tennis: 1 hour (2 people) indoor tennis: €15.50 Squash: 50 minutes (2 people): €8 Prices and opening times are subject to modification. INDOOR SKATING RINK Centre sportif Richard Bozon Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 12 36 Open Monday to Friday 12:00 noon to 20:00 and Saturday & Sunday 14:00 to 20:00. BOULES (FRENCH BOWLS) PITCH In the Espace Olca from November to April Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 52 64 - [email protected] Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday 14:00 to 20:00: free play Sunday: competition event 14:00 to 20:00 – open to all. CINÉMA Admission: child €3.65, adult €4.80. Skates hire: €3.40. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 14:00 to 17:00 (every day during the February holidays, 14:00 to 18:00). Night opening every Wednesday, 21:00 to 23:00. Prices and opening times may be subject to modification. CASINO Place de Saussure - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 07 65 Casino Barrière, Place HB de Saussure. Le Vox - Cour Bartavel - 3 screens Programme available on answering machine Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 03 39 Information - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 89 98 www.cinemavox-chamonix.com or www.chamonix.com Cinébus - Espace Olca Screenings in the Espace Olca every two weeks Programme available from Tourist Office Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 Fruit machines from 1 centime to €5, and table gambling games (English roulette, French roulette and blackjack). Restaurant, entertainment, events and shows all year round. BRIDGE Identity cards must be shown on entering the casino. Tournaments are held every Tuesday and Friday at 14:45. Bridge club: 49, rue du Lyret. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 54 10 “Rondes de France” tournament on first Tuesday and third Friday of every month. Well-being SPA, ESPACES DÉTENTE Discover all the benefits of a spa atmosphere in the mountains. Our centres invite you to share moments of pure well-being: beauty care or cosmetic care, saunas, hammams (Turkish baths) and spas. F A list of well-being centres is available from Tourist Offices. u h rt er i n fo r ma t io n All brochures on our activities and our professional staff are available on request from Tourist Offices or directly from their websites: www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com 23 Facilities for children Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley offers discovery programmes and spaces that are specially adapted for children, to ensure that learning is above all a pleasure. See also the “Culture” and “Diary” sections. Ski schools ÉCOLE DE SKI FRANÇAIS SKI SCHOOL, LES HOUCHES PANDA CLUB SKI SCHOOL - ÉVOLUTION 2 SKI SCHOOL www.esf-leshouches.com - [email protected] [email protected] – www.panda-club.com • Le Prarion central office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 49 79 • Bellevue office - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 34 61 79 • Chamonix - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 53 57 • Argentière - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 04 76 Toddlers’ ski learning area for 3 to 5 1/2 year-olds in the Le Prarion site. A specially-adapted ski lift is available. In collaboration with Les Chavants day-care centre, inclusive packages are provided for 3 to 10 year-olds, with skiing and a day-care service, for a day or a half day, with or without meals. ÉCOLE DE SKI FRANÇAIS SKI SCHOOL, CHAMONIX Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 57 - www.esfchamonix.com Two ski areas – Les Planards and Le Savoy – are reserved for children. The Piou Piou Club proposes services for complete care of your children from 3 to 12 years old, for a day or a half-day, including skiing lessons, meal, games and supervision. If your children have a competitive spirit or are keen on improving their performance, then choose competition training courses, according to the child’s age and level of skiing. [email protected] - www.panda-club.com Two reception points are connected by a free shuttle for children who are enrolled in a day course. A large toddlers’ ski learning area with top-quality supervisors and a heated chalet are provided at the bottom of the Argentière slopes for your children from 3 years old. Évolution 2 instructors will bring them to the Competition and Freeride classes with a maximum of 8 children per lesson, and our team of monitors will help them to enjoy great holidays in the snow. ÉCOLE DE SKI FRANÇAIS SKI SCHOOL, ARGENTIÈRE Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 00 12 - www.esf-argentiere.com The Piou Piou Club takes children for group lessons from three years old. With the “Teddy Lunch” day-care service packages adaptable to all types of group lessons, your child is taken care of during lunch-time, for a complete continuous day (with skiing lessons, meal, games and videos under supervision) or for a half-day. Two toddlers’ ski learning areas are at your disposal for beginners. ÉCOLE DE SKI FRANÇAIS SKI SCHOOL, VALLORCINE Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 61 67 - www.ecole-ski-vallorcine.com The Piou Piou Club with ESF (Ecole de Ski Français) monitors: in a specially protected and laid-out space with reception chalet and private rope tow. “Bébés skieurs” baby skiers club for 3 to 4 year-olds and “jardin des neiges” ski learning area for 4 to 5 year-olds. 24 SERVOZ LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC VALLORCINE Children’s club and day-care centre LES CHAVANTS CHILDREN’S CLUB DAY-CARE CENTRE Régie municipale d’animation (municipal events department) Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 43 33 Before 20 December - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 68 89 [email protected] Village centre - 74310 Les Houches Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 48 19 [email protected] Open 09/12/2009 to 09/04/2010 Every Saturday: enrolment from 15:00 to 18:00. Opening times during school holidays: 08:30 to 17 30 – outside school holidays: 11:30 to 17:30. For children from 3 months to 3 years old, subject to the availability of places. Open Monday to Friday. Reception of children from 18 months to 3 years old, Monday to Friday. Reception of children from 3 years old, Sunday to Friday. Activities available in the day-care centre: snow games, luge, creative workshops, entertainment and events. Prices : • 1 day with meal: €42.30 • Half-day with meal: €34.80 - without meal: €21.50 • Meal and 2 hours in day-care centre at lunchtime: €22.30 These services can be coordinated with the following ski packages that are proposed in partnership with the École de Ski Français ski school: • Boule de neige: 6 half-days ESF skiing lessons and 6 half-days in day-care centre with meals: €262 • Crocski: 6 half-days ESF skiing lessons and midday meal: €219 • Bouliski: 6 days ESF skiing lessons and midday meal: €297 Leisure Centres Maisons Familiale de Montvauthier M.J.C. [YOUTH CLUB] ACTIVITIES Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 20 65 email: [email protected] Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 12 24 For 6 to 12 year-olds during school holidays. “Les p’tits Bout’ch” leisure activities in Les Pèlerins for 3 to 5 year-olds. Early-learning activities and open-air activities. Leisure activities in Chamonix (in Maison pour tous community centre) for 6 to 11 year-olds. Occasional activities and events for pre-adolescents: enrolments for one week or for one day at a time. Activities for children JARDIN D’EAU [Toddlers’ paddling pool] TORCH-LIGHT PROCESSION Espace Nautique Richard Bozon - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 00 12 For children from 6 months to 3 years old. Admission €8.60. Saturday morning at 10:00. Every Wednesday evening during Christmas and February school holidays, on Les Chosalets ski slope. Prices and opening times are subject to modification. Organised by Argentière ESF. CLIMBING WALL Every Thursday during school holidays, a “torch-light snack” is organised by Les Houches ESF on the Tourchet ski slope, in the village centre. Centre Sportif Richard Bozon - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 Admission €4.20. Open Monday to Friday 12:00 noon to 19:30 and Saturday & Sunday 14:00 to 19:30 (Christmas school holidays: 14:00 to 19:30). • Children from 10 to 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult who also climbs. • Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a guide and must bring climbing shoes. F Free admission for children from 14 years old. u r e th r i n fo r ma t i on In addition to the activities provided by the organisations and facilities in the Valley, the Tourist Offices propose numerous events and activities for children and young people. Children’s Guide: All this information is to be found in booklets specially published by the Tourist Offices. 25 Culture, heritage & handicrafts Learn, understand and discover... Numerous facilities provide access to our rich natural and cultural heritage. Learning about our region means meeting the people of the Valley and getting to know our culture and our history! Every walk and visit will be an opportunity to discover the local handicrafts and the rich heritage of the Savoy area’s architecture, our churches, our oratory chapels and shrines, and our traditional chalets. Culture and heritage Musée Montagnard MUSÉE ALPIN (Alpine Museum) 2 Place de l’Église - 74310 Les Houches [email protected] - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 54 74 Three rooms of a reconstituted traditional home in an 18th century house. Open from 21/12/09 to 30/4/2010 Monday, Wednesday & Friday 15:00 to 18:00. Guided tour every Monday at 17:00 – Tours for groups all year by appointment– Admission: adult €3 - child: €1.50 • Winter 2010 temporary Exhibition “Les Houches, côté femmes” (Les Houches and Women): this exhibition is a homage to the woman of Les Houches in former times, a faithful companion and counsellor to the patriarch. • “Regards sur les Houches” (Views of Les Houches): discover the history of the construction of Les Houches and the presentday village by browsing through this book. GUIDED HERITAGE TOURS Presented by heritage guides of the Savoy region. Information and enrolments in the Tourist Office. At Les Houches: by appointment, the history of the village and its baroque church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 In Servoz: Maison de l’Alpage - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 In Chamonix: for individuals, groups and coach tour parties. Information and enrolments: • Chamonix - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 00 24 • Argentière - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 Maison de l’Alpage Le Bouchet 74310 Servoz - Tel.: +33 (0)6 30 07 20 42 www.maisondelalpage.net Centre for information and documentation concerning the alpine pastures and agro-pastoral activities: temporary and permanent exhibitions, guided tours, educational events and presentations for children. Reservation required. Educational nature studies of the mountains and alpine pastures with the network of guides and facilitators of the Mont-Blanc region, coordinated by the mountain nature centre. Monday to Saturday 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 14:00 to 18:00. Closed on Saturday afternoon in low season. 26 SERVOZ LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC 89, av. Michel Croz (pedestrian area) Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 25 93 Outstanding documentation on the Valley’s past, the history of mountaineering and winter sports, mineralogy and cartography. Remarkable collection of engravings, lithographs and old posters. Open every day from 14:00 to 19:00 (and mornings from 10:00 to 12:00 noon during French school holidays). Guided tours every Wednesday at 14:30. Prices: adult €5.50 (€4.30 with Carte d’Hôte pass), child from 12 to 18 years old €1.50, free for children under 12 years old. Price for group (15 persons): adults €3.20 each, children €1.50 each. ESPACE TAIRRAZ - CRYSTALS MUSEUM Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 53 93 - Parvis Saint-Michel. Open every day. Opening times during French school holidays: 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 19:00. Outside holidays: 14:00 to 19:00. Same admission charges as Musée Alpin*. • In exhibition room until summer 2010: “Des glaciers et des hommes” (Glaciers and Men). • Musée des cristaux (Crystals Museum): presentation of crystals from Mont Blanc and the Alps. * Paid admission to the Musée Alpin or to the Espace Tairraz allows free admission to the other museum. PIERRE GIANADDA FOUNDATION Martigny - Switzerland Rue du Forum - 1920 Martigny - Switzerland Tel.: +41 27 722 39 78 - www.gianadda.ch Open every day from 10:00 to 18:00 The world-famous Foundation presents the main archaeological items found in Martigny, a permanent exhibition of sculptures in the gardens, Switzerland’s finest Automobile Museum, temporary and permanent exhibitions, as well as concerts. 3 December to 13 June: Exhibition of icons and other sacred images: Maître Denis [Master Dionysius], Roublev and the others”, from Tretiakov National Gallery, Moscow. VALLORCINE Libraries Servoz CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC Maison de l’alpage - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 28 75 Opening times: Monday, Wednesday & Friday from 16:00 to 18:00. Municipal library - Route de la Patinoire Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 34 82 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 53 38. bibliotheque@chamonix-Mont Blanc.fr - www.bibliomontblanc.com Les Houches 76,000 documents: books, magazines, CDs, games, CD-roms and DVDs. Centre village - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 39 83 [email protected] Tuesday to Saturday 14:30 to 18:30 & Wednesday morning 10:00 to 12:00 noon. Monday, Tuesday, Friday 15:30 to 18:30 - Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 noon & 15:00 to 18:00 - Saturday 10:00 to 12:00 noon Closed on Thursday. • From 2 February to 27 March 2010 Fruit, flowers, leaves and branches… Exhibition of cross-stitch works by Chamonix’s embroiderers. • Pèlerins annex “Children’s Library” Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 92 97 - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 16:00 to 18:00. Wednesday 09:00 to 12:30 & 14:00 to 17:00. • Argentière library On 1st floor of town hall, open Wednesday 10:00 to 11:00. Vallorcine Municipal library – on 2nd floor of town hall Tel.: +33(0)4 50 34 44 08 - www.bibliomontblanc.com Tuesday 15:30 to 17:30 & Saturday 09:00 to 12:00 noon. Folk tale readings during school holidays. Free Internet access. Handicrafts, Art Workshops & Exhibitions Chamonix Mont Blanc Valley is a true breeding-ground of talents, perpetuating ancestral skills and centuries-old production methods, as well creating, imagining and inventing. The Valley is an endless source of inspiration for local handicrafts. While visiting the hamlets, apart from the various art workshops and exhibitions organised in the valley, you will discover the work of those who are as much artists as craftsmen and women: woodwork, painting, sculpture, cutlery, pottery and ceramics, ornamental iron work, etc. DEVOUASSOUD HAND-MADE BELLS Chemin à Batioret - 74400 Chamonix - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 04 88 Workshop and retail shop: for 6 generations, the Devouassoud family’s workshop has perpetuated the working methods which have been handed down in the family since 1829. The bells are stamped with the workshop’s mark. F In order to ensure that crafts workers will be present when you visit, we advise you to check their opening times on the websites of the Valley’s Tourist Offices. u r e th r i n fo r ma t i on All brochures on our activities and our professional staff are available on request from Tourist Offices or directly from their websites: www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com 27 Useful Information Access to the Valley is facilitated by multimodal transport facilities so that, whatever your departure point, you can quickly enjoy your stay in our mountains. Whether you arrive from France, Switzerland or Italy, it is really very easy to reach the Valley. How to get here BY ROAD COACHES & AIRPORT TRANSFERS • From France: Direct access via the Autoroute Blanche (A40) motorway linked to Europe’s motorway network. • Daily coaches to Geneva (4 every day) and Italy. SAT - Tel / Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15 - www.sat-montblanc.com • From Switzerland: motorway as far as Martigny, Col de la Forclaz / Col des Montets. Lausanne • From Italy: 15 km from the border: via the Mont Blanc tunnel. Bourg en Bresse Paris France Information on the condition of roads - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 05 51 Lac Leman Berne Bale Zurich Montreux Suisse Évian Sion Haute Savoie Annemasse Genève Aéroport International de Genève-Cointrin Think of car-sharing Au Martigny toro ute The ecological balance of the mountains is fragile. Naturally, shuttles and train are the means of transport that are the most environmentally-friendly. If it is absolutely necessary to take your own vehicle, then think of travelling with other people in order to reduce your C02 emissions during your stay. Car-sharing is an intelligent, economical solution that is good for the Valley. (Musée Gianadda) Cluses TGV Jusqu’à Annecy St-Gervais Grenoble Lyon Marseille Vallée de Chamonix Mont-Blanc A40 Col des Montets Italie Tu Monnnel t-b du lanc Megève Courmayeur Praz/arly Aix les bains Turin Milan Rome Aoste Albertville 10 km All information can be obtained from www.chamonix.com BY TRAIN There are SNCF railway stations in the resorts. St Gervais - Le Fayet / Vallorcine / Martigny (Switzerland) line. TGV high-speed train connections: Annecy, Bellegarde, Geneva, Lausanne SNCF rail travel information: Tel.: 3635 www.ter-sncf.com - www.voyages-sncf.com BY AIR • Geneva International Airport (88 km away) Tel.: +41 (0) 22 717 71 11 0041(0)22 798 20 00 www.viamontblanc.com • Lyon/Saint-Exupéry International Airport (220 km away) Tel.: +33 (0)8 26 800 826 N • Haute Savoie Mont Blanc Airport (at Annecy - 90 km away) 0 1 Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 27 30 06 This website gives you all the information required for travelling the Mont Blanc region by public transport. You can download maps and timetables, and even calculate your itinerary.. 5 km Alternatives to the car: free train and bus service throughout the valley MONT-BLANC EXPRESS TRAIN BUSES / SHUTTLES The SNCF railway line serves all the villages from Saint-Gervais / Le Fayet to Martigny (Switzerland), passing through Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine. Regular urban transport serves the entire Valley. It is free from Servoz to Le Tour for holders of the Carte d’Hôte pass, which is given to you on your arrival by your accommodation host; it is also free with your ski pass. The SNCF railway line from Servoz to Vallorcine is free for holders of the Carte d’Hôte pass, which is given to you on your arrival by your accommodation host. There is around one train every hour. Chamonix Bus - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 05 55 Fax: +33 (0)4 50 55 95 59 Information: in SNCF railway stations - Tel.: 3635 or on the following websites: www.ter-sncf.com - www.voyages-sncf.com [email protected] www.chamonix-bus.com Car parks, taxis & private transport services PARKING FACILITIES IN CHAMONIX TAXIS & PRIVATE TRANSPORT SERVICES 4,000 parking spaces. 3 indoor car parks: Chamonix-Sud, Saint-Michel and Place du Mont Blanc. Parking for less than 1 hour is free. “Les Mulets” free shuttles are provided in the town centre (fitted with particle filters and motors that meet restrictive pollution control standards). A list of taxis and private transfer services is available on request from Tourist Offices. Chamonix Parc Auto - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 65 71 28 All information is available directly via the Internet on the following websites: www.servoz.com - www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com - www.vallorcine.com Tourist Offices at your service Accommodation For a day, a weekend or a week… Chamonix Mont Blanc Valley proposes a complete range of accommodation: you can find hotels of all categories, chambres d’hôtes [bed & breakfast guesthouses], camp sites, apartments and chalets to let, holiday centres, family houses or holiday villages. Les Houches / Servoz SERVOZ www.servoz.com Tourist Office *** Le Bouchet - 74310 Servoz Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 [email protected] - www.servoz.com Opening times • Christmas to mid-April: Monday to Saturday 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 14:30 to 18:30. Closed on Sunday and public holidays. • Other periods: 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 14:00 to 18:00 Closed on Saturday afternoon, Sunday & public holidays. Central booking service for hotels and inclusive stays. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 51 71 - [email protected] www.reservation.leshouches.com CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC Availability in real time, on-line reservations 24/24, 7/7, special offers. All information can be obtained on the website at: www.chamonix.com VALLORCINE The list of accommodation (furnished accommodation, hotels, bed & breakfast guesthouses, serviced holiday apartments, rented holiday homes, camp sites and mountain huts) is available in the Vallorcine summer/winter guide and on the website at www.vallorcine.com (accommodation section). Les Houches WWW.LESHOUCHES.COM Tourist Offices*** BP9 74310 - Les Houches Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 - Fax: 33(0)4 50 55 53 16 [email protected] - www.leshouches.com Opening times • Christmas to mid-April: every day from 08:30 to 12:00 noon & 14:15 to 18:30 • Other periods: 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 14:00 to 18:00 Closed on Sunday & public holidays. CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC www.chamonix.com Chamonix 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 Opening times • Christmas holidays to mid-April: open continuously from 08:30 to 19:00. • From mid-April: 09:00 to 12:30 & 14:00 to 18:00. Argentière Tourist Office**** 24, route du Village - 74400 Argentière Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 54 06 39 [email protected] Opening times • 1 to 20 December and from April: 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 15:00 to 18:00 (closed on Sundays in December outside of school holidays) • Christmas and winter holidays: 08:30 to 12:00 & 15:00 to 19:00 • 5 January to beginning of April (outside of winter school holidays): 8:30 to 12:00 noon & 15:00 to 18:30. VALLORCINE WWW.VALLORCINE.COM Tourist Office ** Le Betté - 74660 Vallorcine Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 54 60 71 - [email protected] Opening times: Open every day during school holidays 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 14:30 to 18:00. Outside of school holidays, open 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 14:30 to 17:30 closed on Sundays & Mondays. Business tourism CONFERENCES & CONGRESSES Chamonix Mont Blanc, a unique site in the world, has ideal assets for hosting your professional and working events. The Majestic Conference Centre has 10 meeting rooms with capacities ranging from 10 to 400 people. The Bureau des Congrès / Seminaires conference office is at your disposal to manage all aspects of your events: transfers, reception facilities and services, reservation of rooms and accommodation, catering, related activities, management of individual enrolments, centralised invoicing system, etc. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 75 50 - Fax: +33 (0)4 50 53 80 83/58 90 Tourist Office - BP 25 - 74 400 Chamonix Mont Blanc [email protected] - www.congres-chamonix.com BOOKING OF ROOMS & HALLS Espace Olca: large flexible hall for 1,200 people – committee rooms and exhibition rooms – equipped kitchen, basic lighting and public address sound systems. [email protected] Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 or +33 (0)6 80 88 43 06 Jean Morel Municipal Hall: capacity 100 to 200 people equipped kitchen. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 21 51 Vox Cinema: 1 room for conferences - Cour du Bartavel Tel.: +33(0)4 50 55 89 98 Tourism and the disabled In our resorts, our professionals are trained and the facilities are adapted to meet the needs of persons with reduced mobility, visual impairments or impaired hearing. We can provide handi-ski [skiing for the disabled] with the ESF ski school, hill-walks and ski tours as well as brochures for the visually impaired (in French and in English), etc. Information is available from Tourist Offices: See “Déplacements et Accessibilité” (Travel, Transport and Accessibility) brochure on tourism and the disabled. 29 Emergency numbers / useful numbers Pompiers (Fire Brigade): 18 NIGHTS, SUNDAYS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Samu (mobile emergency medical service): 15 • Duty doctor: 15 • Duty dentist: Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 66 17 19 • International emergency services number from a mobile phone: 112 • Ambulances (non-emergency service): Tel. +33 (0)4 50 53 46 20 • Chamonix Hospital- Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 84 00 509, Route des Pèlerins - Chamonix • Sallanches Hospital - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 47 01 32380, Rue de l’Hôpital - Sallanches (including a haemodialysis centre) • Medical Analysis Laboratory - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 07 25 32, Rue Helbronner - Chamonix • P.G.H.M (mountain rescue service) - Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 16 89 69, Route de la Mollard - Chamonix Argentière, Chamonix, Les Houches, Servoz In addition to the 14 general practitioner doctors in the Valley, there are also several specialists in paediatrics, cardiology, dermatology, etc. A detailed list is available on request from Tourist Offices. Weather / Safety MÉTÉO FRANCE WEATHER FORECASTS OFFICE DE HAUTE MONTAGNE 7-day weather forecasts, updated 3 times every day Weather forecast bulletins are displayed in the Maison de la Montagne and in the Tourist Office. Centralises all information concerning conditions and safety in mountain areas. Maison de la Montagne. Open Monday to Saturday, from 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 15:00 to 18:00. Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 08 www.ohm-chamonix.com CHAMONIX WEATHER FORECASTS RECOMMENDATIONS 5-day weather forecast - www.chamonix.com • Off-piste skiing is risky: it is not necessarily safe just because there are ski tracks. Most off-piste skiing is in glacier areas, with all the dangers involved (crevasses, avalanches, ice-pinnacles, etc.). Tel.: +33 (0)8 92 68 02 74 [email protected] - www.meteo.fr ESPACE MÉTÉO WEBSITE Information on mountain weather and accident prevention advice. Free admission. Maison de la Montagne. Open Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 12:00 noon & 15:00 to 18:00. [email protected] Certifications / Seals of approval Les Houches • For freeride, off-piste skiing or mountain skiing, wear protective clothing and bring an Arva wireless beacon, a shovel and a probe! Twinning and decentralised cooperation • Chamonix Mont-Blanc is twinned with the towns of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Fujiyoshida, Cilaos, Aspen, Davos, Courmayeur and Martigny. Famille Plus Montagne [Family Plus Mountain] certification: the Les Houches resort recently joined the club of resorts with “Famille Plus Montagne” certification. This seal of approval is awarded to the reception facilities and services provided for families and children. The resort undertakes to provide personalised facilities and services, events and activities suitable for all ages, at attractive prices, with professionals who are aware of children’s expectations. Chamonix-MONT-BLANC « Best of the Alps » is the seal of approval for the best holiday destinations throughout the Alps.Every member of this prestigious group meets the most demanding requirements of its international clientele.You can be sure of having wonderful, unforgettable holidays with an ultramodern facility, the authentic atmosphere of mountain villages, a friendly high- quality reception, and a complete range of services in summer and in winter. The “Best of the Alps” holiday destinations wish you a warm welcome! Reception services and information are provided by the Tourist Offices (called both Office du Tourisme and Syndicat d’Initiative). This seal of approval proves compliance with the NF X 50-730 standard and NF237 certification rules. It guarantees regular monitoring of: ease of access, reception of clients on the spot, by telephone and by mail, quality of accommodation, quality of information, availability, competence and training of staff , management of client satisfaction. Controls are carried out by AFAQ AFNOR Certification - 11, av. Francis de Préssensé - 93 571 Saint-Denis la plaine Cedex - France. www.marque-nf.com vallorcine “Notre Village Terre d’Avenir” (Our Village, Land of the Future) certification: the certification awarded by the Notre Village Terre d’Avenir National Association (recognized as an expert by the Ministry of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and Marine Affairs, for monitoring the Agendas 21 of rural local government authorities) gives the possibility of drawing up a local Agenda 21 (a programme of environmental, economic and social actions). 30 VILLE DE CILAOS • Les Houches is twinned and has a cooperation agreement with the village resort of Krasnaya-Polyana in the Caucasus mountains, which will host the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games. •Servoz is developing a cooperation project with Nendaz in Switzerland in cultural and heritage tourism. This document is not contractually binding - Prices are given in euros, for general guidance only. Credits for photos & illustrations: Agence Zoom, M. Colonel, M. Dalmasso, Esope, Fotolia, Goodshoot, F.Kielholz, P. Labarbe, P. Lindqvist, E. Moy, J.C. Poirot, B. Prud’homme, J.M. Romero, Les Houches & Servoz Tourist Office, Chamonix Tourist Office, Vallorcine Tourist Office. Photo-engraving: Linéature Translation: Loiodice Design / Production: La Terre Entière +33 (0)4 72 19 87 92 Printing: FOT certified “Imprim’vert” Brochure printed on Lys Galilé Tauro offset paper with PEFC certification (for wood obtained from sustainably managed forests). Ici on trie. Nous comptons sur vous. UNTIL SUMMER 2010 • “Des glaciers et des hommes” [Glaciers and Men] exhibition in the Espace Tairraz. • “Les Houches côté femmes” [Les Houches and Women] exhibition in the Musée Montagnard, Les Houches. • “Un alpage à vivre” [A living Alpine pasture] permanent exhibition in the Maison de l’Alpage, Servoz. NOVEMBer • 27 October to 4 November: 8th Festival of Arts for children and their families. • 20: “Le médecin malgré lui” puppet show • 29 & 30: Open climbing contest. DeCEMBer • 5: Nordic Monster Test / test of cross-country skiing equipment, advice, etc. • 5 & 6: first snow weekend. • 13: Christmas market. • 18: “Plume et paille” [Feather and straw], music and dance, for everyone from 5 years old. • 21 to 26: Happy Christmas in Les Houches & Servoz Shows, concert, arrival of Father Christmas. • 22 & 29: Tuesday shows. Show for children in the Espace Olca, Les Houches. • 24: arrival of Father Christmas (sound and light show). • 26 & 27: Saut Spécial (special ski jump) French Cup. • During the Christmas holidays: Christmas market, Argentière. • 29 & 30: FIS night events Slalom with international skiing stars, Les Planards. January • 3: Telemark International Open competition, Les Houches. • 10: Sochi - Krasnaya Polyana Skiing Grand Prix, Les Houches. • 10 to 17: Russian week in Les Houches to celebrate the Russian New Year: music, shows, meals. • 12 & 13: FIS men’s giant slalom race on La Verte des Houches. Festive and sports activities, shows, festivals, concerts… In Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley, there is always a moment to share with others! • 21: “Bottes de princes et bigoudis” (Princes’ boots and hair-curlers), burlesque tale for everyone from 5 years old. • 23: 15th Les Posettes Derby. Ski race for teams of 2 organised by Vallorcine ski club - 900 m of drops – open to all. • 29 to 31: Freeride World Tour. february • 30 January to 6 February: World Junior Men’s & Ladies Skiing Championships - Mont-Blanc region Men’s Giant Slalom in Les Houches, 31 January, - Men’s Slalom in Les Planards, 1 February, - Ladies’ Slalom in Les Planards, 4 February, - with 43 nations and 270 participants present. • 1 & 2: FIS Men’s Night Slalom • 9 & 23: Tuesday shows Show for children in the Espace Olca, Les Houches. • 10: “Chiffonnade”, modern dance, for very young children. • 12: 2nd “PRO AM VIDEO”: Encounters between amateur and professional makers of films on the subject of mountains. Films, discussions and concerts. • 16: “La Verte à l’envers” [La Verte backwards] at 19:00: ascent back up the famous downhill slope as part of Somfy Tour Mountaineering. • 19 to 21: Lhossar 2137 Tibetan New Year Talks, exhibitions, food and concert Organised by Lions des Neiges Mont Blanc. • 20: Sébastien Rung Challenge (downhill skiing handisport). • 22: Yvon Masino Grand Prix (downhill skiing). • 24: Les Houches Kid Contest. 8th national event for 7 to 14 year-olds, including freeride, boarder & ski cross and big air. • 26: Chamonix in Red, welcome home. To celebrate its 65th birthday, Chamonix ESF ski school presents a festive evening with music, parade, a giant tartiflette and surprises… Open to everyone! They dream of representing Chamonix Mont Blanc Valley in the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver from 12 to 28 February 2010 (12 to 21 March 2010 for the Paralympic Games) Jonathan Félisaz Nordic combined François Braud Nordic combined Vincent Descombes special ski jump Alexandre Pittin Downhill skiing French national curling team Tony ANGIBOUST, Yann DUCROZ, Thomas DUFOUR, Raphaël MATTHIEU, Richard DUCROZ Guillermo Fayed Downhill skiing Anthony Obert Downhill skiing Damien Ambrosetti Cross-country skiing Cedric Amafroi Broisat Downhill skiing Handisport Mathias Wibault Cross-country skiing Thomas Cardinal Snowboard 2009 World Freeride Champion Aurélien Ducroz - Free ride • 28: 3rd Run & Skate (running & cross-country skiing race). • End of February: Houches & Servoz Carnival. MARch • 2: Tuesday shows. Show for children in the Espace Olca, Les Houches. • 3: Carnival, procession and events in the streets of Chamonix. • 5: “L’écume de l’air”, concert for balls and double bass, for everyone from 5 years old. • 7, 8, 14 & 15: French Snowboard Cup. • 9 & 12: French Junior Skiing Championships in Chamonix and Les Houches. • 9 to 14: Piolets d’or, Chamonix. A celebration of the values of mountaineering in honour of the year’s greatest climbs on the world’s finest summits. • 21: Didier Laigneau Grand Prix (downhill skiing). • 26 to 28: “Grolleanski” Film Festival, Les Houches. ApRIL • 2: “Hans Marlichen, Cendrillon et les autres” [Hans Marlichen, Cinderella and the others], theatre/folk tale, for everyone from 6 years old. • 3: Russian evening at Les Houches. Dinner, show, etc. • 9 to 11 April: 6th “Corsica in Chamonix” event . MAy • 2 & 3: Freeride Days, large annual meeting to mark the closure of Les Grands Montets. • 13 to 15 May: 20th Science Festival (meetings, discussions, workshops, events, experiments, science film festival, shows, etc.). • 13 to 16: 2nd Millet Raid. F Diary of Events u h rt er i n fo r ma t io n All brochures on our activities and our professional staff are available on request from Tourist Offices or directly from their websites: www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com 31 r e m m su , g n i r n d Sp m u t u & aue multi-facette iq this un va l l e y WORLD JUNIOR SKIING CHAMPIONSHIPS The Mont Blanc region is hosting the World Junior Skiing Championships from 30 January to 6 February 2010. Megève will host the downhill and Super G events, while Chamonix will host the Slaloms, and Les Houches the Giant Slalom events. CHAMONIX MONT-BLANC VALLEY Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley welcomes you, whatever the season. Whilst enjoying family walks or sporting activities, discover the other side of our valley and the transformation of the landscapes. CANDIDATURE FOR 2018 OLYMPIC GAMES The heart of the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley beats for the Olympic ideal. Annecy 2018 is a great challenge involving great stakes, and a great call that echoes all around the mountains! This candidature is realistic, motivated by the Valley’s numerous sporting, economic and structural assets. Named as a potential site for hosting the men’s downhill skiing and ladies’ ice hockey events, Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley joins in this intense popular enthusiasm that goes beyond the region’s boundaries, entrusting Annecy (Venice of the Alps) to the benevolence of Europe’s highest sommet.