Le Lavancher to Refuge Buvette du Chapeau

• Drive to hamlet of le Lavancher
• Continue driving up the road until you can’t drive any further … park your car [here]
• Then walk up and back on same track to the refuge buvette du Chapeau .. approx 45 mins each way
• The refuge is open for refreshments and is also a good spot for lunch / dinner with great views over Chamonix Town (reservation recommended).
• Option to continue to a viewing platform of Mer du Glace (approx. 15 mins past buvette).
• Check the following links – Instagram 1 | Facebook | Instagram 2

(For a longer option, you can also take the walking track Petit Balcon Nord from Argentiere to le Lavancher … plan for 1hr extra each way from Argentiere to le Lavancher and back to Argentiere again)

Les Nants Chamonix to Refuge Floria

• Start in Chamonix in the hamlet of les Nants – google maps coordinates [here]
• Look for hiking track to chalet de la Floria
• Nice, easy and scenic walk up and back on same track … approx 45 mins each way … incredible panoramic views along the track with lots of shade for hot sunny days … refreshments and lunch options available at chalet de la Floria
• Check the following links – Instagram or Facebook

Le Buet to la Cascade de Berard

• Drive or take train to hamlet of le Buet (over col des Montets)
• Park at le Buet train station – google maps coordinates – [here]
• Walk up the Berard valley approximately 15-30 mins until you reach the scenic waterfalls – la cascade de berard
• You will also find the buvette de la cascade de berard for refreshments and food options [here]
• Historical cave to visit behind the buvette de la cascade
• Via Ferrata de la Cascade de Berard is also located here – very scenic and highly recommended.
• Check the following links – Instagram or Facebook

(From the cascades you can return the way you came or you can complete an easy scenic route as explained below)

• Continue past the cascades and go up the Berard Valley approximately 15 mins before crossing the river at trail point marked Fontana Freda alt 1518m.
• After crossing the river bridge, loop back down the valley and follow hiking trail signs to hamlet of Sur le Rocher
• At Sur le Rocher you can descent back to le Buet or continue a little higher to hamlet of les Granges before heading back to le Buet again.
• Upon return, take a beer or snack/meal at the iconic Le Buet Hotel … this historical hotel dates back to days when there were no roads but only a hiking trail that connected Le Buet to the Chamonix Valley (ask back tender for a look at the photo album that outlines history of the hotel). The outdoor beer garden is a fantastic place to have a small relax after your hike.  A chosen destination of Anthony Bourdain in his visit to Chamonix.

Argentiere – le Planet – Argentiere

• Start point … chemin du vieux four, Argentiere … begin hike by walking in the direction of Chamonix
• Turn left at chalet le Marti into chemin de la moraine
• Continue straight ahead about 500m’s and continue under train bridge onto chemin des Rambles (gravel road)
• Go up track and take the walking track (behind the 2nd chalet on the left)
• Follow hiking trail signs and continue to the hamlet of le Planet in direction of le Tour
• At le Planet, go down thru the residential part of the hamlet and follow the hiking trails signs that take you back into Argentiere whereby you return in a loop manner via chemin du vieux four.
• Check following link for hiking route – Argentiere -> le Planet -> Argentiere– approx 40mins

(For a picturesque extension, take the route ‘Randonne de Peclerey’ to ‘Le Tour’ and then loop back on the petit balcon to le Planet and then onto Argentiere).

I hope this helps … HAPPY ADVENTURES!!!!!!

Click [here] for Best Hiking Trails in Chamonix and Argentiere

Click [here] for The 5 Best Day Trips from Chamonix

Summer chalet accommodation options available here – Luxury Summer Chalets in Chamonix

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Tandem Paragliding

Instructors will take you on a leisurely flight! Amazing scenery and a different perspective from anything else when flying out from the Brevent or Aiguille du midi take off areas – Unforgettable! As of 4 years old.

Helicopter Flights

Short on time? A helicopter tour of the Mont Blanc Massif is the quickest way into some of the most breath-taking mountain landscapes on the planet. In the Chamonix Valley, there are several panoramic routes with flight times ranging from 10 to 30 minutes. The flights can be booked in advance but please be aware that they are weather dependant.

Climbing

The solid granite rock makes Chamonix the centre of climbing from all over the world. From big boulders sitting at the bottom of the valley and hidden in forests, to accessible and picturesque learning walls and ultimately on to sheer and very technical faces. There is something for everyone here with kids’ classes starting at the age of 5 and plenty of easy routes to learn on this is a sport for all ages and levels.

Accro Park Gaillands

The best Accro branching park in the Valley with three levels beginner for the young ones, intermediate for everyone and expert for the really brave – finishing with a great zipwire across the lake!

Horse riding

Discover the valley in a completely unique way to discover the valley. The Centre Equestre du Mont Blanc offers different rides for all levels and timescales from 1 hour up to a several days. Lessons in an excellent location with stunning views also available.

Hiking

There are over 350 km of maintained walking paths with over 170 different routes of varying difficulties. In the base of the valley, at altitude, following rivers and round lakes the Panorama is dramatic and unforgettable.

White water sports

If you love fresh water and excitement, then this must be tried.

Varied ways of going downstream from laughter and fun in eight-man rafts (great for kids) to the adrenalin fuelled excitement of hydro speed sledges The L’arve river is not the hardest or the fastest in the world but snaking all the way down the valley from Chamonix it is a great river to be enjoyed by all.

Mountain Biking

Chamonix is a paradise for bike riding from leisurely rides along the river to psycho downhill tracks. The principal areas are Le Balme with rolling hills and varied difficulty levels at the very end of the valley. And the Les Houches Prarion lift with runs across open fields, through dense forests and prepared routes… this area is great fun!

The Adventure Park of Contamines Montjoie

30 minutes from Chamonix, in the neighbouring valley this is the largest activity park in the Pays du Mont-Blanc.

Scattered all around the lake are numerous adventure activities: tennis, driving range, mini-golf, archery, biathlon, adventure parks, trampolines, stables and donkey trails, climbing and boats on the lake as well as great restaurants – A day here is never long enough and the kids will come home happy and exhausted.

Parc de Merlet

Merlet hosts all the mountain species in a natural setting with exceptional views. You will meet the locals in their natural habitat from upclose. We are naturally talking about the animals like Chamois, bouquetins, marmottes and more

The Gorges de la Diosaz

A stunning walk and adventure on a sweltering day with beautiful waterfalls carved out of the mountain.

The téléphérique de l’Aiguille du Midi

Accessible from the centre of town, the Aiguille du Midi téléphérique whisks you at speed to the very top of the Alpes.

The viewing platform offers you an uninterrupted 360° view over the full range of the Alpes. The views are stretching through France, Switzerland and Italy.  There is a further lift to take you to the very top at 3842m. The highest point in Europe you can reach without a serious amount of walking!

Step into the void – Not for the faint hearted!!! This is a five sided glass cube stuck onto the mount with 1000m of nothing below!!! Very cool to walk (or crawl) on to and get the heart racing!

Montenvers cog train

This traditional cog train is in itself a wonderful experience taking you all the way up to 1913 Montenvers station. An amazing Panorama awaits you there. Overlooking the Mer de Glace, and dominated by Le Drus and les Grandes Jorasses.

The Tramway du Mont-Blanc

This is the second cog train in the valley (and separate) with spectacular views and an utterly charming ride running from the very bottom of the mountain. The train will take you from St Gervais, all the way to the Nid d’Aigle where the view dominates the whole valley, les Dômes de Miage and the Aiguilles de Chamonix. The added bonus is a high probability of seeing mountain goats, Bouqetin and Chamois deer along the way…

Chamonix adventure park

Bringing together a number of very different rides and activities including the mountain Luge roller coaster and lots more for the kids

Le plan d’eau Biotope de Combloux

Only 25 minutes from Chamonix, ‘le lac Biotope de Combloux’ is one of the wonderful places to go on a hot day. Basically, bit of genius bio engineering has created the perfect lake with a swimmable area that has a sand floor and a separate are where the plants continuously filter and clean the water – it is pure, natural and lovely with a large grass bank and a great restaurant showing off the amazing views it is a perfect spot for a day off.

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The French Alps are particularly convenient for European snow enthusiasts. Many resorts are in close proximity to the Swiss and Italian border and specialise in catered chalets. It is only a short fly or drive away from all European countries. The country offers a variety of ski resorts with a good range of difficulty, the best off-piste action and traditional architecture.

Many resorts now boast a wide range of hotels and apartments, but nothing beats the authentic ski chalet experience. When imagining a ski holiday, the majority of people will visualise a picturesque mountain chalet with views of snow-capped mountains. The French Alps has them in abundance, so how do you choose which one to stay in? The surrounding area of the chalet and the nearby ski resorts play a huge part in your holiday, so read on for the best chalet destinations in France.

Argentière

If you want to visit the birthplace of winter sports, then head to the Chamonix valley for some serious skiing. With one of the highest altitudes, Argentière offers unparalleled snow quality all season and is the gateway to the famous Grand Montets ski resort. There’s plenty more to do here apart from ski too. With traditional architecture and day trips available to nearby Italy and Switzerland. The small village has a number of charming chalets to rent, with spectacular views of the Argentière glacier and other snow-capped peaks.

Chamonix

Chamonix town is one of the most visited ski destinations in Europe and the world. If you’re going to visit the French Alps, then why not stay at the foot of the mountain range’s most magnificent peak, the Mont Blanc. Chamonix has a long history of mountaineering and winter sports. It boasts one of the most exciting off-piste runs on the Vallée Blanche. As an established Alpine town, Chamonix has a lot of accommodation options to cater to its thousands of visitors, including a wide range of deluxe chalets.

Courchevel 1850

Located in the Trois Vallées ski area, this is an upmarket village with reputation for decadence. One of the best features of Courchevel is its novice appeal. There are loads of beginner slopes for non-skiers and children to try out. The nearby resorts of Méribel and Val Thorens accommodate the intermediate and professional skiers. Renowned for attracting the rich and famous, you have the pick of luxury chalets in Courchevel. but be prepared to pay for it.

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When travelling to the continent you usually have three options – fly, drive or ride the train. Chamonix is easily accessible from most European countries and is well serviced by many transport companies. The quickest way to reach the French Alps from the UK is to fly, but there are plenty of choices!

Fly to Chamonix

The main transport hub for Chamonix is Geneva – which is actually in Switzerland! Geneva is well connected by many airlines from most European cities, and the transfer time from here to Chamonix is around one hour fifteen minutes. This is the closest airport to Chamonix – alternatively you can also fly to Lyon but this is an extra hour away by car.

From the airport you can hire a car, catch a public bus or arrange a private transfer to take you into your accommodation at Chamonix.

Take the train to Chamonix

During peak times it can be cheaper to get the train to your French holiday destination, thanks to the Eurostar. You can take a fast TGV train from Paris or Lyon followed by regional trains to Saint Gervais Les Bains, which is the best place to catch the Mont Blanc Express Train. This train will take you right into Chamonix, so it is possible to get all the way from London to Chamonix by rail!

Drive to Chamonix

If you plan to stop off at some other French destinations or want to turn your ski holiday into a longer roadtrip, then you might choose to self-drive to Chamonix. The Chamonix valley is a big place so it can sometimes be preferable to have your own car, but you could always hire one from the airport. If you want to drive from the UK to Chamonix you will have to take a cross channel ferry to a French port and then take the long car journey to Chamonix which is on the other side of France.

As one of the world’s most popular ski resorts, Chamonix is relatively easy to reach and there is a huge choice of transport options.

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Resorts with high altitudes such as Chamonix in France have late snowfall, so you don’t have to wait until winter to go skiing or snowboarding. With loads of bank holidays to enjoy, why not book a ski break as your spring holiday? Spring can also offer better skiing conditions than winter, and lower prices for lift passes. Here are the top five reasons for going skiing this spring.

1. Bluebird Days

Dreaming of those bluebird days with perfect skiing conditions? You’ll often find these in spring, with bright clear blue skies, fresh snow and warmer temperatures. It’s more fun skiing on these types of days than in a winter blizzard – plus you still might catch a tan.

2. Longer Days

One of the biggest benefits of skiing in spring is the increased daylight. You’ll enjoy longer days than winter, meaning you can have longer on the slopes. Improve your skills morning, noon and evening.

3. Quieter Slopes and Lifts

Many resorts start to slow down around March and April time, which means you can forget about long lift queues. With less holidaymakers, you’ll be able to take full advantage of the slopes as you won’t be sharing them with hundreds of other people at this time of year.

4. Stay Active

You’ll probably be going on a relaxing summer holiday, so rather than having two lazy breaks why not have an active spring holiday? Skiing is a great way to keep fit and tone up, as well as improve coordination. It’s also a really fun way of staying active for all the family.

5. Closing Parties

The last reason to visit a ski resort in spring is the closing parties. As the slopes close for the warmer months, you might get to enjoy a wild closing party as part of your break. What more could you ask for?

Basically, skiing in spring means a lot more time to ski. With longer days and less people to share the powder with, it makes perfect sense to book a spring ski holiday.

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The Alps are one of the world’s most picturesque mountain ranges, and are beautiful during all seasons. If you want to make sure you see the best of the stunning views on offer, make sure you visit one of these places to take them in. Read on for our list of the top Alpine views in the whole of Europe.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Nestled in the Southern Alps is a quaint little town with breath-taking scenery – Cortina d’Ampezzo. It is popular with winter sports buffs but is also home to several museums and landmarks. The spectacular mountain scenery hasn’t gone unnoticed, and numerous films have been shot in the area including The Pink Panther and For Your Eyes Only. You’ll get a fantastic view here in all directions.

St Moritz, Switzerland

The natural beauty of St Moritz has the rich and famous flocking to the illustrious ski town. With mountain ranges for miles, the views here are majestic but they come at a cost – this is one of the most expensive ski resorts in the world. Once again the scenery has been featured in film, during the opening scenes of Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much.

Argentiere, France

Argentiere is an old traditional French Alpine village, and is part of the large Chamonix skiing resort. As far as mountain scenery goes, this quaint Savoyard village is pretty much unrivalled in Europe. It offers panoramic views of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps, and les Grands Montets glacier. Marmotte Mountain offers a range of luxury chalets with magnificent scenic views from every window.

Zermatt, Switzerland

This town is on the list because it is towered over by one spectacular mountain – the Matterhorn. Zermatt is a car-free destination, which alone makes it a charming town, but coupled with the remarkable views it is definitely worth a visit.

Where have you experienced spectacular views in the European Alps? Let us know.

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Val Thorens

This is the highest ski resort in Europe, and is so confident in its snow cover that it actually offers a snow guarantee from November to May. That means you don’t have to go skiing before spring arrives, you can still ski during spring! Located in France’s Tarentaise Valley, Val Thorens is a firm favourite with skiers and snowboarders all season long.

Ischgl

This Austrian ski resort sits extremely high and offers great snow quality and off-piste adventure. If you’re looking for an Easter ski holiday, Ischgl could be a great choice as it is also host to the Top of the Mountain Easter Concert – so there’s plenty to do off the skis, too.

Chamonix Valley

The Chamonix Valley is home to many of the world’s top ski resorts and it’s a fantastic holiday destination all year round. It is regarded as the birthplace of winter sports and offers a wide range of slopes for all abilities. You’ll have to move fast to book some of the lower resorts, yet some slopes in Argentiere are open until early May.

St Anton

Boasting challenging terrain, reliable packed powder and a world famous apres-ski scene, St Anton is one of Europe’s premium ski destinations. The Austrian resort has an excellent snow record, so if you fancy a ski trip with some spring sunshine it shouldn’t be a problem here.

Whistler Blackcomb

Fancy something further afield than Europe? The Canadian mainstay resort of Whistler is a great choice for some late season skiing. It usually stays open until late May, and you also have the choice to combine a spring ski trip with some sightseeing in other areas of the beautiful country.

There are plenty of options if you’re looking for a ski break in March, April or May. If you’re looking for luxury then check out our deluxe chalets, which will definitely be swaying you towards Chamonix for your next ski holiday.

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Here is Marmotte Mountain’s top reasons to go skiing in France.

1. Easily accessible

There are lots of pretty ski resorts to choose from in France, and they are all easily accessible. Hop on a short flight to Lyon or Geneva, and you could be checked into your stunning chalet within two or three hours. Chamonix benefits from motorway access, and is just a one hour drive from Geneva international airport. Many of the country’s ski centres are also accessible by train if you prefer not to fly and drive.

2. Views of Mont Blanc

Most ski destinations have impressive mountain views, but nothing quite like Mont Blanc. The towering mountain lies on the border of France and Italy and stands 4,808m above sea level. As the highest mountain in the Alps, this imposing peak creates the perfect backdrop to your ski holiday.

3. Variety of slopes

The ski resorts in France really do offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for intense off-piste skiing, powerful runs with vertical drops or gentle beginner slopes, the French Alps has it all. If you have a large party with varying levels of expertise, the resort of Chamonix is ideal as it has such a wide range of slopes and powder fields.

4. Lots of snow

Because many of the country’s mountain ranges are over 2000m high, France offers some of the most snow-sure resorts in Europe. The ski terrain offers fantastic snow quality, which is the crucial ingredient for any ski trip! In particular the resorts in Argentiere are a great choice for snow all season – you can hit the powder right up until May.

5. Excellent cuisine

A ski holiday isn’t all about what happens on the slopes – you’ll also want to experience the local culture and cuisine, and see what else the location has to offer. France has a world renowned reputation for excellent gastronomy, and many of the ski resorts have a pick of exquisite fine dining establishments.

Are you convinced yet? Book your French ski holiday with us to experience the luxury trip of a lifetime.

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There are several routes you can take down the Vallee Blanche, depending on your ski capability and off-piste experience. You should never underestimate the mountain, so if you’re not 100% confident descending alone in wild terrain then there is always the option of a mountain guide who can help groups through the route.

Do I Need a Guide?

The decision to hire a guide when skiing The Vallee Blanche will depend on a range of factors, including your ski level and the route you wish to take. The weather and snow conditions can also make the descent more challenging – you may get a mixture of a firm base, deep powder and icy moguls. While guides are not compulsory, many advanced skiers still hire one if they are not familiar with the route.

Intermediate skiers should only attempt the descent with a guide. If you have never tried off-piste skiing before, then it is not recommended to descend the Vallee Blanche before having some lessons and gaining experience in different snow conditions.

If you choose to go it alone, then be aware that there can be an avalanche risk and there are other dangers to know about when undertaking off-piste travel. For example, you’ll need to wear a harness in the event of a crevasse rescue.

The Routes

Classic Descent – the easiest way to ski down the Vallee Blanche which bypasses the steepest sections. Suitable for intermediate skiers, you’ll ski over glaciers through several impressive peaks.

Gros Rognon – a variation of the classic descent, still suitable for intermediate off-piste skiers.

Petit Envers du Plan – this route requires good off-piste technique as it involves some steep descents. You’ll also get to pass some awesome glacial formations.

Grand Envers – one of the most difficult but most rewarding runs in the Vallee Blanche. Only suitable for advanced skiers with complete control and off-piste experience.

Food and Refreshments

It takes all day to descend, so you need to be prepared. You can take a packed lunch, or many skiers choose to stop off at the Requin hut next to the glacier. There is also a café at the top and bottom of the routes, so there are a few options if you don’t want to have to carry food with you.

Need more information about this off-piste opportunity? Contact us before your stay and we’ll help you arrange skiing the Vallee Blanche.

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La Plagne, Paradiski, France

This huge mountain resort links ten ski villages so doesn’t have a busy, resort feel. This makes it a great destination for families and skiers who would rather overlook the nightlife scene. Glacier de Bellecôte is the star of the show here, and definitely one of the best ski slopes to take on in 2017 – thanks to two brand new ski lifts. A new 10 person gondola lift is launching this year, set to increase the capacity from 925 people per hour to 2,400. There is also another brand new state-of-the-art high speed chair lift which was new for 16/17 season, which replaces the Coq ski lift.

Lech, Austria

Lech has long been known as one of the best resorts in the Alps, so if you haven’t tried the powder here yet then 2017 is the year to do it. The rich and famous have been skiing here for decades, and it’s even the famous setting for the ski scene in Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason. The high class status resort is matched with some of the best skiing opportunities for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Take on challenging off-piste, the Weisser Ring or even get heli-dropped on the highest slopes for incredible descents.

Chamonix, France

If you’re planning a ski trip a little later in the year, then you want to choose a resort which is almost guaranteed snow. 90% of Chamonix’s terrain is over 2000 metres, making it one of the most snow sure resorts in Europe. If you haven’t yet visited the oldest winter sports resort in France, now is the time! The valley is open until May so you can choose a luxury ski break in half term or the Easter holidays.

Zermatt, Switzerland

There is so much high altitude terrain to explore in Zermatt for beginners and experts alike. In addition to a huge ski area, efficient lifts and world renowned après-ski, it really does have it all. On the other side of the Matterhorn lies the Italian alps, so you can head out for a day and try those slopes too – as if Zermatt doesn’t have enough in the piste department!

Are you ready to take on these slopes this year? Let us know which resorts are on your bucket list.

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