Chamonix is a holiday destination on every mountain-lover’s bucket list, a working town (rather than sleepy resort village) that’s as busy in summer as it is in winter. Because of the mega mountains that surround it (Chamonix sits at the foot of the Mont Blanc massif, to name just one) and the extreme athletes that come here to play, it’s known as the adventure capital of Europe. But for the rest of us, those towering mountain peaks and the lush valleys make the most breath-taking backdrop for hiking, biking or simply relaxing.
Panoramic Mont Blanc views
Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car that whisks you up the Mont Blanc massif to the top of Europe. It’s worth it for the views alone, with panoramic views of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. Visit the museum, watch mountaineers set out for the summit, or Step Into The Void - a nerve-testing glass box jutting out over a 1,000 metre precipice.
In fact, the Chamonix valley has one of the best summer lift systems in the Alps, with cable cars, gondolas, funiculars and chairlifts to give you a boost on your hike or bike, or easy access to new areas for sightseeing (payable locally and open during selected dates, see 'walking' tab below for further information on summer lifts).
Walking holidays in Chamonix
A summer hiking destination since the mid 1700s, Chamonix has a huge complex of trails, whatever your pace. The Lac Blanc is a popular walking trail, it's well-marked and offers stellar views. If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Grand Balcon Sud day hike will lead you through forests, meadows and high alpine terrain. Look out for traditional mountain refuges along the routes for refreshments.
Explore the Mer de Glace (the Sea of Ice)
The largest glacier in France - 7km long and 200m deep - it was the Mer de Glace that put Chamonix on the map as a holiday destination back in the 1800s. Although fast receding, during certain summer months you can visit the caves inside this living glacier, with its ice sculptures and crystals, as well as the Glacorium exhibition museum nearby that’s dedicated to glaciology.
Family holidays in Chamonix
Adventure parks, zip lines and outdoor activities the Chamonix valley has no shortage of kids’ activities. Families after a holiday in nature will love Chamonix, the walking routes are beautiful and range from valley level walking to more challenging hikes, for kids up to the task. The adventure and leisure parks are great fun for all, as is the Montenver train. See our 'things to do' tab for more information on family activities.
Adventure-sport central
There’s probably no more active or adventurous place in the world with many different activities on offer as well as events throughout the summer. On top of Chamonix’s extensive walking trails, try your hand at e-biking, mountain biking, golf, via ferrata, and a whole host of watersports (rafting, hydrospeed). Or perhaps find a sunny deck to watch all the action from…
Why book a summer holiday in Chamonix with Inghams?
At Inghams, we do walking holidays differently. With no fixed itinerary, you have more time in your destination and the freedom to walk as much or as little as you like, discovering some of France's best walking routes and activities at your own pace.
Plus, we've included two optional guided walks every week in Chamonix. Join a professional walking guide and really get to know the area (see more details in the ‘walking’ tab below).
With over 85 years of outdoor travel experience, our holiday packages to Chamonix include flights, transfers, and accommodation, so you can relax and leave the small details to us. Our experts can help you choose the best holiday for you, and our team in resort can give you the inside scoop on how to spend your time away with us.
