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Chamonix
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is in the Haute-Savoie department of the Rhone Alps region.
Chamonix is best known for two things - Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in France, stands at the edge of the town; and for being a very popular resort. Not just in the winter - the town is busy all year round with those seeking to enjoy outdoor activities in the stunning settings that surround the region.
Chamonix the town has a history dating back 500 years, although there is little to remind you, as the development of the town for tourism has submerged much of the original. However, more than most ski resorts, you do get some sense of history from staying in Chamonix and there are some traditional buildings in the centre. The transition from quiet village to major resort started in the early 20th century, culminating in the Winter Olympics at Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (the name had changed in 1916).
Perhaps the attractions of the town won't detain you for long unless you are in search of a busy apres-ski resort - it is very busy and expensive to visit - but the possibilities to enjoy the region - predominantly sightseeing, mountain-climbing, skiing in the winter, and walking in the summer - are the reasons for visiting Chamonix Mont Blanc rather than the place itself..
It would be impossible to describe all the many possibilities for skiing, hiking, outdoor activities and enjoying the spectacular scenery here, but be assured they are numerous!
Of course, the opportunity to see Mont Blanc itself also attracts many visitors.
One excursion that is expensive but well worth the expense, vertigo permitting, is the cable cars to the Aiguille du Midi. The views are completely awesome, across the mountains that continue into the distance and the 'trademark' needles and jagged rocks in the foreground.
Another particularly impressive view of the mountain (weather permitting) is from Nid d'Aigle (Eagle's nest) - a viewpoint reached by tram from Le Fayet, west of Chamonix.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
PLAN A VISIT TO CHAMONIXHotels Chamonix Holiday rentals / travel Property for sale Chamonix PLACES TO VISIT NEAR CHAMONIX
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PV Holidays, Chamonix
[Chamonix] Residence Pierre & Vacances Les Aiglons: 500 m from the centre of the resort; Numerous sporting activities; The meeting place of "green mountain" and rock climbing enthusiasts
[Chamonix] Residence Pierre & Vacances Chamois Blanc: 500 m from the heart of the resort; 100 m from the Aiguille du Midi cable way; An indispensable site for those who love « green mountains » and climbing
[Chamonix] Residence Maeva L'Aiguille: Savoyard-style Residence; At the bottom of the Aiguille du Midi cable car; Exceptional views of Mont Blanc
[Chamonix] Residence Maeva La Rivière: 5 minutes from Chamonix and its activities; Numerous excursions in the region ; Exceptional views of Mont Blanc
[Chamonix] Residence Maeva Le Grepon: Aiguille du Midi cableway at 50 metres.; Numerous excursions in the region; Exceptional views of Mont Blanc
[Chamonix] Residences MGM La Ginabelle: World's mountain-climbing capital ; A Residence in the heart of Chamonix ; A highly comfortable residence with a swimming pool
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Map of Chamonix, France |
Places to visit - Chamonix
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map: Chamonix.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Chamonix are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
- Megeve ski resort near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc at 28 km
- Sallanches Recommended stopover town at 26 km
- Sixt-Fer-a-Cheval Most beautiful village at 18 km
- See also Chamonix (version Francais)
Information and photos
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