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.
See more Alpine Ski resorts or search for ski holidays in France.
(Note: photos kindly contributed by Chamonix Chalet)
Visit Chamonix (Rhone-Alpes, Haute-Savoie) travel, gites and hotels
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The Chamonix hotels listed feature descriptions, guest reviews, ratings, location maps, online booking etc. as well as the 'best-price' guarantee. The search for hotels in Chamonix is provided by booking.com. General holiday / vacation optionsSEE OUR GREAT DEALS ON SKI HOLIDAYS IN FRANCE - See Rhone-Alpes chalets for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc holiday rentals - Holiday villages in Rhone-Alpes Holidays nearbyLooking for something close by? See a wide choice of hotels, holiday villages and holiday rentals at: Places to Stay near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Chamonix Car HireVisit Chamonix Car Hire for cheap car hire optons and available car collection points VisitSee Visit Chamonix for places to visit near Chamonix including: a detailed map, villages in bloom and most beautiful villages DiscussAsk questions or leave a comment about Chamonix in our Rhone-Alpes forum Airports near ChamonixChambery airport at 113 km Chamonix property for saleSee Rhone-Alpes property for sale
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Places to visit near Chamonix, France
Explore places of interest within about 70 kilometres on a map at places near Chamonix.
Some places to visit within 30 km: 
28 km: Megeve (ski resort near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc) 26 km: Sallanches (Recommended stopover town)
See also Chamonix (version Francais)
