Chamonix Town

Chamonix the town is more than just another ski resort. It sits at the foot of Mont Blanc, is the mountain climbing mecca of the world and has been a tourist destination for more years than just about anywhere in the Alps.

It is a historic mountain town, as opposed to one of the purpose-built resorts in other areas of France, and is a busy, bustling place. Chamonix is home to some 15,000 inhabitants all year round and Chamonix's summer season is just as important as its winter one. It's dominated by the jaw-dropping beauty of the Mont Blanc Massif - there's no escaping it!

As with any French town the quality and variety of food is superb. A few things on offer include the best burger on the continent and the best BBQ chicken in the world.

On the historical front people have been coming to visit Chamonix Mont Blanc since two British men by the name of Pococke and Windham told the world of their visit in 1741. Subsequetly two locals, Jacques Balmat and Dr. Paccard first got to the summit of Mt Banc in 1786 and its popularity grew.

Although the first luxury hotel was built in 1816 it was not until 1860 that the first carriage road was built between Geneva and Chamonix. The first Winter visitors arrived via the new railway in 1901 and the first winter Olympics was hosted in Chamonix in 1924

Download Chamonix Town Map here

Chamonix Tourist Office
85, place du triangle de l'amitie
74401 Chamonix Mt-Blanc cedex
Tel. 33 (0) 4 50 53 00 24
Fax 33 (0) 4 50 53 58 90

Open everyday from
09:00-19:00