Take a while to listen to the sounds of the chatter in Chamonix and you’ll pick out many international languages; an indication of just how popular this commune is. Though this quaint alpine town is one of the top skiing destinations, it’s popular in summer too with its breathtaking vistas. Not surprisingly, you’ll find a good range of hotels in Chamonix, France that cater to all kinds of travelers. Restaurants in the area are also top class.
While most people come here to enjoy the winter sports, there are other interesting things to do in Chamonix. Whether it’s marveling at the stash of crystals at the Le Musee des Cristaux or holding your breath at the skywalk at Aiguille du Midi, there is enough to charm you off the slopes too.
However, if you plan to be in town only for a short while you could combine it with a trip to Geneva which is a little over an hour by road. That way you’ll kill two birds with one stone as you’ll also be able to explore the top things to do in Geneva.
Where To Stay in Chamonix
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing hotels in Chamonix, France as there is a wide range of options available. However, where you decide to stay in town would depend on your individual interests.
That being said, the center of Chamonix is the perfect base for those wanting to be close to all the action. If you want to enjoy an evening at the bars or hit the slopes early, it’s where you should base yourself. You’ll find more than enough accommodation in town to cater to your specific needs.
The northwestern edge of the town is where you’ll experience the most sunshine. It’s also closer to the Brevent-Flégère ski area and also provides some of the best views of Mont Blanc. Les Gaillands and Les Pelerins are also good areas to base yourself if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation.
For those hankering for the typical Alpine village charm, Argentiere is a good base. It’s eight kilometers from the valley but the main attraction here is the Grands Montets ski area. If you’re driving down from Geneva you may want to look at accommodation at Les Houches, one of the largest towns in the valley. It’s where you’ll find a few good ski-in/ski-out chalets.
Those here on a short trip may want to check out the best hotels in Geneva if that’s your next destination.
Hotel Le Faucigny
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Providing easy access to the Brévent slopes from its location in the middle of town, Hotel Le Faucigny is the perfect base for sports enthusiasts and vacationers. It’s also one of the more affordable hotels in Chamonix, France. Within a stone’s throw from the hotel, you’ll find a number of shops and restaurants. It’s just five minutes on foot to the nearest railway station, Chamonix-Mont Blanc Station.
Completely renovated in Scandinavian style, the charming boutique hotel offers slightly small but attractive rooms. White stained brushed pine fittings, wooden bedside tables, premium bedding, and thick grey carpets characterize the rooms. Subtle pops of red complement the other colors. You’ll find LCD TVs in all rooms as well as free Wifi.
Skiers can store their equipment in the ski room located in the basement and then head to the attractive spa. With a hot tub, sauna, and range of treatments, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a long day out. In the summer you can borrow one of the hotel’s bicycles to explore the area.
Le Refuge des Aiglons
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When it comes to hotels in Chamonix, France, that are big on amenities, Le Refuge des Aiglons, raises its hand. It’s a little removed from the action in town but has enough to keep you busy when you’ve finished exploring the area. A leisurely 10-minute stroll will take you to the center of town, but if you’re in a hurry to hit the slopes, the Aiguille du Midi Cable Car is a four-minute walk from here. Les Houches ski resort is 10 minutes by car from the hotel.
Unlike most hotels in Chamonix, France, Le Refuge des Aiglons has more contemporary décor. It’s a refreshing change from the ski-lodge style guest rooms that most hotels offer. Some rooms offer a minimalist decor with wood accents. All rooms are quite spacious and come with a good range of amenities to add to the comfort of staying here.
The outdoor Nordic-style swimming pool is one of the highlights of the hotel. You’ll also find a hot tub and a range of spa treatments. Families with kids will love the hotel with its Kids area that has a game room and reading section. Older kids can also discover the benefits of the spa with the Toofruit workshop. You’ll also find a good range of board games and wooden games to keep you busy if you stay in.
Another good space to unwind is the ultra-cozy lounge with its club chairs and elegant fireplaces. Keep yourself occupied with a board game or just enjoy the music as you sip your drink. Alternatively, you can satiate your hunger at the airy, colorful restaurant that provides open views of Mont Blanc.
Auberge du Manoir
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Auberge du Manoir sits five minutes outside the main downtown area where you’ll find plenty of good restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Most of the major ski areas are close to the hotel too which makes it one of the best hotels in Chamonix for skiers. It’s also a good place for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Apart from this, you’ll also find some spectacular hiking trails in the summer.
The hotel was once an alpine farm that has been transformed into a charming space that welcomes visitors. From the exterior with its wraparound balcony to the cozy interiors, everything about the hotel is highly appealing. This cozy vibe extends to the rooms with their exposed wooden beams, wooden floors, and wall panels.
A good way to kickstart your day is by enjoying the outstanding breakfast buffet. You won’t find any other dining options on-site but restaurants are an easy walk from here. The hotel’s bar is a good place to get a cup of coffee or a drink. Once you’re done with exploring the area, head to the spa to relax those muscles.
RockyPop Hotel
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On the main road between Les Houches and Chamonix, you’ll find the funky RockyPop Hotel. The hotel is perfect for someone who loves a colorful space. It’s a five-minute drive from here to Chamonix, but don’t despair if you don’t have your own wheels as there are regular buses to the town. Guests at the hotel can enjoy a free ride to the center.
The frontage of the hotel modeled on the lines of a cinema hall is a preview of what is to come. Everything about the interiors is designed to surprise and amuse. Guests can choose from a dorm-style penthouse that sleeps 12 people to a cabin-style room on the mezzanine floor. Though the rooms are comfortable, you probably won’t want to spend too much time in the room.
You’ll find arcade games, a play area for kids, table football and table tennis. If you’re lucky you may be able to enjoy a music gig or a DJ. Although you pay extra for breakfast, the spread in the morning is well worth the extra fee. For other meals, the restaurant offers a good choice.
La Folie Douce Hotel
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If you’re looking for hotels in Chamonix, France that stand out for being different, the hip La Folie Douce Hotel is where you should head. It sits right in the heart of Chamonix just beside a ski lift to the Brévent-Flègere ski area offering a great location for skiers.
Bare brick and unfinished concrete characterize the public areas which feature quite a few quirky elements. You can choose from classy Premium rooms to hostel-style accommodation at the hotel. Families can opt for family rooms or suites.
Most people come to the hotel to enjoy the entertainment at the bar. Apart from the dinner show at the La Petite Cuisine, there’s an acoustic band, an aerialist, and a nightclub. However, it’s not just the party that draws visitors to the hotel. You’ll also find an outdoor pool and spa with a sauna, hammam, and treatment rooms. Guests can also sign up for a yoga class or hit the gym. Besides the main restaurant, you’ll find four other places on site where you can dine.
Hotel Les Grands Montets
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Located right next to the Les Grands Montets cable car, the Hotel Les Grands Montets is one of the more conveniently located hotels in Chamonix, France, for those wanting to hit the ski slopes. It’s a 10-minute walk across the river to the bars and cafes of Argentiere. It’s eight kilometers to Chamonix from here but there are shuttle buses from the hotel to the town. Since the hotel is located on the slopes, you’re guaranteed a 360-degree view of the mountains.
The hotel has been catering to visitors for almost two decades, offering impeccable, friendly service. You’ll find the interiors giving off the traditional Alpine vibe. The guest rooms exude the same ambiance with their reclaimed pine walls and timber ceilings. The suites are especially charming.
Guests have access to an indoor pool and gym as well as free use of the spa with a steam room, sauna, and an outdoor hot tub. In the winter, the lounge is the perfect place to hang out with its roaring fire. You can enjoy a good continental breakfast for an extra fee or head out to the restaurants nearby.
Grand Hotel des Alpes
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Like many hotels in Chamonix, France, the Grand Hotel des Alpes also beautifully combines classic elegance with country comforts. The upscale hotel has a gorgeous, inviting vibe and a great location right in the middle of the town. It towers just over the quaint plaza below, a short distance from the lifts.
The hotel traces its roots to 1840 but a recent renovation in 2019, has transformed the hotel into a gorgeous, elegant space. Guest rooms and suites feel especially luxurious with their tasteful décor and good space. You’ll find a few amenities in the rooms such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, kettles, and a safe. All rooms also feature a balcony. Newlyweds will love the Honeymoon room with its wooden beams and romantic atmosphere.
A delicious breakfast is served either inside or on the terrace in the garden by the river. It’s not included in the rate so you’ll have to pay an extra fee. The hotel has a beautiful garden with a view of the Mont Blanc range. It also has a swimming pool and Jacuzzi with a sauna traditional steam room. At the end of the day, you can enjoy a glass of wine or delicious aperitif in the lounge area.
Les Balcons du Savoy
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Facing the majestic Mont Blanc you’ll find another of the top four-star hotels in Chamonix, France, Les Balcons du Savoy. The setting is perfect with balconies looking out on to the Aiguilles de Chamonix and Mont Blanc. Though the hotel is in a quiet location it’s just five minutes from the downtown restaurants and shops.
It’s not just the view that lures guests to this hotel, but also the cozy atmosphere that envelops the space. You have the comfort of a spacious, fully equipped apartment with a kitchen to add to your comfort. Guests can choose from studios to four-room apartments.
If you’re not on the slopes, there is plenty within the hotel to keep you busy. From an indoor heated swimming pool, game room, and board games, to a sauna and a fitness room, you can be sure that your time here will be well spent.
Chalet Hotel Hermitage
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From its humble beginnings as a family-run inn in the 1920s, the Chalet Hotel Hermitage has gradually been transformed into one of the best hotels in Chamonix, France. Passed down by three generations of the same family, the hotel is located in one of the oldest parts of Chamonix just five minutes from the train station and town center.
The hotel’s gorgeous setting welcomes guests throughout the year to the 28 luxury rooms and suites. Rooms are decorated in solid wood and stone, giving them a rustic, cozy feel. Some rooms come with balconies providing lovely views of the landscape. Larger families can also choose to stay in either of the two separate chalets.
Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast before you hit the trails. You can also opt for a delicious picnic basket on your day out. Once you’re back from your wanderings and activities, enjoy an aperitif at the hotel bar with its tasteful furnishings. You can also enjoy a delicious meal prepared from locally sourced ingredients. If you choose to stay in, you can enjoy a relaxing time in the beautiful garden. There’s also a jacuzzi, relaxation room, sauna, and a natural pool all waiting for you.
Hotel Mont-Blanc Chamonix
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Just beside the Chamonix tourist office in the heart of the town is the gorgeous Hotel Mont-Blanc. The five-star hotel is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels in Chamonix, France, with its renovated interiors and stunning scenery. In operation since 1849, the hotel is a gorgeous blend of urban chic and history.
Though the exteriors of the hotel still maintain the classic look, the sleek interiors are the clear standout. Guest rooms occupy five floors and are done up in warm earthy tones with wood accents. You’ll find some original features such as exposed beams and vaulted ceilings in many rooms. However, the rooms are well stocked with modern comforts to ensure guests have a comfortable stay. If you want the ultimate in luxury, book one of the upgraded Prestige units.
Since this is a five-star hotel you can look forward to plenty of special perks. Right from heated boot racks and door to door shuttles to the lifts in the ski season, you can be sure that you’ll be well taken care of here. There’s a heated outdoor pool as well as a hi-tech fitness room and multi-sensory shower plus sauna and steam room. For an extra fee, you can feast on a sumptuous breakfast or enjoy a meal at the gourmet restaurant Le Matafan.
Heliopic Hotel & Spa
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For those looking for a luxurious hotel that combines the rustic with urban chic, the Heliopic Hotel & Spa is one of the best hotels in Chamonix, France that offers exactly that. The hotel is only a few steps away from the ski slopes and hiking trails. Another advantage is that it’s a stone’s throw from the Aiguille du Midi cable car, making it the perfect base for those wanting to hit the slopes.
The four-star hotel features two chalets that have four stories each. Stone and wood have been deftly used to create a warm cozy atmosphere, reflective of a classic wooden chalet. Not surprisingly, the guest rooms are also comfortable, cozy spaces with a good range of modern comforts. Larger families or groups can look into the larger apartments which come with an equipped kitchen and a separate living area.
The hotel’s common areas are also tastefully done up and have a welcoming vibe. Unwind at the Hotel’s NUXE Spa or enjoy your private sauna or hot tub, available in a few apartments. The indoor pool is also another great place to relax with sunken seating around a firepit. Akashon, the hotel’s onsite restaurant serves up a good menu of delectable dishes. The stylish bar and lounge also feature live entertainment and a good range of drinks.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Chamonix, France:
- Hameau Albert ler – If you’re looking for a Michelin star experience, this restaurant near Chamonix station is where you should head to. Besides the delectable food served, you can also enjoy a good selection of wines from their cellar.
- Micro Brasserie de Chamonix – This Canadian run microbrewery is renowned for its huge burgers and in-house craft beers. You can look forward to some great live music here on most nights or enjoy watching your favorite sport on a large screen.
- Le Matafan – Located in the luxurious Mont Blanc hotel, this restaurant specializes in contemporary, elegantly presented dishes prepared from seasonal ingredients. The stylish interiors add to the experience of dining here.
Recommended Activities In Chamonix, France:
- Winter Dreamland Private Snowshoe Hike – For something unique to do, put on your snowshoes and head out for a hike in the snow. This hike through the Vallon de Berard nature reserve will leave you mesmerized. Along the trail, you’ll also take a break to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.
- Alpine Museum – Get an insight into Chamonix’s past at this museum in the center of town. A visual display of prints and photographs will take you through the history of the town as you explore a bygone era.
