CHAMONIX Mont-Blanc Valley

7/31/2019 CHAMONIX Mont-Blanc Valley

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Is Mont-Blanc really white? Yes, even in the height of summer its

pristine white dome is with you wherever you are in the valley.

But from the explosion of spring owers to the aming colours

of the forests in the autumn sun, our valley produces a rework

display of colours, a unique collection of sensations, emotions and

discoveries.

Here, even the silence has a thousand different shades,

interrupted by distant cow bells or cracking glaciers.

Breathtaking scenery, gorgeous hamlets, starry nights and

crystal-clear water experience summer in its purest form.

4 High altitude

6 Hiking

8 Nature reserves anduntouched countryside

10 13 Top attractions

14 Outdoors / mountainbiking

16 White water,lakes and rivers

18 Culturaland built heritage

20 Events

22 A Mecca for trail running

24 Sustainable tourism

26 Gastronomyand local produce

38 Shopping / nightlife

30 Family holidays

32 35 Mountain lifts

36 38 Directory

39 Diary

40 Practical information

42 Tourist Ofces


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CHRISTOpHEpROFITMountain guide

Christophe Prot is a Chamonix guide who was one of thegreat mountaineering gures of the 1980s.With no fewer than 10 ascents of the North Face of the Eigerand some legendary combination climbs under his belt, heremains one of the great names of solo climbing.

Today enjoying somewhat tamer pursuits, he still believes

that his solo exploits are of great use to him in his professionas a guide. They have taught me to judge the commitment Iam making, the notion of limits and safety.But well before I made those climbs I was obsessed withbecoming a guide, of pursuing this very special profession.Today, working as a guide, he gets pleasure out of sharing

the experience.What is essential is being in the mountainstogether, sharing a goal with a partner.That goal can be a very technical face for an experiencedmountaineer but also an accessible climb for someone whois new to mountaineering. The main thing is the pleasure itbrings. And what gives me pleasure is knowing that it is oftena special moment for my clients.And theres no shortage of options: there are other ways ofbagging a 4000er than climbing Mont-Blanc!

High altitude

On occasions the boom in mountaineering resulted in some critical situations. In 1957,two amateur mountaineers Vincendon and Henry died on Mont-Blanc.The drama led to an increase in the resources and role of La Chamionarde de Secours,the company set up by the local council after the war.Today, this organisation is a mountain safety body.It cooperates actively on an international level with its Italian and Swiss counterparts, doing morethan taking part in rescue operations. Its missions include prevention, running courses and keepingmountaineers informed in order to bring about improvements in equipment and techniques and remindeveryone that responsibility and prudence are the bedfellows of freedom.

lA CHAMONIARdEdE SECOURS :lIBERTY, RESpONSABIlITY ANdSAFETY!

A lONERwITHAlOVEOFSHARING


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pATRICElABARBEPhotographerand mountain leader

Patrice Labarbe, who has been living in the Chamonix Valleysince 1983, has two jobs: he is not only a photographer butalso a mountain leader.These two approaches help his close relationship with thevalley that he knows inside out to ourish. A mountainleader is different to a mountain guide in that he doesntuse any mountaineering equipment.

But that doesnt mean not climbing to high altitude.Because here, for example, a one-hour walk accessible toanyone will take you up to a viewpoint over the fabulousArgentire Glacier.An opportunity to get close to a rare natural phenomenonand enjoy the cool air when theres a heatwave below.

Patrice Labarbe is sometimes asked by clients who arethemselves amateur photographers to show them roundhis secret garden. We get out early in the morning orlate in the evening to some magical places, among therhododendrons or opposite a sheer mountainside.You have time to sit and contemplate the world and getaway from the frenetic pace of modern life.Its as much a passion as a job!

And when you see his pictures (some of which illustrate thisbrochure) you can see that this philosophy suits him.

Hiking

Heres another way to bag Mont-BlancWalk round it! In 7 to 10 days, this great classic long-distance footpath enables you to get to knowthe roof of Europe from every angle.Youll experience the charms of the Chamonix Valleys two close cousins, the Val Ferret in Italyand the Trient Valley in Switzerland. And when your legs are aching after a long day on the trail,just remember that some of the competitors in the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc complete the sameroute in less than 24 hours!

TOURdU MONT-BlANC :EIGHTdAYS, THREECOUNTRIES, ONEGREATClASSIC

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Spying an eagle, spotting a chamois standing still on a ledge,coming across an ibexYou dont need to travel to the other end of the planet to enjoysuch rare experiences.

Between them, the Chamonix Valleys three nature reservescover an area of 4,400 hectares and offer an unrivalledopportunity for spotting wildlife.The Carlaveyron, Aiguilles Rouges and Brard Reserves coveraltitudes from 1,100 to 3,000 metres.They are packed with wildlife, and also home to lakes that offeran additional attraction for hikers.

Nature reserves and untouched countryside

A nature reserve is an area of countryside where the conservation of the wildlife, plant life, soil,water, mineral and fossil deposits and natural environment in general is of particular importance.

What that means in practice is that any development in a nature reserve is strictly regulated.It is not closed off to hikers; on the contrary.But you have to play by the rules. You are not allowed to camp (only wild camping is toleratedbetween 7pm and 9am), paraglide over the Aiguilles Rouges (so as not to disturb the birds of prey),make a re or take a dog with you, even on a lead.The wardens are there to ensure the rules are followed, but also to provide informationand help you discover these exceptional places. You can easily nd them at the visitor centreon the Col des Montets.

dIdYOUSAYARESERVE?

NATUREINAllITSGlORY


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Top attractions

THEMONTENVERSTRAIN MERdE GlACETake a ride on the famous little red train to an altitude of 1,913m at the foot of the Mer de Glace, a living witness of climatechange in the modern age.Visit the glaciorium and learn all about the life of a glacier andhow it changes over time Soak up the history of the site, learnabout the rst tourists who came to the valley and nd outwhich celebrities visited this attraction and fell in love with it,or even found inspiration from it Experience the passion of thecrystal seekers who look tirelessly for THE unique piece in thesemountainsYoull never forget the atmosphere and beauty of this magicalplace

TRAMwAYdU MONT-BlANCOne of the last cog railways, the highest in France, takes you upto one of the starting points for the ascent of Mont-Blanc, or toenjoy the amazing and magnicent panorama all the way alongyour trip

Its reputation precedes it This imposing and magnicent peak towering at 3,842 metresabove the Chamonix Valley is the agship attraction of this magical place.

Its a gateway to the high mountains, accessible to everyone but still as wild as it ever was.

In a 20-minute journey ever higher above the valley you reach a height of 3,777 metres to discovera truly breathtaking view. You can soak up the atmosphere, take deep breaths of mountain air andstore up a host of imaginary exploits

Take the lift up the nal few metres to the summit terrace, a place you will never forgetthe beauty of the scenery unfolding around you for 360 is simply incredible

A must-have experience that makes you realise just how small you are and enjoythe serene vastness of the mountains!

THE AIGUIllEdU MIdI

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The scenery is an important part of any show.We have laid on the best for you, offering you the opportunity toexperience some unforgettable moments with the entire Mont-Blanc range as the backcloth.

And yet these are places you can get to with all the family, likethe Parc de Merlet where chamois, ibex and marmots play in thesun.Le Brvent, an amazing balcony viewpoint over the valley, or LaFlgre, where the mountain lifts will whisk you effortlessly upto the refreshing Lac Blanc.

Here you dont have to give your legs a hard time to give youreyes a treat.

Top attractions FE


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CCIlEET CdRICRAVANElMountain biking champions

Professional mountain bikers since 1999, Cdric and ClineRavanel are a daring duo.They may have found their hearts desire in each other, butmountain biking gets their heart racing too.And were not just talking metaphorically. On an Olympic trail,explains Cdric, youre constantly on overdrive, your pulseracing at an average of 180 beats per minute.Their sort of all-out mountain biking is physically demanding.On a descent, you have to pull out all the stops and let go.But they still like the fact that the mountain biking is accessibleto a huge range of people, and their valley offers everything youneed. Here, there are singletracks (narrow trails that are greatfun to ride) as well as bike parks and broad tracks for beginners.Theres something for everyone.And the icing on the cake? The biking comes with views ofglaciers!

Outdoors / mountain biking

The Chamonix Valley publishes a mountain biking guide with details of around twentybiking routes for all abilities. For your rst foray into mountain biking we suggest youmake the most of the ski lifts that operate in the summer to save your legs.

You can also use the l ocal bus and rail services to exploit the valleys potential withoutnecessarily having to ride circular routes. On your bike!

TRY CHIllEd-OUT MOUNTAIN BIKING!

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Rushing noisily in the mountain torrents, packed with shin the rivers, thirst-quenching after a long walk, soothing inthe mountain lakes: the pure water from the glaciers is thesource of a host of activities to ll your summer: rafting,canyoning, y shing or quite simply adding to the scenery.

White water, lakes and rivers

THE AMAZING dIOSAZ GORGEIn the Diosaz Gorge, water has carved out a myriad of fascinatingshapes, wearing away the rock to create an i mpressive landscapejostling with rushing waterfalls.Next to the natural bridge is an enormous boulder suspendedbetween two rock walls: amazing!


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A VAllEY OF MANY ARCHITECTURAl STYlES

Here, when the curious visitor looks up, theres moreto see than mountains.Superb Belle poque and Art Nouveau faades remind us all thatthe mountain tourism industry of the well-to-do of prestige wasborn at the foot of Mont-Blanc.And they rub shoulders with a host of other architecturalcuriosities which, from the traditional chalet or theneoclassical Sardinian building to the chapel, tell the story ofcountless migrations, changes of sovereignty and sociologicaldevelopments that have left their mark in the streets andhamlets of the valley. Exploring this extremely varied heritageis another way of discovering and getting to know the valley.

Cultural and built heritage AN OpEN-AIR MUSEUM


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Events

A VAllEYwITHNEVERAdUllMOMENT

With the Musicaltitude Festival, the traditional Fte des Guidesin Chamonix and the free Servoz en bullition Festival, there arefestive goings-on here all summer long!

Cosmo Jazz is a crazy idea: inviting the top jazz artists to play in front ofthe worlds most stunning backdrop.And when the brass blast out in the cool mountain air, the mix is simply magical.

An unmissable celebration of jazz throughout the valley and a great experiencefor those new to jazz thanks to Andr Manoukian, the brains behind the event.

COSMOjAZZ

BlACK SESSIONINFRONTOF MONT-BlANC


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A Mecca for trail running

Alongside the legendary UTMB, the Chamonix Valley offers trail runners a host ofruns and combination races throughout the summer:the Cross du Mont-Blanc, the Marathon du Mont-Blanc, the Trail des Aiguilles Rougesand the Chirvathlon, an original team triathlon event around Servoz.

The footpaths that these races use are of course the perfect training ground foranyone who wants to have a go at trail running while on holiday.

A SUMMER OF CHAllENGES

Portrait

KIlIANjORNETCompetitive trail runner

The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc might seem like asuperhuman challenge strictly for masochists.But three-time winner Kilian Jornet has a big grin on his faceeven when hes in the thick of the race. He particularly likesthis race. Mont-Blanc is a mountain unlike any other. It has aparticular feel about it.As for the UTMB, its rst and foremost a friendly

get-together of trail runners, a meeting of peoplewho love the mountains.Pleasure is the watchword for this unrivalled athlete, who isconvinced that this type of race is won with the head.My driving force is rst and foremost my love for themountains, taking on the elements.Here, you adapt to nature, and never the other way round.

A MECCA FOR TRAIl RUNNING


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Sustainable tourism

Aware of the environmental issues affecting its outstanding natural heritage, the Chamonix ValleyCommunity of Communes has adopted the French governments Plan Climat Energie Territorial (PCET)energy plan. This scheme aims to r educe local greenhouse gas emissions in the long term.

Rather than unilaterally imposing measures, it has chosen to involve the local players closelyin the process: the associations, businesses, institutions and of course the citizens of the valley havecome together to discuss and draw up a concrete plan of action for the next ten years.

This covers energy saving, managing local industry and new initiatives in the tourist economy.Environmental education has not been forgotten either, because this will form the basis for a futurelong-lasting change in behaviour.

Transport policy lies at the heart of this scheme, with an innovative tram-train project complementedby a sustainable transport programme. We must do everything we can to ensure that the valleysenvironmental policy is worthy of the unique mountains surrounding it.

plAN ClIMAT ENERGIE: THE COMMITMENTS OF AN ICONIC VAllEY

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ETIENNEKlEINPhysicist at the CEA(Atomic Energy Commissariat)

tienne Klein is a scientist well known to the French public,mainly through his popular-science books about matter andtime.He lives in Paris but hes been coming to the Chamonix Valleyregularly for thirty years.Why do you keep coming back to Chamonix?Lots of physicists seem to be attracted to high mountains, I

dont know why, but its a fact. As for me, I rst felt this specialattraction, this draw to the mountains at a very young age.In my opinion there are two types of people, and you can spotthem in the street here.Some people look straight ahead, and other cant help but raisetheir eyes to the mountains.Im one of them.

A partner of the Chamonix Festival des Sciences for years,tienne Klein has often taken part in discussions aboutthe future of the valley, particularly about sustainabledevelopment. These events that raise awareness and promptpopular debate are important, and this valley is active in thisrespect.Sustainable tourism is an important issue here, where there isan urban area so close to the peaks.The mountains must remain unspoilt by the fact that they aredifcult to get to. Its when youre up there that you realisejust how beautiful and fragile they are.

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Fish a hunk of Tomme cheese, some air-cured ham and acrusty cob loaf out of your rucksack and youre alreadyexperiencing the valleys gastronomic reputation.

But dont stop there! The local produce is about more thancheese and saucisson. Some top restaurants await you,and we have no shortage of ways of encouraging you to trythe international produce of Mont-Blanc, from the wines ofSwitzerland to the produce of the Aosta Valley.

And those looking for more exotic avours also have lots oftasty treats in store in Chamonixs Indian, Chinese, Mexican,Japanese and Swedish restaurants.

Gastronomy and local produce

MOUNTAINS wITH A CApITAl MMMMMM!


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CHAMONIX: THE SHOPPING FACE OF MONT-BLANC

There are lots of good things about living in a town closeto the countryside, and although not large, Chamonixoffers all the benets of a large town, a stones throwfrom Mont-Blanc.

Here, theres no off-season. Both summer and wintertourists from all over the world throng to shops thathave nothing to envy those in Europes great capitals,in a place at a human scale.

Frances second highest prole city to foreigners afterParis, Chamonix keeps all its promises to those who dontthink that the Great Outdoors and shopping have to bemutually exclusive.

Shopping / nightlife

GREAT OUTdOORS, ANd GREAT SHOppING!

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Family holidays

St Bernard farm

Paradis des Praz

Water sports centre

Adventure trail

Kids mountain biking

Climbing school

Walking with donkeys

Horse-drawn cart rides

Summer tobogganing

Mont-Blanc may be a giant but it is very accessible tobudding mountain explorers, who can take advantage ofa host of easy options for days out that will leave a bigimpression

Its also a marvellous childhood memory factory: themarmot on the lookout beside its hole, the chamoiscareering down a dizzying slope, the mountaineers deckedout in all their gear setting out to take on a l egendaryface

Here, theres adventure around every corner!

SpENdING YOUR HOlIdAY NExT TO A GIANT HElpS YOU GROw BIG ANd STRONG!

Mountainlifts


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ON HOlIdAY, GO AS YOUplEASE FOR THE RIGHTpRICEGet the MONT-BLANC MultiPass and use the lifts to

get to everywhere in the Valley whenever you want

without ever having to buy another ticket.

You choose the duration and option (consecutive or

non-consecutive days) and organise your sightseeing

and trips the way you want to, all for a great price.

Mountain lifts

Avantages You pay only once Unlimited access to all the attractions

run by Compagnie du Mont-Blanc:- Aiguille du Midi (not including

the Mont-Blanc Panoramic gondola lift),- Montenvers Mer de Glace- Mont-Blanc Tram Tramway

du Mont-Blanc- Grands Montets- Brvent/Flgre- Balme area- Le Prarion gondola lift- Bellevue cable car Free place reservation on the Aiguille

du Midi cable car and on the lift atthe top of the Aiguille du Midi

InformationsCompagnie du Mont-Blanc,www.compagniedumontblanc.comTel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75Ipad, Iphone and Android applications

Consecutive days Adult16 years +Reduce

Child (4-15

1 jour 52,20 44,0

2 days 65,90 56,00

3 days 76,10 64,00

4 days 91,30 77,60

5 days 101,40 86,20

6 days 111,60 94,90

7 days 121,70 103,4

8 days 131,80 112,00

9 days 142,00 120,7

10 days 147,10 125,0

11 days 152,10 129,3

12 days 157,20 133,60

13 days 162,30 138,0

14 days 167,30 142,2

15 days 172,40 146,5

Non-consecutive days Adult

16 years +

Reduce

Child (4-15

2 days* 76,10 56,0

3 days* 91,30 64,00*To be used over aperiod of7 consecutive calend

4 days** 101,40 77,60

5 days** 111,60 86,206 days** 131,80 94,90

**To be used over aperiod of 15 consecutive calend

10 days*** 162,30 125,0

15 days*** 213,00 146,5Personaland not transferable photo obligatory(***). Use untiln

MONT-BLANC MultiPass summer 2012

Compulsoryhands-freecard: 3.00* **Photo required for passesvalid for 4non-consecutive daysor more and for 10 cons

Documentnot legallybinding.The information and pricesquoted byCompagnie du Mont-Blancare for information purpoGeneraltermsand conditionsof sale are available atallticketofces.

BRING THE FAMILY!2 adults + 1 paying child = your other children FREE

Mountainlifts

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Mountain lifts

Lifts are accessible with the MONT-BLANC Multipass

Mountain lifts in Les HouchesBoth lifts are accessible with the MONT-BLANC MultiPass.

Le Prarion gondola liftF-74310 Les HouchesTel : + 33 (0)4 50 54 42 65Fax : + 33 (0)4 50 54 55 [email protected]

Panoramic8-seater gondolastake youup in justa fewminutesto the Plateau duPrarion, the starting point ofsome greatmountain biking and paragliding routes!Walkershave the opportunityto explorethe Alpine meadowsofLa Charme,stock up on cheese and take the forestroad back down to the traditionalchaletsin Charousse.Please note, thisliftis one ofthe rstin France designed and builttoaccommodate mobility-impairedvisitorsin complete comfort.

Bellevue cable carF-74310 Les HouchesTel : + 33 (0)4 50 54 70 [email protected]

For mountaineers, Bellevue isthe mainaccesspoint to Mont-Blanc.Itsthe starting pointofthe famousTourofMont-Blanc, a walking route accessibleto everyone which takes7 to 10 days.

Itisalso a greatwayto getup high andadmire a360 panoramaofthe Mont-Blancrange, the Aiguillesde Chamonix and theFiz Mountains.Experienced and beginner mountain bikersalso frequentlyuse thislift and theplayground ofenergetic biking trailshere.

C at ego ri es Mo unt ai n l if t fa re s f or Le s Ho uc he s, s umme r 20 12

Ticketsfor LePrarionandBellevuelifts Single R eturn Day pass

Adults from 16 years 11,50 14,00 16,00

Children 4 to 15 years inclusive 9,80 11,90 13,60

Family (2 adults + 2 children from the same family) -42,00(+7.00/

additionalchild)-

Ticketsfor LesHouches-Bellevue-Mont-Lachat(with the Tramwaydu Mont-Blanc) Single R eturn Day pass

Adults from 16 years 19,10 26,70 -

Children 4 to 15 years inclusive 15,90 22,50 -

THE AMAZING ATTRACTIONS OF CHAMONIx MONT-BlANC VAllEY

*Family: 2 adults(parentso r grandparents) +2 children from the same family.

Aiguille du Midi(3842 m)

Accessible from Chamonix bycable car in just 20 minutes,the viewing terrace and visi-tor facilities on the Aiguilledu Midi provide a spectacular360 view of Mont Blanc andthe French, Swiss and ItalianAlps.

Return trip: Adults

(16 years and over):45.60

Children (4-15 years):38.50

Family*:136.90Opening periodsa nd accessto thePanoramicMont-Blanc: please contactusfor further information.

Montenvers-Merde Glace (1913 m)

The Montenvers cog railwayruns from Chamonix up tothe foot of the famous Merde Glace (1,913 m) in 20minutes, for access to thegrotto cut into the heart ofthe glacier every year.

Return trip: Adults(16 years and over): 26.40


Family*:79.10

Tramway duMont-Blanc(2380 m)(SaintGervais- Le Fayet)

Setting out from Le Fayet,enjoy an amazing panoramaof the Bionnassay Glacieron a cog-railway trip to thethreshold of the high moun-tains.

Return trip: Adults(16 years and over), journey up

to the Mont Lachat: 30.40


Family*:91.30

Grands Montets(3275 m)

Starting from Argentire,the cable car trip to the Pla-teau de Lognan (1,972 m) andon to the Aiguille des GrandsMontets (3,300 m) providesa magnicent panorama ofthe summits of the MontBlanc range.

Return trip: Adults



Family*:82.20

Brvent-Flgre(2525 m)

Facing due south across tothe Mont Blanc range, Br-vent-Flgre is the startingpoint of some accessibleclassic long-distance foot-paths that lead to severalmountain lakes.

Brvent:Return trip: Adults



Family*:79.10

Flgre (LIndex) :

Adults (16 years and over):14.20


Family*:73.00

Balme (2270 m)(Le Tour - Vallorcine)

Access vast Alpine meadowsjust a few kilometres fromthe Swiss border.

Le Tour - Col de Balme:



Family*:73.00

Vallorcine gondola lift:



Family*:42.60

Documentnot legallybinding. Pricesquoted are for information purposesand maybe subject to change.Specialrates and other products: information and sale directlyatall ticketofces.

OUTDOOR ACTIVIT IESMOUNTAIN PROFESSIONALSDirectory

ActivitiesResort Telephone Web


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INDOOR ACTIVIT IES

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Resort Servi ce provi der Mountaineering Kayaking Canyoning Orienteering Rockclimbing HydrospeedNordicwalking P a ra g li d ing F i sh i ng Ra ft i ng Horse r i di ng

Glacierhiking V i a corda V i a ferrata

Mountainbiking Telephone Web

Se rvo z O d yss e M o ntagn e l +33(0)450 91 20 83 www.odyssee-montagne.fr

LesHouches Adventure Canyoning EscaladeJean Ladurelle +33(0)610 6730 02 www.ace-chamonix.com

ChamAventure +33(0)4 50 54 50 76 www.cham-aventure.com

Compagnie desGuidesde Chamonix Mont-Blanc +33(0)450 54 50 76 www.chamonix-guides.com

volution 2 +33(0)4 50 54 41 02 www.evolution2-chamonix.com

Chamonix AAhaut vol, paragliding, skiing,mountain activities +33(0)680 03 2474

Absolute Chamonix, paragliding,speed riding, high altitude activities +33(0)608 23 92 65 www.absolute-chamonix.com

Ailes du Mont-Blanc +33(0)6 20 46 55 57 www.lesailesdumontblanc.com

AntecimesSummits,paragliding +33(0)68401 2600 www.summits.fr

Association InternationalesdesGuides du Mont-Blanc +33(0)450 53 2705 www.guides-du-montblanc.com

Aventure en tte +33(0)4 50 54 05 11 www.aventureentete.com

ChamAventure +33(0)4 50 53 55 70 www.cham-aventure.com

Chamonix Experience +33(0)4 50 54 09 36 www.chamex.com

Chamonix parapente +33(0)6 61 84 61 50 www.chamonix-parapente.fr

Compagnie desGuides deChamonix Mont-Blanc +33(0)450 53 00 88 www.chamonix-guides.com

Mountain biking school +33(0)6 19 75 69 16

Evolution 2 +33(0) 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com

Oxo Mont Blanc Canyoning +33(0)6 77 88 24 50 www.canyoning-chamonix.com

Peak Experience +33(0)6 20 63 18 52 www.peakexperience.com

Peak Powder +33(0)6 89 06 51 03 www.peakpowder.com

Prestige outdoors specialists +33(0)6 80 20 83 70 www.prestigeoutdoor.com

Stage expditions +33(0)4 50 55 94 26 www.stageexpe.com

UCPA Cosmique +33(0)4 50 53 12 05 www.ucpa-vacances.com

Argentire UCPA Glaciers +33(0)4 50 54 07 11

Vallorcine Canyon-club du Mont-Blanc +33(0)4 50 54 62 96 www.maisondelamontagnevallorcine.fr

Chamonix Aventure +33(0)9 77 76 13 62 www.chamonix-aventure.com

Maison des Guides de Vallorcine +33(0)4 50 54 60 69 www.maisondelamontagnevallorcine.fr


Servoz oz Diosaz Gorge At tr ac ti on v is it + 33 (0 )4 5 0 4 7 2 1 1 3 www.lesgorgesdeladiosaz.com

Socitdepcheetdeprotectiondu milieuaquatique L ak e a nd r iv er sh i ng + 33 ( 0) 6 80 36 70 76

Servoz TennisClub Tennis +33(0)4 50 47 21 68

LesHouches ches Playgrounds LesChavants and the lake

Arbre Aventure treetop trail Adventure park +33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com

Bike park Mountain bi king +3 3(0 )4 50 54 70 93 www.bikeparkbellevue.com

IndianaKid Adventure park +33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com

Downhillmountain biking runs Mountain bi king +3 3(0 )4 50 54 70 93 www.bikeparkbellevue.com

Ptitkid Adventure park +33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com

Socitdepcheetdeprotectiondu milieuaquatique

Lake and river shing +33(0)6 80 36 70 76

TennisClub Tennis +33(0)4 50 54 43 37 http://tc.leshouches.free.fr

Union de Ptanque du Mont-Blanc Ptanque (boules) +33(0)4 50 54 52 64 http://upmb.leshouches.perso.sfr.fr

Chamonix Playgroundsin Chamonix BehindChamonixTownHall,MJC,andinthe moraineatArgentireRock climbing LesGaillands,LaJoux, PierredOrthaz,etc.

Golf Golf +33(0)4 50 53 06 28 www.golfdechamonix.com

Miniature golf Minigol fcourse +3 3( 0) 4 5 0 55 82 56

Huskydalen Canirando (summer dogsled) +33(0)6 84 99 34 67 www.huskydalen.com

Summer tobogganing Summer tobogganing +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com

Paintball Paint Ball +33(0)6 07 36 01 51

Parcde loisirs de Chamonix Leisure park +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com

Adventure trail Treetop trail +33(0)6 63 77 78 03 www.chamonixparc.com

Fitnesstrail LesGaillands

Fishing Rivers,lakesandmountaintorrents

Ptanque (boules) Ptanque (boules) +33(0)4 50 90 80 17

Outdoor swimming pool Pool- Water garden -Water slide +33(0)4 50 53 09 07 www.chamonix.com

Athleticstrack

Skate park

Tennis Clayand articialcourts+ squash +33(0)450 53 28 40 www.chamonix.com

Argentire Chamonix MontBlanc hlicos Panoramichelicopter ights +33(0)4 50 54 13 82 www.chamonix-helico.fr

Mountain biking Downhill, enduro, crosscountry +33(0)4 50 53 00 24 www.chamonix.com

Vallorcine LaFerme de Vallorcine +33(0)4 50 54 69 42

MarcVan Leynseele Mountain shing guide +33(0)6 15 11 77 58 www.pecheetrando.com

Downhillmountain biking runs Downhillmountain biking +33(0)4 50 54 60 71 www.vallorcine.com

Socit de pche S al e o f sh in g p er mi t s + 3 3( 0 )4 5 0 5 4 60 71 www.vallorcine.com

Municipaltenniscourts Tennis +33(0)4 50 54 60 45 www.vallorcine.fr

ActivitiesResort

LesHouches Cinebus- Espace Olca M ob il e c in em a

MontBlanc Escalade I nd oo r c li mb in g w al l

Chamonix Bowling centre Bowling -Pool- Indoor mini-golf

Casino S lotma ch ines -Ta b le ga mes

Water sportscentre Pool- Sauna-Steambath- Watergarden

Cinema 3 screens

Climbing wall Rock climbing

Skating rink I ce sk at i ng - I ce ho ck ey

Weight training room, tness and gym Weighttraining FitnessGym

Tennis Tenni s- Squash

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MUSEUMS AND LIBRARIES

Directory


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ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS

CHILDCARE FACILIT IES




Servoz Servoz library +33(0)450 4728 75 [email protected]

Maison de lAlpage +33(0)6 70 61 07 [email protected]

Guided heritage tours +33(0)450 4721 68 www.servoz.com

LesHouches LesHouches library +33(0)450 5439 83 [email protected]

Museum ofMountain and RuralLife +33(0)450 5454 74 [email protected]

Guided heritage tours +33(0)450 55 50 62 www.leshouches.com

Chamonix Libraryof the Amisdu vieuxChamonixassociation +33(0)450 55 9467 www.amis-vieux-chamonix.org

Library/gameslibrary +33(0)450 53 3482

ChamonixlesPlerins Library +33(0)450 55 92 97

Chamonix ClochesArtisanalesDevouassoud Ha nd -m ad e b el ls + 33 (0 )4 5 0 5 3 0 4 88 www.sonnettesdevouassoud.com

Espace Tairraz -Mountaineering Centre

Exhibitionofcrystalsandinteractiveexhibitionaboutmountaineering +33(0)450 55 53 93

Alpine Museum +33(0)450 53 25 93

Muse Wibault E xh ib i ti o n o f p ai nt i ng s + 33 ( 0) 4 5 0 5 3 0 4 3 5 www.wibault.org

Little sightseeing train +33(0)4 50 53 11 24 www.traincham.com

Guided heritage tours Guided tour s ofC hamon ix +33(0)4 5 0 53 00 24Argentire Library +33(0)450 5403 06

Vallorcine Vallorcine library +33(0)450 3444 08 [email protected]

Visitorcentreforthe AiguillesRougesNatureReserve +33(0)450 5402 24 www.rnaiguillesrouges.org

Muse vallorcinLaMaison de Barberine

+33(0)450 5463 19 http://maisonbarberine.over-blog.com/

Servoz Rose bonbon A ge s 2 m o nt h s / 4 y rs + 3 3( 0) 6 3 2 01 9 3 17 [email protected]

LesHouches Club enfantstouristique Ages 1 8 months / 1 0 yr s +33(0)6 86 32 5 6 4 2 enfancejeunesse@leshouch es.fr

Daynursery A ge s 3 mo nt hs / 3 y rs + 3 3( 0 )4 5 0 54 4 8 19 [email protected]

Eventsorg.and leisurecentre A ge s 3 ye ar s / 1 8 y rs + 3 3( 0 )4 5 0 54 4 3 02 [email protected]

Chamonix CAP Loisirs M in im u m a ge 3 yr s + 3 3( 0 )4 5 0 5 3 12 24 www.mjchamonix.org

Cham Aventure Sportssessionsforages3 to17 +33(0)4 50 53 55 70 www.cham-aventure.com

Evo2 Multi-activitiesfor ages6to 14 +33(0)4 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com

ParadisdesPraz Refreshments,games,ponies,etc. +33(0)6 61 73 23 00

Chamonix Leisure Park Summer tobogganing, games, etc. +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com

ParcoursAventure Chamonix Adventure trailmin. age 3 +33(0)6 63 77 78 03 www.parcoursaventurechamonix.com

Vallorcine Leisure centre Ages 3-11 yrs + 33 (0) 4 5 0 5 3 12 24 www.mjcchamonix.org

LesHouches Summer sled trip with huskies Activities with huskies+33(0)6 84 99 34 67+33(0)4 50 55 50 62

www.huskydalen.com

Payotgoatfarm V is it a n d f ar m s na ck s + 3 3( 0) 6 8 7 4 1 71 5 7 www.lafermeapayot.com

SaintBernard farm Visitofthe breeding kennels +33(0)4 50 47 23 60 paysdumontblanc.chiens-de-france.com

LaCompagnie desnes W al ks w it h a d on ke y + 33 (0 )4 5 0 47 2 6 18

MerletWildlife Park S ee t he A lp in e wi l dl if e + 3 3( 0 )4 5 0 5 3 47 8 9 www.parcdemerlet.com

Horse riding Horse rides +33(0)6 13 08 33 58 www.skijoeringmontblanc.com

Vallorcine Evasion Nordique canirando Summer sledding with huskies +33(0)6 82 09 50 03 www.evasion-nordique.com

Valhorse inn Pony rides +33(0)6 82 11 53 21

AccommodationFor details of accommodation availabilityin Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley log on tothe tourist ofce websites.Brochures are also available on requestfrom the 4 tourist ofces.

Servoz/Les Houcheswww.servoz.comwww.leshouches.com

Chamonix Mont-Blanc

www.chamonix.com

Vallorcinewww.vallorcine.com

Argentirewww.chamonix.com

Business tourism Salle municipale Jean Morel - ServozTl. +33 (0)4 50 47 21 51

Espace Olca - Les Houches

Tl : +33 (0) 4 50 55 50 [email protected]

Bureau des congrs - ChamonixTl. +33 (0)4 50 53 75 50www.congres-chamonix.com

Cinma Vox - Chamonix

Meeting roomsTl. +33 (0)4 50 55 89 98

Thursday 31 May to Saturday 2 June2nd Mont-Blanc Versant Durable Festival,Chamonix

Friday 29 JuneKM VERTICAL Chamonix

Friday 29 June to Sunday 1 JulyMont-Blanc cross-country raceand marathon, Chamonix

Thursday 12 and Friday 13 JulyClimbing World Cup and climbing Festival,Chamonix

Friday 13 July Bastille Day celebrations- Fte Nationale and reworks, Chamonix

- Concert and Fte Nationale with the LesHouches municipal wind band, Servoz

Saturday 14 JulyBastille Day celebrations

- Fte Nationale and ceremony,Chamonix; rework display, Argentire

- Refreshments, rework display andDance at the Lac des Chavants,Les Houches

Saturday 14 July

Vallorcine: concert by Echo du Buetin Place de la Gare, danceand rework display

Tuesday 17 JulyConcert, Baroque festival, VallorcineChurch

Thursday 19 and Friday 20 JulyServoz en bullitionMusic, meal and lm showing, Servoz

Monday 23 July to Saturday 4 AugustFestival Rencontres et Nature,Les Houches & Servoz - 16th Festival

Wednesday 24 to Sunday 29 JulyCosmojazz Festival, Chamonix Valley

Thursday 2 AugustPiano concert with Vronique Thual Chau-vel, Vallorcine Church

Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 August45th minerals fair, Chamonix

Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 AugustMusicaltitude Festival, Chamonix

Friday 10 to Sunday 12 AugustMountain Film Festival, Chamonix

EVENTS DIARY

Espace Tairraz

Practical information


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G E T T I N G H E R E LOCAL TRAVELRoadRoad travel information

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 05 51

Via France

Accessed directly via the Autoroute Blanche (A40),which connects to the European motorway network.

Via Switzerland

Motorway to Martigny, Col de la Forclaz,Col des Montets.

Via Italy

15 km from the border via the Mont-Blanc Tunnel.

RailSNCF railway stations in the resorts

St Gervais - Le Fayet / Vallorcine / Martigny (CH) line.TGVConnections:Annecy,Bellegarde,Genve,Lausanne

SNCF information:www.ter-sncf.comwww.voyages-sncf.com

AirGeneva International Airport

(88 km)Tel +41 (0) 22 717 71 11

Lyon - Saint Exupry International Airport

(220 km)Tel +33 (0)8 26 800 826

Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport

(Annecy - 90 km)Tel +33 (0)4 50 27 30 06

Coach services& airport transfers

Daily connections with Geneva and Italy.

SAT

Tel/Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15www.sat-montblanc.com

Alternatives to the car:unlimited use of rail and busservices throughout the Valley

Mont-Blanc Express Train

The SNCF line serves all the villages from Saint Ger-vais / Le Fayet to Martigny (Switzerland), via Servoz,Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentire and Vallorcine.

Travel on the SNCF line from Servoz to Vallorcine isfree and unlimited to holders of a Carte dHte guestcard provided by your accommodation provider onarrival.

Trains run approximately every hour.Information: at SNCF railway stationsOr on the websites:www.ter-sncf.com

www.voyages-sncf.com

Bus / Shuttle services

Scheduled urban transport services throughout thevalley (free between Servoz and Le Tour to holders ofa Carte dHte guest card provided by your accommo-dation provider on arrival).

Chamonix Bus

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 05 55Fax +33 (0)4 50 55 95 [email protected]

WEATHER / SAFETYCAR PARKS / TAXISPRIVATE TRANSPORT

EMERGENCY NUMBERS / USEFUL NUMB

Car parks in Chamonix4,000 parking spaces.3 covered car parks: Chamonix sud,Saint Michel and Place du Mont-Blanc.Parking for up to 1 hour: free.Free Les Mulets shuttle service around the towncentre.

Chamonix Parc Auto

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 65 71

Car parks in Les Houches

Le Tourchet: 60 spacesVillage centre: 80 spacesLes Chavants: 200 spaces

Taxis, private transportA list of taxi rms and private transport operators isavailable on request from the tourist ofces.

Mto France7-day forecast updated 3 times a day+33 (0)8 99 71 02 [email protected] bulletins posted at the Maison

de la Montagne and Tourist Ofce.

Mto Chamonix5-day forecastwww.chamonix.com

Ple montagne riskMountain weather information and safety display.Free admission..

Maison de la Montagne

Open Monday to Saturday from9am to 12pm and 3pm to [email protected]

Ofce de Haute-MontagneA central point providing comprehensive informationon conditions and safety in the mountains.

Maison de la Montagne

Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 12pmand 3pm to 6pm.Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 22 [email protected]

Fire service 18SAMU (medical emergencies) 15International emergency number

from a mobile phone: 112

Ambulances

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 46 20

Chamonix Hospital

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 84 00509, route des plerins - Chamonix

Sallanches Hospital

Tel +33 (0)4 50 47 30 30380, rue de lhpital - Sallanches(has a haemodialysis centre)

Medical analysis laboratory

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 07 2532, rue Helbronner - Chamonix

P.G.H.M (mountain rescue)

Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 16 8969, route de la Mollard - Chamonix

Overnight, Suholiday servicOut-of-hours docto

15

Out-of-hours dentis

Tel +33 (0)4 50 66 14

There are general praLes Houches, Chamonspecialists: paediatricophthalmology, etc.

Full list availabthe Tourist Of

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40 41

Tourist ofces


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Vallorcinewww.vallorcine.com

Vallorcine Tourist Ofce**Le Bett - F-74660 VallorcineTel +33 (0)4 50 54 60 71Fax : +33(0)4 50 54 61 [email protected] - www.vallorcine.com

>Opening hours

July and August:Daily from 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pmOther periods: 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pmClosed on Sundays, Wednesdays and public holidays

Notre Village Terre dAvenirlabel:Thislabel, awarded by the Association Nationale NotreVillage Terre dAvenir (recognised bythe French MinistryofEcology, Energy, Sustainable Developmentand the Seaasa n expertbodyin the implementation ofthe Agendas21 byrural localauthorities), enablesa localAgenda21 programme ofenvironmental, economicand socialinitiativesto be pursued.

Servozwww.servoz.com

Les Houches and Servoz Tourist Ofce***Le bouchet - F-74310 ServozTel +33 (0)4 50 47 21 [email protected] - www.servoz.com

>Opening hours

July and August: Monday to Saturday from 9am to12pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pmOther dates: 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pmClosed on Sundays and public holidays

HolidayplannerPrepareyourholidayinServozandLesHouchestheeasywaywiththenew onlinetoolavailableon ourwebsites.Telluswhatyourelookingforandwhatyouwanttodoandwellprovideyouwith varioussuggestionsandall theinformationyouneedtopersonaliseyour holiday.Youcan goback toand changeyourselectionsat anytime.Create yourholidayplanneratwww.servoz.comorwwww.leshouches.com

FamillePlus Montagnelabel:TheresortofLesHouchesisoneoftheFrenchresortsawardedtheFamillePlus Montagnelabel.Thislabelis grantedinrecognitionof thefacilitiesand servicesprovidedforfamiliesand children,andtheresort undertakestoprovidea personalisedwelcomeandeventsand activitiessuitableforguests ofall agesat greatprices,with improvedawarenessby resortprofessionalsof whatchildrenwant.

Les Houcheswww.leshouches.com

Les Houches and Servoz Tourist Ofce***BP 09 - F-74310 HouchesTel +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 - Fax +33(0)4 50 55 53 [email protected] - www.leshouches.com

>Opening hours

15 June to 15 September:Daily from 8.30am to 12pm and 2.15pm to 6.30pmOther dates: 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pmClosed on Sundays and public holidays

BestoftheAlpsisthebrandsharedbytheverybestholidaydestinationsthroughoutthe Alps.Eachmemberof thisprestigiousgroup meetsthemostdemandingrequirementsofits internationalclientle.Anultra-moderninfrastructure,the unspoiltatmosphereofa mountainvillage,warm, friendlyandtop-qualityserviceandafullrangeofservicesbothsummerandwinterensurethatyou willhave awonderful andunforgettableholiday.

TheBest ofthe Alpsvillagedestinationswishyou acordial welcome!

TOURIST OFFICES

Thisbrand proves conformitywith standard NF X 50-730and the NF237certication rules.

Itguarantees thatthe touristactivitiesand informationand the evaluation and improvementof servicequalityare regularlychecked by AFNOR Certication.

11 rue Francisde Pressens -93571 La Plaine Saint-DenisCedex -France

www.marque-nf.com

Ceslabels concernentlOfce de Tourisme de Chamonix Mont-Blanc

4342

Chamonix Mont-Blancwww.chamonix.com

Chamonix Tourist Ofce****85, place du Triangle de lAmiti - BP 2574400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc CedexTel +33 (0)4 50 53 00 24 - Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 58 [email protected] - www.chamonix.com

>Opening hours

From Mid-April to the end of June:Daily from 9am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pmFrom July to mid-September:Daily non-stop from 9am to 7pm

Argentierewww.argentiere.com

Argentire Tourist Ofce ****24, route du Village - 74400 ArgentireTel +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 - Fax +33 (0)4 50 54 06 [email protected]

>Opening hours

June and September:Monday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to6pm. Closed on SundaysJuly and August:Daily from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 7pm


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CHAMONIX Mont-Blanc Valley

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