Chamonix
The town of Chamonix lies in one of
the most spectacular valleys of the French Alps. Reminiscent of the
Himalayas, the area is dominated by deeply crevassed glaciers and the
cloud-diademed peak of Mont Blanc.
Not to be missed is the Aigulle du
Midi, a solitary spire of rock several kilometres from the summit of
Mont Blanc which stretches across glaciers and snow fields. Easily
accessible, the views from the top are postcard-perfect. A further
treat is a trans-glacial ride on the world's highest téléphérique
(cable car), which stops en route at skiing and hiking destinations.
The Mer de Glace is the second-largest glacier in the Alps.
 It measures
14km (9 mi) long, 1800m (5900ft) wide and is up to 400m (1315ft) deep.
For a better look at the glacier from the inside, you can tour an ice
cave that is carved anew each spring. There is also a train that
ascends to an altitude of 1915m (6275ft) and a number of uphill
trails, but traversing the glacier is dangerous and should not be done
without proper equipment and a guide.
Mont Blanc
1035m-3842
Classified as a world heritage site, this historic alpine capital of
France,
surrounded by spectacular scenery at the foot of Mont Blanc on
the Italian border, offers one of the most challenging ski areas in
the world. The spectacular Vallee Blanche ski run with a descent of
2800m requires a guide but is a must for any keen skier. Best for good
intermediates, advanced skiers and a magnet for snowboarders, this is
also a good resort for non-skiers and for lively apres-ski. The full
Mont Blanc pass covers 14 resorts, including Argentiere and Les
Houches, both nearby. A cheaper Cham Ski less extensive ski pass is
also available,covering 152 km of pistes.
Beginners*
Intermediate**
Advanced*** Snowboarders***
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here for the latest Chamonix weather
Ski Facts:
762 km with 287 pistes: 36 black, 118 red, 81 blue,
52 green, snowpark, 45km cross country.
Lift Pass:
Mont Blanc 6 days adult €205, child 4-11yrs
€164.
Ski School:
6 half days group lessons adult €140, child
€90. ESF tel 0033 450 53 22 57. www.esf-chamonix.com
Non-skiing:
skating rinks, swimming pool, fitness centre,
tennis, squash, wall climbing, ice waterfalls, snowshoeing, discos,
cinemas, paragliding, casino, good shops, many restaurants & bars.
Children:
Panada Club & Jardin d’Enfants tel 0033 450 55
86 12 from
10mths-6yrs.
Travel:
By car: Calais 560 miles. By rail: Chamonix 0 miles. By
air: Geneva 1½ hrs.
Nightlife: The
Office
;
Wild
Wallabies
; The
Garage
NOTE: Prices are approximate and are to be used as a guide only. Travel distances are approximate and travel times are subject to road conditions.
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