A Guide to the Best Activities in Chamonix

Nestled under the impressive Mont Blanc, Chamonix is a year-round playground for both adventurers and tranquillity-seekers. Alongside all your typical ski resort activities, Chamonix is also home to some more ‘unique’ activities that we’ll share with you today.

Step into the Void

Let’s start with the big one… stepping into the void at Aiguille du Midi. This is one of the most impressive and novel activities to do in Chamonix. Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the center of Chamonix and ascend to the dizzying height of 3,842m. There, a glass room awaits, suspended over a 1000m precipice, offering unparalleled views of the French Alps like you’ve never seen before. This activity isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you think you can do it, you should. It’s incredible.

Take Montenvers Train

Next, step back in time on the Montenvers railway line, a historic train that winds through the surrounding alpine forests to reveal the stunning Mer de Glace glacier and ice caves. The sheer scale of this icy marvel is truly spectacular, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit the ice cave, accessible either by footpath or gondola.

Visit Merlet Animal Park

This next activity is for the animal lovers – take a trip to the Merlet Animal Park, perched just above Chamonix. It’s a sanctuary where wildlife roam against a backdrop of stunning mountain views. Encounter indigenous animals like the ibex, chamois, and marmots in their natural habitat — a peaceful retreat for animal lovers of all ages.

Explore Crystal Museum

If you love to learn about the local area, delve into the earth’s treasures at the Crystal Museum. This trove showcases a collection of minerals, primarily from the Mont Blanc massif, and tells a fascinating tale of the valley’s geological heritage.

Have Fun at the Alpine Coaster

As previously mentioned in our Guide to the Best Ski Slopes in Chamonix, if you’re after an adrenaline rush, head straight to the Alpine Coaster. It’s an exhilarating must-try for families looking for a bit of fun. The kids will love zigzagging through the snowy landscape on this luge track.

Embrace the Thrill of Paragliding

Last but not least, it wouldn’t be a unique activities list without Tandem Paragliding making an appearance. Glide through the alpine air with your instructor and indulge in bird’s-eye views of the valleys and peaks. This is an unforgettable way to embrace the vastness and beauty of the Alps.

Additionally, in Chamonix, you can enjoy activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing excursions, hot air balloon rides, helicopter flights, and many more. For those who have booked their luxury holiday chalet with us, our concierge team will be delighted to guide you on the best things to do in Chamonix. While skiing may be the crown jewel of Chamonix’s winter sports, the valley offers many activities that promise to impress even the most seasoned traveller.

If you’re planning a getaway to the French Alps, be sure to check out our selection of luxury holiday chalets in Chamonix.