Discover the breathtaking Chamonix, France

by lindamura review

► added on 4th of September, 2007

Chamonix, this beautiful alpine town and skiing resort is one of the most visited natural sites in the world. It has so much to offer that it is not seen just as a skiing resort. People come here for the outstanding high mountain scenery, exceptional viewpoints which take your breath away, to visit the traditional villages and hamlets and of course for sports. The sports events organized here is a magnet for both tourists and sports lovers. One event that attracts the most people is the famous Kandahar World Cup held at the end of January. This is when you can see the world's best downhill skiers compete.

The uniqueness of the place is given not only by the beauty of the mountains but also by the historical and cultural heritage of Chamonix that gives the place a quaint charm different from other mountain resorts and towns. The locals’ devotion and love for the place can be seen and visiting the place you tend to adopt the views and their attachment to this lovely place.

Reaching the ski areas in Chamonix is quite easy as there are different possibilities you can consider: shuttle bus, train or ca. Then there’s The Aiguille du Midi cable car and the Mer de Glace train can take you to this winter wonderland, but you can also get to exceptional viewpoints by taking one of the hiking trails accessible to all so you can get to beautiful sights the easy way or the hard way. From the top of the Aiguille du Midi you can get to the Panoramic Mont-Blanc gondola that takes you to the « glacier du Géant » over to the Point Helbronner in Italy and you’ll see the Aosta valley and the whole of the Piedmont. The 360° views over the French, Swiss and Italian Alps are a sight difficult to forget.

When you say Chamonix you think of more than just skiing, you think of a land of legends and a unique natural environment, a lively alpine town that can surpassing all expectations. Everything catches your attention starting with the Mont Blanc Massif that inspires caution and respect and continuing with the different architectural styles you notice when you first arrive in town. This pleasant sight is like a warm welcome that will prepare you for other nice surprises. Tourism is well developed in the area but it is definitely not intrusive and you won’t have the feeling that you are in a dolled up place. The traditional farmhouses, villas, chalets, old baroque churches and protestant chapels blend beautifully with modern constructions.

Tourism also brought diversity to the place and there’s a lot to visit and do in Chamonix in both winter and summer. Sports activities are number one here followed by wide choice of cultural, entertainment and relaxation possibilities. Among the winter activities we can mention: skiing, snowshoeing, paragliding, hiking, ice climbing or you could even try your hand at dog sled driving. You can try any of there outdoor sports and there are people to help you practice them in case you are a novice. Marked hiking trails help those who want to visit the area. If you’d rather stay indoors for a while the excellent sports complex is the ideal option. It is a huge facility offering different types of activities to suite every taste. You can keep moving if you want to keep fit and go skating, wall climbing, swim and play tennis or squash. The spa facilities are an excellent place to relax and unwind while the cultural and entertainment facilities keep your soul young. You can visit an exhibition, an alpine museum; go to a concert, watch a film, or an ice-hockey match, eat in style at one of the traditional and gourmet restaurants, and last but not least, the ladies favorite time spending activity: shopping. There are excellent shopping facilities and attractive boutiques. When the night comes Chamonix offers lively evening entertainment to make your day complete.

Chamonix is a year round destination, summer offering the Earth and Science Festival, the « Musical Weeks », the traditional « Mountain Guides Festival » and sights to remember.

Chamonix can’t be but a destination that delivers an experience beyond imagination!