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There is perhaps no other type of holiday that epitomises luxury and adventure quite as much as skiing. For decadence it is right up there with the likes of a 5-star cruise or a break on a tropical Caribbean island, but for sheer adrenalin-rushing fun, there is probably nothing quite as readily available and popular. Of all the places to ski, Europe’s many resorts have taken the crown as the most prestigious, and amongst these lies Chamonix. Set high up at a grand alpine altitude, Chamonix sits at the base of the mighty Mont Blanc and is considered by many to be not only the most luxurious resort in Europe, but also one of the most challenging.
Chamonix’s reputation is known through the skiing and snowboarding community and beyond, especially when it comes to finding some of the best off-piste conditions and runs of anywhere in Europe, but there are more reasons than one that so many experienced skiers choose this resort over the fierce competition. Après ski has taken off in recent years and formed it’s own subculture within the skiing community, not to mention fashion styles, and this is another area in which Chamonix excels. From the trendy hipsters to the laidback party goers, this resort is deservedly renowned for its welcoming social scene, crammed with après ski bars and parties around the clock.
But of course there’s nothing that clears the head the next morning better than getting the chairlift up to the top of the piste. Chamonix’s long history as an outdoors hub has seen it mature from a mountaineering hotspot, which still attracts the world’s top climbers and outdoor adventurers, to a world-class ski resort, and this is the real reason anyone books a holiday here. Split into five distinct ski areas, which are well spread out so as to mean you could easily spend an entire holiday skiing on only new slopes, Chamonix really does have conditions for every level of skier. Between Grands Montets, Le Tour, L’Agiguille du Midid, Brevent and Flegere, there is barely a spot of snow that stays untouched for long, especially during high-season, and getting off-piste can certainly be a good idea for the more experienced skiers. The famous Valle Blanche, a twelve mile off-piste run which cuts through some particularly long and challenging powder, is a must for anyone wanting to put their skills to the test.
Getting to Chamonix is surprisingly simple too, especially considering how vast and awe-inspiring the vista is once you’re there. It is easiest to navigate to from Geneva, which is only about 50 miles from the resort with many direct buses making the journey. Likewise, the French rail network makes getting to Chamonix from Paris relatively straightforward too, especially if you hop on a high-speed train from Paris to Lyon first. There are many top hotels to stay in whilst indulging in some Chamonix skiing but, be warned, as France’s top winter holiday destination, holiday makers are always advised to book early before the crowds get there.
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