Chamonix is a unique place, not just for cycling. It is seen as the capital of the Alps by many people, located at the foot of Mont Blanc and its accompanying mountains and glaciers. Chamonix is certainly a special place of adventure of many sorts. Chamonix is at 1035m in altitude, relatively low for an alpine ski resort, but its valley sides rise steeply, to 2500m on one side and then to 4803m to the summit of Mont Blanc on the other.
Chamonix is popular for many things, not just riding (see things to do in Chamonix). To read about what non-cyclist can get up to in a week, read our non-cyclist sample itinery. One of the highlights of Chamonix is The Mont Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi cable car. Departing from 1050m at the valley bottom, the Gondola will take you to the top station which is situated at a dramatic 3842m. The station which is only 1000m lower than the summit of The Mont Blanc, offers spectacular views of the Italian and Swiss Alps.
Thank you - Merci
Bicycle - Velo
Coffee with Milk - Cafe au lait
Beer - Bierre
Chamonix is a very cosmopolitan area being on the border of both Switzerland and Italy. It has attracted people from all over the world, not just on holiday, but to live. There are Swedish, Australian, Irish, English, American, Swiss, and Kiwis to name just a few. This international atmosphere has means that it is a vibrant town to be in, and a lot of fun both day and night. The other result of Chamonix's internationalisation is that English is spoken by almost everyone here; but it nice to learn a few words of French too!
Unlike many of the alpine resorts Chamonix is almost as busy in the peak summer months as in the winter. This means that the bars and at least some of the nightclubs are kept open for the summer. The vibrant scene is also fueled by the number of people like you who have come to have some fun in Chamonix.
Our chalet location means that you couldn't really get closer to the action. Our Chamonix chalet has been proved to be crawling distance, but remember it is better to celebrate finishing the Tour du Mont Blanc rather than starting it! So what has Chamonix got to offer then; well it has a good selection of bars, both traditional and more tourist orientated. Our favourites include The Pub, microbrewery and the Jekyl. Late night bars and clubs don't have as extensive opening hours as in the winter but you can still find yourself nursing a pint at 4am if you so choose. But what are we talking about, this is a cycling holiday and you will all be tucked up in bed early every night!
