LITMIR.BIZ

      The Chamonix Valley seen from the Cosmiques Arête (Alpine Mountaineering, Route 1)

      Chamonix, the place of dreams, the home of huge glaciated mountains, including western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc; the playground of serious mountaineers … in summer alpinists frequent the sheer rocky faces and steep icy couloirs, in winter extreme skiers launch themselves down audacious slopes and aspirant North Face climbers tackle the cold dark ice faces.

      There is another Chamonix, one that offers a plethora of different mountain activities for those who are searching for a mountain holiday not confined to one sport. There are walks both on and off glaciers for all levels; easily accessed climbs for beginners as well as experts; bike rides both on and off road for those just learning how to pedal as well as those looking for daredevil jumps and long hard ascents; miles of trails perfect for runners; and, if you know where to look, there are some very adventurous walks and via ferrata which venture onto terrain normally off limits for non-climbers. Add to this a practical and reliable infrastructure of public transport and lift systems, which make Chamonix an easily accessible and user-friendly resort. Put succinctly, Chamonix is a playground for anyone looking for adventure in whatever form, against one of the most splendid and inspiring mountain backdrops you could dream of.

      This guide aims to open up this world of multi-activity to anyone who wants to explore it. Classic hikes and challenging adventurous expeditions are described, along with walks that will suit all the family, from dog to granny. Regular valley mountain bike routes are included here as well as the very latest in dedicated descents using cable cars and the fabulously spectacular ‘Dirt Zones’ and bike parks – strictly for those under 30 with shock-absorbing bodies as well as bikes. The most popular and accessible rock-climbing venues are also briefly outlined, with some of the favourite moderate routes described as well as the increasingly popular bouldering sites.