English version - Chamonix

thE many FacES oF a Giant
SUmmEr 2012
chamonix mont-Blanc vallEy
Servoz
Les Houches
Chamonix
Mont-Blanc
Vallorcine

Is Mont-Blanc really white? Yes, even in the height of summer its
pristine white dome is with you wherever you are in the valley.
But from the explosion of spring flowers to the flaming colours
of the forests in the autumn sun, our valley produces a firework
display of colours, a unique collection of sensations, emotions and
discoveries.
Here, even the silence has a thousand different shades,
interrupted by distant cow bells or cracking glaciers.
Breathtaking scenery, gorgeous hamlets, starry nights and
crystal-clear water… experience summer in its purest form.
4 High altitude
6 Hiking
8 Nature reserves and
untouched countryside
10 13 Top attractions
14 Outdoors / mountain
biking
16 White water,
lakes and rivers
18 Cultural
and built heritage
20 Events
22 A Mecca for trail running
24 Sustainable tourism
26 Gastronomy
and local produce
38 Shopping / nightlife
30 Family holidays
32 35 Mountain lifts
36 38 Directory
39 Diary
40 Practical information
42 Tourist Offices
GET REAdY FOR A SUMMER FUll OF COlOUR
2 3

High altitude
Profile
CHRISTOpHE pROFIT
Mountain guide
Christophe Profit is a Chamonix guide who was one of the
great mountaineering figures of the 1980s.
With no fewer than 10 ascents of the North Face of the Eiger
and some legendary combination climbs under his belt, he
remains one of the great names of solo climbing.
Today enjoying somewhat “tamer“ pursuits, he still believes
that his solo exploits are of great use to him in his profession
as a guide. “They have taught me to judge the commitment I
am making, the notion of limits and safety.
But well before I made those climbs I was obsessed with
becoming a guide, of pursuing this very special profession.“
Today, working as a guide, he gets pleasure out of sharing
the experience.“What is essential is being in the mountains
together, sharing a goal with a partner.
That goal can be a very technical face for an experienced
mountaineer but also an accessible climb for someone who
is new to mountaineering. The main thing is the pleasure it
brings. And what gives me pleasure is knowing that it is often
a special moment for my clients.
And there’s no shortage of options: there are other ways of
“bagging a 4000er“ than climbing Mont-Blanc!“
4
lA CHAMONIARdE dE SECOURS :
lIBERTY, RESpONSABIlITY… ANd SAFETY!
On occasions the boom in mountaineering resulted in some critical situations. In 1957,
two amateur mountaineers Vincendon and Henry died on Mont-Blanc.
The drama led to an increase in the resources and role of La Chamionarde de Secours,
the company set up by the local council after the war.
Today, this organisation is a mountain safety body.
It cooperates actively on an international level with its Italian and Swiss counterparts, doing more
than taking part in rescue operations. Its missions include prevention, running courses and keeping
mountaineers informed in order to bring about improvements in equipment and techniques and remind
everyone that responsibility and prudence are the bedfellows of freedom.
A lONER wITH A lOVE OF SHARING
5

Hiking
Profile
pATRICE lABARBE
Photographer
and mountain leader
Patrice Labarbe, who has been living in the Chamonix Valley
since 1983, has two jobs: he is not only a photographer but
also a mountain leader.
These two approaches help his close relationship with the
valley that he knows inside out to flourish. “A mountain
leader is different to a mountain guide in that he doesn’t
use any mountaineering equipment.
But that doesn’t mean not climbing to high altitude.
Because here, for example, a one-hour walk accessible to
anyone will take you up to a viewpoint over the fabulous
Argentière Glacier.
An opportunity to get close to a rare natural phenomenon…
and enjoy the cool air when there’s a heatwave below.“
Patrice Labarbe is sometimes asked by clients who are
themselves amateur photographers to show them round
his secret garden. “We get out early in the morning or
late in the evening to some magical places, among the
rhododendrons or opposite a sheer mountainside.
You have time to sit and contemplate the world and get
away from the frenetic pace of modern life.
It’s as much a passion as a job!“
And when you see his pictures (some of which illustrate this
brochure) you can see that this philosophy suits him.
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TOUR dU MONT-BlANC :
EIGHT dAYS, THREE COUNTRIES, ONE GREAT ClASSIC
Here’s another way to “bag“ Mont-Blanc…
Walk round it! In 7 to 10 days, this great classic long-distance footpath enables you to get to know
the roof of Europe from every angle.
You’ll experience the charms of the Chamonix Valley’s two “close cousins“, the Val Ferret in Italy
and the Trient Valley in Switzerland. And when your legs are aching after a long day on the trail,
just remember that some of the competitors in the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® complete the same
route in less than 24 hours!
GET AwAY FROM IT All
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Nature reserves and untouched countryside
Spying an eagle, spotting a chamois standing still on a ledge,
coming across an ibex…
You don’t need to travel to the other end of the planet to enjoy
such rare experiences.
Between them, the Chamonix Valley’s three nature reserves
cover an area of 4,400 hectares and offer an unrivalled
opportunity for spotting wildlife.
The Carlaveyron, Aiguilles Rouges and Bérard Reserves cover
altitudes from 1,100 to 3,000 metres.
They are packed with wildlife, and also home to lakes that offer
an additional attraction for hikers.
8
dId YOU SAY A RESERVE?
A nature reserve is “an area of countryside where the conservation of the wildlife, plant life, soil,
water, mineral and fossil deposits and natural environment in general is of particular importance.“
What that means in practice is that any development in a nature reserve is strictly regulated.
It is not closed off to hikers; on the contrary.
But you have to play by the rules. You are not allowed to camp (only wild camping is tolerated
between 7pm and 9am), paraglide over the Aiguilles Rouges (so as not to disturb the birds of prey),
make a fire or take a dog with you, even on a lead.
The wardens are there to ensure the rules are followed, but also to provide information
and help you discover these exceptional places. You can easily find them at the visitor centre
on the Col des Montets.
NATURE IN All ITS GlORY
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Top attractions
THE MONTENVERS TRAIN – MER dE GlACE
Take a ride on the famous little red train to an altitude of 1,913
m at the foot of the Mer de Glace, a living witness of climate
change in the modern age.
Visit the glaciorium and learn all about the life of a glacier and
how it changes over time… Soak up the history of the site, learn
about the first tourists who came to the valley and find out
which celebrities visited this attraction and fell in love with it,
or even found inspiration from it… Experience the passion of the
crystal seekers who look tirelessly for THE unique piece in these
mountains…
You’ll never forget the atmosphere and beauty of this magical
place…
TRAMwAY dU MONT-BlANC
One of the last cog railways, the highest in France, takes you up
to one of the starting points for the ascent of Mont-Blanc, or to
enjoy the amazing and magnificent panorama all the way along
your trip…
10
THE AIGUIllE dU MIdI
Its reputation precedes it… This imposing and magnificent peak towering at 3,842 metres
above the Chamonix Valley is the flagship attraction of this magical place.
It’s a gateway to the high mountains, accessible to everyone but still as wild as it ever was.
In a 20-minute journey ever higher above the valley you reach a height of 3,777 metres to discover
a truly breathtaking view. You can soak up the atmosphere, take deep breaths of mountain air and
store up a host of imaginary exploits…
Take the lift up the final few metres to the summit terrace, a place you will never forget
the beauty of the scenery unfolding around you for 360° is simply incredible…
A must-have experience that makes you realise just how small you are and enjoy
the serene vastness of the mountains!
AdVENTURES AwAIT…
11

Top attractions FEAST YOUR EYES
The scenery is an important part of any show.
We have laid on the best for you, offering you the opportunity to
experience some unforgettable moments with the entire Mont-
Blanc range as the backcloth.
And yet these are places you can get to with all the family, like
the Parc de Merlet where chamois, ibex and marmots play in the
sun.
Le Brévent, an amazing balcony viewpoint over the valley, or La
Flégère, where the mountain lifts will whisk you effortlessly up
to the refreshing Lac Blanc.
Here you don’t have to give your legs a hard time to give your
eyes a treat.
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13

Outdoors / mountain biking
Profile
CéCIlE ET CédRIC RAVANEl
Mountain biking champions
Professional mountain bikers since 1999, Cédric and Céline
Ravanel are a daring duo.
They may have found their heart’s desire in each other, but
mountain biking gets their heart racing too.
And we’re not just talking metaphorically. “On an Olympic trail,“
explains Cédric, “you’re constantly on overdrive, your pulse
racing at an average of 180 beats per minute.“
Their sort of all-out mountain biking is physically demanding.
“On a descent, you have to pull out all the stops and let go.“
But they still like the fact that the mountain biking is accessible
to a huge range of people, and their valley offers everything you
need. “Here, there are singletracks (narrow trails that are great
fun to ride) as well as bike parks and broad tracks for beginners.
There’s something for everyone.
And the icing on the cake? The biking comes with views of
glaciers!“
14
TRY “CHIllEd-OUT“ MOUNTAIN BIKING!
The Chamonix Valley publishes a mountain biking guide with details of around twenty
biking routes for all abilities. For your first foray into mountain biking we suggest you
make the most of the ski lifts that operate in the summer to save your legs.
You can also use the local bus and rail services to exploit the valley’s potential without
necessarily having to ride circular routes. On your bike!
15
MOUNTAIN BIKING wITH A CApITAl “M“

White water, lakes and rivers
Rushing noisily in the mountain torrents, packed with fish
in the rivers, thirst-quenching after a long walk, soothing in
the mountain lakes: the pure water from the glaciers is the
source of a host of activities to fill your summer: rafting,
canyoning, fly fishing or quite simply adding to the scenery.
THE AMAZING dIOSAZ GORGE…
In the Diosaz Gorge, water has carved out a myriad of fascinating
shapes, wearing away the rock to create an impressive landscape
jostling with rushing waterfalls.
Next to the “natural bridge“ is an enormous boulder suspended
between two rock walls: amazing!
16
17
wIld wATER!

Cultural and built heritage AN OpEN-AIR MUSEUM
A VAllEY OF MANY ARCHITECTURAl STYlES
Here, when the curious visitor looks up, there’s more
to see than mountains.
Superb Belle Époque and Art Nouveau façades remind us all that
the mountain tourism industry of the well-to-do of prestige was
born at the foot of Mont-Blanc.
And they rub shoulders with a host of other architectural
curiosities which, from the traditional chalet or the
neoclassical Sardinian building to the chapel, tell the story of
countless migrations, changes of sovereignty and sociological
developments that have left their mark in the streets and
hamlets of the valley. Exploring this extremely varied heritage
is another way of discovering and getting to know the valley.
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19

Events
A VAllEY wITH NEVER A dUll MOMENT
With the Musicaltitude Festival, the traditional Fête des Guides
in Chamonix and the free Servoz en Ébullition Festival, there are
festive goings-on here all summer long!
20
COSMOjAZZ
Cosmo Jazz is a crazy idea: inviting the top jazz artists to play in front of
the world’s most stunning backdrop.
And when the brass blast out in the cool mountain air, the mix is simply magical.
An unmissable celebration of jazz throughout the valley… and a great experience
for those new to jazz thanks to André Manoukian, the brains behind the event.
BlACK SESSION IN FRONT OF MONT-BlANC
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A Mecca for trail running
Portrait
KIlIAN jORNET
Competitive trail runner
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® might seem like a
superhuman challenge strictly for masochists.
But three-time winner Kilian Jornet has a big grin on his face
even when he’s in the thick of the race. He particularly likes
this race. “Mont-Blanc is a mountain unlike any other. It has a
particular feel about it.
As for the UTMB, it’s first and foremost a friendly
get-together of trail runners, a meeting of people
who love the mountains.“
Pleasure is the watchword for this unrivalled athlete, who is
convinced that this type of race is won with the head.
“My driving force is first and foremost my love for the
mountains, taking on the elements.
Here, you adapt to nature, and never the other way round.“
22
A SUMMER OF CHAllENGES…
Alongside the legendary UTMB, the Chamonix Valley offers trail runners a host of
runs and combination races throughout the summer:
the Cross du Mont-Blanc, the Marathon du Mont-Blanc, the Trail des Aiguilles Rouges
and the Chirvathlon, an original team triathlon event around Servoz.
The footpaths that these races use are of course the perfect training ground for
anyone who wants to have a go at trail running while on holiday.
A MECCA FOR TRAIl RUNNING
23

Sustainable tourism
Profile
ETIENNE KlEIN
Physicist at the CEA
(Atomic Energy Commissariat)
Étienne Klein is a scientist well known to the French public,
mainly through his popular-science books about matter and
time.
He lives in Paris but he’s been coming to the Chamonix Valley
regularly for thirty years.
Why do you keep coming back to Chamonix?
“Lots of physicists seem to be attracted to high mountains, I
don’t know why, but it’s a fact. As for me, I first felt this special
attraction, this draw to the mountains at a very young age.
In my opinion there are two types of people, and you can spot
them in the street here.
Some people look straight ahead, and other can’t help but raise
their eyes to the mountains.
I’m one of them.“
A partner of the Chamonix Festival des Sciences for years,
Étienne Klein has often taken part in discussions about
the future of the valley, particularly about sustainable
development. “These events that raise awareness and prompt
popular debate are important, and this valley is active in this
respect.
Sustainable tourism is an important issue here, where there is
an urban area so close to the peaks.
The mountains must remain unspoilt by the fact that they are
difficult to get to. It’s when you’re up there that you realise
just how beautiful and fragile they are.“
24
plAN ClIMAT ENERGIE: THE COMMITMENTS OF AN ICONIC VAllEY
Aware of the environmental issues affecting its outstanding natural heritage, the Chamonix Valley
Community of Communes has adopted the French government’s Plan Climat Energie Territorial (PCET)
energy plan. This scheme aims to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions in the long term.
Rather than unilaterally imposing measures, it has chosen to involve the local players closely
in the process: the associations, businesses, institutions and of course the citizens of the valley have
come together to discuss and draw up a concrete plan of action for the next ten years.
This covers energy saving, managing local industry and new initiatives in the tourist economy.
Environmental education has not been forgotten either, because this will form the basis for a future
long-lasting change in behaviour.
Transport policy lies at the heart of this scheme, with an innovative tram-train project complemented
by a sustainable transport programme. We must do everything we can to ensure that the valley’s
environmental policy is worthy of the unique mountains surrounding it.
25
A SpECIAl ATTRACTION…

Gastronomy and local produce
Fish a hunk of Tomme cheese, some air-cured ham and a
crusty cob loaf out of your rucksack and you’re already
experiencing the valley’s gastronomic reputation.
But don’t stop there! The local produce is about more than
cheese and saucisson. Some top restaurants await you,
and we have no shortage of ways of encouraging you to try
the international produce of Mont-Blanc, from the wines of
Switzerland to the produce of the Aosta Valley.
And those looking for more exotic flavours also have lots of
tasty treats in store in Chamonix’s Indian, Chinese, Mexican,
Japanese and Swedish restaurants.
26
MOUNTAINS wITH A CApITAl “MMMMMM“!
27

Shopping / nightlife
CHAMONIX: THE SHOPPING FACE OF MONT-BLANC
There are lots of good things about living in a town close
to the countryside, and although not large, Chamonix
offers all the benefits of a large town, a stone’s throw
from Mont-Blanc.
Here, there’s no off-season. Both summer and winter
tourists from all over the world throng to shops that
have nothing to envy those in Europe’s great capitals,
in a place at a human scale.
France’s second highest profile city to foreigners after
Paris, Chamonix keeps all its promises to those who don’t
think that the Great Outdoors and shopping have to be
mutually exclusive.
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GREAT OUTdOORS, ANd GREAT SHOppING!
29

Family holidays
SpENdING YOUR HOlIdAY NExT TO A GIANT HElpS YOU GROw BIG ANd STRONG!
Mont-Blanc may be a giant but it is very accessible to
budding mountain explorers, who can take advantage of
a host of easy options for days out that will leave a big
impression…
It’s also a marvellous “childhood memory factory“: the
marmot on the lookout beside its hole, the chamois
careering down a dizzying slope, the mountaineers decked
out in all their gear setting out to take on a legendary
face…
Here, there’s adventure around every corner!
St Bernard farm
30
Walking with donkeys
Horse-drawn cart rides
Summer tobogganing
Climbing school
Paradis des Praz
Water sports centre
Adventure trail
Kids’ mountain biking
31
Family rambles

Mountain lifts
ON HOlIdAY, GO AS YOU
plEASE FOR THE RIGHT
pRICE…
Get the MONT-BLANC MultiPass and use the lifts to
get to everywhere in the Valley whenever you want
without ever having to buy another ticket.
You choose the duration and option (consecutive or
non-consecutive days) and organise your sightseeing
and trips the way you want to, all for a great price.
Avantages
• You pay only once
• Unlimited access to all the attractions
run by Compagnie du Mont-Blanc:
- Aiguille du Midi (not including
the Mont-Blanc Panoramic gondola lift),
- Montenvers – Mer de Glace
- Mont-Blanc Tram – Tramway
du Mont-Blanc
- Grands Montets
- Brévent/Flégère
- Balme area
- Le Prarion gondola lift
- Bellevue cable car
• Free place reservation on the Aiguille
du Midi cable car and on the lift at
the top of the Aiguille du Midi
Informations
Compagnie du Mont-Blanc,
www.compagniedumontblanc.com
Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75
Ipad, Iphone and Android applications
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33
MONT-BLANC MultiPass summer 2012
Consecutive days
Adult
16 years +
Reduced rate
Child (4-15 years)
Family
2 Adults
and 1 Child
1 jour 52,20 € 44,00 € 148,40 €
2 days 65,90 € 56,00 € 187,80 €
3 days 76,10 € 64,00 € 216,20 €
4 days 91,30 € 77,60 € 260,20 €
5 days 101,40 € 86,20 € 289,00 €
6 days 111,60 € 94,90 € 318,10 €
7 days 121,70 € 103,40 € 346,80 €
8 days 131,80 € 112,00 € 375,60 €
9 days 142,00 € 120,70 € 404,70 €
10 days 147,10 € 125,00 € 419,20 €
11 days 152,10 € 129,30 € 433,50 €
12 days 157,20 € 133,60 € 448,00 €
13 days 162,30 € 138,00 € 462,60 €
14 days 167,30 € 142,20 € 476,80 €
15 days 172,40 € 146,50 € 491,30 €
Non-consecutive days
Adult
16 years +
Reduced rate
Child (4-15 years)
Family
2 Adults
and 1 Child
2 days* 76,10 € 56,00 € 208,20 €
3 days* 91,30 € 64,00 € 246,60 €
* To be used over a period of 7 consecutive calendar days
4 days** 101,40 € 77,60 € 280,40 €
5 days** 111,60 € 86,20 € 309,40 €
6 days** 131,80 € 94,90 € 358,50 €
** To be used over a period of 15 consecutive calendar days
10 days*** 162,30 € 125,00 € 449,60 €
15 days*** 213,00 € 146,50 € 572,50 €
Personal and not transferable photo obligatory (***). Use until november 30th 2012
BRING THE FAMILY!
2 adults + 1 paying child = your other children FREE
Compulsory ‘hands-free’ card: €3.00
* ** Photo required for passes valid for 4 non-consecutive days or more and for 10 consecutive days or more.
Document not legally binding.
The information and prices quoted by Compagnie du Mont-Blanc are for information purposes and may be subject to change.
General terms and conditions of sale are available at all ticket offices.

Mountain lifts
• Aiguille du Midi
(3 842 m)
Accessible from Chamonix by
cable car in just 20 minutes,
the viewing terrace and visitor
facilities on the Aiguille
du Midi provide a spectacular
360° view of Mont Blanc and
the French, Swiss and Italian
Alps.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €45.60
Children (4-15 years): €38.50
Family*: €136.90
Opening periods and access to the
Panoramic Mont-Blanc: please contact
us for further information.
THE AMAZING ATTRACTIONS OF CHAMONIx MONT-BlANC VAllEY
Lifts are accessible with the MONT-BLANC Multipass
• Montenvers-Mer
de Glace (1913 m)
The Montenvers cog railway
runs from Chamonix up to
the foot of the famous Mer
de Glace (1,913 m) in 20
minutes, for access to the
grotto cut into the heart of
the glacier every year.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €26.40
Children (4-15 years): €22.30
Family*: €79.10
*Family: 2 adults (parents or grandparents) + 2 children from the same family.
• Tramway du
Mont-Blanc (2380 m)
(Saint Gervais - Le Fayet)
Setting out from Le Fayet,
enjoy an amazing panorama
of the Bionnassay Glacier
on a cog-railway trip to the
threshold of the high mountains.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over), journey up
to the Mont Lachat: €30.40
Children (4-15 years): €25.90
Family*: €91.30
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• Grands Montets
(3275 m)
Starting from Argentière,
the cable car trip to the Plateau
de Lognan (1,972 m) and
on to the Aiguille des Grands
Montets (3,300 m) provides
a magnificent panorama of
the summits of the Mont
Blanc range.
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €27.40
Children (4-15 years): €23.30
Family*: €82.20
• Brévent-Flégère
(2525 m)
Facing due south across to
the Mont Blanc range, Brévent-Flégère
is the starting
point of some accessible
classic long-distance footpaths
that lead to several
mountain lakes.
Brévent:
Return trip: Adults
(16 years and over): €26.40
Children (4-15 years): €22.30
Family*: €79.10
Flégère (L’Index) :
Adults (16 years and over): €14.20
Children (4-15 years): €20.80
Family*: €73.00
• Balme (2270 m)
(Le Tour - Vallorcine)
Access vast Alpine meadows
just a few kilometres from
the Swiss border.
Le Tour - Col de Balme:
Adults (16 years and over): €24.30
Children (4-15 years): €20.80
Family*: €73.00
Vallorcine gondola lift:
Adults (16 years and over): €14.20
Children (4-15 years): €12.20
Family*: €42.60
Mountain lifts in Les Houches
Both lifts are accessible with the MONT-BLANC MultiPass.
• Le Prarion gondola lift
F-74310 Les Houches
Tel : + 33 (0)4 50 54 42 65
Fax : + 33 (0)4 50 54 55 36
www.ski-leshouches.com
info@ski-leshouches.com
Panoramic 8-seater gondolas take you
up in just a few minutes to the Plateau du
Prarion, the starting point of some great
mountain biking and paragliding routes!
Walkers have the opportunity to explore
the Alpine meadows of La Charme,
stock up on cheese and take the forest
road back down to the traditional
chalets in Charousse.
Please note, this lift is one of the first
in France designed and built to
accommodate mobility-impaired
visitors in complete comfort.
• Bellevue cable car
F-74310 Les Houches
Tel : + 33 (0)4 50 54 70 93
www.ski-leshouches.com
info@ski-leshouches.com
For mountaineers, Bellevue is the main
access point to Mont-Blanc.
It’s the starting point of the famous Tour
of Mont-Blanc, a walking route accessible
to everyone which takes 7 to 10 days.
It is also a great way to get up high and
admire a 360° panorama of the Mont-Blanc
range, the Aiguilles de Chamonix and the
Fiz Mountains.
Experienced and beginner mountain bikers
also frequently use this lift and the
playground of energetic biking trails here.
Categories Mountain lift fares for Les Houches, summer 2012
Tickets for Le Prarion and Bellevue lifts Single Return Day pass
Adults from 16 years 11,50 € 14,00 € 16,00 €
Children 4 to 15 years inclusive 9,80 € 11,90 € 13,60 €
Family (2 adults + 2 children from the same family) -
42,00 €
(+€7.00/
additional child)
-
Tickets for Les Houches-Bellevue-Mont-Lachat (with the Tramway du Mont-Blanc) Single Return Day pass
Adults from 16 years 19,10 € 26,70 € -
Children 4 to 15 years inclusive 15,90 € 22,50 € -
Document not legally binding. Prices quoted are for information purposes and may be subject to change.
Special rates and other products: information and sale directly at all ticket offices.
35

Directory
Resort Service provider Mountaineering Kayaking Canyoning Orienteering Rock
climbing
MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONALS
Hydrospeed
Nordic
walking
Paragliding Fishing Rafting Horse riding
Glacier
hiking
Via corda Via ferrata Mountain
biking
Telephone Web
Servoz Odyssée Montagne l +33(0)4 50 91 20 83 www.odyssee-montagne.fr
Les Houches
Chamonix
Adventure Canyoning Escalade
Jean Ladurelle
+33(0)6 10 67 30 02 www.ace-chamonix.com
Cham’Aventure +33(0)4 50 54 50 76 www.cham-aventure.com
Compagnie des Guides
de Chamonix Mont-Blanc
+33(0)4 50 54 50 76 www.chamonix-guides.com
Évolution 2 +33(0)4 50 54 41 02 www.evolution2-chamonix.com
AA haut vol, paragliding, skiing,
mountain activities
Absolute Chamonix, paragliding,
speed riding, high altitude activities
+33(0)6 80 03 24 74
+33(0)6 08 23 92 65 www.absolute-chamonix.com
Ailes du Mont-Blanc +33(0)6 20 46 55 57 www.lesailesdumontblanc.com
Antecimes Summits,
paragliding
Association Internationales
des Guides du Mont-Blanc
+33(0)6 84 01 26 00 www.summits.fr
+33(0)4 50 53 27 05 www.guides-du-montblanc.com
Aventure en tête +33(0)4 50 54 05 11 www.aventureentete.com
Cham’Aventure +33(0)4 50 53 55 70 www.cham-aventure.com
Chamonix Experience +33(0)4 50 54 09 36 www.chamex.com
Chamonix parapente +33(0)6 61 84 61 50 www.chamonix-parapente.fr
Compagnie des Guides de
Chamonix Mont-Blanc +33(0)4 50 53 00 88 www.chamonix-guides.com
Mountain biking school +33(0)6 19 75 69 16
Evolution 2 +33(0) 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com
Oxo Mont Blanc Canyoning +33(0)6 77 88 24 50 www.canyoning-chamonix.com
Peak Experience +33(0)6 20 63 18 52 www.peakexperience.com
Peak Powder +33(0)6 89 06 51 03 www.peakpowder.com
Prestige outdoors specialists +33(0)6 80 20 83 70 www.prestigeoutdoor.com
Stage expéditions +33(0)4 50 55 94 26 www.stageexpe.com
UCPA Cosmique +33(0)4 50 53 12 05 www.ucpa-vacances.com
Argentière UCPA Glaciers +33(0)4 50 54 07 11
Vallorcine Canyon-club du Mont-Blanc +33(0)4 50 54 62 96
www.maisondelamontagne
vallorcine.fr
Chamonix Aventure +33(0)9 77 76 13 62 www.chamonix-aventure.com
Maison des Guides de Vallorcine +33(0)4 50 54 60 69
36
www.maisondelamontagne
vallorcine.fr
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Resort Activities
Telephone Web
Servoz oz Diosaz Gorge Attraction visit +33(0)4 50 47 21 13 www.lesgorgesdeladiosaz.com
Société de pêche et de
protection du milieu aquatique
Lake and river fishing +33(0)6 80 36 70 76
Servoz Tennis Club Tennis +33(0)4 50 47 21 68
Les Houchesches Playgrounds Les Chavants and the lake
Arbre Aventure treetop trail Adventure park +33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com
Bike park Mountain biking +33(0)4 50 54 70 93 www.bikeparkbellevue.com
Indiana Kid Adventure park +33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com
Downhill mountain biking runs Mountain biking +33(0)4 50 54 70 93 www.bikeparkbellevue.com
P’tit kid Adventure park +33(0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com
Société de pêche et de
protection du milieu aquatique
Lake and river fishing +33(0)6 80 36 70 76
Tennis Club Tennis +33(0)4 50 54 43 37 http://tc.leshouches.free.fr
Union de Pétanque du Mont-Blanc Pétanque (boules) +33(0)4 50 54 52 64 http://upmb.leshouches.perso.sfr.fr
Chamonix Playgrounds in Chamonix
Behind Chamonix Town Hall, MJC,
and in the moraine at Argentière
Rock climbing Les Gaillands, La Joux, Pierre d’Orthaz, etc.
Golf Golf +33(0)4 50 53 06 28 www.golfdechamonix.com
Miniature golf Minigolf course +33(0)4 50 55 82 56
Huskydalen Canirando (summer dogsled) +33(0)6 84 99 34 67 www.huskydalen.com
Summer tobogganing Summer tobogganing +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com
Paint ball Paint Ball +33(0)6 07 36 01 51
Parc de loisirs de Chamonix Leisure park +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com
Adventure trail Treetop trail +33(0)6 63 77 78 03 www.chamonixparc.com
Fitness trail Les Gaillands
Fishing Rivers, lakes and mountain torrents
Pétanque (boules) Pétanque (boules) +33(0)4 50 90 80 17
Outdoor swimming pool Pool - Water garden - Water slide +33(0)4 50 53 09 07 www.chamonix.com
Athletics track
Skate park
Tennis Clay and artificial courts + squash +33(0)4 50 53 28 40 www.chamonix.com
Argentière Chamonix Mont Blanc hélicos Panoramic helicopter flights +33(0)4 50 54 13 82 www.chamonix-helico.fr
Mountain biking Downhill, enduro, cross country +33(0)4 50 53 00 24 www.chamonix.com
Vallorcine La Ferme de Vallorcine +33(0)4 50 54 69 42
Marc Van Leynseele Mountain fishing guide +33(0)6 15 11 77 58 www.pecheetrando.com
Downhill mountain biking runs Downhill mountain biking +33(0)4 50 54 60 71 www.vallorcine.com
Société de pêche Sale of fishing permits +33(0)4 50 54 60 71 www.vallorcine.com
Municipal tennis courts Tennis +33(0)4 50 54 60 45 www.vallorcine.fr
37
INDOOR ACTIVITIES
Directory
Resort Activities
Telephone Web
Les Houches Cinebus - Espace Olca Mobile cinema +33(0)4 50 55 50 62 www.leshouches.com
Mont Blanc Escalade Indoor climbing wall +33(0)4 50 54 76 48 www.montblancescalade.com
Chamonix Bowling centre Bowling - Pool - Indoor mini-golf +33(0)4 50 53 74 37
Casino Slot machines - Table games +33(0)4 50 53 07 65
Water sports centre Pool - Sauna - Steam bath - Water garden +33(0)4 50 53 09 07 www.chamonix.com
Cinema 3 screens +33(0)4 50 53 03 39 www.cinemavox-chamonix.com
Climbing wall Rock climbing +33(0)4 50 53 09 07 www.chamonix.com
Skating rink Ice skating - Ice hockey +33(0)4 50 53 12 36 www.chamonix.com
Weight training room, fitness and gym Weight training Fitness Gym +33(0)4 50 53 09 07 www.chamonix.com
Tennis Tennis - Squash +33(0)4 50 53 28 40 www.chamonix.com

CHILDCARE FACILITIES
Resort Activities Telephone Web
ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS
Resort Activities Telephone Web
Les Houches Summer sled trip with huskies Activities with huskies
+33(0)6 84 99 34 67
+33(0)4 50 55 50 62 www.huskydalen.com
Payot goat farm Visit and farm snacks +33(0)6 87 41 71 57 www.lafermeapayot.com
38
MUSEUMS AND LIBRARIES
Directory Annuaire
Servoz Rose bonbon Ages 2 months / 4 yrs +33(0)6 32 01 93 17 mcrosebonbon@orange.fr
Les Houches Club enfants touristique Ages 18 months / 10 yrs +33(0)6 86 32 56 42 enfancejeunesse@leshouches.fr
Day nursery Ages 3 months / 3 yrs +33(0)4 50 54 48 19 creche@leshouches.com
Events org. and leisure centre Ages 3 years / 18 yrs +33(0)4 50 54 43 02 enfancejeunesse@leshouches.fr
Chamonix CAP Loisirs Minimum age 3 yrs +33(0)4 50 53 12 24 www.mjchamonix.org
Cham Aventure Sports sessions for ages 3 to 17 +33(0)4 50 53 55 70 www.cham-aventure.com
Evo2 Multi-activities for ages 6 to 14 +33(0)4 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com
Paradis des Praz Refreshments, games, ponies, etc. +33(0)6 61 73 23 00
Chamonix Leisure Park Summer tobogganing, games, etc. +33(0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com
Parcours Aventure Chamonix Adventure trail min. age 3 +33(0)6 63 77 78 03 www.parcoursaventurechamonix.com
Vallorcine Leisure centre Ages 3-11 yrs +33(0)4 50 53 12 24 www.mjcchamonix.org
Saint Bernard farm Visit of the breeding kennels +33(0)4 50 47 23 60 paysdumontblanc.chiens-de-france.com
La Compagnie des Ânes Walks with a donkey +33(0)4 50 47 26 18
Merlet Wildlife Park See the Alpine wildlife +33(0)4 50 53 47 89 www.parcdemerlet.com
Horse riding Horse rides +33(0)6 13 08 33 58 www.skijoeringmontblanc.com
Vallorcine Evasion Nordique cani rando Summer sledding with huskies +33(0)6 82 09 50 03 www.evasion-nordique.com
Val’horse inn Pony rides +33(0)6 82 11 53 21
Resort Activities
Telephone Web
Servoz Servoz library +33(0)4 50 47 28 75 biblioservoz@wanadoo.fr
Maison de l’Alpage +33(0)6 70 61 07 18 maison-alpage@ccvallede
chamonixmb.fr
Guided heritage tours +33(0)4 50 47 21 68 www.servoz.com
Les Houches Les Houches library +33(0)4 50 54 39 83 bibliotheque@leshouches.fr
Chamonix
Chamonix
les Pélerins
Chamonix
Museum of Mountain and Rural Life +33(0)4 50 54 54 74 musee@leshouches.fr
Guided heritage tours +33(0)4 50 55 50 62 www.leshouches.com
Library of the ‘Amis du vieux
Chamonix’ association +33(0)4 50 55 94 67 www.amis-vieux-chamonix.org
Library/games library +33(0)4 50 53 34 82
Library +33(0)4 50 55 92 97
Cloches Artisanales
Devouassoud
Espace Tairraz -
Mountaineering Centre
Hand-made bells +33(0)4 50 53 04 88 www.sonnettesdevouassoud.com
Exhibition of crystals and interactive
exhibition about mountaineering +33(0)4 50 55 53 93
Alpine Museum +33(0)4 50 53 25 93
Musée Wibault Exhibition of paintings +33(0)4 50 53 04 35 www.wibault.org
Little sightseeing train +33(0)4 50 53 11 24 www.traincham.com
Guided heritage tours Guided tours of Chamonix +33(0)4 50 53 00 24
Argentière Library +33(0)4 50 54 03 06
Vallorcine Vallorcine library +33(0)4 50 34 44 08 culture-biblio.vallorcine@orange.fr
Visitor centre for the Aiguilles
Rouges Nature Reserve
Musée vallorcin
La Maison de Barberine
Espace Tairraz
+33(0)4 50 54 02 24 www.rnaiguillesrouges.org
+33(0)4 50 54 63 19 http://maisonbarberine.over-blog.
com/
Accommodation
For details of accommodation availability
in Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley log on to
the tourist office websites.
Brochures are also available on request
from the 4 tourist offices.
• Servoz/Les Houches
www.servoz.com
www.leshouches.com
• Chamonix Mont-Blanc
www.chamonix.com
• Vallorcine
www.vallorcine.com
• Argentière
www.chamonix.com
Business tourism
• Salle municipale Jean Morel - Servoz
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 47 21 51
• Espace Olca - Les Houches
Tél : +33 (0) 4 50 55 50 62
olca@leshouches.com
• Bureau des congrès - Chamonix
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 75 50
www.congres-chamonix.com
• Cinéma Vox - Chamonix
Meeting rooms
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 55 89 98
EVENTS DIARY
Thursday 31 May to Saturday 2 June
2nd Mont-Blanc Versant Durable Festival,
Chamonix
Friday 29 June
KM VERTICAL à Chamonix
Friday 29 June to Sunday 1 July
Mont-Blanc cross-country race
and marathon, Chamonix
Thursday 12 and Friday 13 July
Climbing World Cup and climbing Festival,
Chamonix
Friday 13 July – Bastille Day celebrations
- Fête Nationale and fireworks, Chamonix
- Concert and Fête Nationale with the Les
Houches municipal wind band, Servoz
Saturday 14 July
Bastille Day celebrations
- Fête Nationale and ceremony,
Chamonix; firework display, Argentière
- Refreshments, firework display and
Dance at the Lac des Chavants,
Les Houches
39
Saturday 14 July
Vallorcine: concert by Echo du Buet
in Place de la Gare, dance
and firework display
Tuesday 17 July
Concert, Baroque festival, Vallorcine
Church
Thursday 19 and Friday 20 July
Servoz en Ébullition
Music, meal and film showing, Servoz
Monday 23 July to Saturday 4 August
Festival Rencontres et Nature,
Les Houches & Servoz - 16th Festival
Wednesday 24 to Sunday 29 July
Cosmojazz Festival, Chamonix Valley
Thursday 2 August
Piano concert with Véronique Thual Chauvel,
Vallorcine Church
Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 August
45th minerals fair, Chamonix
Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 August
Musicaltitude Festival, Chamonix
Friday 10 to Sunday 12 August
Mountain Film Festival, Chamonix
Sunday 12 to Wednesday 15 August
Fête des Guides, Chamonix
Wednesday 15 August
Village fête and festival of artisan
traditions, Vallorcine
Wednesday 15 August
Craft market, Servoz.
Monday 27 August
to Sunday 2 September
The North Face ® Ultra-Trail
du Mont-Blanc ® , Chamonix Valley
15 and 16 September
European Heritage Open Days
Chamonix Valley
Sunday 30 September
Trail des Aiguilles Rouges
Sunday 7 October
Chirvathlon: running, road cycling and
mountain biking race, Servoz
Sunday 14 October
Sheep Fair, Servoz

Practical information Practical information
GETTING HERE LOCAL TRAVEL
Road
•Road travel information
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 05 51
•Via France
Accessed directly via the Autoroute Blanche (A40),
which connects to the European motorway network.
•Via Switzerland
Motorway to Martigny, Col de la Forclaz,
Col des Montets.
•Via Italy
15 km from the border via the Mont-Blanc Tunnel.
Lyon
Londres
Paris
Genève
Annecy
Rail
SNCF railway stations in the resorts
St Gervais - Le Fayet / Vallorcine / Martigny (CH) line.
TGV Connections: Annecy, Bellegarde, Genève, Lausanne
SNCF information:
www.ter-sncf.com
www.voyages-sncf.com
Vallorcine
Servoz
Les Houches
Lausanne
SUISSE
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Mont-Blanc
4810m
ITALIE
Milan
Air
•Geneva International Airport
(88 km)
Tel +41 (0) 22 717 71 11
•Lyon - Saint Exupéry International Airport
(220 km)
Tel +33 (0)8 26 800 826
•Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport
(Annecy - 90 km)
Tel +33 (0)4 50 27 30 06
Coach services
& airport transfers
Daily connections with Geneva and Italy.
•SAT
Tel/Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15
www.sat-montblanc.com
Alternatives to the car:
unlimited use of rail and bus
services throughout the Valley
Mont-Blanc Express Train
• The SNCF line serves all the villages from Saint Gervais
/ Le Fayet to Martigny (Switzerland), via Servoz,
Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine.
• Travel on the SNCF line from Servoz to Vallorcine is
free and unlimited to holders of a Carte d’Hôte guest
card provided by your accommodation provider on
arrival.
Trains run approximately every hour.
Information: at SNCF railway stations
Or on the websites:
www.ter-sncf.com
www.voyages-sncf.com
Bus / Shuttle services
Scheduled urban transport services throughout the
valley (free between Servoz and Le Tour to holders of
a Carte d’Hôte guest card provided by your accommodation
provider on arrival).
Chamonix Bus
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 05 55
Fax +33 (0)4 50 55 95 59
chamonixbus@transdev.eu
www.chamonix-bus.com
CAR PARKS / TAXIS
PRIVATE TRANSPORT
Car parks in Chamonix
4,000 parking spaces.
3 covered car parks: Chamonix sud,
Saint Michel and Place du Mont-Blanc.
Parking for up to 1 hour: free.
Free ‘Les Mulets’ shuttle service around the town
centre.
Chamonix Parc Auto
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 65 71
Car parks in Les Houches
Le Tourchet: 60 spaces
Village centre: 80 spaces
Les Chavants: 200 spaces
Taxis, private transport
A list of taxi firms and private transport operators is
available on request from the tourist offices.
WEATHER / SAFETY
Météo France
7-day forecast updated 3 times a day
+33 (0)8 99 71 02 74
cdm74@meteo.fr
www.meteo.fr
Weather bulletins posted at the Maison
de la Montagne and Tourist Office.
Météo Chamonix
5-day forecast
www.chamonix.com
Pôle montagne risk
Mountain weather information and safety display.
Free admission..
Maison de la Montagne
Open Monday to Saturday from
9am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm.
polemontagnerisk@chamoniarde.com
Office de Haute-Montagne
A central point providing comprehensive information
on conditions and safety in the mountains.
Maison de la Montagne
Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm
and 3pm to 6pm.
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 22 08
www.ohm-chamonix.com
ohm-info@chamonix.com
40 41
EMERGENCY NUMBERS / USEFUL NUMBERS
Fire service 18
SAMU (medical emergencies) 15
•International emergency number
from a mobile phone: 112
•Ambulances
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 46 20
•Chamonix Hospital
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 84 00
509, route des pélerins - Chamonix
•Sallanches Hospital
Tel +33 (0)4 50 47 30 30
380, rue de l’hôpital - Sallanches
(has a haemodialysis centre)
•Medical analysis laboratory
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 07 25
32, rue Helbronner - Chamonix
•P.G.H.M (mountain rescue)
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 16 89
69, route de la Mollard - Chamonix
Overnight, Sunday and public
holiday service
•Out-of-hours doctor and pharmacy
15
•Out-of-hours dentist
Tel +33 (0)4 50 66 14 12
There are general practice surgeries in Servoz,
Les Houches, Chamonix and Argentière, plus many
specialists: paediatrics, cardiology, dermatology,
ophthalmology, etc.
Full list available on request from
the Tourist Offices.
Document not legally binding – Prices are for information
purposes and in euros.Photograph & illustration rights:
Bozon J-Chappaz S-Poirot JCH-Labarbe P-Dalmasso M-Cie du Mont Blanc-
Colonel M-Esope-Cosmojazz-Music Altitude-Club des Sports Chamonix-UTMB-Goy
B-Hotel Albert 1 er -Parc de Loisirs des Planards-Golf Club Chamonix-Espace Tairraz-Cie
des Guides-Ravanel D-Herbke S-Office de Tourisme Les Houches & Servoz
sunt-fotolia.com
Translation: La Rose des Vents
Design/Production: Publicis Activ Annecy +33 (0)4 50 52 64 94
Manufactured by Beecom Direct
“Imprim’vert“-certified printing

Tourist offices
Servoz
www.servoz.com
Les Houches and Servoz Tourist Office***
Le bouchet - F-74310 Servoz
Tel +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68
info@servoz.com - www.servoz.com
>Opening hours
July and August: Monday to Saturday from 9am to
12pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Other dates: 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm
Closed on Sundays and public holidays
Holiday planner
Prepare your holiday in Servoz and Les Houches the easy way
with the new online tool available on our websites.
Tell us what you’re looking for and what you want to do and we’ll
provide you with various suggestions and all the information you
need to personalise your holiday. You can go back to and change
your selections at any time. Create your “holiday planner” at
www.servoz.com or wwww.leshouches.com
Les Houches
www.leshouches.com
Les Houches and Servoz Tourist Office***
BP 09 - F-74310 Houches
Tel +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 - Fax +33(0)4 50 55 53 16
info@leshouches.com - www.leshouches.com
>Opening hours
15 June to 15 September:
Daily from 8.30am to 12pm and 2.15pm to 6.30pm
Other dates: 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm
Closed on Sundays and public holidays
“Famille Plus Montagne” label:
The resort of Les Houches is one of the French resorts awarded
the “Famille Plus Montagne” label.
This label is granted in recognition of the facilities and services
provided for families and children, and the resort undertakes
to provide a personalised welcome and events and activities
suitable for guests of all ages at great prices, with improved
awareness by resort professionals of what children want.
42
Vallorcine
www.vallorcine.com
Vallorcine Tourist Office**
Le Betté - F-74660 Vallorcine
Tel +33 (0)4 50 54 60 71
Fax : +33(0)4 50 54 61 73
info@vallorcine.com - www.vallorcine.com
>Opening hours
July and August:
Daily from 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Other periods: 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm
Closed on Sundays, Wednesdays and public holidays
“Notre Village Terre d’Avenir” label:
This label, awarded by the Association Nationale Notre
Village Terre d’Avenir (recognised by the French Ministry
of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and the Sea
as an expert body in the implementation of the Agendas
21 by rural local authorities), enables a local Agenda
21 programme of environmental, economic and social
initiatives to be pursued.
Chamonix Mont-Blanc
www.chamonix.com
Chamonix Tourist Office****
85, place du Triangle de l’Amitié - BP 25
74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Cedex
Tel +33 (0)4 50 53 00 24 - Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 58 90
info@chamonix.com - www.chamonix.com
>Opening hours
From Mid-April to the end of June:
Daily from 9am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pm
From July to mid-September:
Daily non-stop from 9am to 7pm
Argentiere
www.argentiere.com
Argentière Tourist Office ****
24, route du Village - 74400 Argentière
Tel +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 - Fax +33 (0)4 50 54 06 39
argentiere.info@chamonix.com
>Opening hours
June and September:
Monday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to
6pm. Closed on Sundays
July and August:
Daily from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 7pm
43
“Best of the Alps” is the brand shared by the very best
holiday destinations throughout the Alps.
Each member of this prestigious group meets the most
demanding requirements of its international clientèle.
An ultra-modern infrastructure, the unspoilt atmosphere
of a mountain village, warm, friendly and top-quality service
and a full range of services both summer and winter ensure
that you will have a wonderful and unforgettable holiday.
The “Best of the Alps” village destinations
wish you a cordial welcome!
TOURIST OFFICES
This brand proves conformity with standard NF X 50-730
and the NF237 certification rules.
It guarantees that the tourist activities and information
and the evaluation and improvement of service
quality are regularly checked by AFNOR Certification.
11 rue Francis de Pressensé - 93571 La Plaine Saint-Denis
Cedex - France
www.marque-nf.com
Ces labels concernent l’Office de Tourisme de Chamonix Mont-Blanc

“ExpEriEncE wintEr in
thE chamonix mont-Blanc vallEy“