A high-octane alpine classic where heart-racing moments are all part of the fun, Chamonix remains the ultimate destination for adventurous skiers and hard-and-fast hikers as well as après revellers.
A blue-shuttered chalet with more than a whiff of Wes Anderson about it – from the outside, at least – the 19th-century Hôtel Mont Blanc overlooks its namesake peak in the centre of Chamonix village. Inside, the interiors have had a modernising update, with luxe rooms defined by understated blond wood paneling, a restaurant that serves up sophisticated dishes and a Clarins spa.
Helmed by a Swedish chef who is known for his enticing fusion of French, Swedish and Asian flavours, Le Cap Horn is a spacious, family-friendly restaurant that serves up the best gyoza in the village, sprinkled with a black truffle and chilli crunch topping. PM Chevron leggings, an oversized down-filled vest and Moon Boots will serve you well here.
Don’t leave town without nabbing a burger at Chamonix favourite Poco Loco. Be warned, the portions are monster, but the Beef Poco Loco Burger – a beef patty with Emmental cheese, lettuce, tomato, garlic sauce and fries, ensconced in a homemade focaccia bun – lives long in the memory.
La Folie Douce remains a destination for Chamonix’s young, fun crowd, while if you’re in the mood for music rather than cabaret, Chambre Neuf has live bands, lots of beer and bags of atmosphere. Our preferred spot for debriefing a day of thigh-burning adventure in the company of local ski guides and instructors, however, has to be Elevation 1904, a brasserie-style bar with a generous terrace that’s ideally situated for apéro and people-watching (if you’re wearing your PM Crystal ski suit, prepare for compliments).
What To Pack
