winter - Chamonix
Transcription
winter - Chamonix
WINTER 2013-2014 S E R V OZ - LE S H O U C H E S - C HAM O N IX-M O NT-B LAN C - VALLO R C I N E CONTENTS 4-5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22-23 24-25 26-27 MONUMENTAL VISTAS FAMILY FUN LEARNING TO SKI CROSS-BORDER ADVENTURE BACKCOUNTRY EXHILARATION EXCITEMENT FOR ALL WINTER WONDERLAND ALPINE VITALITY IMMENSE SENSATIONS ONE VALLEY, FOUR RESORTS LIFE AT ITS FULLEST SNOW-FILLED SOUVENIRS LIVING HISTORY 28-29 UNLIMITED MONT-BLANC PASS 30-31 OTHER PASSES 32-34 MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONALS DIRECTORY 35 CHILDCARE, ATTRACTIONS, LODGING, BUSINESS TOURISM 36 GETTING HERE, PARKING 37 LOCAL TRANSPORT 38 WEATHER AND SAFETY 39 EVENTS, EXHIBITS TAKE THE BREAK YOU DESERVE THIS WINTER. Where everything is at your fingertips beneath the immeasurable beauty of the Mont Blanc. Get a rush on backcountry slopes or spend the day skiing with your family. On cross-country trails or snowshoe hikes. On snow, ice or in the sky. In a small, bustling street or at the heart of the wilderness. Around the table with good food and friends, or strolling through a museum. This year, take the break you deserve within one of the most picturesque corners of the world. Between Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Vallorcine lies an entire valley at your feet, and a thousand peaks to inspire you. Welcome to the spectacular Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley. 40-41 TOURIST OFFICES 2 3 The sun and the landscape fuse together magnificently on the slopes of the Brévent-Flégère resort. Facing due south, it provides an incomparable view of the Mont Blanc massif. The opposite side of the range provides another spectacular impression: a panoramic view through the world-renowned slopes of the Grand Montets to the Argentière Glacier and the Chamonix Valley. Brévent-Flégère: 4 green, 13 blue, 7 red, and 7 black slopes plus 1 freestyle park. Try it out: film your plunge into the Big AirBag in Brévent or fly down the timed speed skiing slope in Flégère. Les Grands Montets: 5 blue, 4 red and 6 black slopes. Try it out: the snow and boardercross parks. MONUMENTAL VISTAS BRÉVENT FLÉGÈRE LES GRANDS MONTETS 4 5 FAMILY FUN LES HOUCHES Enjoy skiing with the kids on the gradual inclines of the Balme and the slopes in Brévent-Flégère. Or experience ski as never before in the wooded Les Houches resort. BALME Balme: 11 blue and 8 red slopes, plus 1 freestyle park. Try it out: your slalom run timed and filmed in the stadium. Les Houches: 2 green, 6 blue, 12 red and 2 black slopes, including the famous Kandahar World Cup slope. Try it out: The snowpark and sledging areas. Brévent-Flégère: See page 5. BALME LES HOUCHES 6 7 LEARNING TO SKI Young or old, beginner skiers will make the most of their exclusive areas: at least 7 locations in the valley are reserved for novices. Beginner slopes: The Tourchet and the prarion in Les Houches, the planards and the Savoy in Chamonix, the Chosalets in Argentière, the Vormaine in Le Tour and the poya in Vallorcine. See details on page 31. 8 9 CROSS-BORDER ADVENTURE VERBIER All the way to Courmayeur, Italy and Verbier, Switzerland, ski across borders following the outskirts of the Mont Blanc. Courmayeur: Accessible with a MONT-BLANC 1-21 Day Unlimited Pass. Daily shuttles from Chamonix available for a fee. Verbier: Accessible with a MONT-BLANC 6-21 Day Unlimited Pass. Weekly shuttle available on Thursdays from Chamonix for a fee. See details on page 28-29. COURMAYEUR VERBIER COURMAYEUR 10 11 BACKCOUNTRY EXHILARATION THE SUMMIT OF THE GRANDS MONTETS BRÉVENT, VIEW OF THE MONT BLANC MASSIF FLÉGÈRE, OVERLOOKING THE MER DE GLACE GLACIER Welcome to paradise. Freeriders will find the Chamonix Valley, its dazzling surroundings and breath-taking slopes out of this world. Among the most fantastic sites is the Vallée Blanche: 22 km of snow, ice and immensity from the Aiguille du Midi down to Chamonix. An unforgettable journey that is none other than the longest backcountry slope in Europe. Follow our mountain guides The descent through the Vallée Blanche is a high-mountain journey on a glacier following an unsecured and unmarked course. Discovering (or rediscovering) this passageway strictly calls for the presence of a mountain guide. The Grands Montets Ski Area - The Summit (3,275 m) Discover the high-mountain, glacial ski area of the Grands Montets and its ungroomed slopes for expert skiers at the foot of the seracs and the great north faces of the Alps. Not to mention the unbeatable view of Argentière and its surroundings, plus a remarkable amount of excellent snow through the end of the season. VALLÉE BLANCHE – THE ROGNON SLOPES VALLÉE BLANCHE – PASSAGE THROUGH THE SERACS 12 13 EXCITEMENT FOR ALL! WINTER WONDERLAND! You’ll find all kinds of snow sports on the Valley’s slopes. There is snowboarding and ski touring, of course, but you’ll also discover Telemark skiing, skijoring, speed flying, and snowkiting. For all levels and tastes, you’ll find what you’re looking for. For anyone and everyone For people with disabilities: dualski, uniski, sitski, or kartski are available For non-skiers: taxiskis on the slopes of Chamonix and Les Houches (subject to availability). For more information, get in touch with the Valley’s ski schools (contact info on page 32) At the foot of the Mont Blanc or at 1,800 metres high, ski the Valley the way you want! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert cross-country skier, you’ll be able to find the loop of your dreams among the quiet hamlets and pine forests. Les Houches: 10 km of trails in Les Chavants, and higher up at the Prarion summit is a groomed, but untracked, trail (open according to weather conditions). Chamonix-Argentière: 35 km of trails Vallorcine: 8 km of trails along the Eau Noire River CHAMONIX-ARGENTIÈRE 1 weekly pass purchased = 1 free entry to pool or skating rink, to be used during your stay* 1 daily pass purchased = 1 free entry to pool or skating rink on the same day* * Skate rental included. See details at Tourist Information Offices. 14 15 ALPINE VITALITY During the winter in the Chamonix Valley, a mountain of alpine activities is available to you. Maybe you’re in quest of mountaineering and ice-climbing excitement? Or trying your hand with snowshoes, a luge or a traditional paret sledge? How about a spin on the ice rink or a dog sledge? Call in a pro Whatever you’re looking to do in the Valley, we have a team of professionals to make it more enjoyable. High- and mid-range mountain guides, ski instructors, paragliding instructors, and many more professionals are here to share their enthusiasm. See the Mountain Professional Directory on pages 32-34. 16 17 IMMENSE SENSATIONS The French have a saying, “en prendre plein les yeux”, when talking about being visually astounded. Come and discover this astonishment within the landscape of the Chamonix Valley: on one side, you can gaze upon the Mer de Glace glacier and its rack-and-pinion train. On the other side loom the Aiguille du Midi and its aerial tram ascending to the peaks. Montenvers Trains and the Mer de Glace Glacier (1,913 m): Leaving from Chamonix, a 20-minute train ride brings you to the foot of the largest glacier in France. Take in the exceptional views of the famous Drus and Grandes Jorasses summits. From this point, you can walk into the core of the glacier and visit its natural cave. A world of discovery then awaits you at the Glaciorium, an interactive museum devoted to glaciology. Afterward, dive into the past with a visit to the Temple of Nature and its “optical theatre”, participating in interviews with famous 19th-century artists and scientists who adored this site. You can also visit the colourfully lit Ice Cave to discover the fabulous history of crystals in the massif. To top it all off, sit down to a traditional meal in authentic surroundings at the Grand Hôtel du Montenvers, built in 1880. Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m): In less than 30 minutes by aerial tram, you’ll find yourself basking in an enchanting 360° view of the Mont Blanc and surrounding Alps. Visit the Vertical Lab, a museum dedicated to advanced mountaineering. Discover the Aile Mont Blanc and contemplate the immenseness of the scenery from inside this new windowed lookout point. And if you dare, step out on the sky ledge for a bit of a rush. 18 19 ONE VALLEY FOUR RESORTS SERVOZ From one end of the valley to the other, discover what each of the four different resorts has to offer. First there’s Servoz, with its tranquil village life and traditional agricultural activities. Next is Les Houches, a friendly, family resort overflowing with lively events. Several miles away is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, the skiing and mountaineering world capital is also home to a variety of boutiques and streets laden with history. And lastly, Vallorcine, the countryside village with secret hamlets close to the Swiss border. CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC VALLORCINE LES HOUCHES 20 21 Charming bed and breakfasts, cosy chalets, comfortable flats, animated vacation resorts or refined hotels — Chamonix Valley caters to your every need. You’ll find quality and diversity in every corner and for all appetites: cuisine from around the world, Michelin-starred restaurants and delicious local delights. And to top it all off, the alpine aromas and flavours of mountain-top restaurants. LIFE AT ITS FULLEST Moments worth waiting for One thing is certain, the Valley will look after you. Take advantage of the multiple spa packages available for a pleasurable and relaxing holiday away. 22 23 SNOW-FILLED SOUVENIRS This winter, your holiday in the mountains won’t be like any other. With the Mont Blanc as the backdrop, the Chamonix Valley and its teams of professionals are here to help your children, big or small, discover the joys of skiing or encourage them in their progression. Take advantage of the large choice of activities available for the whole family to build those holiday memories that last a lifetime: sports, recreation and cultural activities…and maybe even encountering the wildlife that live in our mountains! Fun for the little ones: Mini ski school for 2 to 5 year olds at Les Houches, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Argentière, Le Tour and Vallorcine. Family fun: Snowshoeing, aquatic centre for children 6 months to 4 years, indoor climbing for 10 years and older, ice rink and tennis courts. Activities galore: 2-seater paragliders starting at 5 years old (solo classes starting at 12 years), sledging hills and tracks, paintball starting at 12 years old, horse-drawn carriages, cinemas and bowling alleys. Culture: Discover Chamonix Valley’s fabulous history through its six museums. Animals: Donkey tours, dog sledge excursions, horse riding and skijoring for beginners at the Mont Blanc Equestrian Centre, savoury snacks at the goat farm, visit of a St. Bernard dog-breeding farm, encountering the alpine wildlife at the Merlet Animal Park. Famille-Plus Certified: Les Houches is part of the nationallycertified “Famille-Plus” network of resorts. This label guarantees a warm, personalised welcome, activities adapted for all ages, affordable prices and professionals trained specifically to work with children. 24 25 LIVING HISTORY From Servoz to Vallorcine, soak up a valley rich with history. Stroll through small street and museums steeped in the past. Listen attentively to the tour guides as they reveal the architectural secrets from several different eras. And who knows? You might have the chance to hear the words of wisdom of some of our alpine legends, the same ones who made the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley a land of lore and pioneers. Museum Pass: € 11 Unlimited access for one year to the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley museums: The Maison de l’Alpage in Servoz, the Musée Montagnard in Les Houches, and the Espace Tairraz, Musée Alpin and Maison de la Mémoire et du Patrimoine in Chamonix. On sale at all museum ticket counters. 26 27 IN ITALY… UNLIMITED MONT-BLANC PASS MONT-BLANC UNLIMITED AREA CHAMONIX LE PASS AREA *COURMAYEUR – 2,775 m Combine skiing, hospitality and fine food! Accessible starting with the MONTBLANC Unlimited Daily Pass LES HOUCHES AREA Daily shuttles from Chamonix available for a fee. (S.A.T bus line info/ reservations: +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15) TOTAL ACCESS! MONT-BLANC Unlimited: One pass to ski everywhere, discover everything and live your holiday to its fullest! Chamonix Valley: Brévent-Flégère, Balme, les Grands Montets, Les Houches Ski over 3 countries: France (Chamonix VALLEY), Switzerland (Verbier - 4 Vallées*), Italy (Courmayeur*) Upper altitude access: Summit of the Grands Montets (3,275 m) and the Vallée Blanche (3,842 m) Visit 3 legendary sites: The Aiguille du Midi, Montenvers train, Mer de Glace and the Mont-Blanc tramway ADVANTAGES WITH THE MONT-BLANC UNLIMITED: FAMILY DEAL: Buy 2 adult ski passes and 1 children’s pass and the rest of the children ski free during your holiday stay. ** Limit of 4 free passes WITH THE PURCHASE OF A MONT-BLANC UNLIMITED 3-21 DAY PASS: access*** to: the pool, sauna and steam room at the gym, skating rink, Alpine Museum and Espace Tairraz in Chamonix, as well as the ice rink in Les Houches and Argentière. *** One entry per day and per site — with a valid pass only. CHAMONIX LEISURE PARK: One free luge ride per day with a valid MONT-BLANC Unlimited 3-21 day pass. More information: www.chamonixparc.com or www.compagniedumontblanc.com IN FRANCE… Unlimited access to the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc ski areas: Les Grands Montets (LognanLes Grands Montets aerial tram included), Brévent-Flégère, Balme (Le Tour - Vallorcine), Les Houches, La Vormaine, Les Chosalets, Le Savoy, and Les Planards. Unlimited access to 3 tourist sites: The Aiguille du Midi aerial tram (access to the Valley Blanche), the Montenvers train/Mer de Glace (return from Vallée Blanche), the Mont-Blanc Tramway (leaving from Fayet or Saint-Gervais) for a visit on foot or access to the Les Houches ski area. *VERBIER-4 VALLÉES – 3,330 m “1ST SNOWFALL & SPRING SKIING” SPECIAL OFFERS High-quality skiing that lives up to its reputation. The top place to ski in Switzerland. FROM SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2013 TO FRIDAY 20 DECEMBER 2013* Accessible with a MONT-BLANC 6-21 Day Unlimited Pass. AND SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2014 TO SUNDAY 11 MAY 2014* IN SWITZERLAND… Weekly shuttle available on Thursdays from Chamonix for a fee. (S.A.T. bus line info/ reservations: +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15) Consecutive days Adult 16-64 years Reduced 4-15 years and 65-74 years Seniors 75 years+ other children free* 1 Day 56,50 € 48,00 € 28,30 € 161,00 € 2 Days 112,00 € 95,20 € 56,00 € 319,20 € 3 Days 167,50 € 142,40 € 83,80 € 477,40 € 4 Days 212,00 € 180,20 € 106,00 € 604,20 € 5 Days 257,00 € 218,50 € 128,50 € 732,50 € 6 Days 282,00 € 239,70 € 141,00 € 803,70 € The MONT-BLANC Unlimited Pass GET 3 DAYS FOR THE COST OF 2 Non-binding document. Information, dates and rates are for informational purposes only and are subject to change. *Limit of 4 free passes 25% DISCOUNT ON THE 6-DAY MONT-BLANC UNLIMITED PASS Mandatory, reusable contactless ski pass (not refundable) for 2-day passes and over: € 3 (For all on-line purchases, the contactless pass is mandatory starting at one day passes). * Depending on snow conditions Family 2 adults + 1 child = MORE INFORMATION: www.compagniedumontblanc.com +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75 28 29 OTHER PASSES CHAMONIX LE PASS SKI AREA LES HOUCHES ACCESS TO THREE SKI AREAS AND THE “BEGINNERS AND EASY SKI” AREAS IN CHAMONIX FAMILY SKIING IN A NATURAL SETTING An attractive ski area for all levels, a variety of snow sports, and a large selection of slopes and sensations — including the legendary Kandahar World Cup slope (La Verte des Houches). Access from the village of Les Houches (8 km from Chamonix centre) via the Bellevue aerial tram or the Prarion gondola lift, or from Le Fayet on the Mont-Blanc tramway (20 km from Chamonix centre; “Train and Ski” pass on sale at the Mont-Blanc Tramway ticket counter). VALID SKI AREA FOR PASSES Brévent-Flégère Grands Montets (except 3,275 m summit) Balme (Le Tour-Vallorcine) Le Savoy, Les Planards, La Vormaine (if open) CHAMONIX LE PASS “1ST SNOWFALL & SPRING SKIING” SPECIAL OFFERS FROM SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2013 TO FRIDAY 20 DECEMBER 2013* AND FROM SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2014 TO SUNDAY 11 MAY 2014* For more information: www.compagniedumontblanc.com SPECIAL OFFER LES HOUCHES “1ST SNOWFALL” JUST FOR FUN! The Bellevue ski area has a groomed snow park for all levels and a not-to-be-missed boardercross slope. The Prarion ski area has a marked and secure sledging slope for all ages (located in the beginners’ area). Mandatory, reusable contactless ski pass (not refundable) for 2 day passes and over: € 3 (For all on-line purchases, the contactless pass is mandatory starting at one day passes). For more information: www.ski-leshouches.com * Depending on snow conditions FAMILY DEAL: BUY 2 ADULTS + 1 CHILD 4-15 YEARS = ALL OTHER CHILDREN SKI FOR FREE (max. 4 free passes) Consecutive days Adult 16-64 years Reduced 4-15 years and 65-74 years other children free* 4-hours 34,50 € 29,30 € - - Seniors 75 years+ Family 2 adults + 1 child = Consecutive days Adult 16-64 years Reduced 4-15 years and 65-74 years 4-hours 40,50 € 34,40 € - - 1 Day 39,00 € 33,20 € 19,50 € 111,20 € 1 Day 46,00 € 39,10 € 23,00 € 131,10 € 2 Days 74,00 € 62,90 € 37,00 € 210,90 € Seniors 75 years+ Family 2 adults + 1 child = other children free* *Depending on snow conditions 2 Days 89,50 € 76,10 € 44,80 € 255,10 € 3 Days 108,00 € 91,80 € 54,00 € 307,80 € FAMILY OFFER: BUY 2 ADULTS + 1 CHILD 4-15 YEARS = ALL OTHER CHILDREN SKI FOR FREE 3 Days 126,50 € 107,50 € 63,30 € 360,50 € 4 Days 143,00 € 121,60 € 71,50 € 407,60 € 4 Days 167,50 € 142,40 € 83,80 € 477,40 € 5 Days 180,00 € 153,00 € 90,00 € 513,00 € 5 Days 210,00 € 178,50 € 105,00 € 598,50 € 6 Days 195,00 € 165,80 € 97,50 € 555,80 € 6 Days 230,00 € 195,50 € 115,00 € 655,50 € (max. 4 free passes) FROM SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2013 TO FRIDAY 20 DECEMBER 2013* Non-binding document. Information, dates and rates are for informational purposes only and are subject to change. *Limit of 4 free passes Non-binding document. Information, dates and rates are for informational purposes only and are subject to change. *Limit of 4 free passes Mandatory, contactless ski pass (not refundable) for 2 day passes and over: € 3 TRANSPORTATION FREE SHUTTLES Free rides on all shuttles within Les Houches during French school holidays with the Les Houches ski pass Free rides on the Chamonix - Les Houches shuttles with the MONT-BLANC Unlimited pass only Free rides on the Les Bossons to Le Tour shuttle with the Chamonix Le Pass and MONT-BLANC Unlimited ski passes ON-LINE SALES OF LES HOUCHES PASSES Website: www.ski-leshouches.com ON-LINE SALES COMPAGNIE DU MONT-BLANC Mobile: Compagnie du Mont-Blanc mobile web or Chamonix app for iPhone/Android Tablet: Chamonix iPad app Internet: www.compagniedumontblanc.com LA POYA TO VALLORCINE LA POYA SKI AREA (1,345 M) This small, family-oriented ski area located in Buet has two surface lifts (blue, green and red slopes), a ski tow and a Telecord for small children. +33 (0)4 50 54 69 36 / +33 (0)6 82 11 53 21 - http://la.poya.free.fr Adult 16-64 years Whether you are a beginner or expert skier, we offer a large choice of ideal ski areas in order to bask in the sun all day. Rates available on the resort websites. LES PLANARDS (1,062 M – 1,242 M)* - CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC In the city centre, the largest ski area for beginners and children. 2 green, 1 blue, and 1 red slope, plus a mini ski school. Guaranteed sun and snow. Bar-restaurant, sun deck, and free parking. Tél. : +33 (0)4 50 53 08 97 - www.chamonixparc.com SKI AREA Consecutive days CENTRE OF THE ACTION Youth 4-15 years Senior 65+ years Half-day 11,00 € 8,30 € 8,80 € 1 Day 14,50 € 11,00 € 12,40 € 6 Half days 55,00 € 41,50 € 44,00 € 6 Days 72,50 € 57,00 € 62,00 € Not accessible with the CHAMONIX Le Pass and MONT-BLANC Unlimited ski passes LE SAVOY (1,049 M – 1,125 M)* -CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC In the centre of Chamonix, at the foot of the Brévent. Specialised slopes for beginners and especially for children with 1 carpet and 2 surface lifts. Artificial snow, 3 green slopes, mini ski school. Tél. : +33 (0)4 50 53 22 75 - www.compagniedumontblanc.com LES CHOSALETS (1,230 M)* - ARGENTIÈRE Large ski area for beginners, perfect for children, located in Argentière, 500 m. away from the bottom of the Lognan aerial tram. 3 green slopes. www.chamonix.com – Only if area is open. LA VORMAINE (1,480 M)* - LE TOUR Very sunny ski area filled with snow, located in the village of Le Tour, for beginner and intermediate skiers. Perfect for all children (mini ski school), as well snowboarding beginners. 1 blue and 2 green slopes. Tél. : +33 (0)4 50 54 06 42 - www.lavormaine.com TOURCHET SURFACE LIFTS - LES HOUCHES Beginner ski area in the heart of Les Houches village: 2 surface lifts; free night skiing every Thursday evening. During French school holidays in December and February: torch-lit snack time with the French ski school (ESF) every Thursday. Tél. : +33 (0)4 50 54 49 60 - www.leshouches.com *Accessible with the CHAMONIX Le Pass and MONT-BLANC Unlimited ski passes 30 31 MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONALS DIRECTORY O W C N R H O IL SN SS L O -C SK FR W OU IIN E BO N G B ES A TR A TY RD Y C SK TE KC LE IIN LE OU G SP M N EE AR TR Y SK D K R I SI TO IDIN TS U R G TA KI IN G XI SN SK I O M W O SH U IC TA OE E IN PA CL EE R IM RI M AG BIN NG IN L G I S ID biathlon K ING IS O C R H IE O O D NT O LS E G E H S R I EL LE N I- D G SK G IIN ING G CHOISI PAR RESORTS n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n Evolution 2 n n n n n Ecorider n n n Ski Sensations n n n n n n n n n n n n n n Association Internationale des Guides du Mont-Blanc Bureau des Guides et des Accompagnateurs Chamonix Aventure n Chamonix Experience n Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix Mont-Blanc Maison des Guides de Vallorcine Mont Blanc Ski & Guide Compagnie n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n Les Houches TELEPHONE WEBSITE +33 (0)4 50 54 48 79 www.esf-leshouches.com n n n n n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 22 57 www.esfchamonix.com n n n n Argentière +33 (0)4 50 54 00 12 www.esf-argentiere.com n n n Vallorcine +33 (0)4 50 54 61 67 www.ecole-ski-vallorcine.com n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 27 05 www.guides-du-montblanc.com n n n Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 54 50 76 n n n Vallorcine +33 (0)6 80 42 58 49 www.chamonix-aventure.com n n Argentière +33 (0)4 50 54 09 36 www.chamex.com n n n n Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 55 53 57 www.evolution2-chamonix.com Chamonix-Mont-Blanc n Les Houches +33 (0)6 36 66 48 10 www.ecorider.org Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 82 10 59 22 www.ski-sensations.com n www.chamonix-guides.com n n n n n n n n n n n Vallorcine n n n n Les Houches, Chamonix+33 (0)4 50 53 62 62 Mont-Blanc, Argentière n n n n n n n n n n Peak Experience n n n Peakpowder n n n Prestige Outdoor Specialists n n n n n n n n n n n Servoz +33 (0)4 50 91 20 83 www.odyssee-montagne.fr Argentière +33 (0)6 89 06 51 03 www.peakpowder.com n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 80 20 83 70 www.prestigeoutdoor.com n n n n n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 55 94 26 n n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 12 05 www.ucpa-vacances.com/centre/chamonix n n n Argentière +33 (0)4 50 54 07 11 www.ucpa-vacances.com/centre/argentiere n n Vallorcine +33 (0)6 13 93 37 10 n n UCPA Les Glaciers n n n n n World Wide Mountain Guide Grisha Kravtchenko n n n n n n n n n n AA haut vol www.montblancskiguidecompagnie.com n UCPA Cosmique n +33 (0)4 50 54 60 69 www.maisondelamontagne-vallorcine.fr Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 20 63 18 52 www.peakexperience.com n n Stages Expéditions n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc n +33 (0)4 50 53 00 88 www.chamonix-guides.com Les Houches Odyssée Montagne n n n n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 08 23 92 65 www.absolute-chamonix.com Les Ailes du Mont Blanc n n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 20 46 55 57 www.lesailesdumontblanc.com n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 84 01 26 00 n Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 61 84 61 50 www.chamonix-parapente.fr 32 33 n TRILOGY GTX JACKET Veste en GORE-TEX® Pro 3 couches inspirée par la Trilogie hivernale des faces nord : Cervin, Grandes Jorasses, Eiger. Coutures thermo-soudées. Zips de ventilation. Capuche compatible casque. Construction ergonomique Flex ComfortTM. www.worldwidemountainguide.com Les Houches +33 (0)6 80 03 24 74 www.hautvol.fr Chamonix-Mont-Blanc n Chamonix Parapente * Soyez audacieux, osez en grand www.stagexpe.com Absolute Chamonix Antécimes Summits Parapente P. Tournaire n Philippe Batoux - Cogne, Italie D École de Ski Français Les Houches École de Ski Français Chamonix École de Ski Français Argentière École de Ski Français Vallorcine www.summits.fr 306 RUE PACCARD CHAMONIX +33 (0)4 50 53 15 11 MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONALS DIRECTORY Espace Luge Patinoire Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 54 13 82 www.chamonix-helico.fr Servoz +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 Helicopter tours Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 00 24 Vallorcine +33 (0)4 50 54 60 71 Chamonix +33 (0)4 50 53 11 15 Vallorcine +33 (0)4 50 54 61 09 Les Houches +33 (0)6 62 67 28 51 www.indianaventures.com Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 07 36 01 51 www.paintballcham.com Track luge Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 08 97 www.chamonixparc.com Artificial ice rink Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 54 52 99 Artificial and natural ice rinks Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 12 36 Natural ice rinks Argentière +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 Artificial ice rink Vallorcine +33 (0)4 50 54 75 20 Aerial Adventure Park Paint-Ball Chamonix Parc de Loisirs de Chamonix WEBSITE RESORT Foyer de ski de fond Indiana'venture TELEPHONE ACTIVITY Luge slopes Casino de Chamonix Centre nautique Club-enfants touristique in Les Chavants Les Houches Tél. +33 (0)4 50 54 43 33 enfancejeunesse@leshouches.fr Municipal Childcare Centre Les Houches Tél. +33 (0)4 50 54 48 19 creche@leshouches.fr Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 12 24 mjc.chamonix@wanadoo.fr www.mjchamonix.org ACTIVITY RESORT TELEPHONE WEBSITE Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 54 52 64 upmb.leshouches.perso.sfr.fr Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 07 65 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 Cinéma Vox Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 03 39 Mur d’escalade Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 54 76 48 Salle d’escalade Salles de sports Tennis, Squash RESERVE YOUR HOLIDAY ON LINE http://sejour.chamonix.com ATTRACTIONS Maison de l’Alpage Servoz Tél. +33 (0)4 50 54 39 76 maison-alpage@ccvalleedechamonixmb.fr Pétanque Tables games, fruit machines, jackpots, shows and entertainment Pool, sauna, steam room www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com Childcare centre “Rose bonbon” Servoz Tél. +33(0)4 50 18 54 03 mcrosebonbon@orange.fr INDOOR ACTIVITIES Boulodrome Information available in separate brochures available in each tourist office or on their websites: Registered child care providers List available from each tourist office OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Chamonix Mont-Blanc Hélicoptères LODGING CHILDCARE Gym, body building and fitness room Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 23 70 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)4 50 53 28 40 Musée Montagnard et Rural Les Houches Tél. +33 (0)4 50 54 54 74 musee-montagnard@cc-valleedechamonixmb.fr www.cinemavox-chamonix.com www.montblancescalade.com ANIMALS ACTIVITY RESORT TELEPHONE WEBSITE Horse riding, skijoring classes Les Houches +33 (0)6 13 08 33 58 www.skijoeringmontblanc.com Élevage de Saint-Bernard Visit a St. Bernard breeders kennel Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 47 23 60 Evasion Nordique Huskydalen Dog sledge rides Dog sledge rides Vallorcine Chamonix-Mont-Blanc +33 (0)6 82 09 50 03 +33 (0)6 84 99 34 67 La Compagnie des ânes Mule tours Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 47 26 18 Les Houches +33 (0)6 87 41 71 57 Vallorcine +33 (0)4 50 54 69 42 Les Houches +33 (0)4 50 53 47 89 Centre équestre du Mont-Blanc La Ferme à Payot La Ferme de Vallorcine Parc animalier de Merlet Visit and snack at the goat farm, purchase cheeses directly from producer Purchase cheeses directly from producer Discover the animal park, feed the animals For a day, a weekend or a week; in a hotel, bed and breakfast, campground, flat or chalet: The Chamonix Valley offers a large range of comfortable and welcoming accommodations. Special offers, availability, passes, ski classes, activities, and nightlife: reserve everything you need for your holiday instantly. www.evasion-nordique.com www.huskydalen.com www.lafermeapayot.com www.parcdemerlet.com Musée Alpin Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 25 93 musee-alpin@cc-valleedechamonixmb.fr BUSINESS TOURISM Espace Tairraz Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Crystal and Mountaineering Museum Tél. +33 (0)4 50 55 53 93 espace.tairraz@cc-valleedechamonixmb.fr Salle municipale Jean Morel Servoz Tél. +33 (0)4 50 47 21 51 Maison de la Mémoire et du Patrimoine Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Tél. +33(0)4 50 54 78 55 accueilmmp@chamonix.fr Guided visits of historical sites More information available at tourist offices or on each website: • www.servoz.com • www.leshouches.com • www.chamonix.com • www.vallorcine.com Espace Olca Les Houches Tél. +33 (0)6 80 88 43 06 olca@leshouches.com Bureau des Congrès Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 75 50 www.congres-chamonix.com Cinéma Vox Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Meeting rooms Tél. +33 (0)4 50 55 89 98 www.montblancseminaire.com 34 35 LOCAL TRANSPORT GETTING HERE BY CAR Free trains and buses throughout the Valley From France Direct access from the Autoroute Blanche (A40), part of the International E-road network MONT-BLANC EXPRESS TRAIN The SNCF-CFF line “Saint-Gervais - Chamonix - Martigny” stops at all the villages between Saint-Gervais/Le Fayet and Martigny (Switzerland), including Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine. The train line from Servoz to Vallorcine is free with the carte d’hôte pass. Free service is valid only for the trains leaving and arriving in stations between Servoz and Vallorcine. There are trains approximately every hour, daily. In the event of maintenance, trains will be replaced by a bus service. From Switzerland Motorway to Martigny, the Col de la Forclaz, and the Col des Montets More information: SNCF Tel.: 36 35* (€ 0,34/mn) every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.(*In France only) www.ter-sncf.com and www.voyages-sncf.com From Italy 15 km from the border after the Mont-Blanc Tunnel (Vallorcine is 25 km away) BUSSES AND SHUTTLES Chamonix Bus The regular Chamonix bus lines stop throughout the valley, from Servoz to Le Tour and allow access to the different ski areas. Free transport with the carte d’hôte or ski pass (according the validity of the zones). Traffic info. Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 05 51 1 trip: € 1,50 (rate subject to change) Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 05 55 Timetable available at www.chamonix-bus.com or at each tourist office in the valley TRAIN Train stations in the resorts St. Gervais - Le Fayet/Vallorcine/Martigny (Switzerland) line LES MULETS In Chamonix, these small shuttles provide transportation between the city centre and the main car parks. Transfers to the main Chamonix bus network. High-speed train transfers (TGVs) Annecy, Bellegarde, Genève, Lausanne SNCF Information Tél. 3635*(€ 0,34/min) www.ter-sncf.com www.voyages-sncf.com PARKING Bus and shuttle map available at www.chamonix-bus.com 1 shuttle every 10 minutes from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. during peak season (every 20 minutes in other seasons) LES HOUCHES 5 free car parks *Within France only . CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC 1 commuter car park (close to the bus lines and the free “Le Mulet” shuttle) 3 underground car parks, 5 enclosed car parks AIRPORTS Geneva International Airport (88 km) Tél. +41 (0) 22 717 71 11 - www.gva.ch Lyon/Saint-Exupéry International Airport (220 km) Tél. +33 (0)826 800 826 (within France only € 0,15 /min) From outside France: +33 (0)426 007 007 (except from French mobile phone) www.lyonaeroports.com Information: Chamonix Parc Auto Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 65 71 VALLORCINE 2 free outside car parks, 1 free inside car park Haute-Savoie Mont Blanc Airport (Annecy - 90 km) Tél. +33 (0)4 50 27 30 06 www.annecy.aeroport.fr TRANSFERS AIRPORTS SAT (Société Alpes Transports) : Daily coach transfers between Geneva and Italy Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 01 15 www.sat-montblanc.com Private transfers: List of taxis and private transfers available at the tourist offices in the valley or on each website. CARTE D’HÔTE The carte d’hôte pass allows you to use the SNCF train service between Servoz and Vallorcine and the local transport services (Mulets shuttles and buses in Chamonix) for free. The pass can be obtained from your accommodations provider and also gives you discounts on sports and cultural attractions (pool, ice rink, museums) and the indoor car parks. 36 37 EVENTS Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December Escalade Open du Mont Blanc: French Cup in grade climbing in Chamonix Saturday 7 December Nordic Monster Test: Nordic skiing festival in Chamonix Sunday 8 December Christmas market with local crafts at the salle de la Ruche in Vallorcine WEATHER AND SAFETY FRENCH WEATHER INFO: By phone: Automatic message with 7-day forecast: 3250* or +33 (0)8 99 71 02 74* (forecast for the Haute-Savoie) *premium-rate number WEBSITES www.meteo.fr www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com AT THE RESORTS 2 weather updates per day are posted in front of the Maison de la Montagne and at the tourist offices. Thursday to Sunday, 12-15 December Festival Grolleandski: Film festival in Chamonix, Les Houches, Passy and Saint-Gervais Friday to Sunday, 13-15 December Christmas market at the espace OLCA in Les Houches Monday 23 December Christmas events in Chamonix and Argentière Christmas concert: KOUBAN, Cossack singers and musicians, 6:30 p.m.at the église Saint-Michel in Chamonix Saturday to Monday, 28-30 December Christmas in the mountains: Exhibit of the works of 25 local craftspeople in Chamonix Friday and Saturday, 3-4 January Men’s European Cup Downhill Skiing: Evening slaloms in Chamonix Saturday 25 January Swatch Freeride World Tour in Chamonix (French stop for the Swatch Freeride World Tour) Saturday 1 February CosmoJazz Evening in Chamonix: Films from the CosmoJazz Festival and concert from Guillaume Perret & the Electric Epic Friday 28 February Chamonix in Red: Celebrate the French Ski School (ESF) March The Black Weekend: Electronic music festival Chamonix Valley Sunday 2 March Run & Skate : Trail running and cross-country skiing competition in Chamonix EXHIBITS Wednesday 5 March Les Houches Kids Contest: Ski and snowboard competition for 7-14 year olds: boardercross, freeride and big air From Saturday 14 September 2013 to Sunday 16 March 2014 Gabriel Loppé: Photographical Itineraries At the Maison de la Mémoire et du Patrimoine in Chamonix End of March Les Piolets d’Or in Chamonix: Celebrating the best worldwide mountaineering expeditions of the year From Wednesday 26 June 2013 to Saturday 17 May 2014 Gabriel Loppé, Artist at the Summit: Painting exhibit at the Musée Alpin, Chamonix End of April La Corse à Cham’: Corsican music festival in Chamonix Saturday 4 January French Cup Telemark Skiing in Les Houches End of April, Beginning of May Le Printemps Musical: Classical music festival in Chamonix Saturday 18 January Swatch Freeride World Tour in Courmayeur (Italy) Monday to Friday, 5-9 May Ciné Kid Mont-Blanc: Children’s film festival in Les Houches Saturday 21 December 2013 to Saturday 3 May 2014 Donald, Bécassine, Tartarin...in the Mont-Blanc Region: Classic books for children At the Musée Montagnard et Rural, Les Houches December 2013 to February 2014 New Town USA, or Meeting Unknown America: Photo exhibit by Teresa Kaufman at the médiathèque in Chamonix OFFICE DE HAUTE MONTAGNE PÔLE MONTAGNE RISK Information and prevention organisation for mountaineers and hikers Top floor of the Maison de la Montagne in Chamonix - 190, place de l’Église Open Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tél. +33(0)4 50 53 22 08 ohm-info@chamoniarde.com polemontagnerisk@chamoniarde.com www.ohm-chamonix.com CHILDREN AND HIGH ALTITUDES – OUR RECOMMENDATIONS Up to 3 years: it is recommended not to go any higher than 2,000 m. When ascending in a aerial tram, gondola lift or on a ski lift, give your child a sweet to suck on or piece of gum to chew during the ride. From 3 to 12 years: avoid any physical effort over 2,500 m. From 12 to 18 years: it is recommended not to do any physical efforts over 4,000 m. Lastly, regardless of your children’s ages or ski levels, please have them wear safety helmets and wear warm clothes. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen for the entire family. 38 39 TOURIST OFFICES SERVOZ LES HOUCHES VALLORCINE ARGENTIÈRE CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC Tourist Office (Category 2) www.servoz.com Le Bouchet - 74310 Servoz Tél. +33 (0)4 50 47 21 68 Fax +33 (0)4 50 55 53 16 info@servoz.com Tourist Office (Category II) www.leshouches.com BP 9 - 74310 Les Houches Tél. +33 (0)4 50 55 50 62 Fax +33 (0)4 50 55 53 16 info@leshouches.com www.vallorcine.com Maison du Betté - 74660 Vallorcine Tél. +33 (0)4 50 54 60 71 Fax +33 (0)4 50 54 61 73 info@vallorcine.com Tourist Office (Category I) www.chamonix.com 24, route du Village Tél. +33 (0)4 50 54 02 14 Fax +33 (0)4 50 54 06 39 argentiere.info@chamonix.com Tourist Office (Category I) www.chamonix.com 85, place du Triangle de l’Amitié - BP 25 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc CEDEX Tél. +33 (0)4 50 53 00 24 Fax +33 (0)4 50 53 58 90 info@chamonix.com Hours: During French school holidays: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Closed Sundays and on bank holidays. Regular hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday and on bank holidays. Hours: 20 December to 15 April: Every day from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturdays and French school holidays: 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Regular times: Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Closed: Sunday and bank holidays Hours: During French school holidays: Every day from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Regular times: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 14:30 p.m. to 17:30 p.m. Closed Sundays and on bank holidays Hours: December: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Closed Sunday French Christmas and Winter Holiday Periods: Every day from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. January and March: Every day from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. April and Early May: Every day from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Hours: Mid-September to French Christmas Holidays: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sundays in October (except during French autumn school holidays: open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) French Christmas holidays to mid-April: Every day from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. “FAMILLE PLUS Montagne” Label NEW RATINGS French tourist offices now have a new rating system divided into three categories. This system replaces the previous star-rated system. A Category III tourist office is a small structure with a team responsible primarily for welcoming and giving out information to tourists. A Category II tourist office is a medium-sized structure. It proposes a variety of services and has a targeted marketing policy and customer feedback tools to help improve the quality of services provided. A Category I tourist office has a fortified team of employees and initiates national and international marketing campaigns. It also aims for high-quality service and measures its global performance. The Les Houches ski resort has been given the official label of “FAMILLE PLUS Montagne”. This label ensures the hospitality and services proposed to families and children. The resort commits to a personalised welcome, activities and entertainment adapted to all ages, affordable rates and professionals trained to work with children. Tourism and Disabilities Label First tourist office in a mountainous region to have earned the “Tourism & Disability” label for the four main disabilities (motor, cognitive, hearing and visual), the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Tourist Office guarantees hospitality adapted to people with disabilities. Best of the Alps® The “Best of the Alps®” mark indicates the top holiday destinations throughout the mountainous regions. Each member of this prestigious group responds to the highest level of expectations from its international customers. An ultra-modern infrastructure, authentic alpine village atmosphere, high-quality and convivial service, as well as a complete range of services, ensure an excellent and unforgettable summer or winter holiday. The “Best of the Alps® holiday locations welcome you! French Standards Tourist Offices This mark proves compliance with the NF X 50-730 standard and the NF237 certification rules. It guarantees that the welcoming, informational, marketing/advertising, manufacturing/commercialisation, and store activities — as well as the evaluations and improvements of service quality — are verified regularly by AFNOR Certification. 11, rue Francis de Pressensé 93571 La Plaine Saint-Denis Cedex - France www.marque-nf.com 40 41 WELCOME TO SUMMER… 42 43 www.servoz.com www.leshouches.com CHAMONIX www.chamonix.com www.vallorcine.com Photo credits Jc Poirot, Joëlle Bozon, Patrice Labarbe, Monica Dalmasso, Cham 3S, RicoPhoto, Mario Colonel, Bannikov, ESF Chamonix, Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, Céline Ribordy, Sébastien Albert, David Ravanel, Christophe Henry, Christian Martelet, Huskydalen, Agence Implicite, Jean-François Hagenmuller, Christophe Boillon, Les Granges d’en Haut, Sylvie Chappaz, Filippo Ponzetti, Anthony Lamiche, La Maison Carrier, Pierre Raphoz, OT Vallorcine, Bruno Magnien, OT Chamonix, T.Shu Graphic creation, design and printing Translation Infact Global