Chamonix Christmas market
Chamonix will become a winter wonderland with an authentic Christmas craft market.

© Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

© N Henderson

© SeeChamonix.com

© Laure Maugeais

© Argentrail

© Graham Pinkerton

© Alison Shayler
A traditional village located at the foot of the famous Grands Montets ski area
Argentière is a picturesque village within the Chamonix Valley and is just a short 10-minute car journey from Chamonix town. This charming village has been less affected by wealthy tourists and ex-patriots from various countries who have chosen to make their living in the mountains. It therefore retains a lot of authentic French charm and has a beautiful unspoilt high street with patisseries, boulangeries and wine bars.
Situated 8km further up the valley from Chamonix town and below the infamous Aiguille Verte and Drus, lies the picturesque village of Argentière.
While Chamonix itself has a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere, Argentière retains more of an Alpine village charm: the chalets and hotels here tend to be traditionally Savoyard in style and with more space and larger gardens than those in Chamonix town.
The main attraction of staying in Argentière is its proximity to the Grands Montets ski area which is home to some of the most exciting skiing in the world – both on and off piste.
Argentière may be a mountain lovers’ paradise with a laidback feel, but it still offers a good handful of shops, nice restaurants and après ski bars with live music.
| Location | Distance from Chamonix (km) | Best for |
| Vallorcine | 15 | Traditional alpine charm |
| Le Tour | 11.5 | Proximity to Le Tour ski area |
| Argentière | 9 | Proximity to Grands Montets ski area |
| Le Lavancher | 6 | Seclusion |
| Les Tines | 4.5 | Quiet hamlet vibe |
| Les Praz/Les Bois | 2.5 to 3 | Proximity to Brevent-Flegère ski area |
| Chamonix | 0 | Being in the heart of things |
| Cham Sud | 0.75 | Central location |
| Les Bossons | 3.5 | Easy access to Cham via cycle path |
| Les Houches | 8.3 | Proximity to Les Houches ski area |
| Servoz | 16 | Easy access to Evasion resorts |
In August the Fête des Guides often starts off here which is a celebration of all the professional mountaineers and tour guides who work hard throughout the year to ensure visitors can enjoy the mountains in safety. The festival includes a number of exhibitions, concerts, lectures and a fireworks display.
Chamonix will become a winter wonderland with an authentic Christmas craft market.
The snow is here and the Christmas lights in Chamonix are on, and there's plenty to do in the week before Christmas day.
Depending on when you see them will depend on what festive entertainment you will enjoy.
The local Chamonix ice hockey team, the Pionniers, play in France's Ligue Magnus, the first division. See them battle against other national teams at Chamonix's ice rink.
Take a look at the 2025 to 2026 schedule of 'spectacles', from the classical theatre of Shakespeare to hip hop dance shows.
If you're looking for a special way of celebrating Valentine's with a loved one then Chamonix is a great choice.
The Plan Joran télécabine takes you up to Grands Montets at an altitude of 1,972 metres.
The Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve was created in 1974 and is a bio-diverse area of around 16,000 hectares with spectacular views of the Col des Montets. There is an information centre where you can find out about the animals and plants of the area and buy a drink or snack.
Argentière is full of lots of brightly coloured buildings which create a fun, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. There are plenty of great places to stay as well as delicious restaurants to dine in. As far as restaurants go, The Office, which is also a popular après-ski venue for Grand Montets skiers, does mouth-watering, great value pub food.
You will find a takeaway bar and a self-service restaurant in this magnificent wooden chalet at the bottom of the Tabé chairlift. Find “Maison des Drus” products and takeaway pizzas in the snack bar, to be enjoyed on the terrace facing the ski slopes. At the self-service restaurant, enjoy a hot and filling meal without wasting your skiing time. The large room with exposed timbers offers a space to warm up and the terrace offers a place to relax.
Have a bite to eat in this lovely restaurant that can only be accessed on skis.
Right on the edge of the Lognan piste in Grands Montets, this restaurant with it's a large sunny terrace and chic interior is the perfect spot for lunch or après drinks during a day on the mountain.
Everything on the menu at this restaurant is freshly made on site by chef Laurent Duprat.
Anybody who is serious about their skiing (or après-skiing!) has partied in the bar after tackling the world famous Grands Montets. During the summer this is a great place to head for lunch which can be taken on the outdoor terrace
This restaurant serves salads, starters, pastas and pizzas, as well as steak and veal dishes. They serve really good pizzas, with an authentic Italian base, lots of fresh toppings all for a good price. Top tip: If you're skiing at Grands Montets and want to grab a bite to eat afterwards, this is the place to go. Don't forget to check the bus or train times out in advance if you're staying in Chamonix.
Argentière has its own small collection of bars, popular with locals, seasonaires and tourists alike. It's not as busy or bustling as Chamonix, but don't let that fool you into thinking you'll be having a quiet night as some of the bars get pretty rowdy for après-ski!
In summer it's a quieter affair with a more relaxed vibe. Lots of hikers and cyclists stop off here on their way back down to the centre of Chamonix.
The wildest après-ski in town at the foot of the Grands Montets in Argentière village.
Situated in the heart of Argentière village, The Office is a vibrant restaurant and bar that brings the flavours of Mexico and South America to the French Alps. With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold tastes, the menu offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a favourite for diners with diverse palates. From tacos and burritos to hearty plant-based dishes, there’s something to satisfy everyone after a day on the slopes.
The village is the home of the famous Grands Montets ski area which is the largest of the pisted skiing areas in the valley. GM, as it is known locally, has a reputation for offering some of the most difficult pisted runs in Europe as well as some of the best off-piste. However, there is no need for beginners to be put off, there are still long wide runs for them to tackle. Wrap up warm and be prepared, it is particularly chilly in this ski area until well into March and April.
Take to the skies with Evolution 2. The most exciting and beautiful way to see the breathtaking views - you are guaranteed to leave with memories of a lifetime!
The Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve was created in 1974 and is a bio-diverse area of around 16,000 hectares with spectacular views of the Col des Montets. There is an information centre where you can find out about the animals and plants of the area and buy a drink or snack.
This is a fairly short, easy run that can be done in about an hour. It’s about 25km there and back, the climb averaging just 3% or so.
Depending how keen you are there are many classic cols within a few hour’s drive. At the other side of Megeve, Flumet is a good start point for the Col de Aravis or the Col des Saises. Further on is Beaufort for Cormet de Roseland (but this would make for a long day).
This ride is 62km there and back with a demanding climb from Finhaut up to the top of the Emosson dam (averaging 8.5% with a couple of sections over 10%).
This ride is about 60km there and back with a less demanding climb than Emosson from Le Chatelard up to Col de Forclaz (average gradient 5.8% and never steeper than 8%).
This short but challenging ride can be done in half a day, including getting from Chamonix to the start point and back. It is a 15km climb with 855m of ascent that passes by farmhouses and old chalets, through a couple of quiet little villages and amongst dense pine forest to emerge on a sunny plateau with stunning views of the valley below.
This is an 80km ride there and back with a long climb back from Martigny to Col de Forclaz.
Leaving the town of Argentiere, this walk takes you through the south facing woods to the popular climbing crag of Aiguillette d'Argentiere
A lift-accessed high altitude hike above 2,000m, with some of Chamonix's most picturesque views of the valley.
This walk situated at the top of the valley offers incomparable views of the entire Mont-Blanc range, as well as the Le Tour and Argentière glaciers.
There are two ways to approach this beautifully renovated refuge. The steep path that skirts its way alongside the Le Tour Glacier, or via the chairlift to the top of the Le Tour ski area and making a long mellow traverse.
The Haute Route, (also known as The High Route or Mountaineers' Route) is the route undertaken on foot or by ski touring between Chamonix, France, and Zermatt, Switzerland.
This hike is one of the classic Chamonix “balcon” hikes, a group of trails that pass along either side of the valley taking in some of the best views and most beautiful places along the way.
Experience the perfect way to see areas of the valley that are otherwise inaccessible with Evolution 2. Are you looking for the ride of your life? Because these beautiful alpine rivers will turn into exhilarating playgrounds for fun!
Enjoy rafting, hrdrospeeding and more in the summer time with Yellow rafting.
Experience the most aquatic all out activities with Evolution 2. Are you looking for the ride of your life? Because these beautiful alpine rivers will turn into exhilarating playgrounds for fun!
There are a good selection of luxury chalets in Argentière, and you have the added benefit of more space around you as opposed to the centre of Chamonix. Most of them offer flexible catering options, but it's best to enquire when you've chosen one that suits you.
Charming three bedroom chalet in an idyllic location
This beautifully crafted chalet is full of charm and character, with mellowed timbers creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away along a lane near Les Chosalets nursery slope, it is just a three-minute drive or bus ride from Argentière and the slopes of Les Grands Montets, offering a peaceful retreat while remaining close to everything you need.
Just over an hour from Geneva airport, Chalet Falcon is an authentic Savoyard ski chalet full of character and charm. Built in 1947, it was originally a traditional mountain home before undergoing a full refurbishment in 2012, with further updates through to 2014. Today, it combines modern comfort with the warmth and atmosphere of a bygone era.
Chalet Black Squirrel is a luxury retreat blending contemporary elegance with the cosy charm of an exclusive alpine escape. Nestled in the tranquil Les Bois area, it’s thoughtfully designed to provide everything you need for an unforgettable getaway.
This charming, small self-catered chalet is the perfect getaway for a couple or small family. Situated in the village of Les Tines, between Chamonix and Argentière, it offers an ideal location for those who want to ski at both Les Grands Montets and Flegère in winter, while in summer it serves as a great starting point for numerous country walks.
Part of their Upper Class Collection, this chalet has everything you need for a truly indulgent holiday.
A broad selection of apartments are available in Argentière, from luxurious buildings to more traditional Savoyard style accommodation. Available in the summer and winter months, you're bound to find one that suits your style and budget.
Holiday rentals in Chamonix
Just over an hour from Geneva airport, Chalet Falcon is an authentic Savoyard ski chalet full of character and charm. Built in 1947, it was originally a traditional mountain home before undergoing a full refurbishment in 2012, with further updates through to 2014. Today, it combines modern comfort with the warmth and atmosphere of a bygone era.
Chalet Scierie is a beautifully renovated and recently upgraded chalet in the hamlet of Les Tines, a quiet spot ideally located for skiing in both Chamonix and Argentière. It’s just a few minutes’ drive from the Flegère lift or five minutes from Les Grands Montets. Set next to a charming chapel, with the gentle sound of a river running past and fabulous views of Mont Blanc, this pretty chalet offers a truly idyllic mountain setting.
Holiday rentals in Chamonix
Holiday rentals in Chamonix
Cosy, newly renovated two bedroom chalet close to Grands Montets
Arveyron Hotel offers a warm, authentic stay in a historic setting. With 32 comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly facilities, it’s perfect for adventurers and families alike.
A delightful hotel offering private rooms, suites and deluxe apartments situated in the picturesque village of Le Praz, just five minutes drive or 25 minutes walk from the centre of Chamonix.
This is one of the oldest hotels in the valley dating back to around 1865 when the pioneers of mountaineering took their first steps in the valley. Whist fully renovated and modernised, it still exudes the charm of those days gone by.
Nestled between nature and peaks, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc range.
This warm and welcoming chalet-style hotel exudes homeliness as soon as you pass through the front door. Authentic wooden beams and warm colours combined with a range of modern amenities, help to ensure your stay in this 'hotel de charme' is a memorable one.
Chalet Hôtel Le Castel offers a magical stay just steps from the Brévent-Flégère ski lifts. Enjoy cosy, air-conditioned rooms, panoramic mountain views, and a delicious Continental buffet breakfast served in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Argentière is well connected to all the other villages in the valley as well as the other ski areas in and around Chamonix. There are local bus and train services from both the main street and Grands Montets to St Gervais at one end of the valley and Vallorcine at the other. Argentière is also linked by road to Switzerland via the pass over the Col des Montets as well as by rail. There is access from the local train station all the way through to Martigny where you can catch lifts up to the Verbier Ski station which is perfect if you have a Mont Blanc unlimited pass!
This company offers private and shared transfers from Geneva Airport to Chamonix, nearby areas, and resorts across the Alps. With great value fares on all journeys, it’s an easy way to save money.
From the airport to the slopes, they handle the rest. Geneva's most trusted private ski transfers.
The Loyal Transfers team has been organising airport transfers to ski resorts around France since 2012. Their aim has always been to make independent travel to ski resorts cheaper and easier for everyone.
This company offers two great value shuttle services as well as a private service from Geneva and Lyon Airports to the Chamonix Valley. Established and efficient - you can rely on them.
This company provides private transfers in fully electric vehicles around the Chamonix valley, operating from airports and train stations to the ski resorts.
Beautiful apartment located on the second floor of an old hotel, near the Lognan ski lift.
Nestled on the edge of the woods, in the immediate vicinity of the ski area of Argentière in a popular area, very beautiful semi-detached chalet made by the architectural firm "Atelier 199" known for these contemporary achievements or resolutely modern design!
Located in an old hotel that's being renovated, this beautiful apartment of 163m2 is located on the ground floor in sub-plex.
Design your dream alpine home in Argentière – 140m2 shell duplex steps from les Grands Montets ski lift, with private inner courtyard, garden and west facing balcony, 1h15 from Geneva and 15 minutes from the Swiss border.
Design your dream alpine home in Argentière – 47m2 shell duplex steps from les Grands Montets ski lift, with private south facing balcony , 1h15 from Geneva and 15 minutes from the Swiss border.
Spacious three bedroom shell apartment in Argentière with private garden, balcony and wooden terrace, steps from Grands Montets ski lifts, 15 minutes from the Swiss border and 1h15 from Geneva airport.
Find out all about what is happening in the Chamonix valley and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.
See allLatest News & ReviewsChamonix hosts a wide range of sporting events throughout the year. The biggest ones include the Mont Blanc Marathon in June and the UTMB trail running race in August. In March, the Unlimited Festival brings ravers to the mountains while Musilac Mont Blanc takes place a month later. At the end of July, the Cosmo Jazz Festival hosts concerts all around the valley.
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