Les Houches is one of the largest towns in the Chamonix Valley, spreading over 8km from Vaudagne and the Col de Voza at one end, towards the bottom of the Taconnaz glacier and the Merlet Animal park at the other.
Les Houches
A large town at the bottom end of the Chamonix Valley about 6km from Chamonix
Les Houches is one of the largest towns in the Chamonix Valley and just 6km from the centre of Chamonix. Sitting at 1,000 metres, it offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Dome de Gouter from the top of its ski lifts. The town is popular with families and those looking for a more relaxed Chamonix holiday, with good amenities, restaurants and bars, as well as some of the valley’s few ski in/ski out chalets and eco-friendly accommodation.
The skiing here is perfect for all abilities, with gentle slopes for beginners as well as challenging runs like the Kandahar, used in international competitions. Les Houches also marks the start or end of the Tour du Mont Blanc for many walkers. The town is made up of charming hamlets: Chef Lieu is the centre with the tourist office, ice rink and mountain museum, Vaudagne is a favourite with cyclists and home to a husky dog centre, and Coupeau sits across the valley with the Merlet Animal Park, adventure park and the statue of Christ Roi.
Servoz
Further down the valley is the small village of Servoz - the gateway into the Chamonix Valley. This traditional Alpine village, formerly a farmer settlement, has a scattered collection of accommodation options.
With fantastic views back up the valley towards Mont Blanc, Servoz is a pretty and quiet village offering potentially cheaper accommodation options. Just be aware that if you've come specifically to ski in Chamonix, it's a 15-minute drive or you'll need to take the bus or train from Servoz to reach the main slopes of Les Houches or Chamonix.
| 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 |
Events in Les Houches
Events in Les Houches
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Farmer's market Les Houches
Local produce sold at this weekly market - fresh food direct from farm to table
Come and discover the produce of this local farm in Les Houches.
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Kandahar Alpine Skiing World Cup
Alpine Skiing World Cup in Les Houches
The Kandahar World Cup Ski Championships takes place in Les Houches.
Sights & Attractions in Les Houches
Sights in Les Houches
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Merlet wildlife park
Chamonix nature and animal park with marmots, chamois and bouquetins
Parc de Merlet is a great place to spot some local animals in their natural environment. A nature reserve, rather than a zoo, the park is perched on a large plateau high above Les Houches.
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Montagnard museum
Musée Montagnard et Rural, showing old mountain lifestyles with temporary exhibitions
Situated in a house dating back to the 1750's, this museum showcases mountain lifestyles from the reconstruction of three pieces of traditional housing and objects from everyday life.
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Les Houches summer lifts
Gondola access to VTT and hiking trails and the Tour du Mont Blanc route
Les Houches sits at the bottom end of the Chamonix Valley and is a popular place for hikers, mountaineers and mountain bikers in the summer months.
Dining in Les Houches
Restaurants in Les Houches
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Kitsch Inn Bar & Restaurant
Restaurant and bar right at the foot of the pistes, near the Bellevue lift in Les Houches
Quirkily decorated, as the name suggests, this restaurant has different rooms for different moods. Grab a quick coffee and a snack at the breakfast bar, enjoy a casual meal in the retro formica kitchen area, or sit and take your time over dinner at one of the large tables in the dining room. They also have a large sunny terrace where they serve up a nice BBQ in the summer and a kids play area.
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Rocky Pop Restaurant
Burger bar, pizza joint and French Savoyard all rolled into one relaxed and fun environment
The Rocky Pop Restaurant in Les Houches, part of the vibrant Rocky Pop Hotel opened in December 2016, reflects the brand’s playful ethos of “joy and togetherness.” The food offering matches the lively atmosphere, with a fun, diverse menu designed to please all ages and tastes. Expect crowd-pleasing dishes, colourful presentations, and relaxed dining that encourages sharing and socialising. It’s a welcoming spot where families, groups, and friends can enjoy tasty, unfussy meals in a cheerful setting.
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La Guinguette des Chavants Restaurant
Lakeside dining with seasonal flavours and a welcoming, family-run atmosphere
La Guinguette des Chavants is a relaxed, lakeside restaurant in Les Houches offering simple, seasonal cooking in a friendly setting. The kitchen focuses on fresh ingredients, with vegetables sourced locally whenever possible, and dishes prepared with care to keep things straightforward and flavourful.
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La Ferme des Agapes
Alpine atmosphere with good value Savoyard cuisine, located near the Bellevue lift
This restaurant is located right in front of the Bellevue cable car in Les Houches.
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Les Vieilles Luges Restaurant
A 'must visit' mountain restaurant in Les Houches only accessible by foot or on skis or snowboard
An authentic Alpine farmhouse with a charming ambience and great food. Located right in the middle of Les Houches ski resort, this chalet serves delicious home-cooked local produce.
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Le Basilic Restaurant
Traditional Savoyard cuisine near the Bellevue lift with a cosy, warm interior
Just across the road from the Bellevue lift in Les Houches, this is a perfect spot to recharge your batteries after a day on the mountain, or pop in for lunch.
Nightlife in Les Houches
There are a small number of bars and bars within hotels in Les Houches. Since it's quite a spread out village, they are a little thin on the ground. Try the Délice, the Kitsch Inn or Le Solerey.
Bars & Clubs in Les Houches
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Kitsch Inn Bar & Restaurant
Restaurant and bar right at the foot of the pistes, near the Bellevue lift in Les Houches
Quirkily decorated, as the name suggests, this restaurant has different rooms for different moods. Grab a quick coffee and a snack at the breakfast bar, enjoy a casual meal in the retro formica kitchen area, or sit and take your time over dinner at one of the large tables in the dining room. They also have a large sunny terrace where they serve up a nice BBQ in the summer and a kids play area.
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Rocky Pop Bar
Funky, fun and unique bar within hotel on the outskirts of Les Houches
Rocky Pop in Les Houches is a vibrant, family-friendly destination that brings fun, flavour, and energy to the heart of the Alps. Combining relaxed casual dining with a lively, upbeat atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a day on the slopes or simply enjoy a laid-back meal with friends and family. The menu features crowd-pleasing dishes, playful touches, and generous portions, creating a welcoming experience for guests of all ages throughout the year.
Things to do in Les Houches
Les Houches is a popular place to ski for families thanks to its sunny, lower altitude slopes that have a base of pastures instead of rocky outcrops like some of the other ski areas in the valley. Take a look at our Les Houches Ski Area Guide for more information. It's a good place for beginner skiers too, as the slopes tend to be a little wider and less steep. It also draws people to the tree runs on bad weather ski days.
In summer there are lots of hiking and mountain bike trails that criss-cross the area. You can drop over the top of the Col de Vosa into St Gervais and take the Tramway du Mont Blanc or the regular train back.
Things To Do in Les Houches
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Horse riding centre
Discover the mountain on horse back or take lessons in their arena
This horse riding centre is situated in just up the hill from the train station in Les Houches. The centre is open all year round and has both an indoor and outdoor arena.
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Merlet wildlife park
Chamonix nature and animal park with marmots, chamois and bouquetins
Parc de Merlet is a great place to spot some local animals in their natural environment. A nature reserve, rather than a zoo, the park is perched on a large plateau high above Les Houches.
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Montagnard museum
Musée Montagnard et Rural, showing old mountain lifestyles with temporary exhibitions
Situated in a house dating back to the 1750's, this museum showcases mountain lifestyles from the reconstruction of three pieces of traditional housing and objects from everyday life.
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Indoor climbing wall
Indoor climbing hall for learning, training & improving techniques
The Chamonix valley is home to one of the largest indoor climbing walls in France. The Mont Blanc Escalade is located in Les Houches and is open all year.
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Ski joering
Horse-driven back-country skiing experience, fun for the whole family
This is the original form of back-country sking and is horse drawn, plus great fun!
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Cinebus cinema
Cinema in the centre of Les Houches
Les Houches cinema is located in the village centre just next to the Mairie. It has just one screen and the space can also be used for conferences and presentations.
Watersports in Les Houches
Watersports in Les Houches
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Hydrospeed
Hydrospeed experience with a guide in Chamonix
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!
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Rafting
Rafting and hydrospeeding specialists in Chamonix
Enjoy an exciting introduction to white water sports this summer with Mickaël and the passionate team. Whether you are looking for adrenaline or a fun outdoor experience with friends or family, several activities are available on some of the most beautiful rivers in the region.
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White water rafting
Half-day white water rafting excursions around Chamonix
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!
Chalets in Les Houches
Whether you're looking for self-catered or catered chalets, Les Houches has got a broad selection available, some tucked away in far-flung corners for ultimate peace and tranquility, with others nearer the centre of this large village.
Chalets in Les Houches
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Scandinave Chalet
4 bedroom chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 9
Chalet Scandinave, sleeping up to six adults and three children, is ideally located near the Flégère ski lift and Chamonix’s golf course. In good snow conditions, you can ski all the way back to the chalet!
Scandinave Chalet
31 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-9 people, Self-cateredFrom€4,428€2,860 -
Le Brévent Chalet
6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 299m² Chalet in Chamonix
A modern 6-bedroom chalet right on the slopes, in the heart of Chamonix
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La Chaumière Chalet
3 bedroom chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 11
You will feel like you’re holidaying in your second home when you book this chalet located right next door to the hotel.
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Fleur De Lys Chalet
4 bedroom chalet in Les Houches. Sleeps 8
This recently renovated chalet offers a cosy, homely feel and lets you fully appreciate the surrounding nature. Enjoy the private suite, a fully equipped kitchen, and multiple living areas that provide privacy and comfort within a group.
Fleur De Lys Chalet
9 Jan 2027, 7 Nights, 1-8 people, Self-cateredFrom €3,103 -
Grand Cru Chalet
5 bedroom Chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 11
Chalet Grand Cru is a ten person chalet located in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc; this great value property features incredible views of Mont-Blanc and is only a few minutes walk from the shops, bars and restaurants in the centre of the town.
Grand Cru Chalet
12 Dec 2026, 7 Nights, 1-10 people, Self-cateredFrom €9,109Visit websiteSave an extra 10%. Book direct + use code: STW10
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Simandou Seasonal Chalet
5 bedroom chalet near Les Houches. Sleeps 12
Nestled in the very quiet and unspoilt area of Vaudagne, this magnificent family chalet with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms combines alpine charm with high-quality amenities and offers an ideal living environment, just a few minutes from the ski slopes of Les Houches and the centre of Chamonix.
Holiday Rentals in Les Houches
Les Houches offers a range of apartments for summer and winter, from 4-star to more basic accommodation. Take a look at our selection by clicking the link below.
Holiday Rentals in Les Houches
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Brigitte's Mazot Chalet
1 bedroom chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 2
Brigitte's Mazot in Chamonix is a cosy, peaceful chalet with stunning views of Mont Blanc.
Brigitte's Mazot Chalet
31 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-2 people, Self-cateredFrom€1,154€910 -
La Ginabelle Residence - 2 Bedroom Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Chamonix. Sleeps 6
Located at the heart of Chamonix, the “La Ginabelle” residence proposes spacious apartments with an excellent standard of facilities and services. Ideally located for easy access to the finest tourist sites: the little Montenvers train will take you to the “Mer de Glace” while the “Aiguille du Midi” cable car will carry you up to magnificent summits.
La Ginabelle Residence - 2 Bedroom Apartment
12 Dec 2026, 7 Nights, 1-6 people, Self-cateredFrom€991€795 -
Chal'heureux Chalet
5 bedroom chalet in Chamonix. Sleeps 12
Traditional chalet hand built by a master craftsman. Chal’heureux is the perfect combination of a luxury winter hideaway and only a short walk from the centre of Chamonix with the Mont Blanc dominating the view from the main windows.
Chal'heureux Chalet
24 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-12 people, Self-cateredFrom €6,500 -
Le Hameau Des Neiges Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Les Houches. Sleeps 6
Le Hameau des Neiges is a beautiful apartment for family of 4 with additional sleeping for up to 2 people located in the foothills of Les Houches, a quick 10 minute drive from the bars, restaurants and shops.
Visit websiteSave an extra 10%. Book direct + use code: STW10
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Tannuaz Chalet
4 bedroom chalet in Les Houches. Sleeps 8
Welcome to Chalet Tannuaz, a renovated family chalet in Les Houches, offering exceptional views of the surrounding nature. Perfect for a mountain getaway, it enjoys a quiet and privileged location close to hiking trails.
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La Riviere Residence - Studio Apartment
Renovated studio apartment in Chamonix. Sleeps 4.
La Riviere Residence is located in Chamonix Sud, just 300 metres from the Aiguille du Midi cable car and around a five-minute walk from central Chamonix. Its convenient location makes it a practical base for exploring the resort and surrounding ski area.
La Riviere Residence - Studio Apartment
28 Nov 2026, 7 Nights, 1-4 people, Self-cateredFrom€481€440
Hotels in Les Houches
Choose from boutique-style chalet hotels, contemporary style interiors, or the more traditional Savoyard style.
Hotels in Les Houches
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La Riviere Apartment Residence
Well-equipped self-catered apartments in the heart of Chamonix
Peaceful apartment residence just a short walk from the train station and cable car.
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Faucigny Hotel
Smart, modern, boutique-style hotel in the town centre with spa facilities
Completely renovated in Scandinavian style, Le Faucigny is a charming small hotel in the town centre. Whether you're with family or friends or enjoying a romantic getaway, the hotel provides the ideal setting for a pleasant stay in the legendary Mont-Blanc valley.
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Lyret Hotel
Mountain-inspired hotel, ideally located in the centre of Chamonix
Hotel Lyret blends Alpine charm with modern creativity, offering a unique stay where art and hospitality come together.
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Pointe Isabelle Hotel
Good quality, modern accommodation in the centre of Chamonix
Ideally located, the hotel has 45 spacious, well appointed bedrooms with great views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges mountains.
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La Ginabelle Premium Residence
Family-friendly apartments with spa facilities in the heart of Chamonix
La Ginabelle offers cosy, alpine-style apartments, just steps from shops, restaurants and mountain adventures.
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La Folie Douce Hotel
Spectacular mountain escape with a lively spirit and family fun
This hotel offers stunning alpine views, a vibrant atmosphere, and thoughtful amenities for families. Enjoy spacious rooms, an outdoor heated pool, yoga, spa treatments, and activities for all ages right at the foot of the ski slopes.
How to get to Les Houches
Transfers for Chamonix
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Private & Shared Airport Transfers
Easy transfers from Geneva Airport to Chamonix and nearby resorts
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.
Visit websiteSave an extra 5%. Use Alpine Fleet discount promocode: STWSKI
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Private Airport Transfers
Effortless and reliable ski transfers from Geneva Airport to resort
From the airport to the slopes, they handle the rest. Geneva's most trusted private ski transfers.
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Private Airport Transfers
Geneva Airport to Chamonix from €229 per vehicle one-way (weekend rate)
Enjoy a hassle-free journey to Chamonix with an experienced Alpine transfer company operating since 2012. Private door-to-door transfers come with professional drivers who know the mountain roads and flight monitoring to help manage delays. Choose between standard or VIP minibuses, with complimentary child seats available for families. Free onboard Wi-Fi and handy pick-up reminders are among the thoughtful extras that help make your journey easier.
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Private Airport Transfers
Eco-friendly private transfers from Geneva to the Chamonix valley
This company provides private transfers in fully electric vehicles around the Chamonix valley, operating from airports and train stations to the ski resorts.
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Private & Shared Airport Transfers
Low-cost shared and private transfer shuttle service from Geneva Airport
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.
Property For Sale in Les Houches
Property for Sale in Les Houches
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House for Sale | ferme-de-la-source-9808eabd-bcfc-44fb-a667-472d2a0ae0d7
5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 476m², Farm House in Les Houches
Meticulously reconstructed in 2020 by the current owner as their primary residence, Ferme de la Source is a beautifully appointed five-bedroom farmhouse perched above Les Houches, offering a perfect blend of historic character and contemporary luxury.
House for Sale | ferme-de-la-source-9808eabd-bcfc-44fb-a667-472d2a0ae0d7
€4,800,000 -
Chalet for Sale | annabelle
5 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 230m² chalet in Les Houches
Chalet Annabelle is a wonderful, 5-bedroom chalet on a large plot on the south-facing slopes of Coupeau, high above the Chamonix Valley. Fully renovated and extended in 2009, the chalet has wonderful views of the mountains, from Mont Blanc round to the ski slopes of les Houches.
Chalet for Sale | annabelle
€1,995,000 -
House for Sale | maison-de-la-source-af3d555f-d641-4a22-8a6d-34fbf871d73e
10 bedroom, 9 bathrooms, 300m², Chalet in Chamonix
Stunning alpine property currently divided into two independent residences with a combined 10 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms, ideally located within walking distance of the Prarion ski lift in Les Houches.
House for Sale | maison-de-la-source-af3d555f-d641-4a22-8a6d-34fbf871d73e
€1,950,000 -
Chalet for Sale | 86095191
7 bedroom chalet in Les houches
Located in the heart of Les Houches, just 100 meters from the Bellevue cable car, local shops (restaurants, bakery, etc.), and the nearest bus stop, this high-end chalet offers an ideal setting for mountain enthusiasts in all seasons.
Chalet for Sale | 86095191
€2,285,000 -
Chalet for Sale | chalet-des-pistes
8 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 457m² chalet in Les Houches
A well-built, spacious chalet completed in 2017 with 8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms situated in an elevated ski-in ski-out position in Les Houches. The chalet has beautiful views up the Chamonix Valley and of the Mont-Blanc massif from the living area, terrace and garden.
Chalet for Sale | chalet-des-pistes
€3,450,000 -
House for Sale | ferme-des-chavaux-5ccf9d4d-0628-4955-828d-f3942525a091
4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 147.5m², Chalet in Les Houches
Located in the peaceful hamlet of Les Chavaux in the well-known Chamonix valley ski village of Les Houches, this character property dating from 1873 offers a rare renovation opportunity in a stunning natural setting.
House for Sale | ferme-des-chavaux-5ccf9d4d-0628-4955-828d-f3942525a091
€890,000































































