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What's new this summer in Chamonix

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By Tracy Wise, Updated

As the winter recedes, spring slowly turns to summer in the Alps.

The growing popularity of Chamonix as a summer resort means that increasingly the tourist industry here is providing more for its visitors to enjoy.

The lifts are usually open by the middle of June, with a few opening on the preceding weekends. You can find out more about the lift opening dates and plan accordingly.

With the rise of summer visitors, the mountain resorts are making a concerted effort to not allow themselves to look like a closed ski resort. The potential revenues this time of year brings is not to be sniffed at, and as temperatures rise at the coastal resorts, many are seeking the cooler temperatures of an 'at altitude' holiday. Plus being 'outdoorsy' and hiking and trail-running have all taken on a certain cachet in recent years. 

If you're planning a visit to Chamonix this summer, whether as a first-timer or it's your 'go to destination' here's an update and a look at all that's new.

On the slopes

Design plans by Renzo Piano for Grands Montets

Developments at Grands Montets

The reconstruction of this major site will continue through the summer, meaning the entire area will be closed to visitors, including to those that love hiking the domain. The design team led by architect Renzo Piano, winner of the 1998 Pritzker Prize, is continuing its works which began in the spring and summer of 2023.

For those interested, full opening is expected for December 2026, with one lift, two sections, three stations. The first section will have a 10-seat gondola that will arrive at a new single station, with a separate second section departure station complete with catering area and space for ski patrol and rescue services. Access to the summit will be within a 'type 3s detachable cable car' with 24 seats.

In town

A man swings a golf club in an indoor golf simulator, with a virtual course projected on a large screen behind him.

New Indoor Golf

Swing House is a new place to head for indoor golf with family, friends or colleagues. They have an ultra-realistic golf simulator, friendly bar and they also show major sporting events on their screens. Open all year round, ‘swing’ by for a round or two.

HOKA's new Chamonix store

Born in the Alps in 2009, HOKA have been the footwear and apparel sponsor of the Chamonix UTMB since 2022, and have now officially arrived in Chamonix, positioning themselves as the ultimate destination for running innovation. Their brand new store in the heart of Chamonix is where you'll find all of their footwear, plus clothing and accessories. Open every day. 

Dining in Chamonix

Breizh Cafe arrives

Brittany food flavours unite with the Alps in this new restaurant. Focusing on the mountain specialties, the menu features cheese, of course, from Savoy artisan cheese-maker Joseph Paccard with recipes based on Reblochon or Raclette. 

La Guinguette des Chavants reopens

Head to Les Houches lake this summer to enjoy the new kitchen and dining room team. Worth noting is they do Sunday brunch between 11:00 and 15:00 - an ideal way to start the day, whilst the kids play on the nearby play park.

Try genuine Argentine empanadas at El Chaltén 

Take a bite of crispy dough with tasty fillings in this warm and friendly spot that has a indoor and outdoor seating where you can watch the world go by from its central Chamonix location.

More inspiration...

Visit our events calendar page for more information on what's on in Chamonix this summer.

Latest News & Reviews

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.

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Upcoming Events

Chamonix 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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