Located next to Switzerland and Italy, a one-hour drive from the Geneva airport, Chamonix Mont-Blanc has nightlife, museums, and a 200-year history. The Mont-Blanc unlimited lift pass gives access to the entire ski resort (cable cars, ski buses and a one-day ski pass in Italy).
French Alps ski villages
French members of the Alpine Tourism Commission include Morzine Avoriaz, in a little valley that stretches to the Swiss frontier; Serre Chevalier, one of the largest ski areas in France, surrounded by 13 charming villages; Val Thorens, with gourmet restaurants, from trendy to Michelin star; and Val D'Isère, which boasts high-quality accommodations, bars, restaurants and nightlife near the Italian border.
Megève combines sporting activities with traditional architecture. Le Chalet des Sens hotel combines old wood with contemporary elegance.
Ski shuttles
The main gateways to the French Alps are Lyon and Geneva. From these airports, most resorts offer shuttle service to the ski villages.
Many local restaurants have a Michelin star and serve regional specialties like tartiflette. The delicious dish is made from potatoes and bacon with a whole round of Reblochon cheese, cut in half and laid across the top, before the casserole is put into the oven.
Chamonix special events
Chamonix Mont-Blanc hosts several special events, including the Moscow Mont-Blanc Festival and Kandahar World Cup (Men's Super combined downhill & men's downhill), in January; Free Ride Days (an annual gathering to close the Grands Montets ski area) and Festival of Earth & Human Sciences, in May.
Chamonix Pro Am Golf, Mont-Blanc Marathon and Climbing Festival take place in July; Mont-Blanc Musical Weeks, mid-July to mid-August; and Mountain Guides Festival and Mont-Blanc Ultratrail, in August.
