Chamonix

Nestled close to the towering peaks of the Aiguilles Rouges in the Rhones Alpes region of France, Chamonix is one of the country's oldest winter sports resorts. In fact, it was the location of the very first Winter Olympics in 1924. Perhaps most famously the resort is adjacent to the imposing majesty of Mont Blanc. Here amidst the Alps can be found the perfect conditions for skiing, as well as more extreme sports such as ice and rock climbing, paragliding, canyoning, rafting and extreme skiing. Chamonix has five main ski areas, nearby leisure parks for all the family, a fascinating museum devoted to geology and plenty of excellent bars and restaurants offering a lively social scene.

Here amidst the Alps can be found a number of fine hotels providing spectacular scenery and excellent access to the winter sports facilities available. The Hotel les Randonneurs is a small hotel ideal for those interested in hiking and climbing, who are on a budget. The restaurant offers home cooking and regional cuisine, and on the summer terrace you can eat while gazing out at the towering magnificence of Mont Blanc. The Hotel les Aiglons is situated in the mountains and boasts close access to the Aiguille du Midi cable car. It is also close to an adventure park for all ages. There is also a restaurant and bar and from your apartment here you will have complete access to the outdoor swimming pool and full service spa. Also high in the Alps can be found the Mercure Chamonix Centre. Apartments here boast furnished balconies commanding superb mountain views. From your apartment in the Le Hameau Albert 1er you will have use of the indoor swimming pool and full service spa plus the use of the free ski shuttle. The Park Hotel Suisse and Spa is in the centre of Chamonix close to the tourism office. All apartments here offer views of the Alps, and the hotel has a swimming pool, sauna and hamam. Just minutes from the ski slopes, the Grand Hotel des Alpes offers an indoor pool and spa tub, steam room and sauna.