Freshen up your holiday by using Chamonix’s natural fresh water sources. On hot summer days, it’s easy to empty a water bottle quickly, and knowing where to refill makes exploring the valley much easier. This guide highlights some of the most convenient places in Chamonix to top up with fresh, drinkable water while you’re out and about.
Protecting our environment
Using a reusable water bottle is a simple way to reduce waste and make the most of the many public water fountains around the valley. These refill points are easy to incorporate into everyday walks or longer day trips, helping you stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic.
An aluminium or lightweight stainless steel bottle works particularly well, keeping the naturally cold spring water fresher for longer during warm weather. Making small, practical choices like this is an easy way to enjoy a more eco-friendly holidays in Chamonix.
Staying healthy
Drink from these natural water sources and you’ll taste the pure, glacial water of the Chamonix Mont Blanc valley. Many of these taps, pumps and fountains draw directly from alpine springs and naturally contain minerals that are often removed during filtration or treatment.
Unlike tap water supplied to kitchens and bathrooms, most of these direct sources are free from the chemical additives commonly used in municipal water systems, offering a fresh and refreshing way to stay hydrated while exploring Chamonix.
A taste of history
Many of Chamonix’s water sources date back to the 19th century, while others are far older, originally serving the valley’s farming communities. One of the most interesting examples can be found in Servoz, easily reached using the free train with your guest card.
Here, the Source du Mont once supplied local families and even soldiers from the nearby Maison du Lieutenant, which dates back as far as 1480.
The local cure
Locals often say that the highest mineral-content water in the valley can be found along the Route des Pècles. Legend has it that a litre of this glacial spring water will cure whatever ails you and help keep you young. While staying hydrated anywhere will have its benefits, this is widely considered one of the best natural water sources in Chamonix.
Raw water facts
According to reporting by Vox, proponents of so-called “raw” water believe it retains natural minerals that are removed during the filtration and treatment of tap or bottled water. Globally, water treatment is designed to remove bacteria, parasites, pesticides and other contaminants.
Researchers examining the trend, particularly in places such as San Francisco, caution that drinking untreated water can carry risks, while the potential downsides of filtered water are often overstated. As with many things, it’s a matter of weighing up the benefits and risks. In Chamonix, these water sources are commonly used without issue and provide a convenient way to refill your bottle on a hot day.
A secret site
One lesser-known spot on our map is the ruins of a former thermal bath known as the Sulphurous Source of Les Mouilles. Hidden in an overgrown forest close to central Chamonix, this graffiti-covered site feels like a forgotten time capsule. Please note that it sits on private land and should only be visited with permission from the owners.
Local historian Christine documents the site on her blog, sharing its history and atmosphere. Sadly, the once-celebrated healing waters are no longer accessible, the site having fallen into years of quiet, atmospheric neglect.
The Chamonix All Year source
Just off Rue du Lyret, close to the Chamonix All Year office, there’s even a local water source we know well. Now fitted with a modern tap, this historic fountain provides fresh spring water at a naturally cool, drinkable temperature.
Like the other public water sources around the valley, it’s ideal for refilling your bottle while out and about in town — simple, refreshing, and straight from the source.
Our top water sources in Chamonix
You’ll find all of our recommended water sources in Chamonix — including the hidden ruin — marked on our official map below. The locations have been cross-checked using France’s official drinking water directory, making it easy to find safe, reliable refill points as you explore the valley.
La source des Pècles
572 Route des Pècles, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
La source des Pècles is a traditional water fountain set above a stone trough on Route des Pècles, just a short walk from Chamonix All Year’s Chalet Martinique.
Historically, this spring supplied local farms and the carriage horses travelling in and out of Chamonix. Today, it’s still a favourite with locals, and it’s common to see people stopping to refill their bottles with fresh spring water.
Chamonix town centre fountains
La source du Lyret
69 Rue du Lyret, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
The most convenient water source for Chamonix town centre, located close to the Chamonix All Year offices and ideal for a quick refill while you’re out exploring.
La source Place du Poilu
Another centrally located fountain, perfectly placed for topping up your water bottle on the way to or from the train station.
La source de la Poste
A particularly attractive fountain situated directly in front of Chamonix’s main post office. It’s also conveniently located opposite Chamonix All Year’s Le Kursaal apartment, making it an easy and scenic stop for a refill in the heart of town.
La source des Praz de Chamonix
100 Route des Tines, 74400 Les Praz, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
This water source is located in front of the Chapelle des Praz, built between 1941 and 1960 as a place of thanks for the village being spared the worst of the Second World War. The fountain is conveniently located near the bus stop opposite the Téléphérique de la Flégère, making it an easy refill point when travelling through the area.
Source des Fontanettes
54 Chemin des Chosalets, 74400 Argentière, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Throughout its history, Argentière has been home to a strong Protestant community. In the 1920s, residents came together to build a local church, and in 1984 the nearby Source des Fontanettes became another important feature of village life.
Further thermal water sources nearby
There are two well-known thermal spas within easy reach of Chamonix, offering a more traditional spa experience using naturally heated water.
In France, the spa town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is named after its historic thermal baths. These have been in use since 1807 and today offer pools, saunas and hammams, alongside massages and specialist skincare treatments based on the area’s mineral-rich waters.
Just across the border in Italy, on the far side of the Mont Blanc Tunnel, the thermal baths of Pré-Saint-Didier draw on naturally heated springs that have been used since Roman times. Set in a dramatic mountain location, they offer a relaxed and luxurious day out, with outdoor pools and panoramic alpine views.
Did we miss your favourite water source in Chamonix?
Staying well hydrated is especially important at altitude. Drinking water regularly throughout the day — with meals, between meals, and before, during and after exercise — helps your body adapt and perform at its best in the mountains.
Starting the day with a glass of water is a simple habit, and if you’re feeling hungry or tired while out exploring, a drink can often help. With so many fresh water sources around Chamonix, it’s easy to keep your bottle topped up wherever the day takes you.
