What’s new in Chamonix for winter 2024?
As the temperatures drop, the days get shorter, and most shops and bars close for a well-deserved interseason break, Chamonix is suddenly quiet for the first time in months. But don’t be fooled; the town will spring back into life in less than two months, ready for the ski season.
Centenary of the Chamonix Winter Olympic Games
Chamonix is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first Winter Olympic Games that took place in 1924! Various sporting events, ceremonies and exhibitions will be taking place, with 25th January being the big day. The book “Chamonix 1924: the first Olympic Winter Games” will be published both in French and English in December.
Chamonix ski season
The ski season officially starts on the 16th of December but with lots of early snow already on the slopes, the Grands Montets looks set to open for weekends before that date. The new cable car stations at Grand Montets are underway and should be completed by 2024. The winter season will last until the 4th of May – snow dependant.
Don’t forget to book your ski passes in advance. Chamonix All Year guests get the best prices via this exclusive discount link – bookmark it for when you’re ready to buy your passes! Collection is hassle-free with a QR code from one of the machines at the bottom of the lifts on your first day.
Mer de Glace gondola
We have good news for those who are planning to tackle the famous Vallée Blanche. Access to Montenvers is now much easier thanks to the new Mer de Glace gondola, which opened on the 3rd of February 2024. The existing 550 steps to access the glacier no longer exist making it easier to transport visitors to the ice cave. The brand-new International Glacier and Climate Interpretation Centre at Montenvers is due to open in December 2024.
New bus network
The bus network in Chamonix will significantly improve from December. News which many keen skiers – who rely on public transport during their holiday – have long been waiting for. Three additional bus lines will be introduced, and twelve regular lines will serve the Chamonix Valley. Please have a look at our ski areas and map guide.
Gourmet news
Under new management the chain of high altitude restaurants previously known as SERAC will be rebranded as Maison des Drus. 18 high-altitude restaurants, all located between 1807m and 3842m above sea level in extraordinary sites between Chamonix and Megève, all focusing on seasonal local products. Three high altitude restaurants will get a makeover: La Bergerie de Planpraz and Le Comptoir de Plan Praz – both in the Brévent ski area will be redecorated and redesigned, while the Tendance Foehn in the Flégère ski area will also get a makeover and will be rebranded as Foehn Sandwicherie.
On the slopes in the Les Houches area, a visit to the Vieilles Luges is always a must. The warm atmosphere matched with delicious homemade food is worth the trip itself. Down in the valley a new bakery open its virtual door: new organic bakery Pin Pin offers delicious, 100% organic bread and more. You can collect their products on various days across the Chamonix valley.
Events
When it comes to events, there is plenty to choose from this winter. Be it the Christmas market, cross-country skiing by night in the Bois de Bouchet, supporting the local team Pioneers at a hockey match or countless events during Christmas and New Year’s. The Kandahar World Cup Ski Championship will take place on 2-4th of February in Les Houches and will see the world’s best skiers compete to take the win on the legendary Verte des Houches.
Pet-friendly
Chamonix is a real paradise and that applies to our four-legged friends as well. At Chamonix All Year we have lots of pet-friendly properties to choose from.
Dogs are generally welcome in most places and even in most restaurants, however we would highly recommend checking before booking a dinner. For more information, please read our guide.
New spa
A temple to well-being at the foot of Mont Blanc – the Spa & Fitness area designed by Chalet Hôtel le Prieuré & Spa features a host of top-of-the-range equipment and a team dedicated to your well-being. The new wellness area includes a steam room, a jacuzzi, an outdoor sauna, a herbal tea room, a pool, and a fitness room. For more details visit the Chalet Hôtel le Prieuré & Spa page or find out about our other recommended spas in Chamonix.
New climbing wall
Chamonix is not only for skiers. Le Topo – new indoor climbing gym – opened its doors to all climbing enthusiasts last month. Located in le Fayet, it is open for all levels of climbers from beginners to professionals. Offering bouldering, lead and top rope climbing, yoga classes and a bistro, it is a real haven for all. A great option if you’re taking a day off the slopes.
Snow and safety
Please remember that from the beginning of November to the end of March, it is mandatory to have winter tyres or snow chains when driving through the Chamonix valley and any other mountain regions. Read more about winter driving.
Find out for yourself what’s new in Chamonix this winter
Check out our special offers on accommodation in Chamonix and bag yourself a deal for a Chamonix ski holiday this winter. We can’t wait to welcome you here.
