Dominated by majestic Mont Blanc, the Chamonix valley cuts a deep path through Europe’s most impressive mountains and has long been a mecca for mountain sports enthusiasts both winter and summer. Although picturesque Chamonix town has an altitude of only 1035m, much of the skiing is above 2000m with generally good snow coverage throughout the season – the area is renowned for its extensive, steep terrain. The ski terrain is divided into five main areas along the valley, with a regular ski bus service between each area.

The sister resort of les Houches lies at the lower end of the valley only 6km from Chamonix town – the lifts are owned separately and access to the resort’s sheltered, wooded slopes can be purchased individually or as part of a Mont Blanc Unlimited pass of two of more days duration (covers all the Chamonix Valley resorts plus the top Grand-Montets Cable car, the Aiguille du Midi, Montenvers train and a day in Courmayeur, Italy). Alternatively, the Ski Pass Mont Blanc covers all the resorts in the ‘Pays du Mont Blanc’ which also includes Megeve and Les Contamines.

The chic and sunny town of Megeve, situated within the Evasion Mont Blanc ski pass area to the west of Mont Blanc, is one of France’s original winter playgrounds with extensive, easy runs and lots of smart restaurants and boutiques – ideally suited to those who are just as happy off the piste as on!

Chamonix Valley and the Pays du Mont Blanc are extremely convenient for Geneva Airport, being only around an hour's drive away, with good transport links.