Chamonix

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Eco-friendly travel guide to Chamonix advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Chamonix, France.

Chamonix valley and Mont Blanc as seen from la Flégère


  • Air quality: 4.5 / 5
  • Exploring by foot: 4.5 / 5
  • Exploring by bicycle: 4 / 5
  • Public transportation: 4.5 / 5
  • Parks: 3.5 / 5
  • Outdoor activities: 4 / 5
  • Locals' English level: 3.5 / 5
  • Safety: 4.5 / 5
  • Accommodation: US$70 - $200
  • Budget per day: US$150 - $350

Responsible Travel

Chamonix is one of the cities found in France. It is among the most developed cities in the country and even the region. From infrastructure to the economy, most of the sectors of this city have progressed beyond the set levels. Tourism in Chamonix has continued to grow as many tourists usually flock this city every year. Traveling responsibly while in Chamonix will go a long way in ensuring that its prosperity and tranquility continues to grow. There are several ways in which we can travel responsibly while in Chamonix include:

  • Using low impact means of transportation such as buses, trains, or bicycles more often
  • Contributing directly to the economy by buying local products
  • Purchasing souvenirs that have been locally made
  • Eating more vegetarian and vegan dishes more often
  • Supporting initiatives that aim to reduce air pollution in Chamonix


Air Quality and Pollution

Generally, the air quality in Chamonix is good and does not contain a high density of pollutants.

  • Main pollutant- O3 - 23.7 µg/m³
  • PM 2.5- 2 µg/m³
  • NO2- 12.5 µg/m³
  • PM10- 3.3 µg/m³
  • Air Quality Index- 10 US AQI
  • Air Pollution Level- Good

So, you would not have any breathing problems when in Chamonix. Regardless, if you have severe respiratory issues, discuss precautions with your doctor before travelling.


Respect the Culture

The culture of the French is one of the most famous cultures in the world especially the beautiful romance and beautiful language that accompanies it. They also have an amazing array of traditional delicacies and the notable French attitude. Chamonix brings out this vibrant culture and adds the outdoor aspect due to its location. People are able to engage in outdoor activities such as cycling, skiing, and even walking tours. Patience is also another important virtue of the French culture. The slow pace of life here requires that patience in high magnitude. You are advised to be prepared to receive slow service in some areas but this is not a sign that the people here are rude, it is just a way of life. Also, the locals here in Chamonix take pride in their culture including their beautiful surroundings.


Top 10 Places to Visit

There is much to see and do in this popular winter resort town of France. To have a proper tour of Chamonix, you should definitely visit the following places on your travel.

  • Mer de Glace- One of the biggest glaciers in the whole of Europe, Mer de Glace is a crowd-favorite for locals and tourists alike. Visitors would experience a wonderful view of the mountain peaks of Les Grandes Jorasses and Les Drus, and enjoy a scenic journey to the 100-meter-long Grotte de Glace cave as well.
  • Les Houches Ski Resort- This particular ski resort is one of the best places to go in terms of enjoying the winter sport with your family. You would notice at least 28 ski runs at this wonderful resort, through forestry and multiple chalets all around. Overall, the ski runs stretch for 55 kilometers and is a killer choice in terms of panoramic mountain views. The ones visible from here are the mountain peaks of Aiguilles. As a beginner, you can opt for the specialty ski runs near the Prarion lift. But, if you are a professional skill-level skier, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are wonderful to practice here.
  • Aiguille du Midi- For a wonderful view of the Chamonix landscape, going to the Aiguille du Midi is a must. You can hop onto the vertical ascent cable car available here, and get a wonderful look at the massive mountain terrain all around. For those unafraid of heights, a trip via the glass elevators would enhance the experience further.
  • Grands Montets- This garden escape is full of vibrant wildflowers and green pastures. So, if you visit Chamonix in the summer, you should take a walk through the trails and enjoy the scenery all around. The silhouette of the Aiguilles mountain range is exceptionally stunning from here. So, for a scenic tour of Chamonix, this area is a must-visit for everyone.
  • Musee des Cristaux- This is a small museum area that features a vast variety of crystals, rocks, and minerals. When you visit the museum, you and your companions can view the rock collections. Especially the minerals of Mont Blanc. Besides that, other attractions include the crystal gallery, mountaineering and climbing-related displays, and a kid's section for knot-tying and wall-climbing activities.
  • Rochers des Gaillands- For rock-climbers especially, this is a wonderful area to go to, mainly for the challenge alone. The massive granite structure has very complex climbing routes alongside its northern point. Also, those who are new to rock climbing can opt for the boulders situated in this area instead. There is a mountain climbing school in this area close to Gaillands Lake, which was built back in 1936 by Roger Frison-Roche. If you enjoy visiting historic points during your tour, this place is worth visiting.
  • Tramway Du Mont-Blanc- Those who are into skiing would definitely appreciate this tramway, not to mention the sights all around. As you travel through the landscape on this ride, you would get a picturesque view of the mountainous panorama. Also, if sightseeing is not your main aim but skiing is, the tram line stops at various stations for mountain trails. Therefore, be sure to take a ride on this while touring through Chamonix.
  • Merlet Animal Park- For animal lovers, the Merlet Animal Park is the go-to spot in Chamonix. It is stretched over a 21-hectare area and covers rock outcroppings, fields, and forestry. Overall, you would get a view of eight wild animal species that live in this park. One of them is the llama mainly noticeable in South America called ibex. Moreover, the local officials organize presentations in this area during the summer about the park and the animals. If you wish, you can take part in that.
  • Argentiere- This is a small village in the region of Chamonix valley which attracts a vast majority of tourists. Surrounded all around by mountains, this picturesque location is a popular destination for snowboarders, skiers, and hikers. The whole area is mainly known as the Argentiere basin, and you can also view the Argentiere glacier at its South-East point.
  • Glacier des Bossons- This man-made cave is a draw for people who want to visit a winter wonderland- literally. Covered throughout with ice, you can travel further into the glacier and marvel at the views all around. Overall, this is definitely worth visiting.
Mer de Glace


Explore

When you visit Chamonix, you should add the following places to your itinerary besides the ones already mentioned.


City Parks

  • Park Couttet- One of the loveliest parks to visit in this town of Chamonix is Park Couttet. It is located in the middle of the town center, and is a popular spot for picnics and lounging. So, if you want to spend some time on your own reading a book or spend quality time with your family, this naturally beautiful area is a wonderful choice.
  • Les Gaillands- This park is located slightly outside of the town, yet is a popular area for visitors and locals. You can enjoy a quiet time fishing at the lake within the park or organize a picnic. Either way, this is a lovely spot to visit for a comfortable time in Chamonix.
Les Gaillands


National Parks

While Chamonix is full of wonderful natural areas with luscious greenery and fauna, there are no national parks in the city itself. There are, however, some national parks like the Vanoise National Park near to the area. But, you have to take a long route from Chamonix to reach there.


Beaches

Chamonix does not have any beaches. However, visitors can make do with the stunning mountain lakes when they visit the region in the summer. There are two lakes here in particular; the Lac des Ilettes and Lac de Passy.


Landmarks

  • Mont Blanc- Historically, this is the highest peak in the entire Europe, at a height of 4,809 m. You can go through the Mont Blanc Tunnel or go to the summit in a cable car. Regardless of your choice, you would enjoy amazing views when traveling through here.
Mont Blanc


Museums

  • Alpine Museum- Built in the late nineteenth century, the Alpine Museum is a historical spot in Chamonix. You can view the 18th-20th century Mer de Glace artistic artifacts kept here, and get a guided tour through the history of the valley.
Alpine Museum


Eat

When you visit Chamonix, a lot of things are bound to interest you including their cuisine. There are many different restaurants available at this spot, with different French classic food dishes. Some provide other types of food from different cultures of the world, like Japan, Mexico, and Spain. However, given its smaller domain, there are not a vast amount of restaurants available throughout the town.

Budget-wise, you would get choices of restaurants, which serve either high-rate Michelin star dishes and others serve affordable comfort food. Moreover, during lunchtime, a lot of the restaurants prepare a "dish of the day" for their customers, or locally called "Plat du Jour". The chefs use the freshest seasonal vegetables and products, local meat, and salads.


Traditional Local Restaurants

A lot of the places in Chamonix provide traditional French food to the visitors and locals. These areas are spread apart throughout the city, and some are present in small crooks and crannies of the town. For travelers, it is interesting to roam around the city and come across a traditional French Bistro, Mountain hut, or classy restaurant. The chefs in charge use the freshest ingredients in creating the dishes and provide regional wines with them.

If you are wondering where to go, the following are some good examples.

  • La Bergerie De Planpraz
  • Le Panier Des 4 Saisons
  • Chez Constant
  • La Maison Carrier
  • Albert Premier restaurant
  • Rue Joseph Vallot


Vegetarian and Vegan

For people who enjoy vegetarian dishes more, finding good restaurants that provide multiple vegetarian and vegan options is tough. Luckily, Chamoniards focus on healthy food a lot and there are several good vegetarian restaurants at this spot. Plus, some of them offer vegan-friendly choices as well. However, mostly, you would have to make a request for a vegan preparation rather than getting a list of options. So, keep that in mind.

The chefs prepare the dishes with the utmost care and use fresh local produce. In this town, most of the restaurants that offer vegetarian options double as non-vegetarian places as well. Thus, for family travelers with different tastes for all, this is a good thing. However, if you prefer a completely vegetarian-oriented spot, the Tête à Thé in Argentiere is the only available one in the valley.

Overall, you would have a fulfilling menu at the following top food places in Chamonix.

  • Tête à Thé
  • Kitsch Inn
  • Monkey Bar & Restaurant
  • Jekyll Bar
  • Ghandi Restaurant
  • Casa Valerio
  • Satsuki
  • L'Impossible
  • Sesame


Street Food

While traveling through the Chamonix valley and seeing all that it has to offer, it would be wrong not to try the street foods available here. Indeed, you would find many small-scale and homely food places for the quick bite to eat. They provide healthy options and some provide take-away options as well. Consequently, you can try them back at your hotel room or as you travel through the region, whichever suits you better.

The following are some of the best places to go to in Chamonix when it comes to street food.

  • Cool Cats
  • Hibou Deli
  • Monkey
  • La Petite Blaitière
  • Cham' Streetfood
  • Chamon'ice


Drink

There is a lot to love in the winter wonderland of Chamonix, including in the summer months as well. A lot of the tourists visiting the region and the locals enjoy going to the different food spots at this place to enjoy the different cuisines. Additionally, many of them offer delectable drink options, ranging from beer to complicated cocktails. In fact, many of the bars offer discounts as well, which the visitors enjoy immensely. Tequila and beer are popular choices among the visitors. The Tuesdays in particular are great for the budget-conscious travelers in many of the bars who want to enjoy Tequila shots. Besides the two drinks mentioned, wines and cocktails are favorite choices. Besides that, those who want something flavorful and healthy can opt for soft drinks or juices. Sesame, for example, offers wholesome organic juices to those who go to the location.


Tap-water

One of the main things to consider when traveling to a new place is what the tap water in the region is like. Luckily, given its location in the mountainous region, the natural tap water is not that harmful. Hence, if you are thirsty and need a drink, you can have a glass of tap water without any issue.

However, for the safest experience, buying mineral water is a better choice in Chamonix. It is not too expensive, and comes in two forms- still (non gazeuse) and carbonated (eau gazeuse). Yet, if you are on a strict budget and visiting the area in the summer months, you can make do with the tap water. This is especially important in the hot months when you should stay hydrated as much as possible.


Organic Cafés

There are not a lot of organic cafes present in the Chamonix region; though you may come across some cute little bakeries on your tour through the city. They provide a tasty selection of homemade bread, cakes, and other patisserie treats. For those with a sweet tooth, many of them offer amazingly tasty chocolate recipes. The locals in charge of these establishments provide fresh vegetarian options and some give non-vegetarian treats as well. Overall, you can sit at the cafes or bakeries and enjoy the warm just-out-of-the-oven baked items whenever you visit the area. Some of the popular cafes are mentioned hereafter.

  • Sesame (Organic cafe and juice bar)
  • Richard Bakery and Cafe
  • Epicerie du Midi
  • Tête à Thé


Breweries

The people in this region do like their spirits and warm beers, and you would find many bars to go to. In terms of breweries though, there are very few available in the valley. Besides that, you can visit the bars and drink with your companions- those traveling with you and the locals you befriend.

The following are the notable breweries in Chamonix.

  • Big Mountain Bar
  • Micro-Brasserie de Chamonix
  • Birrificio B63
  • Le Bec Jaune


Activities

As a resort town in the mountainous region of France, Chamonix is a good place to travel to for enjoying multiple winter activities. For beginners and high-level adventure junkies, options like skiing, hiking, cable car rides, mountain biking, and so much more are available. In fact, you would not lack in activity choices whether it is summer or winter.


Yoga and Retreats

You can go for a yoga retreat in Chamonix, and enjoy other activities at the same time. Some of the relaxing activities you would get the chance for include skiing and hiking, besides the regular yoga sessions.


Accommodation

While traveling on a budget, you would have to think about the living opportunities in the city for sure. Luckily, there are multiple affordable, comfortable, and eco-friendly options you would find in Chamonix besides the luxurious resorts. These options are mentioned hereafter.


Green Hotels

Green hotels are more eco-friendly than regular hotels; the staff makes sure that the rooms are clean, use recyclable items, efficient electricity usage, etc. Some of these places even have pools and well-maintained gardens for guests. Following are notable green hotels in Chamonix.

  • Grand Hotel des Alpes
  • Hotel de l'Avre
  • Auberge du Manoir


Hostels and Guest Houses

When you are on a budget trip, staying in hostels or guest houses is more affordable than hotels. In Chamonix, you would find the following good options.

  • Vert Lodge Chamonix
  • Chamonix Lodge
  • Chalet-Gite Chamoniard Volant Hostel Chamonix


Apartments

People who are planning on staying in Chamonix for a longer period, for work or studies, can rent apartments. This is more cost-effective than living in hotels and would give you the chance to interact with more locals as well.


Couchsurfing

When you travel to Chamonix, you can opt for Couchsurfing as an accommodation plan if you have a limited budget. For this, you would find multiple sites online that connect travelers with families in Chamonix who allow home-stay. However, in this concern, you should depend mainly on reliable websites and read through the reviews, for safety purposes.


Camping

For those interested in camping, Chamonix does offer good camping grounds within its territory. You can go there during the summer months, and enjoy the breathtaking views all around while having a fun time with your companions. Some of the camping sites in this region are mentioned below.

  • Camping Les Marmottes
  • Camping Les Arolles
  • Camping Les Deux Glaciers
  • Camping Les Cimes
  • Camping de la Mer de Glace


How to Get There

People interested in skiing head to the winter ski resort town of Chamonix occasionally. As for those who are interested in the sport, the gorgeous view of Mont Blanc does catch their attention. Therefore, with so much interest available in the spot itself, it is safe to say that there are multiple routes to the city as well. Depending on where you are traveling from, you can choose the mode of transport that best works for you. The following sub-parts are the detailed information regarding each potential transport type you can avail of.


Air

The closest air terminal to Chamonix is the Geneva airport, which is around 88 km away from the ski resort. A lot of large airlines and low-cost ones like Easy Jet travel to this location; so, it is not hard to go to Chamonix via the air route. Some of the common locations it connects to are the Middle East, United States, and some Asian countries. Of course, local flights from other French cities are also possible to this location.

From the airport, you would have to hire a car service to the resort town of Chamonix. Here, it is best to get proper instructions and information about the rentals and fee structure beforehand.


Bus

Unfortunately, there is no bus service available from far away areas to Chamonix. However, some urban lines are available that connect the town to nearby cities. This is the only bus-related transport possibility into the city and is not the best choice for far-away travelers.


Train

The main railway line that moves through the resort town of Chamonix is the meter-gauge St. Gervais-Vallorcine Line. This runs under the control of the SNCF. Besides that, you can take a Rhône-Alpes TER train from the St. Gervais station close by.

As for the railway station, the one in Chamonix is called the Chamonix-Mont Blanc Railway station.

From Vallorcine, the line extends through Switzerland and connects to the SBB route line at Martigny. This train network is called the Mont Blanc Express, and the timelines for railways at the two sections are accurately synced. You can take one from Massif to the areas like Martigny, Argentière, and St. Gervais-les-Bains. Moreover, you can request the train to stop at stations like Trétien, Fumeaux, Médettaz, Joux, Taconnaz, Vaudagne, Moussoux, Châtelard-Valais, and Viaduc Sainte-Marie.

Plus, the Montenvers Railway connects Chamonix to the tourist spot of the same name. It is linked with the St. Gervais-Vallorcine Line and connects to the higher and medium-range mountain peaks in the area.


Hitchhiking

In terms of highways, the main one is the French RN 205, or Route Nationale 205 (also called the white route or Route Blanche, for the uninitiated). This roadway extends from the French Autoroute 40 or A40. The latter ends at a village in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains named La Feyat. One of the notable locations here is the Mont Blanc Tunnel, which connects Chamonix with Courmayeur, Italy.

Besides that, there is the roadway of RN 506A, which is now an extension of RN 205. This connects the town to Switzerland. So, if you are planning to hitchhike, you can do so from these spots. However, it is better to opt for this choice only if absolutely necessary when you are traveling alone.


Others

Since this area is located at higher altitude areas, there are no sea routes available to the resort town. While you can hitchhike, the best transport option via the road system is renting cars. You can rent cars inside the town as well, for a tour around the region and surrounding cities. Of course, if you are traveling during the winter months, make sure to use snow tires and chains for protection from slippery roads.


Moving Around

There are several available routes and modes of transport after you settle into the resort region. While renting a car is an easier option, there are other popular public and private transport types available at this location as well. Some of them are detailed hereafter.


Walk

Without a doubt, when you are in the picturesque location of Chamonix, one thing that would help you enjoy the views all around is walking. The town is well-structured and you can roam around the region marveling at the local lifestyle. Plus, you can go hiking through the many hiking trails around this region, especially in the summer months.


Bicycle

Besides the main railway system, the town of Chamonix also has a tram line. In fact, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc (TMB) or Mont Blanc Tramway is one of the last operational mountain rack-rail trains in France. The line begins at Saint-Gervais, goes via Le Feyat and Les Houches and ends at Nid d'Aigle. On the way, travelers sitting inside the tram can view the gorgeous natural views like small mountain lakes and meadows.

As for a metro system, given its high altitude location, this is not available in Chamonix.


Electronic Vehicles

Speaking of electric vehicles, it is important to mention the cable cars that carry the travelers from the peak vantage points. Indeed, this is essentially the main transport type in this town, especially for most of the people visiting this region for skiing.

The region has one of the highest and most used cable car networks in the world. It connects the town of Chamonix to the Aiguille du Midi summit at 3842 m. Originally, it was built back in 1920 and has undergone many modifications throughout the years. The currently operational one was last upgraded in 2008. On another side, Chamonix is connected with the Planpraz peak, which is further linked with the Le Brevent summit at 2525 m.


Public Bus

In terms of public transport, the main notable one is the bus system in this town. In fact, this is the most common type of transport system available, in an effort to safeguard the environment. Also, with the mind of protecting the environment, an initiative is currently in operation for hybrid buses in the region. These are safer compared to the diesel buses and the carbon dioxide emission is expected to get lower per bus by 26 tonnes annually.

Indeed, there is a free shuttle available here as well called the Le Mullet, which seats around 19 people. Not only are they completely electronically-operated, but they also include recyclable batteries. This allows for better energy conservation and less harmful gas emission in the locale. It mainly travels through the downtown locations in Chamonix. Besides that, you can avail yourself of the public transportation system that stretches throughout the city. Of course, the main payment mode you can use is not the regular card or cash here, but a ViaCham card.

A good thing about this card is that you can access different areas and pay there using it, like the ski slopes, museums, and some of the communal sports centers. Besides that, you can also opt for the guest cards from the accommodation you choose. Some of them offer such cards to their guests, which is useful for using in the SNCF trains and valley buses, without much hassle.


Tram, Train and Subway

In terms of biking, there are various routes available in Chamonix for mountain biking. You can try this out for a more eco-friendly tour of the area and marvel at the gorgeous views. However, the bike trails are comparatively steeper than most city areas; so, mostly the experienced riders would have the best experience. You can go to the ski lifts in the midst of the Le Tour and try out the downhill mountain biking activity as well. Some of the common ski areas where you should take a ski lift include Me Prarion, Col de Balme, Lognan, Bellevue, and Le Brévent.

Some of the best trails you can try out include the following.

  • Le Planet- Le Tour
  • Chamonix-La Norvège-Les Tines
  • Col de Voza-Saint-Gervais
  • The Sentier des Diligences trail
  • Le Lavancher-Les Chosalets
  • Prarion-Les Houches descent (for downward mountain biking)


Sustainable Shopping

For people who are leading an eco-friendly lifestyle and want to continue doing so during their travels, sustainable shopping is an important consideration. In Chamonix, this is available well; the local community and government contribute a lot to keep the natural landscape and thereby the town clean, environmentally protected, and fresh. Thus, you would find good spots to shop in this town with items made of safe and clean materials and a wholesome town-run economy.


Food Markets

While you can visit the restaurants in Chamonix, if you are living in the region, that is not the best option for an everyday routine. To cook healthy food at home, you can go to the local food markets in the area and you would surely find lots of fresh produce on sale. They open around 7:30 in the morning and sell multiple types of items besides the food ingredients. Nevertheless, you should surely visit the main Chamonix marketplace in Place du Mont Blanc. The sellers here offer amazing Italian ingredients and other fresh items like charcuterie and regional cheese.

Some of the best food markets to go to in Chamonix are mentioned hereafter.

  • Le Pain de Chibon
  • Place du Mont Blanc
  • Market on Vallorcine (open on Saturdays only)


Flea Markets

A lot of people, when touring another land, are drawn towards the antique stores and items. In this concern, flea markets are a common area to consider in terms of shopping, and Chamonix does have many worthy spots. Some areas include stands with traditional homeware, collector's items, books, art, and Alpine furniture displayed for the visitors. Certainly, for shoppers, the flea markets in Chamonix are worth checking out for multiple usable items.

The following are a few of the best areas to go to in and around Chamonix when it comes to flea market shopping.

  • Traditional French Brocante Sale at Place de l'Eglise
  • Brocante La Vie
  • Boutique Butterfly
  • La Trace


Second Hand Stores

In terms of second-hand stores, there are not a lot of options available in the region of a Chamonix. For the budget-conscious people, these would be slightly hard to look for, but you would come across many sales in certain areas. Indeed, the locals organize cost-effective sales, though not everyone gets notifications of these readily. However, you can ask the locals or hotel officials about what kind of sales or budget-friendly shopping options are available nearby.

The following are some of the notable options for second-hand stores in or near Chamonix.

  • Emmaüs
  • Armée du Salut Brocante
  • Brocanteur Emmaüs
  • The Vintage Shop
  • Bazar San Frontière
  • Affaires de Goût
  • GM Boutique


Eco-Fashion

For environmental-conscious travelers, eco-friendly items and clothes are also important things to think about. In most aspects, Chamonix does follow an eco-friendly blueprint when it comes to the available activities, surroundings, and public transport systems. As for fashion, multiple stores and outlets sell multiple interesting and fashionable clothing options. However, selling clothes or jewelry that are made of eco-friendly materials is not common in Chamonix.

Yet, you would find some good spots to go to for affordable fashion options instead of the regular costly branded stores. Granted, most of the shops selling winter garbs or ski products belong to branded sports-gear companies. This is something you would have to consider when planning the budget of the trip. Regardless of that, some of the stores you can go to would offer sales on specified dates and offer affordable items.

Plus, going to the local stores is a manner of supporting the local community, so you can try such shops as well. The following are some good locations where you can drop by.

  • Quechua
  • Echo Base
  • Ravenel General Store
  • Snell Sports


Recycling

Chamonix has a central point in the town area for recycling and waste disposal. Besides that, you would find 'moloks' or giant recycling bins all around the town at intervals for bottle and packaging disposal.


Waste

In terms of waste disposal, the city of Chamonix is very particular and the locals follow the rules well. Thus, you would notice a very clean and well-put-together town space and surrounding natural areas when you visit the region.

In terms of green waste disposal, the people at Chamonix transport them all to the dump. People are not allowed to burn their disposable waste outdoors. In fact, those who do would have to pay a fine of £450. Indeed, this is very safe and sustainable and it protects the environment all around. Also, the residents stick to composting their wastes in communal compost bins as well.


Work and Study Abroad

Foreign visitors can opt for jobs and study opportunities in this valley. As for work opportunities, the most offers are available in the chalets, hotels, overseas offices, ski instructors, and restaurants.


Exchange Student

Chamonix offers study programs to foreign exchange students in terms of learning French and other vocational courses. However, the choices are limited. Two programs are mentioned below.

  • Nursing and Pre-Med Traveling Summer Program in Europe
  • USAC FRANCE: Lyon - French Language and European Studies


Au Pair

Foreigners can opt for the au pair jobs that the French families advertise through online sites. As an au pair, you would have to take care of the children of a local Chamoniard family and see to their education, while getting lodgings and food in return.


Volunteering

When you stay in Chamonix, you can opt for volunteering practices in sports events, mountain rescues, building assistants, gardening, etc. Also, you can volunteer for the cleaning up initiatives that are organized occasionally for the glaciers and ski slopes.


See Also