<p>A paradise for lovers of winter sports, Chamonix offers an array of activities to enjoy during your winter holiday</p>
Photo: OT_Chamonix_Mont-Blanc-Alexandre-Juillet

Top 5 Winter Activities in Chamonix

A paradise for lovers of winter sports, Chamonix offers an array of activities to enjoy during your winter holiday

Resort Guides
Published at: 7 Dec 2021
Last updated at: 9 Nov 2023

If skiing isn’t on the agenda, Chamonix has plenty of alternative activities to keep you entertained during your stay in the French Alps. From the exhilarating experience of ice climbing, to peaceful snowshoe sessions in the woods, here are our top 5 winter activities in Chamonix.

Alicia Bryan
Alicia Bryan
Dog sledding in Chamonix in winterPhoto: OT Vallee de Chamonix/A. Juillet

1. Dog Sledding

A historic form of transportation, dog sledding is fast becoming a popular winter sport and an activity for the whole family to enjoy. For dog lovers, this adventure is the perfect opportunity to witness what these dogs were bred to do.

Watch with excitement as the Alaskan Malamutes and Huskies take you through the woods and snowy terrain of Chamonix or, for more of a hands-on experience, why not learn how to mush and manage your very own group of dogs?

STAY: Chalet Le Moulin - perfect for large groups, this seven-bedroom chalet has an unbeatable view of Mont Blanc & ample space for entertaining.

Paragliding over Chamonix in winterPhoto: OT_Chamonix_Mont-Blanc-Celia-Margerard

2. Paragliding

Just 50 km west of Chamonix, Mieusey lays claim to the birth of paragliding in 1974. Today this hair-raising activity continues to grow in popularity with several paragliding schools in Chamonix on hand to help you fly high above the breathtaking valley below. With no experience needed, tandem flights are the most popular flights.

This form of paragliding allows you to sit back and relax during the flight as a fully qualified instructor takes you over the stunning landscape of the French Alps. For sporting enthusiasts, many companies also head to Mont Blanc to combine an alpine climb with a high-altitude flight.

STAY: Chalet Kea - a family-friendly chalet located a short stroll from the centre of Chamonix with an outdoor hot tub on the terrace.

Indoor ice skating in ChamonixPhoto: OT-Vallee-de-Chamonix-Salome-Abrial

3. Ice Skating

Located in the Richard Bozon Sports Centre, Chamonix has an Olympic-sized indoor ice rink, as well as an outdoor (26mx56m) rink. Open daily to the public, work on your hockey skills or enjoy a whirl around the ice rink in front of Mont Blanc before warming up with a hot chocolate.

During the peak season, visitors can also enjoy skating at night with special night skating sessions for the whole family.

STAY: Chalet Chouca - located just outside central Chamonix, this four-bedroom chalet is ideal for family ski holidays.

Ice climbing in winter inChamonixPhoto: OT_Chamonix_Mont-Blanc-Knowles-Stuart

4. Ice climbing

Famous for its ice falls, Chamonix has over 200 routes for all climbing levels. For beginners, the most popular spot to try ice climbing is in Argentière with some easy routes. Other popular spots for ice climbing include the Col des Montets and Le Tour.

For beginners and intermediates looking to improve their skills, several mountain guides run ice climbing courses so you can develop your skills with the safety of an experienced guide on hand to help. For those more advanced, three-day climbing courses will take you to some of the best and most challenging frozen waterfalls in Chamonix.

STAY: Chalet Infinity - after a day on the mountain, relax in this five-bedroom chalet's private spa complete with infinity pool, sauna & hammam.

winter snowshoeing in chamonixPhoto: OT_Chamonix-Mont-Blanc_David-Ravanel

5. Snowshoeing

A peaceful way for all ages to explore the beautiful nature of Chamonix, no experience is needed to relish this fun winter activity. With several stunning trails, mountain guides will take you safely to some of the most beautiful spots in the resort, spotting the tracks of chamois, deer and foxes along the way.

From a gentle stroll to a challenging hike, snowshoeing is a fun alternative to skiing. However, those spending the day on the slopes don’t have to miss out,as walks are available in the evening with a traditional meal in a mountain hut to finish.

STAY: Chalet Dalmore - this designer chalet boasts panoramic views and a stunning roof terrace.