From the peaceful authenticity of Les Contamines-Montjoie to the world-renowned slopes of Chamonix, these two ski resorts offer very different alpine experiences under the shadow of Mont Blanc. Chamonix is a magnet for thrill-seekers, celebrated for its extreme terrain, energetic après-ski, and cosmopolitan charm. Les Contamines, by contrast, invites visitors to unwind amid tranquil village life, scenic pistes, and family-friendly slopes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the terrain, snow conditions, atmosphere, and more to help you decide which destination best fits your ski holiday plans.
Les Contamines Montjoie or Chamonix?
- Quick comparison table
- Ski area & terrain
- Snow fall history
- Accommodation & village atmosphere
- Après-ski & dining
- Families & beginners
- Advanced skiers & snowboarders
- Activities beyond skiing
- Accessibility & transfers
- Cost and value for money
- Which one should you choose?
Quick comparison table
| Feature | Les Contamines Montjoie | Chamonix |
|---|
| Base elevation | 1,160 m (3,806 ft) | 1,030 m (3,379 ft) |
| Highest lift | 2,500 m (8,202 ft) | 3,842 m (12,604 ft) |
| Total piste (km/mi) | 120 km (74.5 mi) | 119 km (74 mi) |
| Best for | Families, scenery lovers | Advanced skiers, thrill seekers |
| Village atmosphere | Traditional and tranquil | Lively alpine town |
| Accommodation | Chalets, apartments, small hotels | Full range: hotels, chalets, apartments |
| Après-ski scene | Quiet and cosy | Lively and varied |
Ski area & terrain
- Les Contamines-Montjoie features 120 km (74.5 mi) of slopes spread across two valleys, blending forest-lined trails with panoramic mountain views. The ski area caters to all levels, from beginner slopes near the village to long reds in the Hauteluce sector. Black runs like Rebans and off-piste zones around Aiguille Croche challenge experts.
- Chamonix offers 119 km (74 mi) of pistes, but its reputation stems from high-altitude thrills and iconic terrain like Vallée Blanche and Grands Montets. Beginners stick to nursery zones like Les Planards, while intermediates cruise Brevent-Flégère. Off-piste terrain is unrivalled, attracting advanced skiers worldwide
Check out Les Contamines Montjoie piste map and Chamonix Mont-Blanc piste map
Snow fall history
| Month | Les Contamines Montjoie | Chamonix |
|---|
| December | 36 cm/14.2 in | 44 cm/17.3 in |
| January | 40 cm/15.7 in | 46 cm/18.1 in |
| February | 29 cm/11.4 in | 36 cm/14.2 in |
| March | 32 cm/12.6 in | 39 cm/15.3 in |
| April | 17 cm/6.7 in | 28 cm/11.0 in |
(ref: snow-forecast.com)
Accommodation & village atmosphere
- Les Contamines-Montjoie is a peaceful, rustic village dotted with traditional chalets and small hotels. It retains its rural charm with wooden farmhouses, quiet lanes, and horse-drawn sleighs, ideal for those seeking a slower pace and authentic Alpine vibes.
- Chamonix buzzes year-round. Its large town centre combines modern amenities with historic architecture, offering everything from hostels to luxury hotels. Expect lively squares, busy shops, and a cosmopolitan mix of adventurers.
Explore some accommodation options in Les Contamines and in Chamonix
Après-ski & dining
- Les Contamines keeps après-ski mellow. Cosy bars like Le Ty Breiz and Le Saxo offer drinks and mountain charm. Dining options are hearty and traditional, with standouts like L'O à la Bouche and Le Signal.
- Chamonix delivers the full après experience, with popular venues like Chambre Neuf and Elevation 1904. Dining ranges from authentic Savoyard fare at La Caleche to Michelin-starred experiences at Albert 1er.
Families & beginners
- Les Contamines-Montjoie is well-suited for families, with beginner slopes in the village and gentle greens higher up. The Galipette nursery and ski schools offer excellent childcare and tuition, and fun extras like Ludo Park keep young skiers entertained.
- Chamonix has quality nursery areas (Les Planards, Le Savoy), but the vast terrain can be daunting for first-timers. While families will find suitable services, Les Contamines feels more tailored for a relaxed family holiday.
Advanced skiers & snowboarders
- Les Contamines provides solid terrain for advanced skiers via black runs and hidden off-piste stashes. While not as extreme as Chamonix, it’s a rewarding challenge with fewer crowds.
- Chamonix is a mecca for expert skiers. Iconic descents like Vallée Blanche, glacier routes, and steep blacks at Grands Montets make it a bucket list destination. Freeride and backcountry terrain is among the best in Europe.
Activities beyond skiing
- Les Contamines-Montjoie offers scenic and family-friendly activities like snowshoeing, dog sledding, curling, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. You’ll also find paragliding, an ice rink, and a biathlon range.
- Chamonix adds adrenaline with ice climbing, mountaineering, and paragliding from Aiguille du Midi. It also features wellness centres, cultural tours, and a lively town centre for shopping and events.
Accessibility & transfers
- Les Contamines enjoys quicker access from Geneva (~1 hr 10 min), making it convenient for short stays.
- Chamonix’s transport links are excellent but transfer times are slightly longer (Geneva, and Chambéry ~2 hr) due to its deeper location in the valley.
Cost and value for money
- Les Contamines-Montjoie offers excellent value, with lower accommodation and dining costs. Lift passes are more affordable, and the quality-to-price ratio is appealing for families and couples.
- Chamonix is more expensive across the board, reflecting its international status and extensive infrastructure. However, for those seeking iconic descents and vibrant nightlife, it’s a justified investment
Explore our Les Contamines Montjoie deals and Chamonix deals
Which one should you choose?
- Choose Les Contamines Montjoie if you want peaceful village charm, accessible skiing for all levels, and a family-friendly atmosphere with traditional alpine character.
- Choose Chamonix if you're an advanced skier chasing steep descents, off-piste thrills, and a lively après-ski scene in one of the Alps' most iconic towns.
