Chamonix and Les Houches are both exceptional ski resorts nestled within the stunning Mont Blanc region, but each offers a distinctly different experience. Chamonix, renowned globally for its challenging terrain and vibrant town, contrasts with the serene, family-friendly charm of Les Houches. This guide will help you decide which resort suits your skiing style, budget, and group type best.
| Feature | Chamonix | Les Houches |
|---|---|---|
| Base elevation | 1,040 m (3,412 ft) | 950 m (3,116 ft) |
| Highest lift | 3,842 m (12,604 ft) | 1,900 m (6,233 ft |
| Total piste km | 119 km (74 mi) | 55 km (34 mi) |
| Best for | Advanced skiers, couples, nightlife | Families, beginners, intermediates |
| Village atmosphere | Vibrant, bustling town | Quiet, traditional alpine village |
| Accommodation | Hotels, chalets, apartments | Chalets, apartments, budget-friendly |
| Après-ski scene | Lively bars and clubs | Relaxed pubs and cosy bars |
Chamonix boasts five distinct ski sectors, including the legendary Vallée Blanche and steep runs at Grands Montets, ideal for advanced skiers and off-piste enthusiasts. Beginners can access gentle slopes at Les Planards and Les Chosalets. Les Houches, on the other hand, offers sheltered tree-lined pistes ideal for intermediates and beginners. The famous La Verte des Houches World Cup downhill run provides advanced skiers with a thrilling challenge.
Check out detailed piste maps: Chamonix piste map and Les Houches piste map
Chamonix is lively and vibrant, blending traditional Alpine charm with bustling nightlife and numerous shopping options. Accommodation varies widely from luxury hotels to comfortable apartments. Les Houches provides a peaceful village atmosphere with traditional Savoyard architecture, cosy chalets, family-run hotels, and apartments, offering excellent value and quiet relaxation.
Explore accommodation options: Chamonix accommodation and Les Houches accommodation
Chamonix's après-ski scene is energetic, featuring lively bars like Chambre Neuf and Elevation 1904. Its dining scene is extensive, from hearty Savoyard dishes at La Caleche to Michelin-starred experiences at Albert 1er. Les Houches, while quieter, offers charming venues like Kitsch Inn and Slalom Bar, ideal for relaxing evenings. Restaurants like Marmotte and Basilic offer affordable and tasty local dishes.
Les Houches is especially welcoming to families and beginners, with well-maintained beginner zones at Le Tourchet and Prarion. Ski schools are conveniently located, and childcare facilities are excellent. Chamonix, although more advanced, also provides suitable beginner areas such as Les Planards and nursery slopes for children. However, Les Houches offers a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Chamonix clearly leads in terms of challenging terrain, with steep slopes, high-altitude off-piste opportunities, and legendary runs like Vallée Blanche. Snowboarders will appreciate multiple snow parks including Grands Montets Snowpark. Les Houches provides fewer advanced runs but features the exhilarating World Cup downhill course, La Verte des Houches, and sheltered off-piste terrain suited for snowy conditions.
Both resorts offer diverse non-ski activities. Chamonix excels in high-adrenaline options such as paragliding, ice climbing, and snowmobiling, complemented by indoor facilities like climbing gyms and cinemas. Les Houches offers family-oriented activities like dog sledding, farm visits, and scenic helicopter tours around Mont Blanc, ensuring variety beyond the slopes.
Les Houches is more conveniently located, just 1 hr 5 min from Geneva Airport. Chamonix, slightly farther at approximately 2 hrs from Geneva, offers frequent shuttle services and easy train connections. Both resorts are accessible from Chambéry, Lyon, and Grenoble airports, though Les Houches consistently offers shorter transfer times.
Chamonix tends to be pricier, especially regarding accommodation and dining, due to its popularity and international appeal. Les Houches offers better value overall, with affordable accommodation, restaurants, and family-friendly amenities. Ski pass prices are comparable, with both included under the Mont Blanc Unlimited pass.
Explore our ski deals: Chamonix deals and Les Houches deals
