Chamonix
Chamonix is in the Haute-Savoie region of France, dominated by Western Europe's highest peak, Mont Blanc. It is a cosmopolitan town with a wide international mix, sporting a real 'soul' and boasting 15,000 year-round residents.
People have been coming here for well over a century. It is a true mountain mecca, with a huge summer climbing/walking clientele, as well as the winter skiers and boarders.
"I need a drink..."
The town is full of great bars, cafes, restaurants and shops – perfect if you like to take things easy, gorge yourself on great grub or get stuck into liquid refreshment...
If you're fond of a tipple, our exhaustive research reveals you should follow us lot to the Chambre Neuf, our regular just opposite the station. With a great mix of locals and tourists, Brits and Swedes, young and old - it is in our expert view the best bar in Chamonix. And its apres-ski is legendary - get along between 5-7pm and dance on those tables!
For a spot of comparison and variety, head along to the MBC (Micro Brewery of Chamonix), Expedition or Privilege. The Lapin Agile is a great little wine bar, also with some nice Belgian beers available. While Grand Central is the best spot for a smoothie, bagel or cappucino. We can vouch for some of their smoothies' hangover curing capacities...
For a top feed, try Le Sarpe (our absolute favourite), Le Bistrot, Munchie, Goophy, Le Bivouac, L'Atmosphère, Panier aux 4 Saisons, Maison Carrier or the Eden.
To strut your funkiest stuff, head down to Le Garage or Le Choucas.
When you get peckish in the wee small hours, grab a French haute cuisine burger at Midnight Express, Poco Loco or Belouga...
And when you can take none of it any more, go home.
What else can I do?
And there are plenty of other facilities to keep you busy away from the ski slopes or golf course - a wide range of shops, a brilliant market on Saturday morning, swimming pools, tennis courts, squash courts, walks, bike paths, gyms, saunas, ice rinks…
One thing's for sure: you won't get bored.