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Chamonix must-sees in summer

First time in Chamonix? Here’s five things you really shouldn’t miss.

1. The Aiguille du Midi

Midi in summer
The Midi rising above the valley

The Midi just has to be the number one on this list. I never, ever get tired of going up there – just for a coffee or to cool down on a hot day. It’s unlike any other cable car in the world in its scale and beauty. This may be a slightly pointless tip – it’s not like the Midi needs any help from me, it’s one of France’s biggest attractions.

But it truly is unmissable.  If you haven’t been before I would allow at least half a day for it, to give yourself plenty of time to explore its many terraces. At peak times (most of July and August) it can be very VERY busy – try and get there before 9 a.m. to miss the queues, or alternatively go for a late afternoon.

Mont Blanc and climbers on the Arête des Cosmiques, seen from the Aiguille du Midi
Mont Blanc and climbers on the Arête des Cosmiques, seen from the Aiguille du Midi

If it’s running, don’t miss the Hellbronner Panoramique, which sails from the Midi, across the Glacier du Geant, for quite a different experience – silent, serene and spectacular.


The station at the other end in Italy is the magnificent new Skyway so stop in for an excellent espresso, a look over the velvet green valley and dramatic needle-sharp peaks of the Val d’Aosta and some fun Franco-Italian border photo-ops. Not many people go on this wonderful ride but I think it’s one of the best things the Midi has to offer and well worth the extra cost.  More about the Aiguille du Midi with photos and tips here

2. A high Alpine walk

Ibex against the Aiguilles
Ibex against the Aiguilles, from near Lac Blanc

Whether it’s strolling along the high, level balcony walks, with their wonderful panoramic views, drifting through the high meadows full of flowers, or the tougher but rewarding ascents like the pale green, snow-fringed Lac Blanc or the glacial amphitheatre of La Jonction, there is something for every level on Chamonix. Just walking at the valley floor level is beautiful, and the views that open up as you go higher are jaw-dropping. Have a look at our hiking pages for some favourites

3. The Montenvers Railway

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View over the Mer de Glace from just above Montenvers

The glossy red retro engines of the Montenvers railway chug up the mountainside to reach a point high above the Mer de Glace glacier, with a stunning view of the Dru and the Grandes Jorasses.

Note that throughout 2022-2025 there is major work being done at Montenvers, so check in with the Tourist office before going. 

The old Montenvers refuge has been given a chic hotel makeover with prices to match, but it’s undeniably a very special place to eat.  

The newer terrace restaurant jutting out over the glacier,  is reasonably priced and has a fantastic view. (Avoid the small cafe at the platform, it’s lousy).

The exhibitions on crystals and Alpine fauna are fun, but the best thing to do here is just wander around the trails and take in the unbelievable natural drama of the setting – you don’t have to go far to lose the crowds. You can walk across to the Midi on the Vallot Path (also know as the Grand Balcon Nord) – this is especially spectacular via Forbes Signal, above Montenvers (ask them to point the route out to you if you miss the sign)

4. Food

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Lunchtime ratatouille with goat cheese and wild mountain thyme crostini

One of the great joys of being in France is of course the food – French gastronomy hss been awarded UNESCO status! – and Chamonix has everything from double-Michelin-starred gastroparadise at the Albert Premier, to homely, cosy mountain huts. Most places in Chamonix are pretty good, but here’s some particular recommendations of mine.
Cremerie du Glacier – all about the croutes in 100% authentic mountain hut type setting. They have been serving them up here for nearly a century.
Casa Valerio – you know that when the Italians give pizza awards to the French, it must be really good. Friendly, local’s favourite, also does take-away.
L’Atmosphere – my favourite classic French restaurant…try and book one of the tables that hang out over the river.
Maison Carrier – Local food with upmarket influences, rustic and elegant simultaneously, always reliable. Arrive with an appetite as the pudding counter is rightly famous.
Mumma – new kid on the block, for when you need a break from the cheese. Absolutely top class Asian fusion food. Also has outdoor casual dining from Le Shack
You can get wonderful food from the Saturday Market – local, fresh and delicious, get a picnic from here and choose your spot!
Or for a super-deluxe picnic, let Mountain Gourmets set you up one of their Meals with Altitude

5. Paragliding

Parapente in front of Mont Blanc

Chamonix is one of the best places in the world for paragliding  (the French word is parapente), with its combination of easy launching, incredible scenery and reliable thermals. On any clear day, you’ll see dozens of the bright wings drifting high above the valley. Luckily, the fun is easily accessible to most people via a tandem flight, and this is something I’d highly recommend to anyone!

There are plenty of companies offering flights. I highly recommend Sean at www.fly-chamonix.com – very experienced, friendly and safe!  I’ve also been with Evolution 2 who were very good.

Done all these? Next up is a post on Chamonix’s hidden gems