Chamonix public transport is very good, with free shuttle buses between all the lifts, winter and summer, and an excellent railway service.
Shuttle Buses in Chamonix
Free shuttle buses run regularly through Les Praz – catch them either at the stop near the chalet (2 minutes walk, but less frequent) or at the Flegere lift (5-10 minutes walk, more frequent). Our central location in the valley makes it easy to get to Chamonix, Le Tour, Les Grands Montets, Les Houches and various other destinations.
Much improved in recent years, they now run every 10 minutes at busy times. There are also two night buses – check the timetable but normally it’s one at 10pm and one at midnight. More info on routes here.
In winter, there is also a daily bus to Courmayeur, returning in the evening. It’s free for Mont Blanc Unlimited pass holders of 2 days or more. Reservations must be made by 5:00p.m. the day before on +33 (0)450 530 115, or in person at their office by the railway station.
Trains
The train is much the most pleasant way to get around the valley. It’s free with your carte d’hôte (provided by us) between Servoz and Vallorcine, and stops in Les Praz, around a 5 minute walk from the chalet. It’s very punctual but there can be long gaps between trains so check on www.sbb.ch before you set out, and take one with you if you plan to return on it. Even if you have a car, it’s often preferable as it allows for flexibility – for instance summer walks. Excellent for Les Grands Montets and Vallorcine – not recommended at all for Les Houches or Le Tour – take the bus, or access Le Tour from Vallorcine.
Evening public transport in Chamonix
The last train runs at around 8 pm. In winter, night buses (usually at 10pm and midnight) are a good way to get back from a evening out in Chamonix town centre, though it is also very pleasant to walk back to the chalet. At night we recommend you only walk along the very quiet and well-lit road beside the railway (full directions and maps will be sent on booking).
Taxis
Taxis are ridiculously expensive in Chamonix (30 euros to go the 2 km from Chamonix to the chalet!) but are quite readily available and handy when the weather is very cold. They can be called from any bar or restaurant, but it’s best to book in advance at busy times. There’s a list of numbers at the chalet. Some transfer companies offer this too, and this is much more affordable for a big group – book well in advance. Try Haute Transfers for this.
Bikes
In summer, bikes are a great way to get around, as the valley floor is almost flat in the central area around us. Bikes can be readily hired in many places locally.
Walking
It’s very nice to walk between the chalet and Chamonix, it’s almost level and there are lots of lovely paths. Just keep heading towards Mont Blanc, stay on the level, and you’ll be in Chamonix in 20-25 minutes. It’s 2km from us to the Place du Mont-Blanc market square in Chamonix.
