Eat, Stay, Play: Chamonix

Rolling into Chamonix feels like stepping straight into a postcard. Snow-dusted peaks, charming chalets, and more fondue than you could possibly eat—part adrenaline rush, part cozy indulgence. One minute you’re on a glacier, the next you’re soaking in a spa with Mont Blanc views. Not a bad way to do the mountains.

EAT

Le Monchu, serves up delicious, bubbling pots of cheese fondue alongside charcuterie, bread, and a mountain of potatoes. The faux fur blankets and heaters make even the patio comfortable on chilly nights. If you’re fondue-obsessed, also make time for La Fine Bouche, which offers creative spins on the classic with local ingredients.

Burger Poco Loco is a truly can’t miss spot… and you can spot it by the large sign out front that reads simply BURGERS AND CREPES. The burgers are delicious and the small tavern vibe with seating upstairs is so warm and endearing. Similarly, Cool Cats serves up delicious hot dogs with a plethora of unusual topping combinations and ample cocktails that you’ll want to check out.

If you’re looking for something healthy and nourishing, look no further than Arctic Juice and Cafe. They serve up delicious smoothies and juices, lattes and cold brew, and bowls and sandwiches, plus desserts. We ate there three times in as many days. 

Josephine looks delicious all around, but if you can’t stay for dinner, make time for the pastries and desserts.

STAY

For families, there really is no better spot than Big Sky. It has an extra large indoor pool, sauna, and small gym, plus a large game room with foosball, arcade games and other things for kids. The lobby area is very loungy with multiple seating arrangements and vibey seventies decor.

For a more elevated experience, check into Hotel Mont Blanc.

PLAY

Start your adventure aboard the charming, red Montenvers Railway to Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier. Explore inside the glittering ice cave and take in panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif.

For a full Mont Blanc experience, hop on the Aiguille du Midi gondola to the top of the peak—if the views don’t take your breath away, the thrill of the ride will. On the way back down, stop midway for a hike to Lac Bleu, a sparkling alpine lake that feels straight out of a fairy tale.

Back in town, families will love the nostalgic rides, trampolines, alpine slide, and mini-golf at Planards Amusement Park. Another day, head to Merlet Animal Park in nearby Les Houches to spot ibex, chamois, and marmots in their natural habitat. Trails abound for hikers of all levels, from gentle valley strolls to more ambitious routes with jaw-dropping views.

And of course, don’t skip an afternoon or evening at QC Terme Spa. Between the thermal baths, saunas, and sweeping alpine scenery, it’s the ultimate Chamonix indulgence.