Climbing, culture, cuisine--The French Alps has it all. And I'm getting set to again share all that it offers this Summer 2024.
Chamonix is "The Birthplace of Alpinism", a town nestled in the valley between the Aiguilles Rouges and Mont Blanc Ranges. The Mont Blanc Range offers stellar granite peaks and ridgelines that soar out from vast glaciers. Mixed climbing and alpine rock options abound. The Aiguilles Rouge Range is the lesser-known neighbor--but in any other place it would be the main attraction, offering almost endless alpine rock options. And this array of elevations means that there's always some kind of climbing to be had, regardless of the weather.
What really makes Chamonix unique in the world is the ease of alpine access it offers. Glaciers, big walls, mixed climbs, and needle thin summits--all of this terrain can be accessed within minutes from town. You can be drink an espresso with your croissant at a cafe on the cobblestone streets of the town center, walk five minutes to the Aiguille du Midi telecabine, and then be launching out across a glacial ridge 20 minutes later. And, when tackling bigger objectives, we often base out of comfortably-equipped high mountain huts--most of which provide delicious dinners.
One thing that really adds to the appeal of Chamonix is the ease with which you can combine family vacation time with your climbing. That's because there really is something for everyone here. The alpine hiking scenery is unsurpassed and easy to access. For example, straight from the town center, an antique train takes you to a historic hotel high above Chamonix where you can walk to down to the Mer de Glace Glacier and Ice Cave--and if your family/friends are inclined, some glacial ice climbing can certainly be added in. The Aiguille du Midi Gondola is an engineering marvel and the top station—12,000' high--has a variety of museum areas to explore--not to mention the views across the glacier and into Italy. And the north side of town is bounded by the Aiguilles Rouges (Red Needles) mountain range, with a seemingly endless web of gorgeous alpine hiking trails, all accessed via lift. And those interested in more cosmopolitan things will find an ample selection of elegant and artful shops in Chamonix. And Geneva (Switzerland) and Courmayer (Italy) are just a bit over an hour's drive away, each providing both an interesting immersion into another culture and a vast selection of boutiques, museums, scenic, and historic sites to explore.
I'm looking forward to sharing Chamonix with climbers in Summer 2024. Climbers will certainly enjoy this epicenter for alpinism and their families and traveling companions no doubt will enjoy a place that offers so much else. Do be in touch to experience it all!