The top 5 alpine experiences in Chamonix
Subhash MotwaniSubhash Motwani|Guest Contributor|THINGS TO DO, CHAMONIX Updated : May 15, 2014, 12.12 PM IST
Subhash Motwani
Subhash Motwani has travelled over 35 countries and is the founder of Luxury Vignettes which promotes experiential travel and encourages sharing of memorable experiences through tourism exchanges.
Skiing and snowboarding on Mont Blanc
Chamonix is a legend in the world of skiing since the first Winter Olympics were held here in 1924. It has the world’s largest ski area of 600 kms. You need not be an expert in skiing as it is ski-friendly for everyone, making it easily accessible to prepared runs by both amateurs as well as expert skiers. La Vormaine in the Balme area is just perfect for the first attempt at skiing or snowboarding.
Alpine cable car experience, Aiguille du Midi
The only journey like it in the world! The 20-minute-long Aiguille du midi cable car ride takes you to a scenic summit. Perched at a height of 3842 m, it offers a 360-degree-view of the French Alps. Key Italian and Swiss peaks such as Mont-Blanc can also be seen on clear days. The latest innovation for fearless adventure seekers is the “Pas Dans Le Vide”, a 2.50 m glass cage that stands above a 1000 m precipice for a dynamic experience.
Yoga and hiking
Chamonix is the perfect place to connect with mind, body and nature. To discover the magnificence of the glaciers, the valley offers 350 km of well-maintained hiking trails with 160 itineraries offering walks suitable to all. Yoga Rando combines the practice of yoga with hiking for a complete blend of body and spirit. If you enjoy the mountains, yoga and organic food then this is the place for you. Chamonix also hosts the Yoga Festival in July every year.
The Bossons glacier chair lift
The chair lift brings you up to 1,400 m to the environs of the Bossons glacier, with an outstanding view of the longest icefall in Europe. This is also the starting point for the first ascension of Mont-Blanc at 4810 m. From its terrace, there is a fabulous view of the glacier and the ice-pinnacles of Plateau des Pyramids.
Visit a spa
Calm down after your adrenaline rush by soaking in a spa and rejuvenating the mind, body and soul. At the end of a great adventure and physical exertion, retreat into one of Chamonix's world class spas. Choose from the Deep Nature Spa by Algotherm, Spa Vinotherapie by Caudalie, Serenity Spa or Nuxe Spa and Reflexology.
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