5 Best places to stay in Chamonix

With its chic, utilitarian design, this trendy boutique hotel feels like it has been transported from the slopes of Scandinavia. But make no mistake, you’re right in the heart of France’s extreme skiing capital. Housed in a modest townhouse, some of the rooms are on the smaller side, but they are all perfectly comfortable and cozy.

Besides, guests spend most of their time in the charming lounge, where homemade cakes and hot drinks await after a day’s skiing, and in the hot tub. There’s no restaurant, but plenty of cafes, bars and eateries within strolling distance. Access to the Brévent slopes is via the Savoy ski lift, less than five minutes away on foot.

Centrally located – but with great views of the surrounding mountains – Le Hameau Albert 1er is a classic, century-old hotel with a rustic-style farmhouse and two bijoux chalets to stay in. It mixes traditional Alpine looks with contemporary exterior and interior styling to create a hip-but-relaxed mountain vibe.

Excellent dining options include a two-star Michelin restaurant and the more rustically styled La Maison Carrier farmhouse restaurant. Meanwhile the spa (which is open to the public as a day spa, too) features an indoor-outdoor pool with incredible views of Mont Blanc.

This is one of the most authentic hotels in the high Alps, with great style, killer views and an adventurous spirit.

Built in the 1880s to provide accommodation for mountaineers exploring Europe’s highest peaks, the building was recently modernized by high-end hotel company Maisons et Hotels Sibuet. Located at 1,913m, it’s tricky to reach – you have to go on foot (or skis), or catch a funicular railway from Chamonix (taking 20 minutes), which only runs in the daytime. This does mean, though, that guests have the refuge – and the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glistening blue Mer du Glace glacier – to themselves at all other times.

East- and west-facing terraces catch the sun throughout the day, and the plain but comfortable rooms look out onto the Chamonix valley way below.

The Eden’s quiet location in Les Praz is ideal for accessing Le Flegere lift – a few minutes’ walk away – and offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel belies its three-star rating with simple but comfortable rooms, a homely atmosphere and a very well-regarded restaurant.

There’s a simple, nature-focused, heart-of-the-mountains ambience about the place, helped by the regular exhibitions of mountain artwork. Two kilometres outside Chamonix’s centre, it’s easily reached by taxi, bus and train, making it a great location for keen and/or sporty skiers who don’t need to party every night, and mountain lovers, who will feel right at home amongst fellow aficionados.

Located close to the railway station and within easy walking distance of Chamonix centre, the Lykke also feels within touching distance of Mont Blanc and the spiky Aiguille du Midi cable car, which is just across the road.

One nice touch is that all rooms have a balcony with mountain views – for the best mountain panoramas go for one of the suites, which have views of Mont Blanc. A short, easy walk along the town’s main shopping streets takes you into the centre of Chamonix, with plenty of options for window shopping and coffee stops along the way.

It may not have the atmosphere of more traditional Alpine hotels, but if you’re looking to be mostly out and about from an affordable, central stay, this is the one.