Weekend trip to Chamonix
DAY 1 : Bonjour Chamonix!
☕️ Morning
- Breakfast: Start your day with some freshly baked pastries and coffee at this beloved local spot. My pick is:
Pastry House Richard
@maylis
This bakery is all about artisan tradition, serving up fresh breads, flaky croissants, and delectable pastries made with love. They're famous for their "Bugnes," a must-try regional donut, and reviewers rave about the consistent quality. Soak up the charming atmosphere and grab a coffee or tea for a delightful French breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
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- Local Market & Village: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Saturday market. Stock up on local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Spend some time walking around the charming streets of Chamonix.
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🏔️ Afternoon
- Hiking
Aiguille du Midi: This is a must! Take the cable car up to 3,842 meters (yikes!) and witness breathtaking panoramas of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks.
Continue with a trip to the top of the Brévent or Flégère. Both cable cars offer stunning panoramic vistas, as well as access to hiking trails, restaurants, and other activities.
The Brévent cable car takes you to an altitude of 2,525 meters (8,284 feet), offering unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles de Chamonix, and the Arve Valley. From the top, you can also hike to the summit of the Brévent (2,552 meters), or enjoy a meal at one of the two restaurants.
- Apres-Ski Time (Even if you didn't Ski): Head back to town and soak in the lively après-ski scene. Grab a local beer and relax !
🌄 Evening
- Tonight, treat yourself to a traditional Savoyard meal at a cozy restaurant. Think rich cheese fondue, melt-in-your-mouth tartiflette (potato gratin with cheese and cured meats), and hearty stews. My pic is:
La Calèche
@maylis
Seeking a taste of Savoyard tradition with a cozy ambience? La Calèche Chamonix is your spot. This family-run restaurant, established in 1946, transports you back in time. Imagine a rustic setting adorned with vintage skis, cowbells, and old photos, all setting the stage for a hearty and delicious meal. They specialize in Savoyard classics like cheese fondue, raclette, and tartiflette, perfect for warming you up after a day in the mountains. Plus, with over 250 wines on their list, you're sure to find the perfect pairing for your meal.
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DAY 2: Adventure and Relaxation
☕️ Morning
- Breakfast: Start strong with a buttery croissant and a steaming cup of coffee at a local cafe. My pick? Aux Petits Gourmands for their legendary pastries and charming atmosphere.
Aux Petits Gourmands
@maylis
Aux Petits Gourmands is a great bakery for delicious pastries. They've been around since 1987 and have all the classics you'd expect, like croissants and cakes. They're also known for their Dacquoise, a special pastry. It's a good spot to grab a coffee and a sweet treat.
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- Take the train du Montenvers & explore the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice), a massive glacier that's been around for millennia. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the area's geology and history.
🏔️ Afternoon
- Lunch: Located in the heart of nature, this restaurant offers delightful cuisine with spectacular views. It's a perfect spot to relax after your morning adventure.
La Cabane Des Praz
@maylis
If you're seeking a delightful culinary experience in Chamonix, consider La Cabane des Praz. This charming restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, blending traditional alpine style with contemporary design elements. Their menu showcases French cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Most notably, La Cabane des Praz boasts a magnificent terrace with breathtaking vistas of Mont Blanc. This picturesque setting elevates any meal, making it ideal for a romantic occasion, a celebratory gathering, or a memorable lunch break amidst the beauty of the French Alps.
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- SPA : Spend the rest of your day relaxing while you enjoy the breathtaking view over the mountains.
QC Terme Chamonix
@maylis
If you’re looking for the ultimate relaxation experience, QC Terme Chamonix is by far the best spa I’ve ever been to! Nestled in the heart of Chamonix, this spa offers such a stunning view of the mountains that you'll feel like you're in a postcard.
The spa boasts a variety of unique rooms designed for ultimate relaxation, numerous basins, and an array of soothing activities. Each space is crafted to provide a unique sensory experience. And if you're a foodie like me, you'll love their spa + restaurant package, which combines world-class relaxation with delicious cuisine.
If you’re planning a trip to Chamonix, this place is a must-visit!
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🌄 Evening
- Diner: Have one last typical meal at Le Monchu !
Le Monchu
@maylis
Le Monchu is a cozy and inviting restaurant nestled in the heart of Chamonix. Known for its warm ambiance and excellent French cuisine, it offers a delightful dining experience for locals and visitors alike. The menu features a variety of dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the flavors of the region.
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- Last-minute Shopping: Spend your remaining time picking up any last-minute souvenirs or simply enjoying the ambiance of Chamonix one last time.
- Breakfast at Moody Coffee Roasters: Start your day with a great coffee and a light breakfast at this trendy café
- White-water Rafting: Get your adrenaline pumping with a white-water rafting adventure on the Arve River.
- Paragliding: Soar above the valley and experience the thrill of paragliding with a breathtaking view.
This itinerary is just a taste of what Chamonix has to offer. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the magic of the French Alps!
Merci, and see you in Chamonix!❤️
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