Explore Chamonix: A Guide for Yoga Students
A curated guide to help you navigate Chamonix, from how to get here to where to eat, explore, and relax.
How to Get to Chamonix
By Plane
The closest international airport is Geneva Airport (GVA), located about 88 km (55 miles) from Chamonix.
From Geneva, you can reach Chamonix by:
- Shuttle services (Mountain Drop-offs, AlpyBus, Chamonix Valley Transfers).
- Car rental (Driving takes ~1h15 via the A40 motorway).
By Train
- Take the TGV (high-speed train) from Paris to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet.
- From there, transfer to the Mont Blanc Express, which offers a scenic ride to Chamonix.
- Train services also run from Geneva, Lyon, and other major cities.
By Car
- From France: Via the A40 (Autoroute Blanche).
- From Switzerland: Through Martigny → Col de la Forclaz → Col des Montets → Chamonix.
- From Italy: Via the Mont Blanc Tunnel, connecting Courmayeur to Chamonix.
Outdoor Activities in Chamonix
Chamonix is an outdoor paradise, with activities for all seasons:
Summer & Year-Round Activities
- Hiking & Trekking: Lac Blanc, Grand Balcon Nord, and Aiguillette des Posettes.
- Paragliding: Tandem flights for breathtaking aerial views.
- Rock Climbing: Many routes for all levels.
- Trail Running & Mountain Biking: Popular among endurance athletes.
Winter Activities
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Les Grands Montets, Le Brévent, and La Flégère.
- Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking: Explore the tranquil snow-covered trails.
- Ice Climbing & Glacier Walks: Discover the frozen beauty of Mont Blanc.
For guided excursions, visit Chamonix Tourism.
Healthy, Vegan, & Vegetarian Dining Options
Chamonix Restaurants
- Sesame Mont Blanc – Organic, plant-based cuisine blending Mediterranean and Asian influences.
70 Avenue Ravanel Le Rouge, Chamonix |Website - Arctic Juice & Café – Smoothies, fresh juices, and healthy breakfast/lunch options.
Casino Gallery, 74400 Chamonix - Green Gorilla Café – Specialty coffee, poké bowls, smoothie bowls, and açaí.
43 Galerie Alpina, Chamonix Wbsite - La Fabrica Italian cuisine with vegetarian options, including Focaccia and salads.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc - La Rose du Pont Authentic and generous cuisine in a cozy setting.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc | Tripadvis - Shouka, Cafe co-working, specialty coffees, homemade hot chocolates, and vegan-friendly treats, including plant-based milk options and delicious pastries. 206 Rue du Docteur Paccard, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Argentière Restaurants
- Thé Té à Thé – Cozy tea house with vegetarian-friendly snacks.
Argentière - Villy’s Bakery – Freshly baked goods, healthy treats, and coffee.
Argentière
Supermarkets in Chamonix
If you prefer to cook your own meals, here are some supermarkets in Chamonix:
- Super U 170 Avenue de l’Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix
- Carrefour Market 100 Place du Poilu, Chamonix
- Casino Shop 15 Rue Joseph Vallot, Chamonix
They all offer fresh produce, organic options, and plant-based foods.
Farmers Markets
Chamonix offers several markets where you can experience local produce and crafts:
Saturday Market in Chamonix:
- When: Every Saturday from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Where: Place du Mont-Blanc, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
- What to Expect: A variety of stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, breads, and other local products. Additionally, vendors offer clothing, tableware, and collectibles.
Argentière Market:
- When: Every Sunday between February 9 and March 16, from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM
- Where: Place du Village, Argentière
- What to Expect: Local products including, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, clothing, and natural beauty products.
Wellness & Relaxation in Chamonix
For post-adventure relaxation, explore these spas and massage centers:
- QC Terme Chamonix – Thermal baths, saunas, and relaxation spaces with stunning views.480 Promenade du Fori, Chamonix Website
- Cindy Bien Etre Chamonix Personalized massage therapies tailored to your needs. http://www.cindybien-etrechamonix.com. +33 6 66 25 92 72
- Naoki Hattori, Traditional Japanese Therapy. Shiatsu, Rolfing. wwwnaokihattori.com
- Le somment du bien-etre, Approche traditionnelle chinoise. Fanny Bellin. 06 71 73 81 28
- Chamonix Body Therapy. Susanna Walker. Rolfing Therapy. http://www.chamonixbodytherapy.com
- Chiropractique Chamonix. Tom Gramond. 04 50 55 96 28. 118 Rte des Pecles, 74400. Chamonix.
Bookings are recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Final Tips for First Time Visitors
Stay flexible. Weather in the mountains changes quickly—have backup plans.
Book activities and restaurants in advance during peak seasons.
Use public transport – The Chamonix valley has a great bus/train system for easy access.
