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Les Houches
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Les Houches, Mont-Blanc
Village Height 950/1900m
Activities
Mountaineering & Mont-Blanc ascent, Glacier trekking
Rock climbing, Via ferrata
Mountain biking, Paragliding
Rafting, Hydrospeed, Canoraft, Kayak, Airboat, White Water Rafting. 350km of marked path walks, Glacier hiking, Mont-Blanc tours. Golf
Driving distance from Calais to Les Houches 552 miles or 7hrs30
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Resort Info
Les Houches
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At the entrance of the Chamonix valley and only 4km from its famous town, the pretty village of Les Houches is right under the impressive Mont-Blanc. It is a typical mountain village with a lovely church and old wooden Savoyard farmhouses around. There are a number of pleasant bars and good restaurants for quiet evenings out and buses run in and out of Chamonix all day.
Les Houches’ friendly relaxed atmosphere provides a great base for families. Les Houches is also ideal for those wishing to explore the rest of the legendary valley. World-renowned sites such as the stunning Aiguille du Midi, Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) can be easily accessed from Chamonix and its many cable cars, the scenic Montenvers train or the picturesque Mont-Blanc tramway.
Scope for activities and walks are endless - with 350km of walking area and many lifts operating throughout the summer. Market day in Les Houches is Monday.
Virtual Visit
View here for a 360 degree view of Les Houches
(hold down the left click of your mouse and drag left right up and down whilst still holding on the left click button to move 360 degree)
MULTIPASS MONT BLANC CARD
The Multipass Mont-Blanc chip card is the best way to enjoy many of the world renowned facilities in the Chamonix Valley. It gives you free access to all the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc facilities and will save you valuable time by avoiding ticket queues and extra reservation fees (eg for Aiguille du Midi). Facilities include the Aiguille du Midi (inc. booking fee of €2 + Free access to the top lift of Aiguille du Midi -instead of €3), Montenvers train to the Sea of Ice, Mont-Blanc Tramway, Flégère, Brévent, Balme, Grands Montets, Bossons lift and Prarion gondola in les Houches. You will also get discounts on the Chamonix tourist train and Courmayeur lifts in Italy. Pre-book with Peak Retreats. Prices from £48 per adult, £41 per child and £132 per family for 1 day. View here for full prices of MULTIPASS MONT BLANC.
Places of interest around Les Houches
· Chamonix: The world capital of mountaineering is only a few miles from Les Houches. Very cosmopolitan it boasts first rate leisure facilities and a huge range of shops and restaurants.
· L’Aiguille du Midi is reached by cable car from Chamonix. The views from Europe’s highest cable car station (3842m) are literally breathtaking. From there you can walk back to the famous ‘Mer de Glace’ with ease and catch Montenvers train back to town.
· Argentières’s cable car to Les Grands Montets glacier also offers the starting point for superb walking itineraries.
- Opening Dates
- Child Care
- Activities
- Apres Ski/Eating
- Access
- Resort News
- Other Amenities
Opening Dates
Les Houches is open from middle of June to end of August.
Child Care
Les Houches has acquired the Famille Plus label for its childcare facilities. Please click here to view more information on the Famille Plus label
Nursery and kids’ club in Les Houches MUNICIPAL DAY NURSERY 201, rue du Mont Blanc (village centre, next to the school complex). Age 3 months to 3 years. Opening hours Monday-Friday 8am-6pm. Subject to availability of places. Contact: 0033 4 50 54 48 19 HOLIDAY DAY NURSERY AND MUNICIPAL EVENTS ORGANISATION Themed weeks with lunch and snack Open Monday to Friday 8am-6pm for children aged 3-5, 5-8 and 9-11. Teens aged 12-18 for outdoor excursions and sports tournaments. Programme available at www.leshouches.com and in the separate "Children" guide. Contact: 0033 4 50 54 43 33 CHILDMINDERS AND BABY SITTERS List available from the tourist office 0033 4 50 55 50 62 Climbing Hall Les Trabets, Les Houches www.montblancescalade.com 1250m2 climbing hall with over 110 climbs for all levels. Open Mon-Fri from 2pm-10pm, Sats from 2pm-9pm and Sunddays + public holidays from 2pm-8pm. Open from 9am in bad weather. Rates: Adults from €13.00 Youths 13-16 from €9.00 Kids 5-12 from €7.00 Babies (under 5) €4.00 Arbre Aventure 3 Tree-top adventure - Indiana’Ventures 2185, Route de Coupeau - 74310 Les Houches. Tel. 06 62 67 28 51 - Fax 04 50 74 01 88 E-mail : infos@arbreaventure-montblanc.com site : www.indianaventures.com La forêt du Mont-Blanc at Coupeau - 70 activities taking you from tree to tree in this three hectare park in Coupeau facing the Mont-Blanc massif. You will be introduced to the activities and supervision by a professional. Technical equipment provided. Open every day from 9am-7pm, last departure 4.30pm. Nocturnal outings by reservation only. Adults €22, children €16. Tyrolienne adventure in Coupeau - glide from tree to tree during this hour long Tyrolienne tree top adventure. Height restrictions apply: min. 1m45. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Tariffs/tour: adults 8 €, under 16’s 7 € Kid Aventure aux Chavants - a tree top adventure with the children attached by rope and harness on a continuous safety line. Tariff: 13 € - Height restrictions apply: min.0.95m (4-9yrs). Open every day from 10am -6pm. The Merlet Animal Park Tél 04 50 53 47 89 http://www.parcdemerlet.com/ Coupeau - 74310 Les Houches May, June, and September: all days except Monday, 10am-6pm. July, August: all days 9.30am-7.30pm. Tariffs: Adults: 6 € - children (4-12 yrs) 4 € - Group tariffs on booking. A magnificent 50 hectares park where mountain ibex, chamois, marmots and deer roam in freedom. Restaurant/snack bar with its new panoramic terrace looking out over the Mont-Blanc massif. Video projection about the Alpine fauna. Exhibition on the history of Merlet. Husky dogs HUSKYDALEN Tél/fax : 06 84 99 34 67 ou 04 50 47 77 24 eguillaud@aol.com• www.huskydalen.com Educational and different. Discover nature with man’s best friend. Meet the husky pack and find out more about the activity of the musher. Outings harnessed to the dogs then canine husbandry on the return. Adults 18.50 €/ children 11.50 €. Outings each Thursday from 2pm-4pm, June-Sept. St Bernard breeding kennels Tel. 04 50 47 23 60 - Fax 04 50 47 24 31 223 ch. des Vorziers - La Fontaine 74310 Les Houches During the one hour guided visit you will discover this noble canine race and their prestigious history. Open: 10am-11.30am (every day except Sunday and Monday AM) and 2.30-6.30pm. Tariffs: Adults 5 €/Children (5-12yrs) 3.20 €/ group tariffs on booking. Goat Farm Pascal PAYOT
Farmer & Mountain Guide, PAYOT A FARM, 427 Bridge Road, 74310 Les Houches – FRANCE Tel (mobile): +33 / (0) 6 87 41 71 57
lafermeapayot@hotmail.fr Walks with a donkey +33(0)4 50 47 26 18 Skate Park Les Houches village centre, near the OLCA centre Pony trekking Discover the Chamonix valley by horse... Different possibilities : one or two hours, or during full day ! Booking only Prices : 2011 PRICES
25€ the hour
45€ 2 hours
120€ full day with picnic Address: 504 chemin des eaux rousses
74310 Les Houches Phone: +33(0) 6 13 08 33 58
Phone: +33(0) 4 50 54 54 22 christophe.and@hotmail.fr Rental baby carrier stores in the following sports stores:
Au Petit Savoyard (04 50 54 40 51)
Cyprien Sports (04 50 54 41 02)
Nursery and kids’ club in Les Houches MUNICIPAL DAY NURSERY 201, rue du Mont Blanc (village centre, next to the school complex). Age 3 months to 3 years. Opening hours Monday-Friday 8am-6pm. Subject to availability of places. Contact: 0033 4 50 54 48 19 HOLIDAY DAY NURSERY AND MUNICIPAL EVENTS ORGANISATION Themed weeks with lunch and snack Open Monday to Friday 8am-6pm for children aged 3-5, 5-8 and 9-11. Teens aged 12-18 for outdoor excursions and sports tournaments. Programme available at www.leshouches.com and in the separate "Children" guide. Contact: 0033 4 50 54 43 33 CHILDMINDERS AND BABY SITTERS List available from the tourist office 0033 4 50 55 50 62 Climbing Hall Les Trabets, Les Houches www.montblancescalade.com 1250m2 climbing hall with over 110 climbs for all levels. Open Mon-Fri from 2pm-10pm, Sats from 2pm-9pm and Sunddays + public holidays from 2pm-8pm. Open from 9am in bad weather. Rates: Adults from €13.00 Youths 13-16 from €9.00 Kids 5-12 from €7.00 Babies (under 5) €4.00 Arbre Aventure 3 Tree-top adventure - Indiana’Ventures 2185, Route de Coupeau - 74310 Les Houches. Tel. 06 62 67 28 51 - Fax 04 50 74 01 88 E-mail : infos@arbreaventure-montblanc.com site : www.indianaventures.com La forêt du Mont-Blanc at Coupeau - 70 activities taking you from tree to tree in this three hectare park in Coupeau facing the Mont-Blanc massif. You will be introduced to the activities and supervision by a professional. Technical equipment provided. Open every day from 9am-7pm, last departure 4.30pm. Nocturnal outings by reservation only. Adults €22, children €16. Tyrolienne adventure in Coupeau - glide from tree to tree during this hour long Tyrolienne tree top adventure. Height restrictions apply: min. 1m45. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Tariffs/tour: adults 8 €, under 16’s 7 € Kid Aventure aux Chavants - a tree top adventure with the children attached by rope and harness on a continuous safety line. Tariff: 13 € - Height restrictions apply: min.0.95m (4-9yrs). Open every day from 10am -6pm. The Merlet Animal Park Tél 04 50 53 47 89 http://www.parcdemerlet.com/ Coupeau - 74310 Les Houches May, June, and September: all days except Monday, 10am-6pm. July, August: all days 9.30am-7.30pm. Tariffs: Adults: 6 € - children (4-12 yrs) 4 € - Group tariffs on booking. A magnificent 50 hectares park where mountain ibex, chamois, marmots and deer roam in freedom. Restaurant/snack bar with its new panoramic terrace looking out over the Mont-Blanc massif. Video projection about the Alpine fauna. Exhibition on the history of Merlet. Husky dogs HUSKYDALEN Tél/fax : 06 84 99 34 67 ou 04 50 47 77 24 eguillaud@aol.com• www.huskydalen.com Educational and different. Discover nature with man’s best friend. Meet the husky pack and find out more about the activity of the musher. Outings harnessed to the dogs then canine husbandry on the return. Adults 18.50 €/ children 11.50 €. Outings each Thursday from 2pm-4pm, June-Sept. St Bernard breeding kennels Tel. 04 50 47 23 60 - Fax 04 50 47 24 31 223 ch. des Vorziers - La Fontaine 74310 Les Houches During the one hour guided visit you will discover this noble canine race and their prestigious history. Open: 10am-11.30am (every day except Sunday and Monday AM) and 2.30-6.30pm. Tariffs: Adults 5 €/Children (5-12yrs) 3.20 €/ group tariffs on booking. Goat Farm Pascal PAYOT
Farmer & Mountain Guide, PAYOT A FARM, 427 Bridge Road, 74310 Les Houches – FRANCE Tel (mobile): +33 / (0) 6 87 41 71 57
lafermeapayot@hotmail.fr Walks with a donkey +33(0)4 50 47 26 18 Skate Park Les Houches village centre, near the OLCA centre Pony trekking Discover the Chamonix valley by horse... Different possibilities : one or two hours, or during full day ! Booking only Prices : 2011 PRICES
25€ the hour
45€ 2 hours
120€ full day with picnic Address: 504 chemin des eaux rousses
74310 Les Houches Phone: +33(0) 6 13 08 33 58
Phone: +33(0) 4 50 54 54 22 christophe.and@hotmail.fr Rental baby carrier stores in the following sports stores:
Au Petit Savoyard (04 50 54 40 51)
Cyprien Sports (04 50 54 41 02)
Activities
The Diosaz Gorges
74310 Servoz - Phone +33 (0) 450 47 21 13
The protected park of the Diosaz Gorges is accessible on foot.
The Diosaz river carves through the rocky bluffs, cascading down in a succession of seven waterfalls.
Return trip takes 1hr 30mins.
Picnic area and snack stall.
Open from May to October from 9.30 – 5pm (July/August from 9am-6pm).
Adults from € 5.00
Children from € 3.50
Mountain biking
Mountain bike in Les Houches
3 Trails starting at the resort and at the top of the mountain lifts:
BLUE TRACK: Length: 3km
Elevation: 600m downhill
Modules: 1 drop (blue) / 1 bridge north shore of 150m long (blue)
RED TRACK: Length: 700m
Elevation: 200m downhill
Modules: 1 drop (red) / 1 gateway de150m long (red) / 1 wall ride (red)
BLACK TRACK: Length: 900m
Elevation: 350m downhill
Modules: 1 drop (red) / 1 bridge 30m long (red) / 1 gap descent (black) Enjoy the varied trails in outstanding surroundings offering unique panoramas.
Routes suitable for all levels: newbies, experienced riders and professionals. The ski lifts at Les Houches, Le Tour and Vallorcine provide an easy way to get up to the downhill runs, with vertical drops of between 500 and 1500 m.
A free trail map to mountain biking in the Chamonix Valley is available from the tourist offices. It features around twenty waymarked circuits that take you through the hamlets and villages of the valley. Also available on the Chamonix mobile app & on www.chamonix.com NEW FOR 2013
Electric power-assisted bicycles. 15 power-assisted hybrid bikes are available for use at the tourist offices in the valley.
One-day (24-hour) hire for a flat fee of €10*.
* Terms and conditions on request in the tourist offices
VIEW HERE FOR CHAMONIX VALLEY LIFT OPENING DATES 2013
FURTHER DETAILED INFORMATION ON CHAMONIX VALLEY LIFTS HERE
Bike park - www.bikeparkbellevue.com
Access via télécabine du Prarion, téléphérique de Bellevue or Tramway du Mont Blanc.
It constantly changes but at the moment the Park Practice includes:
A snake (green) / 1 drop (green) / 1 staircase (green) / hoops (green) / 1 switch (blue) / 1 roller (blue) / 2 drop (blue) / 1 switch (red) / 1 volcano ( red) / 1 table row (red) / 1 Skinny (Red) / 1 Double (black)
North Shore area of 160m long, including:
1 Gateway (blue) / 1 skinny line (red) / 1 drop (red) / 1 road gap (red) / 1 step up / step down (red) / 1 staircase (black) / 1 road gap (black) Opening hours: Open from 18/06/11 to 25/09/11
Those openings subject to the lifts Compagnie des Guides - Les Houches Office First time out or skill improving sessions; enjoy everything about mountain biking; custom-made programs to suit your rythm! (Available formulas: gentle ride, enduro style, single tracking, free riding, multiday biking trips…) Prices from €55 Phone +33 (0) 450 54 50 76 http://www.chamonix-guides.eu/ Évolution 2 Information and bookings: Cyprien Sports Phone +33 (0) 450 54 41 02 or +33 (0) 450 55 53 57 www.evolution2.com Private guide from €200 Half a day group session €49 Mountain bike in Argentiere/Chamonix Domaine de Balme offers a wide variety of tracks and trails of all levels. Tracks on the steep and varied Brevent-Flégère also. Walking Whether for an hour or for a full day, Les Houches is the starting point for a host of hikes and rambles for people of all levels. Through deep forest or across Alpine meadows, discover the natural heritage on well-kept, signposted footpaths: - On the track of glaciers at Les Houches Geological discovery rambles at Les Chavants. - Live or survive, the inventiveness of Alpine wildlife Explore the area around Parc de Merlet, easy walking on constructed footpaths. - “Le chemin des villages”, pedestrian and cycle track Between Taconnaz and Les Granges. Hiking Day hiking A day’s outing with a theme: glaciology, heritage 34€ day La Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix, Les Houches office - tel. 0033 4 50 54 50 76, info@chamonix-guides.com, www.chamonix-guides.com In Chamonix Valley-Mont Blanc you’re bound to find the kind of hiking that suits you and that is appropriate to your fitness level: admiring the scenery, enjoying a panoramic balcony walk or climbing to altitude along the many hiking trails and routes at the gateway to the high mountains. You can also go with a mountain leader, who will reveal all the secrets of the local animal and plant life. ON SALE IN THE TOURIST OFFICES IN THE VALLEY
Hiking map Sentiers du Mont-Blanc®: €4.50, 160 routes categorised by difficulty, totalling more than 350 km of footpaths.
Hiking map and guide Sentiers du Mont-Blanc®: €14.00. Map of the Mont Blanc region: €6.00 Canyoneering Introduction: half day 64 e/person Full day’s adventure in Italy: 98 e La Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix Cani-rando with husky dogs
Professional mushers Élisabeth and Christophe Guillaud have carefully selected their Greenland huskies to offer a fun summer activity. Cani-rando involves being pulled along by a dog while guiding it with your voice and precise movements.
Contact: Huskydalen& 06 84 99 34 67 www.huskydalen.com Bookings at the tourist office: 033 4 50 55 50 62 or 04 50 47 21 68
Prices- €20 for an adults’ session - children (7-11 years): €14 - family (2 adults and 2 children): €60 Paragliding Discovery flights in tandem with state diploma instructors, initiation and improver courses, block bookings and special courses, trips, etc. Maiden flight from €100.00 Two-person chute: • from Le Prarion willl be €120.00 • from Grands Montets will be €160.00 • from Aiguille du Midi will be €220.00 Initiation and improver courses from €450.00 Absolute Chamonix Phone +33 (0) 608 23 92 65 - http://www.absolute.chamonix.com/ With Caroline Brille, 5 times French Champion. St Bernard farm
On a one-hour guided tour, Jean-Pierre and Renée Dumont will share with you their passion for St Bernard dogs, bred by the monks at the Grand Saint Bernard monastery who used them as guard dogs but mainly to search for lost travellers.
223, chemin des Vorziers - La Fontaine 0033 4 50 47 23 60
Opening hours in July and August - Daily 10am-11.30pm and 2.30pm-6.30pm except Sunday morning and Monday morning.
Other periods - Closed on Sunday all day and on Monday morning.
Prices - Adults €5 - children (5-12 years) €3.20
Horse riding
Rides for beginners and experienced riders, plus day hacks and rides over several days spending the nights in mountain huts.
In September: opening of the Mont Blanc Riding Centre, with all the usual riding activities found at a riding centre at the new centre at Les Granges.
Contacts: Christophe André
504, chemin des eaux Rousses, 0033 6 13 08 33 58
www.centreequestredumontblanc.com La Compagnie des Ânes
Walks with a donkey, for an hour (€6) or a half day (€34), with Gugus and Cadichon.
55, chemin du Vieux Four- Vaudagne, 0033 4 50 47 26 18 Air excursions ‘Chamonix Mont-Blanc Helicopteres’ Starting from Planpraz or Lognan, for a flight of 10-30 mins, flying over the most famous peaks in the Alps. Price per person depending on route from €67.50 - €200 per person (minimum of 4 people). Tel: +33 450 54 13 82 www.cmbh.net e-mail: info@helico.fr Indoor climbing area Indoor climbing hall with a total surface area of 1,250 m²,14 metres high, 40 climbing corridors and around a hundred routes up to grade 9a, in complete safety. Les Trabets 0033 4 50 54 76 48 www.montblancescalade.com Opening hours Monday-Friday 2pm-10pm, Saturday 2pm-9pm, Sunday 2pm-8pm. In wet weather: open in the mornings from 9am (July and August) Prices • adults from 16 years: €13 • children aged 13-16 years: €9 • children aged 5-12 years: €8 • children under 5 years: €5 Group and private lessons Prices available on the website and on request. Fishing On the Lac des Chavants tel. 06 80 64 51 82. Open from 15th April - 15th October, every day except Mondays and Tuesdays and the day before competitions, from 9am - noon and from 3pm - 7pm. Tariff: 8 €/Kilo Fishing rods and bait can be hired on site. Two disabled ramps in place. Swimming pool Swimming pool, saunas, steam baths
Indoor and outdoor pools, 50m training pool, paddling pool with water features, recreational pool with massage jets and 17m water slide, 130m flume, water garden, jacuzzi, aquagym.
Swimming pool prices: adults €6.70 / children (under 18, before midday) €5.30 / free for under 6s
Carte d’hôte: adults €5.40 / children €4.30.
Swimming pool + sauna and steam bath prices Adults €12.50 / no admittance to sauna and steam bath for under 12s.
An adult must accompany under 10s in the swimming pool / 12 to 18-year-olds in the sauna and steam bath.
Swimming shorts and bermudas not permitted 214, avenue de la Plage
74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
0033 4 50 53 23 70
OPENING HOURS
(may be subject to change)
22 June-5 July - Daily, 12pm-7.30pm.
6 July-1 September - Daily, 10am-7pm. Indoor ice rink (Chamonix)
165, route de la Patinoire
0033 4 50 53 12 36
Opening times from mid-July 2pm-5pm, late opening every Wednesday 9pm-11pm.
Prices:
Adult €5.70
Child €4.30 (6-17 years)
Adult with carte d’hôte €4.40
Child with carte d’hôte €3.30
Skate hire €4
Free admission + skate hire for children under 6. 214, avenue de la Plage
74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
0033 4 50 53 23 70
OPENING HOURS
(may be subject to change)
22 June-5 July - Daily, 12pm-7.30pm.
6 July-1 September - Daily, 10am-7pm. Golf ‘Golf club de Chamonix’ 35 route du golf Les Praz
74401 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Tel: +33(0)4 50 53 06 28
info@golfdechamonix.com www.golfdechamonix.com The 18 hole golf course was designed by the world famous Robert Trent Jones Senior in setting between the Mont-Blanc range and the massif of the Aiguille Rouges. The first three holes of the Chamonix golf club were built in 1934. It was soon extended to a nine hole golf course, and in 1982 Chamonix invited world-renowned golf course architect Robert Trent-Jones to design the last nine holes. The golf course features numerous bunkers, water holes, woodlands and streams, but is on flat ground. Only two teeing grounds are on a hill, just to remind you that it is a mountain golf course.
18 hole golf course - 6076m long course - Par 72
Rates Course access : july and august not included, without booking : 13€ - july and august with booking : 26€
Prepaid Green-fees Hight Saison : 5 Green-Fees : 288€ - 10 Green-Fees : 536€
Prepaid Green-fees Very Hight Saison : 5 Green-Fees : 329€ - 10 Green-Fees : 618€
Opening times From 05/07 to 11/04/12 : open daily. Mini-golf Les Pèlerins - tel. 04 50 55 82 56 - 06 70 11 60 22 74400 Chamonix • July and August from 10.30am to 8pm. Archery Les Houches had made available a nature trail up to Coupeau. Access is free to archers licensed with the FFTA. Tennis Equipment hire available. Courses and lessons for individuals, with children’s lessons from age 4.
Office open in July and August 9am-12.30pm and 3pm-7.30pm Adventure Trail
LA FORÊT DU MONT BLANC
75 aerial challenges from tree to tree on a trail covering 3 hectares. Minimum height 1m35
(4 ft 5) - €22 per session. 2185, route de Coupeau 0033 6 62 67 28 51
www.indianaventures.com KID AVENTURE
A safe children’s trail (height 105 to 135 cm - 3 ft 5 to 4 ft 5) in a magnificent forest opposite the Mont Blanc massif. €16 per session.
Lac des Chavants.
P’TIT KID AVENTURE
Completely safe adventure trail, minimum height
105 cm (3 ft 5).
€10 per session.
Lac des Chavants 0033 6 62 67 28 51 Markets
Monday: Les Houches (school holidays only), Cluses.
Tuesday: Aosta (Italy), Annecy Vieille Ville.
Wednesday: Courmayeur (Italy), Combloux, Praz-sur-Arly.
Thursday: Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, La Rochesur-Foron.
Friday: Megève, Annecy Vieille Ville.
Saturday: Chamonix-Mont Blanc, Sallanches.
Sunday: Annecy Vieille Ville. Merlot Wildlife Park Occupying a former Alpine meadow with an amazing balcony view of the Mont Blanc massif, this park is home to 8 species of Alpine animals that roam in semi-freedom. Visitor events: 2pm: A Mountain of Secrets - 3pm: Antlers and Horns - And in the late afternoon:
Marmots’ Feeding Time. 2495, chemin de Merlet 0033 4 50 53 47 89 - www.parcdemerlet.com Opening hours
• May, June and September: 10am-6pm daily except Monday.
• July and August: daily from 9.30am-7.30pm.
Prices: adults €6 - children (4-14 years) €4 All the above information is for information only. For the most up-to-date information please visit the resort tourist office website Les Houches Tourist Office English spoken Tourist Office Tel. 00 33 450 555 062, Fax. 00 33 4 50 55 53 16 www.leshouches.com 15 June to 15 September - Everyday 9h-12h and 14h15-18h30. Other dates 9h-12h et 14h-18h, closed Sunday and bank hols. Free WiFi. Compagnie du Mont Blanc www.compagniedumontblanc.fr
BLUE TRACK: Length: 3km
Elevation: 600m downhill
Modules: 1 drop (blue) / 1 bridge north shore of 150m long (blue)
RED TRACK: Length: 700m
Elevation: 200m downhill
Modules: 1 drop (red) / 1 gateway de150m long (red) / 1 wall ride (red)
BLACK TRACK: Length: 900m
Elevation: 350m downhill
Modules: 1 drop (red) / 1 bridge 30m long (red) / 1 gap descent (black) Enjoy the varied trails in outstanding surroundings offering unique panoramas.
Routes suitable for all levels: newbies, experienced riders and professionals. The ski lifts at Les Houches, Le Tour and Vallorcine provide an easy way to get up to the downhill runs, with vertical drops of between 500 and 1500 m.
A free trail map to mountain biking in the Chamonix Valley is available from the tourist offices. It features around twenty waymarked circuits that take you through the hamlets and villages of the valley. Also available on the Chamonix mobile app & on www.chamonix.com NEW FOR 2013
Electric power-assisted bicycles. 15 power-assisted hybrid bikes are available for use at the tourist offices in the valley.
One-day (24-hour) hire for a flat fee of €10*.
* Terms and conditions on request in the tourist offices
VIEW HERE FOR CHAMONIX VALLEY LIFT OPENING DATES 2013
FURTHER DETAILED INFORMATION ON CHAMONIX VALLEY LIFTS HERE
Bike park - www.bikeparkbellevue.com
Access via télécabine du Prarion, téléphérique de Bellevue or Tramway du Mont Blanc.
It constantly changes but at the moment the Park Practice includes: A snake (green) / 1 drop (green) / 1 staircase (green) / hoops (green) / 1 switch (blue) / 1 roller (blue) / 2 drop (blue) / 1 switch (red) / 1 volcano ( red) / 1 table row (red) / 1 Skinny (Red) / 1 Double (black)
North Shore area of 160m long, including:
1 Gateway (blue) / 1 skinny line (red) / 1 drop (red) / 1 road gap (red) / 1 step up / step down (red) / 1 staircase (black) / 1 road gap (black) Opening hours: Open from 18/06/11 to 25/09/11
Those openings subject to the lifts Compagnie des Guides - Les Houches Office First time out or skill improving sessions; enjoy everything about mountain biking; custom-made programs to suit your rythm! (Available formulas: gentle ride, enduro style, single tracking, free riding, multiday biking trips…) Prices from €55 Phone +33 (0) 450 54 50 76 http://www.chamonix-guides.eu/ Évolution 2 Information and bookings: Cyprien Sports Phone +33 (0) 450 54 41 02 or +33 (0) 450 55 53 57 www.evolution2.com Private guide from €200 Half a day group session €49 Mountain bike in Argentiere/Chamonix Domaine de Balme offers a wide variety of tracks and trails of all levels. Tracks on the steep and varied Brevent-Flégère also. Walking Whether for an hour or for a full day, Les Houches is the starting point for a host of hikes and rambles for people of all levels. Through deep forest or across Alpine meadows, discover the natural heritage on well-kept, signposted footpaths: - On the track of glaciers at Les Houches Geological discovery rambles at Les Chavants. - Live or survive, the inventiveness of Alpine wildlife Explore the area around Parc de Merlet, easy walking on constructed footpaths. - “Le chemin des villages”, pedestrian and cycle track Between Taconnaz and Les Granges. Hiking Day hiking A day’s outing with a theme: glaciology, heritage 34€ day La Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix, Les Houches office - tel. 0033 4 50 54 50 76, info@chamonix-guides.com, www.chamonix-guides.com In Chamonix Valley-Mont Blanc you’re bound to find the kind of hiking that suits you and that is appropriate to your fitness level: admiring the scenery, enjoying a panoramic balcony walk or climbing to altitude along the many hiking trails and routes at the gateway to the high mountains. You can also go with a mountain leader, who will reveal all the secrets of the local animal and plant life. ON SALE IN THE TOURIST OFFICES IN THE VALLEY
Hiking map Sentiers du Mont-Blanc®: €4.50, 160 routes categorised by difficulty, totalling more than 350 km of footpaths.
Hiking map and guide Sentiers du Mont-Blanc®: €14.00. Map of the Mont Blanc region: €6.00 Canyoneering Introduction: half day 64 e/person Full day’s adventure in Italy: 98 e La Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix Cani-rando with husky dogs
Professional mushers Élisabeth and Christophe Guillaud have carefully selected their Greenland huskies to offer a fun summer activity. Cani-rando involves being pulled along by a dog while guiding it with your voice and precise movements.
Contact: Huskydalen& 06 84 99 34 67 www.huskydalen.com Bookings at the tourist office: 033 4 50 55 50 62 or 04 50 47 21 68
Prices- €20 for an adults’ session - children (7-11 years): €14 - family (2 adults and 2 children): €60 Paragliding Discovery flights in tandem with state diploma instructors, initiation and improver courses, block bookings and special courses, trips, etc. Maiden flight from €100.00 Two-person chute: • from Le Prarion willl be €120.00 • from Grands Montets will be €160.00 • from Aiguille du Midi will be €220.00 Initiation and improver courses from €450.00 Absolute Chamonix Phone +33 (0) 608 23 92 65 - http://www.absolute.chamonix.com/ With Caroline Brille, 5 times French Champion. St Bernard farm
On a one-hour guided tour, Jean-Pierre and Renée Dumont will share with you their passion for St Bernard dogs, bred by the monks at the Grand Saint Bernard monastery who used them as guard dogs but mainly to search for lost travellers.
223, chemin des Vorziers - La Fontaine 0033 4 50 47 23 60
Opening hours in July and August - Daily 10am-11.30pm and 2.30pm-6.30pm except Sunday morning and Monday morning.
Other periods - Closed on Sunday all day and on Monday morning.
Prices - Adults €5 - children (5-12 years) €3.20
Horse riding
Rides for beginners and experienced riders, plus day hacks and rides over several days spending the nights in mountain huts.
In September: opening of the Mont Blanc Riding Centre, with all the usual riding activities found at a riding centre at the new centre at Les Granges.
Contacts: Christophe André
504, chemin des eaux Rousses, 0033 6 13 08 33 58
www.centreequestredumontblanc.com La Compagnie des Ânes
Walks with a donkey, for an hour (€6) or a half day (€34), with Gugus and Cadichon.
55, chemin du Vieux Four- Vaudagne, 0033 4 50 47 26 18 Air excursions ‘Chamonix Mont-Blanc Helicopteres’ Starting from Planpraz or Lognan, for a flight of 10-30 mins, flying over the most famous peaks in the Alps. Price per person depending on route from €67.50 - €200 per person (minimum of 4 people). Tel: +33 450 54 13 82 www.cmbh.net e-mail: info@helico.fr Indoor climbing area Indoor climbing hall with a total surface area of 1,250 m²,14 metres high, 40 climbing corridors and around a hundred routes up to grade 9a, in complete safety. Les Trabets 0033 4 50 54 76 48 www.montblancescalade.com Opening hours Monday-Friday 2pm-10pm, Saturday 2pm-9pm, Sunday 2pm-8pm. In wet weather: open in the mornings from 9am (July and August) Prices • adults from 16 years: €13 • children aged 13-16 years: €9 • children aged 5-12 years: €8 • children under 5 years: €5 Group and private lessons Prices available on the website and on request. Fishing On the Lac des Chavants tel. 06 80 64 51 82. Open from 15th April - 15th October, every day except Mondays and Tuesdays and the day before competitions, from 9am - noon and from 3pm - 7pm. Tariff: 8 €/Kilo Fishing rods and bait can be hired on site. Two disabled ramps in place. Swimming pool Swimming pool, saunas, steam baths
Indoor and outdoor pools, 50m training pool, paddling pool with water features, recreational pool with massage jets and 17m water slide, 130m flume, water garden, jacuzzi, aquagym.
Swimming pool prices: adults €6.70 / children (under 18, before midday) €5.30 / free for under 6s
Carte d’hôte: adults €5.40 / children €4.30.
Swimming pool + sauna and steam bath prices Adults €12.50 / no admittance to sauna and steam bath for under 12s.
An adult must accompany under 10s in the swimming pool / 12 to 18-year-olds in the sauna and steam bath.
Swimming shorts and bermudas not permitted 214, avenue de la Plage
74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
0033 4 50 53 23 70
OPENING HOURS
(may be subject to change)
22 June-5 July - Daily, 12pm-7.30pm.
6 July-1 September - Daily, 10am-7pm. Indoor ice rink (Chamonix)
165, route de la Patinoire
0033 4 50 53 12 36
Opening times from mid-July 2pm-5pm, late opening every Wednesday 9pm-11pm.
Prices:
Adult €5.70
Child €4.30 (6-17 years)
Adult with carte d’hôte €4.40
Child with carte d’hôte €3.30
Skate hire €4
Free admission + skate hire for children under 6. 214, avenue de la Plage
74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
0033 4 50 53 23 70
OPENING HOURS
(may be subject to change)
22 June-5 July - Daily, 12pm-7.30pm.
6 July-1 September - Daily, 10am-7pm. Golf ‘Golf club de Chamonix’ 35 route du golf Les Praz
74401 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Tel: +33(0)4 50 53 06 28
info@golfdechamonix.com www.golfdechamonix.com The 18 hole golf course was designed by the world famous Robert Trent Jones Senior in setting between the Mont-Blanc range and the massif of the Aiguille Rouges. The first three holes of the Chamonix golf club were built in 1934. It was soon extended to a nine hole golf course, and in 1982 Chamonix invited world-renowned golf course architect Robert Trent-Jones to design the last nine holes. The golf course features numerous bunkers, water holes, woodlands and streams, but is on flat ground. Only two teeing grounds are on a hill, just to remind you that it is a mountain golf course.
18 hole golf course - 6076m long course - Par 72
Rates Course access : july and august not included, without booking : 13€ - july and august with booking : 26€
Prepaid Green-fees Hight Saison : 5 Green-Fees : 288€ - 10 Green-Fees : 536€
Prepaid Green-fees Very Hight Saison : 5 Green-Fees : 329€ - 10 Green-Fees : 618€
Opening times From 05/07 to 11/04/12 : open daily. Mini-golf Les Pèlerins - tel. 04 50 55 82 56 - 06 70 11 60 22 74400 Chamonix • July and August from 10.30am to 8pm. Archery Les Houches had made available a nature trail up to Coupeau. Access is free to archers licensed with the FFTA. Tennis Equipment hire available. Courses and lessons for individuals, with children’s lessons from age 4.
Office open in July and August 9am-12.30pm and 3pm-7.30pm Adventure Trail
LA FORÊT DU MONT BLANC
75 aerial challenges from tree to tree on a trail covering 3 hectares. Minimum height 1m35
(4 ft 5) - €22 per session. 2185, route de Coupeau 0033 6 62 67 28 51
www.indianaventures.com KID AVENTURE
A safe children’s trail (height 105 to 135 cm - 3 ft 5 to 4 ft 5) in a magnificent forest opposite the Mont Blanc massif. €16 per session.
Lac des Chavants.
P’TIT KID AVENTURE
Completely safe adventure trail, minimum height
105 cm (3 ft 5).
€10 per session.
Lac des Chavants 0033 6 62 67 28 51 Markets
Monday: Les Houches (school holidays only), Cluses.
Tuesday: Aosta (Italy), Annecy Vieille Ville.
Wednesday: Courmayeur (Italy), Combloux, Praz-sur-Arly.
Thursday: Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, La Rochesur-Foron.
Friday: Megève, Annecy Vieille Ville.
Saturday: Chamonix-Mont Blanc, Sallanches.
Sunday: Annecy Vieille Ville. Merlot Wildlife Park Occupying a former Alpine meadow with an amazing balcony view of the Mont Blanc massif, this park is home to 8 species of Alpine animals that roam in semi-freedom. Visitor events: 2pm: A Mountain of Secrets - 3pm: Antlers and Horns - And in the late afternoon:
Marmots’ Feeding Time. 2495, chemin de Merlet 0033 4 50 53 47 89 - www.parcdemerlet.com Opening hours
• May, June and September: 10am-6pm daily except Monday.
• July and August: daily from 9.30am-7.30pm.
Prices: adults €6 - children (4-14 years) €4 All the above information is for information only. For the most up-to-date information please visit the resort tourist office website Les Houches Tourist Office English spoken Tourist Office Tel. 00 33 450 555 062, Fax. 00 33 4 50 55 53 16 www.leshouches.com 15 June to 15 September - Everyday 9h-12h and 14h15-18h30. Other dates 9h-12h et 14h-18h, closed Sunday and bank hols. Free WiFi. Compagnie du Mont Blanc www.compagniedumontblanc.fr
Apres Ski/Eating
4 Bars-restaurants in the village of Les Houches and 3 others in the mountains
The lively town of Chamonix is only 4 kilometres from Les Houches, offering a wide range of bars, restaurants, nightclubs and shops.
http://www.chamonix.com/
Pâtisseries and Tea Rooms
Les Houches
Le Beau Site
52, rue de l’Église 0033 4 50 55 51 16 Restaurants Le Basilic - 105, pl de la Fruitière 0033 4 50 54 41 www.restaurant-le-basilic.leshouches.com Le Caprice - Traditionnel-Brasserie 475, av des Alpages 0033 4 50 54 50 35 Délice - 130, rue de l’Église 0033 4 50 91 52 06 www.ledelice.eu La Ferme des Agapes 12, rte de Bellevue & 04 50 78 31 24 Le Gandhi - Indian - 653, av des Alpages 0033 4 50 54 63 96 Le Kitsch Inn - 77, pl de la Fruitière 0033 4 50 34 41 74 www.kitchinn.eu La Marmotte - Pl du Prarion & 04 50 54 33 89 La Piccolina - pizzeria 103, rte des Trabets & 04 50 54 50 69 La Sabaudia 275, av des Alpages & 04 50 54 47 72 La Table des Granges - Gastronomique Rte des Chavants & 0033 4 50 54 65 36 www.grangesdenhaut.com Altitude restaurants La Chalette
Gare supérieure du téléphérique de Bellevue 0033 6 80 51 06 26
La Cha
Route du Prarion 0033 4 50 54 30 45
Les Vieilles Luges
Maisonneuve 0033 6 84 42 37 00 - www.lesvieillesluges.com
La Ferme
Chemin de la Carbotte 0033 4 50 90 84 60
Le Prarion (1 860 m)
0033 4 50 54 40 07 - www.prarion.com
Le Hors Pistes
Route de Maisonneuve 0033 4 50 53 53 53 www.le-hors-pistes.com
Les Houches
Le Beau Site
52, rue de l’Église 0033 4 50 55 51 16 Restaurants Le Basilic - 105, pl de la Fruitière 0033 4 50 54 41 www.restaurant-le-basilic.leshouches.com Le Caprice - Traditionnel-Brasserie 475, av des Alpages 0033 4 50 54 50 35 Délice - 130, rue de l’Église 0033 4 50 91 52 06 www.ledelice.eu La Ferme des Agapes 12, rte de Bellevue & 04 50 78 31 24 Le Gandhi - Indian - 653, av des Alpages 0033 4 50 54 63 96 Le Kitsch Inn - 77, pl de la Fruitière 0033 4 50 34 41 74 www.kitchinn.eu La Marmotte - Pl du Prarion & 04 50 54 33 89 La Piccolina - pizzeria 103, rte des Trabets & 04 50 54 50 69 La Sabaudia 275, av des Alpages & 04 50 54 47 72 La Table des Granges - Gastronomique Rte des Chavants & 0033 4 50 54 65 36 www.grangesdenhaut.com Altitude restaurants La Chalette
Gare supérieure du téléphérique de Bellevue 0033 6 80 51 06 26
La Cha
Route du Prarion 0033 4 50 54 30 45
Les Vieilles Luges
Maisonneuve 0033 6 84 42 37 00 - www.lesvieillesluges.com
La Ferme
Chemin de la Carbotte 0033 4 50 90 84 60
Le Prarion (1 860 m)
0033 4 50 54 40 07 - www.prarion.com
Le Hors Pistes
Route de Maisonneuve 0033 4 50 53 53 53 www.le-hors-pistes.com
Access
By Road: Driving distance from Calais to Les Houches 552 miles or 7hrs30. Arrival directly from the A40
By Rail: The TGV station at St Gervais/Le Fayet is 17km from Les Houches
Train station of Les Houches +33 450 55 50 07.
Connecting TGV trains to Annecy and Geneva.
More information at any train station in France, by phone (from France): 0891 67 68 00 or Internet Airports: Geneva Airport is 93km from Les Houches (1 hour) +41 21 22 717 71 05 (daily bus transfers) www.gva.ch/en Chambery Airport is 125km from Les Houches (1 ½ hours) www.chambery-airport.com Turin Airport is 176km from Les Houches (2 hours) www.aeroportoditorino.it Grenoble Airport is 212km from Les Houches (2 hours) www.grenoble-airport.com Lyon Saint-Exupery is 213km from Les Houches (2 hours) www.lyonairport.com Regular bus transfers from GVA to Les Houches via SAT bus, 40, place de la gare
74400 Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Tel : +33(0)450530115
http://www.sat-montblanc.com Les Houches car parking
Les Houches-Prarion gondola lift (THP), Les Chavants: 450 spaces, free.
Town Hall: 50 spaces, free (parking disc).
Bellevue: ideally situated at the starting point of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail. 100 spaces, free.
Espace Olca: 90 spaces, free.
Le Tourchet: 50 spaces, village centre, free. Getting around the area ‘Mont-Blanc Express’ Train. The SNCF-CFF Saint Gervais-Chamonix-Martigny line serves all the villages from Saint Gervais/Le Fayet to Martigny (Switzerland), via Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine. Use of the rail network between Servoz and Vallorcine is free of charge on presentation of a carte d’hôte.
Free travel on trains applies only to journeys starting and ending at stations between Servoz and Vallorcine.
Trains run hourly every day from 7am to 9pm. In France, no more than 5 bicycles may be taken on board a train.
During peak times, SNCF staff reserve the right to refuse to allow bicycles on trains.
In Switzerland, a fee is charged for carrying bicycles on trains.
ENGINEERING WORK 2013
Engineering work on the Saint Gervais-Le Fayet / Vallorcine / Martigny (CH) TER line. Trains will be replaced by a bus service (same timetable, bicycles not permitted):
From 2 April to 28 June, between Vallorcine and Saint Gervais-Le Fayet (or between Le Châtelard Frontière and Saint Gervais- Le Fayet).
From 29 June to 15 September, between Argentière and Le Châtelard Frontière. Need an Airport Transfer? Prices from £86 per person based on 4 sharing a private return taxi from Geneva Airport to Les Houches. Call our reservations team for details on 0844 576 0170 or email reservations@peakretreats.co.uk
Connecting TGV trains to Annecy and Geneva.
More information at any train station in France, by phone (from France): 0891 67 68 00 or Internet Airports: Geneva Airport is 93km from Les Houches (1 hour) +41 21 22 717 71 05 (daily bus transfers) www.gva.ch/en Chambery Airport is 125km from Les Houches (1 ½ hours) www.chambery-airport.com Turin Airport is 176km from Les Houches (2 hours) www.aeroportoditorino.it Grenoble Airport is 212km from Les Houches (2 hours) www.grenoble-airport.com Lyon Saint-Exupery is 213km from Les Houches (2 hours) www.lyonairport.com Regular bus transfers from GVA to Les Houches via SAT bus, 40, place de la gare
74400 Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Tel : +33(0)450530115
http://www.sat-montblanc.com Les Houches car parking
Les Houches-Prarion gondola lift (THP), Les Chavants: 450 spaces, free.
Town Hall: 50 spaces, free (parking disc).
Bellevue: ideally situated at the starting point of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail. 100 spaces, free.
Espace Olca: 90 spaces, free.
Le Tourchet: 50 spaces, village centre, free. Getting around the area ‘Mont-Blanc Express’ Train. The SNCF-CFF Saint Gervais-Chamonix-Martigny line serves all the villages from Saint Gervais/Le Fayet to Martigny (Switzerland), via Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine. Use of the rail network between Servoz and Vallorcine is free of charge on presentation of a carte d’hôte.
Free travel on trains applies only to journeys starting and ending at stations between Servoz and Vallorcine.
Trains run hourly every day from 7am to 9pm. In France, no more than 5 bicycles may be taken on board a train.
During peak times, SNCF staff reserve the right to refuse to allow bicycles on trains.
In Switzerland, a fee is charged for carrying bicycles on trains.
ENGINEERING WORK 2013
Engineering work on the Saint Gervais-Le Fayet / Vallorcine / Martigny (CH) TER line. Trains will be replaced by a bus service (same timetable, bicycles not permitted):
From 2 April to 28 June, between Vallorcine and Saint Gervais-Le Fayet (or between Le Châtelard Frontière and Saint Gervais- Le Fayet).
From 29 June to 15 September, between Argentière and Le Châtelard Frontière. Need an Airport Transfer? Prices from £86 per person based on 4 sharing a private return taxi from Geneva Airport to Les Houches. Call our reservations team for details on 0844 576 0170 or email reservations@peakretreats.co.uk
Resort News
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Other Amenities
Bank, Doctor, Hospital, Chemist, Dentist, Post Office, sports equipment shops, local market every Monday morning (only in season), laundrette, hairdresser, supermarkets, tabac, petrol station
Post office:
Village centre 0033 04 50 54 40 00
Opening hours from Monday to Friday. 9am-12pm and 2pm-5pm Saturday: 9am-12pm.
Opening hours from Monday to Friday. 9am-12pm and 2pm-5pm Saturday: 9am-12pm.
Les Houches
Le Hameau de Pierre Blanche
4* Superior Apartments. Sleeps 2-8
Indoor Pool
Le Hameau de Pierre Blanche prestige residence is only 1.5km from the resort centre.
4* Superior Apartments. Sleeps 2-8
Indoor Pool
Le Hameau de Pierre Blanche prestige residence is only 1.5km from the resort centre.
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