Chamonix, Serre Chevalier, and Cervinia are three distinct ski resorts, each offering unique experiences and benefits to skiers and snowboarders. Here's a comparison of the differences and benefits of these resorts:
Location: Les Houches is located at one end of the famous Chamonix Valley in the French Alps near the border with Switzerland and Italy. It's known for its proximity to iconic peaks like Mont Blanc. With easy access to the Evasion ski area (including ski resorts such as Saint Gervais and Megeve), which is now included on the Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass, Les Houches is perfectly located to make the most out of all ski areas in Chamonix and surrounding resorts.
Quick Airport transfers: With the resort being only 1 hour drive from Geneva airport in Switzerland, Les Houches enjoys quick and easy access from anywhere in the world. With the short airport transfer time, Les Houches is a great option if you are short on time and looking for quick and easy access to the slopes on a short break or ski weekend.
Cheap Local Ski Pass: Beginner and low intermediate solo skiers and snowboarders can save money by skiing avoiding the larger ski area of the Chamonix valley and simply enjoy the local mountain of Les Houches. This is a great area for all abilities but ideal for a full week if you are only learning to ski or snowboard with plenty of green and blue runs to explore.
Variety of Ski Areas: Skiers and snowboarders of an intermediate level or above staying in Les Houches can also access the famous Chamonix valley, offering a variety of ski areas including Les Grands Montets, Le Brévent, La Flégère and Le Tour. With the larger Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass, not only can you ski in Les Houches and Chamonix, but also other neighbouring ski resorts such as St Gervais (20 min drive), Megeve (20 min drive), Les Contamines (30 min drive), Courmayeur in Italy (30 min drive) and even Crans Montana (2.5h drive) in Switzerland - over 1100 km of piste and a choice of 11 different ski domains!
Lots of activities: Les Houches together with neighbouring Chamonix is a big ski resort with plenty of activities to enjoy off the piste including indoor rock climbing, wellness centres and spas, parapenting, husky dog rides, snow shoeing, glacier walks, shopping and sightseeing. The list is endless…
Spectacular Scenery: Les Houches is famous for its breathtaking mountain views of Mont Blanc, with a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the neighbouring resort of Chamonix. It's a paradise for those who appreciate natural beauty while having the opportunity to ski the best ski terrain in Europe and have access to Chamonix whenever needed.
All Weather Skiing: The ski terrain of Les Houches is sheltered with lots of tree-lined runs meaning that even in heavy snow and winds, the resort remains open with great snow and visibility.
Off-Piste Adventures: For experienced skiers and snowboarders, Les Houches and Chamonix is the ultimate destination for extreme off-piste and backcountry experiences. We can happily arrange the best mountain guides for you.
Location: Chamonix is located in the French Alps near the border with Switzerland and Italy. It's known for its proximity to iconic peaks like Mont Blanc.
Quick Airport transfers: With the resort being only 1 hour 15 min drive from Geneva it makes this resort very quick and easy to access from anywhere in the world.
Variety of Ski Areas: The Chamonix valley offers a variety of ski areas, including Les Houches, Les Grands Montets, Le Brévent, La Flégère and Le Tour. With the larger Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass you can also access other neighbouring ski resorts such as Saint Gervais, Megeve, Les Contamines, Courmayeur in Italy and even Crans Montana in Switzerland. Over 1100 km of piste and a choice of 11 different ski domains! Intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders will be spoiled for choice with endless options for blues, red and black runs and the snow park in Le Tour will keep freestyle enthusiasts entertained.
Extreme Skiing: Chamonix is renowned for its challenging and steep terrain, making it a hotspot for expert skiers and snowboarders seeking thrilling off-piste adventures. The famous Vallee Blance glacier run features on many bucket lists and involves a guided descent along the glacier through crevasses under towering seracs.
Ski Terrain for all abilities: As Chamonix is a big ski resort it offers ski areas / terrain for all abilities from beginner to advanced. With Les Houches ideal for beginners, La Flegere, Brevent, Le Tour ideal for intermediates and Grands Montets and the famous Aiguille du midi for the more advanced skiers and snowboarders it's easy to see what this ski area is on of the best in the world for all abilities.
Lots of activities: Chamonix is a big ski resort with plenty of other activities to enjoy when not skiing or snowboarding. Visit the QC Terme Chamonix spa, book a tandem parapent flight or enjoy a husky dog ride. Snow shoeing, glacier walks, shopping, sightseeing and ice climbing also feature on this never ending list of alternative activities to enjoy in Chamonix.
Spectacular Scenery: Chamonix is famous for its breathtaking mountain views, and it's a paradise for those who appreciate natural beauty.
Vibrant Town: The town of Chamonix offers a lively après-ski scene, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. It's an excellent place to socialise and unwind after a day on the slopes.
Off-Piste Adventures: For experienced skiers and snowboarders, Chamonix is the ultimate destination for extreme off-piste and backcountry experiences.
Long Ski Season: With the first ski lifts opening in November and the last lifts closing in May, you can book a solos ski holiday at any time during the season and guarantee that you will be able to enjoy some great skiing!
High Altitude Resort: With the majority of the ski areas being above 2000m, Chamonix is renowned as a snow-sure resort offering perfect conditions throughout the winter season.
Chamonix Ski Resort promo video
Location: Nestled in the Southern French Alps, Serre Chevalier enjoys a milder and sunnier climate compared to some northern resorts, offering a more pleasant skiing experience.
Beginner-Friendly Terrain: Known for its skier-friendly layout, Serre Chevalier features a variety of beginner and intermediate slopes. The extensive network of ski lifts ensures easy access to the vast ski area, regardless of your skill level.
Renowned Off-Piste and Tree Runs: This hidden gem boasts exceptional off-piste terrain and scenic tree runs, providing endless adventure and exploration opportunities for avid skiers.
Authentic Alpine Charm: Serre Chevalier is home to picturesque villages with a genuine Alpine atmosphere, including Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding to the resort's unique charm and character.
Diverse Skiing: With over 250 kilometres of slopes, Serre Chevalier provides varied terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Sunny Weather: The region enjoys a relatively mild climate, so you can often expect sunny skiing conditions, especially during the winter months.
Cultural Exploration: In addition to skiing, you can explore the rich history and culture of the region, including ancient fortifications and charming Alpine villages.
Serre Chevallier Ski Resort promo video
Location: Positioned on the Italian side of the Matterhorn, Cervinia is part of the Matterhorn Ski Paradise, which also includes the renowned Zermatt in Switzerland.
High-Alpine Terrain: Known for its elevated skiing, Cervinia offers excellent snow conditions early in the season and breathtaking views of the iconic Matterhorn.
Italian Charm: Experience the essence of Italian culture with Cervinia's delightful cuisine and relaxed ambiance, adding a unique flavour to your skiing adventure.
Affordable Access to Zermatt: Cervinia provides an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds—affordable Italian hospitality and the chance to ski over to Zermatt. Explore the Swiss side without breaking the bank while savouring the distinctive Swiss experience.
High and Reliable Snowfall: Cervinia's high-altitude terrain and the influence of the Matterhorn provide a long and reliable skiing season with excellent snow conditions.
International Skiing: If you have the necessary ski pass, you can ski across international borders to Zermatt in Switzerland, expanding your skiing options even further.
Scenic Beauty: The backdrop of the Matterhorn and the stunning views make Cervinia a picturesque destination for those who appreciate natural beauty.
In summary, Chamonix is known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery, Serre Chevalier offers a skier-friendly and sunny atmosphere, and Cervinia provides high-altitude skiing and a taste of Italian & Swiss culture. The choice among these resorts depends on your skiing ability, preferences, and what type of experience you're seeking. Each resort has its own unique charm and attractions for winter sports enthusiasts. Please don’t hesitate to contact us direct with more questions or advice on the best resort for you: info@coldfusionchalets.co.uk
Cervinia Ski Resort promo video
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