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Famous for hosting the 1924 Winter Olympics, Chamonix is also known for its cross-country skiing. The jewel of the French Alps boasts 50 kilometres of classic and skate skiing tracks for both beginners and experienced skiers. New to nordic skiing? Take a cross-country ski lesson to discover this great way to get a workout surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility. The pistes are located in different villages across Chamonix. Wherever you book your Villanovo luxury chalet or apartment, you'll be sure to find one nearby.
What do you wear for cross-country skiing? Pack multiple layers that you can peel off when you work up a sweat or that will keep you warm when the temperature drops. Think a warm jacket, a windproof and waterproof outer layer, and a fitted base layer that wicks water away. Your equipment depends on whether you choose the classic style (forward-back movement) or the skating technique (side by side). Classic is easier for beginners.
When cross-country skiing in Chamonix, you need to buy a ski pass for most tracks—and a pedestrian pass if you take a lift. The pistes can be found across the Chamonix valley, including Vallorcine, Bois du Bouchet, Argentière, and Servoz. Check snow conditions to ensure there is proper snow cover.
The charming villages of Chamonix beckon adults and children to learn cross-country skiing in a sublime setting. Easy to access and free of charge, the short initiation loop around Lac Chavants in Les Houches is perfect for beginners. Vallorcine has two green loops, the .3km Initiation and .9km Le Mermy, plus the blue 3.4km Les Mayens for when you're ready to go beyond beginner. In Argentière, both the green 1km Les Iles and blue 2.8km Les Chosalets have parking conveniently located nearby. In Chamonix, Bois du Bouchet is a circular green route that weaves through the beautiful Bois du Bouchet woods.
The pistes are open from 9am - 5pm. On Thursdays during ski holidays, Skiing Nocturnes are held at 6:30pm. Don't forget that the trails go in one direction only—just follow the arrows!
Cross-country skiing in Chamonix is also a delight for intermediate and experienced skiers. In Vallorcine, La Courzille is a picturesque red piste that winds besides the Eau Noire stream, up hills, and through larch forests. In Chamonix, weave through trees and alongside the river on the blue 7km Orthaz piste, continuing onto the 11km Les Bois for a more challenging red trail. For those looking for a sloping trail, try the red 9km La Moraine close to the centre of Argentière. Take the Prarion Gondola in Les Houches to reach two trails with stunning 360-degree views and Mont Blanc in the backdrop. Note these long groomed trails are for skating technique only.
Want to try cross-country skiing for the first time in Chamonix? Are you a seasoned skier who wants to improve your skills? Chamonix ski schools offer lessons at every level for both children and adults. Choose a private or group lesson in the classic style or skating technique—or even biathlon if you're feeling adventurous. The expert English-speaking instructors will make you feel at ease, teaching you how to effectively go uphill and descend and brake safely. The world's largest ski school, ESF, has branches in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Les Houches, and Vallorcine. Why not have your Villanovo concierge book a lesson for the whole family for a memorable experience on the pistes?
You won't have to travel far to find a shop to rent or buy cross-country skiing equipment in Chamonix. Head to Dessailoud in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Cyprien Sports in Les Houches, or the French sports chain Intersport, which has five ski shops in different villages. You will need to decide in advance whether you'll be using the classic style or skating technique since their equipment (skis, boots, and poles) differs to accommodate the forward or side-to-side motion. Some helpful tips? Cross country skis and poles are longer than alpine skiing. Plus, many shops also rent ski clothes if you need. Reserve your equipment online for reduced rates.
Villanovo has a wide range of apartments and chalets by the slopes, with a private pool or jacuzzi, or that are catered. We also offer chalets for large groups, since Chamonix is one of the best ski resorts for groups in the Alps.
For the perfect stay, rent one of our luxury chalets and apartments in prime locations in Chamonix, like Argentière, Chamonix Centre, Les Bossons, Les Praz, and Les Houches.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your holiday in Chamonix. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, like booking lessons, childcare, a private chef for your chalet, or reservations at restaurants that serve Alpine cuisine. Last but not least? Our local concierges have insider recommendations for great restaurants, shops and après-ski spots in Chamonix.
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