Leisure and family

What family activities will you choose?
The Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley offers a diverse range of activities that will appeal to the whole family. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or looking for some quiet time in the great outdoors, Chamonix has something for everyone.
Our family leisure activities
You'll also find our special events for young and old alike!
Summer activities
In summer, the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley blossoms under the Alpine sun and becomes a huge playground for the whole family. From the village of Servoz to Vallorcinepassing through Les Houches and Argentièresummer activities abound for young and old alike. Between gentle hikes, natural discoveries and original leisure activities, every day offers its share of adventures and shared moments.
Easy hiking in Chamonix
The mountains are easy to discover, thanks to numerous family-friendly itineraries. The Paradis des Praz trail, accessible from Chamonix, is a must: children love playing in the stream, watching the horses and enjoying the play areas. For a more panoramic stroll, the lac des Gaillands offers the ideal setting for a picnic overlooking the Mont-Blanc peaks.
In Les Houches, strolls around the Lac des Chavants leisure park or the Col de Voza are effortless ways to discover the Alpine landscape. In Argentière, the walk to the glacier of the same name is a delight for young and old alike, while in Vallorcine, the trails wind between forests and torrents in a peaceful atmosphere. Finally, Servoz unveils a fascinating natural heritage with the gorges de la Diosaza pathway over impressive waterfalls, accessible from an early age.
Zoo, animal parks and horse riding
To observe Alpine fauna, head for the Parc animalier de Merlet in Les Houches. Located on a mountainside, it is home to chamois, ibex, marmots and deer in an unspoilt natural setting. It's a top activity for families, combining walking with educational activities. Children can approach the animals in semi-liberty while enjoying an exceptional panorama of the Mont-Blanc massif.
For horse lovers, several riding schools offer pony rides and introductoryriding courses throughout the valley. In Argentière and Vallorcine, horse-riding excursions allow you to discover the mountains in a different way, at walking pace. In summer, educational farms also open their doors, inviting children to discover rural life and mountain animals.
Paintball, laser games and escape games for the whole family
For a dose of adrenalin with the whole family, a number of modern leisure activities are available in Chamonix and the surrounding villages. Outdoorpaintball and laser games appeal to teenagers and parents in search of active entertainment. The courses, set in natural surroundings, offer a safe and fun environment.
Enigma buffs can try out Chamonix's escape games: immersive adventure games where logic and cooperation are the keys to success. These activities, accessible from the age of 8, guarantee laughter and moments of complicity. In Les Houches and Servoz, a number of structures also offer treasure hunts and orienteering games in the great outdoors, ideal for keeping the whole tribe busy.
Winter activities
When snow covers the valley, Chamonix and its villages are transformed into a white paradise for families. Winter activities abound: skiing, tobogganing, hiking, cultural discoveries or simply relaxing in the warmth. Each village has its own charm and winter activities for children.
Learn to snowboard or ski in the schools
The valley's ski schools are renowned for their quality and friendliness. Instructors welcome children from the age of 3 for their first steps on skis. Safe kindergartens, conveyor belts and fun runs make learning easy. For teenagers, snowboarding and freestyle courses offer a more fun and dynamic approach to skiing.
At Les Houches, the ski area offers gentle, panoramic slopes perfect for beginners. In Vallorcine, the children's areas offer a quiet, family atmosphere. Parents can enjoy the great slopes while the younger ones learn in complete safety.
Montenvers train
The Montenvers rack railway is a must in winter and summer alike. It takes visitors right up to the famous Mer de Glace. The train ride is already an adventure for children, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains. Once there, the ice cave and glaciorium fascinate young and old alike. It's a magical, educational family outing, perfect for a full day out.
Activities to do with a baby or toddler
Travelling to Chamonix with a baby or toddler is perfectly possible. Many accommodations and sites are equipped to welcome families with young children. Easy walks, such as those in Les Gaillands, the Paradis des Prazdes Bois or Bois du Bouchetare all suitable for all-terrain baby carriages. Playgrounds and relaxation areas, particularly at Paradis des Praz, are perfect for outdoor breaks.
Aquatic centers in the valley, such as the Chamonix swimming pool, offer pools suitable for toddlers. In winter, some resorts, such as Les Houches, offer day-care facilities or crèches, so that parents can ski with peace of mind. Groomed footpaths also offer safe toboggan rides for children.
What to do when it rains in Chamonix?
Rainy days in Chamonix are an opportunity to discover other facets of the valley. There are a number of indoor activities to keep you dry and entertained. Visit Musée du Mont-Blanc (reopening soon) and the Maison de la Mémoire et du Patrimoine immerse visitors in the history of the valley and mountaineering. Escape games and virtual reality games guarantee fun and original moments.
Children love a trip to Chamonix's skating rink or bowling alley, while parents can enjoy a moment of relaxation in a spa or wellness center. Les Houches and Servoz also offer creative workshops, farm visits and home cooking classes to occupy quieter days.
Go to the cinema, skating rink or swimming pool
For a convivial evening or relaxing afternoon, Chamonix's Chamonix's Vox cinema offers screenings for all ages, with films for children and documentaries on the mountains. The Richard Bozon skating rink delights young and old alike, with skate hire and family sessions. As for the municipal swimming pool, it offers heated pools, slides and relaxation areas for an enjoyable activity whatever the weather.
Family accommodation and dining
The Chamonix valley has a wealth of family-friendly accommodation: hotels with connecting suites, tourist residences, cosy B&Bs and independent chalets. In Les Houches and Vallorcine, quiet accommodation makes for an authentic stay. Many establishments offer children's menus, play areas and babysitting services.
When it comes to eating out, the valley's family restaurants offer typical Savoyard dishes and simple menus adapted to younger guests: croziflette, pizza, burger, fondue, blueberry tart... In Chamonix itself, lively terraces and crêperies appeal to families after a day of discovery. In Servoz, local gastronomy combines with the friendly atmosphere of an unspoilt mountain village.
Between nature, relaxation and shared pleasure, family leisure activities in Chamonix offer an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif. Summer or winter, every moment becomes an adventure to be enjoyed together in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Alps.
