The Chapels and Oratories of Les Houches: A Journey Through Heritage and Alpine Landscapes

Did you know that the town of Les Houches has 15 chapels and wayside shrines scattered throughout its hamlets, forests, and alpine pastures? To highlight this unassuming yet remarkable heritage, the town of Les Houches has published a brand-new brochure titled “Heritage Trails: Chapels and Oratories.”

This publication invites curious visitors and local history enthusiasts to discover these often-hidden structures while enjoying the exceptional panoramic views that Les Houches offers of the Mont Blanc massif and the Aiguilles Rouges mountain range.

©Noémie Silberberg

A cultural stroll through the hamlets

Each stop suggested in the booklet reveals a different facet of the region: traditional architecture, local anecdotes, and traces of daily life from days gone by. From the Vaudagne Chapel, built in the 17th century with the support of the hamlet’s residents, to the Petit Temple de la Paix du Christ-Roi, via the oratories of L’Ormey, Le Bourgeat, and Le Pacheu, the route crosses the entire town and offers a fresh perspective on places that are sometimes forgotten.

Some buildings are located near roads or on hiking trails, while others are tucked away in more secluded spots, but all have a story to tell, often linked to the unique geographical or social characteristics of their neighborhood.

A comprehensive and accessible booklet

Designed as a heritage walking guide, the brochure features:

• Illustrated descriptions for each chapel or oratory,
• Practical information on how to get there (on foot, by car, or by bus),
• Tips on parking and sustainable transportation for a stress-free visit.

Accessible to everyone, this route offers a wonderful opportunity to explore Les Houches in a different way, combining a stroll, cultural discovery, and scenic views.

📍 Where can you find the brochure?

It is now available:

• at the reception desk of Les Houches City Hall,
• atthe Les Houches Tourist Office
• the Musée Montagnard,
• Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church,
• at the Les Houches Municipal Library.

A Different Way to Discover Les Houches

This heritage trail is designed for all lovers of the Chamonix Valley who want to venture off the beaten path. It takes you from one hamlet to the next, giving you time to stop, observe the details of a facade, a stained-glass window, or a landscape, and let yourself be charmed by these reminders of the past.

©Noémie Silberberg

Download the brochure online or pick up a copy at the reception desk during your visit— and set out to discover a local heritage just waiting to be explored.