What to do in Chamonix during spring?
Spring in Chamonix marks the transition between snow and the return of sunny days. The days are getting longer, temperatures are slowly rising, and nature is beginning to come back to life. Less crowded than in winter or summer, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the peace and quiet while combining skiing, hiking…
Whether you’re just passing through or a local, here are some must-do spring activities in the Chamonix Valley.
Must-See Attractions in the Chamonix Valley
The Aiguille du Midi
A must-see attraction in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, the Aiguille du Midi takes you to an altitude of over 3,800 meters, deep into the high mountains.
In just a few minutes, you’ll go from the valley to the eternal snows, facing a spectacular panorama of the Mont Blanc massif.
With panoramic terraces, dizzying walkways, and the famous “Pas dans le Vide,” the experience is as impressive as it is unforgettable.
The Mer de Glace & Montenvers
Just a few kilometers away, the Mer de Glace offers a completely different yet equally fascinating setting.
This ice giant, France’s largest glacier, can be explored along an immersive trail featuring viewpoints, staircases, and an ice cave carved anew each year.
It’s a true immersion into the world of glaciers—both spectacular and accessible—that offers a deeper understanding of the mountain’s power and fragility.
Which ski lifts are open in the spring in Chamonix?
The ski areas in the upper valley
Spring is also ideal for skiing: the snow is softer, and the temperatures are more pleasant.
You can still enjoy the high-altitude Grands-Montets ski area.
This is the ski area that closes latest in the season, as it is the highest and best known for its steep slopes.
Open until May 3, starting at 8:30 a.m.
It’s also the best season to marvel at the famous Vallée Blanche, which connects the Aiguille du Midi to Montenvers. But be careful—this is off-piste skiing. Only attempt it with experts and the proper equipment.
Les Grands-Montets
Spring Hiking in Chamonix
As the snow melts, you can start enjoying the trails at lower and mid-altitudes. At this time of year, the meadows begin to bloom, and the contrast between snow and greenery is simply stunning.
Get back into the swing of things with easy hikes like Lac Vert and La Floria.
For more challenging hikes, check with La Chamoniarde for details on conditions and snow coverage.
Spring Outdoor Activities in Chamonix
Don't miss out on these outdoor adventures
This is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities without having to put on your skis.
Paragliding
This is one of the valley’s most iconic activities.
From the air, you’ll soar over the valley with an incredible view of the Mont Blanc massif.
There are many paragliding schools in Chamonix.
Mountain Bikin
When the trails start to clear, mountain biking becomes the perfect way to explore the Chamonix Valley in a whole new light. With forests, smooth trails, and panoramic views, electric bike rides in particular are a must-try activity in the Chamonix Valley.
Downhill mountain biking is also possible depending on snow conditions.
Hot air ballooning
Take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride over the Mont Blanc massif. From Praz-sur-Arly, Alpes Montgolfière offers a unique and peaceful experience, allowing you to admire the Alps from a different perspective, amidst peaks and valleys.
Golf
Spring is also a great time to discover golf in the Chamonix Valley. The course features an 18-hole layout with exceptional views of the Mont Blanc massif.
2026 Opening Hours:
Reception - Pro Shop / Driving Range: Friday, April 10, 2026
18-hole Course: Friday, April 17, 2026
For more information, visit the golf course’s official website
Tennis
In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, tennis is the perfect springtime activity for enjoying the outdoors and the valley’s lively sporting atmosphere. Between rallies on outdoor courts and moments spent gazing at the peaks, you’ll play in a natural setting that adds a whole new dimension to the game.
Accessible to everyone, it’s a great option after a day in the mountains or as a way to mix things up during your stay.
The Domaine des Planards
If the cold weather has you beat, you can always zoom down the mountain on a rail sled! It’s truly a must-do activity in Chamonix, whether with family or friends, for ages 3 and up.
Kids will love the Parc d’Attractions des Planards, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and games. The Planards area is open from April through early November.
The Alpine Coaster is the main attraction at the Domaine des Planards and is designed for the whole family, ages 3 and up.
Hours: Open every day during Easter break from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and on weekends and long weekends during the same hours.
The Chamonix Swimming Pool
From December 20, 2025, to May 3, 2026, Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Weekends from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Closed on May 1
The sauna is open during the same hours
Please note, however, that the pool is closed from May 4 to May 25, 2026.
Weight room
Ages 16 and up.
From December 20, 2025, to May 4, 2026, Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Sundays from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Special closure on May 1.
The weight room will be closed from May 5 to May 17, 2026.
Indulge in the culinary delights of the Chamonix Valley
Lunch with a view of Mont Blanc
Strolling through the streets of Chamonix is always a pleasant experience.
Whether you’re taking a break from shopping or sports, or just out for fun, be sure to grab lunch or dinner at one of the many great restaurants.
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the sunny outdoor seating, try out the best local spots, and take some time for yourself.
Chamonix and its surrounding towns are full of restaurants where you can soak up the sun while enjoying views of the still-snow-capped peaks.
From Savoyard cuisine to bistronomy and more modern options, there’s something for everyone.
To find out where to enjoy a delicious fondue in Chamonix, a Savoyard specialty, or a dish from around the world, check out my recommendations below:
Relax in a spa at the foot of Mont Blanc
There’s nothing better than a relaxing spa experience after an outdoor activity or a great day of skiing.
Chamonix offers a variety of wellness centers with views of the glaciers and the Mont Blanc massif
Perfect for recovering after a workout, or just for the sheer pleasure of unwinding.
Among my favorite spa destinations, some require booking a treatment, such as:
- Le Prieuré Hotel
- Lykke
Others are open to the public without the need to book a treatment: - Les Granges d'en Haut, in Les Houches
- Les Thermes de Saint-Gervais
- Le Crystal de Jade
- Deep Nature Spa Les Aiglons
And don't forget the must-try floatation spa experience in Domancy, which immerses you in deep relaxation and total letting go.
Here is my selection of top spa recommendations on Mon Petit Chamonix!
Museums to Visit in Chamonix This Spring
And don't forget the wonderful museums in Chamonix.
In the spring, the Crystal Museum is open.
Open Tuesday through Sunday:
Outside of school holidays: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
School holidays: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
July and August: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25
Special closure on April 10, 2026
When it rains in Chamonix (or even when the weather is nice, for that matter), we love the Cinema Vox or the traveling film screenings at the Les Houches community center, with Cinébus Le Grand Soir.
There you go—once you’ve done all that, if you have time to do it all, then you can say you’ve had a wonderful stay in Chamonix!
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask me on Instagram or by email.
