Mountain Biking
Enjoy all the excitement of downhill mountain biking…without the uphill struggle! When the snow melts the ski pistes become mountain trails. We take the easy route up – the ski lift, to a massive choice of tracks. There are routes to suit casual and first time riders or competitive down hill enthusiasts.

Hiking
This is beautiful walking country with clear, clean air, dark pine forests, gleaming glaciers and soaring rocky peaks. Walks are well signposted and accessible either from the valley floor or by cable car (open usually from 15th June to September). Lightweight boots and shorts are sufficient. Waterproofs are essential and trekking poles useful. Don't forget sunglasses and skin and lip protection.

The Tour of Mt Blanc is the famous circumnavigation of the Mt Blanc massif: hiking through Italy, Switzerland and France - 3 different countries, cultures and food (8 to 10 days).

Mont Blanc Ascent
Mt Blanc is a challenging climb and takes good fitness, preparation, determination and luck with the weather. It is advisable to acclimatise by making at least one climb at altitude before attempting Mt Blanc, and to have some basic training in the use of ice-axe and crampons.

Rock Climbing
Climbing on the Mt Blanc massif and the Chamonix Valley means hot rock, high mountains, superb granite and miles of limestone cliffs. Crags are usually equipped and mountain routes may be partially equipped with, at least, abseil points in place.

There are also indoor climbing walls both in Les Houches and Chamonix with purpose build areas for lead climb practice.

Via Feratta
With safety already set up, this is an excellent way for new climbers to experience height and exposure for the first time. A harness and helmet is essential and can hired from RA.

Developed by the Italian Army during WW1 to access "inaccessible" peaks; it is now a new activity in its own right and a great way for families to join in outdoor adventures. Though no real climbing ability is needed, a via ferrata does demand a steady head for heights.

Rafting
Rafting is an excellent way to experience white water for the first time! The popular local rivers are the Arve and the Giffre – or for the more bold or experienced there is the Dora Baltea in nearby Italy.

Canyoning
..is vertical swimming! Enjoy exciting natural water slides into deep pools and navigate the course of a river through gorges using any means possible – abseil, jump, scramble or climb!

Kayaking
For those who want to leave the relative safety of a raft, kayaking can be an awesome adrenaline rush. The rivers range from a good Grade III on the Arve to a terrifiying 15km of grade 6 on the Dora Baltea.

Or the Dranse offers a range of levels and is dependent on water releases from the EDF. We can offer advice on rivers, equipment and guides according to your experience.

Paragliding/Tandem
Paragliding is, in effect, a parachute that inflates and flies, needing nothing more to do so but the energy that is created by running gently down a hill (and gravity!).

Hydrospeeding
(white water swimming) is offered by all the rafting companies and is great fun. Thick, reinforced wetsuits, crash hats and flippers are provided but you'll still feel vulnerable.

Glacier Hiking
There are 7 major glaciers and several minor ones in the Chamonix valley. To attempt any activity on these glaciers requires considerable experience and equipment, or should be undertaken only with a guide. There are many guides in Chamonix willing to show you the wonders of these areas, and an English speaking guide can be arranged for you.

Ice Climbing
An activity not to be missed! Fist time glacier explorers can learn evertying from how to put crampons on to using ice screws, ropes and axes to climb - all in one morning! Longer trips and more experience can take you into the remote and fascinating world that is the glacier.

Golf
Golf in the European Alps is popular with many people who want to take in the "alpine feeling" while enjoying a leisurely round of 9 - 18 holes. The golf course in the Chamonix valley has a high standard with excellent facilities.

Horse Riding
There is a choice of riding centre in and around Chamonix and can be a fantastic way to access some remote areas in the valley. All abilities are catered for and hacks or lessons are offered. For the horse enthusiasts, there are regular shows, although some are a little further a field they can offer a good day out of the valley.

Sports Centre
There is a very impressive sports centre which caters for all your health and fitness needs. It offers a fully equipt gym, swimming pool, fitness classes, ice skating, an indoor climbing wall – all at a reasonable price.

Adventure Ropes Course
Move from tree to tree, on a original & safe course adapted for all; traditional tyroleans (harnessed rope slides), bridge, gangways, ladders & beams. You will encounter an atmosphere of relaxation & escape. There is a separate course designed for adults and children so ‘Arbre Adventure’ offers a challenge for everyone!

Alpine Animal Park
Over 20 Hectares offering a stroll of about 11/2 hours meeting many alpine dwellers and enjoying the spectacular views.

Helicopter Flights
Treat yourself to the breath taking panoramic views of the Alps from the best place possible – the air. Several companies offer flights ranging from scenic to Heli Skiing over on the Italian Alps.

Mountaineering Courses
For over 200 years the mountains above Chamonix have been the crucible of Alpine mountaineering. This deep cut valley, dominated by the flanks of the Mt Blanc Massif and it’s smaller companion range the ‘Aiguilles Rouges, is the home to many of Europes finest and most difficult climbs. However Chamonix is not just about extremes. What makes this valley special is the incredible quality and choice of mountain routes at all levels of difficulty. Whatever your ability or fitness there is something for you. Courses and weekends in Chamonix. Made to measure programmes for organised groups. Guides for hire by the day or longer.

Fishing
The lakes around Sallanches and Les Chavants offer good fishing in a beautiful (bug free!) area. Most areas offer day passes and restrict to 5 fishes maximum. For more details the Haute Savoie fishing guide available at the Tourist Office.

St Bernards Breeding Kennels
Open for the public Monday afternoon – Saturday evening throughout the year

Petanque
Covered bowling area at the Olca hall. Open from October to April, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday from 2pm - 8pm. Competitions on Sunday