A day trip to Chamonix Mont-Blanc, 1 hour 30 minutes from our motorhome site
The Aiguille du Midi in the morning, the Mer de Glace in the afternoon: Chamonix Mont-Blanc is perfect for a day trip. In the evening, you can then return to the tranquillity of our 3-star campsite in Savoie, with its swimming pool heated to 27 °C.
Via Albertville, the Arly Gorges and Megève. Set off early to make the most of the day.
A 6 × 15 m swimming pool with a shallow end for children. It is also surrounded by a sun terrace covering over 250 m².
Walks, fishing and picnics by the water’s edge. What’s more, the ground is completely flat.
From a studio for two to a three-bedroom lodge for six. You can also choose between Nature, Comfort or Privilege pitches.
A day out in Chamonix Mont-Blanc from the campsite
Allow 1 hour 30 minutes’ drive: setting off at around 6.30 am means you’ll arrive when the ski lifts open.
First, the trip up to the Aiguille du Midi, which opens at 8.10 am in summer. Remember to book your time slot and bring warm clothes.
Then lunch in the centre of Chamonix, near the statues of Balmat, Saussure and Paccard, on the banks of the Arve.
Next, take the red Montenvers train to the Mer de Glace and its ice cave. Allow 2 to 3 hours there.
Finally, back to the peace and quiet of the campsite: one last dip in the pool, the snack bar, and the summer entertainment.
Chamonix Mont-Blanc, the cradle of mountaineering
In 1741, two Englishmen, William Windham and Richard Pococke, explored the valley. They wrote about their journey and gave the Mer de Glace its name. Gradually, Chamonix became a popular destination for travellers.
1786: the first ascent of Mont Blanc
On 8 August 1786, Jacques Balmat and Dr Michel Paccard reached the summit of Mont Blanc. This marked the beginning of modern mountaineering. Today, their statues still stand in the centre of Chamonix.
From the first Winter Games to the Mont Blanc Tunnel
In 1924, Chamonix hosted the very first Winter Olympics. Then the Aiguille du Midi cable car opened in 1955, followed by the Mont Blanc Tunnel in 1965. To help you plan your visit, do take a look at the Chamonix Valley Tourist Office website.
What to see in Chamonix Mont-Blanc in a day
If you only have one day, you’ll have to choose. For most visitors, the Aiguille du Midi and the Mer de Glace are indeed the two must-see attractions. Allow 2 to 3 hours for each, and longer if it’s busy.
Check the weather forecast before you set off, as the peaks are often shrouded in cloud. The day’s opening times are also posted online by the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc.
The Aiguille du Midi, at 3,842 m
The cable car departs from Chamonix, at 1,035 m, and takes around 20 minutes to reach 3,842 m. Up there, the Pas dans le Vide offers a breathtaking view, weather permitting. Please note, however, that children under the age of 3 are not permitted on the ride, and it is not recommended for children under the age of 5.
Montenvers and the Mer de Glace
The rack railway reaches Montenvers, at an altitude of 1,913 metres, in around 20 minutes. From there, a cable car takes visitors down to the ice cave, which is carved out of the glacier every year. This makes it a family-friendly outing, suitable for children aged one and over.
Practical information for visiting Chamonix from the campsite
From the campsite, the most straightforward route takes you via Albertville, the Arly Gorges, Megève and Sallanches. Before setting off, however, do check the road conditions on the route through the Arly Gorges, as it is sometimes closed following rockfalls.
In Chamonix, the Grépon car park in the town centre is the closest to the Aiguille du Midi. Vans and motorhomes over 2.20 m in length have their own dedicated car park. In addition, the Mont Blanc MultiPass provides access to several ski lifts and the valley buses.
On the way, Megève and its listed church are well worth a stop. What’s more, in Saint-Gervais, the Mont Blanc Tramway runs up to the Nid d’Aigle in summer.
What our campers say
Other day trips from our campsite in Savoie
The vineyards, Miolans Castle and lac de Carouge, all situated around the campsite.
The medieval town of Conflans and memories of the 1992 Olympic Games, just 30 minutes away.
The spa town, with its casino and Roman ruins, is 40 minutes away.
The lake is 45 minutes away; the old town and its canals are 55 minutes away.
Carouge, Saint-André, Le Bourget and Annecy: four lakes, all within 45 minutes’ drive.
A mountain lake and its 150-metre dam, in the Beaufortain, 1 hour 20 minutes away.
Frequently asked questions about Chamonix Mont-Blanc from the campsite
Is the campsite near Chamonix?
Not really: it’s about an hour and a half’s drive. However, Chamonix Mont-Blanc is well worth a day trip from the campsite if you set off early in the morning.
When is the campsite open?
We look forward to welcoming you from 20 April to 7 September 2027 – in other words, throughout the summer season.
Is the swimming pool heated?
Yes, at 27 °C throughout the season. Furthermore, the pool measures 6 × 15 m, with a maximum depth of 1.30 m and a shallow end for children.
How do I book?
Online, with a deposit of 30 per cent of the total cost of your stay; we ask that the balance be paid 30 days before arrival. You can also call us on 04 80 81 97 90.
Book your stay at the campsite, 1 hour 30 minutes from Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Mobile homes, lodges and pitches, with a heated swimming pool and a lake 50 metres away. Or call us on 04 80 81 97 90.