An escape to the mountains doesn't have to be a skiing affair with Chamonix offering a wonderful mountain escape all year round.
With an old town charm, Chamonix is a resort town in the junction of France, Switzerland and Italy where most people vacation in the winter for skiing season, though the Chamonix valley offers a lot more than just snow.
While there is no denying why skiing in Chamonix is a bucket list destination, with Mont Blanc the ultimate skiing slope for many, the town's gorgeous setting also makes for a wonderful summer escape. For sports enthusiasts, Chamonix's mountain ranges are an enticing playground for hiking and trail running, and for adrenalin junkies paragliding from the Aiguille du Midi offers breathtaking views of the glaciers.
Looking for a more chilled getaway with less sports? Reserve your seat on a cable car and head 3842 metres above sea level to the top of the Aiguille du Midi and take in the crispy air and a close-up view of the Mont Blanc. With sweeping views of the Alps, you will literally feel on top of the world and ready to head back down to earth for cocktail hour.
The Janssen cocktail bar is one of the city's most popular bars where creative cocktails are served with great music. The pulsating bar is the heart of the La Folie Douce hotel, the largest hotel in Chamonix. Just a two-minute walk from the town's centre, La Folie Douce is one quite attractive accommodation option while visiting the town. Not restricting itself to a certain hotel category, La Folie Douce has swept aside the concept of stars and has instead put together a destination hotel that suits everyone. Families, couples, and guests on a budget, the modern establishment offers a wonderful option for every guest. If you are on a tight budget the "hostel" style rooms could be more your speed, and if you are wanting to splurge then the suites with balconies overlooking the mountains is your ticket to luxury.
The hotel also boasts a spa and several restaurants including La Petite Cuisine where dinner and a live show are served from Monday to Saturday. And a highlight of staying at La Folie Douce? Its outdoor swimming pool, with its prime position inviting you to take a dip while guarded by the Mont Blanc. Could there be a better backdrop for your lazy tanning afternoon?