Just a few minutes from Chamonix at a height of 1,264 metres is the picturesque village of Vallorcine, a small ski resort at the entrance to the Chamonix valley which has retained its original, traditional character. Guests staying in Vallorcine have the dual advantage of being able to ski in the adjoining Col de Balme ski area as well as having access to the slopes of Les Grands Montets, with 17 kilometres of pistes, Aiguille du Midi, with 20, and Le Brévent/La Flégère which offers a total of 29 kilometres of pistes. The resort of Argentière and the world-famous ski base Chamonix can be reached easily from Vallorcine by mountain railway.
The Col de Balme ski area, situated at between 1,264 and 2,270 metres, is particularly suitable for beginners and families and offers 22 easy to intermediate runs and a total of 25 kilometres of pistes. More experienced skiers and freeriders, however, will also enjoy what the area has to offer and those wanting to learn the art of deep snow skiing will find Vallorcine provides the perfect conditions. Col de Balme also has a special treat for ski professionals – the challenging black run, the Piste d’Emosson - a real highlight for those with the nerve for it! For cross-country skiers there are 10 kilometres of well-groomed trails to enjoy.
