Les Houches - Chamonix Valley

Well Les Houches, the small exclusive ski village close to Chamonix has certainly experienced five minutes of fame after the world press focused on the question of whether someone did or didn't visit this beautiful place. As with all such occasions ('circus' is probably a better description), the usual, lies, half truths, and total fabrications have subsequently followed. Sadly as one gets older, the depths that some have gone here no longer shocks, and for those responsible we hope you are thoroughly ashamed of what you have done / printed!

However, rather than concentrate on the negatives, I thought we would concentrate on the positives in respect of Les Houches. At the start of the valley, Les Houches is the resort that the Kandahar World Cup Race frequents. Although Chamonix is often credited with this event, it is its smaller exclusive neighbour where the event is held. Unlike its Chamonix neighbour, Les Houches and its luxury chalets retains its exclusive appeal with strict planning rules that limit the proximity of one chalet to another to ensure a feeling of tranquility. The Marie is also careful to ensure that ski slopes aren't the only source of open space, and a number of pastures are retained for farming in summer months. The net result, particularly around the hamlets of Les Chavants and Le Cret, here in Les Houches, are some truly luxury ski chalets, situated in some of the most beautiful mountain scenery and alpine pastures, you are likely to experience.

Being situated under Mont Blanc, the skiing isn't bad either with snowfall often placing the Chamonix Valley at the top of the ratings in terms of snow depth. In Les Houches the skiing is particularly suited for families and the chance to cruise on well pisted runs, and probably some, if not the best scenery you will have ever skied in. And if you have ever been on the St Gervais / Les Houches Crozat chair, with blue skies, and just after a snowfall, please tell me if you have ever seen a view like this one!

Whilst Chalet Prarion has been the focus of the most attention recently, there are many other beautiful luxury chalets located in Les Houches, many run by our friends, and well worth a visit too. If you would like further information on such chalets, please don't hesitate to ask as we will be happy to offer advise and recommendations to suit most budgets.