Chamonix Mountain Adventures - Hilary Sharp

Discover the full range of summer adventures available in one of the world's great mountain destinations, from easy family walks and hut-to-hut treks in the shadow of Mont Blanc to alpine mountaineering on the Cosmiques Arête, via ferratas, rock climbing, bouldering, mountain biking, and road cycling. With something for every level of ability and ambition, Chamonix offers an unrivalled variety of mountain activities within one of the most spectacular alpine settings in Europe. Suitable for families, groups of friends, and experienced mountaineers alike, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook brings together over 80 routes and activities across eight disciplines in and around the Chamonix valley. Routes range from easy lakeside strolls accessible to all the family to moderate rock climbs and glacier routes requiring technical skills or a professional guide. Choose from over 80 routes and activities across walking, alpine mountaineering, mountain biking, road cycling, via ferratas, rock climbing, bouldering, and trail running, covering the full Chamonix valley from Les Houches and Les Contamines in the west to Vallorcine and the Col des Montets in the east. Tackle alpine mountaineering routes including the Cosmiques Arête, the Aiguille du Tour, the Petite Aiguille Verte, and the classic Normal Route on Mont Blanc itself, with clear guidance on the technical skills and experience required for each ascent. Explore the Chamonix valley on two wheels with 10 mountain biking routes, including the Petit Balcon Nord and the Vallorcine to Martigny descent, and 4 road cycling routes, including the Col des Montets and the descent of the Col de la Forclaz. Discover the area's best rock climbing at crags including Les Gaillands, the Index, and the Aiguillette d'Argentière, alongside 5 bouldering areas and 4 via ferratas, including the dramatic route at Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. Walk to mountain huts including the Refuge du Lac Blanc, Refuge Albert Premier, and Refuge de Tré-la-Tête, with classic walks taking in the Mer de Glace, the Aiguilles Rouges, and Lac Blanc, and family-friendly routes including the dinosaur tracks and the Bérard valley. Plan your Chamonix summer adventure with comprehensive practical information on getting there and around, accommodation, when to go, health and safety, glacier travel techniques, and the lift systems that open up the high mountain terrain from mid-June to mid-September. Experience the full range of adventures Chamonix has to offer with confidence using this trusted Cicerone guidebook. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned alpine regular, this is the essential companion for a multi-activity summer holiday in the shadow of Mont Blanc.