France
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Región: Northern Alps
Situated at the heart of Mont-Blanc’s uplands, this familial ski resort with hamlets chain respects the traditional picture of a mountain stay.
Houches’ ski resort is situated in Haute-Savoie, in Charmonix’s valley, at 6 km from worldwide skiing and mountaineering capital. Les Houches are part of the grouping of 15 municipalities : Espace Mont-Blanc. You will be able to go all over legendary “Verte des Houches” which is World Cup’s downhill slope or peacefully go down on traced ski trails in forest, in an exceptionnal panorama in Aiguilles de Chamonix.
Les Houches’ municipality spreads over 8 km between Servoz and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, on both sides of Arve’s valley on 2 slopes of mountain ranges : Mont-Blanc in the east and Aiguilles Rouge in the west.
Spreading over 5000 hectares, Houches’ village is made up of many hamlets which contributes to keep its village soul of Chamonix’s valley.
Every hamlet has a true interest : cultural, sportive or touristic … Les Houches’ skiing area spreads over 950 and 1900 m of altitude in an exceptionnal panorama on Mont-Blanc’s uplands : 55 km of traced ski trails in forest allow to discover all pleasures of board sports : for beginners with an equipped area in the summit of Prarion’s cable car, for freestyle lovers with a snowpark situated near Schuss des Dames’ ski lift.
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Skiing in Les Houches: the resort’s strong points
The most elegant entrance to the Chamonix valley
Located just 6 km from Chamonix, between 950 and 1,900 meters above sea level, the resort of Les Houches is the natural gateway to the Mont-Blanc ski area. Its setting, facing the Mont Blanc massif and the Aiguille du Midi, offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Alps.
Unlike other more vertical and sporty resorts in the valley, Les Houches has retained an authentic, family-friendly and balanced identity, where skiing is enjoyed with serenity and elegance.
An ideal domain for all levels
The Les Houches ski area has 55 km of slopes spread across forests, meadows, and panoramic balconies. Its varied terrain allows for both technical skiing and family skiing, with areas perfectly suited to beginners, children, and mixed groups.
The highest point, Bellevue (1,900 m), offers direct access to the Tour du Mont Blanc and the routes to the Bionnassay glacier. The orientation and vegetation guarantee excellent snow quality even in the warmer months of the season.
The legendary “Verte des Houches” slope
Les Houches is famous in the skiing world for its “Verte des Houches” slope, one of the most iconic on the FIS World Cup circuit.
Every winter, it hosts the Kandahar race, which brings together the best skiers on the planet. With a vertical drop of 870 m and slopes reaching 30%, this course is a symbol of French technical skiing and the resort’s sporting spirit.
A family-friendly and accessible resort
Certified with the Famille Plus label, Les Houches offers facilities that are perfectly suited to families and beginners. Snow gardens with professional supervision, wide, safe, and well-marked green and blue slopes, nurseries, sledding areas, and a progressive snowpark. Its ski school (ESF Les Houches) has an excellent reputation for its teaching methods and the friendly attitude of its instructors.
Nature, sustainability, and balance
Les Houches is part of the Parc Naturel Régional du Mont-Blanc, and its tourism management is based on a model of balance between skiing and environmental conservation.
The town council and the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, which is responsible for operating the ski area, have implemented pioneering measures. These include 100% renewable energy for the ski lifts, optimized water use in snow production, reforestation of eroded areas, and environmental awareness in local schools.
This commitment has positioned it as a benchmark for responsible tourism in the Chamonix Valley.
Activities beyond skiing
Les Houches offers a wide range of winter activities. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to the Col de Voza or the Bionnassay glacier. Mushing (dog sledding), and wellness experiences in hotels with spas and views of Mont Blanc. In summer, the area is transformed into a true paradise for hiking, paragliding, and mountain biking, being one of the most beautiful stages of the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB).
A village that is alive all year round
The heart of Les Houches beats with local life. Far from the hustle and bustle of Chamonix, it retains the atmosphere of an authentic mountain village, with shops, bakeries, markets, and restaurants where Savoyard cuisine continues to play a leading role.
Traditional stone and wood chalets coexist with modern, eco-friendly hotels, creating a perfect balance between tradition and contemporary comfort.
Accessibility and international connections
Les Houches is one of the most accessible resorts in the Mont-Blanc valley. It is a 15-minute drive from Chamonix and 1 hour from Geneva, connected by the Mont-Blanc Express train and regular buses. Its location makes it an ideal starting point for those who want to enjoy the Chamonix ski area without sacrificing tranquility.
Expert tips from I Love Ski
- Ski early on the Kandahar – Verte des Houches slope to enjoy the best grip and fewer crowds.
- On windy days at high altitudes, Les Houches offers protected conditions thanks to its forests.
- Don’t miss the Mont-Blanc tramway, which connects to the Nid d’Aigle (2,372 m), one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region.
- If you are traveling with children, the Prarion sector is perfect: views, sunshine, and wide slopes.
