From this season you really will be spoilt for choice, since the
validity of the MONT BLANC Unlimited ski pass has been extended.
As well as all that Chamonix has to offer, this pass now not only
covers Courmayeur with free bus trips and discounted car rates through
the tunnel, but also Les Houches, and all 4 valleys of the Verbier
ski area.
A new beginner’s ski area has been created in Les Houches
at the summit of the Prarion lift,, There is also a new “ecole”
chairlift, and a ‘magic carpet’ lfor beginners. www.compagniedumontblanc.com
Ski Lifts
To increase client comfort, the 2nd stage cabins on the Grand Montets
téléphérique lift were replaced in the autumn
with brand new cabins that have been re-styled in the MONT BLANC
unlimited colours. The 1st stage cabins have also had a face lift
and been renovated inside and out.
A new 4-seater fixed chairlift has been installed at Les Planards.
Ski Passes
Conscious that family ski holidays can be expensive, both CHAMONIX
Le Pass (excluding the 4hr pass), and the MONTBLANC Unlimited pass
offer a family discount, whereby parents pay the adult price, the
1st child (aged 4-15) is 50% of the adult price, and all other children’s
passes are free..
From this year, both CHAMONIX Le Pass and MONTBLANC Unlimited (2
days and over) are only available as hands free badges which are
rechargeable on-line. The badges cost €3, which is non refundable.
Information
A huge new multi-media panel, measuring 4m x 3m has been installed
at the arrival of the Lognan Telecabin. This is linked directly
to the central computer of the Compagnie du Mont Blanc, thus offering
real time information and video transmission.
The network of ambassadors on the piste has been increased, to ensure
an even more complete information service for visitors
Train Station
There is now direct train access to the foot of Aiguille du Midi,
thanks to a new train station “Chamonix-Aiguille du Midi”.
Opened on the 5th July, it allows passengers who catch the train
to Saint Gervais to then change onto the small express valley train,
which comes up the Valley.
Vertical Café
& Shop
This season sees the opening of the Vertical Café & Shop
within the new departure station of the Aiguille du Midi cable car,
comprising 3 distinct areas:
A lounge waiting room, where you can chat with your guide before
doing the Vallée Blanche or simply relax until it’s
time to catch your lift up the Aiguille du Midi
A cafeteria serving delicious food and drinks to eat-in or take
away
A fabulous gift shop packed brim full of articles chosen for
their excellent value for money.
Relaxation
Pure-Fix Massage - After an arduous day on the
slopes, treat yourself to relaxing massage in the comfort of your
own chalet. Pure-Fix therapists are fully mobile and will visit
your accommodation for a professional treatment from 8am –
10pm.
Privilege Alps
Card
This newly launched discount card costs €10 to buy and can
be used in over 39 outlets around town, inc. the ESF, and many of
the bars and restaurants in town. It will even save you €12
off the price of your 6-day MONTBLANC Unlimited ski pass. It is
available at numerous sales points, or order it on-line at www.privilegealps.com
Shops
Le Chalet du Chocolat - Chocoholics can rejoice,
as a wonderful new artisan chocolatier has opened in the centre
of Chamonix, near the Casino.
Apres Ski
The VB Bar - For tourists that like their après
ski at a slightly less frenetic pace, look no further than the new
VB bar, situated in the Vallée Blanche hotel. Run by Jerry,
there is a happy hour from 5-6pm; the bar serves pub food and snacks
from 5pm – 9pm and regularly hosts live music 4 x a week.
The Rusticana - New owners means a new lease of
life for this infamous bar and restaurant up in Argentière.
Posh John bows out after 7 years at the helm to make way for Sven,
a well known personality, bar man and entrepreneur.
Corre El Tiempo – Lovers of Tex Mex food
can rejoice as a new restaurant has opened in the Rue du Lyret,
near the centre of town. If you fancy a few margaritas, some nachos
or fajitas, a great steak or any of the other classics – it
Mex perfect sense to visit.
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