Chamonix - corporate weekend heaven
Chamonix holds a special place in the hearts of Alpinists around the world. It really does have a claim as the birthplace of mountain recreation. Originally a summer venue for the likes of Byron and Shelley to marvel at the magnificence of the mountains, Chamonix progressed to a cradle of wintersports as skiing gained popluar appeal. The culmination of this transition was Chamonix playing host to the very first Winter Olympics in 1924.
Nowadays Chamonix has recovered this sense of Alpine grandeur. Almost as if inspired by the dawn of a new millennium, the town has re-discovered its sense of purpose and pride at being arguably the most important high-mountain town on earth. After the doldrums of the eighties and nineties, Chamonix has found a burst of energy and is busy re-inventing itself as both a luxury, glamorous location and a high-octane, adrenaline-filled action centre.
Quite probably the most professionally photographed mountain backdrop in existence is a constant feature of Chamonix. The savage beauty of the jagged skyline, all overseen by the mighty snow dome capping the highest peak in Western Europe, makes for an inspirational, memorable and exciting location. These days, Chamonix has the hotels and luxury chalets to match up to the splendour of its surroundings.
The town provides an eclectic mix of quality restaurants, trendy bars, hip nightclubs, luxury shops and action-sport stores. The social life in town is amongst the best in the Alps, but the size of Chamonix means there is more than enough to keep the non-skier occupied during the day as well.
The slopes offer something for every level. Beginners and intermediates have great options at Brevent, Flegere, Le Tour and Les Houches to revel in. Advanced and expert riders can also tackle the slopes of Grand Montets or even the (guided) descent of the Vallée Blanche. For the best skiers or snowboarders amongst us, the opportunities are unparalleled – simply some of the best and most challenging off-piste skiing on earth.
With Geneva International Airport being on 1 hour away from the centre of the town, Chamonix really is the PERFECT destination for a winter corporate event or luxury break.
