Getting to Chamonix
Just one hour away from Geneva, the Chamonix valley is one of the easiest of the French mountain resorts to get to from the UK and now, with low cost airlines and special deals on ferry crossings, it is also one of the most affordable.
By plane
Several low cost airlines offer direct flights to Geneva from various UK airports. For the lowest prices it is best to book early.
There are also scheduled airlines offering flights to Geneva:
Transfers from Geneva Airport
Shuttle or private hire transfers are the easiest way of traveling to and from Geneva Airport as you are picked up from the airport with little or no waiting and dropped off at your accommodation doorstep. We are able to arrange transfers for you on request.
Car Hire
Many people find it useful to have their own vehicle in the Chamonix valley to have the freedom to explore all the ski areas within their own schedule. There are several car hire companies within Geneva Airport to choose from.
For the best prices and availability, booking your car hire in advance is highly recommended especially in high seasons. We are happy to arrange your car hire for you and can also make arrangements for you to hire a car once you are in Chamonix. Please contact us with your requirements for a quote.
Directions from Geneva
- From Geneva, take the A40 and follow signs to Chamonix (tolls €1.70 + €3.60)
- After 80kms you will go over a viaduct into the Chamonix valley
- Les Houches is the first ski resort that you come to as you enter the Chamonix valley (after second tunnel)
By car from the UK
Self drive is a cost effective means of traveling to Chamonix and also offers greater flexibility and the opportunity to bring more luggage and ski equipment.
- EuroTunnel can be used for the fastest channel crossing (35 mins).
- HoverSpeed operate regular services on the Dover-Calais route. Journey time is usually 35 mins by Hovercraft and 50 mins by Seacat.
The journey to Chamonix by car takes approximately 8 - 10 hours from Calais and has excellent road links. The Autoroute Blanche motorway gives you direct access to Chamonix. There are tolls on the motorway which accept cash and credit cards. If coming in the winter it is best to be prepared and buy snow chains for the journey up to Chamonix. Most garages en route will sell them, or you can hire/buy them before you leave (see below).
- The Roof Box Company: Online ordering for snow chains, roof boxes and ski racks
- Snowchains.co.uk: Snow chains to hire and buy, plus roof boxes and ski racks to hire. Located 5 mins from the A20 in Kent, enabling you to pick up and return goods on the way to Dover/Folkstone (24hr drop off facility).
Please remember to get European breakdown cover for your journey - these companies can also offer advice for driving in France.
- RAC: Online motoring advice, route planners, breakdown insurance
- AA: Online motoring advice, breakdown insurance
- Green Flag: Online motoring advice, breakdown insurance
Checklist of things to remember whilst driving in France:
- It is compulsory to carry your full UK Drivers License when driving in France
- Your car registration documents/log book must be carried with you at all times
- A Green Card and Motor Insurance certificate is recommended. Motorists should carry evidence of motor insurance (insurance certificate). A Green Card provides additional proof that the minimum legal third party cover is held. For further advice, please contact your insurance company
- Adequate breakdown cover
- Headlamp converters are compulsory - UK vehicles are designed for driving on the left hand side of the road this will mean that when driving in France you will dazzle oncoming drivers
- Warning triangles are required and must be placed 50 - 150 metres behind your vehicle to warn approaching traffic if your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident
- A first aid kit must be carried in your vehicle at all times when driving in France
- Wearing your seatbelt is compulsory
- Children under 10 are forbidden to travel in the front seat
- All radar detection equipment is prohibited
- Motorway tolls are charged
- Petrol, diesel and LPG is available. Lead replacement petrol (LRP) is available and is indicated on pumps as 'supercarburant'
- Snow chains, De-icer, Scraper etc...
- Journey and accommodation directions - please click 'View Larger Map' below the Google Map above for step by step directions to Chamonix
By train
You can travel by train from London to St Gervais, which is 20 minutes away from Chamonix. The Eurostar train leaves Waterloo every evening via Paris and provides a connection to the overnight train to St Gervais. We can arrange transfers from St Gervais to Chamonix.
By coach
Travelling by coach is one of the cheapest ways to get to Chamonix and the journey takes around 20 hours.
- Eurolines offer a direct coach service from London Victoria coach station at bargain prices. Coaches normally depart on a Friday afternoon and arrive at Chamonix train station at lunchtime on Saturday. For further details, visit the EuroLines website or contact EuroLines on 08705 143219.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any other queries regarding getting here.
We wish you a safe and pleasant journey and look forward to your visit to Chamonix.