|
Ski Reviews » Ski France Reviews
|
|
AVERAGE RATING 
Grenoble, a sophisticated city in the lower Alps, crackles with electricity from a high population of international students. The fortified 16th century Bastille above the town offers entrancing views of the landscape. Musee Dauphinois, below the Bastille in an ancient convent, contains exhibits ranging from Alpen life to visions of the future. The picturesque community of Annecy is endowed with vibrant gardens and shimmering lakes. A number of spas pamper and treat, with Evian-les-Bains and Aix-les-Bains being among the most visited. |
|
Chamonix
Reviewed by Bubba on 25-4-2008 (Midlands) |
| In the spring, April 12 to April 30, I went skiing in Chamonix with my family. Living in the English Midlands, so I do not get a chance to ski often, but consider myself an intermediate to advanced skier (I can do the easier Black Trails). It was close to one of the best ski trips that I've ever had, however there were some things that I wish I had known about before I went. THE GOOD First off, Chamonix is known around the world for some famous things. First it is the home of Mont Blanc. Second, it was the site of the 1934 Olympics, and has significant other historical importance. And Finally, and maybe most appealing, Chamonix is no exception to the French's obsession with naked women on skis, and it is hard not to go by a table of postcards with out one or two catching your eye. Most of all, Chamonix is world renowned for its skiing, it is arguably one of the best ski resorts that I have ever been to, its trails are almost always covered in deep powder (or at least no ice), and most of the time, it is not freezing cold (this all according to various people I talked to while I was there). During my stay, it was a little disappointing, because there was no snow for the first three days and the conditions,(according to the natives anyway) were poor. This is to say that the conditions were not spectacular, but according to me, they were still quite good. In addition, Chamonix is in the south of France, and not more than a 30-minute drive to Switzerland and a 4-hour drive into Italy. We went to both of these places while I was there, and I had a great time. There are many different places to ski in Chamonix, although you have to take a bus, you can get a ticket that lets you go everywhere. When I was there, everything was open, and we went to Le Brevent and Les Grandes Montets, both were spectacular, with great skiing conditions and nice restaurants midway up the mountain. Also, there is a decent nightlife in Chamonix, at least for the French anyway. There are many restaurants and little shops, as long as you are willing to pay. Finally, I just have to say something about the off-piste (off-trail). It is the best, I had never done it before, and Chamonix was a great place to start. They have extensive off-piste, with instructors or without. And it is only one great surprise after another. The off-piste that I skied has significant drops, jumps and trees, just what make skiing fun, right? Although it may seem dangerous, you can always ski the safer trails, but if you're looking for some great fun, ski Chamonix off-piste, you won't regret it. (Even if you do break a bone, it’s not that big a deal, because there are many prosthetic limb stores in town) THE BAD The first least pleasing aspect of Chamonix, was the constant feeling of worthlessness and intimidation that an English family like mine can feel. Although some of the French are very nice, some are not and will do nothing to try to speak the less fortunate English speaking people. Also, many very well recommended restaurants do not have English menus and require that you just take a guess at what you are getting, and sometimes this isn't too bad, but in France, its not a good risk to take. But after a few day in Chamonix the whole intimidation thing can seem silly, and you really start to feel like you own the place and really know what's going on. But it can definitely be a little scary at first. Second, the town is very crowded, and doesn't lend it self to a relaxed atmosphere. This also adds to some of the intimidation, because at first you don't really know what to do, where to go, and how to get there. Also, it can be a little claustrophobic because of all the people and cars. And the complete oblivion to driving cars that most people have doesn't help much either. In addition, Chamonix is full of long lift rides, most trail are either a long bus ride, or a very long lift up to the base. Chamonix is set up somewhat different form other resorts, and has no trails coming directly into the town (except for a few Black Diamonds), and in order to even see the slopes, you have to take a very long, enclosed, crowded lift ride up the mountain, which can be very annoying when you just want to ski. Also, Chamonix is not a town for people who don't ski, although there are many shops and restaurants, there isn't really enough to full up a day with. And finally, Chamonix has very high prices, not only is the airfare usually very expensive, but prices are always much, much higher. Don't be fooled by the French frank either; take a good mathematician with you or at least a pocket converter so that you don't get suckered into paying too much. I will admit, it is very hard not do this though, everything is expensive, food, film, clothes, prosthetic limbs, lift tickets (£200), everything. Don't go if you don't really have a whole lot of money because once you are there you are going to spend a lot. SUMMARY Chamonix is a great little ski town with just enough shops to keep the skiers busy at night, but don't try spending the whole day in town, because there really isn't enough to keep you entertained for a whole day. Also, the prices are extremely high, and bus and lift tickets cost a fortune (£200). But if you like to ski I would definitely recommend Chamonix to you. It has great conditions, many different trails, and extensive off-piste, I had a wonderful time. |
|
Was this helpful? YES - NO
53% of users found this review helpful. |
|
Return to Ski Reviews Reviews |
