Les Houches

Les Houches is a traditional Savoyard village in France's Chamonix Valley, with real alpine character and a relaxed pace that appeals to skiers looking for a holiday on the quiet side. The setting is spectacular, with views across to Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles peaks framing every run. As a ski destination, it combines accessible terrain with a welcoming atmosphere that keeps visitors returning year after year, with a season that typically runs from mid-December through early April.

Skiing and snowboarding spreads across 55km of local pistes between 990m and 1,900m, with the Mont Blanc Unlimited pass connecting to the wider Chamonix Valley. The mountain is best known for hosting the famous Kandahar downhill course, one of the most challenging on the World Cup circuit. But day-to-day, Les Houches is remarkably friendly territory for intermediate skiers and improving beginners. Tree-lined runs offer shelter on stormy days, while the varied terrain includes everything from gentle nursery slopes to proper blacks that will test confident skiers.

Beyond the pistes, the village centre has welcoming restaurants and bars without the pretension or prices of Chamonix itself. Visitors appreciate the manageable scale, where you can walk to most places, and there's a local feel rather than resort sprawl. For day trips, the Montenvers railway to the Mer de Glace glacier and the Aiguille du Midi cable car are just a short drive away.