Where to Stay: Options for All Budgets

Accommodation Types

Mountain Refuges For authentic mountain experiences, refuges offer basic accommodation at altitude. Expect dormitory sleeping, communal meals, and limited facilities. Prices range €50-70 per night with half-board. Book well in advance for popular routes.

Camping Multiple campgrounds offer budget accommodation: - Les Deux Glaciers: Central location, open year-round - L'Île des Barrats: Family-friendly with good facilities - Mer de Glace: Quieter option in Les Praz Prices: €10-25 per person/night

Hostels and Budget Hotels - Chamonix Youth Hostel: Modern facilities, kitchen access (€25-40/night) - Hotel El Paso: Basic but clean, central location (€60-90/night) - Gîtes throughout valley offer apartment-style accommodation

Mid-Range Hotels - Hotel Croix Blanche: Traditional charm, central location (€100-180/night) - Excelsior: Family-run, good breakfast (€120-200/night) - RockyPop: Modern design hotel with entertainment (€90-150/night)

Luxury Accommodations - Hameau Albert 1er: Five-star luxury with Michelin dining (€400-800/night) - Mont-Blanc Collection: Historic properties with modern amenities (€300-600/night) - Private chalets: Full-service options for groups (€5,000-20,000/week)

Choosing Your Location

Chamonix Town Center Pros: Maximum amenities, nightlife, transport hub Cons: Crowded, expensive, limited parking

Les Houches Pros: Family-friendly, beginner skiing, quieter Cons: Less nightlife, requires transport to Chamonix center

Argentière Pros: Authentic village feel, great skiing access, fewer crowds Cons: Limited services, further from main attractions

Les Praz/La Flégère Pros: Sunny location, golf course, peaceful Cons: Residential feel, limited dining options

Vallorcine Pros: Very quiet, authentic, good hiking Cons: Remote, minimal services, transport dependent

Booking Considerations

Seasonal Pricing - Peak: Christmas/New Year, February holidays, July-August - Shoulder: January, March, June, September - Low: April-May, October-November

Booking Platforms - Direct booking often offers best rates and flexibility - Tourist office accommodation service helps during busy periods - Vacation rental platforms for longer stays - Consider cancellation policies given mountain weather

Accessibility - Many hotels offer adapted rooms (specify needs when booking) - Ground floor accommodations available - Elevators not guaranteed in older properties - Service animal policies vary