6 spots to admire the sunset in Chamonix
1. Le Brévent: a breathtaking view without too much effort
Le Brévent, it's a great classic that you never get tired of. The cable car takes you easily to the top, and once up there, the Mont-Blanc view is just incredible. At golden hour, when the sun starts to disappear behind the crests, the mountains are tinged with warm colors. You can share a bottle of local wine in front of this magnificent setting. A simple moment, but one that will remain etched in your memories.
2. Lac Blanc: a magical reflection at dusk
The Lac Blanc, it is the perfect spot for lovers of treks And of panoramas. The way to get there requires a bit of effort (allow a good hour's walk from La Flegère), but it's worth the effort. At the end of the day, the sun shaves the peaks and its reflections in the clear water of the lake are breathtaking. We often meet there alone (or almost) for the sunset in Chamonix, with this feeling of having the Mont-Blanc Massif just for yourself.
3. The Aiguille du Midi: where the magic happens
L'Aiguille du Midi is one of the highest points that can be reached effortlessly in Chamonix. You go up there by cable car and once at the top, the Panorama of the Alpsis magnificent. For the sunset in Chamonix, the snowy peaks gently color and the atmosphere becomes almost unreal. If you are looking for a bit of experience Out of time, it's clearly a place to keep your head on.
4. Montenvers: between glacier and light
Since the Terrasse du Montenvers, you have a direct view of the Mer de Glace. At the end of the day, the light shaves the glacier, the colors change minute after minute: the contrast between The ice and the sky becomes striking. It is easily accessible by the Little cogwheel train, making it a great option to enjoy a sunset in Chamonix without walking too much.
5. Planpraz: perfect for an aperitif in the mountains
Planpraz is located 2,000 meters above sea level, just before Brévent. It is one of our favorite places for a quiet end to the day, away from the hustle and bustle of the valley. The view of the Vallée Blanche, Mont-Blanc and the whole chain is superb. You can sit back comfortably, have a snack and watch the sun disappear behind the peaks.
6. The Col des Montets: for a wilder sunset
Less well known than the other spots in this article, the Col des Montets However, it is definitely worth a visit. Located between Vallorcine and Argentière, it has an unobstructed view of the surrounding mountains. The atmosphere is quieter, more raw too. At the end of the day, the light falls gently on the peaks and you can enjoy the show in complete tranquility. It's ideal for watching the sunset in Chamonix without being in the crowd.
What time to see the sunset in the Alps?
The time of sunset in Chamonix varies a lot depending on the season. In the middle of summer, the sun often disappears After 9 pm, which gives plenty of time to climb quietly up to a belvedere. On the other hand, in winter, he can lie down From 4:30 p.m. or 5 p.m.. In other words, you don't have to hang out if you want to enjoy it!
Think of Check the exact time of sunset the same day: Google or a weather application will do the trick. And keep in mind that the mountain sometimes plays with light: between peaks, ridges and valleys, the sun can pass behind a terrain well before the official time.
Tips to make sure you don't miss a thing about the sunset in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
You are ready for a simple and memorable moment, in front of one of the most beautiful shows that nature can offer. But to fully enjoy your sunset in Chamonix, here are some small reflexes that can make all the difference:
● Get a headlamp (or, if not, the flashlight on the phone): if you walk back down after sunset, it's best to see where you are setting foot.
● Pack a jacket or windbreaker, even in summer : as soon as the sun disappears, temperatures drop quickly at altitude.
● Arrive a little before bedtime : this gives you time to settle down quietly, choose your spot, have a snack or simply take advantage of the changing light.
● Respect the premises : remember to pick up your trash, stay on the trails and avoid making noise if you are not alone. The mountain is even more beautiful when everyone takes care of it.
The best hikes to do at the end of the day to see the end of the day
Do you like walking and are you looking for a nice hike to do at the end of the day? Chamonix has no shortage of itineraries perfect for Arrive right at sunset time ! Here are some ideas for accessible walks (easy to medium level), to do in the late afternoon:
● Lac Blanc (via La Flegère) : one of the most famous hikes in the area. It takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours of walking from the top of the Flegère cable car. Arriving at the lake just as the sun starts to set is just magical.
● Les Lacs des Chéserys : they are located just before Lac Blanc and it is a slightly quieter alternative. The reflection of the Aiguilles Rouges in the water at sunset is often spectacular.
● The Forbes Signal (above Montenvers) : a short but a bit steep climb from Montenvers station, with a panoramic view of the Mer de Glace and the Drus mountains as a result.
● The Plan de l'Aiguille to the Plan de l'Aiguille refuge : this short, quiet hike has superb views of the valley and Mont-Blanc, which are particularly beautiful at golden hour.
