New Year’s Eve in Chamonix
What if you spent the Christmas holidays in the mountains? Enjoy the charm of mountain villages, the joys of the mountains, and the festive (...)
Located in the north-west of the French Alps, the valley of Chamonix is home to the world-famous Mont Blanc, the highest mountain peak in Western Europe. Towering over the surroundings with its summit reaching 4,810 m, it greatly influences the Chamonix weather system and imparts every season with mountainous characteristics. When planning a holiday in Chamonix, taking the weather into account is especially important. As most of the activities you may want to participate in may be set outdoors, taking advantage of the climate to enjoy them to the fullest is a wonderful idea.
Chamonix Weather – Mountain Climate
Cooler and generally wetter than the national average, Chamonix weather is quite representative of mountain climates where, in winter, precipitation almost always takes the form of snow. By contrast, Alpine summers boast high temperatures (often reaching 30° C), though variations are to be expected as the altitude changes.
When staying at our hotel in Chamonix, you’ll be able to make the most out of your stay regardless of Chamonix’s weather forecast, though some months are typically more clement than others.
Chamonix Weather – Spring / Summer
In the beginning of spring, snow depths are still excellent, and the longer days start to gently warm up the air. With the Easter holidays around the corner, regular snowfalls are still most welcome and allow sports enthusiasts to continue to appreciate winter activities in Chamonix. This time of year, whether you prefer to hit the powdery slopes or to sunbathe, you will be able to do so amid the magical atmosphere set by the delicate colours of early budding flowers illuminating the white backdrops. In May, as the ski season ends, hiking trails reopen for walkers and bikers to enjoy long, cool days where the vegetation is bursting with life. While the high temperatures (and stormy evenings) of midsummer are still a few weeks away, Chamonix weather at this time of year allows vacationers to start practicing water activities. As of July, the sometimes-extreme heat of the day causes frequent thunderstorms. Rafting, canyoning or simply hanging by the pool is highly recommended! Other ways to escape the heat include getting some altitude. Indian summers in the mountain are pure magic. The now-quiet surroundings are an invitation to slow down and to admire nature finally doing the same. Everything turns red and gold and the sun, lower on its axis, shines a warmer light over the slopes and the valley. The Chamonix weather forecast will start to announce rainy days while everyone patiently awaits the first snowfalls.
Chamonix Weather – Autumn / Winter
As the days shorten, the air becomes cooler and the higher slopes even start to open. The sun still likes to make an appearance, though more rarely. Gradually, the snow line gets lower and, by the Christmas holidays, you’re certain to be able to take advantage of all the winter activities! In the heart of the icy season, the brightness of the sun continues to mitigate the low temperatures and allows vacationers to enjoy a nice beverage at the terrace of a café by the slopes. January is considered one of the most amazing months for snow. It usually falls heavily, and the very cold temperatures mean that the white blanket isn’t going anywhere. Skiers, snowboarders and other winter sports enthusiasts know to appreciate its long-lasting powdery quality. Between Chamonix weather effectively being at its best and the quietness the pistes recover once the New Year rush has passed, those who decide to take a holiday in the middle of winter are in for a treat. In February, schools are out and family fun begins again. As the snow continues to fall and remain, off-piste lovers can enjoy practicing in places which were previously inaccessible. While snow storms do happen, they are relatively rare and, most of the time, making sure you don’t run out of sunblock is actually even more important.
Old folk wisdom uses the Mont Blanc itself to know what Chamonix’s weather will be like. According to the legend, if a cloud settles at the top of the peak and then starts to come down and cover the mountain, bad weather will ensue. As if we needed another reason to keep our eyes on the beautiful summit!
