Argentiere resort guide - a general overview
Argentière, located in the Chamonix Valley, is renowned for its exceptional skiing terrain, particularly suited for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The Grands Montets area is the highlight, offering challenging pistes and extensive off-piste options in good conditions. The top station at 3,275 meters ensures reliable snow cover throughout the season. For those seeking variety, the Chamonix Le Pass and Mont Blanc Unlimited ski passes provide access to multiple areas within the valley, including Brévent-Flégère, Le Tour, and even across the border to Courmayeur in Italy.
The old village of Argentière is a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle of Chamonix. It is much quieter but there are still plenty of hotels, bars and restaurants to choose from. Access to the ski area at the head of the valley at La Tour is very easy, but you have to rely on a bus service, or drive yourself to the lift station.
Having spent many ski holidays in Argentiere and the Chamonix valley we can honestly say that you won't be disappointed as it is more than just a ski holiday, it is an overall Alpine experience.
There are a growing number of quality ski chalets in Argentiere well worth considering as they tend to be less expensive than those in the more popular resort of Chamonix down the valley.
Resort stats
152km
1,240m - 3,840m
Level of skiing
- Beginners
- Intermediates
- Experts
- Snow sure
- Off-piste
- Ski area
Qualities
- Charm factor
- Non-skiers
- Nightlife
- Resort layout
- Fine dining
- Short transfer
- Resort value
Airports
- Geneva
- 1hr 15mins
11 ski chalets in Argentiere View All
Argentiere, France
Chalet Zenith 1
Average Price
Sold OutArgentiere, France
Chalet Quartz
Average Price
£1,673 ppArgentiere, France
Chalet Big Bear
Average Price
Sold OutPros and Cons
Pros
- Access to world-class off-piste skiing
- A wide variety of resorts covered on the same pass
- Quiet village but the bustle of Chamonix is nearby if you want more
- Only an hour from Geneva - great for weekends!
- Excellent snow record early and late season
Cons
- Not suited to beginners and quite limited for intermediate skiers
- Several separate mountains so mixed groups are likely to split up
- Exposed in bad weather
- A less than perfect bus service between resorts (best to hire a car)
Restaurants
Argentiere Resort Restaurants
Dining in Argentière includes both cozy mountain huts and refined restaurants. Les Rondins, located at the base of the Grands Montets, is perfect for a hearty meal after a day on the slopes. For something more upscale, La Remise offers a delightful blend of traditional Savoyard and contemporary cuisine, with a charming rustic ambiance. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like fondue and raclette.
Argentiere Mountain Restaurants
Due to the extensive area covered by your lift pass, there are plenty of mountain restaurants to choose from for your lunch. The options range from cosy chalet-style restaurants serving gourmet cuisine to big self-service sun decks where you can grab a quick bite. Marmottens Bar is a popular spot with classic self-service mountain food. For something more special, head to Cerro Catedral, located at the foot of the Argentière glacier. This hidden gem has been family-run since 1926, serving an exquisite Savoyarde menu. For something unique, skilled skiers can traverse across to La Refuge de l'Ognon to enjoy a croque monsieur and a bowl of hot chocolate.
Argentiere Apres Ski
While Argentière is more relaxed compared to larger resorts, it still offers a vibrant après-ski scene. The Office Bar is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, known for its lively atmosphere and extensive drinks menu. For a more laid-back evening, try the Rusticana Bar, which features live music and a welcoming environment.
Argentiere Nightlife
For a more bustling nightlife, Chamonix is the place to be. Popular spots include La Folie Douce for a high-energy après-ski party and L'Amnesia for dancing until the early hours.
Funicular
Cable Car
Gondola
Chair lift
Drag lift
Property
