Les Houches - Beautiful nature view
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Les Houches

4.6
·491k reviews·Les Houches, France

Charming alpine village, gateway to the Tour du Mont Blanc and a family-friendly ski resort with stunning Mont Blanc vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal for TMB hiking

CrowdMedium
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Les Houches - Beautiful nature view

Les Houches

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal for TMB hiking

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charming alpine village, gateway to the Tour du Mont Blanc and a family-friendly ski resort with stunning Mont Blanc vistas.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Les Houches offers breathtaking Mont Blanc views and is a perfect start for the TMB trek."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎒 Pack for TMB

Essential gear for the Tour du Mont Blanc includes sturdy boots, layers, and rain protection.

🐾 Animal Encounters

Visit Parc de Merlet for close-up views of alpine animals with Mont Blanc as a backdrop.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tour du Mont Blanc Start

Tour du Mont Blanc Start

Les Houches Village

The iconic starting point for the TMB trek, offering stunning Mont Blanc views.

TikTokInstagram
Parc de Merlet

Parc de Merlet

Above Les Houches

An animal park with diverse wildlife and breathtaking panoramas of the Mont Blanc massif.

TikTok+1
Les Houches Ski Resort

Les Houches Ski Resort

Les Houches

A family-friendly ski area perfect for beginners and intermediates with beautiful mountain vistas.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

TMB Trailhead & Early Stages

Les Houches is a key starting point for the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB). Many hikers begin their trek here, so expect a lively atmosphere. Plan your accommodation and gear well in advance, especially during peak season, as Les Houches hotels and Les Houches accommodation fill up quickly. TikTokInstagram

Skiing & Family Fun

While known for TMB, Les Houches also offers family-friendly skiing. The Les Houches ski resort is ideal for beginners and intermediates. Consider booking ski hire in Les Houches France ahead of time to secure your equipment. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for TMB hiking
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter mornings
Why
Best for Les Houches skiing
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

TOUR DU MONT BLANC Day 1. Les Houches to La Rollaz #tmb #backpacking #tourdumontblanc #Hiking #france🇫🇷 #fyp
@abecketttt
34.7K likes • 219.4K views

🎒 Pack for TMB

Essential gear for the Tour du Mont Blanc includes sturdy boots, layers, and rain protection. TikTokInstagram+1

🐾 Animal Encounters

Visit Parc de Merlet for close-up views of alpine animals with Mont Blanc as a backdrop. TikTok+1

I climbed Mont Blanc solo in a 10h push from Les Houses during the night. #montblanc #mountain #mountaineering #climbing #alps #Hiking #alpinism
@alpenninja
18.9K likes • 305.4K views
DAY 1 💕🇮🇹 Over the next 11 days I’ll be sharing daily vlogs from our trek on the Tour du Mont Blanc. It’s 105 miles (170 km) with nearly 32,000 ft (10,000 m) of elevation gain, circling the Mont Blanc massif through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Most people hike it in 8–12 days, and the best part is you can stay in huts every night if you want. We started in Courmayeur, Italy since that’s how o...
weeden_wanders
123 likes • 3.9K views

⛷️ Ski Lessons

Book ski instructor Les Houches in advance for lessons at the family-friendly resort. Reddit

🥾 TMB Day 1 Options

Many start TMB from Les Houches, heading towards Refuge Miage or Col de Tricot. Instagram+2

Jour 1 : les houches - refuge de la balme ⛺️ Abonne toi pour voir si j’ai survécu à la tempête du jour 2 🌪️ #trek #tmb #randonnée #rando
vadrouilleur2.0
7.5K likes • 151.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎒 Pack for TMB

Essential gear for the Tour du Mont Blanc includes sturdy boots, layers, and rain protection. TikTokInstagram+1

🐾 Animal Encounters

Visit Parc de Merlet for close-up views of alpine animals with Mont Blanc as a backdrop. TikTok+1

⛷️ Ski Lessons

Book ski instructor Les Houches in advance for lessons at the family-friendly resort. Reddit

🥾 TMB Day 1 Options

Many start TMB from Les Houches, heading towards Refuge Miage or Col de Tricot. Instagram+2

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Les Houches is praised for its stunning Mont Blanc views and its role as a gateway to the Tour du Mont Blanc. Visitors enjoy the family-friendly ski resort and the unique experience at Parc de Merlet. Some find it quieter than Chamonix, which can be a pro or con depending on preference.

What People Like

Spectacular Mont Blanc views
TMB starting point
Family-friendly skiing

What People Dislike

Quieter than Chamonix

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common route is a bus transfer from Geneva Airport to Chamonix, which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. From Chamonix, local buses or taxis can take you to Les Houches. TikTok

Yes, Les Houches is well-connected by local bus services from Chamonix, making it easy to reach for TMB hikers and skiers. TikTok

Regular bus services run between Les Houches and Chamonix, offering a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two areas. TikTok

Yes, Les Houches is accessible by car. Parking is available, but can be limited during peak ski season or TMB trekking periods. TikTok

While direct shuttles to Les Houches might be less common, many services go to Chamonix, from where you can easily connect to Les Houches. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is recommended to book your tickets for Parc de Merlet online in advance, especially during busy periods, to guarantee entry. TikTok

Opening hours for Parc de Merlet vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

Yes, a ski pass is required to access the slopes at the Les Houches ski resort. Prices vary depending on the duration and type of pass. Reddit

Information on family discounts for Parc de Merlet is usually available on their website. It's worth checking for any special offers. TikTok

You can typically buy ski passes on the day at the Les Houches ski resort ticket offices, but booking online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially money. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Hiking & Trekking

Absolutely! Les Houches is a very popular starting point for the TMB, offering direct access to the trails and stunning views from day one. TikTokInstagram+2

Day one often involves hiking from Les Houches towards destinations like Refuge Miage, Col de Tricot, or Refuge de la Balme, covering significant elevation gain. Instagram+2

The initial stages from Les Houches can be challenging with considerable elevation gain, but offer rewarding scenery. It's a good test of your fitness. Instagram+1

Yes, there are mountain refuges and gîtes available along the TMB route, such as Refuge de la Balme and Refuge Miage, which are popular stops after starting in Les Houches. Instagram+1

While most start counter-clockwise, you can hike the TMB in reverse from Les Houches. Be aware that trail markings might be more geared towards the standard direction. TikTokInstagram

🎫 ⛷️ Skiing & Snowboarding

Yes, Les Houches is highly recommended for beginner and intermediate skiers due to its gentle slopes and dedicated learning areas. Reddit

Several ski hire shops are available in Les Houches, including Balmat Sports, Battendier Sports, and Bellevue Sports, offering ski hire Les Houches France. TikTok

Les Houches itself is a ski resort, but it's also a good base for accessing other areas in the Chamonix valley like Grand Montets and Brévent. TikTok

Many families choose Les Houches for its charming atmosphere and beginner-friendly slopes, offering a slightly quieter alternative to Chamonix center. Reddit

Les Houches generally receives good snow cover during the winter season, making it a reliable destination for skiing. TikTok

🍽️ 🏨 Accommodation & Dining

Les Houches offers a range of Les Houches accommodation, including hotels (like Hotel Elena Les Houches, Hotel Beau Site Les Houches), apartments, and chalets. Airbnb Les Houches France is also an option. TikTok

Yes, Les Houches has options like hostels (Hostel Les Houches) and more affordable guesthouses, though booking in advance is advised. TikTok

While specific restaurant recommendations vary, exploring local eateries in the village center will offer traditional Savoyard cuisine. TikTok

Les Houches is often preferred by families and beginner skiers for its charm and gentler slopes, while Chamonix offers more nightlife and dining options. Reddit

Some Les Houches ski in ski out properties are available, offering direct access to the slopes, which is ideal for skiers. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Les Houches is a fantastic choice for families. The Les Houches ski resort is known for its beginner-friendly slopes, making it perfect for children learning to ski. Reddit Beyond skiing, Parc de Merlet offers an exciting opportunity for kids to see alpine animals up close with the majestic Mont Blanc as a backdrop. TikTok+1 Consider booking accommodation that offers family amenities, and look into ski hire options in advance to streamline your trip. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Les Houches offers some more affordable accommodation options, including hostels. TikTok Utilizing the local bus services from Chamonix is a cost-effective way to get around. TikTok For TMB hikers, staying in mountain refuges is generally more economical than hotels, and packing your own snacks can also help save money on the trail. Instagram+1

🥾 Tour du Mont Blanc Trekkers

Les Houches is an ideal starting or ending point for the TMB. Plan your itinerary carefully, as the first stages can be challenging. TikTokInstagram+1 Book your mountain refuges well in advance, as they fill up quickly. Instagram+1 Ensure you have appropriate gear for varied mountain weather and terrain. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Tour du Mont Blanc: A Hiker's Dream

Les Houches serves as a pivotal gateway for the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), one of the most celebrated long-distance hiking trails in Europe. This 170km (105 mile) circuit encircles the Mont Blanc massif, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. TikTokInstagram+1 Many hikers choose Les Houches as their starting point, often heading counter-clockwise. The initial stages from Les Houches can be demanding, with significant elevation gains, but they immediately immerse you in the breathtaking alpine scenery. Popular first-day destinations include Refuge Miage or Col de Tricot, offering spectacular views and a true taste of the TMB experience. Instagram+2

Planning is crucial for TMB trekkers starting in Les Houches. Booking accommodation in mountain refuges or gîtes well in advance is essential, especially during the summer months. Consider the weather, which can change rapidly in the mountains, and pack accordingly with layers, waterproofs, and sturdy hiking boots. TikTokInstagram+1 The TMB is more than just a hike; it's an immersive journey through diverse landscapes and cultures, with Les Houches providing the perfect launchpad for this unforgettable adventure. Instagram

Les Houches for Skiers and Families

Beyond its fame as a TMB trailhead, Les Houches is a charming ski resort that caters particularly well to families and beginner to intermediate skiers. The Les Houches ski resort offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling center of Chamonix, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter mountain experience. Reddit The slopes are generally wider and gentler, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children and novice skiers to learn and progress. Reddit

Families will appreciate the accessibility and the range of services available, including ski hire Les Houches France and ski schools. TikTokReddit While it might not offer the extreme terrain for expert skiers, Les Houches provides a solid foundation for enjoying the winter wonderland of the Chamonix Valley. The stunning backdrop of Mont Blanc enhances the skiing experience, making it a picturesque destination for a winter getaway. Reddit

Discovering Wildlife at Parc de Merlet

For a unique encounter with alpine fauna, a visit to Parc de Merlet above Les Houches is highly recommended. This animal park offers visitors the chance to see a variety of mountain animals in a semi-natural environment, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif. TikTok+2 You can observe species like chamois, ibex, marmots, and deer, often at close range, making for fantastic photo opportunities and an educational experience for all ages. TikTok+1

It's advisable to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure entry. TikTok The park is accessible via a scenic drive or hike from Les Houches, and the combination of wildlife and spectacular mountain vistas makes it a memorable excursion. TikTok+1 Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there is walking involved within the park. TikTok

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