Les Marmottes Camping Mont Blanc
I was so excited to bring my family back to our next stop – Chamonix as it was the place that made me fall in love with France last year when I took part in an incredible Coppafeel Trek in September.
We had initially booked 4 nights, but the weather was showing heavy rain and storms for the whole time we were there so we decided to treat ourselves and upgrade to a chalet and stay for two nights rather than four.
The lodge was amazing – it had everything you need except for towels and loo roll – (which you can buy at reception.)
Even though we’d only camped in the van for three nights so far, an actual bed felt like such a treat. We got some supplies from the supermarket which was only a 10 minute drive away then we explored the site. It was so strange to be back. The last time I’d been here, it had been booming with noise and nerves and excitement – I’d even managed to tick off a biggie from my living list – by crowdsurfing, beneath the stars to the sound of Florence and the machine – Dog Days Are Over -pure joy!
I loved pointing out to the kids where I’d camped and surfed and the Aguille du Midi which I’d hiked the September before. Sadly, the views I’d enjoyed were covered by cloud on this visit. I was gutted they couldn’t see the incredible views I had fallen in love with, but still – it felt super special to have them with me in a place which I had such a magical connection with.
When you camp here (and many other accommodations in Chamonix,) you’re given a Guest Card free access to trains and buses which is the perfect way to explore. The station is only about 5/10 minute walk and the day after, we boarded for the short ride into Chamonix centre. we had planned on riding the Alpine coaster but we were soooo sad to find it closed – we were here in mid-May and soon found that a lot of things were closed due to it being out of season – which picks up in June/July.
There is so much to do in Chamonix if you’re there at the right time including:
Skiing
Rafting
Paragliding
There are restaurants and bars and lovely shops with beautiful views. The colour of the rivers are beaaautiful and getting around is easy.
It’s pretty pricey here, but so is the whole of France to be fair – we were of the mindset – “let’s not think about money until we get home.” We really wanted to just enjoy and experience everything we could.
The train ride through Chamonix was STUNNING and I found myself adding ‘Orient Express’ to my living list as we chugged up mountains and through turquoise ravines. Just glorious!
Michael (yes I’m blaming it all on him) somehow had us all board the wrong train and we ended up crossing the border into Switzerland! It was exciting but also, we didn’t have our passports with us – thankfully we managed to avoid any checkpoints and the mistake quickly became part of the adventure. I also left my Ray Bans on the train…noooooooo!
I think if we went back, we would probably go later in June, before it’s super busy, but when more things are open for us to do. I could have sat on the train all day, but the kids were getting antsy after a while!
We headed back and had dinner before checking out the campsite games room, a bit of ‘snap’ and then getting ourselves to bed. There’s something so magical about sleeping amongst mountains and we all slept so well here.
Things To Do
- Take a hike for unbelievable views
- Day trip up to Aguille du Midi – drink lots of water to try and help with altitude sickness when you’re up there.
- Train ride
- Alpine Coaster
- Sit by a river
- Enjoy the beautiful life surrounding you
- So much more
Good To Be Alive! 
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