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Les Contamines-Montjoie: Alpine Charm at Mont Blanc's Foot

Discover Les Contamines-Montjoie: An authentic alpine village at the foot of Mont Blanc, offering year-round outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and a rich cultural heritage.

Les Contamines-Montjoie, nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, is an authentic Savoyard village offering a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and traditional alpine charm. Renowned for its exceptional snow cover in winter and lush green landscapes in summer, it's a haven for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The village boasts a rich history, with well-preserved baroque churches and traditional farm buildings adding to its picturesque appeal. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities on the slopes or tranquil moments amidst breathtaking scenery, Les Contamines-Montjoie promises an unforgettable alpine experience. Explore the vast ski area, hike through the nature reserve, or simply soak in the stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif. With its family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to sustainable tourism, Les Contamines-Montjoie is a true gem in the heart of the French Alps.

A brief summary to Les Contamines-Montjoie

  • Les Contamines-Montjoie, FR

Local tips

  • Visit the Notre-Dame de la Gorge church, a stunning example of baroque architecture, located a short distance from the village.
  • Explore the Contamines Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife and a paradise for hikers, with diverse flora and fauna and breathtaking views.
  • In winter, take advantage of the excellent snow cover and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or other winter activities in the vast Evasion Mont-Blanc ski area.
  • In summer, hike to the Lacs Jovet, a series of alpine lakes offering stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle bus service in and around the village to explore the area and reduce your carbon footprint.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, the nearest major town, take the Y84 bus towards Les Contamines-Montjoie. The bus journey takes approximately 11 minutes and drops you off at the 'CONTAMINES MONTJOIE Chef Lieu' stop in the village center. Buses run every 2 hours. A single ticket costs between €2 and €4.

  • Driving

    From Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, follow the D909 towards Les Contamines-Montjoie. The drive is straightforward and well-signposted. Upon entering Les Contamines-Montjoie, follow signs to the village center. Several parking areas are available, including Parking Télécabine Montjoie (560 Rte des Moranches), and a vast free parking next to the camping du Pontet (2815 Route de Notre Dame de la Gorge). Parking costs vary depending on the location and time of year.

  • Shuttle Bus

    Les Contamines-Montjoie offers a free shuttle bus service in and around the village. Check the local tourist office for the most up-to-date timetable and route information. This is a convenient way to reach various points within the village and surrounding areas.

  • Cable Car

    To access higher elevations and hiking trails, take the Télécabine de la Gorge from 'Le Pontet'. A return ticket costs approximately €19.20 for adults and €14.60 for children. Check the operating hours before your visit.

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Discover more about Les Contamines-Montjoie

Les Contamines-Montjoie, a charming village resort nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc in the Haute-Savoie region of France, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Situated at an altitude of 1164 meters, this authentic Savoyard village has retained its traditional character while evolving into a popular destination for both winter and summer tourism. Historically, Les Contamines-Montjoie has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of early settlements in the Val Montjoie valley. In the 12th century, the Château de Montjoie was built to control the Bonhomme pass, marking the area's strategic importance. Over the centuries, the village developed as an agricultural community, with farming playing a central role in its economy. The arrival of the railway in the late 19th century spurred the growth of tourism, with the first hotel opening its doors at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, Les Contamines-Montjoie seamlessly blends its agricultural heritage with its modern role as a thriving tourist destination. The village's architecture reflects its rich history, with well-preserved baroque churches and traditional farm buildings adding to its picturesque charm. The Sainte-Trinité church, originally the Château de Montjoie, stands as a testament to the village's past. The Notre-Dame de la Gorge church, located a short distance from the village, is another stunning example of baroque architecture, attracting visitors with its intricate details and serene atmosphere. Les Contamines-Montjoie is renowned for its exceptional natural environment, with the Contamines Nature Reserve offering a haven for wildlife and a paradise for hikers. The reserve boasts diverse flora and fauna, including marmots, chamois, and various species of birds. Hiking trails wind through the reserve, leading to stunning viewpoints, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. The Lacs Jovet, a series of alpine lakes, are a popular destination for hikers, offering breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif. In winter, Les Contamines-Montjoie transforms into a winter wonderland, with its ski area offering 120 kilometers of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort is part of the larger Evasion Mont-Blanc domain, providing access to over 445 kilometers of pistes. The ski area boasts excellent snow cover, ensuring a long and enjoyable ski season. In addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding, Les Contamines-Montjoie offers a variety of other winter activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and dog sledding. Summer in Les Contamines-Montjoie is equally captivating, with a wide range of activities to suit all tastes. Hiking and mountain biking are popular pastimes, with numerous trails crisscrossing the mountains and valleys. The Pontet leisure park offers a variety of activities for families, including a swimming lake, tennis courts, mini-golf, and a tree-top adventure playground. For thrill-seekers, climbing and paragliding opportunities abound, offering spectacular panoramic views of the mountains. Les Contamines-Montjoie is committed to sustainable tourism, with various initiatives in place to protect the environment and promote responsible practices. The village has adopted a zero-pesticide charter and encourages visitors to use public transport, bike, or walk to reduce their carbon footprint. The resort also raises awareness about waste sorting and has installed numerous sorting points throughout the village. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing escape in a stunning natural setting, Les Contamines-Montjoie offers an unforgettable alpine experience. With its blend of traditional charm, modern amenities, and commitment to sustainability, this village resort is a true gem in the heart of the French Alps. Explore the vast ski area, hike through the nature reserve, discover the baroque churches, or simply soak in the breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Les Contamines-Montjoie promises a memorable vacation for all.

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