Apartment Options in Chamonix: What are Ski Apartments like in Chamonix?
also see Apartments in Chamonix: Ski Apartments in Chamonix

If you're looking for self-catered Chamonix apartments, the good news is that your options are looking better than ever. If you know where to look, Chamonix apartments have moved on greatly since the 1970s...! Millions of euros have been invested in the tasteful development and renovation of former hotels and apartment blocks over the last ten years giving Chamonix a real boost to the holiday rental market without damaging the mountain feel of this magical place.

Since 2008/09, when the economic situation means that some holiday makers have been considering their budgets more closely, opting for the flexibility and value for money of self-catering over 'all inclusive packages' makes a lot of sense. So who's been involved and what are the self catering apartment options in Chamonix?

Many new builds and renovations in Chamonix have been undertaken by the large French company, MGM Constructeur. The 17 luxury apartments in a former hotel at Les Planards in Chamonix town are the work of MGM, and are fantastically located right next to the Les Planards beginners' slope. Wander from here towards Chamonix centre, and its train station, and you'll find the traditional Savoyard Résidence La Ginabelle, which was also built by MGM and is now run by Pierre & Vacances, their sister rentals company, as part of their Premium range. It benefits from a luxury Deep Nature Algotherm Spa and an indoor swimming pool.

Heading down the valley to the increasingly popular Les Houches area, MGM have developed the gorgeous Hameau de Pierre Blanche residence. It is managed by CGH and they have an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room for its guests to use at their leisure. In the opposite direction, further up the valley, work continues apace; MGM have also been renovating the classic Le Savoy hotel in Argentière into apartments and promise to deliver something special. Choosing one of these holiday apartments for your trip to Chamonix means the build standard and finish is guaranteed.

Back in the centre of Chamonix, the renovation of the historical Hôtel des Alpes on the pedestrianised Rue du Docteur Paccard has triggered a huge development of the attached buildings, Alpes 1 and Alpes 2 by the Italian company, Costruzioni Civili Industriali. Now complete, the construction of two further buildings, Alpes 3 and Alpes 4 are underway next door, with a fantastic location on the banks of the River Arve. These apartments will be a superb central location for any ski or summer holiday.

When many people think of self-catering apartments in Chamonix, they think of the infamous Cham Sud buildings. Whilst it's no longer the only apartment option in town, it is Chamonix's only real large apartment complex and offers good budget options for those wanting to make the most of the slopes. The exterior of the buildings are a bit dated and the apartments are a real mixed bag. Some are tiny studios with few facilities whereas others have been tastefully renovated and offer a good central option. The advantage of being in Cham Sud is its close proximity to the Aiguille du Midi lift station and the centre of town. It tends to attract a younger holiday maker and is full of life in the winter with a number of bars and a nightclub on the ground floor. However, if you're looking for peace and quiet, then this probably isn't the place for you.

So how to find a Chamonix apartment? Naturally we carry apartment listings for various companies and individual owners. One of the bigger operators, Pierre & Vacances, offers three tiers of apartment, to suit all budgets. Their Maeva brand is their cheapest option, offering apartments of the edge of Cham Sud, the Pierre & Vacances range offers apartments for those on a mid-range budget and finally their Premium range offers high-end luxury apartment rentals which are likely to have added extras such as an indoor pool.

If you prefer someone to take the hassle out of your search or want to speak to an expert, opt for one of the Chamonix-based English specialists such as Mountain Base, ChamServe or one of the listed rental agents. Alternatively, there are many, many privately rented Chamonix apartments, some in small apartment buildings and others which are part of larger chalets.  Private rentals can be found by searching directly for owners on our listings page.