Location: Chamonix in France
Car: not necessary
Chamonix is probably best known as the skiing and alpine capital of the world. As a destination it has a reputation for the extreme and this, whilst undoubtedly true, can mask a wide array of sporting and leisure activities (particularly in summer), peace and quiet, great nightlife, and superb scenery that can be enjoyed at whichever pace suits you. Chamonix is the perfect place to come for a weekend break, a week's holiday, a season, or a lifetime, as you will never run out of things to do or tire of the views! The lively streets of Chamonix are a colourful mix of sport shops, guide offices, restaurants, bars and cafés. Every Saturday the town hosts an outdoor market brimming with local crafts and produce. On bad weather days there is a cinema, a bowling alley, an ice rink, a large sports centre with a pool, gym and indoor climbing wall and numerous museums in which to while away the day.