Better Connections in the Chamonix Valley
Friday, December 25th, 2009
Chamonix’s world famous ski area is divided in to a number of sectors, most of which need to be driven between as it’s a little far to walk in some cases. The valley is narrow, the town busy, parking limited and so the best way to get about, besides paying for a taxi, is the bus.
The good news is that for a number of years now, the Chamonix Valley has been offering a free transport service to its visitors and residents. The annual cost of this service is over 3.5 milllion Euros – a colossal amount for a small valley, but a necessary choice in terms of sustainability and the environment.
This year, an additional 160,000 euros has been budgeted in order to improve the bus service with a new regular line between Les Houches at the southern end of the valley and Le Tour at the northern end of the Valley, no longer necessitating a change of buses in Chamonix.
In addition, during the winter season, the lift areas are serviced by frequent shuttle buses which reinforce the regular lines. The panoramic train between Servoz and Vallorcine, at both extremities of the Valley, continues to offer free travel to all guest card holders.
