In Pt.3 of our feature on the best terraces to enjoy this summer we head down the valley to discover where you can enjoy mask-free sights and worry-free meals with appropriate social distancing on yet more sunny terraces of the Chamonix Valley.
Purchasing your masks in Chamonix
In our previous post we explained where you will need a mask in Chamonix, following the local rule changes and French regulations, see here. Masks are for your protection and the protection of others and are thankfully taken quite seriously here, avoid fines by having one handy; Even while you are enjoying the summer terrace ambience of Chamonix mask-free, you should also have a mask with you for when you need to go in-doors or use public transport.
Collineige has washable and handmade quality masks available to purchase and on your request we can even wash and iron these for you when you are here for a long stay or catered holiday.
Mask-free Terraces Further down the Valley
Les Bossons
Cabanne du Cerro
20min walk from the Cerro car park, near the Mont Blanc tunnel / tel: 06 08 95 82 08
Unfortunately, the hike to the Cerro chalet no longer allows you to see the Bossons Glacier. However, with a calm and cosy ambiance away from other tourist hot spots, you can enjoy the flavour of local, quality dishes including the produce of their very own garden and hens all from a fantastic sun-soaked terrace.
Chalet du Glacier du Bossons
Above the Bossons chairlift, 74400, Chamonix / tel: 04 50 53 03 89
With an unbeatable view of the Bossons glacier, enjoy a refuge style meal surrounded with flowers. As well as enjoying the company of the seracs and crevasses, you can make the most of the informative historic trail, which illustrates the time-line of the glacier and some of the debris it has spat out over the years. All of the seating at this cool and shady spot is exterior.
Hôtel Aiguille du Midi
479 chemin Napoléon, 74400, Chamonix / tel: 04 50 53 00 65
The Hôtel Aiguille du Midi is a lovely and friendly family-run hotel and restaurant, and it has been in the same family for 112 years (1908 – 2020)! An old country house became a hotel in the early 20th century. The restaurant has a gorgeous terrace, surrounded by green lawn and plants, and superb views of the surrounding mountains.
The BEST news is if you are all buying lunch, you may also be able to use the outdoor pool. This depends on the hotel's capacity and you must call in advance to check. Kids just love this place!
Les Houches
La Guinguette (Lac des Chavants)
180 allée des Diligences, Les Houches / tel: 04 50 91 23 50
Did you know Les Houches has its own lake similar to Lac des Gaillands? It’s called Lac des Chavants, and is home to La Guinguette. A café located right by the water’s edge, it is well-equipped for children, with high-chairs and toys available. There are plenty of activities at this small lake and in the summertime.
Le Rocky Pop Hotel
1476 avenue des Alpages, 74310, Les Houches / tel: 04 85 30 00 00
Chamonix Valley residents are generally familiar with this quirky new(ish) hotel in Les Houches, especially for pizza! There is a playground, and even pétanque to enjoy…just disinfect the balls and let the fun begin!
Le Delice
130 Rue de l’Eglise, Les Houches/ tel: 04 50 91 52 06
A beautiful brand new terrace awaits just outside of the center of Les Houches. This bar is English owners and flair with Affligem on tap and delicious homemade fries and sauces made by the lovely Fiona...Sauces she now sells in jars if you want to enjoy them at home too!
Kitschinn
77 place de la Fruitière, Les Houches (by Télécabine du Bellevue) / tel: 04 50 34 41
This summer the outdoor terrace of the Kitschinn has been remodeled to remind you of a day at the beach. There is fun for kids in the Wendy-house and weekly changes to the menu to take you to the beaches of a different country every time you visit! Conveniently located by the Télécabine du Bellevue there is also lots of green space on the pistes next door, and easy parking.
Le Solerey Brewpub
81 avenue des Alpages, Les Houches / tel: 04 56 37 46 85
Le Solerey is Les Houches’ first brewpub from one of the original owners of MBC in central Chamonix. Their outdoor space backs onto the Tourchet pistes at Les Houches and this creates a perfect natural amphitheater for the frequent live music.
Le Balcon de Merlet (Parc Animalier de Merlet, Les Houches)
2495 chemin de Merlet, 74310, Les Houches / tel: 06 07 87 81 76
What a beautiful terrace this is, with absolutely superb views of Mont-Blanc, from an altitude of 1500m! We recommend you book in advance and wear good walking shoes as you have to hike to get here, even from the best parking spots. Best book in advance otherwise the locals might have taken all the tables...
Restaurant La Cha
1 route du Prarion, Les Houches / tel: 04 50 54 30
Run by Céline and Vincent, this lovely restaurant at altitude (1720m) is located a short 20mins walk from the arrival station of the Télécabine du Prarion! This year for summer 2020 they also have pétanque!
La Tanière (Les Houches-Saint-Gervais)
2540 route du Prarion, Saint Gervais / tel: 33 (0)4 50 93 42 57 or +33 6 83 42 93 43
La Tanière is a rustic farmhouse, with a stunning summer terrace, located off the red piste Plan du Crêt (near Plancerts drag-lift). Despite being located in the French Alps this spot is famous for its Argentinian dishes such as asados, chimichurri sauce and Malbec wine too!
We recommend you take the Tramway du Mont-Blanc, to the station of Motivon, and then hike there, a 30-40 minutes walk in the woods. We also recommend you book in advance.
Servoz
La Chirv'rete
Maison du Lieutenant - Le Mont - Servoz / tel: 06 07 32 08 45
Far from the "tourist traps" in location and in nature! Imagine: a board of cheeses and cold cuts from local GAEC farms accompanied by a bottle of wine carefully selected by the owner. Rustic, local, tasty, isn't that what you're looking for when you go the extra mile from Chamonix? Just look at the beautifully animated terrace to enjoy...
Un immense MERCI au Groupe Edgar et à vous tous pour votre présence ce samedi soir dans le jardin de la Maison du Lieutenant! Un bon bol de joie, de pep's et de belles énergies !!
Posted by La Chirv'ette on Tuesday, 21 July 2020
Auberge des Gorges de la Diosaz
81 route du Mont Lieu dit Le Bouchet, 74310 Servoz / tel: 04 50 47 20 97
If you're on your way to see the famous Gorges stop by the auberge to enjoy fine french bistro cuisine and a lovely terrace too. This spot also regularly hosts live music so call in advance to make your booking with music in mind.
>>> Discover Pt.1 Chamonix Terraces
