The Best Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals in Chamonix, the French Alps

Rental apartments at Pointe Isabelle come with mountain views and modern amenities
Rental apartments at Pointe Isabelle come with mountain views and modern amenities | Courtesy of Pointe Isabelle / Expedia
Christine Wilson

Whether you’re drawn to its sublime slopes, or would rather visit in summer to hike its verdant peaks, Chamonix is best enjoyed with a bit of flexibility. A self-catering stay gives you exactly that, with the ability to come and go as you please, the space to spread out, and the equipment to work some culinary magic with an array of local cheeses – Reblochon and Vacherin are both must-trys. So when you head for those famous slopes, be sure to book one of the best vacation rentals and villas in Chamonix right here on Culture Trip.

Les Balcons du Savoy

Hotel

Les Balcons du Savoy in the snow with mountains and forests behind
Courtesy of Les Balcons du Savoy / Expedia

From the outside, this collection of apartments looks perfectly chalet-chic: think peaked roofs and long rows of balconies overlooking snow-dusted mountains. Inside the mountain-themed decor continues, with a range of warm wood-dressed suites sleeping between two and seven people, and flashes of fiery red for extra cosiness. Set at the edge of central Chamonix, restaurants and kid-friendly activity centres are in abundance nearby, but the sauna and indoor pool give you reason enough to stay in.

Le Cristal de Jade

Apartment, Hotel

Le Cristal de Jade room with sofas, luxury ambience and balcony
Courtesy of Le Cristal de Jade / Expedia

It’s classic Chamonix style – golden wood, furry throws, roaring fires – gone modern. Luxurious kitchens, stuffed with modern appliances, plus marble sinks in bathrooms and statement lighting wouldn’t feel out of place in a city flat, but smatterings of thoughtful alpine touches (not to mention those views) underline where you are. With an on-site spa, children’s pool and apartments ranging from one-bedroom (sleeping two) up to four (sleeping eight), it’s romantic enough for couples but kitted out for families, too.

Pointe Isabelle

Apartment, Ski Chalet

Pointe Isabelle exterior with gardens and mountains behind
Courtesy of Pointe Isabelle / Expedia

Not into the classic chalet decor? Pointe Isabelle’s rooms – sleeping from one to four people – feel distinctly modern, with their minimalist pendant lights, sink-in leather sofas and patterned wallpapers. You won’t find full kitchens, but minibars, bar sinks and coffee machines let you easily prepare light breakfasts, simple suppers or bountiful snacks (we recommend a giant wedge of local Vacherin cheese). You’re just a three-minute walk from a clutch of popular restaurants, so you’ll certainly never go hungry.

Romantic one-bedroom apartment with Jacuzzi

Apartment

Just 100m (328ft) from the Bossons train station, this unit (named Studio Grace) is a perfect nook for two. From your outdoor Jacuzzi, gaze at the imposing Mont Blanc, Aiguille du Midi and the Bossons Glacier. The minimalist interior leaves everything looking sparkling clean, while wood panels and fluffy fur throws add a warm and inviting quality. The host, his wife and family live in the main chalet mere steps from the apartment, so you can rest assured that you’ll be well taken care of during your visit.

Alpine apartment outside the town centre

Apartment

This stunning apartment has a river passing by and mountain views all around in its quiet location about 2.5km (1.5mi) from the town centre. Much thought and care have gone into the chic decor of blues and greys. Meanwhile, skylights keep the space illuminated with natural light, and exposed wood beams give it an alpine vibe. One of the hosts, Sam, is a trained mountain guide who knows the area and its peaks exceptionally well and is happy to answer your questions or offer his advice.

Luxury duplex with Mont Blanc views in downtown

Apartment

This two-bedroom duplex, at the foot of Mont Blanc, mimics the snow-dipped mountains that rise before it, with high, slanted ceilings creating a conical peak, slate-grey stairs and kitchen countertops resembling rock and brilliant white walls forming a wintery backdrop. Wake up to the chime of the bell tower – whose postcard-worthy spire you can catch a glimpse of in the corner of the dining-area window – and flick on the espresso machine for a morning coffee at the breakfast bar. After an active day, kick off your hiking or ski boots (depending on the season), and lounge with a good book on the bedroom’s springy hammock floor.

Chloe Byrne contributed additional reporting to this article.

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