The La Folie Douce Chamonix Experience: Ski, Spa & Après-Ski

8 days

Easy

The ultimate Chamonix escape. Stay at the iconic, ski-in/ski-out La Folie Douce and experience its legendary après-ski and luxury spa. This family-perfect package includes 4 gourmet dinners and an all-inclusive 5-day ski camp for kids

1. Detailed Experience Description 

Awaken in the heart of the Alps to a breathtaking view of the Mont Blanc massif. Your day begins with effortless luxury at the legendary La Folie Douce Hotel, where the slopes are literally at your doorstep. Step out of the ski room, click into your bindings, and glide directly to the Brévent cable car, ascending into a sun-drenched paradise of world-class skiing.

This isn't just a ski trip; it's a perfectly balanced masterpiece of thrill and tranquility, designed for those who want it all.

While you carve down pristine groomers or explore legendary off-piste terrain, your children are on their own adventure. They'll be whisked away for a 5-day, all-inclusive ski camp—complete with expert instruction, lift pass, rental equipment, and supervised lunches. You're left with the priceless gift of time, free to ski at your own pace, challenge yourself on steeper terrain, or simply savor a quiet hot chocolate at a mountain-top café.

As the sun begins to dip behind the Aiguilles, the mountain transforms. The famous terrace below your hotel erupts into life. This is the authentic La Folie Douce après-ski experience—thumping bass, live musicians, dancing on tables, and an electric energy that is famous worldwide.

Or, if you crave peace, you can retreat to your sanctuary. Melt away the day in the hotel's luxurious spa. Watch the snow fall from the bliss of the heated outdoor pool, steam rising into the crisp alpine air.

Your evenings are just as curated. On four nights of your choice, you'll indulge in a gourmet journey at the hotel’s celebrated restaurant, La Petite Cuisine. From starter to dessert, with wine included, it’s the perfect culinary end to a perfect day.

This is the Chamonix dream, realized. It’s the raw adrenaline of high-altitude skiing blended seamlessly with the sophistication of a luxury spa, the energy of a world-class party, and the complete peace of mind that your family is having the time of their lives.

What's included?
  • Food & drinks
  • Landing & facility fees
  • Entry or admission fee

Inclusions 

This package price covers the following items and fees for every member of your group:

🏨 Accommodation & Dining

  • 7 Nights' Accommodation: A 7-night stay at the 4-star La Folie Douce Hotel Chamonix.
  • Daily Breakfast: Full breakfast buffet at the hotel for every morning of your stay.
  • 4 Gourmet Dinners: Four (4) multi-course dinners at the hotel's 'La Petite Cuisine' restaurant, which include:
    Starter, Main Course, and Dessert
    Still or Sparkling Water
    Coffee or Tea
    Two (2) glasses of selected wine per adult
  • Wellness & Spa Access: Full, complimentary access to the hotel's spa facilities, including the heated outdoor pool, indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.

🎿 The All-Inclusive Kids' Ski Package (Ages 5-14)

  • 5-Day Ski Pass: A valid 5-day ski lift pass for the Chamonix valley.
  • 5-Day Ski Lessons: Five full days of group ski instruction with a professional ski school.
  • 5-Day Equipment Rental: Complete ski equipment rental (skis, boots, poles, and helmet) for 5 days.
  • 5 Supervised Lunches: Daily lunch with the ski school group, included for all 5 days of lessons.

🚙 Transport & Guidance

  • Private Airport Transfers: Dedicated, private round-trip transfers for your group between Geneva Airport (GVA) and the hotel in Chamonix.
  • Private Tour Guide: A professional guide dedicated to your group for the duration of the trip to manage logistics and assist with activities.
  • Guided Town Tour: A private walking tour of Chamonix town center, as detailed in the itinerary.
  • All Taxes & Fees: Includes all local resort taxes (taxe de séjour) and service charges for the items listed above.
    Exclusions (What's Not Included)

To ensure full transparency, the following items are not included in the package price:

  • International & Domestic Flights: You are responsible for booking your own flights to and from Geneva (GVA).
  • Adult Skiing Costs: The package price does not include:
    Ski Pass (Lift Pass) for adults
    Ski Equipment Rental for adults
    Ski Lessons for adults (These can be added as optional extras—as we discussed in the "Adult Extras" section).
  • Other Meals & Drinks: All lunches (except for the children in ski school) and three (3) dinners are not included. All beverages outside of the 4 specified gourmet dinners (e.g., at the bar, après-ski, mini-bar) are also excluded.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and ski insurance is mandatory but not included.
  • Optional Activities & Entry Fees: Any activities not explicitly listed as "Included" (e.g., Aiguille du Midi tickets for adults, Montenvers train, paragliding).
  • Personal Expenses: Gratuities for the guide, driver, and hotel staff; souvenirs; and other personal purchases.
Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity
  • Parking fees
  • Goods & services tax

Exclusions (What's Not Included)

To ensure full transparency, the following items are not included in the package price:

  • International & Domestic Flights: You are responsible for booking your own flights to and from Geneva (GVA).
  • Adult Skiing Costs: The package price does not include:
    Ski Pass (Lift Pass) for adults
    Ski Equipment Rental for adults
    Ski Lessons for adults (These can be added as optional extras—as we discussed in the "Adult Extras" section).
  • Other Meals & Drinks: All lunches (except for the children in ski school) and three (3) dinners are not included. All beverages outside of the 4 specified gourmet dinners (e.g., at the bar, après-ski, mini-bar) are also excluded.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and ski insurance is mandatory but not included.
  • Optional Activities & Entry Fees: Any activities not explicitly listed as "Included" (e.g., Aiguille du Midi tickets for adults, Montenvers train, paragliding).
  • Personal Expenses: Gratuities for the guide, driver, and hotel staff; souvenirs; and other personal purchases.
Please note
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Animals or pets allowed
  • Passport required
  • Dress code

This is a critical section to ensure travelers are well-prepared and have the right expectations.

Here is a comprehensive list of important information to consider before booking.

⚠️ Important Information: Before You Book

Please review these points carefully to ensure this experience is the right fit for you and your group.

🩺 Health & Physical Requirements

  • General Fitness: This is an active ski holiday. A good baseline level of health and physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the week. Skiing and snowboarding are physically demanding sports.
  • High Altitude: Chamonix town is at 1,035m (3,396 ft), but the cable cars and ski lifts (like the Aiguille du Midi at 3,842m / 12,605 ft) ascend to very high altitudes.
  • Medical Conditions: Guests with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions, or those who are pregnant, should consult their doctor before booking to discuss the risks associated with high-altitude travel and winter sports.
  • Kids' Ski School: The included children's program involves 5 hours of active instruction and skiing per day. Children should be in good health and comfortable with being in a group setting.

♿ Accessibility & Young Children

  • Wheelchair & Mobility Access: While the La Folie Douce hotel itself is a modern building with elevators and accessible main areas (restaurants, spa, lobby), the overall experience is not recommended for guests with significant mobility impairments or those who rely on a wheelchair. Alpine towns and ski resorts in winter present significant challenges, including snow, ice, and uneven terrain.
  • Infant Seats: Yes, infant and child seats are available and will be provided for your private airport transfers. Please provide the specific age and weight of your young children at the time of booking so we can arrange the correct-sized seats.
  • Strollers: Please be aware that navigating Chamonix town with a standard stroller can be difficult in winter due to snow-covered and icy sidewalks. An "all-terrain" or jogging stroller with larger wheels is highly recommended if you plan to bring one.

⚠️ What Travelers Must Know Before Booking

  • Mandatory Insurance: A comprehensive travel insurance policy is mandatory for all participants. This policy must specifically cover:
    Winter Sports (Skiing/Snowboarding)
    Mountain Rescue (Off-piste, if you plan to hire a guide)
    Emergency Medical & Repatriation
    Trip Cancellation
  • Adult Ski Costs are NOT Included: To provide flexibility, this package price does not include ski passes, ski/snowboard equipment rental, or ski lessons for adults. Your guide will assist you in purchasing and arranging these upon arrival.
  • The La Folie Douce Atmosphere: This hotel is famous for its vibrant, world-class après-ski scene. This includes live DJs and musicians on the main terrace almost every afternoon. It is a high-energy, celebratory environment. While guest rooms are well-soundproofed, please be aware this is not a silent retreat.
  • Weather & Itinerary Changes: This is a high-mountain environment. Weather is unpredictable. Lifts, ski areas, and high-altitude attractions (like the Aiguille du Midi) can close at any time due to high winds, poor visibility, or avalanche risk. Your guide will always have a backup plan, but access to specific attractions cannot be guaranteed.
  • What to Pack: Proper alpine clothing is essential. This includes waterproof/windproof ski jackets and pants, thermal base layers, mid-layers (fleece or down), ski gloves or mittens, goggles, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and sturdy winter boots with good grip for walking in town.
What to bring

    Here is a well-structured packing list tailored specifically for your Chamonix La Folie Douce experience, covering everything from the slopes to the spa and the famous après-ski parties.

    What to Bring on Your Trip

    To make the most of your alpine adventure, we've broken down your packing list into categories. The key is layering for the mountain and packing "smart casual" for the vibrant hotel scene.

    🎿 On-Piste Essentials (For Skiing)

    These are your non-negotiable items for warmth, safety, and comfort on the slopes.

    • Thermal Base Layers: Bring at least two or three sets (long-sleeved tops and long underwear). Merino wool is highly recommended as it wicks moisture and stays warm even when damp.
    • Mid-Layers: One or two fleece jackets, light down vests, or technical mid-layers. These are your insulation and are crucial for layering up or down as the temperature changes.
    • Waterproof Ski Jacket & Pants: Your primary defense against wind, snow, and cold.
    • Ski Socks: Several pairs of dedicated ski socks (not cotton). Good socks are a game-changer for boot comfort and warmth.
    • Helmet: Safety is paramount. While you can rent one, bringing your own ensures a perfect fit and comfort.
    • Goggles: Essential for eye protection from wind, snow, and sun. A pair with interchangeable lenses (one for bright sun, one for flat/low light) is a pro-tip.
    • Balaclava or Neck Gaiter (Buff): Protects your face and neck on cold or windy days.

    🥂 For the Hotel, Après-Ski & Town

    The La Folie Douce is a destination in itself. You'll want to be comfortable and stylish for its spa, famous parties, and gourmet restaurants.

    • Swimwear: A must-bring! You will need this for the hotel's incredible outdoor heated pool (a magical experience in the snow) and the indoor spa/sauna area.
    • Waterproof Winter Boots: This is essential. You'll need sturdy, warm boots with good grip (like Sorels, Uggs, or similar) for walking around Chamonix's snowy streets and, most importantly, for the outdoor après-ski terrace. You can't dance in ski boots!
    • "Smart Casual" Evening Wear: The restaurants (especially La Petite Cuisine) and bars have a relaxed but stylish "alpine chic" vibe. Think nice jeans, warm sweaters, fashionable boots, or casual dresses. You do not need formal wear.
    • Comfortable Hotel Loungewear: Slippers or comfortable shoes to wear inside the hotel and to the spa.
    • Sunglasses: For bright, sunny afternoons at the après-ski party or walking around town.

    ☀️ Health & Practical Essentials

    • High-SPF Sunscreen (SPF 30-50+): A non-negotiable. The alpine sun is incredibly strong, reflecting off the snow, and you can get a serious burn even on a cloudy day.
    • SPF Lip Balm: Just as important as sunscreen. The cold, dry air and sun will chap your lips quickly.
    • Personal First-Aid Kit: Include painkillers (ibuprofen/paracetamol), blister plasters (for ski boots), and any personal medications.
    • Portable Power Bank: A pro-tip. Cold weather drains phone batteries extremely fast. A power bank is a lifesaver for taking photos on the mountain all day.
    • Travel Adapter: France uses the Type E socket.
    • Small Daypack/Backpack: Useful for carrying water, an extra layer, sunscreen, and your power bank while skiing or exploring the town.