How to Plan an Adventurous Chamonix Mont-Blanc Elopement

Your relationship is about adventures – and if breathing in crisp mountain air as you climb through fields of blooming wildflowers, laughing together after you catch your breath at the summit, and experiencing the glow of snow capped mountain peak as the sun begins to set sounds like your idea of a perfect day, traditional wedding venues might not feel like the right place to begin your marriage.

The day you tie the knot should reflect who you are as a couple and what you love to do, and it should feel like you! So if you’re dreaming of an adventure, one that you’ll remember forever, a mountain top elopement overlooking the highest peak in the Alps might be the perfect way to celebrate.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan an intimate, adventurous Chamonix Mont-Blanc elopement!

Getting to Chamonix - Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, also referred to as Chamonix, is a truly special place. Situated in the Alps of southeastern France, this little commune is a haven for skiers, hikers, and anyone who loves the mountains. Chamonix sits at the base of Mont-Blanc, the highest peak in Europe – so the views are absolutely breathtaking. 

For your Mont Blanc elopement, you’ll need to get here! Chamonix is right on the border of France, with both Italy and Switzerland surrounding it – and the mountain itself straddles the border of Italy and France. 

If you’re hopping on a flight for your elopement, most people choose to fly into Geneva Airport – this airport is a hub, and typically has lots of options for flights from all over the world. It’s a one-hour drive to Chamonix.

Though there are shuttles, trains and buses that can take you from the airports, or from major cities around Europe, to Chamonix, whether you drive your own car or rent one at the airport, a car is typically the most convenient option when you plan your Mont Blanc elopement. It gives you the ultimate flexibility to reach remote locations and explore during your stay! And, it can serve as a getting ready suite — one of my brides did her makeup sitting in the trunk before lacing up her hiking boots for the adventure!

The Best Time for a Chamonix Mont-Blanc Elopement

When you’re setting an elopement date, the best time to elope in Chamonix Mont-Blanc will definitely depend on what you want to do. 

Summer (June through September)

If you dream of hiking to a mountain top, enjoying gorgeous views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and peaks along the way, the best time for your Mont Blanc elopement is summer! Mid-June through mid-September is typically the best time for hiking, but remember that no matter when you elope, weather in the mountains can be unpredictable – so be prepared for anything.

The Tour du Mont Blanc – a long distance race around the mountain – typically takes place during the last week of August each year. Check the dates before you put your elopement in the calendar, as the area gets very busy!

Fall (September through November)

Fall, along with spring, can be good times to elope if you want to avoid the crowds. Chamonix is most popular during the summer hiking season and the winter skiing season. Weather during these times of year is especially unpredictable, however! Snow starts accumulating at higher elevations, so if you want to hike while avoiding crowds, early fall is your best bet for good weather.

Winter (December through February)

If you bundle up, eloping in Chamonix during the winter can be an absolutely magical experience. If your idea of adventure includes ski slopes, hot cocoa, and a winter wonderland, this is a great time for you to tie the knot! Winter is great for snowshoeing, but to avoid holiday crowds, I recommend eloping after December.

Spring (March through May)

Spring weather is pretty unpredictable, but it can be another great time to avoid the crowds. March and April are typically the best months for downhill skiing, and you can usually hike starting in May. But, higher elevations will still be snow covered!

Things to Do During Your Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Elopement

On the day that you tie the knot, and throughout your stay in Chamonix, your Mont Blanc elopement should be full of adventures! There’s plenty to do and tons to experience – and spending your elopement, and your honeymoon, surrounded by dazzling peaks, watching the sun light up the valley, is guaranteed to be absolutely life-changing.

Here are just a few ideas for things to do when you elope in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc!

Go hiking

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking views that surround Mont Blanc. Choose from the countless hiking trails in the area, and hike to gorgeous mountain lakes, through fields of blooming wildflowers, and enjoy views of the Alps that are nothing short of awe inspiring!

Just imagine conquering a trail in a wedding dress, exchanging vows with jaw-dropping views in every direction, and always having this memory of the incredible place where you started your marriage. 

Take a cable car

Soaring over the mountains is a really unique experience to have on your elopement day! In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you can take a cable car to Aiguille du Midi, a 3842 meter (12605 foot) peak that towers in the French Alps.

This spot is close to the summit of Mont Blanc—as close as you can get without hiking or climbing, and you’ll see sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks!

You can enjoy the restaurants and take in the views at Aiguille du Midi, or use this as a starting point for ski touring, hiking, climbing, or even paragliding.

Go Skiing

Hiking at Mont Blanc is incredible in the summer, but winter has plenty of adventures to offer. You can stay at one of the cozy resorts and hit the slopes – whether you’re an experienced skier or new to the sport. It’s a fun way to experience those incredible mountain views!

Try the local food

You’ll need to pack some snacks for hikes or outdoor adventures, or even find a local place to host you and a few loved ones for an intimate reception to celebrate tying the knot! Grab a freshly baked baguette and some cheese and saucisson, try a warm tartiflette at the ski resorts, and be sure to get dessert – a delicious blueberry pie, or a flaky Galette des Rois.

Planning Your Intimate Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Elopement

The day you get married should be a reflection of you – fun, unique, one of a kind. If you’re drawn to stunning natural beauty, elegance mixed with adventure, and you want your elopement to be an experience you’ll never forget, a Chamonix-Mont-Blanc elopement might be the perfect way to tie the knot.

As an elopement photographer, I want to document your story in a way that’s authentic, and true. To capture the emotions and the moments that make your heart beat faster, to show you every detail and give you photos that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. 
If you’re ready to plan your adventurous elopement at Mont Blanc, contact me!