Hike to Charousse

Free outdoor parking at the Prarion. Long term parking.Official parking of the Tour du Mont-Blanc. Possibility to park for up to 15 days in order to do the Tour du Mont-Blanc.

Paid outdoor parking at Les Chavants.The new Les Chavants parking lot offers 178 spaces, including 4 for people with reduced mobility (PRM) and 10 equipped with electric charging stations. Designed with the environment in mind, it incorporates planted valleys for sustainable rainwater management and a low-carbon asphalt mix to limit heat islands. Over 2,500 m² of vegetation, including trees, shrubs and flower meadows, have been planted to harmonize the parking lot with its surroundings. This is a parking lot, so no long vehicles are allowed.

A haven of peace, preserved from the excesses of the Chamonix valley, the Charousse mountain pasture is made up of a group of traditional chalets, with preserved architecture that seems to be out of time.The Alpage de Charousse, a testimony of pastoral history and mountain architecture. Located on impressive glacial polis which form the base of the Mont-Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges, the Charousse mountain pasture is a magnificent place which benefits from an exceptional view on the Mont-Blanc Massif. Easily accessible by a gentle slope and well marked path, count about 30 to 45 minutes with your family to reach the alpage from the Côte des Chavants on the heights of Les Houches. In order to preserve this place, it is necessary to stay on the path and not to cross the fences. Very beautiful farms of traditional construction remained preserved and form a hamlet. This mountain pasture was a summer transition zone for the herds going to pasture. A little historical focus: In 1926, the architect Albert Laprade fell under the spell of this mountain pasture. He bought one of the chalets and above all a large number of traditional objects and furniture that he bequeathed to the commune of Les Houches. This collection can be seen in the mountain museum of Les Houches.

This site is ideal for short walks and picnics. There is also a barbecue area you can use. There are incredible views over the Mont-Blanc Massif and it is a very sunny spot.There are several activities on offer in summer: a climbing wall (cliff), fishing, petanque pitches, children's play equipment, orienteering course, and a rope pyramid. In winter cross country skiing and walking trail depending on snow condition

The mountain museum evokes rural life in the mountains through the reconstitution of the rooms of the traditional habitat and the presentation of ethnographic objects used in the past in the valley of Chamonix.PERMANENT EXHIBITION Since 1977, the Musée Montagnard has been housed in one of the oldest houses in the town center of Les Houches. Through thematic rooms and three reconstructed rooms of the traditional habitat, it presents a collection of objects used in the past in the Chamonix valley for agropastoral tasks and daily life. Two rooms house the temporary exhibition, which is renewed every year. TEMPORARY EXHIBITION from December 26, 2024 to May 16, 2026 "Cable cars and company At the beginning of the 20th century, access to the mountains opened up to as many people as possible. In Les Houches, the Bellevue cable car was built in 1936, followed by other installations throughout the commune. Take a look at their history in the exhibition. Between the two world wars, the summer season was joined by a winter season with the development of snow sports. The first ski lifts were built. In Les Houches, the Bellevue cable car was built in 1936, followed by other installations throughout the commune. Follow the story of these installations in the temporary exhibition, featuring photographs, documents and personal accounts. In partnership with the Dans l'temps association. PROGRAMMING : Guided tours, activities and workshops for young and old are offered during the school vacations. Self-guided "Object Hunt": Keep your eyes peeled for museum objects that will reveal their secrets! Ages 3 and up / Free / On request from reception during opening hours. RESERVATIONS : Groups : Guided tour of the permanent exhibition by appointment all year round