Description

Whilst the whole Chamonix valley is famous for its incredible views, there are still some areas in it that really are the "crême de la crême", and this route tours them (hence the "Hollywood" name). The adventure begins at the famous church in Chamonix town centre and takes you straight up to the foot of the Brévent cable car, which sits in the south-facing neighbourhood of Les Mousseaux.

From here make a fast descent back down to the valley floor and then head through the villages of Les Gaillands and Les Bossons to the beginnings of Les Houches, the 2nd biggest settlement in the valley after Chamonix itself. From here, pass over the top of the Chamonix motorway and begin the long forested climb up to the village of La Flatière via Le Coupeau and Le Bettey.

The climb is steep, scenic and unrelenting.

Whether 1, 2 or 3 of those adjectives appeal will depend on your taste in climbs! The villages you pass through on this ascent are some of the most peaceful and desirable in the Chamonix Valley.

From the carpark at La Flatière do an about turn and enjoy a fast and exciting descent back down to Les Houches.

Go through Les Houches itself, passing the Prarion and Bellevue cable cars and carry on all the way to the beginning of the lovely little settlement of Vaudagne.

There is no discernible village centre in Vaudagne so either turn around where our line suggests, or explore the various little wooded lanes that house some of Chamonix's most peaceful homes. Return to Les Houches and carry on back to Les Bossons, taking the short detour up to Le Mont (which enjoys fantastic views of the Brévent) and then descend to Chamonix town centre again.

Make the long and enjoyable trip up to Les Tines and then climb all the way up to where the road ends at Lavancher, below the north face of Les Drus.

Descend back once more to the valley floor and toast your tour of Chamonix's very own Hollywood Hills.