Chamonix has a reputation as an extreme sports mecca in the summer months – but it also boasts a huge amount to offer families looking for a relaxing break, or an adventure packed holiday for all ages.

When the weather is good, there is plenty to do with the kids outdoors: there are easy hikes through the amazing scenery at the foot of Mont Blanc, a child specific high ropes course (Kids Arbre Adventure) and horse riding. The cable cars and mountain railways run over the summer to get you into the heart of the glaciers and lakes with minimal effort  and you can also take mountain bikes up the lifts for a more adventurous descent! For those who prefer to be water based, there is Canyoning (suitable for  8yrs +)  and Hydrospeed.  There is also Les Planards - a safe children's play ground with Trampolines, climbing frames, sandpits and more! Les Planards also has the longest summer luge in France suitable for children over 6yrs (younger children can be accompanied by an adult) which winds through the forest for 2km.

If the weather is against you, Chamonix has many options for inside entertainment. There is a 25m indoor swimming pool which also has a separate children's pool with bubble jets and a water slide; a world class climbing centre with a learning wall for children; and an eight lane bowling alley complete with games arcade. New this season there is also Le Petit VIP – which supplies arts and crafts workshops and child care for any ages.

If you are hoping to have some time away from the kids there are English speaking day care centres, or qualified Nannies who can come to your accommodation – full contact details can be easily found through the Tourist Information centre.  The Chamonix Centre Sportif also hosts a kid's Miniclub from 1st July to 30th August which gives access to the centre's facilities (swimming, climbing, tennis, basket-ball, ice-skating, etc.) and to an organised hike & picnic on the Wednesday.

Most major events in Chamonix are also Child friendly – for example the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Marathon (25th June) has a Mini Cross section for children up to 15yrs old, with events such as the 800mt sprint and a 5km cross country.  There is also the Fete de la Musique (June 21st) - a family occasion which starts in the afternoon and spills out across Chamonix with free music and outside stages.

You should definitely visit the Tourist Information centre on arrival for a complete weekly list of free organised entertainment for Children which run throughout the summer which include nature walks, craft classes and sports competitions.

And if you are looking for a place to stay check out Chalet Chocolat in Les Pelerins.