I went on an extraordinary trip in late February to Chamonix.  We flew into Geneva and then it was an hour drive from there.  I didn’t know much about the area other than the fact that Mont Blanc (which overlooks the city of Chamonix) is the highest peak in western Europe.

There were four of us on the trip and we had just chosen it as a good ski destination.  Well, I must say it was magical! The town itself was fantastic – plenty of choice on restaurants, bars, and boulangeries for fresh baguettes.  And then the skiing was equally fantastic.  I was a bit nervous of going there because some reviews said most of the terrain was suited best to advanced skiers.  I am a fairly experienced skier but having not skied in about five years I wasn’t sure how I would do.

In the end, Chamonix offered a great mix of terrain and I was comfortable at all of the four nearby resorts.  I imagine it isn’t the best choice for beginners, but for everyone else there is a great selection of blue, red and black runs.  All in all it was an awesome week!

So, what does this have to do with My Health Villa?  Well, for fitness of course!  Spending a full day on the slopes burns a whopping amount of calories…and you don’t even feel like you’ve been working out.  I think ski/snowboard holidays are the one holiday where you can actually lose weight.  I would say that for that one week my diet was not as good as usual and I certainly had a bit more red wine than normal (you’ve got to do it when you are in France!) but I still felt great at the end of the week because I had been so active.

Taking up a sport is a super easy way to ensure you get more exercise into your life.  And it is so much fun!

I have to quickly tell you about an amazing opportunity that Chamonix provides in the winter.  It is called the Valley Blanche and it is a guided 25km (15mi) ski or snowboard tour down a glacier.  You get taken up Mont Blanc to 3800m in a cable car.  Then you hike down the top of the peak – totally crazy! – put your skis on and go.  The views are incredible along the whole route and some of the snow up there was just perfect.  It is something not to be missed if you are in Chamonix.  A certain level of ski ability is required so just check it out before booking.

Since my trip I’ve actually read a lot about Chamonix and how much of an “outdoor adventure” spot it is.  Anyone who is into hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or anything similar should check it out.  I heard from someone who works there that it is even busier in the summer than in the winter.

All in all, I am just so pleased that I got to experience Chamonix and the nearby resorts.  I will certainly remember it fondly!  Now, what is next….?

To your health,

Kimberly