The Best Spots to Enjoy Summer

When temperatures rise in the valley, Chamonix reveals another side of itself. Between swimming pools overlooking the peaks, lakes accessible on foot and wellness areas perfect for relaxing after a hike, the destination offers plenty of ways to enjoy the water during summer.

Whether you are travelling as a family, with friends or as a couple, there are many places to enjoy the water in Chamonix depending on the experience you are looking for: an afternoon by a lake, a swim facing Mont Blanc or a quieter moment in a hotel pool.

In this guide, discover the best places to swim in Chamonix, from public pools to natural spots around the valley, along with practical tips to help you plan your summer stay.

Public swimming pools in Chamonix

Richard Bozon Sports Centre

This is probably the best-known place to swim in Chamonix. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, the Richard Bozon Sports Centre features both indoor and outdoor pools open during the summer season.

Its biggest advantage is undoubtedly the mountain views from the outdoor areas. After a day of hiking, trail running or exploring the mountains, it is the perfect place to relax while staying close to the centre of Chamonix.

The complex also includes:

• a children’s paddling pool
• green outdoor areas
• a wellness space
• nearby sports facilities

It is an excellent option for families as well as travellers looking to combine outdoor activities with moments of relaxation.

Chamonix Swimming pool

The best places to enjoy the water around Chamonix

Gaillands Lake

Located at the entrance to Chamonix, Gaillands Lake is mainly appreciated for its exceptional setting and panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif.

Although swimming is not allowed, it remains one of the valley’s must-see summer spots. Many visitors come here to picnic, relax after a hike or simply enjoy the scenery.

The site is also known for:

• its climbing walls
• easy access from Chamonix town centre
• beautiful sunsets
• its relaxed local atmosphere during summer

Accessible on foot, by bike or by train, it is one of the most pleasant places to take a peaceful break in the valley.

Gaillands lake

Passy Lake, the main swimming spot near Chamonix

Around 30 minutes from Chamonix, Passy Lake is one of the most popular places to swim in summer with stunning views of Mont Blanc.

With its landscaped beach, supervised swimming area and large green spaces, it attracts both families and travellers looking for a relaxing day near the water.

The site also offers:

• water activities
• playgrounds
• picnic areas
• nearby restaurants and snack bars

During the hottest days of July and August, it is one of the best places to enjoy a summer day by the water surrounded by mountain scenery.

Chavants Lake

Located in Les Houches, just a few minutes from Chamonix, Chavants Lake is another pleasant place to enjoy time by the water during summer.

Popular with both families and locals, the area offers beautiful mountain views and a calmer atmosphere than some of the busier spots in the valley.

You will find:

• green open spaces
• children’s play areas
• walking paths
• a peaceful setting for a picnic or a break after outdoor activities

Although swimming may be limited depending on the area and season, it remains one of the valley’s favourite summer spots.

Chavants lake

Small refreshing spots in the valley

During summer, many travellers also enjoy cooling off near streams and small water spots accessible along hiking trails.

Around Les Bois, Argentière and parts of the Aiguilles Rouges area, several places allow visitors to take a refreshing break surrounded by alpine scenery.

Even though these spots are not designed for swimming, they offer a more natural and wild mountain experience during hot summer days.

Arveyron water sources

Mountain lakes: Lac Bleu and Lac Cornu

For travellers looking to combine hiking with spectacular alpine scenery, several high-altitude lakes around Chamonix are well worth discovering.

Lac Bleu, located in the Aiguilles Rouges area, is known for its beautiful colours and mineral landscape facing the Mont Blanc massif.

Lac Cornu, accessible via a more demanding hike, is considered one of the most beautiful mountain lakes near Chamonix. Its wild setting and high-mountain atmosphere make it a favourite summer excursion.

Although these lakes are generally too cold for proper swimming, they are perfect places to take a break by the water in the heart of the mountains.

Cornu lake

Why choose a hotel with a swimming pool in Chamonix?

After a day spent hiking, exploring the valley or enjoying outdoor activities, returning to a hotel with a swimming pool completely changes the experience of a stay in Chamonix.

Hotels with pools remain relatively rare in the valley, especially those combining a central location, a peaceful atmosphere and a more intimate experience.

Choosing a hotel with a pool allows you to:

• relax after outdoor activities
• fully enjoy warm summer days
• combine mountain adventures with wellness
• enjoy a more comfortable stay without leaving central Chamonix

It is also an excellent option for couples or travellers looking to discover Chamonix at a slower pace.

Staying at Art Hôtel Lyret: a hotel with a pool in the heart of Chamonix

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Chamonix town centre, Art Hôtel Lyret offers a quieter and more contemplative approach to the destination. The hotel provides easy access to restaurants, hiking trails and activities while maintaining a more intimate atmosphere.

During summer, the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool becomes a true place to unwind after a day in the mountains. Surrounded by peaks and greenery, it offers a particularly relaxing setting during sunny days in the valley.

The Lyret experience invites guests to slow down: returning from a hike, relaxing by the pool, watching the changing light on the mountains or simply enjoying a different side of Chamonix.

For travellers looking for accommodation with a swimming pool in Chamonix while staying close to the town centre and outdoor activities, Art Hôtel Lyret is an especially pleasant choice during the summer season.

Lyret art hotel swimming pool

Practical tips for enjoying swimming spots in Chamonix