Chamonix

Chamonix sits at the foot of Mont Blanc with world-class hiking trails that cost nothing to walk, and the valley floor and town center are free to wander between climbs. The town itself runs at Alpine resort prices, so a self-catered stay and packed-lunch hikes keep the budget honest, and the cable cars are the main place the money goes. Late spring and early autumn bring lower lodging rates and quieter trails than the summer crush. It connects easily to Geneva for arrivals and pairs well with a stop in Annecy on the way through.