No ski trip to the area is complete without tackling the Vallée Blanche, one of the most famous runs in Chamonix and the world. There are several ways down from the top of the Aiguille Midi back into France – and a route over the border towards Courmayer in Italy. Snowboarders should check in advance as one route has long flats.

At 23km for the 2,800-metre descent it is the longest off-piste run in the world. The pitch is not too severe, but crevasses and hidden snow bridges can trap the unwary. Can only be done in an organised group.