Chamonix The French Alps Glacier Tourism Case Study Flashcards
Where is it located?
In the north west alps
15 km from Switzerland and Italy
How long has it been a centre for tourism?
250 years
What is its population?
10,000
How many visitors does it get per day In summer / winter?
Summer = 100,000 Winter = 60,000
What are the summer tourist attractions?
40km of mountain bike track 350km of hiking trails Tourists can visit ice grotto in summer An alpine museum / exhibition Cable cars and the montenvers railway Paragliding
What are the winter tourists attractions?
6 ski areas
2 cross county skiing courses
Lots of glaciers including the Mer De Glace which is the longest glacier in France
What are the social impacts of tourism?
Tourism stops out migration of the young
Local people have to live in other places as houses are too expensive
What are the environmental impacts of tourism?
Chamonix is maintained as an attractive town
Large number of tourists cause a lot of traffic which increases pollution
Tourist developments have increased risks of avalanche
What are the economic impacts of tourism?
Jobs available in Chamonix have changed from farming to jobs in restaurants
The tourism industry creates a lot of jobs (2500 people work as season workers each year)
A huge amount of energy is used to run facilites for tourists e.g. Hotels / ski lifts which increases co2 levels adding to global warming
Give three ways in which Chamonix are trying to manage tourism?
Free public transport is provided for tourists
Low emission buses used
À system of avalanche barriers are maintained around the resort
What do the management strategies have to do?
Balance the need to conserve the environment with the right of people to see and experience it
What three other management strategies are in place in Chamonix?
Hotels are installing solar pannels
An initiative called Tomorrows valley brings together locals and tourists
Avalanche awareness courses
An initiative called ESpace Mont Blanc involves cooperation between France Switzerland and Italy on nature conservation , forests and water resources
What are the reasons for alpine development in Chamonix?
Amazing scenery and views
Steep slopes ideal for winter sports
Plenty of snow
What conflict was there between summer and winter tourists?
Heavy snow fall creates perfect climate for skiers
Slopes are heavily used in winter damaging the grass underneath
When ice melts the grass is dead and the surface uneven making it hard for summer hikers
What conflicts may arise between tourists and locals?
Tourists create noise disturbing natural peace
Tourists drop litter making area ugly
Many tourists travel by car increasing traffic congestion and pollution
House prices may become too high for locals as rich tourists want to buy second home in Chamonix
Tourists skiing off piste increases avalanche risk putting locals lives homes and businesses in danger
