In reply to squicky: Own a place in Les Carroz. Best ice nearby is at Sixt fer Cheval. about 40 mins away in the winter. Off Piste is very good, the more you go, the more there is. The whole Ger area is very good. Ski tours are limiting. There are two good peaks on the ridge overlooking St Gervais from Flaine. Lift access from Flaine. Also a seriouse route to Servos. Best true touring is in the Aravis, 1hour drive away. There is endess rock climbing with three massive guidebooks within a one hour radius, that includes Chamonix.