Le Balcon de Merlet
Mountain restaurant beside Parc de Merlet above Les Houches, with a panoramic terrace facing Mont Blanc. Traditional Savoyard dishes and homemade desserts at around 1,500 m—an ideal lunch stop after the wildlife park or a hike.
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Key takeaways
- Mountain setting with big views—access varies by season.
- French/Savoyard classics—expect hearty mountain portions.
- Check current opening times before you go—hours change seasonally.
Le Balcon de Merlet offers one of the most breathtaking dining locations in the Chamonix Valley. Situated at 1,534 m on the edge of the Parc de Merlet wildlife park, this rustic restaurant truly lives up to its name as a “balcony” overlooking the mountains. It’s accessible by a scenic drive (or hike) up above Les Houches, and many visitors combine it with a visit to see the ibex and deer in the park next door . The restaurant itself looks like a large chalet perched on the mountainside, with a spacious terrace that boasts what many call one of the most beautiful panoramas in the valley – an unobstructed view of the Mont Blanc massif across the valley. Inside, the decor is simple and no-frills: long canteen-style tables and benches, wood-paneled walls, and alpine knick-knacks. It feels a bit like a mountain refuge, which adds to its charm. The vibe is friendly and unpretentious – hikers with backpacks mingle with families and tourists who drove up for the view. It’s usually only open in the daytime (and some evenings by reservation in summer), aligning with the park’s hours.
Hearty Savoyard Fare
The kitchen at Le Balcon de Merlet serves traditional Savoyard and French country cuisine , just the kind of hearty dishes you’d want after a walk in the mountains. Their menu isn’t extensive, but everything is home-cooked and satisfying. A staple here is the tartiflette , that heavenly casserole of potatoes, bacon, onions, and Reblochon cheese – perfect for a cooler day. They also do a mean diot sausage with polenta , covered in a rich onions-and-red-wine gravy. If you come in summer , you might find daily specials like boeuf bourguignon (slow-cooked beef stew) or grilled trout sourced from a local river . A big attraction is their selection of cheese dishes : fondue, raclette, and even a simple plate of aged Beaufort cheese with bread, celebrating the local dairy products. To start, a bowl of hearty29 13 vegetable soup or a Savoyard salad with walnuts and lardons does nicely. Desserts stick to tradition – think tarte aux myrtilles (blueberry tart) which, when blueberries are in season, is a must-try, or a classic crème caramel. The restaurant is also happy to pour you a génépi (herbal liqueur) to finish your meal. It’s worth noting that given the altitude and somewhat remote location, prices are very reasonable – you’re definitely paying for the food, not the view (the view is a free bonus!).
Visiting Tips & Experience
Le Balcon de Merlet is usually open from spring through early autumn (approximately May to September) in alignment with the Merlet park season . It can be a fantastic lunch stop during a day of hiking; several trails in Les Houches and neighbouring Servoz pass nearby. If you plan to eat lunch after visiting the park, arriving a bit on the early side (around 11:45–12:00) can help you snag a terrace table right at the front for the best view. On sunny days, the panoramic terrace fills up with diners marveling at the Mont Blanc while they eat – truly an Instagram-worthy scene. The staff are accustomed to international visitors and are happy to explain dishes if you’re unfamiliar . Because it’s remote, they don’t really do takeaway (you’re meant to sit and savor the moment here). Also, there’s no public transport directly to Merlet, so you’ll need to drive or hike up (the drive is about 15–20 minutes from Les Houches center , with parking available). Insider Tip: Pair your meal with a visit to the Merlet Animal Park (you can often see llamas or deer roaming on the hillside just below the restaurant as you dine!). And bring a light jacket – even in summer , the elevation can make it a bit breezy on the terrace. Le Balcon de Merlet is a memorable spot where hearty Savoyard food meets unbeatable alpine views , making your cheese fondue that much more special.
Practical info
- Address: Parc de Merlet Restaurant 74310 Les Houches
- Phone: +33 6 07 87 81 76
- Website: https://www.parcdemerlet.com/restaurant
- Google Maps: View location
FAQ
- Do I need to book in advance?
- In peak winter and summer weeks, booking is recommended. Call ahead or use the official website/Instagram for the most up-to-date reservations info.
- Is it suitable for families?
- Generally yes, but the vibe can be calmer and more ‘grown-up’ in the evenings—check the restaurant’s style and timings.
- Are there vegetarian options?
- Most menus include vegetarian choices. If you have allergies or dietary requirements, it’s best to call ahead.
- How do you get there?
- Access depends on the season. In winter many guests arrive by ski/lift, while in summer it’s usually reached on foot via hiking paths (or by road where applicable). Check current access info before you go.
- What are the opening times?
- Opening days and service times vary by season. Always check the official site, social channels or Google Maps listing for the latest hours.
Need a transfer to Les Houches?
If you’re planning your trip to the Chamonix Valley, Mountain Drop-offs provides private airport and resort transfers from Geneva to Les Houches—useful if you want to avoid hire-car logistics in winter.
