The friendly and popular game par excellence is pétanque! Very widespread in the south of France, it has gained fans in the mountains and particularly in Chamonix where these bowling alleys have breathtaking views!
In the hamlet of Lavancher…
In this small hamlet which overlooks the Chamonix valley, some chalets have a pétanque area. It must be said that this pastime adapts to any physical condition and… it’s relaxing!
The hotel Jeu de Paume au Lavancher has decided to follow this nice trend by equipping itself with a pétanque court with a breathtaking view towards the Col de Balme.
The origins
Invented in the town of La Ciotat, close to Marseille, Modern pétanque was formalized in the 1900s even though it derives from a game of boules played since antiquity.
The word “pétanque” comes from the expression “pès tancats” meaning “feet together.” And everyone has in mind the characteristic image of the player with feet together, knees bent, gaze fixed…
Popularity
There are many pétanque tournaments in France and around the world. It remains a very popular leisure and sport because it is associated with relaxation and, above all, conviviality.
The relative simplicity of the game has made it popular: you just have to throw the ball as close as possible to the “jacket”… But be careful, maximum concentration is required!

Why not take advantage of it during our barbecue days 😉
