Chamonix & Baldersheim, France

While you could take the train through Switzerland from Baldersheim outside Mulhouse, I would rent a Swiss car, since you are likely to need it in Baldersheim and it will make things much easier to get to & around Chamonix later.
However, I would not drive the 3.5 hours from Geneva to Baldersheim right upon arrival from an overnight flight from the US. I would strongly recommend stopping somewhere closer to Geneva, like Chexbres above the lake or the cute town of Murten/Morat.

I cannot advise any hotels in Chamonix but I can advise against Folie Douce if you value sleep and quiet.

I am also considering flying into Zurich as the fares are much less. How about Interlaken as another destination instead of Chamonix? Thank you for your input.

Well, if you decide on the Interlaken area, it is also a very good choice, and certainly a more convenient choice. But rather than staying in Interlaken, try staying further into the mountains: Wengen or Mürren are unique in that they are car-free, and there is also Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.

The views are stunning and there is a lot to do.

In such a case, you should definitely take the train from Zurich, and you are almost guaranteed to benefit from the purchase of a one-month Half Fare Card to offset the hefty train and and cable car prices.

Then, you can travel from Interlaken to Mulhouse by train, and rent a car in Mulhouse if you need one in Baldersheim, or just take a taxi, it is not far.

I have been to those places you mentioned but many years ago. Do you have a suggestion of a hotel in any of the towns? What is the best way to travel around to these places? I was with a tour before so a bus was provided.
Can I purchase the Half Fare Card online?
Thank you for your help.

If you’re going to fly into Zurich, I would suggest you drop Chamonix. In which case, I agree - don’t stay Interlaken. Catch one more train to Lauterbrunnen, where you’ll be in a valley with the Alps rising on either side. Or better yet, stay in either Murren or Wengen high in the Alps - you’ll never be sorry. Looking at Baldersheim on the map, there doesn’t seem to be an easy commute to Chamonix. It sounds like more of your trip is in Switzerland rather than France. You might get some good input on that forum.

Thanks for your help!