The Montenvers train, a unique excursion to Chamonix
Walking through the streets of Chamonix in Haute-Savoie, you can see some mythical peaks of the Alps such as Mont-Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi. The region is also home to a magnificent glacier, the Mer de Glace. To get there, you have to take the Montenvers train, a rack and pinion train that went into service over a century ago, in 1908. The climb offers breathtaking views of the Chamonix valley. On arrival, at an altitude of more than 1,900 m, you will be able to contemplate this atypical glacier and other giants that culminate at more than 3,000 m above sea level. You will find a cafeteria on site to eat and drink your coffee facing the glacier before going back down.
Montenvers train prices:
- Adults and over 14 years old: € 34
- Children from 5 to 14 years old: € 28.90
- Children under 5: Free
- Family Pass: 105.40 €
- Open every day of the year from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (depending on weather conditions).
The Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France
Located in the Mont-Blanc massif, the Mer de Glace is a 40 km2 glacier almost 7 km long, formed at an altitude of over 2,100 m. Its thickness reaches 300 m in places. The largest glacier in France, it is approached each year by nearly a million visitors who access it by the Montenvers train. A visit that has become essential for all visitors who venture into the Chamonix valley.
To see and do at the Mer de Glace
If there are many activities waiting for you at the Glance Sea, here are the two main ones.
The ice cave
Most of the underground cavities are the work of Mother Nature. The fabulous ice cave that awaits you when you get off the rack train has, however, been carved by man. What purpose ? To allow visitors to enter the interior of the glacier. To get there, you have two options: take a cable car or take a small path that leads to the entrance of the cave (20 minutes walk). Whatever you decide, you will have to climb more than 400 steps to get inside the tunnels. The ice cave is re-cut every year.
The glaciorium
If you are curious by nature, many questions will come to mind when you visit the Mer de Glace and enter the ice cave. How are glaciers formed? How do they evolve over time? Why are they always on the move? Why do they change color? Why are they a very useful source of information for scientists studying the effects of climate change? All the answers to these questions can be found in the glaciorium. This cultural space suitable for all ages allows you to learn all the secrets of glaciers and to raise public awareness of the role of men in protecting the environment.
Do you like the great outdoors? Discover the most beautiful hikes around Chamonix.
