The Montenvers-Mer de Glace train

Hop on the famous rack-and-pinion railway, which takes passengers from Chamonix to the tourist site of Montenvers at an altitude of 1,913 m. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Mer de Glace glacier, the Drus and the Grands Jorasses

ICE CAVE
Once at your destination, take a tour of the Ice Cave and get a glimpse into the very heart of the glacier. The cave is dug out anew every year and inside, it portrays mountain life in the early 19th century. Two ways to get there: follow the footpath for a 20-minute or so walk or take the cable car. Please note: there are around 550 steps from the cable car terminal to the cave entrance.

THE GLACIORIUM
The Montenvers site testifies to climate change in our day and age and is thus the ideal spot for a glaciology information centre. The Mer de Glace, its formation, history and future evolution are all explained as you visit the interactive exhibitions.

The complete tour (including the cave and the journey time) takes an average 2-3 hours, although it can be double that during peak periods.

HIKING
Hikers can walk from Montenvers to Plan de l'Aiguille via the Grand Balcon Nord trail, or head down to Chamonix via Les Planards or the village of Les Bois.

WHERE TO EAT
When it's time to eat, there are three options: a Savoyard or traditional meal at the Restaurant du Refuge du Montenvers, lunch in a bistro with a view at Panoramique Mer de Glace, or a quick snack at the Bar des Glaciers.

WHERE TO STAY
Hotel du Montenvers reopened on 1st July 2017 after refurbishment by Maisons et Hotels Sibuet, a leader in the mountain resort hotel sector for over 30 years now.
Terminal Neige – Refuge has a 10-bed dormitory, double and family rooms, and suites, all in a traditional mountain refuge setting.

Ticket offices open all year round from 8 am to 6 pm.