Bookings only via the website

Mer de Glace and Montenvers train

The famous little cogwheel train from Chamonix

It takes you to the Montenvers site at 1913 m. A breathtaking panorama of the Mer de Glace glacier, the Drus and the Grandes Jorasses.

Montenvers train

The Montenvers Train, one of the few rack-rail trains to operate on gradients of over 9%, offers an exceptional journey between Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Montenvers. This train, one of only 5 in France, covers the 5.1-kilometre route in just 20 minutes, taking you to an altitude of 1913 metres. As you ascend, enjoy spectacular views of the Drus, Grandes Jorasses and Grands Charmoz, offering a breathtaking panorama of one of the most beautiful regions of Mont-Blanc.

Mer de Glace cable car

Climb aboard the new Mer de Glace gondola for a spectacular panoramic journey, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re looking for a thrill or a moment of tranquillity in the heart of nature, this gondola promises a unique experience. The gondola also takes you to the famous Grotte de Glace, a magical place where you’ll experience unforgettable memories as you explore this incredible natural site.

Ice cave

Discover the magic of the new Grotte de Glace, naturally sculpted by man ‘the grottus’ in the ice. This unique sensory experience will amaze visitors of all ages.

The Glacorium

The Montenvers site is an emblematic place for observing the effects of climate change. An interactive area is now dedicated to glaciology, offering a complete overview of the Sea of Ice: its formation, history and future developments. A visit to this educational site will take you right to the heart of current environmental issues. The complete visit, including exploration of the cave and the routes, generally lasts between 2 and 3 hours. In high season, the visit may be extended due to the large number of visitors.

Catering

There are 3 ways to eat: either a Savoyard or traditional meal at the Refuge du Montenvers restaurant, or a quick bite at the Bar des Glaciers, or the Panoramique restaurant overlooking the glacier!

Hotels

The Refuge du Montenvers was inaugurated on 1 July 2017 after a renovation by the Maisons et Hôtels Sibuet label, a major player in the mountain hotel industry for over 30 years. This unique refuge offers a 10-bed dormitory, double rooms, family rooms and suites, all in the authentic atmosphere of a traditional mountain refuge.

Prices

Adult: €39.50 (Train + cable car + cave included)
Child (5-14 years): €33.60 (Child and senior 65+ rate; Train + cable car + cave included)
Family package: €122.50 (Train + cable car + cave included)
Disabled: 50% discount on presentation of disability card, 50% discount for accompanying adult on day pass or return ticket.

Free for children under 5.
Group rate for 20 people or more.

Return train ticket only:
Adult: €31, Child/Senior 65+: €26.40, Family: €96.20
(These tickets are only on sale at the Montenvers ticket office at the moment).

Vallée Blanche return :
Return train + cable car + cave: Adult 33€, Child/Senior 28,10€.

Site package: Gondola + cave without train: Adults 25€, Children/Seniors 21,30€.

This site is included in the MONT BLANC UNLIMITED PASS / Summer Multipass.

Opening dates

From 30/11/2024 to 14/03/2025
Open every day from 10am to 4.30pm.
Last descent every day at 4.30pm.
Last boarding daily at 4pm.
A train every hour or every 30 minutes depending on the number of passengers.
Last departure from Chamonix to visit the ice cave at 2pm.

From 15/03 to 11/05/2025
Open every day from 10am to 5pm.
Last descent every day at 5pm.
Last ascent every day at 4.30pm.
A train every hour or every 30 minutes depending on the number of passengers.
Last departure from Chamonix to visit the ice cave at 2.30pm.

From 12/05 to 23/05/2025.
Closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and weekends.
ANNUAL CLOSURE.

Subject to favourable weather conditions.