The Montenvers train

A spectacular journey to the heart of the mountains

At an altitude of 1,913 metres, facing the Mer de Glace, the Montenvers Train takes you to the heart of the Alps in a breathtaking setting. A must-see in Chamonix this summer, with its railway heritage and breathtaking panorama.

Not to be missed A century-old train

Introduced in 1908, the Train du Montenvers is one of the last rack-and-pinion trains still in operation in France. Linking Chamonix to the Montenvers site, it offers a journey of around twenty minutes on board its emblematic red carriages. This masterpiece of Alpine engineering made a mineral and glacial world accessible that was once the preserve of mountaineers. Today, it is a living testimony to the Chamonix valley‘s mountain and tourist past.

©Montenvers train|©Régie Départementale du train du Montenvers - La Société Secrète

Experience Immersion in front of the Mer de Glace

At an altitude of 1,913 metres, the Montenvers site offers a breathtaking panorama of the Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier, over 7 km long. In summer, the site becomes a veritable gateway to the world of glaciers. The famous ice grotto is dug into the glacier every year, a bluish tunnel with surreal reflections that plunges visitors into the shifting bowels of the mountain. Not far away, the Glaciorium offers an educational exploration of the formation of glaciers, their evolution over time and the effects of climate change. Interactive panels, videos and models make this visit accessible to all, young and old alike. For nature lovers, there are several signposted footpaths leading from the site to the Plan de l’Aiguille refuge and the Charpoua refuge. Whether you come for the science, the walk or simply to marvel, Montenvers promises a unique immersion in the world of the high mountains, between natural grandeur and environmental awareness.

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Summer season Escapade between nature and heritage

In summer, the Montenvers Train becomes much more than just a means of transport: it’s an adventure accessible to all, ideal for families. The journey itself is a discovery in itself, winding through forests, tunnels and viaducts. On arrival, visitors can enjoy a number of activities: lunch, discover the temporary exhibitions or simply soak up the silence and majesty of the site. A refreshing interlude at altitude, facing the peaks of the Mont Blanc massif .