The Grotte de Glace in Chamonix: an attraction not to be missed
France's only glacier museum
One of Haute-Savoie's most famous glaciers, the Mer de Glace holds a surprising treasure. Perched at an altitude of 1,913 metres, it is home to the most unusual cave in the entire Mont-Blanc massif. Chamonix's famous Grotte de Glace was carved out of the interior of this glacier, which occupies the Montenvers site, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and the Vallée Blanche.
The Grotte de Glace was carved out by man to form France's one and only glacier museum! 1992 was the year when things really clicked: two mountain guide friends entered the grotto, which winds its way through the Mer de Glace, and realized its immense potential.
To bring their vision to life, they call on sculptors from all over the country to immortalize the great events of our era in frozen water. Adept at misappropriating objects, they use wood saws and even irons and curling irons to work on this collection, which evolves every year.
A unique natural treasure in Haute-Savoie
The Grotte de Glace de Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is also home to the Glaciorum, which adds an educational and entertaining dimension to this superb Haute-Savoie cave. The Glaciorum is an interpretation center designed to answer questions asked by visitors to the Mer de Glace de Chamonix, particularly in relation to climate and the environment, and the impact of climate change on the mountains.
You'll learn all about the delicate balance of the ice and how everyone can help preserve the environment. The total visit (including cave tour and transportation) takes an average of 2-3 hours. Please note, however, that this time may be doubled during peak periods.
Last but not least, the Montenvers site also appeals to gourmets, who can enjoy local culinary specialities in a panoramic restaurant at an altitude of 1,200 metres. Sensations guaranteed! For a bite to eat, you can enjoy a traditional Savoyard meal at the Restaurant du Refuge du Montenvers, or opt for fast food at the Bar des Glaciers.
How do I get to the Grotte de Glace in Chamonix?
On the little train
If you want to visit Chamonix's Grotte de Glace, the Montenvers valley can be reached by small train from the Montenvers site. Operating every day of the year since 1908, the Petit Train du Montenvers is a red cogwheel train that follows a traditional railroad line, and is well worth the detour on its own. You'll enjoy breathtaking views not only of the Mer de Glace itself, but also of the Drus and the Grandes Jorasses.
Board this train in Chamonix (not far from the Refuge des Aiglons) and travel through rock-cut tunnels, viaducts and mountainside passages to Montenvers-Mer de Glace. This funicular train departs from Chamonix and climbs along the valley's spires to an altitude of 1,913 meters. The journey takes around 20 minutes, at a speed of 14 to 20 km/h. From here, a pulsating gondola takes you directly to the stairs leading to the Grotte de Glace de Chamonix.
Chamonix's Grotte de Glace station is located on a rocky ridge overlooking the Mer de Glace glacier. Here you'll find a museum of alpine fauna and a magnificent exhibition of mountain crystals found in the region.
By road
Or would you prefer to take the footpath? In that case, be prepared to walk down (but especially up!) 550 steps. But don't worry: it's well worth the effort, and the climb will take you no more than 20-30 minutes.
For walkers, there are also several hikes to the glacier de la mer, including the Montenvers - Plan de l'Aiguille traverse via the large north balcony, or the descent to Chamonix via Les Planards or the village of Les Bois. You'll discover the whole of the Chamonix valley! In summer, don't hesitate to leave the train station to enjoy the beautiful walks up to the Plan de l'Aiguille, before descending into the valley on foot.
What else is there to do in the Chamonix valley?
The Grotte de Glace in Chamonix is a must-see, but it's not the only treasure in the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley. The Aiguille du Midi is a must-see at least once in your life. In 20 to 30 minutes, you'll be transported to an altitude of 3,842 meters, in the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif. Use the map to locate the Aiguille at the heart of the mythical Vallée Blanche.
As well as visiting the Grotte de Glace in Chamonix, discover other glaciers in France with the Glacier des Blossons. This focal point of the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley is the highest icefall in the Alps (3,630 m vertical drop), with snow from the Mont-Blanc, Mont-Maudit and Mont-Blanc du Tacul peaks.
Hotel Le Refuge des Aiglons welcomes you to Chamonix
To fully enjoy the treasures of the Alps, nothing beats a stay in one of Chamonix's many hotels. Our Le Refuge des Aiglons hotel welcomes you all year round: it's just a stone's throw from the ski areas, hiking trails and transport links to the most exceptional sites, such as the Grotte de Glace in Chamonix.
Authentic and designed to provide you with all the comfort you need for your mountain vacation, our rooms are perfect for a getaway for couples, families or friends. Take advantage of our many services to recharge your batteries and leave everyday worries behind for a delicious meal or a spa session.
