Journey to the heart of the Alps and the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley
Exploring the Mont-Blanc massif means venturing into a 400 km² region spread over 3 countries. The massif stretches across Haute-Savoie and Savoie in France, the Aosta Valley in Italy, and the canton of Valais in Switzerland. Mont Blanc is distinguished from other Alpine massifs by its almost desert-like character. The high elevation and marked presence of glaciers make this area unsuitable for permanent habitation: you cross Mont-Blanc, but you don't live there. This lack of habitation contributes to the appeal and mystery of the massif, offering a true high-mountain experience.
Thanks to its cable cars, including the famous Aiguille du Midi, sports enthusiasts from all over Europe can explore this magnificent natural setting in a variety of ways. From hiking trails to renowned climbing routes, from paragliding take-off points to mountain bike trails, the options are numerous. Whatever the season of your visit (summer, winter or in-between), there are plenty of ways to discover the Mont-Blanc massif!
Mont Blanc Massif map: places to visit
Aiguille du Midi
TheAiguille du Midi is a summit accessible via an impressive cable car from Chamonix. It serves as an exceptional vantage point with panoramic views of the Mont-Blanc massif and surrounding peaks. It's also an ideal starting point for mountaineers and thrill-seekers, with its famous " Pas dans le Vide".
Eagle's nest
Reached by the Mont-Blanc tramway, the Nid d'Aigle offers a majestic view of the massif and is the starting point for the ascent of the Mont-Blanc massif by the classic route. It's the perfect place for hikers looking to immerse themselves in Alpine nature!
Les Drus
The summit is renowned for its vertical faces and attracts climbers from all over the world. Located in the Chamonix valley, it offers spectacular views of the Mer de Glace and is a subject of fascination for photographers and mountain lovers alike.
Mont-Blanc du Tacul
Accessible to mountaineers, Mont-Blanc du Tacul offers several ascent routes and is an excellent introduction to high-altitude mountaineering. Its slopes are also popular for ski touring, offering memorable descents.
Bossons glacier
Visible from Chamonix, this glacier is the lowest in Europe and offers guided hikes to explore its unique glacial formations. It's an excellent site for understanding glacier dynamics and the impact of climate change on the Mont-Blanc massif.
Mer de Glace
France's largest glacier is accessible via the picturesque Montenvers cog railway. Visitors can explore the ice cave and discover the glacier's evolution over time, while enjoying a historic setting enriched by the Musée des Cristaux and the Hôtel de Montenvers.
Aiguille Verte
It's a challenge for experienced mountaineers! TheAiguille Verte offers complex ascents and rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the Mont-Blanc massif. It is famous for its historic climbing routes and striking alpine scenery.
Argentière glacier
Located in the Chamonix valley, this vast glacier is a favorite terrain for ski touring and mountaineering. Nearby hiking trails offer close-up views of crevasses and seracs, giving visitors an immersive experience into the world of glaciers.
The Tour du Mont-Blanc, the legendary hiking circuit
The Tour du Mont-Blanc is an emblematic adventure in the heart of the Alps. Hikers have the opportunity to cross extraordinarily diverse Alpine landscapes, with breathtaking views of the glaciers of the Mont-Blanc massif. This unique trek takes you through 3 countries (France, Italy and Switzerland), across 7 valleys surrounded by 71 glaciers and more than 400 summits: the ideal way to enjoy an experience rich in emotion and sharing.
This route traverses Alpine valleys of breathtaking beauty: discover spectacular waterfalls, picturesque alpine chalets, sparkling lakes, impressive needles and dizzying glaciers. The Classic Tour starts in the Chamonix Valley and winds through Argentière, Courmayeur, Champex and Les Contamines-Montjoie. Cross majestic passes such as Col de la Seigne and Grand Col Ferret, which rise to over 2,500 meters.
Suitable for everyone, from experienced hikers to families looking for a memorable adventure, the Tour du massif du Mont-Blanc offers multi-day itineraries with varying levels of difficulty. Access to the lifts makes the trip even more enjoyable. Accompanied by guides with in-depth knowledge of the region, participants discover the fauna, flora and cultural heritage of the Northern Alps. Stays in mountain huts guarantee complete immersion in the mountains, a deep reconnection with nature. For those looking for greater comfort, tours with hotel accommodation are also available!
Things to do in the Mont Blanc range
In the Mont-Blanc massif, there's no risk of getting bored! There's a wide choice of activities to enjoy on your own or with the whole family, whether you're a sporty type or just looking for a relaxing vacation getaway. The Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley welcomes you in summer and winter to enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Our main activities include :
- Hiking: explore the massif's hiking trails to discover the diversity of Alpine landscapes, from verdant valleys to snow-capped peaks. In the Mont-Blanc massif, there are itineraries to suit all levels of walker.
- Ski touring: this activity combines the ascent of snow-covered slopes with the descent of virgin terrain, offering a unique skiing experience far from the marked trails.
- Paragliding: paragliding from the heights of Mont-Blanc offers a breathtaking aerial view of Alpine peaks and valleys, an experience of absolute freedom.
- Horse-riding: exploring the Mont-Blanc massif on horseback is an authentic way of exploring mountain trails and paths in harmony with nature.
- Dog sledding: cross the snow-covered landscapes of Mont Blanc pulled by a dog sled team and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of polar expeditions.
- Mountain biking : Mountain bikers will be delighted by our varied itineraries, with technical descents and challenging climbs, as well as breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks.
- Mountaineering: climbing the peaks of Mont-Blanc (including the famous roof of Europe!) is a challenge for experienced mountaineers. You can also try your hand at ski mountaineering!
- Microlight: flying a microlight over Mont Blanc offers a sensation of lightness and a panoramic view of glaciers, peaks and alpine valleys.
- Hot-air ballooning: letting yourself be carried by the winds in a hot-air balloon over Mont-Blanc is a peaceful and magical experience. Enjoy sublime aerial views at sunrise or sunset.
