Journey to the heart of the Alps and the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley
Exploring the Mont-Blanc massif means venturing into a region of 400 km² divided between 3 countries. This massif extends across Haute-Savoie and Savoy in France, the Aosta Valley in Italy, and the canton of Valais in Switzerland. Mont-Blanc is different from the others Alpine mountains by its almost desert character. The high elevation and the marked presence of glaciers make this area unsuitable for permanent residence: you cross Mont-Blanc, but you don't live there. This absence of housing contributes to the attractiveness and mystery of the massif, offering a true high mountain experience.
Thanks to its cable cars, including the famous Aiguille du Midi, the sports fans from all over Europe can explore this magnificent natural setting in a variety of ways. Between hiking trails, renowned climbing routes, take-off areas for paragliders, or mountain bike trails, the options are numerous. Regardless of the season of your visit (summer, winter, or in-between), there are a multitude of ways to discover the Mont-Blanc massif !
Map of the Mont-Blanc massif: places to visit
Aiguille du Midi
THEAiguille du Midi is a summit accessible via an impressive cable car starting from Chamonix. It serves as an exceptional belvedere with a panoramic view of the Mont-Blanc massif and the surrounding peaks. It is also a privileged starting point for mountaineers and thrill seekers with its famous” Not in the Void“.
Eagle's nest
Reachable by the Mont-Blanc tramway, the Eagle's nest offers a majestic view of the massif and is the starting point for climbing the Mont-Blanc massif by the classical route. It is a perfect place for hikers looking to immerse themselves in alpine nature!
Les Drus
This 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.
Mont-Blanc du Tacul
Accessible for mountaineers, the Mont-Blanc du Tacul offers several climbing 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 glacier formations. It is an excellent site for understanding the dynamics of glaciers and the impacts of climate change on the Mont-Blanc massif.
Mer de Glace
The largest glacier in France can be reached via the picturesque Montenvers cogwheel train. Visitors can explore the ice cave and discover the evolution of the glacier over time, while enjoying a historic setting enriched by the Crystal Museum and the Hotel de Montenvers.
Aiguille Verte
It's a challenge for experienced mountaineers! THEAiguille Verte offers complex climbs and rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the Mont-Blanc massif. It is famous for its historic climbing routes and striking alpine landscapes.
Argentière glacier
Located in the Chamonix Valley, This vast glacier is a favorite terrain for ski touring and mountaineering. The nearby hiking trails allow you to admire the crevasses and seracs up close, allowing visitors to have an immersive experience in the world of glaciers.
The Tour of Mont-Blanc, the mythical hiking circuit
The Tour of Mont-Blanc represents an iconic adventure in the heart of the Alps. Hikers have the opportunity to cross alpine landscapes of extraordinary diversity, with breathtaking views of the glaciers of the Mont-Blanc massif. This unique trek makes you discover 3 countries (France, Italy and Switzerland), crosses 7 valleys surrounded by 71 glaciers and more than 400 peaks: ideal for experiences rich in emotion and sharing.
This route crosses strikingly beautiful alpine valleys: discover spectacular waterfalls, picturesque alpine chalets, sparkling lakes, impressive peaks and vertiginous glaciers. The Classic Tour starts in the Chamonix Valley and winds through Argentière, Courmayeur, Champex and Les Contamines-Montjoie. Cross majestic passes such as the Col de la Seigne and the Grand Col Ferret, which rise to over 2,500 meters above sea level.
Suitable for everyone, from experienced hikers to families looking for a memorable adventure, the Tour of the Mont-Blanc Massif offers multi-day itineraries with varying levels of difficulty. Access to Ski lifts makes the trip even more enjoyable. Accompanied by guides who know the region perfectly, participants discover the fauna, flora and cultural heritage of Northern Alps. Shelter stays guarantee a complete immersion in mountain, a profound reconnection with nature. For those looking for more comfort, tours with hotel accommodations are also available!
Things to do in the Mont-Blanc range
In the Mont-Blanc massif, there is no risk of getting bored! There is a wide choice of activities to do alone or with the family, whether you are sporty or are looking for relaxation and the escape of the holidays. The Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley welcomes you summer and winter to give you unforgettable experiences.
Among the main activities, we find:
- Hiking : walking the hiking trails of the massif allows you to discover the diversity of alpine landscapes, from green valleys to snowy peaks. In the Mont-Blanc massif, there are itineraries adapted to all levels of walkers.
- Back-country skiing : this activity combines climbing snowy slopes and descending on virgin terrain, offering a unique skiing experience away from marked trails.
- Paragliding : flying from the heights of Mont-Blanc in paragliding offers a breathtaking aerial perspective on the Alpine peaks and valleys, an experience of absolute freedom.
- Cheval : exploring the Mont-Blanc massif on horseback allows you to travel mountain trails and paths in an authentic way, in harmony with nature.
- Sled dogs : cross the snowy landscapes of Mont-Blanc pulled by a team of sled dogs and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of polar expeditions.
- MTB : mountain bike enthusiasts will find happiness in varied itineraries, with technical descents and demanding climbs, but also breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks.
- Mountaineering : the ascent of the peaks of Mont-Blanc (including the famous roof of Europe!) represents a challenge for experienced mountaineers. You can also try your hand at Ski mountaineering !
- ULM: flying in a microlight over Mont-Blanc offers a feeling of lightness and a panoramic view of the glaciers, peaks and alpine valleys.
- Hot air balloon : letting yourself be carried by the winds in a hot air balloon over Mont-Blanc is a peaceful and magical experience. Enjoy the sublime aerial views at sunrise or sunset.
