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Mountain train · Chamonix, Auvérnia-Ródano-Alpes
Tramway du Mont-Blanc
Rack railway that departs from Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet and climbs to the Nid d'Aigle at 2,412 meters, the highest railway station in France, facing the Bionnassay glacier.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tramway du Mont-Blanc
The Tramway du Mont-Blanc is a rack railway built between 1909 and 1914 with the idea of reaching the summit of Mont Blanc. It never made it there, but it is the highest railway line in France.
The train departs from Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet station at 581 meters, passes through Saint-Gervais, Col de Voza and Bellevue near Les Houches, and reaches the Nid d'Aigle at 2,412 meters, opposite the Bionnassay glacier.
In the European summer, the Nid d'Aigle is the starting point for trails and for the normal climbing route to Mont Blanc, used by climbers with guides. A viewpoint allows you to see the glacier’s seracs up close. In winter, the train only runs as far as Bellevue and serves skiers in the Les Houches area.
The train operates seasonally: generally it runs to Nid d'Aigle from June to September and to Bellevue from December to March, with a pause between seasons. Check the dates before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, including the climb to Nid d'Aigle and time at the top.
Best time
From June to September to reach Nid d'Aigle on clear-sky days. Depart early to avoid queues and afternoon clouds. Check the season dates before you go.
How to get there
The departure station is next to Gare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet, about 25 km from Chamonix by Mont-Blanc Express train or by car.
Tip
Bring warm clothing and hiking shoes: it’s cold at Nid d'Aigle and the terrain is rocky. Travelers arriving by TGV at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet can fit the outing into the trip to Chamonix.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tramway du Mont-Blanc
Does the Tramway du Mont-Blanc reach the summit of Mont Blanc?
No. It goes to Nid d'Aigle at 2,412 meters, opposite the Bionnassay glacier. The climb to the summit is done only by mountaineers.
Where does the train depart from?
From Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet station, about 25 km from Chamonix.
Does it run all year?
No. Generally it goes to the Nid d'Aigle from June to September and to Bellevue from December to March, with a break between seasons. Confirm the dates.
Do you need a jacket?
Yes. The Nid d'Aigle is at 2,412 meters, where it gets cold even in summer.