Totally out of the question to visit Haute-Savoie without seeing Chamonix and its mystics peaks… a once-in-a-lifetime wonder ! An unforgettable day tour !
During winter...
In the morning, a visit to one of the two main sites:
The Aiguille du Midi : one of the world’s highest cable cars will
take you up to 3,842 m altitude in just 20 minutes. Get ready for a
mind-blowing view! And, while you’re there, experience the ultimate
thrill and “Step into the Void” ® (subject to opening)
OR
Montenvers Mer de Glace (glacier): get on-board the charming
little red train on the rack and pinion railway that will take you up
1,000 metres. Once you arrive at your 1,923 m high destination, you’ll
have a few steps to walk down (... about 500 actually which, of course,
you’ll have to climb back up again). But the unbelievable display staged
by the Mer de Glace and its ice cave, which is dug out and re-sculpted
every year, is worth the effort.
Then on for lunch in the centre of Chamonix or at the Montenvers Grand
Hôtel restaurant, depending on the site you choose to visit. Built in
1880, it is one of the oldest dormitory-style, high-altitude
hotel-restaurants.
After lunch, head off on a guided tour to discover the fascinating history of Chamonix and its remarkable attractions!
Then enjoy some free time ‘mountain’ shopping in the town’s pedestrian
streets, exploring the Alpine Museum (history of skiing and
mountaineering) or strolling along the Arve River.
During spring, summer & autumn...
The day begins early with a trip to the Aiguille du Midi.
Then on for lunch at the Montenvers Grand Hôtel restaurant (reopening in
June 2017), or in one of the restaurants in Chamonix. Afternoon: a
visit to Montenvers Mer de Glace (glacier), and its Grotte de
Glace (ice cave), accessible on foot (20 min) or by gondola lift (note:
there are around 400 steps between the gondola lift stop and the
entrance to the cave).
Then enjoy some free time shopping in Chamonix... don’t forget to use
our list of favourite addresses!