Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace: Gateway to a Glacial Wonderland

Discover France's largest glacier, the Mer de Glace, via the historic Montenvers Railway, explore the ice cave, and learn about glaciology in the heart of the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc region.

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Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace

Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace, nestled in the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc region, serves as the starting point for an unforgettable journey to the majestic Mer de Glace, France's largest glacier. A scenic ride on the Montenvers Railway offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the glacier, stretching over 7 kilometers. Explore the ice cave, carved annually into the glacier, showcasing fascinating ice sculptures and providing insight into the glacier's formation. The site also features a museum educating tourists on the geological history and the importance of glaciers. Numerous hiking trails cater to adventure seekers, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace promises an unforgettable alpine experience.

A brief summary to Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace

VC N°1, 74400, Chamonix, FR

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, especially if you plan to descend to the ice cave, as the steps can be slippery.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the views can be obscured by clouds or fog.
Bring warm clothing, even in summer, as the temperature at the Mer de Glace can be significantly colder than in Chamonix.
Allow at least 3-4 hours for your visit to fully experience the train ride, ice cave, and Glaciorium.
Consider purchasing the Mont Blanc MultiPass for access to multiple attractions in the Chamonix valley, including the Mer de Glace.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Chamonix city center, the final approach to Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace involves taking the Montenvers Railway. The Montenvers train station ('Gare du Montenvers') is located near the main Chamonix train station, accessible via a short walk. Purchase tickets at the Montenvers station. The train journey to the Montenvers site (Mer de Glace) takes approximately 20 minutes. A round trip ticket costs €31 for adults. From the Montenvers train station, a cable car provides access to the glacier's edge, followed by a descent of approximately 430 steps to reach the ice cave. A combined ticket for the train, cable car, ice cave, and Glaciorium costs €41.20 for adults.
Walking

For experienced hikers, it's possible to hike to the Mer de Glace via trails from Planards or the Aiguille du Midi mid-station (Plan de l'Aiguille). From Planards, follow the marked trails uphill (strenuous). From Plan de l'Aiguille, take the Grand Balcon Nord trail towards Montenvers (moderate). These hikes require proper hiking gear and physical fitness. Upon reaching the Montenvers site, access to the ice cave involves taking a cable car (€) and descending approximately 430 steps.
Driving

If arriving by car, take the A40 motorway towards Chamonix and exit at 'Chamonix-Mont-Blanc' (exit 20). Follow signs to Chamonix center. Parking is available at Planards (paid parking) or Biollay (free parking), a short walk from the Montenvers train station. From the parking areas, proceed to the Montenvers train station to purchase tickets and board the train for the final ascent to the Mer de Glace. Parking fees at Planards vary but expect to pay around €20-€25 for a full day.

Discover more about Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace

Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace, located in the heart of the Chamonix valley, is the access point to the famous Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice), France's largest glacier. This remarkable site offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and educational opportunities, making it a must-see destination for any traveler to the French Alps. The journey to the Mer de Glace begins in Chamonix, where visitors board the historic Montenvers Railway. This cogwheel train, in operation since 1908, slowly ascends the mountainside, offering passengers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Les Drus and the Grandes Jorasses. The 20-minute ride is an experience in itself, as the train climbs through tunnels carved into the rock and passes over viaducts, showcasing the engineering marvel of the railway. Upon arriving at the Montenvers station (1,913m), visitors are immediately greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the Mer de Glace. The glacier, a vast expanse of ice stretching for 7 kilometers, descends from the high peaks of the Mont Blanc massif. The sheer scale of the glacier is awe-inspiring, and the surrounding landscape is equally dramatic. One of the main attractions at the Mer de Glace is the ice cave, a man-made grotto carved into the glacier each year. Because the glacier moves approximately 70 meters annually, the cave must be re-drilled every summer to maintain access. The ice cave features intricate ice sculptures and displays that illustrate the history of the glacier and the surrounding region. Walking through the cave is a unique experience, as visitors are surrounded by the blue ice of the glacier. To reach the ice cave from the Montenvers station, a cable car descends to the edge of the glacier. From there, visitors must descend approximately 430 steps to reach the entrance of the cave. The descent can be challenging, but the experience of walking inside a glacier is well worth the effort. In addition to the ice cave, the Montenvers site also features the Glaciorium, a museum dedicated to glaciology. The Glaciorium offers interactive exhibits that explain the formation of glaciers, their history, and their importance to the environment. The museum also addresses the impact of climate change on glaciers and the surrounding ecosystem. The Glaciorium provides valuable insights into the science behind the Mer de Glace and the challenges it faces in the 21st century. For those interested in hiking, the Montenvers site offers several trails that explore the surrounding mountains. One popular option is the hike to the Plan de l'Aiguille, the mid-station of the Aiguille du Midi cable car. This trail offers stunning views of the Mer de Glace and the surrounding peaks. Another option is to hike down to Chamonix, either via Les Planards or the village of Les Bois. These hikes provide a different perspective on the glacier and the Chamonix valley. The history of the Mer de Glace is closely tied to the development of tourism in Chamonix. The glacier was first "discovered" by English explorers William Windham and Richard Pocock in 1741, and it quickly became a popular destination for travelers. In the early days, access to the glacier was difficult, requiring a long and arduous trek. However, with the construction of the Montenvers Railway in 1908, the Mer de Glace became much more accessible to the masses. The Mer de Glace has also played a role in literature and art. Mary Shelley's novel *Frankenstein* features scenes set in the Chamonix valley, and the glacier has been depicted in numerous paintings and photographs. The Mer de Glace has captured the imagination of artists and writers for centuries, and it continues to inspire awe and wonder today. Today, the Mer de Glace faces significant challenges due to climate change. The glacier has been shrinking rapidly in recent decades, and the ice cave must be re-drilled higher up the glacier each year to keep pace with the melting ice. The future of the Mer de Glace is uncertain, but efforts are underway to mitigate the impact of climate change and preserve this natural wonder for future generations. Visiting the Mer de Glace is an unforgettable experience. The combination of stunning scenery, historical significance, and educational opportunities makes it a destination that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Whether you are interested in hiking, exploring ice caves, learning about glaciers, or simply enjoying the beauty of the French Alps, the Mer de Glace is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Statue of Balmat and Saussure

5.1 km

Honoring the pioneers of Mont Blanc's first ascent, a symbol of mountaineering history in the heart of Chamonix.

Lac Blanc

8.1 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges from the stunning Lac Blanc, a pristine alpine lake near Chamonix.

Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden

9.7 km

Explore the breathtaking Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden in Aosta Valley, a stunning showcase of alpine flora amidst majestic mountain scenery.

Pavillon du Mont Fréty

9.7 km

Discover the stunning beauty of the Italian Alps at Pavillon du Mont Fréty, a mountain cabin offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

French Alps

10.6 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a charming retreat for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Rifugio Walter Bonatti

10.8 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aosta Valley at Rifugio Walter Bonatti, a cozy mountain cabin offering delicious Italian cuisine and stunning views.

Mont Blanc de Courmayeur

11.0 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Mont Blanc de Courmayeur, the crown jewel of the Italian Alps. Nature's grandeur awaits!

Skyway Monte Bianco

11.3 km

Soar to new heights at Skyway Monte Bianco, where breathtaking views and alpine adventures await in the heart of the Italian Alps.

Notre Dame de Guérison sanctuary

11.5 km

Discover peace and breathtaking beauty at Notre Dame de Guérison Sanctuary in the heart of Aosta Valley, a serene retreat for all travelers.

Auberge De La Maison

11.5 km

Discover the luxurious Auberge De La Maison in Courmayeur, where alpine charm meets modern comfort for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

Mont Chétif

13.0 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mont Chétif, an iconic mountain peak in Aosta Valley, Italy, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc

13.7 km

Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at the Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc, your perfect retreat in the Italian Alps.

Col Chécruit

13.9 km

Discover the serene beauty of Col Chécruit in Aosta Valley, a scenic spot that captivates with stunning views and outdoor adventures.

Rifugio Maison Vieille

14.0 km

Experience the charm and adventure of Rifugio Maison Vieille, the ultimate mountain cabin retreat in the heart of Aosta Valley's stunning landscapes.

Hall of Courmayeur

14.0 km

Experience the charm and culture of Courmayeur at the Hall of Courmayeur, a beautiful alpine town hall surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.

Unmissable attractions to see

Mer de Glace

1.8 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mer de Glace in Chamonix, a stunning glacier offering adventure, scenic views, and an unforgettable alpine experience.

Grotte de glace

1.8 km

Explore the breathtaking Grotte de Glace, an enchanting ice cave in Chamonix, showcasing stunning frozen formations and picturesque alpine views.

Glaciorium

2.4 km

Explore Glaciorium in Chamonix: An enchanting museum dedicated to the wonders of glaciers and the stunning beauty of the Mont Blanc region.

Viaduc de Montenvers

2.5 km

Ascend to the Mer de Glace via the historic Viaduc de Montenvers for panoramic alpine views, glacial exploration, and a journey through time on the iconic cogwheel railway.

Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix

2.6 km

Hike the iconic Grand Balcon Nord in Chamonix for breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges, and the Mer de Glace, easily accessible by cable car and cogwheel train.

Circuit le Point de Vue du Col d'Argentière

3.4 km

Discover the breathtaking alpine views and serene hiking trails at Circuit le Point de Vue du Col d'Argentière in Chamonix, a true nature lover's paradise in the French Alps.

Cascade du Flanbu

3.9 km

Discover the serene beauty of Cascade du Flanbu in Chamonix: a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and stunning Alpine views, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Pierre d'Orthaz

3.9 km

Discover Pierre d'Orthaz in Chamonix: a premier bouldering destination with stunning Mont Blanc views, offering climbers and nature lovers an unforgettable alpine experience.

Ravine viewpoint

3.9 km

Explore the stunning Ravine Viewpoint in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: a breathtaking hiking area offering panoramic views of the majestic French Alps.

Point pédestre

4.4 km

Escape to tranquility in Chamonix's Point Pédestre: Breathtaking Mont Blanc views, peaceful walks, and a perfect gateway to alpine adventures await in this serene park.

Chamonix Amusement Park

4.4 km

Experience the thrill of rides and stunning alpine views at Chamonix Amusement Park, a top family-friendly destination in the French Alps.

La pierre de Lisboli

4.5 km

Discover La Pierre de Lisboli, a glacial erratic near Chamonix, offering a glimpse into the Ice Age and stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif, a testament to nature's power.

chemin du pied du grepon

4.6 km

Discover the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Chemin du Pied du Grépon, where mountaineering history meets family fun amidst stunning alpine scenery, offering adventure for every traveler.

Mont-Blanc Natural Resort

4.7 km

Discover the breathtaking Mont-Blanc Natural Resort, a year-round destination for skiing, hiking, and stunning Alpine scenery in the heart of the French Alps, offering unforgettable adventures.

Train à crémaillère chamonix

4.7 km

Discover the breathtaking Mer de Glace glacier via the Train à crémaillère Chamonix, an unforgettable journey in the heart of the French Alps.

Essential places to dine

La Cabane Des Praz

4.7 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Cabane Des Praz in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.

L'index Chamonix

4.8 km

Experience culinary excellence at L'Index Chamonix—where fine dining meets cultural vibrancy in stunning Mont Blanc surroundings.

Albert 1er Restaurant

4.8 km

Experience exquisite fine dining at Albert 1er Restaurant in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking alpine beauty.

Restaurant gastronomique Les Tables de Philippe Chamonix Mont Blanc

4.9 km

Experience exquisite French fine dining at Les Tables de Philippe in Chamonix, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking alpine views.

Restaurant gastronomique Les Tables de Philippe Chamonix Mont Blanc

Restaurant CASABIANCO

Experience authentic French fondue and raclette at Le Monchu, nestled in scenic Chamonix-Mont-Blanc - a culinary delight amidst breathtaking mountains.

Explore L'Insoumise, a stylish women's clothing store in Chamonix, featuring unique fashion pieces and accessories amidst stunning alpine views.

Discover Bar Du Moulin, a cozy bar in Chamonix offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning alpine scenery.

La soeur

Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at L’Alibi Bar in Chamonix, where handcrafted drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

CARMEN Club

5.2 km

Discover the pulse of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc's nightlife at CARMEN Club, where unforgettable nights and vibrant beats await.

CHAMONIX AMNESIA CLUB

5.2 km

Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Chamonix Amnesia Club, where unforgettable parties and stunning alpine views collide in the heart of the French Alps.

Club 1969 @LA FOLIE DOUCE HOTELS CHAMONIX

5.3 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club 1969, nestled in Chamonix's stunning landscapes, where music and atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

Club 1969 @LA FOLIE DOUCE HOTELS CHAMONIX

Shatush Mont Blanc

11.4 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Shatush Mont Blanc, where dance, cocktails, and unforgettable moments await you in the heart of Courmayeur.

THE CLUB Courmayeur - FORGES 5

13.9 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Club Courmayeur, where great food meets electric dance vibes amidst stunning Alpine scenery.

Club Haus 80's Courmayeur Mont Blanc

14.4 km

Discover the best of 80's nostalgia and dance the night away at Club Haus 80's, a top disco club in Courmayeur Mont Blanc!

Le Privè LTH

22.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Le Privè LTH, La Thuile's premier disco club offering unforgettable dance experiences in the heart of the Alps.

La Place

22.8 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of La Place, a cozy bar in La Thuile, where local flavors and alpine charm come together for an unforgettable evening.

Bar La Buvette

22.8 km

Discover the cozy charm of Bar La Buvette in La Thuile - where Alpine hospitality meets stunning mountain views.

Zanzibar

23.6 km

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Zanzibar Disco Club in Martigny, where music and dance come alive in an unforgettable nightlife experience.

Ristorante Roxy

24.3 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine and vibrant local flavors at Ristorante Roxy in the heart of La Thuile's stunning Aosta Valley.

Kheops Discothèque

24.5 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Kheops Discothèque in Martigny, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

Sphinx Night-Club

24.5 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sphinx Night-Club in Martigny, a premier destination for dancing and socializing with an electrifying atmosphere.

LUX Club

24.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Martigny at LUX Club, where unforgettable parties and world-class DJs unite for an electrifying atmosphere.

Le foyer Bar Restaurant

24.8 km

Experience the flavors of Italy at Le Foyer Bar Restaurant, a cozy retreat in La Thuile offering delicious cuisine and stunning mountain views.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace: Gateway to a Glacial Wonderland

A brief summary to Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Driving

Unlock the Best of Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Statue of Balmat and Saussure

Lac Blanc

Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden

Pavillon du Mont Fréty

French Alps

Rifugio Walter Bonatti

Mont Blanc de Courmayeur

Skyway Monte Bianco

Notre Dame de Guérison sanctuary

Auberge De La Maison

Mont Chétif

Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc

Col Chécruit

Rifugio Maison Vieille

Hall of Courmayeur

Unmissable attractions to see

Mer de Glace

Grotte de glace

Glaciorium

Viaduc de Montenvers

Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix

Circuit le Point de Vue du Col d'Argentière

Cascade du Flanbu

Pierre d'Orthaz

Ravine viewpoint

Point pédestre

Chamonix Amusement Park

La pierre de Lisboli

chemin du pied du grepon

Mont-Blanc Natural Resort

Train à crémaillère chamonix

Essential places to dine

La Cabane Des Praz

L'index Chamonix

Albert 1er Restaurant

Restaurant gastronomique Les Tables de Philippe Chamonix Mont Blanc

Restaurant CASABIANCO

La Fine Bouche

Restaurant Le Fer à Cheval

MUMMA

Restaurant Le Carrousel

La Télécabine

Josephine Restaurant

Le Vista - Restaurant Chamonix

Restaurant Le Cap-Horn

Restaurant Akashon

Le Monchu

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Le Coffre À Bijoux

Concept Pro Shop Chamonix

La Trace

L'Univers du Bonbon

Magasin Rossignol Chamonix

Timberland Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Snowleader Chamonix

Arpin

A la Ville de Venise

Magasin Cocktail Scandinave Chamonix

Odlo Store Chamonix

Fresh Air

High Society CBD Chamonix Mont-Blanc

Le Soyi à Borgate

L'Insoumise

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Restaurant Les Planards

Bar le QuartzBar

Heliopic Bar