The Grandes Jorasses from Montenvers: an exceptional Alpine panorama
One of the most iconic peaks in the Mont-Blanc massif, Les Grandes Jorasses stands out for its imposing appearance and legendary history. From the Montenvers viewpoint, accessible by Chamonix’s famous cog railway, this granite giant is revealed in all its majesty, offering visitors a breathtaking natural spectacle.
A legendary peak in the Mont Blanc massif
Rising to 4,208 metres, Les Grandes Jorasses mark the border between France and Italy in the Graie Alps. Their 1,200-metre-high, almost kilometre-wide north face is one of the three great north faces of the Alps, alongside the Eiger and Matterhorn.
This vertical wall overlooks the Leschaux glacier, visible from Montenvers, and attracts climbers from all over the world.
The main summit, Pointe Walker, was first climbed in 1868 by Horace Walker and his guides. Other secondary summits, such as Pointe Whymper, Pointe Croz and Pointe Hélène, bear the names of mountaineering pioneers and historical figures.
Spectacular views from Montenvers
The Montenvers train, which links Chamonix to the Mer de Glace, is a must for mountain lovers. At an altitude of 1,913 metres, the Montenvers station offers an exceptional panoramic view of Les Grandes Jorasses, including its austere and impressive north face.
On a clear day, visitors can admire the details of this granite wall, the hanging seracs and fracture lines that bear witness to the power of the elements. It’s also a popular spot for photographers, who come to capture the low-angled light of the morning or the golden hues of the sunset over the summits.
A place steeped in history and Alpine challenges
Les Grandes Jorasses is the setting for many legendary climbs. The Linceul route, opened in 1968 by René Desmaison and Robert Flematti, is one of the most famous, with its 55° suspended slope.
The Spur Walker route, opened in 1938, is another classic route leading directly to the main summit.
These technical and challenging routes make the Grandes Jorasses a summit reserved for experienced mountaineers. But for visitors to Montenvers, contemplation alone is enough to feel the grandeur and rugged beauty of this natural monument.
Why admire the Grandes Jorasses from Montenvers?
- Accessibility: a breathtaking panorama made effortless by the Montenvers train.
- Photogenic: spectacular views of one of the largest north faces in the Alps.
- History: a summit steeped in tales of mountaineering and legendary conquests.
- Emotion: an immersion in the vertical universe of the Mont-Blanc massif.
Au dernier plan, les Grandes Jorasses (coll. L. Moreau)
En 2023, Les Grands Jorasses face au changement climatique (cl. L. Moreau)
