Opening dates : Summer 2025 - 24 may to 2 november

The Mer de Glace : a giant

Located on the northern slope of the Mont-Blanc massif, the Mer de Glace is the largest glacier in France. 
Almost 7 kilometres long and covering an area of about 40 km², it extends from an altitude of 3,900 metres to about 1,500 metres. Its thickness, once impressive, still reaches several hundred meters in places.

The Mer de Glace is a glacier in perpetual motion. Fed by the eternal snows of the surrounding peaks, it advances slowly, at an average speed of 70 meters per year at its center. However, like many Alpine glaciers, it is now suffering the effects of global warming, leading to a significant decline in its mass and extent.

Other activities

The Temple of Nature

In 1779, Lord Blair, an English gentleman, finds himself caught in a storm in the Montenvers. The shelter under the stone was so uncomfortable that he had a hut built...

The Glaciorium

An interpretation centre to answer all the questions that visitors ask themselves when they are faced with a glacier such as the Mer de Glace. The Glaciorium also responds to...

The bar des glaciers

Would you like to cool off after a descent of the Vallée Blanche or regain your strength after a long hike?The Bar des Glaciers is a must-see break before heading...

Opening dates : Summer 2025 - 24 may to 2 november

Opening hours From 22/11 to 13/03

Open every day 10 am – 4.30 pm

Last descent : 4.30 pm

Last ascent :4.00 pm

Last departure from Chamonix to visit the ice cave : 2.30 pm

A train every hour or every 30 – or 20 – minutes depending on demand.