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 shop

Don’t forget to visit the Montenvers shop before returning to the valley, where you can buy a souvenir of your excursion to this unique site!

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The Restaurant du Montenvers

LEGENDARY LUNCH FACING THE DRUS In the heart of the mythical Refuge du Montenvers, let yourself be carried away by the authenticity of a high-altitude restaurant. Enjoy lunch on the...

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...

Opening dates : Summer 2025 - 24 may to 2 november

Opening hours From 23/05 to 03/07

Open every day 8:30 am – 5.00 pm

Last ascent : 4.30 pm
Last descent : 5.00 pm

Last departure from Chamonix to visit the ice cave : 3.00 pm

1st departure 8.30am. 9.00am train optional (depending on numbers)
A train every hour or every 30 – or 20 – minutes depending on demand.

NB:
Cable car closed from 11 to 29 May inclusive
Ice cave closed from 11/05 to 5 June inclusive