Opening dates : Summer 2026 - 01 june to 01 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 Panoramic

A moment suspended in front of the Mer de Glace The restaurant Le Panoramique offers a unique experience in the heart of the mountains, with its vast panoramic terrace and...

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 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...

Opening dates : Summer 2026 - 01 june to 01 november

In May and June, take advantage of our great deals

30% off on your return ticket and the ice cave excursion on selected Mondays and Wednesdays in June

Opening hours From 23/05 to 03/07

THE CABLE CAR WILL BE EXCEPTIONALLY CLOSE ON 2 AND 3 JUNE

(Alpinists only : Ascent 9.00 am and descent 4.00 pm)

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:
Ice cave closed from 11/05 to 5 June inclusive