Opening dates : Winter 2024-2025 -30 november 2024 - 11 may 2025

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 panorama

Contemplate! Smile! Self-indulge! Capture! When you arrive at Montenvers, after 20 minutes of a timeless journey, offering superb views of the Chamonix valley and the Aiguilles Rouges massif, you will...

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 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...

Opening dates : Winter 2024-2025 -30 november 2024 - 11 may 2025

Opening hours

From
24/05/2025 to 04/07/2025

 Open every day from 8.30 to 5.00 pm

 

Last descent

 5.00 pm

Last ascent

4.30 pm

Last departure from Chamonix
to visit the ice cave

3.00 pm

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

Note: from 24 to 30 May inclusive:
Ice cave closed
Cable car open from 9.00am to 9.30am and from 4.00pm to 4.30pm (Exclusively for guides and climbers)