The Franco-Italian four-thousand-metre peak is one of the Seven Summits of the Alps and the most impressive mountains in Europe. There is no question that a trip there is worthwhile. But which treasures are hidden on and around the legendary giant? We present the best insider tips for a hiking holiday to Mont Blanc.
Even if it is now run electronically, the old cogwheel train on Mont Blanc has retained much of its original charm. With gentle chugging it takes visitors to the King of the Alps. The owner named the wagons after his three daughters: Anne, Jeanne and Marie. The line is also considered the highest railway line in France and the Nid d’Aigle station is the highest station.
This spectacular glass box high above the abyss is something for those with a head for heights. Courage is rewarded with a unique view over the Alps. Are you not so daring? No problem. The mountain station at the Aiguille du Midi offers numerous other terraces and viewing platforms from which you can cast your gaze over the mountains.
Artificially created as early as 1946, the ice grotto in the Mer-de-Grace glacier casts its spell over visitors from all over the world. Sculptures and coloured lights give the ice a shine. The grotto of the Montenvers can be reached. There is also the historic Grand Hotel du Montenvers, where from the restaurant terrace you can enjoy a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains.
The Lac Blanc lies at 2,353 metres above sea level and offers visitors a breathtaking view of the Mont Blanc massif. With its radiant turquoise blue colour, the mountain lake is not only a highlight for photographers. It is also wonderfully suitable as a picnic location in a picturesque setting.
The small mountain hut with bright red shutters is located a little below the Plan de l’Aiguille mountain station. It is an absolute insider tip because the operator is a former confectioner and conjures up delicious desserts. Particularly tasty is the homemade fruit tart.
The mountain zoo without cages is located at 1,500 metres above the village of Les Houches. Mouflons, deer and even llamas graze over 21 hectares. Some marmots have also found their home in Parc Animalier. The most beautiful thing however, is that the animals are not in enclosures but roam freely.
The car-free city centre of Chamonix is perfect for shopping and wandering. Many small shops invite you to browse, and the Saturday market also impresses with its French charm. If you are hungry in between, a detour to Le Matafan is recommended – the lunch menu is relatively inexpensive – or to La Tablée. The latter is also popular with the locals and serves traditional French-Savoyard dishes.
Does the King of the Alps have an irresistible fascination for you too? Then find out more about Eurohike’s three hiking tours around Mont Blanc!
Thanks to detailed travel documents and personal support on site, you can concentrate fully on the beauty of the region.
