Montenvers - Mer de Glace Railway - warm sunshine in winter
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Montenvers - Mer de Glace Railway

4.6
·5k reviews·Chamonix, France

Ride a historic cogwheel train to the Mer de Glace, a stunning glacier, and explore its mesmerizing ice cave.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer views, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Montenvers - Mer de Glace Railway - warm sunshine in winter

Montenvers - Mer de Glace Railway

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer views, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride a historic cogwheel train to the Mer de Glace, a stunning glacier, and explore its mesmerizing ice cave.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"The ice cave is truly unforgettable, and the train ride offers out-of-this-world views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Sit on the Left for Views

For the best panoramic views on the Montenvers train, try to secure a seat on the left side. :seat:

Book Montenvers Train Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee your spot by purchasing your Montenvers train tickets in advance online. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mer de Glace Ice Cave

Mer de Glace Ice Cave

Base of the glacier

Explore a mesmerizing ice cave carved anew each year, showcasing ancient blue ice walls.

Montenvers Rack Railway Journey

Montenvers Rack Railway Journey

Chamonix Mont-Blanc Station

Ride a historic cogwheel train through stunning alpine scenery to reach the glacier.

Glacier Museum & Historical Markers

Glacier Museum & Historical Markers

Montenvers station

Witness the dramatic retreat of the Mer de Glace through informative displays and markers.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Montenvers Train Tickets in Advance

Securing your Montenvers train tickets online ahead of time is crucial, especially during peak season. This avoids long queues and guarantees your spot on the scenic rack railway up to the Mer de Glace. Many travelers recommend booking early to save time and potential hassle.

Prepare for the Ice Cave Descent

Accessing the Mer de Glace ice cave involves a cable car ride followed by numerous steps. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the physical exertion. The cave's appearance changes annually, so each visit offers a unique perspective on this ancient ice.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Simplemente mágico 🚂🇨🇭 #travel #traveltiktok #TravelGoals #bucketlist #Wanderlust #trainviews #berninaexpress #swiss #swissalps #viajar
@itsmikecast
543.9K likes • 4.3M views

Sit on the Left for Views

For the best panoramic views on the Montenvers train, try to secure a seat on the left side. :seat: Reddit

Book Montenvers Train Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee your spot by purchasing your Montenvers train tickets in advance online. :ticket: Reddit

Add this to your bucketlist! 🚂 🇨🇭 #glacierexpress #swissalps #switzerland #bucketlisttravel #bucketlist #luxurytravel #traveltips
@thegingerwanderlust
205.4K likes • 3.9M views
Have you been to Switzerland? Here’s a trick you need to know to save hundreds of dollars.🚂 #traveltip #switzerland #travelhack
@princeoftravel
32.1K likes • 744.9K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the ice cave. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Check Ice Cave Status

The ice cave can sometimes be closed due to conditions. Check the official website before your visit. :information_desk: Reddit

⭐️FRONT ROW TIPS ⭐️ when riding the Gelmerbahn! 1. Book tickets in advance and GET THERE EARLY! First ride up is usually at 9am. I got there at 830am to get my physical ticket and I was first in line. 2. It is not operational all year round. They close during winter so check their website for updates. 3. It’s a first come first serve basis, so if you are first in line, you can choose where you ...
@_paradiseseeker_
20.2K likes • 546.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Sit on the Left for Views

For the best panoramic views on the Montenvers train, try to secure a seat on the left side. :seat: Reddit

Book Montenvers Train Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee your spot by purchasing your Montenvers train tickets in advance online. :ticket: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the ice cave. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Check Ice Cave Status

The ice cave can sometimes be closed due to conditions. Check the official website before your visit. :information_desk: Reddit

Bring Layers

Temperatures at the glacier can be cooler than in Chamonix, even in summer. :cloud:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the Mer de Glace and the scenic Montenvers train journey. The ice cave is a major highlight, offering a unique experience with ancient blue ice. However, some find the number of steps to the cave challenging, and prices for food and souvenirs can be high.

"This is a wonderful place to visit! There are two restaurants, a gift shop, and access to the ice cave, which you can reach via a cable car and stairs — and the cave itself is extremely impressive.
Along the way, you’ll see signs showing where the glacier used to be in previous years, and it’s truly eye-opening and sad to witness how much it has shrunk over time. There’s also a small museum about the glacier and several hiking trails that start from here, making it a great spot to spend a few hours exploring.
The Mer de Glace is absolutely breathtaking, and the surrounding area is beautiful, peaceful, and tranquil. You can easily reach this site by train from Chamonix. Highly recommended!"

hila

"Great view of the mountains and glacier valley. Has a couple of restaurants and a gift shop, and free toilets. It was warm during summer.
Get tickets online and scan the QR code to take the train and gondola. Train ride up was smooth and quite enjoyable with nice views."

HauGeng AuYeong

"Great experience to travel up on a lovely train with out if this world views (try and sit on the left for best views).
After 20 minutes of travelling up you reach the top and have a choice of hiking paths. There are 2 places to stop for food and drinks with great views.
The hotel under the tunnel was also set up with a terrace for food and drinks.
The glacier was closed when we travelled but still great to see the views.
It cost us €31 for a return trip."

Amie Langford

What People Like

Spectacular glacier views
Historic train ride
Mesmerizing ice cave

What People Dislike

Many steps to cave
High prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Montenvers - Mer de Glace Railway station is conveniently located in Chamonix Mont-Blanc. You can easily walk there from the Chamonix Sud bus station if you're arriving by bus from Geneva. The train itself departs from the Chamonix Mont-Blanc station. Reddit

Yes, a day trip from Geneva to Mer de Glace is possible. You can take a bus to Chamonix Sud and then walk to the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Station to catch the train. Plan for an early start to maximize your time. Reddit

Many travelers opt for buses from Geneva to Chamonix Sud, which is a cost-effective option. Alternatively, trains are available, though some suggest buses can be cheaper. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available in Chamonix town center, a short walk from the Montenvers train station. Consider parking options before your arrival.

The Montenvers rack railway journey from Chamonix to the Mer de Glace takes approximately 20 minutes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Montenvers train tickets online in advance through the official website or at the ticket counter at the Chamonix Mont-Blanc station. Booking online is highly recommended to avoid queues. Reddit

A round-trip ticket for the Montenvers train typically costs around €31, but prices can vary. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Your Montenvers train ticket usually includes access to the cable car and the steps leading down to the ice cave. However, always confirm what is included with your ticket type. Reddit

Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or families. It's advisable to check the official website for any applicable promotions or family packages. TikTok

Operating hours vary seasonally. The railway typically runs from morning until late afternoon. It's essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule for your planned visit date. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At Mer de Glace, you can explore the impressive ice cave, visit the glacier museum, see markers showing the glacier's historical retreat, and enjoy the stunning mountain views. There are also restaurants and a gift shop. Reddit

From the Montenvers station, you'll take a cable car down towards the glacier. After the cable car, there are a significant number of steps to descend to reach the entrance of the ice cave. Reddit

The descent to the ice cave involves a cable car and many stairs, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. It's important to be prepared for the physical effort. Reddit

While you can get close to the glacier, walking directly on it without proper equipment and a guide is dangerous due to melting ice and moving rocks. Stick to designated paths and viewing areas. Reddit

You'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Mer de Glace glacier, the Drus, and the Grandes Jorasses. The scenery is truly spectacular. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are a couple of restaurants and a hotel with a terrace offering food and drinks with great views at Montenvers. There's also a gift shop. Reddit+1

The restaurants typically offer a range of options, including local Swiss specialties and more standard fare. It's a good place to refuel after exploring. Reddit

While there are dining options, bringing your own snacks and water is always a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a longer time exploring the area. Reddit

There are areas with seating and tables, particularly around the hotel terrace, where you might be able to enjoy a picnic with a view. Reddit

As with most tourist attractions, prices at the restaurants can be on the higher side. Budget accordingly or consider packing some of your own food. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire journey on the Montenvers train offers incredible photo ops. At the top, capture the vastness of the Mer de Glace, the ice cave, and the surrounding peaks. TikTok+1

Yes, the train has windows that can be opened, allowing for clear photos and videos without reflections. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting, especially during the golden hour. However, the dramatic landscape is stunning at any time. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in most areas. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photo restrictions within the ice cave or museum. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive glacier and mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the peaks. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards! :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Montenvers - Mer de Glace Railway offers an exciting adventure for families. The historic cogwheel train ride is a highlight for children, providing stunning views and a sense of wonder. TikTok The ice cave itself is like stepping into a magical world, though be prepared for the many steps down to access it. Reddit Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options can be pricey. The glacier museum also offers educational insights that can engage older children.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love the outdoors, Montenvers is a fantastic starting point for various hiking trails that explore the surrounding alpine landscape. Reddit While walking directly on the glacier is not advised without a guide, the views from the designated paths are spectacular. The historical markers showing the glacier's retreat offer a unique perspective on the natural environment. Remember to wear sturdy hiking boots and check weather conditions before setting off.

📸 Photography Buffs

Montenvers is a photographer's dream, offering epic mountain vistas and the unique textures of the Mer de Glace. TikTok+1 The train journey provides ample opportunities for capturing scenic shots. At the top, focus on the vastness of the glacier, the intricate details of the ice cave, and the dramatic peaks like the Drus and Grandes Jorasses. The changing light throughout the day can create stunning photographic moments, especially during sunrise or sunset. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Montenvers Rack Railway Experience

The Montenvers Rack Railway is more than just transportation; it's an integral part of the Mer de Glace experience. This historic cogwheel train has been ferrying visitors up the steep slopes of Montenvers since 1908. The journey itself is a spectacle, winding through forests and offering increasingly dramatic views of the Chamonix valley and the surrounding peaks. Travelers often describe the ride as smooth and enjoyable, with the anticipation building as you ascend towards the glacier. TikTok+1

Many visitors recommend sitting on the left side of the train for the most unobstructed and breathtaking views of the valley and the Mer de Glace as you climb. Reddit The train is a marvel of engineering, designed to navigate the challenging terrain while providing a comfortable ride. It's a nostalgic and scenic way to reach one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Alps, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring sights that await at the summit. TikTok

Exploring the Mer de Glace Ice Cave

The Mer de Glace ice cave is the star attraction at Montenvers, offering a unique and unforgettable encounter with ancient ice. Carved anew each year from the living glacier, the cave's interior is a dazzling spectacle of blue ice formations. Walking through the tunnels, you'll see walls of ice that are thousands of years old, a humbling reminder of nature's power and the passage of time. Reddit+1

Accessing the cave involves a cable car ride from the Montenvers station, followed by a descent down a significant number of steps. Reddit This can be physically demanding, so comfortable footwear is essential. Inside, informative posters explain the glacier's formation and history, adding an educational layer to the visual wonder. The ever-changing nature of the ice cave means that each visit offers a distinct experience, making it a compelling reason to return. Reddit

Understanding Glacier Retreat at Montenvers

Montenvers serves as a poignant reminder of climate change and its impact on our planet. Along the path to the ice cave, you'll find markers indicating the glacier's historical positions in previous years. Witnessing how dramatically the Mer de Glace has retreated over time is a sobering and eye-opening experience for many visitors. Reddit

The glacier museum at Montenvers provides further context, detailing the science behind glaciers and the factors contributing to their melting. It's a crucial educational component that transforms a scenic visit into a deeper understanding of environmental issues. Seeing the stark difference between past and present glacier extents is a powerful visual that resonates long after the visit. Reddit

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