The Mont Blanc Tramway, an unusual experience!

The latter is none other than the Tramway du Mont-Blanc, anchored to the highest railway line in France. In summer, this train takes you up to the Nid d'Aigle, at an altitude of 2,372 metres. In winter, however, you can stop at Bellevue, nestling at an altitude of 1,794 metres. Throughout the journey, you'll have the pleasure of admiring the changing landscapes, from valleys to mountains, from greenery to cooler summits. So if you want to try this unforgettable experience, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is waiting for you.

The Tramway du Mont-Blanc is one of the must-see attractions in Haute-Savoie. The highest railway in France, this cogwheel train also serves as the starting point for the Mont-Blanc hike, as well as other trails that are particularly popular with mountaineers. Every day, hundreds of enthusiasts use this unusual train, which is particularly steep and, it has to be said, impressive.

Its track is 12.5 km long, and it rises to an altitude of 2,372 metres at its Nid d'Aigle terminus. Le Fayet station, its point of departure, is at an altitude of 580 metres. With a difference in altitude of 1,792 metres, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc makes a unique ascent, pulled by the cogwheel chain that you will feel and hear stretching beneath your feet.

As early as 1835, numerous attempts were made to get closer to Mont Blanc. Ideas were formulated and plans drawn up, but it wasn't until 1904 that any real progress was made. The Compagnie du Tramway du Mont-Blanc signed an agreement with the Département, and the railway was finally built.

The first work began in 1906. The first section, as far as the Col de Voza, was completed in 1909. Two steam trains were then able to run, while the public could enjoy two journeys a day. Although the original idea was to link this railway line to the summit of Mont Blanc, this idea was abandoned during the Second World War. An electric version of the tramway was introduced in 1957, and a number of renovation projects have been carried out frequently since 2012.

Today, three railcars called "Marie", "Anne" and "Jeanne" run on this track. Each is capable of carrying 200 people, including 120 seats.

If you want to take the Tramway du Mont-Blanc, there are several stops along the way. The first is at Le Fayet station, the point of departure. This is in the commune of Saint Gervais - Le Fayet.

The second stop is at Saint-Gervais station, a short distance from the first, in the commune of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. The cogwheel train then continues on to Motivon, at an altitude of 1,368 metres. At this point, you'll be able to see the snow-covered mountain passes, and guess just how high the train rises.

Continuing its journey, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc stops at the Col de Voza, at an altitude of 1,635 metres. A number of hiking trails start from this summit, if you want to enjoy the scenery without climbing too high towards Mont-Blanc. The cog railway then passes over the summit of Bellevue, at an altitude of 1,794 metres. Many visitors stop to photograph the scenery, as a result of the beautiful view that spreads out before you.

The terminus of the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is the Nid d'Aigle, which rises to an altitude of 2,372 metres. If you want to climb Mont-Blanc, you'll have to start your journey from this summit. If you simply want to enjoy the view, the Nid d'Aigle refuge is the place to go for a fondue, or to spend the night. However, this last stop is only accessible during the summer months, as the snow is far too heavy in winter.

The entire tramway journey, from the departure station to the terminus, takes 1 hour 15 minutes. While the climb can be impressive, this Tramway journey is first and foremost a journey through the mountains, with breathtaking scenery.