Christophe Jacquet (ChrisJ)
Tramway du Mont-Blanc
Ride France’s highest cog railway to 2,372 m for sweeping alpine views and access to hiking trails on Mont Blanc’s dramatic slopes.
Featured Video
Tramway du mont-Blanc - Gare Le Fayet au nid d'aigle
Alpes - Saint-Gervais-les-Bains - Mont-Blanc Tramway du mont-Blanc - Gare Le Fayet au nid d'aigle
About This Destination
A Mont-Blanc Tramway railcar climbing toward Bellevue, offering panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif in Haute-Savoieen.wikipedia.org
Opened in 1907, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is a narrow-gauge rack railway that climbs from Le Fayet (580 m) to the high alpine terminus at Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest, 2,372 m). This dramatic route on the slopes of Mont Blanc was envisioned as a feat of engineering to reach the glaciers; it remains the highest railway in France (fourth-highest in Europe) and one of only two French railways above 2,000 m. The line was originally intended to continue to the Aiguille du Goûter (~3,800 m), but World War I halted construction in 1914, leaving Nid d’Aigle as the final stopmountainpassions.com. Even so, building this 12.4 km line was a heroic achievement – it overcomes 1,792 m of elevation gain via grades up to 24% using a Strub cogwheel system, all while clinging to steep mountainsides and traversing forests, alpine meadows, and moraine fields below the Bionnassay Glacier.
For rail enthusiasts, the TMB offers living history and unique technology. The railway was steam-powered until 1956, when it was electrified and three vintage electric railcars (“Anne,” “Marie” and “Jeanne”) took over. Remarkably, one of the original early-1900s steam locomotives is preserved on display at Le Fayet station. In 2023, service was modernized with four new Stadler-built panoramic trains (named Anne, Marie, Jeanne, and Marguerite) that retain the heritage character and honor the founder’s familyen.chamonix.com. The operation is managed by the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc (which also runs Chamonix’s Montenvers Railway) and continues to delight passengers with its nostalgic charm. From the antique depot and workshops at the base to the open-air summit station above the treeline, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is both a journey into Alpine history and a testament to mountain railway engineering.
Location
Why Visit
A ride on the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is unforgettable for nature lovers, photographers, and railfans alike. It’s a chance to effortlessly ascend into the high Alps and enjoy sweeping views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks. At the top, you stand at the foot of a glacier with France’s tallest mountain in full view – an experience normally reserved for mountaineers. The tramway’s unique mountain infrastructure is itself a draw: you’ll travel on a quaint cogwheel train up impossibly steep grades, passing through tunnels and over bridges, all using century-old alignments and technology. The line’s engineering significance (highest rack railway in France, with two stations over 2,000 m) and its well-preserved heritage rolling stock make it a pilgrimage for railway enthusiasts.
Beyond the technical marvels, the TMB offers rich historical atmosphere and local culture. The vintage-style railcars, painted in colorful livery and bearing traditional names, recall the golden age of alpine exploration. At stations like Col de Voza and Bellevue, you can sense the nostalgia of early 20th-century travelers who first accessed these vistas by tram. In summer, the journey attracts sightseers of all ages – from families seeking a safe alpine adventure to seasoned hikers using the train as a starting point for trails. In winter, the tramway transforms into a charming ski lift, ferrying skiers up to the Les Houches slopes amid snow-blanketed forests. Whether you’re drawn by the scenic splendor, the historic charm of France’s highest cog railway, or the thrill of reaching Mont Blanc’s doorstep, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is a must-visit alpine experience.
What to Expect
The green “Anne” train approaching the Nid d’Aigle terminus (2,372 m), where mountaineers begin their ascent of Mont Blanc’s Goûter route.
Route & Scenery: The TMB journey begins at Le Fayet (Saint-Gervais) and immediately starts climbing through pine forests, aided by the rack rail. After a brief stop at Saint-Gervais station (820 m), the train tackles increasingly steep slopes – soon the valley falls away, revealing stunning glimpses of villages and pastures far below. As you ascend past Col de Voza (1,653 m), the landscape opens up to alpine meadows and you’ll catch your first full views of Mont Blanc’s summit and the Bionnassay Glacier, weather permitting. The train pauses at Bellevue (1,794 m), a plateau aptly named for its beautiful panorama. From there, the line winds above the treeline into a rocky high-mountain environment. In summer, the upper section leads to Mont Lachat (2,115 m) and finally Nid d’Aigle (2,372 m) – a barren, windswept terminus nestled under the glacier. At the top, there is no village – just a small station area, a mountain refuge nearby, and trailheads disappearing into the peaks. (Due to ongoing 2024/25 renovations, regular tourists currently disembark at Mont Lachat, with the last stretch to Nid d’Aigle reserved for authorized climbersen.chamonix.com.) Expect a 1¼ hour ride each way (about 50 minutes up to Bellevue, and ~75 minutes to the end of the line) – a slow, steady climb that allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery.
Trains & Experience: The tramway runs charming 2-car electric trains with large windows and wood-accented interiors. The new cars are modern and comfortable yet styled after the 1950s units, retaining a vintage feel. As the train ascends at ~15 km/h, you’ll hear the cogwheel clicking rhythmically on the rack during steep sections – an audible reminder of the line’s unique technology. There are six intermediate stops en route, and you can arrange stop-offs (for example, to hike from Bellevue or visit the café at Col de Voza) and catch a later train down. The views change with altitude: early on you peer through fir trees, later you traverse open hillsides with cows grazing, and finally you enter a rocky realm above the clouds. On clear days, the panorama at the top is breathtaking – Mont Blanc and surrounding spires appear incredibly close. Do note that weather can be volatile; in fog or clouds the visibility may be limited, but even then the dramatic terrain (and perhaps the sight of mountaineers heading off with ropes and ice axes) makes the trip worthwhile.
Crowds & Atmosphere: In peak summer (July–August), the TMB is very popular – trains often sell out and can be packed. Each train has about 130 seats, but at busy times some riders will stand in the aisletramwaydumontblanc.montblancnaturalresort.com. Despite the crowd, the atmosphere is generally excited and convivial, with tourists, hikers, and climbers all sharing the journey. You’ll hear a mix of languages and see everything from families with children to seasoned alpinists with backpacks. For a quieter experience, consider the first train of the morning (7 AM) or later afternoon departures, which tend to be less crowded. Photographers often favor morning light for east-facing views of Mont Blanc, whereas late-day trips can offer golden light on the peaks. Photo opportunities abound – popular spots include Bellevue (where you can capture the train against a backdrop of the glacier) and near Nid d’Aigle (with dramatic close-ups of the rugged summit environs). Overall, expect a leisurely excursion – most visitors spend 3–4 hours for the round trip and sightseeing, and longer if hiking. The pace is unhurried: the train stops a few minutes at key stations, and at the terminus you typically have time to walk around, take in the view, and snap photos before your return ride. In sum, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc delivers a memorable, multi-sensory journey – from the creak of the old-fashioned train climbing the rack to the sight of Europe’s highest mountains towering above – truly a highlight of any Alpine itinerary.
Travel Information
By Air
The nearest major airport is Geneva Airport (GVA), about 86 km away. Driving from GVA to Le Fayet takes roughly 1–1.5 hours via the A40 “Autoroute Blanche.” Shuttle buses and private transfers are also available from Geneva Airport to Saint-Gervais (approximately 1 hour travel time). Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport is another option (~2.5 hours’ drive).
By Car
From France, follow A40/E25 toward Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and take Exit 21 for Saint-Gervais/Le Fayet. The address is Avenue de la Gare, Le Fayet 74170. Free and pay parking is in the vicinity, but as noted, plan ahead for space or use overflow lots. Once in Saint-Gervais or Le Fayet, the tramway station is clearly signposted (“Tramway du Mont-Blanc”).
Lodging
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is a spa town known for its thermal baths and Mont Blanc views, offering plenty of accommodation – from hotels and chalets to B&Bssaintgervais.com. Staying here or in Les Houches (just up the valley) gives easy access to the tram. The larger resort town of Chamonix is about 30 minutes away by car or 1 hour by Mont-Blanc Express train, and also makes a good base (though note you’d have to travel to Le Fayet for the tram ride). In Saint-Gervais, you can enjoy the Thermes de Saint-Gervais spa after your tramway excursion – perfect for relaxing in hot pools and saunas with mountain scenery. Dining options in town range from casual crêperies to traditional Savoyard restaurants; at Le Fayet base station there is a small café for drinks and snacks, and a restaurant (Bistrot de la Gare) at the Saint-Gervais station.
Nearby Attractions
Ride the historic red Montenvers cog railway from Chamonix to 1,913 m, then descend into the famous Mer de Glace glacier. Discover the ice cave, Glaciorium museum and panoramic mountain views—a timeless alpine experience complementing the Tramway.
In just 20 minutes, the Aiguille du Midi cable car ascends from Chamonix (1,035 m) to 3,842 m, offering unparalleled 360° views of Mont Blanc, surrounding Alps and access to the “Step into the Void” platform, a must‑visit iconic high‑mountain experience.
Unwind in natural thermal baths fed by Mont Blanc spring water in Saint‑Gervais, 10 minutes from the tramway. Spa facilities include pools, saunas and mountain‑view terraces—ideal for relaxation after alpine adventures.
Photo Gallery
TMB's "Marie" EMU at Le Nid d'Aigle
Photo by: Christophe Jacquet (ChrisJ)
TMB's "Marie" EMU at Le Nid d'Aigle
Photo by: Christophe Jacquet (ChrisJ)
Quick Information
Location
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
City
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains
Address
2 Imp. des 2 Gares, 74190 Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France
Best Season to Visit
Summer (July–August) – This peak summer period offers the best weather for clear mountain views and full access to the summit station (Nid d’Aigle) en.chamonix.com . Late June and early September are slightly quieter alternatives, though weather can be more variable. (Winter visits are limited to Bellevue and provide a unique snowy landscape, but lack the high-altitude views.)