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If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know how much we love trains. The Mont Blanc Tramway (TMB) holds a special place in our hearts. Ascending to the heavens, it offers a unique rail adventure in the heart of the Mont Blanc massif. It’s the highest rack railway in France, after all.
⚠️ Please note, the line may undergo renovations and be temporarily closed. Be sure to check this page for updates.
This timeless journey can start either at the SNCF station in Le Fayet, situated at 580 meters above sea level, or at the village of Saint-Gervais, located at 820 meters, to reach the Nid d’Aigle, a heavenly gateway opening onto the royal road of Mont Blanc at 2380 meters.
Passengers are invited to board vintage carriages, bearing names that echo the history of France, such as Anne, Jeanne, and Marie. Each stage of the journey unveils spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains, making this rail experience popular not only among tourists, but also climbers and hikers. No wonder, as stops along the way serve as starting points for numerous mountain trails and also provide access to the Eagle’s Nest Refuge, near the railway’s end point.
🛤️ Not far from here. If you love breathtaking scenery, head north-west into Switzerland to discover the town of Interlaken. Here’s our guide.
A maximum gradient of 24%
And it’s a climb! The 12.4-kilometer line, linking Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet to the Nid d’Aigle, overcomes a height difference of 1792 meters thanks to a Strub rack system. With a maximum gradient of 24%, most of the journey is equipped with rack rails. The electrification of the line ensures a smooth ascent through steep terrain, promising an adventure that’s both thrilling and serene.
This one-hour journey from Fayet to Bellevue is operated by the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, offering four or five trips per day. Travellers can also continue their exploration beyond the railway terminus, where alpine refuges await them for an extended adventure on the roof of Europe.
👉 Did you know? The Mont Blanc Tramway was featured in the film “Malabar Princess” (2003) by Gilles Legrand. This adds a touch of glamour to your journey.
The unique experience offered by the Mont Blanc Tramway is more than just a train ride; it’s an invitation to embrace Alpine majesty, breathe the pure mountain air, and take away unforgettable memories of the harmony between human engineering and natural splendour. Yes, quite simply.