Is there a more emblematic summit than Mont Blanc? From the top of its 4,809 m, the mountain known as the Roof of Europe watches over the Alps and fascinates young and old alike. But you don't need to be an experienced mountaineer to enjoy it. Discover our ideas for walks, viewpoints and visits... accessible without wearing crampons!
Hush! Black grouse in hibernation
It is the highest nature reserve in France and the only protected area in the Mont Blanc massif. Rising from an altitude of 1,000 to 4,000 metres, the Contamines-Montjoie Nature Reserve offers all kinds of landscapes, from forests to glaciers, as well as a great diversity of species. Among them, the black grouse, an Alpine bird well represented in Contamines-Montjoie and which lets itself be buried in snow igloos to rest during the winter. To walk around without risking disturbing the rest of the local bird, follow the signs indicating the areas to be avoided.
On the balcony of Mont Blanc
Proud and imposing, Mont Blanc is everywhere! It is therefore not uncommon to see it appear at the bend in the road, in Chamonix, Megève or Cordon. Less well known, this small mountain village, nicknamed the "balcony of Mont Blanc", offers a panoramic view of the highest peak in Europe and the Aravis mountain range. An opportunity to take a walk in this authentic village, between fields, traditional chalets and crafts.
Mont Blanc from the sky
What if we took a step up and tried to touch this white giant? Nothing could be easier in Praz-sur-Arly, the mountain capital of hot-air ballooning! From its permanent take-off base, flights are offered throughout the year to discover the highest massifs of the Alps. The resort also hosts the annual Montgolfiades, an international hot air balloon meeting, in January. An event not to be missed.
Gourmet break
Has this great breath of fresh air made you hungry? Head for Sallanches and the Saint-Âgone biscuit factory. Organic, local, without additives or chemical colourings, these sweet and savoury biscuits have everything to please. Let yourself be tempted by the local specialities with the "écus de Savoie" with abundance and tomme cheese or the "Croquant'Y Cimes" with tartiflette. At snack time, gourmets will fall for the organic chocolate chip or hazelnut cookies. And for beer lovers, a stop at the brewery Le Blaireau qui brasse, in Passy, which offers four beers brewed by hand with water from the Massif des Fiz, is a must.
Read more : Savoie Mont Blanc
By Constance Dive
Head of section for France.fr
