Mer de Glace Guide
Journey to the Heart of a Glacier: Explore the Mer de Glace Guide
The Mer de Glace, meaning "Sea of Ice," is France's largest glacier, a breathtaking spectacle nestled in the Mont Blanc massif near Chamonix. This majestic river of ice offers an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to witness the raw power and beauty of nature firsthand. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale of the glacier and the stunning alpine scenery surrounding it. The Mer de Glace has been a subject of fascination for centuries. Its formation dates back thousands of years, and its size has fluctuated significantly over time due to climate changes. In the 19th century, it became a popular destination for early mountaineers and explorers, contributing to the development of Chamonix as a renowned alpine resort. Today, the glacier continues to be studied by scientists monitoring its ongoing retreat, a stark reminder of the impact of global warming. A visit to the Mer de Glace offers a variety of activities. The most popular is taking the Montenvers railway, a historic cog railway that climbs steeply to the viewpoint overlooking the glacier. From there, you can descend into the glacier itself via a cable car and a series of steps carved into the ice, leading to an ice cave sculpted each year. You can also visit the Glaciorium, a museum dedicated to glaciers and climate change. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to the Mer de Glace itself, Chamonix offers delicious Savoyard cuisine, featuring hearty dishes like tartiflette (potatoes, bacon, onions, and Reblochon cheese) and fondue.
Transportation
The primary access to the Mer de Glace is via the Montenvers railway from Chamonix. The train station is located near the Chamonix town center. From the Montenvers station, a short gondola ride and then steps lead down to the ice cave.