The Tramway du Mont-Blanc (TMB) is not just a means of transport: it is a true institution and the highest rack railway in France. Connecting the Arve valley to the foothills of the giant of the Alps, this historic railway line offers a timeless journey, at the pace of alpine landscapes and glaciers. Whether you are an experienced hiker, a mountaineer heading for the roof of Europe, or simply a lover of magnificent panoramas, here is everything you need to know to prepare your excursion aboard the famous rack railway of Haute-Savoie.
The route of the Tramway du Mont-Blanc: from Fayet to Nid d’Aigle
The journey aboard the Tramway du Mont-Blanc is a progressive and spectacular ascent that starts at the bottom of the valley to graze the high mountain.
The official departure is from Fayet station (584 m altitude), in the municipality of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. The train first climbs through forests and alpine pastures, serving the center of Saint-Gervais, then the charming village of Colvoisin and the Col de Voza (1,653 m), a very popular spot in winter with skiers from the Les Houches ski area, and in summer with mountain bikers.
The train then continues its climb to the Bellevue station (1,794 m), offering an exceptional 360° panorama of the Fiz massif, the Aravis, and the Chamonix valley.
In the summer season, the train continues its final ascent to the terminus: the Nid d’Aigle, perched at 2,372 meters altitude. At this height, the atmosphere changes radically: you enter the world of high mountain, close to the majestic Bionnassay glacier.
A historic experience at the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif
Inaugurated at the beginning of the 20th century, the TMB line has retained all its old-world charm. One of the features that delights visitors is the names of the carriages. You will board Marie, Jeanne, or Anne, three historic motor cars painted in different colors, named in tribute to the daughters of the company director at the time. Recently, new state-of-the-art carriages (such as Marguerite) have been added to the fleet to ensure optimal comfort while respecting this unique heritage.
The train advances thanks to a rack system that allows it to overcome steep slopes, impossible to climb for a conventional train. Taking the TMB means taking the time to admire the landscape at a peaceful speed, ideal for contemplation and photography.
What to do at the Nid d’Aigle terminus? (Hiking & Mountaineering)
Once arrived at the summer terminus, several options are available depending on your level:
- Contemplation and gourmet break: The Nid d’Aigle refuge welcomes you to have a drink or enjoy a local dish facing the glacier’s séracs.
- Hiking: Many marked trails start from the station. You can, for example, walk back down to Bellevue or the Col de Voza through the alpine pastures.
- Access to the Royal Route: The Nid d’Aigle is the legendary starting point for mountaineers who embark on the ascent of Mont-Blanc via the normal route (via the Tête Rousse refuge, then the Goûter refuge). So don’t be surprised to meet heavily equipped rope teams there!
Warning: We are here in a high mountain environment. Even in the middle of summer, plan warm clothes, good walking shoes, and sunscreen.
Schedules, prices and practical information for your visit
For your outing on the Tramway du Mont-Blanc to be a success, good organization is essential.
Opening periods
The TMB operates in two main periods:
- Summer season (from early June to early October): The train climbs to the terminus of the Nid d’Aigle.
- Winter season (from mid-December to April): The train generally stops at the Bellevue station to allow pedestrians and skiers to join the ski area.
For this year 2026, the tramway opens on June 13th, only up to Bellevue. The new Nid d’Aigle terminus at 2380m will open as soon as conditions allow, probably July 3rd.
Prices and Reservation
Due to its immense success, especially during the months of July and August, it is strongly recommended to book your tickets online in advance. Seats aboard the carriages are limited.
- Family passes are generally offered to save on transport costs.
- The TMB is also accessible with certain passes from the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc (such as the Mont-Blanc MultiPass).
To consult detailed fare tables and book your slot, go directly to the operator’s official website: See prices and schedules 2026
Your frequently asked questions about the TMB (FAQ)
Where to take the Tramway du Mont-Blanc? The main departure is at Fayet station (Saint-Gervais-les-Bains). A second departure is possible directly from the town center of Saint-Gervais.
What is the duration of the journey? It takes about 1h15 to complete the entire route between Fayet station and the Nid d’Aigle terminus.
Are dogs allowed on board? Yes, pets are generally accepted aboard the train (sometimes subject to the purchase of a specific ticket and wearing a muzzle depending on their size).