70 ans Aiguille du Midi

70 years of brushing the sky

A Bit of History

Exploration and Mountaineering

  • 18th century : The Alps become a playground for scientific exploration and mountaineering. The Mont Blanc massif quickly draws attention.

  • 1818 : First recorded ascent of the Aiguille du Midi by Antoni Malczewski, accompanied by Chamonix mountain guides.

The Aiguille du Midi soon becomes a key objective for climbers thanks to its gateway to high-altitude terrain.

The Birth of the Cable Car

  • 1909 : The idea is born to build a cable car linking Chamonix to the Aiguille du Midi.

  • 1924–1927 : Construction of a first section up to the Plan de l’Aiguille (2,317 m).

  • 1951–1955 : Construction of the current cable car — a remarkable engineering feat for its time.

At the time of its completion, it became the highest cable car in the world. The official inauguration took place in 1955.

Modern Developments

  • 1991 : Opening of the elevator to the summit terrace, offering a 360° panoramic view.

  • 2013 : Launch of the attraction "Step into the Void", a glass box suspended over the abyss.

  • 2015 : Opening of the Espace Vertical, an exhibition space dedicated to the history of mountaineering and the Mont Blanc massif.

Things to See and Do

Breathtaking Panoramas

  • Panoramic Terraces : Enjoy a 360° view over the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps — including Mont Blanc, the Grandes Jorasses, the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and more.

  • Summit Terrace : Accessible via elevator, this is the highest point of your visit — and the ultimate viewing platform.

"Step into the Void"©

  • A glass box suspended above a 1,000-meter drop.

  • Guaranteed thrills for those who dare — perfect for unforgettable (and vertigo-inducing) photos!

Cultural and Educational Exhibits

  • Espace Vertical : A small museum tracing the history of mountaineering — from the first ascents of Mont Blanc to the legendary Chamonix guides and the building of the cable car.

  • Espace Mont-Blanc : Discover the geology, glaciers, wildlife, and flora of the Mont Blanc massif through interactive displays.

  • Espace Histoire : A retrospective exhibition on the construction of the cable car — complete with views of the impressive machinery that powers it.

  • Hypoxia Zone : Learn about the effects of reduced oxygen at altitude on the human body — an insightful (and sometimes surprising) stop.

Traverse to Pointe Helbronner (Italy)

Panoramic Mont-Blanc Gondola (summer only) : Float across the glaciers of the Vallée Blanche to Pointe Helbronner on the Italian side. A spectacular aerial journey above crevasses and iconic peaks.

Relaxation & Local Flavors

  • Le 3842 Restaurant : One of the highest restaurants in Europe. Enjoy Savoyard cuisine with a stunning mountain backdrop.

  • Cafeteria & Gift Shop : Perfect for a quick bite, a souvenir, or a postcard to remember your adventure.

70th Anniversary Celebrations

To celebrate this iconic milestone, discover a one-of-a-kind photo exhibition featuring rare and collectible images that retrace the rich history of the Aiguille du Midi.

On the forecourt, don’t miss the beautifully restored vintage cable car — a powerful symbol of the first ascents to the high Alps.

A historical journey not to be missed !

70 ans Aiguille du Midi

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The areas and excursion sites of the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley, Les Houches - Saint-Gervais and Megève, all on the same territory. A unique playground and experience

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