The Argentière glacier
Vast ice at the edge of the upper station.
Rémih — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Pmau — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rémih — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rémih — CC BY-SA 4.0
Les Grands Montets is the highest and most demanding ski area in the Chamonix valley, above the village of **Argentière** north of town: a cable car climbing to around 3,300 metres at the edge of the **Argentière glacier**, into a world of ice and rock that serious skiers come to from across Europe for its long descents and legendary off-piste. ⚠ **Important before planning:** the top station building burned down in **2018**, and the area has operated at reduced capacity since while the lift is rebuilt in stages — so access to the old summit may not be available in the season you visit. Check the operator's current status before buying any ticket or planning a full day here. In summer the area is a starting point for walks above Argentière with views over the glacier, and it is far quieter than the crowded Aiguille du Midi. For the expert skier in winter: among the best in the Alps. For the ordinary visitor: the Aiguille du Midi or La Flégère suit better.
Vast ice at the edge of the upper station.
Legendary descents drawing experts from across Europe.
Argentière, 74400 Chamonix
Not at all. Les Grands Montets is expert terrain: long, steep runs, much of it ungroomed, and off-piste here requires a guide and avalanche equipment. For beginners and families in the valley, **Les Houches** or **Le Tour/Balme** are gentler, broader and far more suitable. And do not plan a full day here without first confirming the lift's status after the 2018 fire.
