The Aiguille du Midi is a famous summit within the Mont-Blanc massif that attracts thousands of tourists each year to the Chamonix valley. Standing at 3,842 m, the Aiguille du Midi is situated directly across from highest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc (4,808 m). The Aiguille du midi translates to ‘Needle of Mid-Day’ in English. This is due to the fact that the sun passes over the peak at noon when looking up from the Chamonix church.
Téléphérique de l’Aiguille du Midi
This beautiful mountain peak is accessible by a two-section, 20 minute cable car journey that goes from the Chamonix valley floor (1 035 m) to the Plan de l’Aiguille (mid station – 2,317 m) and then to the top station (3 777 m). From here, the summit is reached by an elevator built within the rock. The summit terrace offers breathe-taking views and the perfect opportunity to marvel at the surrounding mountain peaks that form part of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps.
Step into the Void & The Vallée Blanche
Whilst up there you can ‘Step into the Void’ (not for the faint hearted!) which involves stepping into a 2.5 metre glass box that overhangs onto stunning seracs and a 1000 m drop. Built in 2013, ‘Step into the Void’ has become a real hit with visitors seeking a thrill. There is also the Espace Vertical which holds the title of the highest museum in the world (3 777 m above sea level). This museum displays various climbing and mountaineering memorabilia along with information regarding how the Aiguille du Midi was built. Various photo galleries can also be found in the Aiguille du Midi which hold tribute to various mountaineers.
During the winter, the Aiguille du Midi is the gateway to the Vallée Blanche, a world-famous 20km off-piste route which crosses crevassed glaciated terrain including the Mer de Glace.
Aiguille du Midi – Worth it?
Absolutely!
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