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Panoramic Mont Blanc (Helbronner) summer schedule

Hello,

Was wondering if someone could clarify this...
The Rick Steves France 2017 book says, the panoramic gondola from Aiguille Du Midi to Helbronner, Italy, opens in late june. However the schedule on the Chamonix website suggests it starts from May 25th. It just starts to run an hour earlier from June 16th. Am I reading the right link/interpretting it correct?

http://www.chamonix.com/aiguille-du-midi-timetables-and-rates,180,en.html

Any clarifications regarding this would be highly appreciated.

Thanks!

Posted by
32171 posts

The schedule would seem to indicate that the Panoramic trip begins operation on May 25th. However, note the caution which states "We remind you that these dates and schedules are given as a rough guide and may be modified according to operational constraints and weather conditions."

One other important point to mention is that the Aguille du Midi is at an elevation of 12,605 feet / 3842 metres. If you have any altitude issues, be sure to keep that in mind. You may have to cut your visit short and head back down to Chamonix very quickly if you start to have problems.

Posted by
5187 posts

Vishal,

Take heed to Ken's advice:

One other important point to mention is that the Aguille du Midi is at an elevation of 12,605 feet / 3842 metres. If you have any altitude issues, be sure to keep that in mind. You may have to cut your visit short and head back down to Chamonix very quickly if you start to have problems.

When my daughter and I went up to the Aiguille du Midi, I started experiencing a headache after about 30-40 minutes, so knew I had to reach a lower elevation before my symptoms worsened.

Enjoy your time in Chamonix!

Posted by
258 posts

This link:
http://www.chamonix.com/lifts,88,en.html provides real-time updates (scroll down for the drop down boxes and choose Tramway du Mont Blanc).

It might be better than the general timetable. You can always call and ask if the plan to re-open on Thursday still is current (+33 (0)4 50 53 99 98). Chances are you'll get someone who can speak English. You can also email them using booking@chamonix.com.

The weather is stable this week (no precip and light winds), so it's probably good for opening on Thursday the 25th.

Posted by
73 posts

Thanks for your advice. Thanks Ken, Priscilla for highlighting the altitude issue that we need to be aware of. I will certainly be paying attention to it.

Posted by
32171 posts

Vishal,

It will be quite apparent if you're having issues with the altitude. Once you're aware of that, don't wait too long to get on the cable car going down to Chamonix. If necessary ask a staff member for assistance. Whether or not you have problems will likely depend on how long you remain at high altitude.

Bonne Chance!