I'm trying to figure out the best (most economical) way to experience this lift in the Alps. I will be coming from Paris Friday afternoon on the train probably using a 3 day France Eurail pass. I would like to spend one night in Chamonix, ride the lift up the next morning, and then end up in Florence, Italy Sunday early evening at the latest. I read Rick's suggestion on how to do this but I'm still a little confused about how to get down into Italy after riding the lift up. Is there anyone who has done this or knows the transportation details? Thanks for your help!
Posted by
Tilburg, Netherlands
2829 posts
Depending on month/season, you can ride over the Mt. Blanc glacier with a sequence of 6/7 lifts/closed gondolas/cable cars all the way from Chamonix to Comaryeur.
Posted by
white plains, ny, usa
4161 posts
Melissa , as Andre points out , the month of travel can have a major impact . We were in Chamonix in late sept. last year and service on the Aiguillle du Midi lift was spotty due to weather . The weather in a mountain environment is generally like that . As Mark Twain put it " If you don't like the weather in New England , jist wait 10 minutes " . As such , with a tight schedule as you propose , I think it would be impractical to count on making the neccessary connections to make this trip in this way . It would be wise to consider a backup plan as well . For example you could train from Chamonix to Martigny , Switzerland . From there you could piece together a fairly straightforward route to Florence via Milan . In any event you might want to consider cutting yourself a bit more time , this seems a bit rushed. Happy travels !!
Posted by
OP
Boise, ID, United States
158 posts
Thank you. That's good to know about the closures. I will also be there the last weekend of September. Unfortunately I can't give it anymore time because I end French classes on Friday and begin Italian classes on Monday. A back-up plan sounds like a good idea.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
You cannot take the lift into Italy beyond mid-September. You can take the bus from Chamonix through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Aosta - and on to Milan if you wish. See the official Chamonix site for details.