My wife and I thought it would be interesting to travel over Mont Blanc when going from France to Italy. Is it feasible with luggage? Which would be best, France -> Italy, or Italy -> France? What is the availabilty of transportation at either end?
Thanks
How are you traveling? By car, bus or train perhaps? Don't really see how you can reasonably travel "over" Mont Blanc without a car. That said I've never tried it. I just close my eyes and pretend I'm somewhere else while we traverse the tunnel! I know it's all in my mind but the thought of being under tons of rock...anyway. The tunnel cuts travel time in half and the scenery on both sides is terrific.
You probably are talking about the tunnel. We had to do the roadway "OVER" the St. Bernard Pass. We stopped to visit the Monestary of St. Bernard at the top too. We did it a few years ago while the tunnel was still closed. FYI - You can also ride the lifts and and Gondolas to "visit" Italy. Check out this website....http://edition.cnn.com/2008/TRAVEL/getaways/03/14/mont.blanc/
I'm guessing Randy means taking the series of gondolas from Chamonix to Coeurmayeur. I've dreamed of doing this but weather hasn't cooperated. I have taking the first leg up from Chamonix and backpack sized luggage would have been fine.
If you are talking about the doing the Aguille Du Midi and the Helbronner gondola I have done that before and have a few cautionary remarks. It is a remarkable trip and worth every penny. However, if you plan to make it part of your transportation from one country to another, you will need a back up plan. In September of 2001, Helbronner was only open for one afternoon of the three full days we were there. It closes whenever the weather becomes questionable. I also would think twice before hauling luggage over that route. If the Aguille du Midi is crowded (and it usually is) you are packed in there like sardines. I actually do not enjoy that part of the trip, because I am just over 5 feet and get clausterphobic because I can't see over all the people. The gondolas to Helbronner are small and you are usually required to ride with another couple. (who may resent you trying to stuff luggage into the small gondola) I don't know if there is an "official" policy about luggage, but having done this trip once, I don't think I would try it.
