Bionnassay and the glacier
©Hugo Guillerez

Mountaineering in Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc Our mountain climbs

Saint-Gervais is one of the mountaineering destinations not to be missed for climbing Mont-Blanc and many other peaks. Nestled at the foot of the roof of Europe, the commune is home to one of the 3 access routes to the highest peak in the Alps.
 

Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc, land of mountaineering

Nested in the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif, the commune of Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc is a land of mountaineering. Partly known for its gigantic ski area and thermal waters, high-mountain climbing is also part of the resort’s DNA. Novices looking for their first experience as well as seasoned mountaineers will love it here, and can find climbs to suit their abilities.

For mountaineering on Mont-Blanc and around Saint-Gervais, La Compagnie des Guides is the place to turn. With its 85 guides and leaders, this institution, proud of over 150 years’ experience, takes those who wish to discover numerous mountain ascents to do on their own or in a group.

 Before the Verte, you are a mountaineer, at the Verte, you become a Montagnard 

Gaston Rébuffat

Aiguille de Bionnassay ascent a peak perched at 4052 metres

A mountain climb of moderate difficulty, the Aiguille de Bionnassay is a classic for fans of spindly ridges and an excellent warm-up before tackling the Alps’ most iconic mountaineering races or every mountaineer’s dream: the ascent of Mont-Blanc.

With its 3 ridges, the ascents on this mountain are diverse and varied, leaving it up to the guide who accompanies you to choose a route according to your physical fitness, your level and the conditions.

A wilderness route still relatively uncrowded, the ascent of the Aiguille de Bionnassay is the promise of an intense alpine climb to be completed over 2 days.

Epic mountain climbs

Saint-Gervais is the gateway to many exceptional “4000” climbs. Among them, two historic routes stand out: the Aiguille de Bionnassay, offering a unique alpine experience, and the iconic Mont-Blanc, a legendary peak crowning the heavens. These alpine challenges attract mountaineering enthusiasts from all over the world, offering routes that combine natural beauty and daring adventure. The breathtaking scenery and mountain heritage of Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc create the ideal backdrop for these unforgettable explorations, inviting climbers to push their limits and conquer these majestic peaks.
 

Ascent of Mont-Blanc conquer Europe's highest peak

An unmissable summit, it’s the one every mountaineer dreams of climbing at least once in their life. With its highest point at 4,808 meters, Mont-Blanc is synonymous with surpassing oneself and freedom.

A mountain climb accessible to “everyone “, the ascent of Mont-Blanc remains a demanding human adventure. Acclimatization and good physical preparation are necessary before embarking on this mountaineering race.

Saint-Gervais, the commune in which Mont-Blanc is located, is, along with the 3-mount route to Chamonix and the Italian route to Courmayeur, the main gateway to the ascent. Known as the “Voie normale”, the high-altitude hike from the resort is the most classic route. But it’s not necessarily the easiest. Rock falls, exposed passages, lack of oxygen, cold… For obvious safety reasons, it’s advisable to be accompanied by a mountain guide, especially if you’re a beginner.

Your most frequently asked questions

Can children climb mountains?

At Saint-Gervais, discovery activities start at age 6. However, high-altitude activities such as mountaineering are not recommended for children under 15. We invite you to contact the Compagnie des Guides directly on 04 50 47 76 55 for further information.

What is the minimum age required to climb Mont-Blanc?

Mont Blanc can be climbed from the age of 16 if the teenager is sufficiently trained and motivated.

How long does it take to climb Mont Blanc?

By choosing the royal route from Saint-Gervais, the ascent of Mont-Blanc takes 3 days (excluding preparation).

Do you need to be in good physical condition to practice mountaineering?

High-altitude climbing requires endurance and good cardio. A minimum level of physical fitness is therefore necessary before practicing high-altitude mountaineering.

Practicing mountaineering in Saint-Gervais

A high-mountain outdoor sport, mountaineering is a sport discipline in its own right. During your stay in Saint-Gervais, and to be able to discover this winter sport in the best conditions while making the most of this experience, the advice and intervention of a guide remains strongly recommended.

Want to discover mountaineering by making your first mountain ascent? We invite you to get in touch with one of the resort’s guides, so that you can benefit from appropriate supervision and be able to evolve in a safe environment.

More mountain climbs to discover

The Mont-Blanc massif is packed with peaks and just as many mountain climbs to enjoy from Saint-Gervais. The resort’s guides and guides from La Compagnie des Guides will be delighted to accompany you and take you on their discoveries.


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