Les Grands Montets (Argentière): legendary Chamonix domain, reopening December 2026

1235m to 2800m: terrain for experts

Les Grands Montets domain stretches between 1235m (Argentière) and 2800m (summit of the Les Grands Montets cable car). It offers one of Europe’s greatest skiable vertical drops, comparable to Pic Blanc at Alpe d’Huez or Klein Matterhorn at Zermatt.

The slopes of the domain rank among France’s most demanding:

The north face of Les Grands Montets, a descent dominated by ice and scree, one of the most exacting runs accessible from a public lift.

The Lognan combes, more accessible but already technical.

The Argentière glacier in the background, territory of adjacent high mountain terrain.

The 2018 fire: disaster and reconstruction

In September 2018, the upper station of the Les Grands Montets cable car, at 3300m, was destroyed by a major fire. A severe blow to the Chamonix resort, which lost its access to the domain’s historic summit.

This was followed by an extensive reconstruction project:

Dismantling of damaged structures, securing the site.

A new complete development scheme for the domain, reconsidering the lifts, arrival station and high-altitude facilities.

Management entrusted to Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, operator of all valley lifts, in partnership with the municipalities of Argentière and Chamonix.

Major reopening is scheduled for December 2026, after more than eight years of waiting. The new facility promises improved comfort and increased capacity, whilst preserving the character of the domain.

Who it is designed for

Les Grands Montets remains the preserve of expert skiers and freeriders. Green and blue runs are rare, the terrain is broadly graded red-black with numerous off-piste passages that blend with marked routes.

This is not a family domain: for families, the neighbouring Les Houches (with their famous green run “Verte des Houches” used in World Cup competition) or the Brévent-Flégère sector are better suited.

For intermediate visitors wishing to discover Argentière, the area remains accessible via gentler runs in the lower part of the domain, though the signature slopes demand a solid level.

Mont-Blanc Unlimited pass

To ski Les Grands Montets, the pass of choice is Mont-Blanc Unlimited, which grants access to all domains in the Chamonix valley:

Les Grands Montets (upon reopening).

Brévent-Flégère, facing Mont-Blanc.

Balme (Le Tour-Vallorcine), on the Swiss border.

Les Houches.

Aiguille du Midi access (cable car without skiing).

Plus Vallée Blanche crossing as an option (with guide).

Argentière: the village below

The village of Argentière, at 1235m, is the direct access station to Les Grands Montets. More discreet and more authentic than central Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, it offers:

An unspoilt mountain village atmosphere.

Several hotels and residences at the foot of the slopes.

Train access from Chamonix (Mont-Blanc Express) in 10 minutes.

The arrival area of the cable car for Grands Montets, within walking distance of the village centre.

When to visit (from December 2026 onwards)

Peak season: early December to mid-May, particularly the cold months (January to March) for snow quality.

For expert skiers, March-April often affords the finest combination of snow and light, with longer days and milder temperatures.

Planning a stay in Les Houches or Argentière

AEC Collection selects and represents premium chalets and apartments in the Chamonix valley (Les Houches, Servoz, Argentière, Vallorcine). The Mont-Blanc Unlimited pass is purchased online or at the resort, and grants access to all valley domains.