The Grotte de Glace, a waking dream

Every year, the Grotte de Glace is maintained and dug out as a result of the ever-decreasing thickness of the glacier. It was in 1862 that the crazy idea of creating an artificial grotto was born. The first cave was dug elsewhere, since the Mer de Glace went all the way down to the bottom of the valley, and was called the Glacier des Bois. The Grotte de Glace we know today is located in this glacier, two kilometres above the very first cave. It was built in 1946, and underwent a number of alterations until 1953. Initially, visitors had to get there on foot. But in 1960, a cable car was built from Montenvers station. Access to the Grotte de Glace was then made safe. Since then, more than 400 steps have had to be added just off the ring road to get to the cave. What's more, because of the climate, it would appear that a new location is being sought for the construction of a new grotto.

From Chamonix, take the Montenvers train up to the heights. This little red train makes a short 20-30 minute journey, during which you can admire the surrounding landscape. The Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) stretches further down, with its distinctive zebra pattern and varied hues. Don't forget to book your ticket in advance if you want a seat on this popular train. Its appearance is reminiscent of the trains of yesteryear, as it has been running on these rails since 1908.

You then take a cable car up to the Grotte de Glace, a little further down. This will take you up the 400-plus steps. For the more courageous, there is also a short footpath leading to the Grotte de Glace.

The Grotte de Glace takes the form of a long corridor, where various ice sculptures are also on display. The sculptors use wood saws, irons and curling irons to smooth the ice. The exhibition changes every year, so if you go a second time, you won't have much of a feeling of déjà vu. The galleries are lit by different lights, some green, some blue and some purple. It all adds up to a magical experience that will delight young and old alike. An invigorating and unusual family outing!

Photographs are permitted, but it's best to avoid using flash photography to capture the glow of the ice. Unsurprisingly, it's a chilly place, so dress warmly. On average, it takes two or three hours to reach, visit and leave this cave. So you'll need to set aside an afternoon or morning to devote to it, without having to rush.

Once your visit is over, you can take the time to wander around the Mer de Glace. Here again, the scenery is well worth the diversions, and after this immersion in the ice, you may see the panorama differently. On the heights, in the vicinity of the Montenvers station, there is a restaurant where you can enjoy a hot drink or other beverage on a pretty terrace. From there, you can continue to admire the icy mountains. There is also a hotel here, if you want to enjoy the changing scenery at dusk and dawn.