Saint-Gervais-les-Bains

Why Saint-Gervais?

Saint-Gervais-les-Bains covers a remarkable range of altitude. The commune runs from the banks of the Arve, below 600 m, right up to Mont-Blanc, whose summit it shares with Chamonix according to the French land registry.

The name says it all: this is a spa town. The thermal spring was discovered in Le Fayet in 1806, and the baths are still there, in the spa park with its waterfall. Higher up, the Bonnant has carved out a deep gorge, which has been crossed since 2012 by a spectacular viaduct. As for heritage, the church of Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce, completed in 1729, is often described as a little museum of popular Baroque art.

Mont-Blanc by train

Since 1909, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc has run from Le Fayet up towards the Col de Voza. Since 1914, it has gone all the way to the Nid d'Aigle, near the Bionnassay glacier. This is where the normal route up Mont-Blanc begins.

With a pro in Saint-Gervais

Head out trail running with Yan Chatellard, a mountain leader: a run-hike on mountain paths, lasting 2 to 3 hours, whether you want to discover the sport, get some coaching or improve. Drop him a message to arrange it.

You'll find more outings in Les Contamines-Montjoie, Megève and Passy, and plenty more in Chamonix.