High above the bustling valley of Chamonix, the limestone crest of Le Brévent rises like a postcard‑perfect sentinel. From its summit you can scan the whole Mont‑Blanc massif, watch sunrises paint the glaciers in pink and gold, and, if you’re lucky, hear the distant whirl of the Brévent cable car returning from the slopes. Whether you’re a powder hound, a family on a weekend break, or a photographer hunting that perfect angle, the Brévent experience packs a punch that few alpine spots can match.
What makes this mountain stand out isn’t just the altitude – 2 525 m above sea level – but the seamless blend of accessibility, varied terrain and panoramic views that the whole region offers. In the sections that follow, I’ll walk you through the cable‑car journey, the ski zones, ticket pricing, seasonal schedules and a few curiosities that even seasoned locals sometimes overlook.
Table of Contents
The Brévent Cable Car Experience
At the heart of every Brévent adventure lies its namesake lift system. Launched in 1935 and modernised several times since, the Brévent cable car shuttles passengers from the foothills of Chamonix up to the ridge in just under ten minutes. The cabins, glass‑encased and spacious, give you a 180‑degree view of the valley as you ascend—an early taste of the spectacle that awaits at the top.
Inside the cabin you’ll notice a subtle hum, the sound of the drive wheels gripping the cable, and a gentle sway that feels more like a glide than a climb. Once the doors open, the world explodes into a sea of snow‑capped peaks, verdant alpine pastures and the iconic silhouette of the Aiguille du Midi.
- Departure point: Chamonix‑Centre, near the town’s main parking lot.
- Travel time: ~9 minutes.
- Capacity: Up to 100 passengers per cabin.
- Operating season: Late November to early May, with occasional summer runs for hikers.
For those who prefer a slower pace, there’s a walking trail that parallels the lift, offering a chance to stretch your legs before the altitude kicks in. I’ve taken it a few times on crisp autumn mornings; the silence is broken only by the distant clatter of rocks and the occasional shout of a shepherd dog.
Ticket Options and What They Include
While you can purchase a single‑use ticket at the base station, most visitors opt for a round‑trip pass. The pricing structure is tiered, reflecting age categories and family bundles. Below is a snapshot of the 2025‑2026 season rates, rounded to the nearest euro for simplicity.
| Ticket Type | One‑Way Price | Round‑Trip Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (18‑64) | €19 | €32 |
| Senior (65+) | €16 | €27 |
| Child (5‑12) | €11 | €18 |
| Family Pack (2 adults + 2 children) | €84 | |
All tickets grant you unlimited access to the Brévent ski area for the day of purchase. If you plan on returning to the summit for evening drinks at the terrace café, the round‑trip pass is definitely worth it.
Exploring the Brévent Ski Area
The Brévent ski area is renowned for its sunny exposure—think 300 days of clear skies a year—and its varied runs that cater to every skill level. From gentle blue slopes perfect for beginners to steep steeps that challenge even the most seasoned experts, the terrain is ingeniously laid out to maximise both safety and excitement.
One of the most beloved spots is the “Savoy” run, a wide, gently curving blue that hugs the ridge and offers an unobstructed view of Mont‑Blanc. I’ve watched many families set up their first ski lessons here; the combination of mild gradient and panoramic backdrop makes learning an unforgettable experience.
For adrenaline seekers, the “Pointe du Brévent” hosts a series of black‑diamond routes that drop steeply into the valley. The snow here is typically dry and powdery, especially after a fresh February snowfall. A word of caution: the wind can pick up quickly, so always check the local weather before tackling the harder runs.
Beyond skiing, the area is a hotspot for snowshoeing, backcountry tours and, in the summer, paragliding. The cable car’s upper station serves as a gateway to the “Flegere” plateau, a high‑altitude meadow dotted with wildflowers and grazing marmots.
Brévent Flegere: A Summer Paradise
When the snow melts, the Flegere transforms into a lush alpine oasis. The gentle grassy slopes become a network of hiking trails, each offering a different perspective of the Mont Blanc range. One popular loop starts at the cable‑car station, winds through alpine meadows, and climbs to a modest summit where a small metal cross marks the spot. From there, the view stretches for miles—rocky peaks, glacial lakes, and the distant town of Courmayeur across the border.
During peak summer months, a modest mountain restaurant serves tartiflette, croissants and strong espresso, making it an ideal spot for a mid‑day break. I remember pulling up a chair, watching a group of schoolchildren marvel at a marmot emerging from a burrow, and feeling the gentle alpine breeze—pure serenity.
Timetable and Seasonal Operations
Understanding the lift’s operating hours is crucial for planning your day. The schedule varies with the season, weather conditions and occasional maintenance windows. Below is a typical weekday timetable for the winter season (2025‑2026):
- First departure: 08:30 am
- Last return to Chamonix: 16:30 pm
- Peak interval (09:00‑12:00 & 13:30‑15:30): cabins every 8 minutes
- Off‑peak interval: cabins every 12 minutes
During the high‑season holiday weeks—Christmas, New Year and the February school holidays—the first cabin may leave as early as 07:45 am, and the last return can be delayed until 18:00 pm, accommodating late‑afternoon skiers wanting to catch a sunset.
In summer, the timetable shrinks to a few trips a day, focusing on hikers and mountain‑bikers. The lift runs from 09:00 am to 17:00 pm, with departures every 20 minutes. It’s always wise to check the live board at the base station or the Chamonix Vibes app for real‑time updates.
The Meaning Behind “Brévent”
The name “Brévent” is rooted in the French word “brève”, meaning “short”, and “vent”, meaning “wind”. Historically, locals used the term to describe the sudden, brisk gusts that sweep across the ridge, especially during the transitional months of spring and autumn. These winds can be both refreshing and challenging, shaping the micro‑climate of the area.
Folklore adds another layer: some mountain guides tell stories of a “Brévent spirit” that watches over the slopes, ensuring safe passages for those who respect the mountain. While these tales are steeped in myth, they serve as a gentle reminder to stay vigilant, especially when the wind picks up and visibility drops.
Practical Tips and Insider Tricks
Having spent countless days on Brévent, I’ve compiled a handful of recommendations that can turn a good visit into a great one.
- Arrive early: The first cabin is usually less crowded, giving you a tranquil ascent and a better chance of snagging a prime spot on the slopes.
- Dress in layers: Even on clear days, temperatures can swing dramatically between the base (around 1 000 m) and the summit (over 2 500 m).
- Pack a small snack: The café at the top can get busy; a quick energy bar ensures you keep your stamina high.
- Check the wind forecast: Strong gusts can close certain high‑altitude runs or make the lift temporarily halt.
- Use the “first‑run” pass: If you plan to ski multiple days, buying an early‑season multi‑day package can save you up to 20%.
Here’s a quick anecdote: On a crisp January morning, I missed the first cabin by a minute and watched the line snarl. By the time I finally boarded the second lift, the sun had risen high enough to melt the frost on the piste, turning a potentially icy ride into a silky glide. Sometimes, a tiny hiccup leads to an unexpected delight.
“The view from Brévent at sunrise is a reminder that nature writes its own poetry—every cloud, every ray of light, a stanza.” – A seasoned mountain guide
Frequent Asked Questions
Can you see Mont‑Blanc from Brévent?
Yes, the summit of Le Brévent offers one of the most iconic panoramas of Mont‑Blanc. On clear days, the massive glaciated dome dominates the horizon, and you can even spot the Aiguille du Midi and the Mont‑Maudit in the distance. It’s a photographer’s dream and a simple pleasure for anyone standing on the ridge.
Is Brévent good for beginners?
Absolutely. The lower sections of the Brévent ski area, especially the “Savoy” run, are gently sloping and well‑groomed, making them ideal for first‑time skiers and children. The proximity to the town (just a short bus ride from the base station) means you can easily arrange lessons or rent equipment. Many families consider Brévent their go‑to spot for a relaxed ski day.
How much is the Brévent cable car?
The 2025‑2026 season pricing is as follows: a one‑way adult ticket costs €19, while a round‑trip is €32. Children’s tickets are €11 one‑way and €18 round‑trip. Seniors benefit from a reduced fare of €16 one‑way and €27 round‑trip. For families, a package covering two adults and two children is priced at €84, offering significant savings.
What are the operating hours during the summer?
In the high‑summer months (June to September), the cable car runs from 09:00 am to 17:00 pm, with departures every 20 minutes. The schedule is more limited than the winter season, but it’s perfect for hikers, mountain bikers and anyone wanting a quick ascent to the Flegere plateau for a picnic or a view of the glaciers.
Are there any special events on Brévent?
Throughout the year, the mountain hosts a variety of events: night skiing sessions in early December, a “Sunrise Yoga” class during summer, and occasional alpine film screenings at the upper station’s small amphitheater. Keep an eye on the Chamonix Vibes calendar for dates and registration details.
Why Brévent Should Top Your Alpine Bucket List
From the rapid ascent aboard the Brévent cable car to the endless vistas that greet you at the summit, the mountain encapsulates everything that makes the French Alps exceptional. Whether you’re carving fresh tracks, trekking summer trails, or simply sipping hot chocolate while the wind whistles past, Brévent offers a blend of accessibility, adventure and natural beauty that few places can rival.
Take the lift, breathe the alpine air, and let the landscape inspire your next journey. And when you return to Chamonix‑centre, you’ll carry with you a story worth sharing—a memory etched against the backdrop of Europe’s highest peaks.
