Col de Balme – Le Tour
The Le Tour – Col de Balme gondola (Balme/Charamillon sector) lifts you from Le Tour up into high alpine terrain in minutes. It is a great option for hikers in summer and skiers in winter who want big views without a long climb from the valley.
Last updated:
Key takeaways
- Opening dates and operating hours change by season. Check live status before you set off.
- Bring an extra layer. It is colder and windier at the top stations.
- For the best views, pick a clear day and go earlier in the morning.
At a glance
| Website | https://www.chamonix.com/activites/informations-pratiques-remontees-mecaniques/telecabine-de-balme-charamillon |
| Phone | +33 4 50 53 22 75 |
| Map | Open in Google Maps |
| Best for | Hikers, skiers, families, scenic viewpoints |
| Time needed | 2–5 hours depending on your route and stops |
| Season | Typically winter and summer seasons (check the operator) |
| Booking | Not usually required, but pre-buying tickets can save time |
| Cost | Ticketed lift; prices vary by season and pass type |
| Accessibility | Gondola cabins are generally accessible; check station facilities |
What to expect
The Le Tour – Col de Balme gondola (Balme/Charamillon sector) lifts you from Le Tour up into high alpine terrain in minutes. It is a great option for hikers in summer and skiers in winter who want big views without a long climb from the valley.
Getting there
Le Tour is a short hop from Argentière by car, taxi, or local bus. In peak weeks, arrive early to avoid queues and to find parking.
Local tips
- If you are hiking, choose a route that matches your fitness and daylight hours.
- Carry water and a windproof layer even on warm days.
- In winter, check avalanche risk and stay within open, marked areas unless you have the right training and kit.
FAQs
- Does the gondola run in summer?
- Often yes, with a dedicated summer season. Dates vary each year, so check the operator’s live information before you travel.
- Can pedestrians use the gondola?
- Yes. Pedestrians commonly ride up for views and hiking. Check any restrictions for specific lifts or dates.
- How do I get there from central Argentière?
- Le Tour is nearby. By road it is a short drive, and local buses can connect Argentière and Le Tour depending on the season.
- Is it good for families?
- Yes. It is one of the easiest ways to reach high viewpoints with children, provided you keep hikes short and suitable.
- Do I need to book lift tickets?
- You can usually buy on the day. In busy periods, buying online or earlier can save queue time.
Planning your trip to Argentière
If you’re heading to Argentière, Mountain Drop-offs runs private airport transfers from Geneva to the Chamonix Valley. See our Geneva to Argentière Transfer page for timings and travel-day tips. If you need help planning, you can contact us.
