Cascade de Berard closed due to high risk of rock falls

One of the Chamonix valleys most accessible and tranquil tourist sites is facing closure this summer due to the risk of rock falls and damage already seen at the on site restaurant.

Last September, the lady running the buvette reported damage to stilts holding the terrace in place. Experts have visited the site and, sadly, it seems much of the site is at risk of further damage from slides and rock falls. In fact, they reported serial 10s of centimetres of abnormal movement in just a few months.

The narrow pathway that leads to the grotte where visitors can view the waterfall from inside the cave is closed with immediate effect.

The buvette, which originally opened 60 years ago, may be able to open this summer with a small part of the terrace being deemed fit to open. The decision is due to be made around 15 June. Seen as a crushing blow for the commune of Vallorcine (where the site is situated), the Mayor pointed out that it is always safety first and if the experts say it is too risky to open, they won't open.