This section of the Grand Balcon Sud can be done in either direction and has the benefit of lifts at either end, saving your calves on the way up and your knees on the way down.
Grand Balcon Sud, Brévent to Flégère
A stunningly beautiful but very accessible hike in the mountains
Starting from Chamonix centre, head up behind the tourist office and take the Brévent-Planpraz lift up to the mid-station at 2,000m. When you come out of the lift station you’ll see a restaurant directly ahead of you, follow the path that goes to the left of it and you’ll soon pick up signs for the Grand Balcon Sud and La Flégère.
The trail drops downhill first of all, twisting through boulders covered in thick bracken and wildflowers. Listen out for the whooping sound of marmots, they’re well camouflaged but you’re never far away from them up here.
Although there is a bit of up and down to contend with, this hike ambles fairly gently along a path that once passed through old grazing pastures - you’ll still come across the ruins of old cottages and shepherds huts from time to time. Small streams run alongside the path in places and there are countless places to take the perfect photo, or to stop for a leisurely picnic.
On the sunnier side of the valley and above the tree line, this is a great hike for admiring the spectacular views across to the Mont Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges.
It doesn’t take long at all, maybe only a couple of hours, but it can easily be extended at either end by hiking up to Lac Brévent from Planpraz or Lac Blanc from Flégère.
What to bring
This hike is very exposed to the elements, so take sunscreen and suitable clothing.
What to see
We've seen marmots, chamois and bouquetin frequently on this hike - more often in spring or autumn when there are fewer people around. If you exit the Planpraz lift station and take a sharp left up a small hill you'll be able to watch parapenters taking off.
Sights in Chamonix
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Le Brévent, Chamonix - Town
South-facing mountain with amazing views of the Mont Blanc massif which sits across the valley
Brévent is the closest summer lift to the centre of Chamonix and its impressive rocky summit rises to 2,525m above sea level.
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Crystal museum
Musée des Cristaux has a collection of minerals and crystals collected in the valley
Discover the minerals from the Mont Blanc Valley, famous throughout the world, and learn more about the art of mountaineering.
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Maison de la Memoire et du Patrimoine, Chamonix- Centre
A modern museum dedicated to the history of Chamonix located on its oldest street
This museum houses exhibits of Chamonix's past.
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Alpine museum
Musée Alpin de Chamonix currently closed for renovations, planned reopening: June 2026
The museum is currently closed for renovations
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Municipal library
Public library and exhibitions in central Chamonix with great kids section
The main central library for Chamonix which houses the occasional exhibition and lectures.
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Mer de Glace and Montenvers cog railway
Everything you need to know about a visit to this iconic glacier and railway
No trip to Chamonix should be complete without a visit to the legendary Mer de Glace, the longest and arguably the most impressive glacier in the Chamonix valley. It is also the largest glacier in France.
Where to lunch
There are cafés at both Planpraz and at Flégère, as well as many beautiful picnic spots along the way. If you plan on hiking down from Flégère, be sure to make the detour to Chalet Floria, if only for a quick coffee.
Restaurants in Chamonix
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La Bergerie de Planpraz Restaurant
Mountain restaurant featuring wood-fired flavours from the Savoie and Italy
At an altitude of 2000m facing the Mont-Blanc massif, welcome to their restaurant, La Bergerie de Planpraz.
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Big Mountain Basecamp Bar & Restaurant
Local craft beer, artisan pizzas and epic mountain views in the heart of Chamonix
Whether you’re hungry or thirsty after a day in the mountains, Big Mountain Basecamp has you covered. Come for fresh craft beer, a relaxed restaurant atmosphere, an on-site micro-brewery, a large sunny terrace, shady beer garden and a take-out beer shop.
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La Fruitière Restaurant
Gourmet restaurant next to the Savoy nursery ski area that provides a welcoming atmosphere
This elegant restaurant is situated in La Folie Douce Hotel.
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The Dainty Pizza Restaurant
Good value sourdough pizza in the Neapolitan tradition, take away or delivered
Using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, these pizzas are made with a sourdough crust prepared from mother yeast, two flours, sea salt, water and extra virgin olive oil, then left to rise for at least 72 hours for light, easy digestion. They use San Marzano and Yellow Datterini tomatoes and the freshest fior di latte mozzarella. With sustainability in mind, only a couple of organic meat options are offered, keeping the menu thoughtful and delicious.
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Bighorn Bistro Restaurant
American cuisine, craft beers, cocktails, and homemade baked goods
Bighorn Bistro in Chamonix Sud is known for its homemade American-style comfort food, from stacked burgers to freshly baked desserts. You can pair your meal with a craft beer or one of their creative cocktails. With friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a favourite with both locals and visitors, offering generous portions, warm hospitality, and a menu that consistently delivers hearty, satisfying flavours after a day on the mountain or during a relaxed evening out.
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Pointe Isabelle Bar and Bistro Restaurant
Central hotel with a stylish restaurant and bar popular with locals and holidaymakers alike
This tastefully refurbished restaurant and bar are right in the heart of Chamonix on the popular Avenue Michel Croz, close to the train station.
What to do
If you do this hike the other way round, from La Flégère to Planpraz, you can forget about taking the lift down and fly instead! Planpraz is a popular take-off zone for parapenters.
Things To Do in Chamonix
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Cinema VOX
English films and digital 3D equipped
Chamonix's own Cinema VOX is situated right in the centre of town, slightly tucked back on the Place Balmat (main square in the centre). There are three recently refurbished screens equipped with digital 3D projectors show the latest French and International films, as well as a number of premieres and specialist mountain-sports films.
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Photography workshop - "L'Art du Regard"
Inspiring half-day in nature, led by an award-winning photographer
Join an award-winning photographer for a half-day course focused on improving your observation, exploring light, and developing your photographic eye. This workshop is suitable for all levels, ages, and equipment types.
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Tandem paragliding
Enjoy the trip of a lifetime with these qualified tandem paragliding specialists - All year round
This company's sole activity is tandem paragliding, so they are 100 % focused on you and your flight. Their fully qualified pilots have vast experience and have done 1,000s of flight in the Chamonix Valley.
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Tandem Paragliding
Soar above the Alps: tandem paragliding adventures for every age and skill level
Discover the unforgettable sensation of flying high above the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley on a tandem paragliding adventure. Whether it’s your first time in the air or you’re craving an adrenaline-fuelled experience, each flight is designed to showcase the Alps from their most spectacular angle.
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Guided snowshoeing
Half day or full day private guided snowshoeing walks
Off-piste snowshoe outings where you can discover the charm and serenity of the Chamonix Valley on foot.
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Guided off-piste Vallée Blanche
Experience a guided off-piste ski or snowboard adventure on the Vallée Blanche
Chamonix Mont Blanc Guides specialise in high mountain guiding, skiing and alpinism. Based in the Chamonix Valley, at the foot of the Mont Blanc range, they have all the experience and expertise to make your dream adventure become a reality.
