On 15 September 2018, a fire destroyed the Lognan mid-station at Les Grands Montets. Within hours, Chamonix lost lift access to one of the most demanding sectors in the Alps. Seven winters later, part of the area finally gets its lifts back.
Seven years of closure
Through those seven seasons the upper mountain did not disappear: it simply reverted to ski touring terrain. The most experienced skiers kept climbing on skins; everyone else moved to Brévent-Flégère and the lower Grands Montets.
What reopens for Christmas
A ten-seat gondola now links the village of Argentière to Lognan, replacing the first section of the old cable car and restoring access to the heart of the sector. A completely rebuilt mid-station houses a restaurant.
The project represents roughly 155 million euros and involved around a hundred and fifty workers above 3,000 metres. The architecture is by Renzo Piano. Full details on the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc project page.
What stays closed, and it matters
The summit, at 3,300 metres, is not accessible this winter. The 3S cable car meant to serve it is announced only for December 2027. The long descent from the aiguille will have to wait another full season.
Is it worth going this winter?
Yes, provided you know what you are after. The reopened sector suits intermediate and confident skiers on superb terrain, with crowds likely to stay moderate while the summit remains closed. Powder hunters should aim for winter 2027-2028 instead.
Practical details
Opening dates depend on technical testing and snow conditions. Check with the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc before travelling, and buy your pass online to skip the ticket windows: our members get reduced rates across more than 150 partner resorts, see the membership page.
Photo : Rémih / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
