Tramway reaches Nid d'Aigle since 1913

The Mont-Blanc tramway has operated to the Nid d'Aigle station at an altitude of 2,372 meters since August 1, 1913. This station was established as a provisional terminus, meaning it was meant to be a temporary endpoint while planning continued construction toward the Aiguille du Goûter, a peak at 3,817 meters.

Original goal was Aiguille du Goûter

The tramway was initially designed to reach the Aiguille du Goûter, a high point on the Mont Blanc massif. However, financial difficulties and the outbreak of World War I in 1914 halted further construction. Despite the challenging terrain, the project was not stopped by natural obstacles like ice or avalanches.

Financial issues and war halted progress

The tramway's construction faced significant financial challenges, starting with a budget collapse in 1908 and the resignation of its chief engineer, Duportal. These issues led to a period of financial instability. By 1912, a provisional administrator was appointed, and plans for electrification were delayed due to lack of funds. The mobilization on August 2, 1914, further disrupted progress.

Extensions and delays over the years

After the war, the tramway remained largely inactive until the 1950s, when there was a brief attempt to extend the line toward Mont Blanc du Tacul. However, this idea was eventually abandoned. Electrification, delayed since 1912, finally began commercial service in 1957, 44 years after the tramway reached Nid d'Aigle.

Recent extension and costs

On June 27, 2026, the Department of Haute-Savoie inaugurated a 280-meter extension to the new station, Refuge-du-Nid-d’Aigle, at 2,412 meters. This extension added only 40 meters in altitude, marking a small step forward after 113 years of delays. The total cost of the tramway renovation, including the extension, track, carriages, and new terminus, amounted to approximately 120 million euros in public funds.

Tramway equipment and future

The historical carriages of the tramway were named Marie, Jeanne, and Anne. New Stadler carriages were delivered starting March 23, 2022, as part of a broader renovation involving four new carriages. Despite these updates, the original goal of reaching the summit of Mont Blanc remains unachieved, with the Aiguille du Goûter still 1,405 meters above the new terminus.