Train Tunnel Connecting Chamonix and Vallorcine to Re-open

Work has now been been completed on the tunnel that connects Chamonix and Vallorcine - home of the Bellevue Alpine Lodge - and it will open shortly.

Photo courtesy Le Dauphine

A costly project, but worth it

The project has cost around €24 million and according to Le Dauphine was visited last week by local officials to review the works.

The tunnel originally opened in 1908, principally for the train.  However, in the Eighties, with the massive increase in car ownership, it was decided to bring in dual use. The tunnel opened to cars as well in 1985.

Cars can use the tunnel when the Col is closed

Cars have only used the tunnel in exceptional circumstances, during very heavy snow conditions when the Col des Montets is closed.  The Col isn't so much steep (the average gradient is 3.3%), but the risk of avalanche can be high

This is great news for Vallorcine and means that regardless of the weather it will always be possible to travel to and from Chamonix from the Bellevue Alpine Lodge.

Photo courtesy Le Dauphine

Article by Iain Martin