Mont Blanc Logistics: The Mont Blanc Multipass

If you're spending a couple days in Chamonix-Mont Blanc area, a Mont Blanc Multipass is an absolute must.

But first, a few basics:

• Chamonix is the biggest valley area at the foot of Mont Blanc where most lodging is situated. It is accessible by car and train.

• Mont Blanc is the main mountain attraction, towering all of the French Alps and Europe at 4,810 meters (15,780 feet). To summit it, you must be a mountaineer.

• Aiguille du Midi is a mountain peak accessible by cable car. It has multiple decks with different views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains. If you're not a trained and skilled mountaineer, this is about the closest you can get to Mont Blanc.

Mont Blanc Multipass

The Mont Blanc Multipass is the one pass you will need to access the major lifts and cable cars in the Mont Blanc area. For 72.50 euros for a two-day pass, it really is a steal. More information and online ordering can be found here.

The Mont Blanc Multipass also includes guaranteed entry to "Step Into the Void" before 9:00AM. "Step Into the Void" is a glass box with glass floors where you can feel like you're suspended in the air with panoramic views of the French Alps. Unfortunately, it was still closed (for maintenance, I believe) the day we went, but it must be an amazing experience.

Aiguille du Midi/Mont Blanc

• Plan an early day. The first lift for Aiguille du Midi leaves at 6:30AM so if you can, get there as early as possible. You are guaranteed to beat the crowds. After 9AM or so, the thick droves of tourists come, so if you want to spare yourself from the madness that could drive you to jump over one of the decks, leave as close to 6:30AM as you can.

• If driving, from Chamonix, look for the signs for Aiguille du Midi. There is a big (and free!) parking lot but again, the earlier you are, the better your chances of beating traffic and securing a parking spot.

• Pack a lunch. The epicerie behind the Aguille du Midi station sells decent food for okay pricing. The food will be more expensive up top.

• If you're tempted to jump out at the Plan de L'Aiguille stop, don't. Make it all the way to the top first and then hit it on the way down if you want to.

• Be kind to yourself. The altitude can get intense so take your time climbing up steps. If you feel breathless, stop until you can regain your breath. Hydrate the day before and the day of. Especially if you're not used to it, this elevation is not one to scoff at.

• Visit the galleries and exhibits. Learn a little bit more about the mountain.

• For trip planning, use the official website of Compagnie du Mont Blanc. It has tons of great information and travel advice. The English version of the site can be found here.

Disclosure: While my Mont Blanc Multipass was sponsored by the Chamonix-Mont Blanc Office de Tourisme, it does not influence my recommendation for visitors to the area to obtain a Multipass. It is the best way to take full advantage of your limited holiday in the area.

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