Highlight • Other
Gîte à Balmat
Hiking
5.0
(3)
Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous
Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
Tips
Loïck Hagneaux
February 11, 2026
Hiking
The Gîte à Balmat is located below La Jonction. It is a natural shelter, simply built into the rock, where guide Jacques Balmat and Dr. Michel Paccard bivouacked on August 7, 1786, in adverse weather conditions, during the very first successful ascent of Mont Blanc.
From here, at an altitude of approximately 2,530 meters, the view over the Chamonix valley is magnificent.
From here, at an altitude of approximately 2,530 meters, the view over the Chamonix valley is magnificent.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Gîte à Balmat
4.9
(96)
1,442
hikers
12.5km
06:55
1,140m
1,140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Hard
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,510 m