22 May 2014, a further delay for the grand re-opening of Mont Blanc Express. The scenic mountain train that should re-open on the 2 May, is to be fully functional on 14 June.
Currently, a bus replacement service is in operation to the train timetable.
Mont Blanc Express is a remarkable mountain train service that runs from the French station of St Gervais/Le Fayet, beginning with a steep climb up to the Chamonix valley, passing through Chamonix and Argentiere, then under the Col des Montets, through the Vallorcine Valley, before descending into the Rhone Valley, where it terminates at Martigny, Switzerland.
Since April 2012, the railway track & the Tunnel des Montets has undergone major refurbishment. From the 29 June 2013 the Mont-Blanc Express resumed partial service of the line between Le Fayet (St. Gervais) and Argentiere. Between Chamonix and Montroc some parts have been completely changed, both rails and the underlying ballast. The work on the railway track & the Tunnel des Montets has a budget of 77 million euros. The ultimate objective is to increase the journey frequency to 2 trains per hour, project that will be accomplished nos sooner than 2015.
Initially planned for December 2013, for 22 March 2014 and then for 5 May, the reopening of the full line has been postponed until 14 June 2014. The current delay is due to a comparability issue between the Swiss rolling stock and the brand new French track. Travelers must use the bus between Argentiere and the Swiss border of Chatelard.
While staying in the Chamonix Valley, one gets a free journey on the Mont Blanc Express, with a Carte d'Hote (Guest Card). This card gives free access to Chamonix Valley public transport network between Servoz and Vallorcine.
