The Alpine Pastures of Blaitière Dessous and Dessus

Further information

Nestled on the northern side of the Chamonix valley, the Blaitière mountain pasture, located at an altitude of 1708m, welcomes a new couple of shepherds and their flock of sheep this summer.
Highly motivated, Carine and Thomas Gardiennet decided to change their lives to become alpine farmers. Carine was an intensive care nurse and Thomas a project manager, but their passion for the mountains and agro-pastoralism took over. This summer they are setting up their fifty Thônes and Marthod ewes on the heights of Chamonix.
Carine will offer visitors a tasting of coated fresh cheeses and gourmet dishes. Involved in an association for the promotion of wool, she also plans to make accessories with the wool of her sheep.
Thanks to the Consorts de la Montagne de Blaitière, the mountain pasture benefited in 2021 from a large and beautiful sheepfold completely renovated to double the space dedicated to animals, with a milking parlor and a locked room for the night in protection from predation (linked to the growing presence of the wolf in the valley).

Alpine pastures on the Montagne de Blaitière overlooking the Valley. Fantastic views of the Chamonix Aiguilles.

Start from the Grepon car park at the foot of the Aiguille du Midi, follow the signs to the Pre du Rocher to reach the Alpine pastures and the old chalets of Blaitière-Dessous (1,708 m) - 2 hours. Carry on to the final part of the forest from where you will see the pastures of Blaitière-Dessus appear against a backdrop of the Chamonix Aiguilles. Enjoy the pretty mountain walk on the slope of Mont-Blanc as you approach the pastures.

Other itineraries are available from "Les Planards" car park, the Grand Balcon Nord, or the Aiguille du Midi cablecar midway station.

More information at the Tourist Office, the High Mountain Office, and in our hiking guide.
Careful: Path conditions may change - remember to check the latest information before setting off.