Excursion botanique au Jardin de Talèfre - Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix

Perched at an altitude of 3,000 metres, the Jardin de Talèfre bears witness to the evolution of the high mountains in the face of global warming, manifested in particular by changes in the flora and a marked melting of the glaciers.

Day 1
Ascent to the refuge du couvercle
We take the cogwheel railway up to Montenvers at an altitude of 1,913 meters. From here, the new gondola takes us up to the Mer de Glace at 1,700 meters. We then make our way up onto the glacier, where we reach the ladders leading to the heights. A winding path, embellished by new ladders, guides us along the flanks of the Aiguille du Moine, offering us exceptional panoramic views. Our final destination is the Refuge du Couvercle, magnificently renovated in 2023, perched at an altitude of 2,679 metres.
Ascent: 1000m

Day 2
Return to Jardin de Talèfre
Our excursion begins with a trail that takes us up to the Talèfre Glacier at an altitude of 2,500 meters. From here, we progress through a maze of rocks that partially covers the glacier. Finally, we reach the Jardin de Talèfre, nestled between 2,700 and 3,000 meters above sea level. Over the last few centuries, this site has never been covered by glaciers. Framed by two imposing lateral moraines, the garden is home to a remarkable alpine flora, including some of its own unique species. This unspoilt area offers exceptional immersion in an unspoilt natural environment, with breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine landscapes.
Ascent: 500m - Descent: 500m

Day 3
Back to Montenvers via the Leschaux refuge
We return to the Talèfre glacier, which we cross until we reach the Pierre à Béranger (2,500 m), the starting point of a traversing trail to the Leschaux hut, at 2,431 meters. This refuge, a veritable haven of peace, marks the start of the mythical north face of the Grandes Jorasses. It also offers the chance to meet crystal-makers at work. From the refuge, a series of ladders takes us up to the Leschaux glacier (2,300 m), partially covered in rock. We make our way through this chaotic world to reach the Mer de Glace (2,000 m), then begin the descent to the Montenvers gondola. This stage brings our adventure to a close with a panoramic descent offering unforgettable views of the majestic Alpine landscape.
Negative altitude difference: 1000m