Drus Mountain Adventure
Ravish Kumar
| 05-01-2026
· Travel Team
We love mountains that offer adventure and stunning views, and the Drus Mountains in Chamonix, Haute-Savoie, deliver both.
Sitting in the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif, these dramatic granite spires attract climbers, hikers, and photographers alike. Planning our visit with detailed info on transportation, tickets, and hiking options makes our trip smooth and memorable.
How to Get There
The easiest international gateway is Geneva Airport, about 100 km (1 hour) from Chamonix. Shuttle buses run every 30–60 minutes, costing $35 per person one way. We can also rent a car; summer roads are scenic, and winter routes are well-plowed.
Once in Chamonix, walking covers the town center. For mountain access, we can use:
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- Local buses (Chamonix Bus): one-day pass $10, multiple trips around town and trails.
- Taxis: approx $20–$40 to trailheads.
For hiking or climbing the Drus Mountains, the nearest points of access are Les Praz or Montenvers Railway stations.
Where to Stay
Chamonix has options for all budgets:
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses $50–$70 per night (e.g., Chamonix Lodge).
- Mid-range: Hotels $120–$200 per night, close to lifts and downtown (e.g., Hotel Les Aiglons).
- Luxury: Alpine lodges $300+ per night, with panoramic views of Mont-Blanc and the Drus.
Booking ahead is key, especially during winter ski season (Dec–Mar) and summer hiking season (Jun–Sep).
Outdoor Adventures
The Drus Mountains are ideal for climbers and hikers:
- Guided climbs: North Face route costs approx $70–$90 per person, including guide and safety gear.
- Summer hikes: Trails like Grand Balcon Nord or Petit Balcon Sud are 2–6 hours, with stunning views of glaciers and the Drus.
- Vallée Blanche (off-piste ski route): access via Aiguille du Midi cable car, ticket $65, open 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
Winter offers skiing at nearby resorts:
- Full-day ski passes: $75, half-day $55.
- Ski lessons: $45 per hour.
Paragliding and glacier walking are also popular in summer: guided paragliding flights $120–$150 per person.
Must-See Spots
- Aiguille du Midi Cable Car: $65 per person, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM. From the top, panoramic terraces offer unbeatable views of the Drus and Mont-Blanc.
- Montenvers Railway & Mer de Glace Glacier: $35 per person, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Explore ice caves and glacial exhibits.
- Les Praz & Brévent: Scenic viewpoints and beginner-friendly hiking trails.
Downtown Chamonix is lively, with cafés, artisan shops, and local markets. We can relax here after a long day in the mountains.
Dining and Local Flavors
Meals in Chamonix suit all budgets:
- Cafés: pastries and coffee $5–$8.
- Alpine restaurants: fondue, raclette, or tartiflette $25–$40 per person.
- Quick bites: sandwiches, crepes $7–$12.
We can also pick fresh cheese, bread, and fruits from local markets for a mountain picnic.
Best Time to Visit
Chamonix is beautiful year-round:
- Winter (Dec–Mar): skiing and snow activities.
- Summer (Jun–Sep): hiking, climbing, and glacier exploration.
- Spring/Autumn: fewer crowds, lower prices, but some lifts may be closed.
Weather is unpredictable, so we pack layers, waterproof jackets, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
Practical Tips
- Buy cable car and railway tickets online to avoid long lines.
- Apply sunscreen and sunglasses for high-altitude protection.
- Hiking shoes are essential; trails can be rocky and slippery.
- Check shuttle schedules to avoid waiting in cold or rain.
- For technical climbs, hire a mountain guide to stay safe.
Enjoy the Drus Mountains
The Drus Mountains offer more than peaks—they give us adventure, awe, and memories. From hiking scenic trails to climbing dramatic granite faces, Chamonix ensures that every day is unforgettable. We can fill our time with mountains, glaciers, and local charm.
So pack our gear, lace up our boots, and get ready to experience the heart of Mont-Blanc country. Let’s make every moment in the Drus Mountains count—we’ll never forget it!
Chamonix, France: Thin-Air Thrills at the Aiguille du Midi - Rick Steves’ Europe Travel Guide
Video by Rick Steves' Europe