Mer de Glace

Another stunning day in the Chamonix Valley. This summer really has been amazing in terms of sunshine and generally great weather. Yesterday, I made my first trip this year along the Grand Balcon Nord high above the valley, and was reminded yet again that the Victorians in thier quest for fresh air and beautiful views definitely knew where to put a path! At the moment the autumn colours are beginning to come through with the 'myrtilles' turning deep red and the Rowan berries are hanging heavy on the trees.

After the traverse we pushed on up to Le Signal Forbes the high point where Scottish scientist James Forbes carried out his observations of the Mer de Glace Glacier. Nice for me as a Scot, to know that our understanding of how glaciers work and move was defined by a fellow countryman. The views from here as you can hopefully see from the photo are absolutly stunning and there is always a satisfying collective gasp from our clients as they glimpse this natural wonder for the first time.

The Mer de Glace, or Sea of Ice, at 7 km's long and 200 metres deep is the longest glacier in France. Like all glaciers, it is constantly renewed under the effect of two phenomena: accumulation of snowfall and also melting. It flows permanently under the effect of its own weight and although not perceptible to the naked eye, it is considerable. From more than 120 meters a year in its upper part, the Mer de Glace moves about 90 meters per year in the region of Montenvers, which is about one centimeter per hour