The powerful words of Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem ‘Mont Blanc’ are for me the strongest motivation to travel anywhere. There are no funny tales, pleasant valleys or sun-kissed beaches. This poem leaves you in awe of the “Ghastly, and scarred, and riven” landscape as Mont Blanc “gleams on high”. It casts a timeless, intoxicating spell which envelops the senses and moves us to think beyond our own lives.

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It's at 3842 metres in the cable car station at the top of the Aiguille du Midi. Advertised as the highest Savoyard restaurant in the Alps (I'm guessing it's the highest in the whole world!) The food is good and the views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Aiguilles are fantastic. You basically get a real taste (albeit very much a lite version) of the experience of high-altitude mountaineering. The downside is that it costs 41 euros to get up there.

Aiguille du Midi telepherique, Chamonix Mont Blanc
www.chamonix.com

Google map: tinyurl.com/y983uo7

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With apologies to Julie Andrews, as far as mountain climbing for beginners goes there's nun better than Skiddaw with its natural route clearly visible.

It's a steep climb, but persistence will deliver some amazing views. There are no ropes, pickaxes or on-all-fours required, although be prepared for a slight feeling of shame as runners often jog past.

Take a child and pretend you are going at their pace.

Follow the signposts on the A591 and you'll soon be on the simplest way up Skiddaw.

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This is a traditional-style gite with a great view of the Bossons Glacier and Mont Blanc massif. The owners are very friendly and the food served is typical of the area. Ask to see their collection of shot glasses!

La Crèmerie du Glacier 333, route des Rives
Nearest station: Les Bossons
Tel.: +33(0)4.50.55.90.10

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A small yet perfectly-formed company for anyone interesting in mountaineering in the French Alps. They offer a wide number of courses to suit everyone from absolute beginners to experts. Bloody good at what they do, and a terrific laugh too.

90 Via d'Aoste, Chamonix Sud
www.icicleUK.com
+33 (0) 67 55 621 55

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