The train of the Mont-Blanc valleys
History and engineering of Mont-Blanc Express

Towards Vernayaz, kilometer 3.914

Saint-Gervais-Les Bains – Le FayetCheddeServozLes HouchesLes BossonsChamonix-Mont-BlancLes TinesArgentièreMontroc-le-PlanetVallorcineLe Châtelard-FrontièreFinhautLe TrétienLes MarécottesSalvanVernayaz MCMartignyLes Montets tunnelRack section🇨🇭🇫🇷05101520253035051015Third-rail electrificationOverhead electrification

The most typical section of the line starts shortly after Salvan: the descent to Vernayaz has a rack, allowing it to reach a 200 mm/m gradient. The passage is so steep that the line even has to use a spiral tunnel (tunnel des Chardons).

At the bottom of the slope, the line reaches Vernayaz in the Rhône valley. Vernayaz is the line’s technical and operational center. Its workshops are well known competencies and they carry out work for several railway companies.

Close to Salvan, the rack has recently been removed.
Close to Salvan, the rack has recently been removed.
The rack section starts a little below Salvan.
The rack section starts a little below Salvan.
The rack section, seen from a Z 800 EMU.
The rack section, seen from a Z 800 EMU.
The rack section, between Salvan and Vernayaz.
The rack section, between Salvan and Vernayaz.
A Z 800 EMU in the steep ascent between Vernayaz and Salvan.
A Z 800 EMU in the steep ascent between Vernayaz and Salvan.
Overview of the significant gradient in the rack section.
Overview of the significant gradient in the rack section.
A Z 800 EMU in the rack section.
A Z 800 EMU in the rack section.
Before Vernayaz, the track crosses Tunnel de la Buvette and a bridge over the Trient creek. The rack section stops at the station.
Before Vernayaz, the track crosses Tunnel de la Buvette and a bridge over the Trient creek. The rack section stops at the station.
This BDeh 4/4 is coming out of the Tunnel de la Buvette, in Vernayaz.
This BDeh 4/4 is coming out of the Tunnel de la Buvette, in Vernayaz.
Unusual crossing at Vernayaz. Historic rolling stock is on display for a special open day.
Unusual crossing at Vernayaz. Historic rolling stock is on display for a special open day.
The platforms at Vernayaz.
The platforms at Vernayaz.
A Z 800 EMU in Vernayaz.
A Z 800 EMU in Vernayaz.
Last update: 12 August 2023. © Christophe Jacquet, 2000-2023. Legal and terms of use. ✍ Contact. Site map.
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