View of Mont Blanc from the Désert de Platé

L’Odysée des Fossiles

Just step aboard the Grandes Platières cable car and the journey begins. But make no mistake — this is far more than a simple ride up the mountain. Here, it’s none other than Captain Nemo himself, with his trusty assistant Juliette,
who invites you to board an extraordinary vessel: the Nautilus. Destination? The high alpine peaks at 2,500 metres, for an expedition where science meets legend. Whether ...

who invites you to board an extraordinary vessel: the Nautilus. Destination? The high alpine peaks at 2,500 metres, for an expedition where science meets legend.

Whether you’re a curious hiker or on a family outing, you’ll be guided by a seasoned mountain professional who leads you through this fascinating world. He takes you along the hidden trails of the Désert de Platé — a lunar-like plateau sculpted over time by glaciers and flowing water. Beneath your feet, the ground seems to whisper the story of an ancient ocean floor. Embedded shells, fossilized textures, and etched limestone slabs unfold like open-air archives from millions of years ago.

And all around, the magic continues. The horizon reveals the mighty Mont Blanc, towering in the distance, while life quietly reclaims its place in this mineral world. Playful marmots dart between rocks, butterflies dance on the breeze, and raptors soar overhead… Life reveals itself when you least expect it. Thanks to your guide’s insights, young and old alike uncover the hidden wonders of this timeless landscape — and learn how to protect it.

A true alpine adventure, led with passion and expertise.

Equipments

  • Waste management
  • Defibrillator
  • First aid station

Opening

From 28/06 to 29/08/2025 on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm.

Public

Min. age : 10 years
Max. group size : 12

Languages

  • French

Welcoming people with disabilities

  • Not accessible in a wheelchair

Pets welcome

Pets : Not accepted.

Further information

Home :
- What equipment do you need? Water, sunglasses, hiking boots and a fleece. Dress warmly, because even in summer, temperatures plummet quickly at 2,500 metres.
- Where to eat? At the Bistrot de l'Odyssée, opposite Mont Blanc, a 1 km walk from the finish station. Otherwise, other restaurants are open throughout the summer in the resort.
- Don't forget your camera, the panorama is exceptional.
Booking :
Bookings must be made 24 hours in advance on the www.grand-massif.com website.
For more information, contact us on +33 6 87 77 85 98 or by email: odyssee@compagniedesalpes.fr

Rates

One price: 43 €.
Price includes : The price includes a return trip to the Grandes Platières cable car and the services of a mountain professional.
Price does not include : Meals and drinks are not included in the price.
Payment methods :
  • Online payment

How to find us

Meet your mountain guide at the departure point of the Grandes Platières (DMC) cable car, Flaine Forum.

To get there, you can park in the P2 parking lot (free in summer) at the Flaine Forum. Then walk to the start of the Grandes Platières cable car, following the white nautilus (shell) markings on the ground (approx. 10 min walk).
L’Odysée des Fossiles
  • Flaine Forum
  • From June 28, 2025 to August 29, 2025
  • Book Now