A Spin over Mont Blanc

A Spin over Mont Blanc Even though the famous mountain is visible from the town, there’s no better way of getting up close then in a small aeroplane. The Altiport de la Cote 2000 is just outside, nothing more than a strip of asphalt amidst green pastures. There’s been a recent flurry of snow so the mountains are peak white against the blue sky. It’s a bright and sunny morning as I climb over the wing into the small single engine Musketeer. There are two in the back but I’m up front with the pilot and he reassuringly says conditions are “impeccable”. We’re soon above Megève's Mont d'Arbois (at 1833 metres) and make our way to the Mont Blanc Massif above the Chamonix Valley, still in shade at this time in the morning. Our target, at 4808m looms up front, towering above its rivals, and we follow the Argentiere Glacier. A swift left turn around the Aiguille Verte brings us above the Mer de Glace, its snow pristine. There’s a certain amount of twisting and turning as we get alarmingly close to the sheer rocky pinnacles of the Aiguille de Midi. I can only hope the pilot knows what he’s doing. He points out the mountain refuges which are used as jumping off points for the ascent of Mont Blanc and, crossing one ridge, we scatter a herd of Chamois. It’s exhilarating stuff, with perfect light, really a memorable experience. After 40 minutes we touch down back at the Altiport and I’m a little shaken, even a bit stirred. Details: Aerocime.com

Of course, if you’re going to indulge in fine dining, it pays to get some exercise. In the winter the ski slopes are justly renowned but you can keep fit in any season. An extensive network of mountain trails and cycle tracks circle the town so I set out on an e-bike. This makes light work of the hills and I’m soon staring at Mont Blanc in the far distance. My final meal is a Toquicimes lunch at Le Palais to raise money for the French Bocuse d’Or team. I tuck in with relish – after all, it’s not every day that I’m given the opportunity to eat for France. Useful Information See Megeve.com for more information The 5* Fermes de Marie has an excellent spa The 3* Coin du Feu has been refurbished EasyJet has return flights to Geneva from London Gatwick Return transfers from Geneva Airport to Megève cost from £90pp based on two people sharing a vehicle.