Grande Lui

La Grande Lui (also spelled Grand-Luy) is a 3,509 m summit of the Mont Blanc massif, rising above the Orsières area in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits west of the village of La Fouly, on the ridge dividing the Saleina and l'A Neuve glaciers. This is a mountaineering and ski-touring objective, not a casual viewpoint.

Where is Grande Lui?

The peak stands east of the Aiguille de l'A Neuve. The nearest village is La Fouly, at about 1,600 m, part of the municipality of Orsières (around 900 m) at the head of the Val Ferret. The name derives from an old word for a rock face, hence the variant Grand-Luy. Coordinates are roughly 45.958 N, 7.048 E.

How do you climb it?

The standard approach begins in La Fouly. On day one a trail leads to the Cabane de l'A Neuve, about 3.5 hours with a short chained section. It is a basic Swiss Alpine Club hut perched on a spur above the valley.

On day two you cross a glacial basin to the foot of the rocky face. From there you either reach the Grande Lui col and follow the ridge left to the top, or take the final slope of scree and boulders. A second route starts at Praz de Fort and climbs via the Col de Saleina and the south face; the Cabane de Saleinaz (2,691 m), reached by a trail with fixed ropes and steps, helps with lodging.

Glacier experience, rope gear and sound judgement of conditions are required. Beginners should hire a guide.

When to go?

Summer, roughly July to September, is the season for the standard climb, when the glacier is free of fresh snow. In winter and spring La Fouly is a starting point for ski tours, including to Grande Lui and Mont Dolent. Check the forecast and glacier conditions, and book a hut bed in advance.

What else is nearby?

• Val Ferret: a valley with walking trails beneath the Mont Blanc massif.
• La Fouly: the lodging base and trailhead for mountain routes.
• Cabane de Saleinaz and Cabane de l'A Neuve: huts that serve as starting points for high-alpine routes.

FAQ

How high is it? 3,509 m above sea level.

Can I climb it without a guide? Yes, if you have glacier and alpine experience. Otherwise hire a guide.

Where is the best starting point? La Fouly via the Cabane de l'A Neuve; alternatively Praz de Fort via the Col de Saleina.

Is there infrastructure on the way? Facilities end at La Fouly and the huts; higher up you must be self-sufficient.