Aiguilles d'Arves

The Aiguilles d’Arves are a distinctive three-peaked granite massif in the Arves range of the French Alps, located in the Savoie department. The central needle is the highest and forms a well-known alpine silhouette in the Maurienne valley.

The formation attracts mountaineers and ski-tourers for steep rock and mixed routes on compact granite and for panoramic views over the Maurienne. The three distinct summits are a focal point from nearby ski resorts and mountain passes and are visible across long distances in the valley.

The peaks have been climbed since the 19th century as alpinism developed in the Alps; routes and fixed lines were established over successive decades. The massif has long been a landmark for local communities and for alpine guides operating in the Maurienne.

The Aiguilles d’Arves sit above the village of Saint-Jean-d’Arves in Savoie, in the Maurienne valley of the French Alps. They form part of the Arves massif and are reached from road access in the valley and nearby mountain passes.

• Highest point: The central summit reaches about 3,514 metres and is the most prominent of the three sharp granite towers.
• Local prominence: Visible from the Maurienne valley, the group is a landmark for the commune of Saint-Jean-d'Arves and surrounding ski areas.

What to See #

• Major summits: The massif comprises three closely grouped granite summits known locally as the Aiguille Centrale, Aiguille Méridionale and Aiguille Septentrionale; the central peak is the highest and dominates the ridge skyline.