best self guided tour du mont blanc

How to Hike the Tour Du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

By: Author Gabi

Posted on Last updated: April 7, 2024

The 105-mile Tour du Mont Blanc hike is one of the most renowned, prestigious, and extraordinary backpacking trips in the world. While challenging, this trek doesn’t require any special expertise, and hiring a guide isn’t necessary. This guide will help you plan your very own, self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trek and experience one of the greatest hikes on earth.

While the Tour du Mont Blanc is considered one of the greatest walks in the world, a surprisingly large number of people have never heard of this famous hike that takes you around the base of one of the Alp’s largest mountains, Mont Blanc.

Mont Blanc’s grandeur at 15,771 feet captivates Le Brévent, Courmayeur, and the thrilling Aiguille du Midi cable car.

Sure, tackling the Tour Du Mont Blanc can be a life-changing experience suitable for various skill levels. But before diving in, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand what the journey entails to set yourself up for success.

The Tour du Mont Blanc: a trek that beckons with beauty and challenges alike. Despite my extensive prep, key details eluded me. Still, the journey was magical. Yet, more insights beforehand could’ve elevated the experience. Research consumed hours, but info scarcity was a hurdle.

I hope this planning guide will give you ample beta so you can plan the perfect Tour du Mont Blanc adventure.

Table of Contents

What Is The Tour Du Mont Blanc?

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 168 km (104 mile) trail that goes around the Mont Blanc Massif and has a total height gain and loss of 32,000 feet (10,000m) depending on the variants you choose…that’s the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest (without the high altitude of course).

Mont Blanc isn’t solitary. It’s surrounded by a breathtaking lineup of peaks like Grandes Jorasses, Aiguille Noire, Aiguille du Midi, the Verte and Drus, Mont Maudit, and Mont Dolent. These names might not mean much during the planning phase, but once witnessed in person, these jagged, glacier-clad summits etch themselves into your memory for a lifetime.

Mont Blanc, spanning France, Italy, and Switzerland, offers diverse cultures and cuisines along its perimeter hike.

This trek stands out from other renowned treks because it offers diverse accommodation options like refuges, chalets, and hotels instead of solely relying on camping, though camping remains a viable choice.

When you hike the Tour du Mont Blanc you aren’t summiting any of these peaks. You rarely even walk along the base of peaks. Usually, you walk along a hillside across the valley so that you can look at the Mont Blanc Massif from a better vantage point.

The Tour du Mont Blanc winds through valleys, crossing 10 or 11 passes, revealing stunning mountain landscapes.

You never have to worry about getting lost, the trail is very well-marked.

Besides making the hike easier than what a mountaineer would take on, you get incredible views of Mont Blanc from many different vantage points along the way because you are looking at the mountain from a distance.

Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

I found this map to be most helpful in the preliminary stages of planning our Tour du Mont Blanc trek.

I suggest pinning this map to one of your Pinterest boards or screenshotting it for easy access.

Planning your self-guided TMB trek is going to be very confusing until you’ve got a good understanding of this map.

Reasons To Hike The Tour Du Mont Blanc

I’ve done a lot of hikes and traveled to many countries, hiking the TMB is at the top of my list for 3 reasons:

• Glaciers: We’ve seen a lot of glaciers through our travels but never so many in such a short period. If glaciers make you happy, you have to do the TMB.
• Food: The food in Europe is so delicious, but to me, the French do food best. I’m not talking about overpriced Parisian food. I mean the down-to-earth real food you can find in every French town. Baguettes, butter, croissants, chocolate cakes, berries, coffee, and most of all the incredibly fresh and gorgeous looking produce. You haven’t had lettuce until you’ve had it in France! The refugees in Italy were insanely good good too.
• Solitude: Sure we passed people on the trail but for the most part, we had a ton of solitude. I can’t remember the last time my mind felt so at peace. Despite occasional pangs of guilt for leaving my children behind, the immeasurable personal wellness and growth gained from this life-changing adventure make it entirely worthwhile.

If that isn’t enough to inspire you, check out these 35 insane pics that Gabi captured along the way .

Why You Should Go With Self-Guided

Up until I was actually on the trail, I didn’t realize so many people chose to go with a guide on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Honestly, a guide is unnecessary and this hike is anything but a rugged adventure. Challenging? Yes. But rugged? No. There is almost no risk of getting lost, you’re practically staying in a hotel every night, and you pass through civilization daily.

If you’re here, you likely know the perks of self-guided TMB trekking: cost-effective, flexible, and less obligatory socializing. Refuge communities suffice for social butterflies.

The only reason not to go with a self-guided tour would be if you’re the type who doesn’t like planning and doesn’t mind letting someone have full control of the schedule.

Where Does the Tour du Mont Blanc Start & End?

Traditionally, the Tour du Mont Blanc starts in the Chamonix Valley in Les Houches , which is a short bus ride from Chamonix. Many hikers also choose to start in Courmayeur, Italy especially if it is easier to get a flight into Milan.

Technically, the Tour du Mont Blanc is circular so you really can start it anywhere.

The reason most start in Les Houches and hike it in a counterclockwise direction is that it leaves the most dramatic views of Mont Blanc and the slopes of the Aiguilles Rouges chain for the end.

Most people choose to start the Tour du Mont Blanc in Chamonix, France, or Courmayeur, Italy because these towns are big enough to get supplies in, they are easy to find transportation to and from, and are lively ski towns that are destinations in themselves.

How to Get to The Tour du Mont Blanc

The closest international airports are Geneva, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy, and getting a bus to Chamonix or Courmayeur is very easy. As I’ve mentioned, depending on where you’re flying from, Milan may be a cheaper and/or easier flight though I will say that I liked Chamonix far more than Courmayeur.

We always use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. Use the search box below to find cheap flights from your chosen location.

Buses and Trains to Chamonix

Since we were starting in Chamonix, we flew into Geneva and then took a bus to Chamonix. We used both AlpyBus, Easy Bus, and Swiss Tours for different legs of our bus ride.

The most important about this part is to try and avoid flying in late at night. There are very few bus services that run late at night which means you have to opt for the train (which is painful) or pay for a private transfer .

Initially, we booked with AlpyBus because they were one of the few options that had the option at 11 pm but unfortunately, our flight got delayed to get to Geneva, and by the time we arrived, we had missed our booked shuttle ride and no other shuttles were running that night that they could re-book us on.

We ended up rebooking a new ride with EasyBus since their first bus of the day was at 6 am whereas AlpyBus wasn’t until 10 am or so and on the way back we rode with Swiss Tours.

Bus Services to Chamonix

Prices are per person

• AlpyBus : 25 Euros one way, 50 Euro round-trip; I can’t vouch for AlpyBus since I never actually got a chance to ride there however their booking process was really easy and the benefit of their service is that they’ll drop you off at your specific accommodation. They also have private transfers and they can take you to Courmayeur or Champex if you’re starting somewhere else.
• EasyBus : 17 Euros one way, 34 Euro round-trip; A cheap option with early morning service. Smooth and easy process even though we booked less than 24 hours in advance.
• SwissTours : 10-15 Euros one way (depending on the day); SwissTours was simple and easy and even though it’s a bus, not a shuttle, they were upscale busses with restrooms and wifi. Slightly longer bus ride since they stopped in the city of Geneva. Amazing value for the price.
• Mountain Drop-offs : Did not ride this one personally but is known as one of the highest-rated ride services to Chamonix. Suitable for late arrivals since they offer private shuttles.

Riding a train can be a cheap option however the train route to Geneva requires a lot of transfers which can be a real drag especially when you’re super excited to get on the trail.

Overall, try to avoid arriving at Geneva Airport late at night and if you do, it’s best to save yourself the headache and pay for a private transfer.

If you are traveling within Europe, local train travel to Chamonix is a very easy option and often doesn’t require many transfers

Staying in Chamonix

Most hikers opt to stay in their starting town for a few days before or after their TMB trek purely for the sake of enjoying the beautiful towns.

I loved staying a few days in Chamonix. If you are considering spending a few days here before or after (or both like us) then check out our complete guide to Chamonix (coming soon).

We loved staying at La Folie Douce Hotel and highly recommend it to all trekkers.

Related: Why We Love La Folie Douce Hotel in Chamonix

If you’ve brought a tent and are planning on tent camping on the TMB, you’ll want to stay at Camping Les Arolles in town.

The town of Chamonix is super pedestrian-friendly no matter where you stay and there’s even a free bus system to get around town if necessary.

We use Booking.com to find great hotel deals.

Getting to Les Houches

Assuming that you’re tackling the TMB in the traditional anti-clockwise direction, you’re starting point is in the town of Les Houches which you pass right through when you drive into Chamonix from Geneva.

When you’re ready to begin your trek, you’re going to want to get on the bus that departs every 30 minutes from Chamonix Sud, the main bus station in Chamonix that is hard to miss.

Note that this isn’t the only way to start the TMB and that there are many alternate starting options.

For example, we started our tour by riding the Le Brevent cable car right from the town of Chamonix. We did this because of unfavorable weather conditions to unfavorable weather predictions and we wanted to make sure we didn’t miss out on the amazing views of stage 11.

Because weather is so unpredictable in the Alps, even in the summer, I highly encourage you to have a plan and then a few back up plans.

Read How We Fast Packed the TMB to get ideas on how you can deviate from the traditional route in case the weather isn’t ideal for you.

Refuges vs Camping

There are two main ways to go about accommodation on the Tour. The most popular option is to stay at hotels and refuges as mentioned earlier.

Refuges are what make the TMB a unique backpacking experience. Not only does it mean you can carry a very light pack, but you also get to trek through one of the world’s most stunning mountain ranges whilst eating like a king every evening from a remote and cozy mountain hut.

Refuge food is ridiculously food and there is nowhere else in the world where you can eat so luxuriously while backpacking.

At the same time, refuges are very expensive ranging from 50-60 Euros per person per night (half board price with dinner and breakfast included) so we opted for camping (with 2 nights at a refuge).

I loved camping and don’t regret our decision to camp since we got to sleep in the most stunning spots but it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly. By camping you will have to carry at least 20lb packs as opposed to when staying refuges, you can carry as little as 8lb packs.

If you’re considering camping, read this blog for all the details on Camping the TMB.

Staying at Refuges

Staying at a European mountain refuge is a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s one part shelter and ease of travel, one part incredible culinary delights, and one part a community experience of people who are all here for the same reason, to hike the Alps.

Now there are a few things you should know about staying at refuges.

Refuge Basics

A refuge is a mountain hut and is run like a bed and breakfast. Some are privately owned and some are owned by the county/city (Elisabetta for example). Either way, every refuge is dedicated to providing you with the utmost comfort on your adventure. That’s not to say that all refugees are on par with one another. It’s important to consider which refuges you’re going to stay at because not all of them deliver a 5-star Alps experience (Chalet Refuge de la Balme for example).

In refuges, the schedule revolves around dinnertime. Dinnertime is one of the most wonderful experiences of the TMB and includes 3-4 courses. In general, dinner is served between 6:30 pm and 7:15 pm which means that you should be arriving at least an hour before that so that you can settle in, shower, and clean yourself up for dinner.

If you haven’t booked your stay ahead of time, plan on arriving no later than 5 pm, or else they may not be able to accommodate you for dinner.

Hiking boots are not allowed in refuges so upon arrival, you’ll remove your hiking boots in the boot room and switch to sandals. If you don’t want to pack sandals, crocs are provided by refuges.

Half Board vs Dorm Only

Many of the bigger refuges give you the option of paying for half board, dinner, and dorm, or dorm only. Half board is the most typical choice and includes dinner, a bed, and breakfast.

If you’re the type of person who doesn’t need breakfast, going with the dinner and dorm option is a nice option so you can save a little bit of money. If I’d been staying at refuges the whole trip, I would’ve chosen to do this.

If perhaps you’re trying to save money and are hauling your food, paying for just the room is an option.

No matter which board option you go with, you can choose to pay for a take-away lunch for the next day, just make sure you request it the night before.

Espresso/Alcohol Isn’t Included

This isn’t crucial knowledge but I sorta wish I had known this about espresso ahead of time.

While an unlimited supply of coffee and cream is provided with breakfast (assuming you opt for breakfast) at refuges, espresso, which is of course the local specialty, is not included. Each morning we paid for the espresso separately as did many other guests.

You may have already assumed that alcohol isn’t included in which case you’d be correct. Beer and wine are always available but they are not included in dinner. They are added to your tab and paid for separately.

Cost of Refuges

Refuges are pricey as I mentioned previously. Refuge prices can vary greatly depending on the type of refuge you’re staying at. Some refuges offer private rooms, semi-private dorms, and traditional dorm-style rooms. There’s also the option of dinner or no dinner and breakfast or no breakfast as I mentioned before. Depending on which room you choose/are available will greatly affect the cost.

For example, this is what a typical rate sheet looks like when you look at each refuge’s info online:

Half board (dinner and breakfast): – € 43 in dormitory – € 57.50 in twin room Overnight stay (no dinner or breakfast): – € 21 in dormitory – € 36.50 in a twin room – € 9.50 for breakfast Packed lunches are available to purchase: € 9.50

In addition, some refuges charge less for kids, but not all.

On average, half board in refuges cost 50 Euros per person per night and in Switzerland, they cost around 20 Euros more.

When you go to book your actual refuges, the rates will be shown on the TMB website (see next section).

Booking Refuges

If you’re doing a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trek in the high season of July or August, you’ll need to book your refuge around 6 months in advance. Yep, seriously. Thousands of people hike this every year primarily between July and August which means with only a limited amount of available beds in each refuge, you’re going to want to make sure you secure your reservations ahead of time.

To book refuges, the best place to go is 1) the guidebook as I mentioned at the bottom of this post, or 2) the Tour du Mont Blanc website.

The TMB website gives good, basic information on each accommodation including rates, and contact info to make reservations. Click here to start making bookings.

The entire TMB website helps plan your TMB trek but only if you’re staying on huts. There’s an interactive map that shows where each refuge is. We didn’t use the website because we were camping and it doesn’t give any information on camping spots.

How Long Does it Take to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

• 9-11 days: Leisurely hiking – Most popular option
• 6-8 days: Fastpacking
• 4-5 days: Nearly running

The traditional and most popular way of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc is in 9-11 days. Since the Tour du Mont Blanc is made up of 11 stages, doing 1, or just a little more than 1 stage per day requires a very leisurely pace, little challenge, and a lot of time spent relaxing in refuges or campgrounds.

Realistically, more experienced hikers would rather take on more mileage in a day and would be the kind of people who would rather Fastpack like we did.

Fastpacking is ideal for people who regularly tackle strenuous 12+ mile day hikes and are carrying just a light pack. It is a bit more challenging to pack fast if you go with the self-sufficient approach of camping. Get more details on this with our Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc Guide.

If you’re interested in doing the trek in 6-8 days, see our guide on How to Fastpack the Tour du Mont Blanc .

If You Don’t Have Time to Hike it All

Opting for intermittent public transportation allows you to leisurely explore the TMB while discovering its highlights.

We met several people who did this and were only hiking some stages of the TMB due to time limits on their trip.

Another popular option that could easily choose is to just do half of the Tour by starting in Chamonix and finishing in Courmayeur (or vice versa). If you do choose this option, I recommend prioritizing the France/Italy side as opposed to the Swiss side.

The final option if you’re crunched on time is to just do day hikes from Chamonix or Courmayeur and there is a cable car, The Aiguille du Midi, that takes you over the mountain from Chamonix to Courmayeur (or vice versa).

Clockwise vs Counter Clockwise

When planning your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure, it feels like a huge decision on whether you should go clockwise or anti-clockwise but first let me reassure you, you can’t go wrong with either option. In fact you should probably do it one time in each direction, it’s that amazing.

Hiking the TMB anti-clockwise aligns with the popular route, ensuring encounters with fellow hikers, a potential positive or negative experience.

Hiking Tour du Mont Blanc clockwise offers solitude initially, with Champex as the starting point, bypassing challenging ascents.

Hiked Tour du Mont Blanc, and might try the opposite direction. Loved the trek, keen to see Val Ferret and Val Veni from a new angle.

Will you be alone on the Tour Du Mont Blanc?

No. Besides the fact that thousands of people hike the Tour du Mont Blanc every summer, many sections are also hiked as day hikes from many different starting points.

Having a semi-crowded trail provides some inspiration and healthy peer pressure to keep moving and it also makes you feel like you are part of something bigger when you are hiking it.

Consider this: Civilization is nearby, but some remote areas may necessitate mountain rescue in case of emergencies. Thus, getting travel insurance is strongly advised.

Are There Cities Along the Tour du Mont Blanc?

Yes. The TMB goes through populated areas and there are refuges along the way, but if you choose to camp it is very important that you read this blog because finding ample food along the way was a challenge for us despite affirmations from others that it’s super easy to find food on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

If you are following the traditional 11-day route and reserve your refugios and hotels as outlined in Overview of the Stages of the TMB , you will not have trouble finding food, entertainment, and a hot shower along the way.

How Hard is the Tour du Mont Blanc?

The Tour du Mont Blanc is rated as difficult and demanding. You should not underestimate the effort it takes to do this hike of a lifetime.

With that being said, there are many ways to make it easier, whether bypassing some strenuous sections or taking cable cars to minimize the impact of the steep downhills.

Not all effort can be avoided, however, and if too many challenges are avoided, then you’d miss out on the true goal of taking on this quest.

Technically speaking, there are a few sheer cliffs, some ladders (that can be avoided), and exposure that under ideal circumstances are perfectly safe. But in the Alps, normal doesn’t exist and the only certainty is uncertainty.

Weather patterns change quickly and there are remote sections that would require a mountain rescue. Not to scare you out of doing it, but rather to encourage you to be smart about it. It’s very cheap to travel with travel insurance from World Nomads and then you can hike knowing that if something were to go wrong, you’d be covered.

To prove to yourself what you are you are capable of and then experience the pride, joy, and exhilaration of achievement that soaks into your soul and will prove to be some of your happiest moments in life.

Best Time to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

Summer, with ample daylight and mild temperatures, is perfect for TMB hikes. June start might encounter snow, requiring crampons.

By July, just patches of snow remained. In August, only the majestic glaciers and clouds atop the peaks were white. Rain seemed most frequent in August, but in an era of climate change, anything feels possible when you travel frequently.

September is a great time to do the TMB as it is less crowded and temperatures are still warm enough for a pleasant hike. Supposedly it’s also drier weather in September than in August.

Most refuges close up by the end of September so hiking in October might require some creativity of fastpacking or camping and there is a good chance of snowfall. If you are flexible, tenacious, and want more solitude, this might be a good time for you.

The Ultra Tour du Mont Blanc

This is a good time to note that there is a huge race along the Tour du Mont Blanc route that takes place at the end of August each year, also known as the UTMB.

The UTMB is an ultra-marathon race that follows the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking route. Top runners can finish the entire 100 miles in less than one day. Crazy, huh?!

Hiking alongside the racers unexpectedly was worrying at first, but it turned out to be an amazing experience!

During the Tour du Mont Blanc, we hiked alongside runners for half a day, maintaining a respectful distance to avoid disrupting their race. Surprisingly, we matched their uphill pace, feeling invigorated by the energy of such an impressive athletic event. Timing our trek with the UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) wasn’t a significant issue. Many hikers avoid this period, assuming it’s crowded. However, in late August, the trail was surprisingly quiet, perhaps due to this misconception.

Weather on the Tour du Mont Blanc

A big reason we ended up fastpacking the TMB was due to the weather. We were constantly trying to time our mountain pass crossings on sunny days.

Plus, each day you’ll be going over mountain passes at much higher elevations than Chamonix and Courmayeur so expect days to feel hotter and nights cooler at the passes or Refugios.

Temperature: June and September average a high in the mid-sixties and a low in the mid-fifties, while July and August average a high of seventy and a low of sixty.

Rainfall: Summer averages 90 mm of rainfall but July typically has the least rain.

How Fit Do You Need To Be To Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

The Tour du Mont Blanc is hard, there’s no doubt about that. But if you are an avid hiker, you shouldn’t have any problem.

You can also check out my blog How To Train For A Strenuous Hike for some tips to make sure you are fully prepared.

If you aren’t an avid hiker but have the desire to take on this incredible journey, set up a free consult with Victor ([email protected]) and he can get you set up on a program to make sure you are in your best conditioning for this once in a lifetime experience.

Things to Consider before taking on the TMB

• Weather is unpredictable.  Build a flex day into your schedule.
• Maximize your time in the TMB area.  We spent 2 days in Copenhagen on the way in and 2 more in Paris on the way out.  I wish I hadn’t.  If I had known how amazing the towns along the TMB were, I would have flown directly here and spent more time enjoying Chamonix, Courmayeur, and Champex.
• Siesta is a thing. Many businesses close from about 1-4 p.m. and some even longer than this.
• While there are places to get supplies, it takes up quite a bit of time and isn’t as easy as I thought it would be.
• Reserve your huts way in advance.

TMB Guidebook and Map

If you are seriously contemplating the TMB, you’ll want a copy of the Cicerone Guidebook.  I normally don’t use guidebooks I dragged my feet on getting the Tour du Mont Blanc guidebook, but when I finally got the book I was so glad I did. It is a crucial part of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc on your own.

While I’ve provided you with a lot of information and these blogs will help tremendously with your planning, I loved that I could stop along the trail and see how much further I had to go or to double check that I was on the right path.

The book contains very little information on camping opportunities ( which is why we wrote a whole blog on it ) but contains good info on refugees and contact info to make bookings.

You could get this map too but I honestly didn’t need it for the TMB.  If you plan on doing hikes in the area around Chamonix, then definitely grab it.

What to Pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Every ounce counts on the TMB and that’s why we’ve put together a complete list of everything you need to pack, and everything you shouldn’t pay for for the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Click here to see the pack list.

Overview of the Stages of the Tour Du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a challenging hike with steep ascents and descents. It typically involves climbing around 3,000 feet and then descending the same amount daily. Fastpacking, where two passes are covered in a day, is quite intense and not recommended for most.

The estimated times for hiking provided by Cicerone’s guide were fairly accurate for uphill climbs, but we often took longer to appreciate the scenery. Expect these times as actual hiking durations and allocate additional time for scenic breaks or picnics.

Following the suggested stages allows ample time to relish the journey. Most days involve less than 6 hours of hiking, leaving room for a leisurely morning with breakfast, breaks at refuges, and the chance to freshen up before dinner, usually around 6:30 or 7:00 pm.

Additionally, there are options to adhere to this itinerary while using buses or cable cars to bypass certain sections. Details on these shortcuts can be found in the blog ‘How to Fast Pack the TMB’.

Stage 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

Distance: 16 km Elevation Gain: 646 m Elevation Loss: 633 m Time: 5 – 5.5 hrs

Stage 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Distance: 18 km Elevation Gain: 1316 m Elevation Loss: 929 m Time: 7 – 7.5 hrs

Stage 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

Distance: 15 km Elevation Gain: 1004 m Elevation Loss: 258 m Time: 4.5 – 5 hrs

Stage 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

Distance: 18 km Elevation Gain: 460 m Elevation Loss: 1560 m Time: 5 – 5.5 hrs

Stage 5: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Distance: 12 km Elevation Gain: 860 m Elevation Loss: 101 m Time: 4.5 hours

Stage 6: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Distance: 20 km Elevation Gain: 895 m Elevation Loss: 1410 m Time: 6 – 6.5 hrs

Stage 7: La Fouly to Champex

Distance: 15 km Elevation Gain: 420 m Elevation Loss: 565 m Time: 4 – 4.5 hrs

Stage 8: Champex to Col de la Forclaz

Distance: 16 km Elevation Gain: 742 m Elevation Loss: 682 m Time: 4.5 – 5 hrs

Stage 9: Col de la Forclaz to Tré-le-Champ

Distance: 13 km Elevation Gain: 1069 m Elevation Loss: 1178 m Time: 5.5 hrs

Stage 10: Tré-le-Champ to Refuge La Flégère

Distance: 8 km Elevation Gain: 733 m Elevation Loss: 257 m Time: 3.5 – 4 hrs

Stage 11: La Flégère to Les Houches

Distance: 17 km Elevation Gain: 772 m Elevation Loss: 1546 m Time: 6.5 hrs

Tour du Mont Blanc Resources:

• Ultimate Tour du Mont Blanc Pack List
• Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc
• How to Hike the TMB in 7 days: Fastpacking Guide
• 35 Photos to Inspire You to Hike the TMB
• Best Place to Stay in Chamonix Before/After the TMB
• Access our course Fit To Hike
• Get Travel Insurance
• Book Hotels or Airbnbs for your Trip
• Check Skyscanner for Cheap Flights

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Wednesday 1st of November 2023

Easy read and a wealth of information! Thank you so much. Very detailed just like I wanted. All your details are helping me with decisions for our July 2024 trek on the TMB. I’ll check out the links you provided too. Much thanks for your help. Happy you absorbed the TMB experience!

Sunday 26th of March 2023

This blog has been SO HELPFUL!!!! I know it's late in the game but I am trying to plan a trip this August. Unfortunately Rifugio Bonatti is all booked and it looks like there are no other options in that area. So my back up plan is to camp between COURMAYEUR TO LA FOULY. I came across Camping Grandes Jorasses in another blog. Do you think this is the best bet since the Rifugio Bonatti is all booked or should I try to push it from COURMAYEUR TO LA FOULY in one day? I think thats around 20 miles? What are your thoughts?

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

That should work fine. We camped at a campground just a few miles before Bonatii but past Courmayeur (it might have been Jorassses) and it was great for us. I wouldn't push past Bonatti because you don't want to rush the Italy section there since it is so gorgeous. The Switzerland part can be pushed faster imo.

Friday 23rd of December 2022

I'm practically shaking with anticipation for this adventure. I'm going to try to make it there in July of 23.

Saturday 24th of December 2022

It’s so amazing! I hope you get to experience it:)

Atashi Mandal

Monday 26th of July 2021

Very helpful and overall fantastic blog! I am about to embark on the tour and your blog definitely injected even more excitement to get on the trail. Thanks for all the thoughtful details

Tuesday 27th of July 2021

Wonderful to hear! Enjoy the incredible trek!

Monday 19th of April 2021

I have been reading a lot about TMB for next year hike and your article is very clear and precise! It helps me to plan for my trip. Thank you.

Tuesday 20th of April 2021

That is so great to hear! I wish I was hiking the TMB this year...It is so amazing! My mouth is watering thinking about the chocolate croissants and Italian espresso :)

TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOURS

Very limited availability for the 6 & 7 day tour. must be a group of 1 or 2 people and have flexibilty with dates. 10-day tour sold out, tour du mont blanc self-guided hiking tours for 2024, tour du mont blanc self-guided hiking tour overview.

The Tour du Mont Blanc Trek (TMB) is one of the best long-distance hikes in the world!  This classic well-signed 170 km (105.633 miles) long hike takes you around the glacier-covered Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. You’ll hike through the pristine alpine regions of France, Italy, and Switzerland. You’ll climb dramatic mountain passes, hike through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, and pass pristine mountain lakes.

Your efforts will be rewarded each day with delectable local cuisine from each country shared in the company of fellow TMB hikers.

Our Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided tours give you the freedom to hike on your own. But without the time-consuming hassles of booking accommodation in three different languages, planning your route, or trying to look up bus schedules. You also get peace of mind, knowing if something goes wrong on the trail, we’re only a phone call away.

We can also arrange guided tours on request if you already have a small group of hikers and would like the expertise of a local mountain guide. 

Our 10-day tour is sold out. VERY limited availability for the 6 and 7-day tours. Please only book if you can provide at least 3 different alternative start dates and are a group of 2 or less.  

For the 7-day tour only dormitory accommodation with a slightly different itinerary and a few pre-booked dates are available. Contact us for the dates. Going fast! 

 2) provide us with a few different possible start dates.

RESERVE YOUR TMB SELF-GUIDED TOUR NOW

HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOUR

✔ Hike in 3 countries – France, Italy, and Switzerland.

✔ Be wowed by the incredible views of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, from all sides.

✔ Hike one of the most iconic long-distance trekking trails in the world.

✔ Pass through charming mountain villages in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps.

✔ Eat delicious meals with a regional flair from each country.

✔ Hike dramatic mountain passes, meadows filled with wildflowers, and gorgeous alpine lakes.

✔ Choose to stay in mountain huts/mountain refuges on the trail or hotel/ B&Bs in nearby villages.

✔ Add an epic guided Mont Blanc glacier tour or Chamonix Via Ferrata to your adventure

COMPARE: 6, 7 and 10-DAY SELF-GUIDED TOURS

Not sure which tour du mont blanc self-guided hiking tour is right for you, check out our comparison chart below to help you find your perfect tour..

Our 10-day tour is sold out. VERY limited availability for the 6 and 7- day tours. Please only book if you can provide at least 3 different alternative start dates and are a group of 2 or less.  

6-DAY TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED LUXURY TOUR INFO

Our luxury tour is the most luxurious offer we have for the TMB. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer more creature comforts. After hiking, you’ll stay in 3-star accommodations for three nights and have your own private bathroom, and in 2-star accommodations for two nights.

Your 6-day luxury Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided tour starts in Les Houches and finishes in Chamonix. You’ll hike the most scenic parts of the trail for a total of ~ 76 km (47 miles) and skip the less beautiful parts via transfers (buses, lifts, cable cars or private taxis).

Our 6-day luxury self-guided tour is an excellent choice if you want more comfortable accommodation, are new to long-distance trekking, or are short on time. Or simply want to spend a few days eating croissants at cafes in Paris (no judgment here).

You’ll hike ~4 – 6 hours each day w/ 500 m (1640 ft) – 1300 m (4265 ft) of elevation gain. Our Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided tour includes a detailed route description, walking times and a map. We’ll also provide you with a contact number should any emergencies arise during your trip.

Our TMB self-guided trek allows you to experience the freedom of independent hiking without all the headaches of organizing the logistics.

VERY limited availability for the 6-day tour. Please only book if you can provide at least 3 different alternative start dates and are a group of 2 or less.  

Day 1: Les Houches – Bellevue – Col du Tricot – The Les Contamines

Your tour starts at the lift in Les Houches, which you’ll take up to Bellevue (1780 m (5840 ft)).

You’re now at the foot of the route of the regular route to the summit of Mont Blanc and at the starting point of your incredible trek!

Your hike starts with a beautiful crossing that takes you under the glacier of Bionnassay. Then, you’ll climb the alpine pastures to the Col de Tricot (2120 m (6955 ft)). Reward your efforts so far by taking in the panorama of the Contamines-Montjoie Valley before descending a steep path on the rustic chalets of Miage (1559 m (5115 ft)). Finally, you’ll go around Mount Truc (1811 m (5942 ft)) to reach the village of Les Contamines-Montjoie, where you’ll spend the night.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 600 m (1968 ft) ascent, 1200 m (3937 ft) descent, ~ 11 km (6.84 miles).
• Transfers: Lift from Les Houches to Bellvue (2 km (1.24 miles), Cost: €14.30 pp, 10 minutes). If you wish to hike this section and skip the transfer, it’s 4.5 km (2.8 miles), 797 m (2618 ft) ascent and takes ~1.5 hours.
• N.B.: it is possible to shorten this stage by removing the climb to Col du Tricot. You’ll find info on the alternative route in your Travel Pack.

Day 2: Les Contamines-Montjoie – Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge – Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme – Les Chapieux – Bourg St. Maurice

You’ll start the day with a short transfer to Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge (1210 m (3970 ft)) and an optional visit to the famous Baroque church. Then, it’s a progressive hike up to Bonhomme Pass (2329 m (7641 ft)) between the Mont-Blanc and Beaufortain mountain ranges. You continue going up until you reach Col du Bonhomme (2433 m (7690 ft), where a beautiful panorama of Mont-Pourri (3779 m (12398 ft)) is the reward for your efforts.

Then, you’ll hike down through an alpine pasture that leads you to the hamlet of Chapieux. From there, you’ll take a private taxi (included in the price) to your accommodation in Bourg St Maurice.

• Hiking Time: 6 hours, 1300 m (4265 ft) ascent, 950 m (3117 ft) descent, ~ 15 km (9.32 miles).
• Transfer 1: Notre Dame de la Gorge: 3.6 km (2.24 miles).
• Transfer 2: Bourg Saint Maurice 15 km (9.32 miles) (transfer to your accommodation in the village). You’ll do the same transfer the next morning to start hiking again.

Day 3: Bourg Saint Maurice – Col de la Seigne – Val Veny – Courmayeur

You’ll start the day with a private transfer (included in the price) to la Ville des Glaciers (1800 m (5906 ft)) and start hiking from there. But first, you may want to start with a visit to the cheese farm to discover how the famous Beaufort cheese is made. Then, you’ll hike up to an alpine pasture to La Seigne Pass (2516 m (8255 ft)).

You’ve now reached the Italian border. It’s a stunning viewpoint with views of legendary summits like Mont-Blanc of Courmayeur, Noire de Peuterey, and Grandes Jorasses. They all seem so close!

Then, you’ll hike down to the Val Veny at the end of the Miage Glacier. It’s a short transfer by local bus to Courmayeur (1226 m (4022 ft)), the capital of the Italian Alps, where you’ll be spending the night.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 750 m (2460 ft) ascent, 900 m (2953 ft) descent, ~ 13.5 km (8.39 miles).
• Transfer 1: Bourg Saint Maurice – La Ville des Glaciers: 19 km (11.81 miles).
• Transfer 2: To Courmayeur: 7 km (4.35 miles).

Day 4: Courmayeur – Grand Col Ferret – Ferret or La Fouly – Champex

Courmayeur to the end of the Val Ferret. You’ll begin the hike at the end of the Pré-de-Bar Glacier and Mont Dolent (3823 m (12543 ft)) and hike until you reach Elena Hut (2052 m (6732 ft)).

Then, you’ll continue hiking in the direction of the Grand Ferret Pass (2 57 m (843 ft)), the border pass between Italy and Switzerland. Take one last look at the Val Ferret before you hike down through the picturesque Swiss mountain pasture to reach the hamlet of Ferret (1 740 m (5709 ft)). Then you’ll take a short transfer on a local bus to the village of Champex and its charming lake where you can cool off with a swim.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 800 m (2625 ft) ascent, 850 m (2789 ft) descent, ~ 12 km (7.47 miles).
• Transfer 1: To Arnuvaz: 13 km (8.08 miles).
• Transfer 2: To Champex: 19 km (11.81 miles).

Day 5: Champex to l’Argentière

From Champex, you’re going to discover the famous Swiss mountain pastures and the cows that produce some of the most famous cheese in the Alps! From Bovines, the view of the valley of the Rhônes and of the Swiss Valais is amazing.

There’s also an option for a longer and harder hike to the Fenêtre d’Arpette (2665 m (8743 ft)), a splendid pass that’s one of the highlights of the trip. Note: this option should only be done in good weather conditions. Your hike finishes in the village of Trient (1280 m (4199 ft)). From there, you’ll take a private transfer to l’Argentière. You’re now back in France.

• Hiking Time: Bovines Route: 5:30 hours, 700 m (2296 ft) ascent, 800 m (2625 ft) descent OR Arpette Window: 8 hours, 1200 m (3937 ft) ascent, 1400 m (4593 ft) descent, ~ 14 km (8.7 miles).
• Transfers To l’Argentière: 15 km (9.32 miles) or 10 km (6.21 miles) by foot.

Day 6: l’Argentière – Tré-le-Champ – lacs Chéserys – Lac Blanc – La Flégère – Chamonix

You’re in for a treat on your final day. This hike in the Aiguilles-Rouges Massif in front of Mont Blanc provides spectacular viewpoints of glaciers and summits. From Montets Pass (1461 m (4793 ft)), you’ll follow a balcony trail to Chéserys Lake. It’s famous for its reflection of Mont Blanc!

You’ll continue to the beautiful Blanc Lake (2352 m (7717 ft)), then hike down to La Flégère (1877 m (6158 ft)). You can either take the Lift Les Praz de Chamonix or hike down to Chamonix. It’s your choice. Your hike finishes at the train station in Chamonix.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 950 m (3117 ft) ascend, 650 m (2133 ft) descent, ~ 10 / 11 km (6.21/6.84 miles).
• Transfers: Argentière – Col des montets (10 min, 3 km (1.86 miles)), Lift of la flégère (cable car) 30 min, Bus Praz de Chamonix to Chamonix (5min, 3 km (1.86 miles)).

COST OF THE 6-DAY LUXURY TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR:

€1679 Single supplement of €860 pp since accommodations charge for a double room and most don’t have single rooms.

30% is due at the time of booking. You can see the booking terms and conditions here .

We’re proud to partner with THE best local hiking company, Nuyama, located in Chamonix, France, to bring you an incredible TMB trip.

They’ll answer all your questions and you’ll book your trip with them, through their secure booking system and they’ll handle all your tour logistics, trip details, and even meet with you in Chamonix for an in-person briefing before the start of your tour!

You’ll have locals and some of the most knowledgeable people about the TMB on the ground planning your epic tour. This ensures that more of your money benefits the local community where you’ll be hiking. But of course, I’m here to help if you need anything. 

Optional Extras: Take a rest day in Courmayeur (~ 1/2 way) (€115 per person, minimum two people) to recover or do our epic 1/2 day guided Mont Blanc Glacier Tour .

And for a truly epic finish to your Tour du Mont Blanc Hike, do one of our Mont Blanc Glacier Tours , or check out our guided Via Ferrata near Chamonix, which combines hiking and rock climbing for an adrenaline-packed adventure under the supervision of a guide so you’ll be safe.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

✔ 5 nights of accommodation (3 nights in three-star accommodation with a private bathroom and 2 nights in two-star superior accommodation with a shared bathroom) ✔ 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners (dinner in Bourg St Maurice,  Courmayeur and Argentière are not included). Restaurants nearby. Luggage transfer (limit one bag per person 15 kg/33 lbs) ✔ Transfer to and from Bourg St Maurice on days 2 and 3 and from Trient to Argentière on day 5 ✔ In-person pre-tour briefing in Chamonix for Mon-Sat departures ✔ Detailed route description, walking times, and map ✔ Unlimited email support pre-tour Tour du Mont Blanc Toolkit (useful resource) ✔ 24/7 phone support while on your tour in case of emergency

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Travel insurance that covers you for this tour and includes pandemic, emergency evacuation and hospital care in the unlikely incident that you get injured. HeyMondo insurance covers this, which is why we recommend it. Plus, you’ll get a 5% discount for being a Monkeys and Mountains reader.
• Transfers, ~ €70 pp. We provide you with the information, but they’re not included in the price except for the transfers to Bourg St Maurice, as indicated above. If you book the tour in June or September, you may have to take a taxi, which is more expensive than public transportation.
• Dinner on days 2, 3 and 5 in Bourg St Maurice Courmayeur and l’Argentière, but there are restaurants nearby.
• Lunches – but they can be ordered for the next day at mountain huts or hotels for an additional fee.
• Snacks and personal items.
• Accommodation on the last day of your trip.
• Optional rest day in Courmayeur. Stay at a B&B for an additional cost of €115 per person. It does not include dinner, but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from nearby.
• Anything not indicated above.

Note: All times, distances and elevations are approximate. The route may vary slightly depending on whether you’ve chosen dormitory or private accommodation in a and on availability.

On some sections, you have a choice of an easier or more difficult route. You’ll find all this information in your Travel Pack that you’ll receive before your tour. The times indicated above don’t include breaks. Allow more time than you think you’ll need.

Please carefully check the difference in elevation gains and times to make sure you have the ability to do this tour. It’s not technical, but it does require a good degree of fitness.

In June and into July, there will still be snow in some sections and again in September, so please ensure that you’re comfortable hiking in the snow if you book your tour at these times.

Contact us before booking if you have any doubts or questions. 

  RESERVE YOUR TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR NOW

7-DAY TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR INFO

For the 7-day tour only dormitory accommodation with a slightly different itinerary . Please only book if you can provide at least 3 different alternative start dates and are a group of 2 or less.  

The best of the Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided hiking tour starts in Les Houches and finishes in Chamonix. You’ll hike the most scenic parts of the trail and skip the less beautiful parts via transfers for a total of ~ 92 km (57 miles).

This is the second easiest of our TMB hiking tours. The easiest is the 6-day tour, but only because it’s one day shorter.

Our 7-day self-guided tour is an excellent choice if you’re new to long-distance trekking, are short on time, or simply want to spend a few days eating croissants at cafes in Paris (no judgment here).

You’ll hike ~4 to 6 hours each day w/ 500 m (1640 ft) – 1300 m (4265 ft) of elevation gain. Our Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided tour includes a detailed route description, walking times and a map.

Plus, you get an in-person briefing in Chamonix to ask any last-minute questions you have and to get the latest trail updates.

This allows you to experience the freedom of independent hiking without all the headaches of organizing the logistics.

Your 7-day Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided tour starts at the lift in Les Houches, which you’ll take up to Bellevue (1780 m (5840 ft)).

You’re now at the foot of the route of the regular route to the summit of the Mont-Blanc and at the starting point of your incredible trek!

Your hike starts with a beautiful crossing that takes you under the glacier of Bionnassay. Then, you’ll climb the alpine pastures to the Col du Tricot (2120 m (6955 ft)).

Reward your efforts so far by taking in the panorama of the Contamines-Montjoie Valley before descending a steep path on the rustic chalets of Miage (1559 m (5115 ft)). Finally, you’ll go around Mount Truc (1811 m (5942 ft)) to reach the village of Les Contamines-Montjoie, where you’ll spend the night.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 600 m ascent, 1200 m descent, ~ 11 km (6.84 miles).
• Transfers: Lift from Les Houches to Bellvue (2 km (1.24 miles), Cost: €14.30 pp, 10 minutes). If you wish to hike this section and skip the transfer, it’s 4.5 km (2.8 miles), 797 m ascent and takes ~1.5 hours.
• N.B.: it is possible to shorten this stage by removing the climb to Col du Tricot. You’ll find info on the alternate route in your Travel Pack.

Day 2: Les Contamines-Montjoie – Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge – Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme – Bourg-Saint-Maurice

You’ll start the second morning with a short transfer to Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge (1210 m (3970 ft)) and a visit to a famous baroque church. The progressive climb to the pass of Bonhomme (2329 m (7641 ft)) gives you a superb view of the Mont Blanc massif.

The climb continues to the Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme (2433 m (7982 ft)), and a magnificent panorama on Mount Pourri (3779 m (12398 ft)) rewards your efforts.

Then you’ll descend into alpine pastures in the hamlet of Les Chapieux (1549 m (5082 ft)) and from there, take a transfer to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, where you’ll spend the night.  

• Transfers: * Bus (3.7 km (2.3 miles), optional).

Day 3: Les Chapieux – Col de la Seigne – Val Veny – Courmayeur

You’ll make your way to the Ville des Glaciers (1800 m (5906 ft)), where you’ll want to stop at a farm to discover the production of the famed Beaufort cheese and naturally stock up. Then you’ll climb in the beautiful alpine pastures of the Col de la Seigne (2516 m (8255 ft)) to the Italian border. From this point of view, the slopes of the Mont Blanc massif are splendid!

Then you’ll descend into the Valle Veny at the foot of the Miage Glacier and its pastoral lake, where you’ll find unique alpine flora. You’ll cap off the day with a short transfer to the bottom of the Val Ferret (2052 m (6732 ft)).

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 750 m (2461 ft) ascent, 900 m (2953 ft) descent ~ 13.5 km (8.08 miles).

Day 4: Courmayeur – Grand Col Ferret – Champex

This shorter day is an opportunity to let your weary muscles recover. After an unforgettable night at the foot of the Pre-de-Bar suspended glacier and the Dolent mountain (3823 m (12543 ft)), you’ll drive in the direction of the Ferret Pass 2537 m  or (8323 ft), the border between Italy and Switzerland.

Take a last look at the Italian Val Ferret as you climb mountain pastures to reach the hamlet of La Fouly. You’ll take a bus to the village of Champex and its charming little lake. Are you ready for a refreshing dip?

• Hiking Time: 4 hours, 500 m (1640 ft) ascent, 900 m (2953 ft) descent for dormitory accommodation OR 4:30 hours, 800 m (2625 ft) ascent, 850 descent for private accommodation, ~ 12.5 km (7.77 miles).
• Transfers: Bus from Courmayeur to Arnouvaz in the morning (13 km (8.08 miles)) and then from La Fouly to Champex (19 km (11.8 miles)).
• Note: it’s possible to extend this step by hiking to the village of La Fouly.

Day 5: Champex – Les Bovines (option: fenêtre d’Arpette (Arpette Window) – Trient

If you have stayed in La Fouly, take a bus to the village of Chamex and its charming little lake

You’ve been discovering the Swiss mountain pastures and their cows that produce some of the most renowned cheeses from the Alps, so it should come as no surprise that the regular route is called the Bovine Route.

It offers fantastic views of the Rhone Valley and the Valais Mountains. We highly recommend this route in the early season and when the weather is bad.

If you’re seeking more of a challenge, Arpette Window (2665 m (8743 ft)) is a more technical route. You should only take this route in good weather and when there’s no snow. The day ends at the village of Trient (1280 m (4199 ft)).

• Hiking Time: Bovines Route: 5:30 hours, 700 m (2297 ft) ascent, 800 m (2625 ft) descent OR Arpette Window: 8 hours, 1200 m (3937 ft) ascent, 1400 m (4593 ft) descent, ~ 14 km (8.7 miles)

Day 6: Trient – Col de La Balme – Le Tour – Montroc – Tré-le-Champ (Dormitory) or Argentière (Private)

From Trient, you’ll head back to the French border, the Col de Balme (2191 m (7188 ft)). Here you get a fantastic view of Chamonix Valley and one of the most beautiful panoramas on the summit of Mont Blanc, the Sea of Ice and the glacier of Argentiere!

You have the option of descending by foot or taking the lift (1453 m (4767 ft)). Then walk to Montroc (1370 m (4495 ft)) and Tré-le-Champ.

• Hiking Time: Dormitory accommodation: 5 hours, 900 m (2953 ft) ascent, 750 m (2461 ft) descent, ~ 10 km (6.21 miles). Private accommodation: 5:30 hours to the hotel in Argentière. It is possible to take a lift down Col de Balme and a bus from Le Tour to Argentière (for private accommodation only).

Day 7: Tré-le-Champ (Dormitory) or Argentière (Private) – lacs Chéserys – Lac Blanc – La Flégère – Chamonix

This is one of the best days of the Mont-Blanc massif. The trail takes you across Les Aiguilles Rouges (a nature reserve) in front of the glaciers and the great summits of the Mont-Blanc range; Aiguille Verte, Mer de Glace, north face of Grandes Jorasses, and of course Mont-Blanc itself.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours, 950 m (3117 ft) ascend, 650 m (2133 ft) descent, ~ 11 km (6.84 miles).

Congratulations! You’ve now completed the Tour du Mont Blanc!

Cost of the 7-day tour du mont blanc self-guided tour and inclusions.

Both options include 6 breakfasts and 5 dinners. For dormitory-style accommodation, we include 1 night in a private room in Courmayeur at no extra cost.

€1119 per person for dormitory-style accommodation Please only book if you can provide at least 3 different alternative start dates and are a group of 2 or less.  

€1499 for private double accommodation (mixture of mountain refuges/guest houses/hotels), a combination of both on the trail and in nearby villages, depending on availability SOLD OUT

For dormitory-style accommodation, we include one night in a private room in Courmayeur at no extra cost.

A single supplement will be charged if you choose private double accommodation since accommodations charge for a double room, and most don’t have single rooms. This is calculated at the checkout.

And for a truly epic finish to your Tour du Mont Blanc, do one of our Mont Blanc Glacier Tours , or check out our guided Via Ferrata near Chamonix, which combines hiking and rock climbing for an adrenaline-packed adventure under the supervision of a guide so you’ll be safe.

✔ 6 nights accommodation in either dormitory-style or in private double rooms ✔6 breakfasts and 5 dinners (dormitory) and 6 breakfasts and 4 dinners (private double accommodation). Restaurants nearby ✔1 night in private accommodation in Courmayeur (for dormitory bookings) ✔In-person pre-tour briefing in Chamonix for Mon-Sat departures ✔Detailed route description, walking times, and map ✔Unlimited email support pre-tour ✔Tour du Mont Blanc Toolkit (useful resource) ✔24/7 phone support while on your tour in case of emergency

• Transfers. This tour requires transfers as indicated above (lifts, shuttle buses or taxis). We provide you with the information, but they’re not included in the price. Plan ~€50 per person, but it will likely be €20 – 30. Note: some of the lifts and buses only run in July and August. If you book the tour in June or September, you may have to take a private taxi, which is more expensive than public transportation.
• Dinner on day 3, and dinner on day 6 for the private double accommodations) but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from nearby.
• Luggage transfer is available. We transport your luggage each day, and it will be taken to your next accommodation. Bag transfers are limited to one case/bag per person weighing up to 15 kg (33lbs) per bag. It costs €225 for the 7-day tour. Insider TMB Tip: If you’re a group of 2 people, you can save € by just having one bag transported.
• Optional rest day in Courmayeur. Stay at a B&B for an additional cost of €115 per person (this doesn’t include dinner, but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from nearby).

Note: All times, distances and elevations are approximate. The route may vary slightly depending on whether you’ve chosen dormitory or private accommodation and on availability. On some sections, you have a choice of an easier or more difficult route.

You’ll find all this information in your Travel Pack that you’ll receive before your tour. The times indicated above don’t include breaks. Allow more time than you think you’ll need. 

In June and into July, there will still be snow in some sections and again in September, so please ensure that you’re comfortable hiking in snow if you book your tour at these times.

10-DAY TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR INFO

Our 10-day tour is sold out for 2024!

Your 10-day Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided tour starts in Chamonix and finishes in Chamonix. It’s more challenging than the 6 and 7-day trips as you’re hiking more, ~130 km (81 miles) and taking fewer transfers.

It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking a challenge but at a more relaxed pace. Several transfers are required. You’ll hike ~5 to 6 hours most days w/ 400 m (1312 ft) – 1050 m (3445 ft) of elevation gain each day. Our self-guided tour includes a detailed route description, walking times, a map and all your accommodation.

This allows you to experience the freedom of independent hiking without the time-consuming headaches of organizing the logistics.

Day 1: Chamonix – Brevent – Les Houches

Your tour starts in Chamonix with a lift. You’re now at the foot of the route of the regular route to the summit of the Mont-Blanc and at the starting point of your incredible trek!

You’ll hike to Brevent Pass and Brevent Summit (2525 m (8284 ft)). Here you’ll get amazing views of Mont Blanc and its glaciers. Then you’ll hike down to Bellachat Hut, where you take a break before climbing up to Aiguillette des Houches, then descending down to Houches.

• Hiking Time: 6 hours, 600 m (1969 ft) ascent, 1670 m (5479 ft) descent, ~ 6 km (3.73 miles).
• Transfers: Gondola lift from Chamonix to Plan Praz (2000 m (6562 ft)). (Cost: €24.50 pp).

Day 2: Les Houches – Les Contamines Monjoie

You’ll start the day by taking a lift from Les Houches to Bellvue. Here you’ll start hiking at a beautiful crossing that takes you under the glacier of Bionnassay from a Nepali hanging bridge.

Then, you’ll climb the alpine pastures to the Col du Tricot (2120 m (6955 ft)). Reward your efforts so far by taking in the panorama of the Contamines-Montjoie Valley – you’re really doing this – before descending a steep path on the rustic chalets of Miage (1559 m (5115 ft)).

Finally, you’ll go around Mount Truc (1811 m (5942 ft)) to reach the village of Les Contamines-Montjoie, where you’ll spend the night.

• Hiking Time: 5- 6 hours, 600 m (1969 ft) ascent, 1200 m (3937 ft) descent.
• Transfers: Lift from Les Houches to Bellvue (2 km (1.24 miles), Cost: €14.30 pp, 10 minutes). For hikers wishing to hike this section and skip the transfer, it’s 4.5 km (2.8 miles), 797 m (2615 ft) ascent and takes ~1.5 hours.

Day 3: Les Contamines-Montjoie – Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge – Col de la Croix du Bonhomme – Les Chapieux – Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Today is a long day, but you’ll get great views. You’ll start the day with a short transfer to Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge (1210 m (3970 ft)), where you have the option of visiting a famous Baroque church.

Then it’s a progressive hike up to Bonhomme Pass (2329 m (7641 ft)) between the Mont-Blanc and Beaufortain massifs. The trail continues up to Croix-du-Bonhomme Pass (2433 m (7982 ft)), where the beautiful panorama of Mont Pourri (3779 m (12398 ft)) awaits. The descent leads you through an alpine pasture to the hamlet of Chapieux.

• Hiking Time: 7 hours, 1300 m (4265 ft) ascent, 950 m (3117 ft) descent.

Day 4: Bourg-Saint-Maurice – Les Chapieux or La Ville des Glaciers – Col de la Seigne – Val Veny – Courmayeur

You’ll start hiking at the Ville des Glaciers (1800 m (5906 ft)), where you can visit a cheese farm to discover the famed Beaufort cheese for yourself. That’s one of the great things about hiking, you get to reward yourself with treats like yummy cheese!

Then you’ll hike up to the alpine pasture to La Seigne Pass (2516 m (8255 ft)) to reach the Italian border for an amazing view of legendary Mont Blanc summits like Mont-Blanc of Courmayeur, Noire de Peuterey, and Grandes Jorasses. Then you’ll hike down in the Val Veny to the end of Miage Glacier before taking a short transfer to Courmayeur (1226 m (4022 ft)), the adventure capital of the Italian Alps.

• Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours, 750 m (2461 ft) ascent, 860 m (2822 ft) descent, ~ 15 km (10.56 miles) + 5 km (3.1 miles) if the lift (optional) is closed in June and September.

Day 5: Courmayeur – Refuge Bertone – Mont de la Saxe – Courmayeur

Walk up to the Bertone Hut (2000 m (6562 ft)) to discover one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Tour du Mont Blanc on the famous Grandes Jorasses. The balcony path leads you near the Bonatti Hut (2025 m (6644 ft)). You can take a short detour there if you want to stop there.

After your hike, you’ll go down to Val Ferret and take a local bus to Courmayeur, where you’ll spend the night.

• Hiking Time: 6 hours, 1000 m (3281 ft) ascent, 590 m (1936 ft) descent, ~ 14 km (8.7 miles).

Day 6: Courmayeur – Arnouva – Grand Col Ferret – La Fouly

In the morning, before your hike, you’ll take a local bus to the end of the Val Ferret, to Arnouva. From Arnouva, you’ll start hiking up to the Grand Col Ferret Pass (2537 m (8323 ft)) to enter Switzerland. You’ll finish off with a walk down to the hamlet of La Fouly.

• Hiking Time: 5 -6 hours, 820 m (2691 ft) ascent, 990 m (3248 ft) descent, ~ 15 km (9.3 miles).

Day 7: La Fouly – Val Ferret Suisse – Champex

This short day gives you time to rest near the lake of Champex. From La Fouly, an easy walk leads you to the village of Praz le Fort. (1151 m (3776 ft)). The path follows the river of Ferret to the hamlet of Issert. Then you’ll hike up to the beautiful lake of Champex (1477 m (4846 ft)). Ready for a refreshing dip?

Hiking Time: 3 hours, 400 m (1312 ft) ascent, 100 m (328 ft) descent, ~ 14 (8.7) to 15 km (9.32 miles).

Day 8: Champex – Arpette window (optional: The Bovines) – Trient a Fouly – Val Ferret Suisse – Champex

You’ve been discovering Swiss mountain pastures famous for the cows that produce some of the best cheeses in the Alps. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the regular way is called the Bovine Route. It offers fantastic views of the Rhone Valley and the Valais Mountains. We highly recommend this option in the early season and in inclement weather. If you’re seeking more of a challenge, Arpette Window (2665 m (8743 ft)) is a more technical route. You should only take this way in good weather and when there’s no snow. The day ends at the village of Trient (1280 m (4199 ft)). Hiking Time: 5:30 – 6:00 hours, 700 m (2297 ft) ascent, 800 m (2624 ft) descent (The Bovines route) OR 8 hours, 1200 m (3937 ft) ascent, 1400 m (4593 ft) descent (Arpette Window), ~ 14 (8.7) to 15 km (9.32 miles).

Day 9: Trient – Col de La Balme – Argentière

From Trient, you’ll hike up to the French border at the Balme Pass (2191 m (7188 ft)). Here you’ll get one of the best panoramas of Mont Blanc Summit and Chamonix Valley. Then you’ll either hike down to Le Tour (1453 m (4767 ft)) or take a lift, your choice. You’re almost there; it’s just a bit further to reach Montroc (1370 m (4495 ft)) and the village of Argentière. Hiking Time: 5 hours, 900 m (2953 ft) ascent, 750 m (2461 ft) descent, 15 km (9.32 miles) (dormitory). 5:30 hours to the hotel in Argentière (private accommodation). It’s possible to take a lift down Col de Balme and a bus from Le Tour to Argentière (private accommodation only).

Day 10: Argentière – Chèserys Lake – Lake Blanc – Chamonix

You’re in for a real treat on your last day. This hike in the massif of the Aiguilles-Rouges is n front of the Mont Blanc Summit. It offers a spectacular view of glaciers and summits. From the Montets pass (1461 m (4793 ft)), you follow a balcony trail to Chéserys Lake, which reflects the most famous mountain in the Alps! You’ll continue to the beautiful Lake Blanc (2352 m (7717 ft)). Then you’ll hike down to La Flégère (1877 m (6158 ft)) to reach the Lift Les Praz de Chamonix.

Hiking Time: 5 hours, 950 m (3117 ft) ascent, 650 m (2133 ft) descent, ~ 10 (6.21) to 11 km (6.84 miles).

Congratulations, you’ve now completed the epic Tour du Mont Blanc! You’ve earned your bragging rights.

Cost of the 10-day tour du mont blanc self-guided tour and inclusions.

Includes ten breakfasts and eight dinners. For dormitory-style accommodation, we include 1 night in a private room in Courmayeur at no extra cost.

€1539 per person for dormitory-style accommodation SOLD OUT!

€1929 per person for private double accommodation (mountain refuges/guest houses/hotels), a combination of both on the trail and in nearby villages, depending on availability. SOLD OUT!

For dormitory-style accommodation, we include 1 night in a private room in Courmayeur at no extra cost.

✔ 9 nights accommodation in either dormitory-style or in private double rooms ✔ 9 breakfasts and 8 dinners (not included in Courmayeur) (dormitory) and 9 breakfasts and 7 dinners (private double accommodation). Restaurants are nearby. ✔ 1 night in private accommodation in Courmayeur (for dormitory bookings) ✔ In-person pre-tour briefing in Chamonix for Mon-Sat departures ✔ Detailed route description, walking times, and map ✔ Unlimited email support pre-tour ✔ Tour du Mont Blanc Toolkit (useful resource) ✔ 24/7 phone support while on your tour in case of emergency

• Transfers. This tour requires transfers as indicated above (lifts, buses or taxis). We provide you with the information, but they’re not included in the price. Plan ~ €50 per person, but it will likely be €20 – 30. Note: some of the lifts and buses only run in July and August. If you book the tour in June or September, you may have to take a taxi, which is more expensive than public transportation.
• Dinner on day 4 and on Day 9 (private double tour only), but there are restaurants to choose from nearby.
• Luggage transfer is available in which we transport your luggage for you each day (with the exception of one day when it’s not possible). Luggage is limited to one case/bag per person and costs €297 per bag. Insider TMB Tip: If you’re a group of 2 people, you can save € by just having one bag transported.

You’ll find all this information in your Travel Pack that you’ll receive before your tour. The times indicated above don’t include breaks. Allow more time than you think you’ll need.

In June and into July, there will still be snow in some sections and again in September, so please ensure that you’re comfortable hiking in the snow if you book your tour at these times. Contact us before booking if you have any doubts or questions. 

TOUR DU MONT BLANC REVIEWS

Check out more of Nuyama’s reviews here .

TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR INFO

Availability.

Our Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided hiking tours are available to start between June 10th – September 14th. You can choose a start date for your tour that’s convenient for you.

Note: you’ll encounter snow at the beginning and end of the season, so ensure that you’re comfortable hiking in snow if you book at this time.

Book as soon as possible to ensure that accommodation is available on your start date, especially during peak season in the summer months. Double private rooms fill up VERY quickly, and some accommodations are almost fully booked by January each year.

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Tour Details

On our self-guided tours, you get the flexibility and freedom to start your day when you choose. You hike at your own pace and take breaks whenever your heart (or lungs) desire. But without the pain and time-consuming planning and booking accommodations in three different countries in three different languages.

We’ll take care of booking your accommodation at our preferred providers, arrange for daily luggage transfer (if you wish), and provide you with a map and instructions in English.

We’re there for you both prior to and during your trip if you have any questions, and even provide an in-person briefing for you in Chamonix!

But keep in mind that these are self-guided trips so you also need to use your judgment and arrange your own transfers (unless otherwise indicated).

You can read more about guided vs self-guided hiking tours here .

Luggage Storage and Luggage Transfers

Upon booking with us, we can recommend hotels that will likely store your luggage for you while you trek. Always check with the hotel when you book that they’ll do this.

Alternatively, if you want your luggage with you, we also offer luggage transfer. The rates are €225 for the 7-day tour and €297 for the 10-day tour. Luggage transfer is included in our 6-day luxury tour.

On the 10-day tour, there’s one day that luggage transfer isn’t available due to the location of the hut. On this day, you’ll pack what you need for the night. Your luggage will be transported to your next accommodation.

Grade & Terrain and Required Fitness Level

Grade 3 (middle) for the 6 and 7-day tours and Grade 4 (challenging) for the 10-day tour. We recommend that you are in decent shape and active and ideally have previous experience. If you don’t have previous experience doing a multi-day hiking trip, then we recommend choosing the 6 or 7 day tour and adding in a rest day in Cournayeur for a better experience. Otherwise, you likely will find it too challenging.

Altitude Sickness

While Mont Blanc is an incredible 4807 m (15,771′), on your self-guided tour, the highest elevation you’ll be going to is 2532m (8307 ‘) at the Grand Col Ferret mountain pass.

The second highest is Col de la Seigne (2516m) (8255 ‘). This isn’t high enough to cause altitude sickness in most people.

Packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc

See our Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List for full details of what to bring and this post on what to include in your first aid kit..

Hiking Times/Distances

The distances and ascents/descents are approximations, as are the hiking times. These don’t include breaks. We’ve used the times indicated on the hiking signposts on the trail to be consistent, but most people find it takes them longer than the times indicated.

The itineraries shown may change slightly based on the available accommodation for your self-guided tour.

Transfers (lifts and buses ) if required, are not included. The total cost will come to less than €50 unless you take a taxi. You’ll take transfers on selected days as indicated in each tour section. Some of these are optional. You can either choose to hike these sections or take the transfers to make it easier. It’s your choice.

Lunches are not included. They can be ordered from your mountain hut (refuge) or hotel the night before for an additional fee. You’ll also need to bring your own snacks.

Travel insurance is required and not included. We recommend HeyMondo (get a 5% discount for being a Monkeys and Mountains reader.) since it includes mountain rescue and repatriation insurance which are required and not covered by all insurance policies.

RESERVE YOUR Tour du mont blanc SELF-GUIDED TOUR NOW

TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR FAQs

Where is the best place to stay in chamonix before/after my tour.

Check out our recommended accommodations in Chamonix and Les Houches . Note: some accommodations will store luggag for you while you’re on your tour, but always check before you book.

How Do I Get From Geneva to Chamonix?

The closest airport is in Geneva. You can get a shared or private transfer directly from the airport. The cheapest way to go is by FlixBus, but you’ll have to go into Geneva to catch the bus. Check out our guide on how to get from Geneva to Chamonix here .

Is the Tour du Mont Blanc hard?

While the tour isn’t technically hard, it is physically demanding. You’ll be hiking on a mixture of hiking trails and rugged terrain. There are a sustained amount of ascents and descents, and you’ll be hiking for 4-7 hours a day, depending on which self-guided tour you choose.

How long does it take to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

You can do the highlights self-guided tour in 6 or 7 days or do the complete Tour du Mont Blanc route in 10 days.

Can you do the Tour du Mont Blanc in 7 days?

You can do the highlight tour in 7 days, in which you skip the least interesting parts and hike the most amazing ones, but it’s not possible to do the complete route in 7 days (unless you’re trail running).

Can you do the Tour du Mont Blanc by yourself?

Yes, it’s possible, but it’s very time-consuming to plan and book all the accommodations yourself in three languages. That’s why we recommend our self-guided tour. You get our expert advice and will avoid the common pitfalls. See this post for further details.

Can you do the Tour du Mont Blanc without a guide?

Absolutely. The route is well-marked for the most part, and while it’s physically challenging, it’s not technical.

We recommend a self-guided tour so that you get the freedom of hiking on your own but without the time-consuming hassle of booking accommodations in 3 languages.

Is luggage transfer possible on the Tour du Mont Blanc?

Yes, this is an option on our self-guided 7 and 10-day tours. It’s already included in our luxury 6-day tour.

I’m planning on arriving in Chamonix a day or two early. What should I see and do?

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Chamonix in the summer .

If I take a rest day in Courmayeur, what is there to do and see?

Many of our Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided tour clients take an extra day as a rest day in Courmayeur, which is approximately halfway through your tour. Check out our guide to what to see and do in Courmayeur .

When is the best time to hike the TMB?

You can hike the TMB between mid June to mid September.

July and August, and the first week of September are the busiest months, but have the most favorable weather.

In June and mid-September will have fewer crowds, but it rains more and you’ll encounter more snow, so you need to be comfortable walking on snow if you go at this time. Also, some of the lifts and buses will not be running, so you may not have the option to shorten some sections and you may need to take a private taxi, depending on the tour you’re doing.

There’s no “best time”, it really depends on what’s most important to you in a trek.

What currency do I need for the TMB?

Carry Euros (€) for France and Italy, and Swiss Francs (CHF) for Switzerland. Note: it will be possible to use euros in Switzerland, but the exchange rate isn’t always favorable. Many of the mountain refuges only accept cash, so ensure that you bring enough.

What are the best places/most scenic on the TMB?

Notable scenic highlights include Col du Bonhomme, Col de la Seigne, Grand Col Ferret, the tranquil Val Ferret, and the stunning Lac Blanc, each offering unique and breathtaking views of the Alps.

BOOK YOUR TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOUR  NOW

Our Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hiking tours give you the freedom to hike on your own. But without the time-consuming hassles of booking accommodation in three different languages and planning your route.

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• Where to stay – Chamonix
• Geneva Airport to Chamonix
• Tour du Mont Blanc public transport
• Itineraries
• Tour du Mont Blanc Refuges
• Refuges ebook

Tour du Mont Blanc self guided v guided

Whether to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided or guided is one of the first and biggest decisions you need to make after you’ve decided to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc.

In fact, over the last few years, another popular alternative option has become available to TMB hikers – the ‘self guided package’.

Self guided packages allow you to choose from a number of set TMB itineraries , give detailed trail information, and include accommodation bookings. Customised itineraries, according to individual needs can be created for extra dosh. Some also provide mobile map apps to help guide you along the Tour du Mont Blanc trail. I discuss who I believe is the best company for Tour du Mont Blanc self guided packages below.

We discuss the three options below of how you can hike the Tour du Mont Blanc below:

1. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided independently

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided is actually quite easy. It’s definitely not necessary to hire an independent Tour du Mont Blanc guide or go with one of the many guided tour companies that ply the route because the trail is very well marked. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided independently is very easy to do if the weather is kind . The official TMB site has an interactive map which can help you plan your trip and you can also book many of the refuges through the site (although note many of the best refuges Bonatti, Lac Blanc to name a few need to be booked privately).

However, of course favourable weather cannot be depended on, particularly in the mountains so if you are planning to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided, you do need to be prepared. Mountain weather is very changeable. Bad weather can appear very quickly so make sure if you’re intending to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided, that you are equipped with a compass, map and whistle – and know how to use them. Check the weather regularly on the run up to your departure day to make sure there are no storms predicted, and set off early each morning as thunder storms tend to gather late afternoon in the Alps particularly in July and August.

I would also highly recommend using an offline GPS app such as Gaia GPS so you can easily see where you are on the trail even if you have no phone signal. Offline GPS apps really are an excellent way to keep safe and I can’t recommend them enough. You need to download the maps before you depart and always, obviously, have your phone charged whilst you’re on the trail so that you can see your position at all times. Make sure you have a power bank on your packing list. You can read our article on why every Tour du Mont Blanc hiker should download the Gaia GPS app here .

Walking the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided does require quite a bit of planning. You need to get acquainted with the trail, choose how far you want to trek each day and then book the accommodation accordingly. It can be quite hard to get your head around the trail initially. One of my biggest tips is to invest in a 3D relief map of Mont Blanc. You can find them for as little as €17.00. They really give you a sense of the elevation on each stage and can help you plan better, especially if you want to veer away from the standard 11 days to shorten or fast track stages.

One huge advantage of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided independently is the cost. It’s way cheaper than taking a guided tour. Camping along the trail can slash your Tour du Mont Blanc budget by more than half although it’s a lot of extra effort in carrying your camping gear and is a slightly different experience as wild camping is only permitted in France so on some stages you might need to backtrack to find official campsites.

I would say that most people would be absolutely fine to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided independently. The trail is well worn and very busy. There are refuges every 5km along the route. Unless you are really worried to trek independently, there is no need to book a guided tour. However a self guided assisted trek may be a better option for those who want the stress out of booking the refuges & are much more convenient having some other reassuring extras – we discuss this further down this article in No 3 – you can jump to it here No 3 Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a Self Guided Package

Independent trekkers that might like to talk through the trail day by day over an interactive map (screen sharing) with me can now book a 1 hour zoom call consultation with me. I can give you the low down on each stage giving you trail tips and general advice. I’m also happy to look over your itinerary to see whether there’s anything glaringly out of place.

2. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a guide via a tour company

The plus side of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a tour company is that it’s so much easier. You really don’t have to do anything at all, apart from your own physical preparation for the TMB.

The tour operator will arrange your pick up from the airport (Geneva, 1hr away), arrange all the luggage transfers between the huts and is guaranteed to give you peace of mind if you’re a worry wart. A professional guide will lead you and will know exactly what to do should an emergency arise.

Another huge plus of hiking with a tour group is the extra information you will glean on your surroundings from your guide. Your guide will be well versed in the history of the trail, the flora and fauna, the villages and the people.

If you’re trekking solo and want to meet other hikers or just want more of a social aspect to your trek, being part of a tour group definitely has an appeal. Remember though – this is a tough hike. Group tours try to bag together hikers of the same level but this can be difficult. You might find it hard to keep up with the group if you’re not at the same fitness level or you could find that the group is too slow for you and get frustrated. In general however the guides are very good and accommodating to all level of hikers.

Booking a TMB guided tour is for hikers who want a bit of extra reassurance, want to learn more from a local expert, are looking for a more social experience. My first recommendation for those who want to book a guided trek would be local company Adventure Base who I work with on self guided assisted treks. Guided treks do get booked out quickly so my advice is to book well in advance. My readers do get expedited through the booking process though with Adventure Base so it’s worth mentioning you’ve come through this website. Readers also get free hiking pole hire using this code TMBHPOLE.

3. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a self guided package

A new popular way to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc is with a self guided package. Providing the wealth of knowledge necessary to plan your own trek, these third party companies offer a number of set itineraries for you to choose from, or they can custom build an itinerary for you bespoke according to your needs.

The huge advantage of this option is that all the planning is done for you. Once you’ve chosen your itinerary, the company will book your accommodation, so all you really need to do is rock up and be fit enough.

This option allows for independent hiking and is perfect for those who don’t have the time, or just don’t want to get bogged down in the detail of trek planning and who don’t want to be in a large group. You get the freedom of hiking at your own pace, without strangers and it’s much more stress free than planning it yourself. Of course this service comes at a slightly higher price than if you were to trek completely independently so if you’re trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc on a budget this would not be an option for you.

If you are considering this a TMB self guided package option then of course you’ll want to research which is the best company for the Tour du Mont Blanc?

There are many Tour du Mont Blanc companies however in my experience the best company for the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided packages would be Adventure Base, a local company in Chamonix.

I am now working exclusively with Adventure Base to power the self guided itineraries that I have carefully planned for trekkers. If this is an option you’d like to explore, you can choose from the various itineraries depending on your fitness, time frame and how many hours you want to hike per day. I’ve planned two family Tour du Mont Blanc itineraries with much shorter stages to help with little legs for families hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc. I’ve also include several itineraries for super fit trekkers/fast packers and an itinerary for adventure seekers set on on staying in high mountain huts and of course the full 11 day Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, a variant TMB itinerary (which as the names suggests follows all the variant trails) and the half tour itineraries too. You can view all the itineraries here.

These itineraries have been built by myself and can be either trekked completely independently or if you want help booking the refuges, arranging airport & baggage transfers as well being able to store luggage in Chamonix and have someone meet you in Chamonix and have 24hr assistance if required on the trail – you can book them as a SELF GUIDED OPTION or guided. Adventure Base are based in Chamonix and have a wealth of experience trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc and as I said I believe them to be the best company for Tour du Mont Blanc trekkers who want to take the stress out of organising their TMB trek.

Please note that our 2023 self guided treks are now completely sold out. However we are now taking bookings for 2024. Click on our itineraries page , scroll to the itinerary you are interested in, and you’ll find a red BOOK NOW FOR 2024 button. You can pay a deposit now and pay for the rest of the trek 10 weeks before.

So which should I choose?

Lets face it, it’s far more adventurous (and a fraction of the cost) to choose the independent trekking option. It’s a very easy route to follow and for me personally, planning is half the fun of the adventure.

But everyone is different. Age, fitness and attitude will determine your options, as well as budget.

• If budget isn’t an issue, you want peace of mind and to meet other hikers – choose the guided tour
• If you want to trek independently but don’t want to plan it all out – choose the self guided package.
• If you’re trekking on a shoestring, are an experienced hiker or are an adventurous soul – do it independently.

Further Reading...

The Tour du Mont Blanc’s 11 stages

Planning – the first steps

Tour du Mont Blanc Tips – good advice before you begin

16 comments.

Renee Barthelman

I am interested doing a self-guided package. Where do I start?

tourdumontblanchike

Hi Renee I work with Adventure Base, a local company in Chamonix, to operate my self guided packages. With self guided packages you can choose from my set itineraries which I’ve carefully planned or they can customise one for your requirements. Most start in Les Houches but not necessarily depending on the time you want to trek for or what say what highlights you wanted to see depending again on the length of your trek. I’ll ping you an email now direct with more info. Best. Mags

i am looking for a lower mileage per day trip. Closer to 5 to 6 miles per day. I am looking for around a 4-5 day trip also. Can you help me find an itinerary like this? Thank You, Patty Wurm

Hi Patty take a look at our 6 day family friendly itinerary. It covers the first half of the trek from Chamonix in France to Courmayeur in Italy. The days are shortened significantly.If you wanted to cut this down to just 4 days you could take a taxi from Chamonix to Les Contamines and start from there.

https://tourdumontblanchike.com/family-friendly-tour-du-mont-blanc-6-day-itinerary/

Hi Meg, Happy New Year. Thanks for all the information but I have not read your link articles yet due to time constraints but will do so if we meet certain basic conditions and consider doing it. I hope you can answer my following questions: 1)How much will a self guided tour cost per person and will be if cheaper if we are a group? 2)Can someone without mountain climbing experience or training do this trip? Do you think it’s more or less strenuous compared to the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp trek? 3)Is there any peak or low peak season that my affect the cost? 4)How far ahead must we book for the accomodations? Any answer will be.much appreciated.

Hi Stanley. It is not necessary for people hiking the TMB to have mountain climbing experience. There are certain variants (stage 8 variant Col du Fenetre that I would not advise to anyone who is not comfortable with more challenging mountain terrain as this route crosses a boulder field). In general the standard route is a well trodden, well signposted path. On stage 10 the standard route includes a series of 13 metal ladders which in practice is not really an issue (it sounds scarier than it is – unless of course you suffer from vertigo. In this case there is an alternative route you take to avoid the ladders.

I haven’t done the Annapurna Circuit or EBC trek – I’m hoping to do it this year so I can’t comment on that. The altitude would certainly be easier – at no point will you be struggling for breath however the ups and downs are constant and many people underestimate the elevation gain per day.

You should be booking now if you haven’t done so – many of the refuges are already full. The shoulder seasons are last half of June and September however June normally has snow on the trail in some sections. Sept is a lovely time to hike however public transport options will have stopped if you were looking to use these to cut your trail times. Sept normally has lovely weather with much less storms than August.

Cost wise no it wouldn’t be cheaper as a group unfortunately – the prices of the refuges are set and don’t change whether its shoulder season or peak season. I use Adventure Base, a local company, for all my self guided treks. They/We have stopped taking bookings for summer 2023 now as the availably in the refuges are now so restricted or full. Adventure Base are taking my bookings for 2024 though so if you contact them direct mention my name. They are taking bookings without a deposit for 2024.

Hope this info helps. Best. Mags

David Felton

Hi Mags – do you this hike is possible in mid-May ’23? Thanks

Hi David no the official opening date of the trail is 14 June and then it can have snow on it for the first couple of weeks in particular areas. The ski season goes on into May so as you can imagine there still is a lot of snow then. Best. Mags

Øyvind Nilsen

Hi Meg, I am planning to do a self-guided on Tour du Mont Blanc this summer but only have one week for disposal. 22 July to 28 july. Do you have any packages for running approximately 35-50 km pr day with available refuges? Best regards, Øyvind Nilsen

Hi Øyvind sorry for the late reply. Hopefully you are sorted now? July is almost fully booked – it’s very hard to get around the trail now. I have some zoom clients, some runners, plan a route around in July where they are camping two nights and the rest in refuges. If you’d like assistance planning this you can contact me on [email protected] for a private zoom consultation. Thanks. Mags

Is the only way to do the circuit via refuges or camping? If refuges are full, is it an option to stay in a nearby town instead?

Hi Elizabeth. Absolutely it’s an option. For example at the bottle neck at Les Chapieux you can order a taxi to go down to the town of Bourg St Maurice which is around 20 minutes down the valley.

Brad Muender

Quick question… if I want to book a self guided tour would I book with you or Adventure Base? I wasn’t sure if you are separate companies or if you are working together.

Hi Brad we work together so you can ping me an email to [email protected] . Speak soon. Mags

Like to receive updates via email

Hi Kelly. No problem I’ve added you onto my mailing list.

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Tour du Mont Blanc packing list

Tour du mont blanc luggage transfer - everything you need to know, tour du mont blanc hike, privacy overview.

How to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

We first hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc in 2017, camping most nights while also staying in a few of the mountain refuges along the route. At that time, we were able to make and confirm refuge bookings in March & April and plan things on a whim.

Much has changed since then!

Now, accommodation seems to book up the instant it is made available with guided companies scooping up refuge beds before the independent hiker even has a chance. While it certainly has gotten more difficult to plan a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trip, we’re here to tell you it’s still possible!

This guide will show you how to fight back against those guided companies and plan a great Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided trip on your own. We hope it inspires you to plan your own TMB adventure!

In this Guide

• Pick Your Dates
• Set Your Itinerary
• Book Your Accommodation
• Arrange Transit
• Make a Plan to Navigate
• Pack Your Bags
• Tour du Mont Blanc: Guided vs. Self Guided

Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc Planning

All things considered, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a relatively straightforward trek to plan on your own. There is ample information available online , several good guidebooks, and a very active Facebook group that is a gold mine of information.

However, in recent years accommodation has emerged as one of the major hurdles to planning a self-guided trip on the TMB, with planning an itinerary becoming more difficult.

Don’t let that dissuade you though, as we have tons of resources to help you plan your trip.

To start, our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc includes three pre-designed itineraries complete with custom GPS files to help you navigate. You’ll also find a helpful accommodation directory, as well as details on where to stay should some of the most popular options on the trail be fully booked for your dates.

Check it out below:

Plan Your Perfect Tour du Mont Blanc Trip

Our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc is the ultimate tool to help you plan your perfect trip. You’ll get instant access to our online planning portal with three unique TMB itineraries, custom GPS files, accommodation & hut recommendations, and more!

Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc

Complete Guide & Planning Portal | 30 modules

Before starting your trip planning, we highly recommend getting more familiar with the trail. To start, our Ultimate Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc article will give you an overview of the hike as well as what to expect.

In addition. we recommend grabbing the most recent version of the Cicerone Tour of Mont Blanc: Complete two-way trekking guide – the best guidebook for the route in our opinion.

Once you’ve reviewed those resources, you should have a good sense of what to expect as well as some of the basics of preparing for a self guided Tour du Mont Blanc trek.

From here, you’ll jump into creating an itinerary, booking your accommodation , and arranging transit to/from the hike . Finally, you’ll want to have a plan to navigate on the trail.

We’ll go through each of these steps and more in the following sections.

Step One: Pick Your Dates

The first step may seem obvious, but you’ll need to decide your general dates for hiking the trail. If you have some flexibility that will be extremely valuable as it gives you more options should your preferred refuges be full.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a summer trail, and we’ve provided some general information on the different times to hike the trail below:

• June:  The trail generally becomes snow free in late-June or early-July. Any earlier than this you will need to be prepared to cross snow fields, and also be experienced in that type of travel. We generally don’t recommend starting before the last week of June.
• July: Welcome to peak season on the TMB! The trails are clear, refuges are full, and there is an amazing energy in all of the towns on the route.
• August: In our estimation August can be the busiest month on the TMB. Most of Europe is taking a month long holiday (jealous!), the weather is settled, and all accommodation will be open. Be aware the the Ultra Tour du Mont Blanc , a trail race on the trail, takes place towards the end of the month and brings added pressure on accommodation.
• September : If you’re lucky enough to be able to hike the TMB in early September, you should definitely do it. The weather is cooler, the trail much quieter, and most accommodation is still open.

Step Two: Create Your Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary

Ok, so clearly this is a big step and the heart of your trip planning.

This is often the most intimidating part of planning a self-guided TMB trip. To start, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the various stages on the trail – read about what each day entails, how long it is, and what your options for accommodation at the end of the day are.

Here is the standard self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary that most hikers will start with when planning their trip:

• Stage 1:  Les Houches to Les Contamines
• Stage 2:  Les Contamines to Les Chapieux
• Stage 3:  Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta
• Stage 4:  Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur
• Stage 5:  Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti
• Stage 6:  Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly
• Stage 7:  La Fouly to Champex
• Stage 8:  Champex to Col de la Forclaz
• Stage 9:  Col de la Forclaz to Tre-le-Champ
• Stage 10:  Tre-le-Champ to Refuge La Flegere
• Stage 11:  Refuge La Flegere to Les Houches

If you want more itinerary options, check out our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc or consider working with us to create a custom itinerary – we’d be happy to help!

The TMB is traditionally hiked in an anti-clockwise direction starting in the village of Les Houches. However, if you’re interested in hiking opposite of most hikers, you’ll likely want to start in the Swiss village of Champex-Lac.

Step Three: Book Your Accommodation

This step is almost certainly the most difficult part of any self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trip. Accommodation seems to be booking up earlier and earlier each year, with many guided tour companies securing blocks of rooms/beds well in advance of them being made available to the general public.

Although this can be incredibly frustrating, there are some general tips to make the process easier for the independent hiker:

• Start planning your trip/itinerary early. If you can have a general idea of dates in the fall prior to your hike, you’ll be in great shape.
• Join the Tour du Mont Blanc Facebook Group – you’ll get invaluable tips from other self-guided hikers as well as real time intel on which refuges are taking bookings.
• Be flexible! You’ll need to be willing to change plans based on what accommodation is available. Although popular options may be full, most stops on the route have plenty of alternative options.
• Utilize public transportation. If a particular refuge of hotel is full, there is almost always the possibility of taking the bus/train off the route to find other accommodation . Yes, it can be a bit of a pain, but definitely better than not hiking at all!

Our Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation & Refuge Guide is a good place to start and get familiar with your options along the trail.

If you’re unsure how to book your TMB accommodation, we’ve put together the video below to give you a general overview:

If you want access to the resources shown in the video as well as details on alternative options to popular accommodation on the TMB, our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc has an entire section on it 🙂

Finally, should you find the process of reserving refuges on the TMB as infuriating as we do, you can always bring your tent and camp along the route. We of course have a complete guide to camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc that has all the information you need.

Want to learn how to create your own route and itinerary?

Our GPS Route Making & Navigation Course will teach you everything you need to know to build your own custom itinerary. We’ll show you how to map your route, create custom GPS files, sync routes to your phone, and even print your own maps. Learn more below:

Ready to take control of your trip planning? We’re here to help you create your own custom itinerary and navigate like a pro!

GPS Route Making & Navigation

Video Course | 17 lessons

Learn more about our GPS Route Making & Navigation Course here!

Step Four: Arrange Your Transit To/From the Tour du Mont Blanc

If you’ve successfully reached this step of the TMB trip planning process you can let out a big exhale!

The most difficult parts of planning your trip are behind you, and you can now tackle some of the easier logistical pieces, including arranging transit to/from the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Luckily, this is a very easy step with tons of different options to get to the start of the trail in Les Houches or Champex. Your best bets are below:

If you’re flying into Geneva, you’ll have several options for getting to Chamonix, outlined below:

• Flixbus : We found this to be the cheapest option and would highly recommend Flixbus. The service departs directly from the Geneva Airport and will take you to the Chamonix Sud bus station, in the heart of Chamonix.
• AlpyBus : AlpyBus runs a door-to-door transfer service from the Geneva Airport to hotels in the Chamonix Valley. It is more costly than OuiBus, but also more convenient since they’ll drop you directly at your hotel.
• Mountain Drop-offs : Similar to AlpyBus, Mountain Drop-offs runs a door-to-door transfer service for walkers arriving in Geneva. Very highly rated.

All of the options above will also be able to transport you back to the Geneva Airport at the end of the TMB. Many also offer discounts for booking a return ticket.

If you’re starting the trek in Champex, you’ll likely need to utilize a combination of train/bus to arrive. Most train lines will connect you to the town of Orsières in Switzerland, from which you can take a bus transfer to Champex.

Once you’ve arrived in Chamonix, you’ll find local transit to Les Houches is easy and straightforward. You can either take the local bus or the Mont Blanc express to the start of the trek in Les Houches.

One point to remember is that most accommodation in Chamonix and the surrounding area will provide you with a Carte d’Hote , which provides free use of public transportation in the valley. A great benefit!

Step Five: Make a Plan to Navigate on the Trail

Although the Tour du Mont Blanc is a relatively well marked trail, you’ll still want to have a plan to navigate. This is especially true for a self-guided hiker, as you won’t have the benefit of a guide to tell you which fork in the trail to take.

Luckily, it has never been easier to utilize offline GPS maps on your smartphone to navigate on the TMB. Simply download a .gpx file for the route , load it onto your phone, and voila: you can now see your location, the trail, and your surroundings all without cell phone service.

We wrote a detailed guide to navigating on the TMB , which has all the info you’ll need to utilize this method.

If you’re after a paper map as a backup (always a good idea), this version is your best bet.

If you want to learn how to make your own Tour du Mont Blanc offline route (or a route for any other hike) check out our  GPS Route Making & Navigation Course , which will teach you everything you need to know to build your own custom itinerary. We’ll show you how to map your route, create custom GPS files, sync routes to your phone, and even print your own maps.

Step Six: Pack Your Bags for the TMB!

Ok, at this point you’ve got your itinerary set, accommodation booked, and a good understanding of the trail. All that’s left is to pack your bags and head to the Alps!

In terms of what to bring, you’ll want all the essentials for a multi-day hiking trip. Our Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List is the perfect resource to consult for every last item.

However, there are a few key items for the self-guided hiker to be sure they pack:

• Hiking Poles : Save your knees on those tricky descents!
• Sleep sheet : If you are staying in refuges, a good sleep-sheet is a must.
• Good layers : Temperature swings can be significant in the Alps, so you’ll need to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Merino baselayers, a down jacket, and a good rain jacket are the essentials.

Tour du Mont Blanc: Guided vs. Self-Guided

Ok, by this point you likely have a good idea if a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trip is for you. However, if you’re still not sure, we’ve highlighted some of the key factors to help you decide between a guided or self-guided trek.

If you don’t mind being more self-sufficient and digging into the details to design an itinerary that works for you, you will probably enjoy hiking on your own. This allows you more solitude and flexibility throughout your trip.

Additionally, if you are comfortable and have the time to reach out, follow-up, and even call the various refuges along the route, that will go a long way in ensuring a successful self-guided TMB trek.

We hiked on our own and we were more than happy with our decision.

On the other hand, if you don’t want to worry about booking your accommodation or other logistics and you enjoy the social aspect of hiking with a group, going with a guide might be a good choice. Additionally, most guided tours provide baggage transfers, a helpful service for many hikers.

Check out some pros/cons for each option below:

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

• Save money!
• Get to plan your own trip based on personal preferences
• More rewarding to have completed the trek on your own
• Have your own experience
• Booking accommodation can be difficult
• Have to navigate the trail on your own
• Must be organized and detail oriented
• Have to arrange your own transit to/from the trail (which isn’t difficult!)

Tour du Mont Blanc Guided

• Accommodation & transit arranged for you
• Have someone else design an itinerary that works for you
• Guides can provide great information on the trail and surrounding region
• Never worry about getting lost
• Often includes luggage transfer
• More expensive
• Less flexibility
• Potential that you won’t like hiking with your group

A third option? The assisted self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc

Ok, so there is one last option you should consider when deciding the best way to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc. And that is the tour-company assisted self-guided trek. This is a relatively new offering that has exploded in popularity over the past few years.

With this scenario, you will work directly with one of the guided Tour du Mont Blanc companies to design an itinerary that fits your needs. They will then book all of your accommodation, arrange your transport to the trek, and can even help with luggage transfer.

Of course, of all of this comes with a cost well-above what it would cost to plan the same trip on your own.

The biggest benefit is help in securing accommodation bookings along the route, as many of these tour companies have access to availability beyond what is provided to the public. You’re basically paying for increased access as well as help with the first few steps of this guide.

This is definitely something to consider if you aren’t trying to complete the trek on the smallest budget possible, or if you have no flexibility in your dates to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Have a great adventure!

We hope this post has given you some additional insights into how to plan a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trek. We had an amazing time when we hiked the trail on our own, and want to be sure that all hikers feel empowered to plan this trek themselves!

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about planning your own trip, and be sure to check out the rest of our TMB resources below:

• Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List – Be sure you’ve got everything you need!
• Tour du Mont Blanc | Maps & Routes – Get an overview of this incredible trail!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Logistics – Don’t forget the small details!
• How to Navigate on the TMB – Turn your smartphone into a GPS!
• How to find all of your campgrounds on the TMB – Know where you are and where you’re going!
• How to train for the TMB – Avoid being the last person to the campground!
• 10 Essentials for the Tour du Mont Blanc- The quick and dirty basics
• TMB Trip Report – Know what to expect!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Photo Galley – Find some inspiration!
• How to hike the TMB for (nearly) free – save BIG on your TMB costs!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation and Refuge Guide
• Tour du Mont Blanc – Shortcuts, Detours, & Public Transit

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We’re Emily and Ian, outdoor lovers and planning nerds who live in Boulder, Colorado. The only thing we love more than researching and mapping out our next adventure, is actually being out there on the trail. Between the two of us, we’ve been to over 30 countries, and much of our travel in these countries has been on two feet or two wheels. When we’re not in a far-flung destination, we spend a lot of time exploring the amazing camping, hiking, and biking destinations in our home state of Colorado. Learn More About Us

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Self Guided Treks: Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du mont blanc fast packing 6 days.

This 6 day self-guided version is specifically designed for experienced trekkers who want to go at a fast pace. Expect to cover distances of up to 30 km per day with 2000m of elevation.

June - September

Tour du Mont Blanc Adventurous 9 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170 km trekking trail through France, Italy and Switzerland. Circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, it is one of the world’s most famous classic multi day treks and is on every serious hiker’s bucket list. This self-guided version specifically avoids the more popular places to stay and keeps you off the beaten track staying in fairly remote refuges. One for the wild ones.

July - August

Tour du Mont Blanc 7 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170 km trekking trail through France, Italy and Switzerland. Circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, it is one of the world’s most famous classic multi day treks and is on every serious hiker’s bucket list. This 7 day self-guided version specifically tailors to those looking to do the route within a week of holiday.

July - September

Tour du Mont Blanc Western Route 4 Days

Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc Western Route from Chamonix to Courmayeur via Les Contamines and Les Chapieux. Start in France and finish in Italy.

Tour du Mont Blanc Self Guided 11 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170 km trekking trail through France, Italy and Switzerland. Circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, it is one of the world’s most famous classic multi day treks and is on every serious hiker’s bucket list. This 11 day self-guided version covers each stage of the trek, making it the 'complete' journey around the full trail.

Tour du Mont Blanc Epic Mont Blanc 3 Days

Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc Chamonix Highlights over 3 days. Based in Chamonix visiting the famous trails of the Tour du Mont Blanc overlooking Mont Blanc.

Tour du Mont Blanc Turbo 4 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170 km trekking trail through France, Italy and Switzerland. Circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, it is one of the world’s most famous classic multi day treks and is on every serious hiker’s bucket list. This self-guided version of the full route is for expert trekkers only with a high level of fitness.

Tour du Mont Blanc Family 4.5 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170 km trekking trail through France, Italy and Switzerland. Circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, it is one of the world’s most famous classic multi day treks and is on every serious hiker’s bucket list. This 4.5 day self-guided version is specifically designed for families with shorter hiking days to cater for younger kids.

Tour du Mont Blanc Family 6 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170 km trekking trail through France, Italy and Switzerland. Circumnavigating Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, it is one of the world’s most famous classic multi day treks and is on every serious hiker’s bucket list. This 6 day self-guided version is specifically designed for families with shorter hiking days to cater for younger kids.

Tour du Mont Blanc Eastern Route 4 Days

Experience the best of the Tour du Mont Blanc trails on this self guided trip. Starting in Italy, you make your way over to Switzerland and finally end up in France over 4 days trekking. The trip has been designed so that you only need to take 2 days off work in order to experience this world famous trek.

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Self-Guided Hiking Tours

France, italy & switzerland | tour du mont blanc, circumnavigate western europe's highest peak..

• "I didn't have to plan the details (i.e., transportation, hotels). Since planning/managing is what I do for a living, it was great to have someone else cover everything. The trip was seamless." - Amy H.
• "I loved my trek! Oh let me count the ways! 1. The scenery - jaw dropping, awe inspiring, words cannot describe the scenery. 2. It was challenging, but not too hard. 3. You mostly climbed up in the mornings and descended or had it easier most afternoons. 4. The camaraderie with the other hikers doing the TMB." - Donna B.
• "The narrative description was a constant source of amusement since it was so well-written with a whimsical and playful tone, yet very very accurate and helpful. We were surprised with how often we referred back to the narrative versus the map. Whoever wrote it gets five stars! And a bonus!!! You seemed the most organized, well-represented online, fair in your pricing, professional. Brittany was exceptional and winning in her confidence and non-salesy tone on the phone. I sensed we would get exactly what we paid for with you all." - Ken G.
• "My wife and I really enjoy hiking and have been doing Ryder-Walker (RW) treks for over a decade now and chose this RW trek to celebrate our 20th Wedding Anniversary. As such, RW probably gave us some upgrades, but the accommodations were some of the best we have ever experienced anywhere, let alone a "hiking vacation." If there was a best room in the house or you should be on this side to get the best of this-or-that, RW had you there. " - Bill Y.
• "We just returned from our fantastic trip! I just wanted to complement your team for putting together such a great trip. It was perfect from the itinerary, picturesque views, great accommodations and the trail descriptions and maps were spot-on! We were so happy with everything that we can't wait to book our next trip! I also wanted to compliment your guide Willie. We were on the same itinerary as the guided trip and we had a great time with this group. Willie was so enthusiastic, informative and just a really great person!! The group that he was guiding had the highest praise for him! He was so good to us and we had wonderful times at dinners with the group and Willie! He really is an asset to your team! Again I have very high praise for Ryder Walker. I have already recommended your company to a friend!" - Kim Chagnon
• "Amazing!! Thank you...This trip is ridiculously awesome and will totally write you guys great reviews when we get home. I think I just had one of the best dinners in my life tonight. Thank you for organizing this trip. You guys rock!" - Andy Fernandez
• "Amazing experience, lodging, food, challenge, going solo, luggage transport, would definitely do again!" - Hatley McMicking

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Trip  Highlights :

A world famous hike that everybody should do at least once., hiking beneath mont blanc, western europe’s highest peak., the pleasures of france, italy and switzerland all in one tour..

Outside Magazine named Ryder-Walker’s trek one of the 25 Best Hikes in the World .

Mont Blanc (15,781 feet) rises more than 12,000 vertical feet above the famous resort village of Chamonix, France. The epitome of everything that is “alpine” in the Alps, Mont Blanc beckons hikers and climbers from around the globe with its snow-white glaciers, sheer cliff walls, and chalet-studded valleys.

To relax at a chic café in downtown Chamonix, gazing skyward at the glistening ramparts of the Mont Blanc Massif, is an amazing experience. To walk around the entire circumference of Western Europe’s tallest peak , and to witness Mont Blanc’s beauty from the vantages of three different countries , is something all together incomparable and infinitely special.

Hike across the borders of France, Italy and Switzerland during our ten-day self-guided hiking tour. Taking advantage of some little-known variations to the standard route, you hike from the mountain-chic cafés of Chamonix , to remote mountain hamlets en route to Courmayeur, Italy . Our gracious host welcomes you to her cozy chalet in Champex, Switzerland , tempting you with locally grown food and delicious wine. Hike back into France on the Grand Balcon Sud , one of the most beautiful hiking trails in all of France.

Based out of a mix of charming country inns, first-class hotels, and simple inns, the unique combination of good accommodations and spectacular hiking makes this itinerary a wonderful reward for the physically fit.

Learn more about the French, Italian and Swiss Alps-Mont Blanc destination

Trip Itinerary

Choose from our standard itinerary or customize the trek by adding or subtracting days.

Day 1 - Arrive in Chamonix

Independently transfer to Chamonix, located at the base of Western Europe’s tallest peak, Mont Blanc – 15,781 ft. Geneva is the recommended point of entry.

Day 2 - Chamonix to Les Contamines

Shuttle from Chamonix to Les Houches in the morning and enjoy a moderate introductory hike to Contamines, with views over the peaks and glaciers of Chamonix. Hike past old ruins and settlements, then over the Col de Tricot, where you descend through a splendid forest to Les Contamines.

Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000/4000 ft

Day 3 - Les Contamines to La Ville des Glaciers

Ascend past waterfalls on an ancient Roman road to the dramatically situated Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme. A delightful descent through high alpine meadows offers opportunity to spot the elusive ibex. You spend the night in a simple, but charming mountain inn. Private rooms are subject to availability.

Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 4300/2950 ft

Day 4 - La Ville des Glaciers to Courmayeur

The greetings change to Italian today as you cross the border to Italy at the Col de la Seigne. Enjoy staggering views of the glaciated peaks on the Italian side of Mont Blanc.

Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400/2870 ft. Extension: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400/3250 ft.

Day 5 - Courmayeur to Val Ferret

As you traverse from Courmayeur to Val Ferret, across Mont de la Saxe, you are treated to ever-improving views of the Brenva face of Mont Blanc, its most impressive and imposing aspect on our remote, rarely traveled variation.

Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3300/2100 ft.

Day 6 - Val Ferret to Champex

The language changes back to French as you ascend the Grand Col Ferret into the canton of Valais in Switzerland. Stunning views of the Grand Combin massif make this a spectacular hike. Descend through pristine meadows to the Swiss Val Ferret. At the end of the hike there is a short transfer to the idyllic lakeside town of Champex.

Distance: 11.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600/3100 ft.

Day 7 - Champex to Trient

We offer two options today. Either climb into the gorgeous side valley of Le Barmey and stop for lunch at Alpage de Bovine hut, above the beautiful Rhone Valley, or climb over the Fenêtre d’Arpette. Both routes end in Trient where you are accommodated in a simple inn with shared showers. Private rooms are subject to availability; you have access to your luggage here.

Col de La Forclaz (Bovine hut) distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft. Fenêtre d’Arpette distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4500/4450 ft.

Day 8 - Trient to Argentière

From Trient, hike via the Col des Posettes, a pleasant variant of the TMB, and finish in Argentière.

Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2700 ft.

Day 9 - Argentière to Chamonix

This hike along the stunning Grand Balcon Sud offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles, or needles, of Chamonix.

Distance: 7 – 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft. Options to extend or shorten the hike are available.

Day 10 - Depart

Awaken to a delicious French breakfast, then depart. An early afternoon flight from Geneva can easily be met.

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Trip rating.

Trip Ratings Explained

Self-Guided Tour

Mid June-Mid September

Only the following pre-reserved tour dates are available for 2024: June 15 – 24 SOLD OUT June 21 – 29  SOLD OUT June 24 – July 3  SOLD OUT June 27 – July 6  SOLD OUT July 10 – 19 SOLD OUT July 14 – 23 SOLD OUT August 1 – 10 August 11 – 20 August 12 – 21   SOLD OUT September 5 – 14  SOLD OUT September 7 – 16  

Book now for 2025!

2024 Pricing $3,450 per person double Single (+$650)

Guided Tour

June 19 – 28, 2024 August 21 – 30, 2024

2024 Pricing *$5,850 per person double Single (+$650)

*Minimum of two people required to run this tour

Private Guided Tour

2024 Pricing **$7,150 per person double Single (+$650)

**Price based on a group of four

Please contact us to schedule a private guided tour.

Trip Profile

9 nights/10 days Hiking up to 12 miles Ascents up to 4500 ft

Tour Package Includes

Custom route descriptions Four-color topo maps Travel instructions Luggage transfers (One bag per person no more than 33 lbs/15 kg. Extra baggage will be an additional charge.) Cultural information and more

Accommodations

2 nights in first class hotels 5 nights in charming country inns 1 night in simple country inn with shared bathrooms 1 night simple inn with shared bathrooms, (private rooms are subject to availability)

Breakfast + Dinner

Breakfast included daily. Dinner included everywhere except Chamonix.

Luggage Transfer

All nights. Luggage restrictions: one bag per person no more than 33 lbs/15 kg. Extra baggage will be an additional charge. *$100 supplement for solo hiker.

Transportation

Taxi transfers on the standard itinerary are included during the tour starting and ending in Chamonix. Public transportation costs are not included in the trip price. If the itinerary includes public transportation, we provide timetables, schedules, and a link to purchase tickets if available.

Geneva, Switzerland

Tour du Mont Blanc | France, Italy & Switzerland

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• Tour du Mont Blanc is popular this year! 🔥 Pre-booked dates still available 👉 8/1-8/10, 8/11-8/20, 9/7-9/16

Well and Good Travel

The Foolproof Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary: 10-Days

10 days of hiking in the Alps – the ULTIMATE wellness trip if you ask me. This Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided itinerary follows the traditional TMB route, includes tips, daily trail specs, and accommodation suggestions, and addresses some of the most common questions you might be asking yourself as you begin planning your tour.

The Tour du Mont Blanc, or the TMB, is a 105-mile (170 km) trail that circumnavigates Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe. The TMB is often considered one of the most beautiful through-hikes in the world, introducing hikers from around the globe to the exquisite and dramatic scenery of the Alps.

👉 Don’t forget travel insurance for this trip! I always use SafetyWing !

Want to save yourself a lot of planning time? Check out Skyhook Adventures’ 10-day guided trek if you want all of your accommodations, food, and transportation taken care of!

Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary 10 Days

This itinerary does not include, but I recommend, staying in Chamonix for a couple of days before and after your tour, first to acclimate and then to relax.

The TMB is broken up into “stages”. Traditionally, there are 11 stages but depending on how many days you want to trek you can find different versions of the stages.

During your planning, and your trekking, take all distance, time, and elevation markers or estimations with a grain of salt. Mileage on GPS and in guidebooks and blogs rarely match up, and there are a lot of variables that affect the accuracy of the time estimations. The trail markers seem to allot 30 minutes for every mile, but depending on your age, the weather, and what shape you’re in, that will be different for every person. For your own sake, just always assume you’ll have an additional mile or 30 minutes 🙂

Tour du Mont Blanc Trek Specs:

• Distance: 105 miles / 170 kilometers
• Route Type:  Loop
• Starting Point: Les Houches (traditionally)
• Direction: Counter-clockwise (although it can also be hiked clockwise)
• Total Elevation Gain/Loss:   33,632ft / 10,251 m
• Maximum Altitude: 8,500 ft / 2600 m
• Days To Hike: 7-12 days
• Countries: France, Italy, Switzerland
• Difficulty: Difficult (never flat, always up or down)

Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary Disclaimers:

• Most stages have alternative route options, or “variants”, as they are called. This itinerary follows the traditional TMB route, except for day 10. Refer to the recommended guidebooks for variant options.
• Some stages have options to use public transport and lifts/gondolas to accelerate and shorten the path. This itinerary discloses any shortcuts by calling out *SHORTCUT*.
• There are many mountain huts/refuges along the TMB to choose from. This allows for total personalization of your trek. The huts recommended in this 10-day Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary are huts that I stayed in and will provide my honest opinion about.

Day 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

Do not get off at the first stop in Les Houches – stay on until you see the Office de Tourismo (on your left). Here you will see the TMB starting point arch. Take a photo and walk onward for about 10 minutes until you see the “Telecabine Bellevue”. *SHORTCUT* This will cut off a 2600 ft / 800 m climb through the forest. Begin your trek at the top of this cable car.

You’ll pass through many towns and villages today, and you won’t feel very “out there”. The signage is decent, just make sure you pay attention and don’t pass any turnoffs. Use the guidebooks and GPS for support.

✔ Mileage: 9 miles / 14.5 km (if you take the cable car, 11 if you don’t)

⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~ 1000 ft / 300 m (if you take the cable car, 3550 ft if you don’t)

✔ Estimated hiking time: 5 hours (with cable car)

💤 Where to stay: Gai Soleil

Gai Soleil is a quaint and quiet hotel just off the main road in Les Contamines. There is a lovely yard to relax in after hiking all day. The rooms are basic but very comfortable with amazing views. Breakfast was great and there is wifi. I would recommend staying here.

Day 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

💪 This is one of the most challenging days of this 10-day tour du mont blanc itinerary.

Today you will climb over two Cols (mountain passes). You will see fewer towns and be pleasantly surprised by the beauty that is everywhere. Be prepared for lots of elevation gain and possible weather. It can get very cold (and wet!) at the top of the cols.

When you begin to descend from the second col, you’ll pass Croix du Bonhomme – a refuge. Stop here for hot chocolate or coffee but DO NOT stay here (outhouses, flies, no showers, etc).

BONUS: Look out and listen for lots of Marmots as you descend from Croix du Bonhomme!

✔ Mileage: 14 miles / 22.5 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 4500 ft /3000 ft down

✔ Estimated hiking time: 7 hours

💤 Where to stay: Auberge de la Nova

You will see the Auberge immediately as you descend into Les Chapieux (there isn’t much else here!). Try to get a private room if you can – unless you are fully comfortable sleeping in dorms. The dinner was one of the best dinners of the trek! Hot showers but no wifi or service.

ALSO READ: Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List 🥾 👚 👖 🧳

Day 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Cabane du Combal

🌀 One of the most beautiful days of the trek!

Today you will get your first view of Mont Blanc from the trail and cross over into Italy via Col de la Seigne. To begin, take a bus from Les Chapieux to Les Mottets (NOT Ville des Glaciers).  *SHORTCUT* This will cut about an hour and a half of walking on a skinny paved road which made sense to us (and most others).

There is a small wooden information center in Les Chapieux, just outside Auberge de la Nova. You can buy bus tickets here – try and buy them the night before in order to get the first bus, otherwise, you may have to wait until the 9 am bus (or just walk).

BONUS: When you get to Cabane du Combal, continue on another 10 minutes to see Lac Miage and the adjacent moraine – you’ll see the signs outside the rifugio. If you sit and listen at the top, you’ll hear small rockslides happen every few minutes as a result of the melting glacier.

The All Trails map linked below maps you to Rifugio Elisabetta. A lot of people like to stay here but I saw the sleeping area and would highly recommend continuing on to Cabane du Combal. It’s another 30 minutes and 1.5 miles on FLAT gravel road. Definitely stop at Elisabetta for a cappuccino though. You’ll have to climb up their long and steep driveway but it is worth it!

✔ Mileage: 10 miles / 16 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3400 ft / 1036 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 5.5 hours

💤 Where to stay: Cabane du Combal

Cabane du Combal is a very sweet rifugio with large, clean rooms and the dinner was really very good. They tend to get herds of ibex hanging around (hence their logo), so be on the lookout! We saw several here 🙂 Lastly, there is no wifi or service here.

ALSO READ: Tour du Mont Blanc Refuges: Everything You Need to Know

Day 4: Cabane du Combal to Rifugio Maison Vieille

🌀 One of the most beautiful days of this tour du mont blanc itinerary!

This was one of my absolute favorite days. It was a short day but SO beautiful. On several days you trek through villages and towns, but this day you are just in the mountains the entire time. You’ll be walking at eye level with glaciers and alongside grazing sheep and cows. Take your time and admire the beauty in every direction.

ALTERNATIVE ITINERARY: As much as we loved Maison Vielle, I recommend continuing past Rifugio Maison Vielle and booking a hotel in Courmayeur. Courmayeur is the largest town you will go through and a great opportunity to stay somewhere nicer, and it will balance out the distances on days 4 and 5. The Alltrails map below goes to Courmayeur.

✔ Mileage: 6 miles / 9.6 km (to Maison Vieille)

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1900 ft / 600 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 3 – 4 hours

💤 Where to stay: Rifugio Maison Vieille

As I mentioned, I would continue on to Courmayeur. However, if you choose to stay at Maison Vieille you can spend the afternoon lounging in lawn chairs and sipping on cold beers. This is a popular lunch stop for day hikers so it’s very busy and fun. They only have dorms – no private rooms, FYI. But, they do have wifi.

Day 5: Rifugio Maison Vieille to Rifugio Walter Bonatti

Maison Vieille is situated at the top of a ski lift. When you depart on day 5 you can either sleep in and wait for the ski lift to open at 9 am to take you down to Dolonne or you can walk down the very steep descent which will take you about 2 hours. * This is another reason to stay in Courmayeur because you can take the ski lift down in the afternoon the day before.

*SHORTCUT* We chose to save our knees and took the ski lift as soon as it opened. You have to take a Gondola following the lift which drops you in Dolonne. You’ll walk about 10 minutes to Courmayeur. Build in some time to walk around and get some coffee if you can because it’s very cute here.

Next, begin your ascent through a paved neighborhood and then into a popular wooded hiking area. Stop at the top at Rifugio Bertone for a snack and beverage and then continue on. Today is another day of hiking eye to eye with massive glaciers… in fact, you’ll be sleeping directly across from one at Rifugio Bonatti!

✔ Mileage: 9 miles / 14.5 km (from Maison Vieille)

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3600 ft / 1100 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 6 hours

💤 Where to stay: Rifugio Walter Bonatti

Rifugio Bonatti is situated directly across from a massive glacier – it is an unbelievable location. The rifugio is a little newer and offers dorms and private rooms that are quite comfortable and clean. The dinner was pretty good. You have to get a coin for the shower and only get 4 minutes. There is no wifi, but some service. Although, if you ask nicely the staff might share the wifi password.

Day 6: Rifugio Walter Bonatti to La Fouly

On day 6 of this Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, you’ll cross over into Switzerland. This is an absolutely stunning day of hiking, especially the climb to Grand Col Ferret (tough!). Prepare to see lots of rolling green hills, glaciers, cows, and sheep.

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3200 ft. / 975 m

⏳ Estimated hiking time: 7 hours

💤 Where to stay: Auberge des Glaciers

This Auberge is right in the center of town – as soon as you enter La Fouly you will see it. The rooms were cute (private) and the showers were hot! Dinner was delicious but it was an expensive auberge/refuge. Conveniently, there is a market right next door if you need to stock up on snacks.

Day 7: La Fouly to Champex

Day 7 is one of the easier days of this Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary. You will be in the forest most of the time. Look for wooden animal carvings along the whole trail. This day was very rainy for us – several people ended up taking the bus from La Fouly to Champex to avoid hiking in the rain. We were soaked by the time we got to La Fouly but ultimately we were glad we didn’t take the bus. You’ll pass through some really interesting and tiny Swiss towns today – not the most exciting day though.

✔ Mileage: 9 miles / 14.5 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 2000 ft. / 609 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 4.5 hours

💤 Where to stay: Hotel Splendide

I had originally booked Hotel Belvedere, but when we arrived I was informed I accidentally booked it for the night before. They didn’t have room for us the night we needed it but it ended up being a BLESSING IN DISGUISE. Belvedere was very dark and dingy and the husband of the husband-wife combo was RUDE. We went next door to Hotel Splendide which happened to have a cancellation. It was such a treat to stay there. The rooms are sweet and gorgeous – amazing views and breakfast!!

Day 8: Champex to Trient

This day was challenging for us, mentally. Not incredibly tough but it felt very long. This was the easiest stage to get lost, in my opinion. When you leave Champex Lac, stay on the main road through town, following the TMB signs. If you turn off the road too soon you’ll find yourself in a maze of trails and the GPS is unreliable here. You’ll see a large boulder with “bovine TMB” painted on it. This is where you turn off.

When you reach Trient, continue on another km (15 minutes) to reach Le Peuty – it’s on the map.

BONUS: If you do the main route and not a variant, you’ll pass by Alp Bovine, a small unassuming rustic restaurant in the hills. The homemade tarts are AMAZING. The views and atmosphere are warm and authentic. A must-stop.

✔ Mileage: 12.5 miles / 20 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 2800 ft. / 853 m

💤 Where to stay: Le Peuty

I booked Le Peuty on a whim because it looked unique and fun and wow am I so glad I did. This was one of, if not the top place of all the places we stayed in this tour du mont blanc itinerary. The atmosphere and vibes here are unbeatable. There is a dorm above the kitchen, a huge field for camping, and one private yurt. I booked early enough that I was able to get the yurt and it was awesome. The BEST part of our stay though was hands down the food. Dinner was cooked fresh from scratch and could have come from a multi-star restaurant. Breakfast was equally as delicious. Best food and best vibes of the trip.

Day 9: Trient to Tre le Champ

This was one of our favorite days of the TMB. Our bodies felt conditioned to the daily grind and the weather and views were gorgeous. You’ll return to France today, via Col du Balme. It’s a steep ascent to the top so stop at the top for a coffee or beer (and photos!). As you reach the top you regain an unobstructed view of Mont Blanc and it remains in site the rest of the trek.

✔ Mileage: 10.5 miles / 17 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3400 ft. / 1036 m

💤 Where to stay: Auberge la Boerne

The location of this Auberge is great, it’s very cute and rustic, unique, and has a very cool history. However, the dorm we stayed in was literally the size of a closet (not joking see pictures). It was fine – just funny. The dinner was also not very good – maybe the worst of the whole trip. All part of the experience though! I’d probably choose to stay here again versus hiking down into Argentiere if that’s any consolation.

Day 10: Tre le Champ to Chamonix

The final stretch! Today you will go through the “ladder section” which you will hear about during your TMB planning. It is a little nerve-wracking, but totally doable so don’t be deterred. If you have an intense fear of heights, you can avoid the ladders by doing the Col Des Montets variant.

We decided to take our first variant today and go to Lac Blanc. It adds on another hour or so and a bit of elevation gain but the views are worth it in my opinion. And the hike out of Lac Blanc is very cool and different from much of the rest of the path.

When you reach the ski lift, take it down to La Flegere, then continue on the TMB path to the Plan Praz gondola. This will drop you in Chamonix! Below is the trail map to La Flegere. If you want to do the Lac Blanc variant, just follow the signs once you get to the top of the ladder section.

There are a number of options to descend into the Chamonix valley (i.e. at La Flegere, Plan Praz, or further along) so decide what is best for you. We felt strong when we reached La Felgere so we decided to continue to Plan Praz. You do NOT need to buy lift cable car tickets ahead of time. However, make sure you get there before they close (5 pm).

✔ Mileage: 11.5 miles / 18.5 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3200 ft. / 990 m

💤 Where to stay: Grand Hotel des Alpes

Treat yourself! Stay at the Grand Hotel des Alpes , in the center of Chamonix. They have an amazing spa with a gorgeous sauna and hot tub area (this was the major selling point for me). The rooms are stunning and the beds are amazing just stay here!!

Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary Planning Resources

Blog posts, facebook groups, the official TMB website, GPS and weather apps, and guidebooks are all of the resources you will need to plan and hike your tour du mont blanc itinerary.

This Facebook group is very active and super helpful. People share their experiences, share all sorts of tips, and provide a decently accurate picture of what the current conditions and situation is on the trail.

I carried Jim Manthorpe’s Tour du Mont Blanc guidebook (2nd edition) with me and while it is not always 100% accurate, the detailed maps and elevation and distance charts were really helpful. He also covers all of the different variants available to you.

The official TMB website is a somewhat helpful planning resource. It is also the only way to book some of the refuges so if you plan on staying in mountain huts you will need to utilize this site.

Meteoblue is a helpful weather app to have – again, not always accurate of course but it’s more detailed than weather.com.

Tour du Mont Blanc Alltrails

While not always accurate, alltrails was the best GPS app for us. There are a number of route options that are downloadable. This way, if you don’t have service (which you won’t) you can still use the map. Alltrails has all of the traditional stages mapped out, as well as variants, alternative stages, and the entire loop even.

You will need to create an AllTrails account. Search for your desired stage, crosscheck it with guidebooks to make sure it’s accurate, and then download it. While you are hiking you will be able to go into the app and click on the respective stage and the app’s GPS will follow along the route.

FAQs About the Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

If you are just getting started with your TMB planning, I’m sure you have a LOT of questions. Don’t worry, everything will start to make sense and come together. It seems more daunting than it actually is. Hopefully, this FAQ gets you off to a good start!

What is the best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

August. I hiked this tour du mont blanc itinerary August 13th-22th and it rained two of those days. Earlier August you may see less rain, but I think generally anytime in August is a great time to hike the TMB. It was in the 80s in Chamonix, but higher up on the trail it was perfect hiking weather (60s and 70s).

If you go in June, you may encounter remnants of winter, in July it may be scorching hot, and in September it could snow. That being said, the trail will be busy June through September.

How much water should I carry on the TMB?

At least two liters. Although, you may need three liters during the hottest months or if you are planning on hiking longer distances than most people each day.

I carried two 1 liter Nalgene’s (I am not a fan of camelbacks) and never ran out of water. There are several water troughs along the route to refill if you are running low, although I recommend that you never begin the day with less than two liters just in case.

There are some occasions, particularly towards the end of summer, when the water is not flowing in all of the troughs along the trail. That being said, we found at least one water refill trough at every stage – and usually several.

How far in advance should I plan my Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary?

Approximately, 6 to 10 months. If you plan on staying in refuges/mountain huts along the trail, you’ll need to book them well in advance. I booked all of our accommodations about 7 months ahead of our trip. If you plan on camping you have some more freedom to start your planning later.

Do I have to start the TMB in Les Houches, Chamonix?

No, absolutely not! Les Houches is the “official” starting point, and made the most sense for us because we wanted to spend time in Chamonix before and after our trek. However, there are several other starting points – pretty much any main town along the path can be a starting point. The only other starting point I would consider, personally, is Courmayeur.

How do I book the refuges?

The refuges, also called mountain huts, rifugios, and auberges, depending on what country you’re in, can be somewhat challenging to reserve. They need to be booked early if you want a guaranteed spot, and they all have different booking processes. For more information on how to book the refuges, refer to my post Refuges: Everything You Need to Know .

What gear do I need for the TMB?

See my Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List .

What To Expect on The Trail

• A variety of weather! Make sure you pack for every condition.
• Wildlife! Specifically, marmots, ibex, chamois, vultures, deer, sheep, cows, and goats.
• Crowds. The TMB is one of the most famous treks in the world, you are going to be hiking with a lot of people. There are days when you may not see many people, but most days you will see a lot. One positive is that it makes the trek feel very safe and is a great option for solo female hikers.
• Wild berries! You will find wild blueberries along much of the route, and occasionally some wild raspberries.
• Water refill stations. As I mentioned earlier, there are several water refill troughs along each leg of the hike. Make sure to always pack enough water for the day in case they are dry. Check Facebook groups to know the status of the water before you go.

Wrap-Up: Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary 10 Days

So, if you are on the fence about hiking the TMB, let me just give you a little push. Allow yourself to breathe in the freshest of air, to gravel at the massive glaciers all around you, to sleep in places so remote that the stars seem brighter and more abundant than any place you’ve ever been. Give yourself a screen break, clear your head, and meet amazing people from around the world. Eat fresh homemade food every day, and drink untouched mountain spring water.

Use this Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary as a starting point – take what works for you and customize the rest to your needs.

Jade Gershen is the founder of Well and Good Travel. She has lived on three continents and explored more than 20 countries in the past 10 years. U.S. based, she also shares her favorite places to go and things to do in the States. Having experienced the impacts of chronic stress Jade has a particular interest in using travel and outdoor adventure to improve well-being and shares that with her readers.

9.9 out of 10 of our customers say they would recommend us to their family and friends

Alpenventures UNGUIDED

Responsible adventure travel, tour du mont blanc self guided itineraries.

GO do the Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

The Tour du Mont Blanc trek is the most iconic hike in the Alps. We offer itineraries of various lengths with the option for luggage transfer and the option for airport to airport service, meaning we'll book all your accommodation and transportation

Relaxed itinerary.

Enjoy the Tour du Mont Blanc to its fullest. This itinerary allows ample time to enjoy the villages and restaurants along the way and even includes a rest day in Courmayeur. Recommended for those unsure about their fitness level on the trail.

From 2,660€ Tax Included

Stretched Itinerary

Optimized for hikers who are interested  private rooms and/or luggage transfer, the 11-day Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary distributes the hiking days just right for those seeking comfort and civilization while on the trail.

From 1,800€ Tax Included

Comfort Itinerary

Complete the TMB in full comfort, staying in the best accommodations the TMB has to offer. We have planned this itinerary around the feasibility of luggage transportation, as well as our favorite accommodations along the route.

From 2,460€ Tax Included

Standard Itinerary

This is the classic way to do the Tour du Mont Blanc. A 10-day circuit of the tour is a challenge, but it gives enough time to cover the entire tour and to enjoy everything it has to offer. This is our recommended itinerary for most hikers.

From 1,640€ Tax Included

Rushed Itinerary

If you don't have the time to do the standard 10-day itinerary, this is a great way to complete the circuit on a tight schedule. This itinerary uses lifts and other transportation options to make the route feasible in 8 days. A high fitness level is required.

From 1,330€ Tax Included

This itinerary is almost the same as the 8-day Rush Itinerary, except it leaves off the last connection between La Flégère and Le Brévent. The last day on this itinerary is a challenge and the entire itinerary requires a high level of fitness.  

Ultra Rush Itinerary

From 1,150€ Tax Included

Northern Half Itinerary

When you don't have time to do the entire Tour du Mont Blanc, doing half of it is a great option. Beginning in Courmayeur and ending in Chamonix, the northern half of the Tour du Mont Blanc delivers incredible views and comfortable accommodation options.

From 910€ Tax Included

Southern Half Itinerary

When you don't have time to do the entire Tour du Mont Blanc, doing half of it is a great option. Beginning in Chamonix and ending in Courmayeur, the southern half of the Tour du Mont Blanc covers the most remote section of the trail, offering incredible views. The accommodation on the southern half is more basic than the northern half..

From 730€ Tax Included

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Tours must be booked as is. No modifications can be made. These itineraries are very limited and are first-come, first-served.

We have a limited selection of Guaranteed Itineraries for the Tour du Mont Blanc

These itineraries are pre-booked and reservations are guaranteed. There are very few of these itineraries remaining, and when they are gone, they are gone.

Self-Guided Classic Tour du Mont Blanc Express

Hike this quicker self-guided Express TMB through France, Italy, and Switzerland

• Self-Guided ,
• Inn-To-Inn ,
• Moderate to Challenging ,

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the best hiking tours in the Alps. For a quick trip around, our Express TMB can’t be beat.

Short on time? Start in wonderful Chamonix and hike around the biggest mountain in the Alps in 8 days. Incroyable! Cross high passes tour through all three countries. You’ll hike all day, see Mont Blanc from every angle, and reach a cozy inn each night. If this isn’t heaven, it sure is close!

We like to think of the TMB as a pilgrimage. There are jaw-dropping mountains, the three countries full of cultural flair, clear air and clean water. But there’s more than that. Everyone wants to hike the TMB, and you’ll meet people from around the world as you hike, at a small mountain huts at lunch, and maybe on the trail the next day.  Your fellow hikers will all share a sense of awe and accomplishment. It’s fun, and is part of what makes the TMB memorable.

This Express Mont Blanc itinerary is slightly modified from our normal 10-night TMB to avoid stops that book up a year in advance. The hotels are slightly simpler overall, with a couple pretty basic hiker’s inns, and a couple places where you’ll take the bus instead of a taxi.  We’ve dropped the extra nights in Chamonix, Courmayeur, and la Fouly, and have added a night in Argentiere.  This is a great itinerary for the on-the-go hiker.

• 9 days, 8 nights
• Jun 20 – Sep 30, 2024
• $3790 Per Person
• $1150 Single Room

Itinerary At a Glance

France, chamonix to les chapieux.

Start in dazzling Chamonix, right at the base of Mont Blanc.  Your first 2 hiking days on the TMB route lead through les Contamines to les Chapieux, where you stay in a simple hiker’s inn.

Italy, Courmayeur

Cross the Seigne pass into Italy’s stunning Val Veny, Mont Blanc towering above. You’ll stay the night in Courmayeur, a beautiful medieval village that invites exploration.

Switzerland, Champex to Trient

Hike across the Ferret pass to Switzerland, to the tiny village of la Fouly and transfer by taxi to beautiful lakeside Champex. From here, your choice of hikes leads either through forest and farms or over a high, rocky pass to Trient, your final stop in Switzerland.

France, Argentiere and Chamonix

Hiking up to the Balme pass from the French side, you come full circle on your tour with stunning views of Mont Blanc, Aiguille Verte and the entire Mont Blanc range. Descend to Argentiere.  Then enjoy one last hike as you return to Chamonix for a final night.

Your tour includes 8 nights in village hotels and hiker’s inns with all breakfasts and 4 dinners. Luggage transfers between all stops are included all nights, as well as select taxi transfers. You will also receive topo maps, detailed route descriptions, gps and sightseeing suggestions. We are always available by phone if you have questions during your tour.

This tour does not include arrival and departure transfers.  Please ask if you would like help with this.

Full Itinerary

For the Tour du Mont Blanc, fly to Geneva travel independently to Chamonix, the world-famous resort and mountaineering center at the foot of Mont Blanc. There are convenient airport transfers that can bring you right to your hotel for your first night in France.

Enjoy the ambiance of this beautiful village with impressive views of Mont Blanc. Stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in town. Dinner will be on your own in Chamonix, where there are tons of great choices (we’ll give suggestions).

Arrival: Geneva.  Plan to arrive by the day your tour starts.  You can book a private or shared shuttle from GVA to Chamonix.  The trip takes 1½ hrs.  We recommend booking early with Mountain Dropoffs or Chamonix Valley Transfers.

les Contamines

Leaving Chamonix, your Mont Blanc circuit starts with a cable car above the scenic Voza Pass to the lovely Bionnassay Valley, a quiet, wooded region with impressive glaciers and waterfalls, and capped by blinding peaks.

An optional (but recommended) ascent leads over the higher Tricot Pass to the Miage Valley, before descending to the quaint village of les Contamines.  Stay at the comfortable 4-star Hotel les Chemenaz, a quiet oasis with wonderful meals.

HIKE: 7-9 hours, 7 miles; Elevation: 2180 ft up, 4260 ft down

les Chapieux or Bourg St Maurice

Today the tour du Mont Blanc route leads you on a long ascent across two lofty passes, Col du Bonhomme and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. This a long day, but taken slow and steady, it’s not unusually hard, and there are many beautiful sights along the way to keep you going.

From the Bonhomme pass, descend to the tiny hamlet of les Chapieux, where you stay in a simple hiker’s inn.  There are just 2 small hotels in Chapieux, private rooms with bathroom down the hall.  If they are full, we’ll arrange a taxi from les Chapieux to a nearby village for the night, and back in the morning.

Note: no single rooms here

HIKE: 7-9 hours, 12 miles; Elevation: 4390 ft up, 3110 ft down

After a morning bus to the trail head, a gradual ascent through quiet alp pastures leads to the Col de la Seigne and into Italy. Here you’re greeted by an amazing view into the Veny Valley and the Mont Blanc range. The Aiguille Noire de Peuterey is particularly impressive from this vantage point, and Mont Blanc itself dominates the view ahead of you.

You might stop at the Elisabetta hut for lunch and have your choice of either the long high route to Col Checrouit, or continue down valley to la Visaille, where you can catch a bus to Courmayeur.  You’ll stay in the medieval village of Courmayeur, in a pleasant and friendly 3-star hotel.  Dinner is on your own in town.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 12 miles; Elevation: 3430 ft up, 3010 ft down

Start with a short bus transfer from your hotel to Arnuva, near the top of the Italian Val Ferret, where you start hiking.  You’ll enjoy more great views on your last morning in Italy while crossing the Grand Col Ferret and into Switzerland. You might sense the change to a new country, and a new culture.

Descend through tidy green fields with high cliffs and glaciers reaching down from the heights, to the tiny village of la Fouly, one of the quieter stops along the Tour du Mont Blanc.  Once you reach la Fouly, you’ll have a private taxi to Champex, a beautiful lakeside village seemingly made for postcards. Stay in a hotel in town, or the Arpette inn above Champex.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 9 miles; Elevation: 2840 ft up, 3380 ft down

You have two choices today, the pleasant wooded Bovine route, or the high, rocky Fenetre d’Arpette. For the Bovine, an undulating trail leads through alpine pastures and pine forests, with sweeping views of the Rhone Valley. Stop at the rustic Bovine barn for a drink or snack along the way.

Weather permitting, we’ll also give you a more rigorous possibility leading up to the high pass of Fenetre d’Arpette, one of the highest points along the tour. After climbing, climbing, climbing you’ll reach the narrow Arpette pass – a small notch in a rocky ridge. Descend a steep trail along the Trient Glacier and finish the day at a simple hiker’s inn in Trient.  Private room with bathroom down the hall.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 10 miles; Elevation: 2500 ft. up, 3040 ft. down (Bovine) or 7-9 hours, 9.5 miles; Elevation: 3950 ft. up, 4490 ft. down (Fenetre d’Arpette)

You’ll hike up to the Col de Balme pass separating Switzerland and France, coming back full circle to sweeping views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley.  Start the day with the steady hike up to Col de Balme from Trient, with a friendly restaurant perched right a the pass.

If you’d like to finish early, there is a gondola down from here.  A delightful side-trip to the nearby Posettes ridge leads to even greater views, with a meandering trail leading down through blueberries and alpenrose to the valley floor.  Either walk or take a local bus for the short transfer to Argentiere, where you stay in a 2-star hotel.  Dinner will be on your own in Argentiere.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 8 miles; Elevation: 3420 ft. up, 3050 ft. down

Your final hiking day of the tour is another great one, and a fitting finish to the trip.  One of the classic hikes in the region leads to Lac Blanc. This high-mountain lake sits in the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Preserve, a rugged ridge across the valley from Mont Blanc, and commands one of the greatest mountain views anywhere.

Make good use of local cable cars to enjoy more time hiking near the lake, and keep an eye open for bouquetin – a mountain goat with long curved horns that are frequently sighted in this region.  Spend your last night of the Mont Blanc tour celebrating in Chamonix.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 6 miles; Elevation: 3020 ft. up, 1590 ft. down

Today you say au revoir, and depart for your post-Mont Blanc destinations.

Departure: Geneva.  Plan departure for the day your tour finishes.  You’ll need to book a private or shared shuttle from Chamonix to GVA, and the trip takes 1½ hrs.

Tour Options

Self-guided, self-guided classic tour du mont blanc express.

• Big passes almost every day. Not too hard, but not easy either
• A moderate inn-to-inn with 8 stops in 8 nights
• Slightly quicker and more rustic than our 10 night tour
• Luggage transfers included all nights
• Guaranteed pre-booked departures
• A great tour for meeting other hikers from around the world

Self-guided Classic Tour du Mont Blanc

• A fairly strenuous inn-to-inn with 8 stops in 10 nights
• Luggage transfers included every night
• Slow down and enjoy! Extra nights in Chamonix and Courmayeur
• The highest peaks in the Alps, Mont Blanc, Grandes Jorasses and more
• $4290 Per Person
• $1450 Single Room

Self-guided Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc

• A fairly strenuous inn-to-inn with 7 stops in 10 nights
• 7 nights in deluxe 4-5 star hotels, private transfers, luggage every night
• The most luxurious version of the Alps’ most renowned tour
• Extra days in Chamonix and Courmayeur to relax and unwind
• $5990 Per Person
• $1950 Single Room

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MY WANDERLUSTY LIFE

#TimeBudgetTravel

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Vs. Guided: Which Is Best for YOU?

Last Updated: April 15, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith 2 Comments

Deciding whether you’ll hike the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided or with a guide is the first thing you need to do when planning your trip. And, naturally, there are advantages and disadvantages to both methods. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to this adventure, and while Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hikes may be the answer for some people, others may benefit from having a guide. (That’s me. I am “others.”)

This post will sort out the differences between the two methods, weigh the pros and cons of each, and (hopefully) help you decide which approach is the best for YOU. (.. .not the internet bullies telling you how you’re “supposed” to do it .)

Table of Contents

TMB Packing List 2024

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Hike: What does that mean?

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided simply means you will hike it on your own – no group, no fearless leader, just yourself (and whoever else you bring). However, “self-guided” can now actually mean one of two things.

It can mean you’re going to plan the entire trip yourself . You’ll be the one booking the refuges, deciding on routes, planning all the stops, and actually physically getting yourself from point A to points B through Z. The whole shebang. Think of this as painting a masterpiece from scratch.

However, it’s also possible to book a “Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided tour.” This means you hire a company to do everything for you except for the actually walking part. These companies will book your accommodations for you, map out your routes, plan your rest points, and more. All you have to do is follow their directions. Think of this as a paint-by-number.

It’s a little misleading that these are called “self-guided” as the term “self-guided tours” is somewhat of an oxymoron. Someone else is guiding you through the entire process, but since they aren’t physically guiding you around western Europe’s tallest mountain, here we are.

What is a Tour du Mont Blanc guided hike?

Taking a guided Tour du Mont Blanc hike means you’ll likely be hiking as part of a small group that is led by an experienced mountain guide. Again, you’ll have your accommodations, meals, and routes planned for you, but this time you’ll have an actual professional hiker leading you along the route each day.

While you can certainly hire your own private hiking guide for the Tour du Mont Blanc (baller!), booking a “guided” TMB hike usually means you’ll be joining a group of likeminded hikers. In this case, all you have to do (typically) is show up and hike the hike.

Also check out : Everything you need to know about how to wash your clothes on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Why choose to do the Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided?

Both the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided and guided options have their advantages and disadvantages, so let’s run through them. The following are the most popular reasons why you might want to take a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike:

You’ll have total control

By planning your entire TMB hike yourself, you’ll have total control over where you go, how fast (or slow) you hike, where and when you stop, how long you spend taking pictures and petting donkeys (spoiler alert: a seriously long time), and where you stay each night, among other things.

You won’t have to “hurry up” in order to keep a strict schedule. You can stop at unexpected places you find along the route or opt for a second beer if the mood strikes. And you can change course at the last minute or even take a rest day if you feel like it.

You can enjoy some solitude

By not hiking with a group, you’ll be able to experience plenty of solitude if that’s what you’re after. You’ll be able to hike on your own, enjoy some peace and quiet cowbells, not have to answer to anyone, nor have to listen to a fellow hiker ramble on about their ailments for nine hours a day. You can become one with nature, as they say.

Much lower cost

The cost of a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike is lower than if you book a guided one. You can book the refuges yourself and pay for your spot at cost. You can forego bag transfer and optional transportation if you want. And you can choose where you eat to save money.

You can even camp along the TMB and save lots of money by not paying for accommodation at all. You can make your own maps and forego the cost of professional guidance altogether. Plus, the costs will be broken up into more manageable chunks this way if you book everything separately.

Sense of accomplishment

Finishing a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike knowing you planned and executed the entire thing on your own comes with a huge sense of accomplishment. While many people say hiking the TMB is “easy,” it’s actually no small feat. Doing this self-guided, you’ll earn a significant amount of respect. (From me, at least.)

Reward yourself for a job well done with a photo at the TMB starting / finish line. Here’s where to find the TMB sign and how to get there.

Sense of adventure

Not knowing where you’re going half the time certainly adds to a sense of adventure. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc on your own, you’ll likely face a number of unexpected and unpredictable moments—positive or negative. This is what travel and exploration is all about after all!

Making friends

For some, the knowledge that you’ll get to make new friends along the route and in the refuges each night is a benefit to the self-guided approach. This is much more possible when you’re hiking on your own than when you do so with a group you’ll spend all of your time with for the whole tour.

The disadvantages of a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike

On the other hand, there are equally as many reasons that Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hikes are not the bee’s knees. Be sure to weigh the following disadvantages against the advantages I just listed.

So much room for error

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc isn’t the most difficult thing in the world, but there is plenty of room for error. While the paths are well-marked for the most part, someone pretty adept at getting lost may have a hard time here, especially if unexpected weather conditions force you to change routes in the moment.

Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Solitude / loneliness / boredom

I’m someone who definitely enjoys her alone time, but all day, every day, for a week or more? No thanks. The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most extraordinary experiences you can have, and to not have anyone around the share it with?

Personally, I would find that lonely and quite depressing, but that’s just me. Solitude may actually be an advantage for you. (And that’s perfectly fine!)

Similarly, I get bored when traveling alone. I still do it all the time, but I definitely prefer to travel with someone I already know well. There’s so much to see on the TMB, but not having anyone to talk to or explore with is just boring (to me).

You have to carry more stuff

When hiking with others or in a group, the lot of you will be able to (literally) share the load. Not everyone in the group will need things like a first aid kit, for example. So, individually you won’t have to carry as much. Lighter pack = better experience. Trust me on this.

You’ll miss out on so much

When you hike with a guide, you get access to his/her wealth of mountain-related knowledge. I learned so much from my guide—about the plants and animals we encountered, the foods and cultures, his personal experiences, and even about World War II. Yes, our guide took us to a couple of World War II bunkers in the mountains in Switzerland (without even knowing about my obsession with World War II travel ).

The TMB guidebooks are great (and I definitely recommend getting one ), but this is all stuff I never would have learned or experienced without our guide.

Also check out: The 10 Best TMB Tips You’ve Never Heard Before

Why choose a guided Tour du Mont Blanc hike?

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a guide and a group has its fair share of pros and cons as well. The following is a list of the benefits of taking a guided Tour du Mont Blanc hike.

You’re never alone

If you tend to, oh I don’t know, panic uncontrollably in these kinds of situations, a guided hike might be for you. Actually, it might be the difference between successfully hiking the TMB and never hiking the TMB at all. And that’s okay!

For me, never being alone on the trail was a huge selling point. Your chances of getting lost, injured, bored, or hungry are greatly minimized in a group. Also, if you’re a shy person or a solo hiker, always having someone to hang out with is a huge bonus.

Moral support

If you’re maybe not the world’s fastest hiker, there will always be someone there to encourage you along. (And you can do the same for them if you are!)

Attempting this on your own, you may be more inclined to call it quits or complain or just really feel down. The moral support that comes with hiking in a group can really propel you forward and help you accomplish things you never thought possible.

Accountability

Hiking in a group with a guide is another way to make sure you actually finish the TMB. Had I been hiking as part of a guided group on my second TMB hike, there’s a pretty solid chance I wouldn’t have quit after the first day. (True story.)

Always having someone else encouraging you on (and the societal pressure that comes with not wanting to look like a weenie) really speeds you up when you are slowing down and keeps you going when you just want to lay down and sob into the grass.

There’s always someone to take photos of you

Maybe this isn’t the #1 selling point to a guided TMB hike, but it shouldn’t go unnoticed! You will want pictures of yourself on this epic adventure. YOU WILL. When you hike on a guided group tour, there will always be someone around to take your picture—whether that’s posing in front of a cool mountain or just getting candid photos from them.

In my group, we all started a Whatsapp group on the first day. We agreed to take photos of each other, candid or otherwise, and share them in the group. It was a beautiful arrangement.

Without them, you’d have to either set up your tripod each time or attempt to put together a makeshift one on the spot. It’s so much easier to just hike with a bunch of people you can solicit photography from.

Meeting new people with similar interests

The reason I (almost) did the TMB solo and eventually did with a guided group is because none of my “real life” friends have the necessary combination of desire to hike for a week straight, ability to leave their jobs and/or families behind for that amount of time, or money to pay for a week-long Alpine hiking trip.

They all have job commitments, small children, and/or a serious lack of vacation time. Instead, you can join a guided group hike that’s made up of other people like you! You get to meet other hikers from around the world that share (and therefore can understand) similar lifestyle traits. Perhaps you’ll even make a new travel friend for future trips.

Wealth of knowledge

As I mentioned, when you hike with a guide you have access to his/her total wealth of hiking knowledge. This is such an incredible bonus that really adds context to everything you’re seeing and doing. It was such a valuable layer I didn’t know my TMB hike needed. (Ours even went to the local market each morning to pick out amazing local foods to fix us at lunch.)

You get to share the load

Also like I mentioned earlier, when you hike with others and a guide, you get to share the load. On my Tour du Mont Blanc hike, it was our guide who carried the first aid kit, our lunch supplies, and other necessities. Our group split up our lunch foods equally so we never had to carry that much.

A better celebration

At the completion of your TMB hike, it’s so much more fun celebrating this accomplishment with the other people who endured it all with you! Otherwise, you’re just a girl drinking champagne alone on a public bench.

You don’t have to carry tons of cash

When you self-book your TMB hike, you’ll have to pay for a lot of the refuges in cash. And since there aren’t any ATMs in the middle of nowhere, you’re going to have to carry a lot of cash around with you on your hike.

Having the entire hike paid for and handled by someone else eliminates the need to even worry about cash at all.

Interested in a guided TMB hike? This is the TMB hiking group I joined and LOVED!

The disadvantages of guided Tour du Mont Blanc hikes

Of course, there are also some aspects of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a guide that some might view as disadvantages. For example…

Higher cost

Hiking the TMB with a guide is more expensive than a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike. That is, if you compare a guided hike to the version where you plan the entire thing by yourself. The “self-guided” hikes prepared by the hiking companies and sold as packages (without a guide) actually aren’t that much cheaper.

While I feel you certainly get your money’s worth on a guided hike, it can still be a lot of money. That being said, we stayed in nice accommodations, had our bags transferred to our lodging each night so we only had to carry a light daypack, ate excellent meals, and never had to worry about anything.

Less freedom

Technically, on a guided group hike you have less “freedom” than if you hiked the TMB all on your own. Because the itineraries are set, there won’t be a lot of “winging it.”

However, I’d like the record to show that I never once felt constrained by being part of a group. If I wanted to stop for something or take a break, everyone was quite supportive of a quick rest. We all enjoyed stopping for beers and photo ops, etc. There was never an issue of wanting something I couldn’t have because I was part of a group.

Same people every day

When you hike with a guided group, you hike with the same people every day. This is great if you’ve made friends. But, if you get stuck with an unlikeable group or, say, a super clingy fellow hiker, you’re stuck with them for the entire trip. Luckily that didn’t happen to me and I’m sure it doesn’t happen often, but there’s always the risk.

Keeping pace

I’ll address this more in the next section, but if you’re a slow hiker, you may find it stressful to try to keep up with faster hikers. Just as fast hikers may feel weighed down by slower ones.

On a guided hike, you’re tied to one particular route. Because these hikes are highly organized affairs, your routes are preplanned and pre-booked and identical each time. If there was a certain variant you wanted to explore, you’d have to miss it.

Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided vs. guided: the biggest concerns

The biggest concerns for most people when choosing between a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided or guided tour are cost, company, pace, and ease of planning. I’ll relay a little bit about each so you can make the best decision for you .

Cost of self-guided vs. guided

The cost of hiking the TMB will vary depending on which approach you take. Planning the entire thing by yourself will be the least expensive. Booking a “self-guided” hike will cost more. Booking an all-inclusive guided group hike will cost the most. I’ll be breaking each of these down in an upcoming post. Be sure to subscribe below so you don’t miss it.

Which company to choose?

There are actually tons of Tour du Mont Blanc hiking companies that offer both guided and self-guided versions. Choosing a company to book with is therefore not an easy decision. I’ll discuss some of the most popular ones below.

Both fast and slow hikers worry about keeping up with a group pace. Slower hikers fear having to keep up with fast hikers, while faster hikers worry about being held back by the slower ones. Unfortunately, when you book a guided hike, you don’t know what kind of hikers you’ll be matched with.

This has been a fear of my friends who have hiked the TMB on their own and a ton of people in the online groups. I really believe that the issue of keeping pace is why more people don’t hike with a group.

As someone who hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc in 2022 with a guided group, let me tell you about my experience. Spoiler alert: the pace thing was not an issue.

There were definitely fast hikers and slow hikers in my group, and I don’t think it made much of a difference either way. (I remained solidly in the middle.) Even though we were a “group,” there was often at least a mile in between the fastest hiker and the slowest hiker. Both the faster hikers and the slower hikers could go at their own pace.

Our guide typically stayed towards the front but would often run back to the end of the group to check on the hikers in the back. No sweat. We all got where we were going. The faster hikers just got their beers sooner.  

I really just want to clear up the fact that, even though you’re “hiking with a group” doesn’t mean you have to all stay close together. This is not a chain-gang situation here; you’re hiking the Alps, not picking up trash along a highway. So if this is the thing that’s pushing you towards a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike, please remember this!

Ease of planning

Not all Tour du Mont Blanc hikes are created equal. Guided hikes cost more because the process of planning your own is such a pain.

Planning your own Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike

When you plan your own TMB hike, you do all the legwork of booking your own refuges, planning your daily routes, planning your water and food stops, planning your rest day(s), booking transportation, and coming up with a load of contingency plans.

This is by far the most cost efficient way to hike the TMB but it’s definitely not stress-free. It will take months of planning and lots of hassle. (I’ve done it twice.) Some people enjoy this part of the process but I’m sure there are some people who enjoy invasive dental surgery as well.

It’s not quite as easy as booking everything online . Many of the refuges are quite remote and don’t have internet access. You may need to call them (and communicate in French), or email them and wait long periods of time for a response. And when they’re full, you might have to alter your entire route to find a new one. Lemme just say… it’s a process .

Booking a self-guided hike

There are many companies that will do all that legwork for you. They sell “self-guided TMB hikes” where they have already booked the refuges and mapped out the routes for you.

When you book, you get accommodations, maps and information, and basically everything else you need to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc. They call it self-guided because you still do the actual hiking all by yourself, just using their plans. The paint-by-number approach to alpine trekking.

Planning a guided hike

Having already planned the TMB twice, this time I could just sit back and let someone else do all the thinking for me. All I had to do was hit “submit payment.”

I could just show up every day, hike the routes, and worry only about the scenery I was looking at and drinking enough water. Having my mind free of logistics and concerns made the experience so much more enjoyable.

Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided Vs. guided: How to choose

So, how do you choose between a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike and a guided one? It all comes down to understanding and setting your priorities.

To do this, you can make a list of all the TMB aspects (cost, pace, freedom, etc.) and list them in order of importance to you . Or, you can take that list and separate them into your own pros and cons columns. Keep in mind that you can’t have it both ways; you’ll have to compromise on something . Here is my 2022 priority list that you can use as a case study:

Priority #1 – Not getting lost

For me, not getting lost (and suffering a mountainside panic attack) – AKA – peace of mind was priority Number One. Peace of mind has quickly become my biggest travel necessity and I’m willing to sacrifice a lot of other stuff to have it.

I enjoyed the idea of not having to worry about my routes all day. I would be able to just HIKE and enjoy the experience without having my head in a map all day. Basically, I wanted to just not think at all. I wanted to walk and take pictures and shut off my brain as much as possible.

Priority #2 – Not wanting to do all the planning

My second priority was not wanting to do all the planning and booking for a third time. I’d already done it once in 2018 and again in 2019. I’d already been there, stressed about the confirmation emails .

While many people do enjoy this aspect of planning their Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hikes, I’d gotten that experience already and didn’t need to do it again. This time, all I had to do was make one payment to one single company and everything was set from start to finish. *chef’s kiss*

Priority #3 – Not wanting to hike solo

Priority Number Three was being able to hike with other people since I’d be going alone. I didn’t want to hike the TMB solo (as I’d planned to do in 2018), and none of my “real life” friends have the same desire, time, and funds to spend a couple of weeks hiking in the Alps. So, I joined a group.

My group consisted of 1 couple, 2 friends, and 9 solo hikers like myself. It was perfect. I still felt like I was on this journey alone, but I was never actually alone. I made lots of friends; everyone got along; it was beautiful. We all supported each other and took lots of pictures and cheers’ed beaucoup beers.

Priority #4 – Just finishing the damn thing

I had already tried and failed to complete the TMB twice before. In 2018 I never even made it over the Atlantic. In 2019 I quit after the first day. So, in 2022 I just wanted TO DO IT. I wanted to FINISH the damn thing already. And I knew hiking with a guided group would be what I needed to accomplish it.

Priority #5 – Luggage transfer

Another top priority for me was not having to carry my entire pack. Look, I am not lazy in the least bit and I am no wimp. I am quite active and possess what I would call an above average fitness level. But I am small—all of 5’3” and 100 pounds.

Carrying a 28lb. pack is almost a third of my body weight and the damn thing is more than half my height. (So all you 200lb men out there saying I’m a wimp for using bag transfer, that’s the equivalent of you carrying a 66lb bag. Please take this into consideration before you start trolling people just trying to have a pleasant experience.)

Most of the guided hikes include luggage transfer so that was a major selling point for me. Yes, you can book this service on your own. But again, that just means more choice-making and stuff-booking.

Live and learn

However, the first couple of times I planned the TMB my priorities were different.

• In 2018, low cost and a sense of accomplishment ruled my decision making.
• In 2019, it was low cost and a fun experience.

Having attempted the TMB twice before, my list of priorities changed significantly.

How to plan a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike on your own

It is possible to plan an entire self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc hike on your own. Here’s a short list of the needed preparations.

Decisions you need to make

Which direction will you hike in – clockwise or counter-clockwise? (I list the pros and cons of each in my post on TMB myths )

How long will you hike? The “average” is 10 days. I did the TMB in 2022 in 6 days. You can do any number of days you want depending on what you want to see, your availability, how long you want to hike each day, etc.

Which routes will you take each day? Will you take the common route or the variants? Will you take transportation shortcuts?

Which refuges will you stop in each night? Now book those refuges. If they’re already booked, try others in the area or rewrite your route accordingly.

When are you planning to go? How far in advance? Planning everything yourself will have to be done very far in advance. (Refuges are usually booked up for the summer come January.) Booking a guided tour can be done last minute as long as there are spots still open.

What else you need to prepare and plan

Get the right maps. The best TMB maps are the IGN TMB maps. You should be able to find them at the Intersport in Chamonix but you can also buy them here . I also highly recommend picking up a TMB guidebook .

Get the right equipment / pack the right stuff. Head here for my complete TMB packing list . (And sign up for the printable checklist version below!)

Plan for all kinds of contingencies. Consider weather, getting lost, getting injured, showing up to a refuge to find out they have no record of your reservation, having to change routes and show up to a place without a reservation at all, etc.

Plan out all the details. Where will you stop for food along the route? Where are all the water access points? And the best views?

Factor in a rest day and plan what you’ll do. Courmayeur, Italy is the most popular place for a rest day. Check out my full guide to spending a day in Courmayeur here.

Book your flights to and from the start of the hike. (Chamonix is the most popular starting and ending point. Flying in and out of Geneva is the fastest and easiest choice.)

Plan your pre- and post-TMB time. I recommend a few extra days in Chamonix before you start. Here are 22 awesome things to do in Chamonix in the summer .

Start your physical training. Concentrate on stairs and cardio. Start wearing a weighted backpack around your house. Get in some local hikes if you can. (I live at sea level so I just concentrated on improving the whole package with high intensity interval training at Orange Theory .)

Best Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided companies

If the look of the list above exhausts you, you may want to book yourself a “self-guided hike.” Here are some of the most popular and well-reviewed companies to book your Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided experience for you. (In order of how often I see them mentioned.) Note: I don’t have any personal experience with any of these.

• Macs Adventure
• Mont Blanc Treks
• Pygmy Elephant
• Salamander Adventures
• Alpine Exploratory
• Cairn Trekking
• Cloud 9 Adventure
• Bookatrekking
• Adventure Base

Best Tour du Mont Blanc guided tours

Likewise, there are many companies that offer guided TMB tours too. Take a look at what these offer to find the best one for you. These typically include an experienced mountain guide, luggage transfer, all accommodations, some meals (if not all like mine), on-tour transportation, etc. But each is different so double check the offerings!

• Intrepid Travel – This is the company I used. It was their first year leading guided TMB hikes but the experience was phenomenal. Highly recommend.
• G Adventures
• Watse Trekking
• Walkers’ Britain
• Cloud 9 Adventures

I hope I’ve been able to help you choose between a Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided hike or a guided approach. If you have questions I didn’t answer, always feel free to reach out. Hit me up on Instagram or leave a question in the comments below (and help out fellow hikers). Happy trekking!

More info for your TMB self-guided or guided hike

• Hiking the TMB? Find great places to stay all along the route here.
• Need a rental car? Check out the best rental car deals here.
• Don’t forget a handy Tour du Mont Blanc guidebook .
• Need hiking boots? Zappos.com is my favorite shoe shop.
• Need hiking apparel? I always start my search at Columbia .

Will you be hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided or guided? Let me know below!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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Best TMB Tour

Looking for the best tour du mont blanc trip.

Look no further. Alpenwild’s Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc   stands above the rest!   Alpenwild has perfected the TMB and here's what sets us apart from any other TMB trek:

Best hotels on the Tour du Mont Blanc  

No other tour operator on the TMB includes better hotels . For 11 nights you’ll stay in 3- or 4-star hotels, most will have a pool and spa services available. A few of our favorites are the Grand Hotel des Alpes in Chamonix, France, and the Chalet Val Ferret in Courmayeur, Italy. Every night you’ll have a private room—no packed musty dormitories or huts on an Alpenwild TMB. We feel that when you sleep better, you hike better!

Best Cuisine on the Tour du Mont Blanc  

On the TMB you’re hiking through three of Europe’s finest food regions—the Haute Savoie, the Swiss Valais, and the Val d’Aosta. With our focus on food you’ll enjoy the best of local specialties, cheeses, wine, and chocolate. All meals are included—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and trail snacks. We feature a la carte dining wherever possible at select restaurants.

Best Guides on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Many operators farm out trip leadership to third-party guides they’ve never even met prior to the tour. We use our own guides exclusively. They are intimately familiar with the route, history, and culture. They are certified and legally authorized to guide on the TMB. Most are native English speakers. They include professional World Cup skiers, an Olympic athlete, and skilled photographers. They are the best in the business. They bring the trail to life and provide you with an amazing experience! Want to know more? Meet them on our Alpenwild Trip Leader page. In addition to our top-notch guides, you'll interact with an expert naturalist to provide added depth and enrich your experience in the Alps. 

Best Excursions on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Though the hiking is the main attraction, Alpenwild also make sure to enjoy the journey by exploring some of the best excursions along the way! In Chamonix, France, our favorite experience is the Aiguille du Midi  and in Courmayeur, Italy, our favorite excursion is the Skyway Monte Bianco . Come with us on the TMB and you may get to experience both, depending on weather. 

Fully supported hiking | Daily luggage transfers

You’ll have your luggage waiting for you at the hotel every night , so you can have a light pack and enjoy the hike to its fullest. A shuttle is waiting to pick you up at the end of the hike—saving you from walking miles along a road to get to and from the trailhead.

Ultimate Flexibility – Guided or Self-guided

Alpenwild offers the TMB on both a small-group guided basis or as a self-guided tour. On a self-guided tour, you have both flexibility and support. You choose the dates, the standard of hotels, and where you want your luggage transferred, and we’ll create a custom itinerary that’s perfect for you. We get you started and we’ll be here for you every step of the way. Your vacation, Alpenwild's expertise.

Avoid the crowds

We’ve crafted a route with timing, lunch breaks, and accommodations that avoid the crowds swarming around the huts and cols. You’ll enjoy the TMB in a more peaceful and pristine setting.

True to the Tour du Mont Blanc

Our route is not a hodge-podge of dayhikes or a trudge along overly-trodden trails. It’s true to the mountain and an adventure in the spirit of Saussure’s first walk around the Mont Blanc Massif in 1767 —but with better hotels, food, and a lot more fun!  

Ready to take on the TMB?

We would love to have you join us in the Alps! Let us show you all of our favorite things about the trek and we're sure you'll come to enjoy it as much as we do. You can read more about the specifics of our TMB here .  

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Journeys worth taking

France, Italy, Switzerland

Tour du mont blanc: budget friendly, around the mont blanc massif in 10 stages.

Hotels, Refuges, Gites

Trip Details

Self Guided

From $2,125 USD per person

Pygmy miles

During this 10-stage hike around one of the most iconic Massifs in the world, you will experience Tour du Mount Blanc and the three countries it passes through on an amazing 170 km Journey. With over 10,000 total meters of ascent and decent, you will find yourself hiking to each of your accommodations accomplished and hungry for more. For this budget friendly trek, we have 8 nights of shared dormitories in the lively mountain huts, gites, and inns sprinkled through France, Italy, and Switzerland. With the energetic and communal atmosphere, they are perfect for meeting other world travelers and sharing your stories. You can always request a private room as well (everything is customized for you). In Chamonix and Courmayeur, we have included three star hotels (Hotel de l'Arve and Hotel Bouton D'Or), however we also work with four and five star properties as well. A few customization options are listed below:

• If you would like to reduce the hiking difficulty, we can easily adapt the itinerary to 11 or 12 stages. 
• Furthermore, rest days can be added in Chamonix and Courmayeur where there are a plethora of activities, cuisine, and lively atmosphere to indulge in.
• Baggage transfer to/from your accommodations is not included in this quotation. Please upgrade to comfort to include baggage transfers.

Itinerary options

Adjusting the hike to your budget and preferences, budget friendly.

• 11 Nights / 10 Stages
• Three Nights at 3-Star Hotels
• Eight Nights in Dorms
• 12 Nights / 11 Stages
• Three Nights at 4-Star hotels
• All Private Rooms
• Baggage Transfers

IN LUX AND STYLE

• 13 Nights / 11 Stages 
• Four Nights at 5-Star Hotels
• Private Airport Transfers
• One Rest Day
• First Day Guide 

BEST OF THE TMB

• 8 Nights / 7 Stages
• Six Nights at 3-Star hotels

HALF TOUR: EAST

• 7 Nights / 6 Stages
• France, Italy and Switzerland
• Great Infrastructure 
• 4-Star Hotels and Private Rooms

HALF TOUR: WEST

• 6 Nights / 5 Stages
• France and Italy
• More Remote

Trek 107 miles (170 km) around the largest mountain in Europe with an altitude gain and loss of over 6.2 miles (10 km), which is more than the height of Everest.

Wildlife Viewing

Along the trek, it is not uncommon to spot several species of wildlife native to the Alps. Of note are the chamois (a goat-antelope type species), and the marmot (looks a bit like a beaver).

You will visit tiny hamlets hidden deep in the mountains, experience awe inspiring views and challenge yourself along the storied and picturesque Alps. 

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a long distance trekking trail passing through France, Switzerland and Italy. The complete circuit is approximately 107 miles and has an altitude gain and loss of 6.2 miles (10 km), which is more than the height of Everest. The trail can be completed by marathon runners, however, it is comfortably hiked in 10 or 11 stages (for the very fit, 7 or 8 days will provide a decent challenge). 

Overnight in Chamonix

Take the day to enjoy the facilities at your hotel and get plenty of rest, because tomorrow your journey begins. Overnight at Hotel de l'Arve or a similar 3-star hotel.

Chamonix to Les Houches (5 hours |12.9 km / 8 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 2,104 m / 6,902 feet)

Climb on the gondola to ride from Chamonix Valley to the top of Le Brévent at 8,284 feet (2,525 meters). On your very first day, weather permitting you will have a clear view of Mont Blanc. After savoring the view, you will make your way downhill to Les Houches (3,300 feet / 1,007 meters). At 3 hours, today’s hike is short in order to ease your body into the physical demands of mountain hiking. Overnight at Hotel du Bois or similar 3-star hotel. (incl. Half Board)

Les Houches to Refuge Nant Borrant (7 hours | 22 km / 13.75 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 1,931 m / 6,335 feet)

Multiple transport options are available to make this trek easier. It’s about 2.5 hours to Col de Voza (Col = saddle), which sits at 1,653 meters (5,423 feet). You can take one of two cable cars to a point above the col (either Prarion or Bellevue) and walk down. From the col, it is then roughly 2 hours to get to Tresse, where a bus is available to take you into Les Contamines. Continuing past Tresse, you will hike through more hamlets before reaching the river, which you will follow all the way into Les Contamines. From Les Contamines, it will take approximately 50 minutes to reach Notre Dame le Gorge. Stop to admire the baroque church and the old roman bridge, before starting a steep ascent to Refuge Nant Borrant, which you should reach within another 45 minutes. Overnight at Refuge Nant Borrant. (incl. Half Board)

Refuge Nant Borrant to Refuge des Mottets (7 hours | 15 km / 9.5 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 2,205 m / 7,234 ft)

A beautiful, yet difficult stage, today you will be heading over Col du Bonhomme and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. After reaching the second col, there are two options, one which goes directly to Refuge des Mottets through Col des Fours (time savings of 1 hour), and one which continues down to Les Chapieux. If there is bad weather, or snow on the passes, it is recommended to take the lower route to Les Chapieux. Please note that you are now entering a more wild section of the TMB - there will be no ATMs until you reach Courmayeur. Still, there are quite a few shelters along the way. Overnight at Refuge des Mottets in four person dormitory. (incl. Half Board)

Refuge des Mottets to Courmayeur (8.5 hours | 23.6 km / 14.7 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 3,004 m / 9,855 ft)

Since you bypassed Les Chapieux the day before, you have a fairly easy 3-hour day in front of you passing over Col de la Seigne. If you have time constraints or wish to avoid staying in a communal dorm, you can combine this stage with the next one and overnight in Courmayeur. Overnight at Rifugio Elisabetta. (incl. Half Board)

Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti (4.5 hours | 11.8 km / 7.3 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 1,311 m / 4,301 ft)

It keeps getting better—today’s views of the Monte Bianco from the Italian side might be the best of the tour. After an initial climb out of Courmayeur which gains most of your elevation for the day, the main route follows an easy route along Mont de la Saxe with views of Mont Blanc and ice of the Val Ferret. For the more hearty walkers, two higher elevation alternatives exist, however the main route will take you about 5 hours to complete. Your day ends at Rifugio Bonatti, possibly the nicest and most well-equipped refuge on the tour. Overnight in private en suite at Rifugio Bonatti (spaces limited, inquire early to reserve spot; incl. Half Board).

Rifugio Bonatti to Ferret (5.5 hours | 16 km / 10 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 2,038 m / 6,686 feet)

Do you hear those cow bells? That's the sound of Switzerland. The high point of today's hike is the Grand Col Ferret (8,356 feet / 2,537 meters) and is a taxing climb that separates Italy from Switzerland. The TMB in Switzerland may lack some of the big mountain appeal of Italy and France, but it more than makes up for it with the idyllic landscape and quaint hamlets of the Val Ferret, the Swiss valley through which the TMB snakes. Overnight at Hotel Col du Fenetre. (incl. Half Board)

Ferret to Champex d'en Haut (5.5 hours | 18.9 km / 11.8 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 1,260 m / 4,133 feet)

After your long hike up Col Ferret, you are rewarded with perhaps the easiest stage of the TMB. Today's hike is through a valley dotted with farms and pastoral life. It's a throwback to a different time. Take your time here and let a slower way of life fill your day. Overnight at Hotel Splendide. (incl. Half Board)

Champex d'en Haut to Trient (5 hours | 14 km / 8.75 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 1,611 m / 5,285 feet)

Hikers have two options to reach Col de Forclaz and later Trient. The main route goes over "Alp Bovine", and Collet Portalo, the highest point of the stage at 2,048 meters above sea level. Although perhaps not as spectacular as the alternative high route, it still impresses with views of the Martigny Valley miles below. The path snakes its way across fields, meadows and forests and provides a good amount of elevation change and challenge. The long climb to Alp Bovine can seem to take an eternity. Be prepared for two hours of uphill. Carrying an altimeter can help you know how close you are to the top of the trek at Collet Portalo. The alternate route goes through Fenetre d'Arpette, and is a true high route. Overnight at Hotel La Grande Ourse. (incl. Half Board)

Trient to Argentière (6 hours | 16.1 km / 10 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 2,306 m / 7,565 feet)

Ah chérie, you have made it back to France! The trip from Trient to Argentière is not particularly difficult and you catch the first glimpse of the rounded peak of Mont Blanc since you left Italy. In France, you return to the Vallée de l'Arve, which appears at the foot of Mont Blanc, the Monarch of the Alps. Overnight at Gite Le Boerne (incl. Half Board)

Argentière to Planpraz (6 hours | 14.2 km / 8.8 mi | Elevation ⇅ - 1,592 m / 5,223 feet)

We've saved one of the most interesting treks with perhaps the most splendid views for last. The main route uses a number of ladder and chain systems to ascend to Tête aux Vents. If you have vertigo or are jittery with heights, there is an alternative route via Col des Montets that avoids the ladder section. After reaching Tête aux Vents, the route levels off and descends gradually to Refuge de la Flégère (4 hours). The refuge is a nice spot to sit and take lunch and gather your strength for the final push to Le Brévent, where you started your hike. Le Brévent has long been considered the best view point of Mont Blanc and is where many people stood to witness the historic first climb of the mountain. The final ascent to Le Brévent includes two ladders near the top; optionally, take the cable car down at Planpraz and avoid some 1,700 feet (518 meters) of climbing. Congrats! You've done it. Take the lift down to Chamonix from Le Brévent and enjoy your evening at Hotel de l'Arve. (incl. Breakfast)

After a leisurely breakfast, you have the day open until your flight to enjoy the town. Alternatively, why not have a spa day? You've earned it. Ciao! Au revoir!

Pygmy Miles Total

You earn 1 Pygmy Mile for each $1 you spend with us.

Hiking Distance

You earn 10 Pygmy Miles for every mile that you hike. Get fit and get rewarded.

Ascend More Feet Than Everest

The complete circuit is approximately 107 miles (170 km) and has an altitude gain and loss of over 6.2 miles (10 km), which is more than the height of Everest. If you make it all the way to the end, Pygmy Elephant will reward you with a 25% bonus.

Benefit Local Communities

A 25% bonus is given for supporting the economies of small hamlets, villages and locally owned refugios that may otherwise be missed if not for making the trek.

Total Pygmy Miles

Accommodation.

Hotel de l'Arve

Located in the middle of Chamonix, Hotel de l'Arve lies among its shops and cuisine. This lovely three-star hotel has 37 rooms, a wellness area and a flower garden with a view of Mont Blanc. Hotel de l'Arve will be the base for your first and last night.

Gite Michel Fagot

Les houches.

Located in the middle of Les Houches village, the Gite Michel Fagot offers a charming stay.

Refuge de Nant Borrant

Les contamines.

Situated 45 minutes from Notre Dame de la Gorge, on the Tour of Mont Blanc lies Refuge Nant Borrant. A cozy stay combined with a hearty meal will get you on the right track for the nest day.

Refuge des Mottets

Les mottets.

Once a dairy farm, the main lodge is decorated with old cheese-making tools and one of the dormitories is even a converted cow barn. A very unique stay and a tradition mountaineers paradise.

Hotel Bouton D' Or

A family run three star hotel, Bouton D'Or is located close to downtown. A favorite among hikers, the hospitality is second to none. A great place for a rest day, if you are inclined.

Rifugio Bonatti

Located at 6,640 feet (2, 025 meters) above sea level, this high mountain hut is a shining example of what a modern refuge should do. It features both dormitories and private rooms. The food is grand and so are the views. Not everyone speaks English, but enough of the staff does to make it comfortable.

Gite Bron Abri

Gite Bron Abri is a freindly hut right outside of town. The owner or somebody from the staff is always there if you need any help or information about the area. You can play table tennis or petanque and there are several board games as well. It accommodate up to 59 people in summer and 52 in winter.

Hotel du Col de Fenetre

Small typical Swiss mountain inn, located in the wonderful Val Ferret stage of the tour of Mont Blanc. The small hamlet of Ferret is located In the middle of nature, ideal for those who love silence and serenity.

Hotel La Grande Ourse

La Grande Ourse has both private rooms with shared bathrooms and small dormitories of up to 8 people. The rooms have been refurbished and provide a comfortable night’s sleep. Dining is together in the communal dining area.

Gite La Boerne

The inn is located in a mountain cottage dating back to the eighteenth century. With fantastic hospitality and great cuisine, this mountain hut represents what mountaineering and community is all about.

Practical info

The trek is only possible in the summer months, when the trail has mostly shed winter conditions. In late June, the Tour du Mont Blanc shows off its color with wild flowers, but there can be snow and ice on the passes. Heavy travel periods are between the middle of July and the end of August. September can be a great time for the TMB, when the temperature is a bit cooler and there are fewer hikers on the road.

Self guided

Self guided does not mean you are alone. We help you coordinate and plan your trip beforehand. Once you are on the trail, we provide 24-hour customer service in case there are any urgent issues with your bookings.

Service Category

Pygmy itineraries, pygmy itinerary benefits.

• Price Transparency: see where your money is going with line-item pricing
• Never Lose Your Deposit Guarantee : 50% refund, 50% credit to future trip
• Customized Handbook with Journey Details : maps, elevation profiles, tips and more
• Destination Book Digital Travel App : everything in your handbook, in digital form
• One Year Premium GAIA GPS Membership : your GPS routes, on your phone
• Complete Itinerary Customization : build the trip you want to take
• Special Meal Requests : we'll help you stick to your diet of choice
• Before-You-Go Email Series : helpful emails to get you prepared for your trek
• Transportation Options Information : timetables, routes and contact info
• 24/7 Phone Support for Urgent Issues : give us a call if anything goes wrong
• Email Support (24-hour turnaround) : answers for not-so-urgent questions

Challenge Level

Technical ability.

Level : Medium

Mental Strength

Physical conditioning.

Level : High

• According to La Chamoniarde, a society dedicated to the conservation and rescue of mountain activities in France, the Tour Du Mont Blanc "... is adapted to any well-trained hiker used to hiking on mountain trails and familiar with carrying a backpack. This well-maintained and well-marked route can be tricky if hiked before the end of June/ early July, when mountain passes may still be covered in snow (light crampons, trekking poles, and ice axe may come in handy)". If you have little previous trekking experience, a group tour or privately guided tour is suggested. When the passes are free of snow, no technical mountaineering equipment is necessary. Still, you should be able to use a compass and a map. As such, the tour is rated as medium for technical ability.
• Mental Strength is rated at medium because one must keep good spirits to complete the trip without transfers. Furthermore, the communal nature of the mountain huts can be loved... or hated. It depends on the mind frame of the traveler.
• Lastly, physical conditioning is rated at high if no transfers are taken. Using public transport, ski lifts and private transport, the physical conditioning can be reduced significantly. We can provide a thorough explanation of transport options on the route.

Approximately $2,125 USD per person, based on double occupancy

After initial consultation, we will customize your itinerary to meet your fitness level, budget, accommodation wishes and schedule. Depending on the journey, it might be possible to skip stages, rearrange their order, substitute accommodations, and add or subtract transfers. Find more information on the base itinerary and possible customizations below.

Base itinerary

• 3 nights at 3-star hotels
• 4 nights at gites and small inns
• 3 nights at mountain huts
• 10 breakfasts, 8 dinners
• Turn-By-Turn Guidebook
• Maps for west and east portions of tour

Customizations

• Upgrade to 4-star or 5-star accommodation in Chamonix or Courmayeur
• Upgrade dormitory rooms to private rooms (where applicable)
• Include more nights in hotels
• Increase or decrease number of hiking days, depending on fitness and motivation
• Add public transport to shorten stages
• Add in rest days 

Optional Add-ons

• Travel insurance
• Rest days in Chamonix, Courmayeur, Champex, or similar
• Extensions to Switzerland

Not included

• Airport transfers
• Dinners in Chamonix and Courmayeur
• In-situ transportation fees

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Talk to our Adventure Expert

Our Managing Director, Andrew, has been to over 40 countries in his quest for the perfect adventure. He has biked the death road in Bolivia, trekked 500 miles across northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago, cycled from Brussels to Florence and hiked the five sacred mountains of China. Pygmy Elephant is how he spreads his love for adventure and self discovery in the world.

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montblanctreks

• Dates & Prices

To win an 8-day guided trek in the Atlas Mountains, ENTER HERE!

Tour du Mont Blanc 'Best of' Self Guided Trek

Independent hiking on the tmb.

Trek in Brief

Suitability & grading:

GRADE 3 DIFFICULT See trek grading for further information.

Accommodation:

5 x 3* Hotels, 1 x Auberge & 1 x Mountain Refuge

3 x B&B in Chamonix & Courmayeur, 4 x half board (B&B + 3 course evening meal) whilst on the tour

Bag transfer:

Price depending on group size

Single rooms:

Available on certain nights

Not possible

Dates 2024:

To suit you / No availability

Dates 2025:

To suit you / Available

Arguably one of the most spectacular multi day treks in the world the Tour du Mont Blanc gives you the opportunity to get up close to the towering peaks and pristine glaciers of the Mont Blanc mountain range. This 'Best Of' Tour du Mont Blanc trek allows you to see the highlights of the trek in a shorter period of time by combining trekking and the use public transport to get you around the circuit.

suggested intinerary

Day 1 ARRIVAL IN CHAMONIX

As we are based in Chamonix please ask if you wish to have a self guided trek briefing to go through any aspect of your trek before you start on your adventure.

If you require a briefing on your day of arrival please specify at the time of booking so we can make sure someone will be available.

3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, breakfast

Day 2 LES HOUCHES TO CONTAMINES

Your day starts with a 20 minute bus ride from Chamonix to Les Houches. The bus will drop you off opposite the cable car, from here you take a ride to the Bellevue 1802m with stunning views of the Mont Blanc range from high above the westerly end of the Chamonix valley. You then have a choice of routes to Les Contamines via Bionnassay & Chapel or the Col du Tricot & Chalets des Miage.

Using the cable car Via Bionnassay: Distance: 15k | Height gain: +100m | Descent: -700m Via Col du Tricot: Distance: 13k | Height gain: +800m| Descent: -1300m

3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, breakfast included

If you are trekking via the Col du Tricot check out the Blueberry pie at the Chalets des Miage, very memorable and delicious!

Day 3 LES CONTAMINES TO REFUGE NOVA or MOTTETS:

A great day ahead awaits you, make your ascent through three cols, Col du Bonhomme, Col de la Croix du Bonhomme & the Col des Fours 2665m. Descending steeply through the wild and remote landscape to Chapieux and the Refuge Nova or Ville des Glaciers and on to the Refuge Mottets.

Distance: 20k | Height gain: +1500m | Descent: -900m

Dormitory (upgrade possible), evening meal & breakfast

On paper this looks like one of the longest and toughest days on the trek but don’t worry its very doable. There is a fair amount of height gain but it is integrated with sections of gentle terrain, which make the day more manageable. The key is to start early and allow plenty of time.

Day 4 REFUGE NOVA or MOTTETS TO COURMAYEUR:

If staying at the Refuge Nova you take the bus to Ville des Glaciers and continue on the trail to the Refuge Mottets. The Refuge Mottets is situated in a great position below the Col du Seigne 2516m, although you climb steeply at times you soon find ourselves over the col & across French/Italian border into Italy. You then make a descent into the stunning Val Veny with easy walking through the hanging valleys to Lac Combal. From here you descend La Visaille and take the shuttle bus to Courmayeur.

Distance: 14k | Height gain: +700m | Descent: -700m (with shuttle bus)

Distance: 24k | Height gain: +1100m | Descent: -1700m (full route)

Accommodation: 3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, B & B

One of my favourite days on the Tour du Mont Blanc, the views from the Col du Seigne is second to none! Once you are at the col & if the weather is right rest for a while and take in the far-reaching views in to Italy & Switzerland, just wonderful!

Day 5 COURMAYEUR TO CHAMPEX

You will start the day by taking a bus or taxi from Courmayeur to Arnurva and then make your way past the Refugio Elena and on to the Col du Ferret on the Italian/Swiss border and descend to Ferret and La Fouly. You will then take a bus to Champex Lac via Orsieres. All transport details are given in the self-guided pack.

Distance: 14k | Height gain: +800m | Descent: -800m

3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, evening meal & breakfast

Again this day looks tough but the hard bits are nicely spaced with less challenging terrain and once at the Col stare in wonder at the view looking back at your last 3 days of trekking towards the Col du Seigne and over the boarder into Switzerland. The descent is long but at an easy angle and the path is good. Plenty of opportunity to stop for refreshments at Arnurva, Refuge Elena and La Peule.

Day 6 CHAMPEX-LAC TO TRIENT:

An initial easy start to the day is to be had as you wind our way on easy paths to Plan de l'Au. You then climb up steadily to the Alpage Bovine 1987m and enjoy fabulous views over Martigny and the Swiss Valais. You spend the rest of the day making your descent to the Col du Forclaz 1526m with a final descent to Trient.

Distance: 18k | Height gain: +750m | Descent: -950m

Auberge with private rooms & shared facilities, evening meal & breakfast

The Bovine route is a fabulous day not too tricky over lovely terrain. Lunch stop at the high alpine farm at Bovine is a must, you can purchase local food or even eat your own picnic on the terrace as long as you buy a drink. Amazing views across to Lac Leman and down the Rhone valley.

Day 7 TRIENT TO ARGENTIERE:

Again today you have two options as you can take the route directly to the Col du Balme from Trient or by following the variant up through alpine woodland to the Alpage of Tseppes, Catogne and on to the Col du Balme 2191m and the Swiss/French border. From the col you then make our descent to the hamlet of Le Tour where you will take the bus back to Chamonix. A fabuous end to this Mont Blanc trail.

Direct via the Col du Balme: Distance: 13k | Height gain: +900m | Descent: -900m or Via Catogne & the Col du Balme: Distance: 15k | Height gain: +1000m | Descent: -1000m

3* Hotel private en-suite rooms, evening meal & breakfast

Personally unless the weather is bag take the route via Catogne, the views are far superior as one up high you take a lofty traverse with excellent views over towards Emossom dam and the Aiguille Rouges nature reserve Stop if you dare at the refuge at the Col du Balme. Service with a grimace rather than a smile!

Day 8 DEPART CHAMONIX

Breakfast is included however on the departure day you are free to leave at any time you wish.

Once you have completed the trek I hope you will agree that the Tour du Mont Blanc is truly an exceptional trek & has a worthy place as of one of the worlds top 10 long distance walks.

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Everything You Need To Know About Hiking The Tour du Mont Blanc

A s an avid hiker, you’ve probably heard of the Tour du Mont Blanc or TMB hiking trail. You might even have plans to conquer this popular hiking destination one day. If so, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

In 1760, a Swiss Geologist and physicist, Horace-Bénédict de Saussure, then living in Geneva, discovered the TMB hiking trail. Saussure wanted to explore the Mont du Blanc Mountains to examine and document plant specimens. Also called the Mont Blanc massif, the mountain range is 60 miles by 20 miles long, with 11 summits over 4,000 meters high. Though he discovered it in 1760, Saussure first walked around the entire TMB hiking path in 1767.

Unfortunately, the Swiss scientist failed to climb one of its peaks on that initial journey around the path. The first to achieve this feat were Michel Paccard and Jacques Balmat. The two found a path to the apex in 1786 through the Grands Mulets route. Sausurre became the third person to reach the summit shortly thereafter.

Trail Overview 

Though Pacard and Balmat first reached the peak of the Mont Blanc massif via the Grands Mulets route, the Gouter route is today’s standard path. This trail is 105 miles long and passes through 3 countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland . The Gouter Route (also known as the Voie Des Cristalliers and Voie Royale) is one of the two most commonly utilized routes to reach the summit of Mont Blanc in the Alps. Though the Gouter route reaches an elevation of 15,774 ft, it is considered the most straightforward ascent. The route lies on the north side of the mountain, in France, seeing thousands of mountaineers annually. 

The Tour du Mont Blanc difficulty level is somewhat subjective to the hiker. The Gouter route is relatively easy because it takes about two days to reach the ascent and does not require extensive technical skills. Nonetheless, it is physically demanding and mentally challenging if you lack athletic ability. The most difficult aspect of this route includes a narrow passageway of unstable rocks on the mountain’s edge. Seventy-four have died, and 180 were injured in accidents along this dangerous segment between 1990 and 2011. 

Once passing this tricky part, the Gouter route is smooth sailing. It steadily increases in steepness while crossing exposed terrain. Hazardous weather conditions are the most dangerous aspects that remain. Cold and wet conditions can cause hypothermia and frostbite. Therefore, visiting the Tour du Mont Blanc for Summer hiking, Mid-June to mid-September, is safest. During the summer, temperatures will range from 40 degrees at night to 80 degrees during the day. Some days require shorts beneath a warm, sunny sky ; others might entail brisk, wet conditions.

Permits And Regulations

No permits are required for the TMB and there are no regulatory restrictions. However, some believe a technical skills test could reduce deaths and injuries along the path. Additionally, residents are disturbed by the amount of trash that hikers inevitably abandon to lighten their loads on the ascent. What’s interesting about the Tour du Mont Blanc is that there are many comforts along the path in the form of hotels and huts. Several companies offer self-guided packages that include accommodations, detailed hiking guides, and set itineraries. 

Trail Highlights And Points Of Interest

The Tour du Mont Blanc hike is considered one of the world’s top ten “bucket list” hiking trails. In addition to the soothing sounds of waterfalls , there are glaciers, streams, high alpine meadows, and the natural beauty of the Mont Blanc landscape. Among the most beautiful and visible flora are the rare Slipper Orchid, the Martagon Lily, Aquilegia Alpha, the famous Edelweiss, and rare Campanula thyrsoides. Though heavily impacted by human presence, the animals that remain in the wilderness of the Mont Blanc massif include Marmots, Ravens, Goats, Mountain Hares, Vultures, and Eagles, among others. 

Safety Considerations

On the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail, the most important considerations will be comfortable shoes and a good quality backpack with appropriate dimensions and weight.  What qualifies as an appropriately sized bag will depend on whether you stick to hiking the trail or detour slightly to local huts and hotels. The former will require a 60L bag, and the latter will require a 30L bag. Remember to break in your footwear a few months in advance and buy shoes larger than usual to accommodate swollen, achy feet. Trekking poles will help lessen aches and pains experienced in the knee and leg muscles. Hiking crampons are a “better safe than sorry” item to add to your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. They will help maintain balance and avoid slipping across waterways and snow patches, which might even save a life! 

In case of an emergency, administer first aid, note location and grid reference on a map, call for help (cell phone service is generally available along the TMB). If no phone is available, blow a whistle or flash a flashlight six times. If there is an injured person, carefully consider whether to go for help or stay with the injured. If the injured party stays behind, leave them with food, water, and warm clothes. 

Planning and Preparation

Being physically prepared for the TMB hike is a necessary safety precaution. Training should start at least three months in advance and should be in layered clothing, hiking boots, and a fully packed backpack to best simulate trail conditions. Other things that require planning include booking accommodations along the trail and deciding how many days to stay. An itinerary will vary depending on whether two days, two weeks, or even two months are set aside to experience the beauty of TMB. 

Most hikers can ascend the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided if interested. The trail is easy to follow, with well-maintained paths, directional markings, and clearly understood signs. However, map reading skills are essential, and hikers should also carry a guidebook. 

People Ask: Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Q: What is the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail?

A: The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170-kilometer hiking trail that circles the Mont Blanc massif in the Alps, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Tour du Mont Blanc?

A: The entire trail takes about 10 to 12 days to complete.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

A: The best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is from mid June to mid September, when the weather is typically mild and the trails are clear of snow.

Q: Are there any accommodations along the trail?

A: Yes, there are many accommodations available along the Tour du Mont Blanc, including hotels, hostels, and mountain huts.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide for the hike?

A: No, it is not necessary to hire a guide for the hike. The trail is well-marked and there are many resources available for hikers.

Q: How difficult is the hike?

A: The hike is considered to be moderately difficult, with some steep ascents and descents.

Q: What should I pack for the hike?

A:You should pack appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothing, and rain gear. You should also bring a map, a compass, and plenty of water and snacks.

Q: Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?

A: Yes, there are some safety concerns to be aware of, including potential hazards such as steep drops, loose rocks, and unpredictable weather. It is important to stay on the marked trail and to be prepared for changing conditions.

Q: Can I hike the trail in sections?

A: Yes, it is possible to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in sections, with many hikers choosing to focus on one or two sections at a time.

Q: What are some of the highlights of the hike?

A: Some highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc include stunning views of the Alps, charming mountain villages, and the opportunity to experience the unique cultures of France, Italy, and Switzerland.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a renowned hiking trail accommodating hikers from across the globe. It is mentally and physically challenging, but efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views along the route. The TMB is accessible with or without a guided tour, as there is food, water, emergency services, accommodations, and other modern amenities along the path. With a reasonable amount of advanced preparation, physical training, thoughtful packing, and a conscientious “Leave no trace” mindset, this unforgettable journey is worth experiencing for yourself.