tour de mont blanc switzerland

• Chamonix Run Festival June 7th to 9th, 2024
• Weekend of 25 & 26 May 2024 was busy for the Chamonix PGHM
• The Panoramic Mont-Blanc Lift opens 25 May 2024 for the summer season!
• Gondolas, cable cars & trains open May 2024 in Chamonix
• End winter season at Grands Montets Freeride day Sunday 5 May 2024

At the foot of Mont Blanc (4808m or 15,770ft), the highest mountain in western Europe, Chamonix's alpine town atmosphere

The resort of Chamonix has three 5 star hotels, eleven 4 star hotels, twenty two 3 star hotels, thirteen 2 star hotels

Since 1934, Snell Sports has been the largest mountain shop in the Chamonix Valley.

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Tour du mont blanc hiking - routes, maps and itineraries.

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a 170 km trek that encompasses the whole of the Mont Blanc Massif; with nearly 10 000m of cumulative descent and ascent it is usually completed in a number of days.

The TMB has a variety of accommodation facilities along the route (hotels and mountain huts with possibility for vehicle support) that allow you to really enjoy the scenery, take lots of photos and walk each day with just a light pack.

Alternatively, the TMB can be done completely self-sufficiently: you carry all your own food and camping gear. This gives you a better sense of freedom and the ability to go where you please whenever you want.

Tour of Mont Blanc General Information

Mont Blanc Tour mountain huts are open, in general, from mid-June until the first or second week in September. It is advisable to reserve a bed, particularly in the high season of mid July to mid August.

Early in the season is the quietest and most beautiful, but beware of old snow on the higher paths which could be icy and dangerous and would make an ice axe essential.

For additional safety or to just show you the way you could hire an Independent Trek Leader .

Wildlife on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Have a look at the Chamonix.net nature, fauna and flora page  for more information on wildlife you might encounter on the Tour of Mont Blanc. Chamois, deer, eagles and a range of beautiful alpine flowers can all be seen and photographed.

Tour du Mont Blanc Maps, Kit List and Equipment

Lightweight boots and shorts are sufficient as long as there are warm clothes in your backpack. Waterproofs are essential and trekking poles useful. Here are some of the best mountain equipment shops in Chamonix .

Do not forget sunglasses, skin and lip protection. Always carry drinking water and check the Chamonix weather forecast before starting your journey.

Maps for the Tour of Mont Blanc:

Tour of Mont Blanc - Route Descriptions

You have plenty of options: from 4 day sportive hikes to leisurely 12 day cultural experiences; there is not only one way to do the Tour of Mont Blanc. Here are a couple of different suggestions which may help you make up your mind on your particular style.

• You can go on your own with your own GPS track, or benefit from a mountain leader's experience
• You can carry your own gear or hike with a light pack with vehicle support
• You can sleep and eat in the refuges or carry a tent

Here is a list of contact information for the various mountain huts .

4 day trip: Not quite racing - but fast enough: For the hardcore hiker

This itinerary follows pretty much in the footsteps of the Ultra Trail race (which varies slightly from year to year). This is for very fit hikers and is done with only a light day pack, eating and sleeping in huts and is basically the run/walking version of the Tour du Mont Blanc. The times noted are for fit spandex-wearing (not obligatory!) hikers.

7 day trip: Hiking the Tour of Mont Blanc - hiker

Start with the previously mentioned itinerary and break up the days a bit depending on where you would like to spend the night.

For people who carry their own gear, plan on a 7 day trip.

9 to 11 day trip: Taking the time to look at the scenery

Of course if you really do have time, you can expand the experience. Here's an example of a slower pace, with time to veer a little off the path. This is described as an 11 day trip, but it would be really easy to knock off the first and last days as those days are dedicated to trekking in the Chamonix Valley.

Each year, in the last days of August, the trails around the Mont Blanc get really busy. This is because of one of the most amazing human competitions ever organized on this planet - The Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc - so keep this in mind when planning your hike of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

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Planning for the Tour du Mont Blanc

After reading this Trek article almost two years ago, I put the Tour du Mont Blanc on my bucket list and mostly forgot about it. Until this past November, when I started longing for warmer weather and snowless hiking. As I tend to do when I’m nostalgic for my hiking fix, I started researching potential trips. Since I had finished my section hike of the Appalachian Trail in August 2017, I needed new trips to obsessively plan while I was in the throes of winter depression. I decided that for this summer, I wanted a hike that was something I could do in one shot and not have to break into sections. And I really liked the idea of getting out into the larger world, and backpacking around the Alps sounded like a blast. So I started planning. All I can say is, thank goodness for Google Translate.

How to Hike Tour du Mont Blanc

1: overview.

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a loop hike of ~110 miles with ~30,000 feet of elevation gain (and subsequent loss) that circumnavigates Mont Blanc massif, a 16,000-footer in the Alps. The trail’s highest point is 8,700 feet, which is not high enough to cause altitude sickness in most people. It’s easiest to fly into Geneva (though there are many other options for transportation if you want to get creative and fly into other parts of Europe), and then take a bus or shuttle the 1.5-hour drive to Chamonix (pronounced sha-mo-nee), France, where most people start and end their hike. The trail goes through France, Italy, and Switzerland. It’s typically hiked counterclockwise, to make the elevation more gentle and put better views at the end. The trail has a classic route, with many variants as options to make it more challenging or, in one case, to avoid a section with metal ladders.

Courtesy of Flickr

It’s a popular trail for Europeans going on vacation during their summer break – July and August. Some Brits go adventuring on the Tour du Mont Blanc as well, but it’s pretty uncommon for Americans. Of the people who hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, something like 95 percent of them are either on a guided or self-guided tour. Unsurprisingly, it costs a lot to pay someone else to plan this for you; I saw anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 beyond the actual costs of the reservations. Many places offer the option of having your bag carried from hut to hut by donkey. If you’d like to pay REI $5,400 (doesn’t include transportation costs), you can do the Alps in style.

It’s worth noting that none of the guided trips and very few of the self-guided trips I found offer the option to hike the entire Tour du Mont Blanc . Almost every single one cuts out portions of it, and uses chairlifts to avoid longer ascents or descents. This didn’t sit well with me; I wanted to hike the entire Tour du Mont Blanc end to end, and I wanted to know where we were going and why. And I’m very frugal and the idea of paying someone else to plan my trip was physically painful to me, so I dug into it on my own.

The most popularly recommended guide book by far is The Tour of Mont Blanc: a complete two-way trekking guide by Kev Reynolds . It’s a comprehensive guide to hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, offering a lot of description about the trail’s surrounding landscape, with information about lodging, services, and towns. As a whole, they mainly offer phone numbers for each place of lodging, though sometimes websites are noted as well. I would recommend purchasing the book ($18) if you’re thinking about doing the Tour du Mont Blanc – it is worth the money. However, as a number-crunching hiker, it didn’t offer me quite what I wanted. The distance was only provided as totals for each section and the elevation profiles were so small, they were relatively worthless. I wanted something like The AT Guide or the Thru-Hiker’s Companion . As I couldn’t find this information anywhere, I ended up making my own mileage and elevation tables in Excel. I also ended up purchasing this map ($20); it took me a bit to find the Tour du Mont Blanc on the map, but once I did, it helped me with my planning process. There is also a really helpful interactive map here on the Autour du Mont-Blanc website.

For those who might want to tent camp the Tour du Mont Blanc, know that it’s more complicated than it might first appear. Not only can it be challenging to bring camping gear on an airplane, it’s illegal to wild camp along the entire TMB, except in emergency situations above 2,500 meters, including outside a hut. While there are often campgrounds in or near towns, it can make your mileage more complicated. Or you could do dispersed camping and risk the consequences of being caught – $650 fine per tent. Besides, who wants to carry a heavy pack when you really don’t have to? And showers every day can be so nice! There are a number of online resources available discussing the Tour du Mont Blanc as a tenting vacation, if desired. If I like the TMB, I may return in the future with a tent, but for now, I’d just as soon reduce the number of things that I need to worry about.

2: Transportation and Travel Dates

So first things first – what time of year to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc? Most hostels don’t open until mid-June, because there can still be substantial snow in the mountains up until the beginning of June. If you’re hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in June, it’s recommended that you check that huts and hostels will be open and bring traction devices like Microspikes. Yearly snowfall makes a difference, and if it hasn’t melted yet, some sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc can be completely impassable in June. July through mid-August are busier times of year, with Europeans on break, and July gets more rain than August or September, though all services are open and you’ll have warmer weather. Mid-August through the mid-September are generally nicer, with less people, less rain, and cooler weather. However, many hostels close in mid-September, so it can cut down on your lodging and refueling options if you go any later than that. And oh, there’s also an ultramarathon of the TMB each year in mid- to late August, so you may want to avoid those dates; it will be an absolute zoo. I had wanted to hike in mid-June but due to work and other summer hiking plans, I was locked into hiking this trip in mid- to late-July.

I used Google Flights , Scott’s Cheap Flights , and FareCompare to track the cost of various flights. Google Flights is a good tool to compare different departure locations; for my location, Boston was by far the cheapest. I kept an eye on the deals and jumped at round trip tickets for $633 per percon back in January. Most flights to Europe during the summer quickly work their way towards $1,000+ for a round-trip ticket. Buy earlier, and keep your eye out for flash sales.

Our economy tickets include one free checked bag. For the flight there and back, I’ll be putting my backpack inside a duffel bag that can be packed down once we arrive. The first hostel we’re staying at in Les Houches will hold a small bag for a euro per day, so we may leave the packed duffel bags and some town clothes in a small bag with them and retrieve them when we stay there again on our next-to-last night.

Something that came up for me as I began preparing my supplies was realizing that international travel can make it challenging to take medication. As someone who needs to inject medication, it was that much more complicated. So, the bottom line is this: for traveling to Europe, all prescription medication should be in its original container with the prescription label noting it’s yours. For traveling with syringes, you will also need to have a letter from your physician noting the medical necessity or they could be confiscated.

Shuttles Between the Airport and Chamonix

Most round-trip shuttles between the airport and Chamonix cost between $140 and 175. I found this prohibitively expensive, so I explored my options for bus and train travel. As best as I can tell, there isn’t a train station at the airport, so you would need to travel from the airport to a local train station. There are more public buses leaving from the Geneva bus station, but that’s a few miles away from the airport. I ended up settling on the Ouibus , as it’s $47 for a round-trip ticket and they leave from the airport every two hours and drop off in Les Houches and Chamonix. They also offer free rescheduling of your ticket if you reschedule 30 minutes or more in advance of the bus’s departure, and have a handy app to help you navigate that process. It does mean that we’ll end up returning to the airport for our flight home maybe an hour earlier than required, but it’s worth the price differential.

Reservations

I flailed around for a while, trying to figure out the best way to put in reservations for lodging on the trail. I was overjoyed when I found the Autour du Mont-Blanc . This is a wonderful site, and it’s almost everything you need to plan lodging for trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc. They help you plan an itinerary , based on where you’ll be starting and which direction you’ll be going. Once your starting point and direction are established, it will show you the nearest hostels and huts by walking distance, and also provides a lot of information about the services at the huts and hostels. Once you create an itinerary, it will assist you in reserving space at all of those places that offer online reservations. It will also tell you which places you must contact directly. Between this website, Google, and Kev Reynolds book, I was able to locate email addresses for all lodging that didn’t take online reservations, and placed all my reservations without making any phone calls. Before leaving on the trip, be sure to print out your reservation emails as proof. I read stories of people’s private room reservations not being respected because they hadn’t followed the directions to print out their reservation email as proof.

For Chamonix and Courmayeur, I found hotels through online searches. I found the hotels search within Google Maps to be the cheapest and most thorough option. For Courmayeur, we’ll be staying at Hotel Berthod ; in Chamonix, we’ll be staying at Le Vert Hotel . They were among the least expensive options, and both have excellent ratings on Google and TripAdvisor.   

When I placed my reservations, I paid 335 euros and 20 CHF to reserve or pay in full for lodging; six of the 13 locations did not require any payment to make a reservation. Only two places required full payment up-front, and those were the two hotels (Courmayeur and Chamonix). All said and done, it was $800 each for me and my partner to get lodging, dinner, and breakfast for 13 nights; for three of those nights, we paid a bit extra for a private room. Other locations offered private rooms, but they were substantially more expensive than the basic hostel option, and we were unwilling to pay the difference.

Travel Sheets

Travel sheets are mandatory and very much desired for staying in huts and hostels in Europe. They provide pillows and blankets but do not provide sheets. Since there will be lots of people before and after you, it’s really the best idea to bring travel sheets with you. I purchased these synthetic ones for $20 and my partner purchased these silk ones for $33.

Most hostels have a place to handwash clothes and let them dry. We expect that we’ll be able to use a washer/dryer at the two hotels we’re staying at, and other than that, we’ll be handwashing everything. In looking for unscented laundry soap to bring with us, I found these dry laundry soap sheets. They don’t count against your liquids and can’t spill in your luggage. They can be cut or torn into smaller pieces for handwashing in a sink, and one sheet will take care of a small to medium load of laundry.

4: Safety and Communication

Mountain insurance.

When hiking in more mountainous places like the Alps, mountain insurance is recommended, which will cover things like the costs of a rescue team or a helicopter rescue, should you or anyone in your party get hurt badly enough they can’t self-rescue. It can also cover the cost of repatriation, which is the cost to return you to your country in case of serious injury.

After considering my options, I went with a yearly membership to the Austrian Alpine Club’s UK branch . They openly accept applicants from the US, and mailed me my membership cards. Membership includes mountain insurance, discounts at many huts and hostels, as well as a quarterly magazine. An adult membership starts at $60. They offer a variety of discounts for seniors, young adults, teens, and children. I ended up paying ~$110 for my partner and me, as they offer a discount for people who live together. With the discounts we receive at huts and hostels, it will pay for itself on our trip.

Health Insurance

You don’t want to be left holding the bill if something goes wrong overseas. Both me and my travel partner checked with our health insurance companies, to be sure that they cover medical care outside of the US. I was able to confirm it through their website, while my partner had to call the insurance company directly.

Plug Converters

For this trip in Europe, a Type C (‘Europlug’) converter will meet your needs, as it can be used with plug types E, F, J, K and L . I purchased this one for $12. You should check on your device or charger to be sure it offers both 110 and 220 volts (generally noted as 110-220 on the plug or device). Most items will have no problem with using a basic plug converter and don’t need a voltage converter (unless they’re high-powered appliances like hair dryers), but it’s worth double checking before you leave.  

Phone Connection

While most hostels offer Wi-Fi, most huts do not. Given the complexity of this trip, I decided that I’d prefer to have full use of my phone during my trip and opted for a 30-day international phone pass. AT&T offers both a $10 per day and a $60 for 30 days international phone usage passport add-on, though it does need to be arranged prior to your departure.

I did research into currency exchange and found that ATMs and banks are your best bet for withdrawing money in the local currency. Airports do offer it, but will charge a huge percentage on top of the actual exchange rate. I will be getting a few hundred euros from AAA before we leave, just to tide us over and make sure we have something in case of emergency. There are ATMs available in: (France) Chamonix, Les Houches, Les Contamines, (Italy) Courmayeur, and (Switzerland) La Fouly. You’ll need to call your bank to make sure your ATM card will work. Check if your credit card company needs to be notified about you leaving the country or traveling. Most hostels require cash; maybe three to four  hostels (all in Switzerland) take credit cards.

On the Tour du Mont Blanc, the predominant language is French; Italian, German, and English seem to be the next most-common. Since neither of us speak French, we worked on our basics using Duolingo. It won’t be enough to carry on full conversations, but we’ll be able to have some basic exchanges. From what I read, making an effort to speak at least some French is much appreciated by the locals.

5. Trip Cost

Our round-trip flights cost $633 each, and included one free checked bag; the Ouibus cost $47 each for a round-trip ticket. Total cost for 13 nights and 14 days in Europe came out to $1,535 per person, excluding incidentals and lunch, including RT flight, RT bus between airport and Chamonix, mountain insurance, and lodging with dinner and breakfast included.

*Featured image thanks to Flickr

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To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

Hi y'all, I'm Aubri ('Data'). I'm a queer, nonbinary hiker, backpacker, and trail runner (they/them pronouns, please). I've thru-hiked the AT ('13-'17), the Tour du Mont Blanc ('18), the Vermont Long Trail ('18), the John Muir Trail ('19, '21), the Tahoe Rim Trail ('19), and the New England Trail ('12-'17, '21), and summited all of the Winter New England 67, and completed the New England Hundred Highest and the Northeast 115 peaks. I've also run multiple 50ks, three 50-milers, and one 75-miler. I'm about 50% done with the PCT. This summer, I'm hiking the JMT with my partner, and section hiking more of the CA PCT. This winter, I'll be working on hiking the New England Hundred Highest. I'm hoping to thru-hike the Walkers Haute Route in Switzerland and section hike the rest of the PCT next year.At my day job, I'm a data-crunching research nerd, researching everything from medical outcomes for hospitalized patients to social determinants of health. During the week, I'm trail running, reading, and doing trapeze, and on the weekends, I'm generally out hiking some mountain somewhere. You can find trip reports and ramblings at https://transcendingmountains.blog/

This is a really informative post. Thanks for pulling all this together and sharing it.

Thanks for all the effort you have put into this; it will be a big help to many. Will look forward to reading about the trip after you return home…

You did a great job researching your trip and finding a way to keep the costs down. It’s hard to do all of this sight unseen.

I hiked part of the Tour du Mont Blanc when I did the GR5 (Holland to Nice, France). The Alps are amazing! Be prepared to be blown away by the beauty of it all. And I loved staying in the hostels on the trail. Les Houches (“lays hoosch”) sounds very familiar to me, so I assume I stayed there.

Please post a follow up report after your adventure. We’re all living vicariously through you.

Great post! Hope your trip was a blast.

Very informative, comprehensive and meticulous. Looking forward to your post on experience after the adventure !

Fantastic post! I’m planning my solo TMB for first week of july and I had very useful information from you. Thank you very much.

Very informative blog. We are doing the hike in August 2019 and done with most of our reservations. I wish I had come across your blog earlier. It would have saved us so much time 🙂

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Why the Tour du Mont Blanc is the ultimate mountain hike

Nov 9, 2023 • 6 min read

Few multiday mountain hikes rival the Tour du Mont Blanc © Quentin Boehm

If you’ve got one European long-distance hike on your bucket list, it’s probably the Tour du Mont Blanc. It was on mine, too.

Views over sparkling glaciers, Alpine prairies and lots (and lots!) of cheese await anyone who embarks on this border-crossing trek. Circling the largest peak in the Alps , Mont Blanc, the trail covers 170km (105 miles), climbs more than 10,000m (32,800ft) in cumulative altitude, and weaves through three Alpine countries: France , Italy and Switzerland . Typically, the route begins and ends in Les Houches, France, and follows a counterclockwise loop around the mountain range.

Every dream feels far away – until we start to break down what we need to do to achieve it. Here’s what it takes to hike or run the Tour du Mont Blanc.

How I prepared for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Don’t laugh at the folks who’ve sawed off the handle of their toothbrush to save on weight. Many of the climbs along the Tour du Mont Blanc are arduous, and every gram really does count. 

My first question as I prepared my bag was, Where would I sleep? Opting for camping would make the trek feel really wild, let me spend more time in nature and give a bit more flexibility about where and when I’d arrive each night. On the flip side, this would mean my home would be on my back (like a turtle), and heavy enough to reduce my walking speed significantly.

The other option was to sleep in refuges , or mountain huts. Refuges can range from rows of bunk beds to rooms that are almost luxurious – yet what they all offer in common is a dry place, sheltered from the elements. Plus (with rare exceptions), the dinners are delicious. Staying in refuges means no need to pack any camping or cooking gear, freeing up a lot of room in your backpack. 

Each refuge has its own culture and way of working, says Céline Mila, the gardienne (caretaker) of Refuge des Prés in the Contamines Valley. “Usually that means taking off your shoes before entering, and taking your trash away with you. The best way to get oriented at the refuge is by coming to see us when you arrive – it’s our job to share the mountain culture with you.”

For my 2023 Tour du Mont Blanc, I decided to stay in refuges the whole way. 

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

To beat the crowds, I decided to run the tour in mid-June. Even at the onset of summer, there was still quite a bit of snow above 1800m (5900ft), and many hikers brought along small snow chains to keep from slipping. I loved the extra challenge of the snow and the cooler daytime temperatures. July and August are the busiest months for the route, when the trail can sometimes feel like a highway. By September, things slow down again – but the huts also start to close up for the winter. While weather in the mountains can vary each year, usually July and August have the highest number of stable, rain-free days.

How long does the Tour du Mont Blanc take? And what do you eat along the route?

Hikers typically complete the loop in between seven and 10 days, and the fastest trail runners complete the journey in a staggering 20 hours. Regular trail runners tend to take things a bit slower, between three and four days. 

Since I was running the loop in four days, I packed only the barest essentials so as not to weigh myself down: a pair of leggings and a long-sleeve shirt to sleep in, a thin fleece for the mornings, a light raincoat, a pair of light gloves, a change of socks, my toothbrush, sunscreen, sunglasses and a headlamp. Plus, I wanted to eat as much local food as possible: crozets (cheesy pasta) in France, pizza in Italy and croûtes (a cheesy bread melt) in Switzerland.

Dinners were included in my demi-pension , or half-board. For lunch, I usually ordered the refuge ’s picnic to eat along the way. While they’re nothing fancy, the sandwiches or even just bread, smoked meat and cheese always hit the spot.

Alix Noblat , an ultra-trail runner and specialist in nutrition in endurance sports, once told me to eat every half hour – before my stomach starts rumbling. So I always keep a snack on me, like protein bars or Snickers. Anything that can give me an energy boost is always in my pack. 

The highs and lows of the Tour du Mont Blanc

After a few days on the trail, your sense of time and distance changes. Hikers will no longer measure their day by kilometers or hours traveled – but rather by the cols , or mountain passes, that they’ve reached. The most famous ones are:

• The Col du Bonhomme, which connects the lush Contamines Nature Reserve with the Alpine pastures of the Beaufortaine.
• The Col de la Seigne, at the border between France and Italy, with a spectacular view of Mont Blanc, Aiguille du Peuteurey, Dent du Géan  and the treacherous Grandes Jorasses.
• The Col Grand Ferret, at the end of the remote Val Ferret, which brings a long, steep climb – and a descent on the other (Swiss) side that’s rolling and blissful.
• The Col de la Balme, overlooking Chamonix valley, which brings hikers back into France for the final few legs before the finish.

And don’t forget the valleys. The TBM passes through winter-sports hubs like Chamonix and Courmayeur , as well as through smaller Alpine valleys. A standout valley is the Val Ferret: the trail runs high above the lush green pastures on the valley floor, giving a splendid view of the mineral rock faces of the range on the other side. Plus, the Rifugio Walter Bonatti ’s cappuccinos are the best you’ll find anywhere above 2000m (6500ft).

Do you need to be in great shape to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

You should physically prepare for the hike, yes. Getting in shape for the TMB is a question of cardio training and foot preparation. Hikers should be fit enough to cover their desired distance each day, of course. But don’t forget to prepare your feet to avoid blisters: break in hiking shoes before the first day of the hike, and bring along anti-chafing cream if you’re worried you might have rubs. 

Ready to make it happen?

This is a trek you should book early – at least two months out – to find secure space at the refuges . Yet it can be planned at the last minute for those who prefer camping. Autour du Mont Blanc is an easy-to-use website that helps plan daily stages. You can also reserve huts here. 

The views…the food…the marmots! The Tour du Mont Blanc delivers at every step.

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Tour du Mont Blanc in 7 Days: Map, Stages & Accommodations

The Tour du Mont Blanc is an epic hiking experience that takes you through three countries – France, Italy, and Switzerland – in an intense week. This adventure invites you to measure yourself against the majesty of the Alps, crossing mountain passes such as the Col du Brévent, the Col de la Seigne, and the Col des Fours, while admiring the grand landscapes of Mont Blanc.

The route offers exceptional flexibility, allowing hikers to adjust the difficulty of their journey by varying the number of days. A seven-day tour represents a considerable challenge, with some long and strenuous stages, but offers unmatched rewards in terms of satisfaction and breathtaking panoramas. For those who prefer a gentler adventure, a ten-day tour provides a more relaxed alternative.

Accommodation along the route is varied and abundant, with a wide choice ranging from comfortable hotels to quaint gîtes, traditional mountain refuges , and even bivouac sites for the more adventurous. Prepare for total immersion in the wild splendor of the Alps, facing the vastness of Mont Blanc.

Day 1 (Option 1): Les Houches – Refuge de la Balme

Download the GPX track of the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/mSlFmJ4Qro

Elevation gain, altitude, and mileage of the stage

Elevation +

Elevation –

Max. Altitude

Min. Altitude

Stage Summary:

The first stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is a 25-kilometer adventure that starts at Les Houches and ends at the Refuge de la Balme. After about 2h30 of walking from Les Houches, you will reach the Col de Voza, an initial challenge that will get you into the swing of things with about 660 meters of positive elevation gain over a distance of 6 to 7 kilometers, depending on your starting point. This first part of the route offers an impressive introduction to the beauty of the Alps and a first leg-stretcher for the rest of the tour.

After the Col de Voza, you will descend about 11 kilometers, with a negative elevation change of around 800 meters, to arrive in Les Contamines. This charming town is an ideal place to take a break, refresh with a local beer, and even spend the night if you prefer not to continue to the Refuge de la Balme. For those who choose to continue, there are still about 7 kilometers and 550 meters of positive elevation gain to reach the Refuge de la Balme. There, you can choose to sleep in the comfort of the refuge or experience a more rustic stay at the bivouac area.

Points of Interest for the Stage

Col de Voza

Where to Sleep?

Refuge de la Balme Bivouac area of Refuge de la Balme Possible to stop earlier in Les Contamines (camping or hotel)

Day 1 (option 2): Les Houches – Refuge de la Balme via the Col de Tricot variant

Download the GPX track of the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/rFQWJMXPXN

Summary of the Stage

The first stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an exciting variant that goes through the Col du Tricot, adding an extra dimension to this alpine adventure. The first part of the stage remains the same as the classic route, with a walk of about 2h30 from Les Houches to the Col de Voza. This section of the route includes about 660 meters of positive elevation gain over a distance of 6 to 7 kilometers, depending on your starting point.

Once at the Col de Voza, you will have the choice of staying on the classic route or taking the variant via the Col du Tricot. If you choose the latter, you should prepare for about 600 meters of additional positive elevation gain over a distance of 6 kilometers to reach the Col du Tricot. This variant offers a more demanding hiking experience, but also more rewarding, with spectacular panoramic views of the Alps.

From the Col du Tricot, you have several options for the rest of your day. You can continue to the Refuge de la Balme to spend the night, offering a longer but also more rewarding end to the day. Alternatively, you can turn towards Les Contamines to shorten your day and spend the night there.

Col de Voza Col de tricot at 2120m

Day 2 (option 1): Refuge de la Balme > Chapieux > Les Mottets

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/pubLJ5t1su

The second stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc begins at the Refuge de la Balme and ends at the Refuge des Mottets. It follows the classic route of the tour.

The departure from the Refuge de la Balme leads to a climb of 650 meters of elevation gain over a distance of 4 kilometers to reach the Col du Bonhomme. Once at the pass, you will continue on the classic route of the tour, without taking the variant via the Col des Fours.

After the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, you will begin a descent of 4 kilometers with a negative elevation change of 800 meters to arrive at Chapieux. From there, you will continue calmly for about 6 kilometers to the Refuge des Mottets. Along the way, you can stop at the Ville des Glaciers, where it’s possible to stop at the alpine pasture to stock up on local cheese, a true delicacy of the region.

Once arrived at the Refuge des Mottets, you will have completed this stage of the tour. This is your last stop before crossing into Italy the next day. It is recommended to book in advance if you plan to sleep in the refuge. It is important to note that it is forbidden to bivouac on the refuge property, which is quite large. However, you can pitch your tents before the refuge at the level of the ruins (about 5/10 minutes before the refuge) or after starting the ascent towards the Col de la Seigne, just behind the first “peak” that is visible from the refuge.

Col du bonhomme Col de la croix du bonhomme

Refuge des Mottets Bivouac before the Refuge des Mottets at the level of the ruins. Set up your tents quickly as it fills up very fast. Bivouac after the Refuge des Mottets (directly after the first ascent towards the Col de la Seigne)

Day 2 (option 2): Refuge de la Balme > Col des Fours > Les Mottets

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/URWmZQHWLG

The beginning of the stage is the same as the classic route, starting from the Refuge de la Balme and ascending 650 meters of elevation gain over 4 kilometers to reach the Col du Bonhomme.

Continuing towards the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, you will then choose the variant that leads to the Col des Fours. This variant takes you to an altitude of 2665 meters, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Before embarking on this variant, it is essential to check the weather and the trail conditions in advance. Depending on the season, there can be a lot of snowfields, making some passages dangerous even in summer.

Once at the Col des Fours, you will begin a descent of 5 kilometers with a negative elevation change of 900 meters to arrive at the Ville des Glaciers. You can stop at the alpine pasture to stock up on local cheese, a true delicacy of the region, before continuing to the Refuge des Mottets.

The Refuge des Mottets is your last stop before crossing into Italy the next day. It is recommended to book in advance if you plan to sleep in the refuge. It is important to note that it is forbidden to bivouac on the refuge property, which is quite large. However, you can pitch your tents before the refuge at the level of the ruins (about 5/10 minutes before the refuge) or after starting the ascent towards the Col de la Seigne, just behind the first “peak” that is visible from the refuge.

Day 3: Les Mottets > Courmayeur

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/Twvax7D6iA

The third stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc will take you from France to Italy, crossing spectacular alpine landscapes. The stage begins at the Refuge des Mottets, and after only 4 kilometers and about 600 meters of positive elevation gain, you will reach the Col de la Seigne. This pass, perfect for waking up, marks your entry into Italy and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

After the Col de la Seigne, you will continue for about 9 to 10 kilometers through the beautiful Italian valley. This part of the route takes you through varied landscapes, including the picturesque Lake Combal and several mountain refuges. Each step of this stage offers a new view of the Alps, with constantly changing panoramas and opportunities for memorable photos.

Finally, you will begin a descent of 11 kilometers with a negative elevation change of 1260 meters to arrive in Courmayeur. This Italian town is a welcome resting place after this long stage. Courmayeur is full of hotels, perfect for recharging and preparing for the next stage of your adventure. Whether you choose to relax in a spa, taste local Italian cuisine, or simply rest, Courmayeur offers a perfect end to the day for this third stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Col de la Seigne Lake Combal

Hotels in Courmayeur

Campings outside Courmayeur

Day 4: Courmayeur > Refuge Elena

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/B3MhnslfBa

The fourth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is a day that offers a mix of challenges and relaxation. Your day begins with a climb of about 800 meters of positive elevation gain over a distance of 4 to 5 kilometers, depending on your starting point. This initial climb is an excellent way to wake up and prepare for the day ahead.

Once this climb is completed, the rest of the day is relatively “quiet” compared to other stages. You will continue for about 12 kilometers, with 330 meters of positive elevation and 600 meters of negative elevation. This part of the route takes you through the beautiful Italian valley, offering spectacular views and a relaxing hiking experience.

Before arriving at the Refuge Elena, you will have about 2 kilometers and about 300 meters of positive elevation gain left. This last climb is a final challenge before ending the day. The Refuge Elena is a popular place to spend the night, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

It is important to note that you will need to book in advance to sleep at the Refuge Elena, as it fills up quickly and there are not many sleeping options in the vicinity. In Italy, bivouacking is prohibited below 2500 meters in altitude, so it is essential to plan ahead. This fourth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers a balanced hiking experience, with physical challenges, beautiful landscapes, and moments of relaxation.

Italian Valley

Where to sleep?

Refuge Elena

Day 5: Refuge Elena > Champex

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/v4RKRYwRg3

The fifth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from the Refuge Elena to Champex-Lac, is a hiking day that offers both challenges and moments of relaxation. Although this stage is quite long and some parts may not be the most attractive of the tour, it nevertheless provides a rewarding hiking experience.

The day begins with a beautiful climb of about 500 meters of positive elevation over 2 kilometers to reach the Grand Col Ferret. This ascent marks your crossing into Switzerland, a moment to celebrate, but also to consider for your phone’s internet data, as Switzerland may not be included in your European plan depending on the operator.

From the Grand Col Ferret, a descent of about 20 kilometers and 1600 meters of negative elevation awaits you. This descent brings you closer to Champex-Lac, your destination for the night. It’s worth noting that part of this stage can be done by bus by taking the shuttle at Ferret or La Fouly, which can be an attractive option for those wishing to save some energy.

You then have 6 kilometers and 600 meters of positive elevation remaining to reach the Relais de l’Arpette, where you will spend the night. It is also possible to sleep at the Camping des Rocailles in Champex, which is located about 45 minutes before the Relais de l’Arpette.

Grand Col Ferret (Italy/Switzerland border) Option to take the shuttle at Ferret to Champex and avoid walking for 4 hours Supermarket in La Fouly to restock if needed

Relais de l’Arpette Camping des rocailles (in Champex)

Day 6 (option 1): Champex > Col de Balme (via La Forclaz) > Tré le Champs.

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/f8P8nDc8xt

The sixth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from Champex to Tré le Champ, is a quite hard hiking day even without taking the variant via the Fenêtre d’Arpette. This stage also marks your return to France.

Your day begins with a climb towards the Col de la Forclaz, followed by another ascent to the Col de la Balme. The Col de la Balme is a highlight of this stage, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The refuge here is a beautiful place to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The passage at the Col de la Balme also marks the border with France, another significant milestone of your journey.

After enjoying the Col de la Balme and a drink at the refuge, you will begin a descent of about 6 kilometers with 700 meters of negative elevation to reach Tré le Champ and the Auberge de la Boerne. This descent offers another opportunity to enjoy the alpine landscapes while approaching your destination for the night.

It’s important to note that you need to book your night at the Auberge de la Boerne in advance, as it fills up quickly. The bivouac area is not the largest, so it’s advised to set up your tents quickly. Once settled, you can enjoy a wonderful meal at the inn and take advantage of the showers if you wish.

Col de la Forclaz Col de la Balme

Auberge de la Boerne (hostel) Auberge de la Boerne (camping)

Day 6 (option 2): Champex > Col de Balme (via Fenêtre d’Arpette) > Tré le Champs

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/iIoAINv20C

The sixth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from Champex to Tré le Champ with the variant via the Fenêtre d’Arpette, is considered one of the hardest of the Tour, but also one of the most beautiful and rewarding.

Starting from Champex, you’ll begin a climb over 6 kilometers with an elevation gain of 1100 meters. This ascent is a challenge in itself, with some complicated passages to reach the Fenêtre d’Arpette, and the trail can be difficult to follow. It’s essential to be cautious on the way, check the weather and trail conditions beforehand carefully. Some passages may still be snow-covered and dangerous if the weather is not favorable.

Once you reach the Fenêtre, take the time to rest and savor your accomplishment. You then have a descent of about 4 kilometers with 1000 meters of negative elevation before arriving at the Chalet des Glaciers. Here, you can reward yourself with a cheese crust and a good beer.

After a well-deserved break, you’ll embark on another ascent to the Col de la Balme, about 2 kilometers with approximately 600 meters of elevation gain. The view and refuge here are magnificent, and it’s recommended to make the most of it.

Finally, you have “only” 6 kilometers and 800 meters of negative elevation to reach Tré le Champ. As always, make sure to book your night in advance, whether in a refuge or bivouac, as these places fill up quickly. The bivouac area is not the largest, so it’s advised to set up your tents quickly. Once settled, you can enjoy a wonderful meal at the inn and take advantage of the showers if you wish. This stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an unforgettable hiking experience, with physical challenges, breathtaking views, and well-deserved moments of relaxation.

Fenêtre d’Arpette Col de la Balme

Day 7: Tré le Champs > Les Houches

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/3kIaPa8PzP

Congratulations! You’ve reached the seventh and final stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from Tré le Champ to Les Houches. It’s a flexible day, adaptable to your needs and desires, whether in terms of accommodation, transport, or difficulty level.

If you choose to descend to Les Houches, prepare for a full day. However, many “exits” are available along the way, allowing you to adjust your day according to your physical condition and desires.

You have the option to take the cable car from La Flégère to Chamonix, offering a quick descent and a stunning view of the valley. Another option is to take the cable car from Brévent to Chamonix, another way to enjoy the view without the effort of descending.

If you feel up to it, you can also choose to walk down to Chamonix before the ascent of Brévent. This option allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the route, while offering one last physical challenge.

During this day, you will pass through the Aiguillette d’Argentière and its ladders, as well as the Col du Brévent. Both points offer spectacular views and are highlights of this final stage.

Whichever option you choose, this last stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is an opportunity to celebrate your achievements, enjoy the last beautiful views, and finish your adventure in style.

Aiguillette d’Argentière Col du Brévent

Les Houches Chamonix Option to take the cable car from La Flégère to Chamonix Option to take the cable car from Brévent to Chamonix Option to walk down to Chamonix before the ascent of Brévent (expect 1h30 to 2h of steep descent)

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This article was written by Hugo, a hiking enthusiast and co-creator of TMB-Guide.com. This site is your gateway to your adventure on the Tour du Mont Blanc. We strive to share as much information as possible about the Tour to help hikers prepare for their trips.

11-Day Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary

Striking blue alpine lakes, snow-capped jagged peaks, grazing cattle, ancient glaciers, rugged landscapes, pretty meadows, rustic mountain refuges and jaw-dropping viewpoints. here is the ultimate 11-day tour du mont blanc itinerary..

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a magnificent multi-day hike encircling the Mont Blanc Massif usually in around 9-11 days and covers between 140 km and 170 km. It takes its name from the tallest mountain in the Alps,  Mont Blanc, standing proud at 4,809 metres.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is an incredibly rewarding and challenging trip of a lifetime and a real bucketlist experience for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts as it passes through some of France, Italy and Switzerland’s most stunning mountain scenery!

Landscapes are noticeably different in each country and characterised by rugged ancient glaciers, pretty alpine flowers, jagged snow-capped peaks, quaint towns and villages, rolling green mountains, waterfalls, rivers and many more diverse sceneries.

Planning your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary can be quite daunting so this guide and this guide on everything you need to know before hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc will tell you everything you need to know.

The Tour du Mont Blanc Hike technically starts and ends in Les Houches although there are different options on where to finish. The entire route is 170 km but this will vary depending on your route, variants and where you finish.

Our Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary finishes in Flégère where we took the cable car to Les Praz and bus back to Chamonix. The last section is a gruelling 1500-metre rocky descent, so, we decided to skip this as none of us have great knees going downhill.

Traditionally, the Tour du Mont Blanc Hike is completed anti-clockwise, but you can hike clockwise if you’d like quieter trails in the mornings and afternoons. The views are spectacular in either direction.

For everything you need to know before hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc including how to book, accommodation types, the best time of year, tips for staying in refuges, what to pack, weather, food and ATM stops and so much more, head to the post below.

Read: Everything You Need to Know Before Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Here, we’ll focus on our 11-day Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary. We’ll break each day into sections and share timings, distance and elevation gain and loss between various points so you know what to expect on each day.

We’ve detailed refuges, restaurants and water-fill-up points on our route. We’ve mentioned a couple we know about on the variations, however, there may be other ones we aren’t aware of.

The distances of refuges and restaurants in brackets are the distances from the day’s starting point.

The first section of this post will be the detailed Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary and then we’ll share everything else you need to know that’s relevant to the hike and not shared in the post above. Feel free to use the contents as required.

No time to read this 11-day Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary now? No worries, save this post for later.

11 Day Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary

Day 1: les houches to les contamines-montjoie.

Day 1 of your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary starts in Les Houches at the starting point of the TMB Hike (950 metres).

The first section takes you to Col de Voza (1657 metres) from the Bellevue Cable Car covering 680 metres of elevation gain over 6.5 kilometres. It’s pretty gruelling. I actually found it one of the toughest parts of the entire TMB Hike.

Sections of the trail are under the shade of the trees; a nice respite from the heat and when the trees open up, you’re treated to beautiful views across the valley.

Our Top Tip: to save your energy, you can also take the Bellevue Cable Car which has incredible views of the Mont Blanc Massif and Aiguille du Midi. The cost is €17.50 one-way.

From Col de Voza, follow signs for Col de Tricot. You’ll traverse picturesque meadows with wonderful views of Bionnassay Glacier; the smallest of the great glaciers on the French side of Mont Blanc with a length of almost 5 km!

Cross the suspension bridge over the Torrent de Bionnassay; a thundering river fed by the Bionnassay Glacier.

From here, the path ascends through the trees then a meadow, before rising sharply to Col de Tricot (2120 metres); the highest point you’ll reach on day 1 of your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary.

Col de Tricot is the perfect spot for lunch with views into the valley with Refuge de Miage (1550 metres) at the base of Mont Truc.

Although Refuge de Miage doesn’t look far, the steep switchbacks took us just over an hour to get down. Stop at the refuge for a break, some refreshments if needed and a water refill. The outside tables have a breathtaking view of the Dômes de Miage.

The distance from Col de Voza to Refuge de Miage is 7.2 km and will take around 3 hours.

Follow signs to Les Contamines-Montjoie which should take around 2 hours. As you hike up the steep grassy hill through the forest to the Truc Plateau, you’ll be treated to more amazing views of the Dômes de Miage. You may also see grazing cattle.

The last section of today is on dirt roads and forest trails through La Frasse, a neighbourhood above and about 20 minutes away from the pretty town of Les Contamines-Montjoie (1164 metres).

• Distance: 17.9 km
• Elevation gain: 1410 metres
• Elevation loss: 1260 metres
• Approximate time: 7.5 hours
• Variations: Contamines Valley – reduces the ascent and it’s advised as a safe alternative to the Col de Tricot if the weather is bad. This route is 1.2 km shorter, 2 hours faster and passes through picturesque hamlets and farmland.
• Refuges and restaurants: – Col de Voza (5.9 km) – snack bar, water, toilets and accommodation – Refuge de Miage (13.1 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, refreshments, water and toilets – Auberge du Truc (14 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, refreshments, water and toilets.
• Water fill-up: Refuges above
• Where to stay:  Les Pierres Blanches – Les Contamines-Montjoie

Day 2: Les Contamines-Montjoie to Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme

Day 2 of your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary begins on a gentle path along a river until you reach Notre-Dame de la Gorge. Here, the climb starts through the trees and then out into the open just before Refuge de Nant Borrant (1459 metres).

This section from Notre Dame will take about 30 minutes. This is a good spot to fill up on water, have a snack and admire the views sitting on the bean bags at the front of the refuge.

Approaching Refuge de la Balme was one of my favourite sections of our Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary . It’s relatively flat so you can enjoy the striking scenery ahead of the jagged peaks of Aiguille de la Pennaz towering above you.

After half an hour, you’ll reach Refuge de la Balme (1706 metres); a great spot for lunch with impressive views above the forest and into the valley.

From here, the incline really begins but the views are magnificent!

Ahead, lie the imposing spikes of Aiguille de la Pennaz making you feel incredibly small and behind the views keep getting better over the forest and into the valley as you make your way higher.

The steep ascent to Col du Bonhomme (2,329 metres) sees an elevation gain of just over 600 metres from Refuge de la Balme and will take you a couple of hours. 

Have a bit of a break at the Col and appreciate the stunning views over Val Montjoie as you see just how far you’ve come today.

Follow signs to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. The landscape here is wild and rugged and the path is loose rock and dirt. The views are striking, and, looking behind, you’ll see a tranquil alpine lake nestled peacefully amongst mountains.

From the Col du Bonhomme to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme should take about an hour. The elevation doesn’t change much but it’s a bit of an effort hiking over the rocks and boulders.

At the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, there’s a sign pointing to the refuge 5 minutes away. Descending slightly and sitting overlooking the valley below is Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2,443 metres).

Our Top Tip:  treat yourself to a beer and watch the sunset light up the mountains with a fiery glow.

• Distance:  13.2 kilometres
• Elevation gain:  1300 metres
• Elevation loss: 10 metres
• Approximate time:  6.5 hours
• Variations: None
• Refuges and restaurants: – Refuge de Nant Borrant (5.4 km) – lunch restaurant, refreshments, accommodation, water and toilet. – Refuge de la Balme – (7.9 km) – facilities are as above
• Where to stay: Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme

Our Top Tip: each refuge has a stamp so make sure you ask each one to stamp something for you.

Day 3: Refuge De La Croix Du Bonhomme to Refugio Elisabetta

Your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary will leave France today and cross into Italy. The main route is via Les Chapieux (detailed below), however, the more scenic and quieter route is over Col des Fours (2,665 metres).

We hiked this section on 11th July and weren’t sure whether we could due to snow. Col des Fours is the highest section of the Tour du Mont Blanc and the last to lose snow.

If we’d been here 2 days before, we wouldn’t have been able to cross without crampons. However, it had melted significantly, and although there was a lot of snow, it was very manageable with hiking poles.

Col des Fours has some of the most scenic and wild landscapes on the TMB Hike. It’s often also one of the quietest routes as people usually descend into Les Chapieux rather than taking this higher route. If the weather’s terrible, don’t attempt Col des Fours.

The climb to the saddle of Col des Fours isn’t too strenuous and should take around half an hour from Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme. 

From here, it’s a steep descent on loose scree, crossing over multiple streams.

Our Top Tip: if you suffer from knee pain downhill, now is a good time to put on a brace.

The views as you descend are wonderful! Jagged snow-capped peaks soar high above you with streams weaving their way through the mountains.

Eventually, the path evens out and follows Les Tufs, a narrow stream, through the valley and becomes more compact dirt than loose rocks.

After a while, the path descends to the right where there’s a sign for Ville des Glaciers (1,855 metres). Head towards the steep sloping mountains that look like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park.

The descent from the summit of Col des Fours to Ville des Glaciers is 810 metres of elevation loss and will take approximately 2.5 hours.

Please note

From Ville des Glaciers, Andy and I got a shuttle to Les Chapieux and a taxi to Courmayeur as Andy was suffering badly from altitude sickness so we had an extra rest day for him to recover.

This part of the TMB Hike is described through a lot of research and speaking to our friends who continued and we met them in Courmayeur the next day as planned.

From Ville des Glaciers, it’s around 30 minutes to Refuge des Mottets (1,864 metres). If you’ve gone down to Les Chapieux and back up, this is where the routes join up. You’re about 3 hours away from Rifugio Elisabetta.

Follow the trail from Ville des Glaciers through Vallée des Glaciers; a very fitting name as you have amazing views of Aiguille des Glaciers standing at 3815 metres.

Follow this until you reach Refuge des Mottets, a former dairy farm and now one of the most popular refuges on the TMB and a great spot for lunch.

Continue on to Col de la Seigne (2,516 metres) which will take around 2 hours to reach. It’s completely in the open with no shade so, make sure you refill your water at Refuge des Mottets.

Col de la Seigne marks the crossing into Italy and from here you’ll start the steep descent to Rifugio Elisabetta (2,195 metres) which will take about an hour. 

• Distance: 14.8 kilometres
• Elevation gain: 953 metres
• Elevation loss: 1305 metres
• Approximate time:  8 hours
• Variations: Col des Fours is the variant. The main route descends from Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme to Les Chapieux then to Ville des Glaciers where the routes meet. This is recommended when Col des Fours is impassable due to snow and if the weather’s bad. The elevation loss to Les Chapieux is 920 metres and the gain to Ville des Glaciers is 20 metres. The total route distance is 19.5 km. To save some energy and cut time, there are regular shuttle buses between Les Chapieux and Ville des Glaciers/Refuge des Mottets. The hiking route is along a road that the shuttle drives down so it’s not the most scenic. The bus costs €4 per person for a return journey.
• Refuges and restaurants: – Refuge des Mottets – (7.1/11.8 km) – lunch restaurant, accommodation, water and toilets. – Les Chapieux has a couple of options for food, water and toilets.
• Water fill-up: as above
• Where to stay: Rifugio Elisabetta

Day 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

After leaving Rifugio Elisabetta, the trail starts quite a steep descent before flattening to a nice straight path.

After a couple of kilometres, you’ll reach a wetland area and then Lago Combal (1,951 metres); a striking alpine lake nestled beneath magnificent mountain peaks.

Use this flat path to recover as you’ll soon be heading up a steep ascent. Just after Lago Combal, the trail veers to the right and the ascent towards Col Checrouit begins up the grassy Val Veny.

The elevation gain today is only 500 metres, however, it’s done over a short distance so it’s very steep. This section will take around 1 hour before the path evens out for another hour and a half with little up and down bits.

In this flat stretch, you can soak up the stunning views of Val Veny and Mont Blanc as you pass pretty alpine lakes before reaching Rifugio Maison Vielle at Col Checrouit (1,956 metres). 

Lago Combal to Rifugio Maison Vielle is 7 km.

From here, follow the signs to Courmayeur (1,224 metres) which should take between 1.5 to 2 hours. Continue on the trail for 15 minutes, past a cluster of houses where you’ll reach Rifugio le Randonneur.

20 minutes on a gravel road will lead you to Dolonne Gondola Mountain Station where you can take a gondola to Courmayeur. Alternatively, descend into the residential streets of Dolonne Village, where you’ll see Courmayeur straight ahead.

This descent is really steep so again, if your knees suffer, brace up!

• Distance: 15.4 km
• Elevation gain: 500m 
• Elevation loss:  1430m 
• Approximate time:   7 hours
• Refuges and restaurants: – Rifugio Maison Vieille (10.4 km) – lunch restaurant, toilets, water and accommodation – Gite le Randonneur – (11.5 km) – as above and Wifi 
• Where to stay:   Chalet Blanc “Coeur Sapin”

Day 5: Rest Day in Courmayeur

Now on your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, it’s time for a well-deserved rest day!

We’d recommend staying somewhere you can wash your clothes. The link to the lovely apartment we stayed in is below and this was a great homely base for a couple of nights.

Courmayeur is a picturesque alpine resort town in Italy at the foot of Mont Blanc and surrounded by mountains on all sides. The town has narrow charming streets lined with cosy bars and restaurants and pretty terraces looking out to the surrounding mountains.

A lot of things to do in Courmayeur involve hiking, however, there’s a scenic alpine pool which is perfect for your rest day!

Sitting at 1,704 metres and surrounded by the mountains and ski fields of Courmayeur, the pool is incredibly relaxing and just what your muscles need after the first 4 days of your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary.

Although the pool is heated, it’s still fairly cold which is lovely and refreshing on a hot day. There’s also a sauna, solarium, changing rooms and a bar. Is there a better location for a recovery beer?!

To reach the alpine pool, take the cable car from Dolonne and it’s a short walk from the station. You can buy tickets for the cable car and pool together for €27 per adult or €20 to arrive after 1:45 pm. These can be booked at the gondola station in Dolonne.

Alternatively, you can walk 1.5 hours from Courmayeur, although, as it’s your rest day, we wouldn’t recommend this.

The pool is open in July and August and comes on a first-come-first-serve basis. During school holidays it can get extremely busy. Swimming caps are mandatory and can be bought at the pool for cheaper than in Courmayeur.

Courmayeur has some fantastic restaurants so treat yourself to a couple of meals out. We’d recommend La Boite which is a homely little pizzeria serving delicious pasta and pizza. 

• Where to stay:   Chalet Blanc Coeur Sapin

Day 6: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Time to continue your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary and day 6 was my  favourite day of the hike!

Today’s route starts from the Church of Saint Pantaleon and through residential streets until you get to a small car park which will take around half an hour.

From here, continue up the path through the forest. Shortly before reaching Rifugio Bertone, there’s an amazing viewpoint over Courmayeur in one direction and Mont Blanc in the other.

The elevation gain between Courmayeur and Rifugio Bertone (1,970 metres) is 746 metres over approximately 5.5 km.

At the junction, head left and follow the sign that says Rifugio Bonatti (2h15). This is the variation route as Andy was still recovering. The main route is a lot tougher as you ascend and follow the crest of Mont de la Saxe (2,246 metres).

This section between Rifugio Bertone and Rifugio Bonatti was my favourite section of our entire Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary! It was fairly gentle so you could actually take in the majesty of the views around you as you hike. This was a first!

For the first section of the trail, you have a great view of Mont Blanc and then Les Grandes Jorasses high above Val Ferret as you weave through the forest and meadows full of colourful alpine flowers.

This leisurely trail continues for just over 6 km until you reach a junction and Rifugio Bonatti (2,026 metres) is up on the right.

Some of the  best views of Mont Blanc are from this refuge. The clouds at sunset were particularly spectacular, made even better with a congratulatory beer at the end of the day.

• Distance: 12.1 km
• Elevation gain: 810 metres
• Elevation loss: 0
• Approximate time:  5.5 hours
• Variations: we hiked the variation as it’s quicker and easier than the main route and Andy was still recovering from altitude sickness. This route is also recommended on rainy days when you won’t be able to see the views. The main route follows the wide whaleback ridge crest of  Mont de la Saxe with a total distance of 14.6 km, elevation gain 1,580 metres and loss 760 metres. It’ll take approximately 7.5 hours. There’s another variation that turns off the route a while before Rifugio Bertone and ascends Col Sapin. This is a good alternative if the summits are shrouded in clouds as it saves a fair amount of unnecessary ascent. It’s also more sheltered from the wind. The total distance of this variation is 13.1 km, with an elevation gain of 1,350 metres and loss of 630 metres.
• Refuges and restaurants: – Rifugio Bertone (4.7 kilometres) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, water and toilets (after 10am)
• Water fill-up: Rifugio Bertone only
• Where to stay: Rifugio Bonatti

Day 7: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Hike up behind Rifugio Bonatti then veer off to the left. Continue through meadows, crossing two streams until you reach two stone huts where the trail does a U-turn and descends towards the valley floor of Val Ferret (1,770 metres). This will take around 1.5 hours.

Continue along the valley road a little way until veering off right at the sign. From here it’s around an hour to Rifugio Elena (2,061 metres). The trail starts off quite steep with sections that level off giving you a little break.

Turn back occasionally to appreciate the gorgeous views over Val Ferret as you get higher.

Rifugio Elena sits at the bottom of the thousand-year-old Prè de Bard Glacier and is a good place to stop for water and the toilet before the big ascent up Grand Col Ferret (2,537 metres).

Grand Col Ferret is the highest point on today’s stage of the TMB Hike. It’s quite a gruelling incline but the views over Val Ferret are rewarding if you need a break.

From Rifugio Elena to the summit of Grand Col Ferret, it should take about an hour with an elevation gain of 476 metres.

Grand Col Ferret marks the crossing into your third country on the Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, Switzerland, and the scenery immediately changes. 

The rugged and dramatic landscapes and jagged mountains littered with glaciers make way for gentle grassy slopes and grazing cattle. 

The path to Gîte Alpage de la Peule follows an easy slope down from Grand Col Ferret and sits peacefully surrounded by towering mountains. This will take around 1 hour.

It’s 1.5 km to Les Ars down a mixture of roads and hiking paths. The last 4 km from Les Ars to La Fouly (1,600 metres) can either be done on the road which is the quickest, or, cross the river and follow the path along it before crossing back over in town.

• Distance: 19.2 km
• Elevation gain:  910 metres
• Elevation loss: 1310 metres
• Refuges and restaurants: – Chalet Val Ferret (4.9 km) – accommodation, lunch and dinner restaurant, toilet, WiFi and water – Rifugio Elena (7.3 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, all-day refreshments, toilet and water – Gîte Alpage de la Peule (13.3 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant water and toilets – Alpage des Ars (15.7 km) – restaurant and toilets. – Hotel du Col de Fenêtre  (16.8 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, all-day snacks and refreshments, water and toilets 
• Water: as above
• Where to stay: Hotel Edelweiss

Day 8: La Fouly to Champex-Lac

On today’s section of the Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, you have the option of taking the bus from La Fouly to Issert to give your legs a rest. However, the TMB Hike is rather gentle between these two points.

Head out of La Fouly and cross over Dranse de Ferret; the river flowing through La Fouly. Join the trail that runs with the river on its right and follow the well-maintained flat path for a while.

It’ll start to gradually ascend into the trees and you’ll be able to look down on the river.

The trail through the forest continues for about 7.5 km which is nice on the legs.

Shortly before Praz-de-Fort, there’s a quaint cafe serving snacks and refreshments in a picturesque setting with views out to the Swiss Alps. A g reat stop to refuel!

You’ll soon reach Praz-de-Fort, a pretty Swiss village and although isn’t the dramatic mountain landscapes from Italy and France, is incredibly scenic. 

After Praz-de-Fort, the trail continues on and you reach another pretty little Swiss village, Issert. Cross over the river, follow the road a little way and veer left up through the forest. This is where the incline begins.

Today is the day on your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary with the least elevation gain at 510 metres, however, it’s all here. Issert to Champex-Lac is about 5.5 km. There isn’t much to see but occasionally the trees open up to reveal the villages below.

At the top of the hill, continue along the road to Champex-Lac (1,500 metres); one of the most scenic towns on your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary. There are plenty of drinking and dining options and, if you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the lake.

Our Top Tip: walk around the lake at sunset. It’s incredibly beautiful with the mountain backdrop reflecting in the peaceful water.

• Distance:  15.7 km
• Elevation gain: 510 metres
• Elevation loss: 610 metres
• Approximate time:  7 hours
• Variations:  None
• Refuges and restaurants: today’s route won’t pass any refuges but passes through a couple of villages with dining options: – Cafe La Kabana (7.5 km) – all-day snacks and refreshments and toilet – Cafe Restaurant Le Portalet (8.4 km) – lunch restaurant, refreshments and toilet – La Linaigrette (9.1 km)  – Café du Châtelet (10.1 km)
• Water fill-up:  we didn’t fill our water up this day as it was quite chilled and we didn’t need to, however, you can probably fill up at the cafes above if you buy some food or drinks. You’ll also pass a water trough on the side of the road in Issert.
• Where to stay: Hikers’ Rest and Rebalance

Day 9: Champex-Lac to Refuge Le Peuty

Today, you’ll be following signs most of the way to Col de la Forclaz.

The route starts off gently on the road through a little village before ascending into the forest. The path is quite rocky, there are a couple of streams to cross and there are some lovely views over the mountains when the trees open.

After about 8 km, you’ll be treated to beautiful views over Martigny nestled at the foot of imposing mountains before hearing the familiar cowbell just before Alpage de Bovine (1,975 metres) – our favourite place for lunch on our Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary!

This cosy little restaurant specialises in delicious homemade Swiss food , full of nutrients and known for its sweet treats. We had vegetable soup, bread and cheese.

Our Top Tip: try and get one of the tables at the front with the best views.

After lunch, continue the ascent a bit further before descending through meadows and forest towards Col de la Forclaz (1,527 metres) for just under 5 km.

The final descent from Col de la Forclaz will take you straight to Refuge le Peuty (1,328 metres) or, you can walk through the quaint village Trient which we did. Honestly, I wouldn’t bother. You get a lovely view from above and the town is a bit of an eerie ghost town.

From Trient, it’s 1.3 km up the road until you reach Refuge le Peuty in the shadows of the majestic Trient Glacier.

• Distance: 15.9 km
• Elevation gain: 844 metres
• Elevation loss: 901 metres
• Approximate time:   6.5 hours
• Variations: the variant from Champex-Lac to Refuge Le Peuty should only be considered in good weather. It’s one of the most challenging sections on the TMB. It’s a completely different route from Champex-Lac to Fenêtre d’Arpette, is a total of 14.8 km with an elevation gain of 1,199 metres, a loss of 1,139 metres, and an approximate time of 7 hours. It joins back up with the main route just before Trient.
• Refuges and restaurants:  – Auberge Gîte “Bon Abri” (2.3 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, water, toilet and free WiFi – Alpage de Bovine ( 8.5 km) – restaurant, water and toilet. Open 9am – 5pm every day except Tuesday – Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz (13 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, small groceries, refreshments, toilets, water and WiFi – Trient has a couple of dining and refreshment options
• Water fill-up: Refuges and restaurants above
• Where to stay:  Refuge le Peuty

Day 10: Refuge Le Peuty to Tré le Champ

Today was our  least favourite day on our Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary! We’d not had a good night’s sleep and the incline right at the start of the day was exhausting!

Begin up a gravel path before a steep ascent through the forest for approximately 6 km. It’s not very scenic as trees block the view for most of the way, but at least it’s shaded.

Above the tree line, you’ll see Trient peaking through the trees immersed by striking mountains.

Continue on the trail, aiming for the saddle and you’ll eventually reach Col de Balme (2,195 metres). This 6 km will see around 867 metres of elevation gain and take about 2 hours.

Col de Balme marks the entry back into France and is a great place to refuel after a tiring ascent. Soak up the views behind the refuge over Vallée de l’Arve at the base of Mont Blanc.

Between here and Tré le Champ, you’ll pass quite a few chairlifts and overhead cables which slightly detract from the incredible view which is a shame.

Descend to Col des Posettes (1,997 metres), which will take about an hour from Col de Balme.

For the rest of the Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, the trails will be a lot busier. As you’re getting closer to Chamonix and there are chairlifts and cable cars in the region, there are a lot of day hikers also enjoying these trails.

Hike up to the highest part of the day at Aiguillette des Posettes (2,201 metres), again about an hour. Continue and the trail becomes more rugged and wild. Follow signs to Tré le Champ and the trail will soon descend below the treeline and into the forest. 

This was probably the  worst part of our Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary . It’s a knee-crunching 2-hour descent through the forest over rocks, branches and trees and there aren’t any views to distract you.

When you reach the road, meander through the little town of Tré le Champ. Continue until you reach Gîte du Moulin (1,350 metres). You may need to use a navigation app to find this spot as it’s not obvious.

• Distance: 13.9 km
• Elevation gain: 1,100 metres
• Elevation loss: 1,000 metres
• Approximate time: 7 hours
• Variations: Col de Balme via Les Grands explores a wilder terrain and offers stunning views of glaciers. Only consider if you have a lot of energy as it ascends steeply and quickly. It adds on 1.4 km between Trient and Col de Balme but is around 20 minutes faster. A second variant is from Col de Balme direct to Montroc and is a direct and quicker route down the valley on bad weather days or when tired. It also passes next to chairlifts and cable cars which can be used if you wish. The Posettes Ridge on the main route is prone to lightning so use this variant when it’s stormy. This route is 1.4 km shorter and approximately 1 hour faster.
• Refuges and restaurants: – Refuge du Col de Balme (6 km) – accommodation, lunch restaurant, refreshments, snacks, toilet and water
• Where to stay: Gîte du Moulin

Day 11: Tré le Champ to La Flégère/Chamonix

The final day of your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary and some seriously epic mountain scenery awaits you!

Head back through  Tré le Champ and follow signs to Lac Blanc. For about an hour, ascend through the forest up an uneven and rocky path. This isn’t overly strenuous.

There are some amazing views over the surrounding mountains as you hike towards jagged peaks coming off a massive and rather daunting rock face.

After about 2.5 km, which will take about an hour, you’ll reach some ladders that’ll take you over this rock face. If, like me, you suffer from vertigo, this section may be quite scary.

There are quite a few ladders but huge amounts of people climb them every day so you’ll be absolutely fine!

Our Top Tip: if it’s raining, take the variation; do not attempt the ladders in the rain as it’s too dangerous.

There are multiple ladders with sections of trail in between. After approximately half a kilometre, you’ll reach Tête aux Vents (2,140 metres), marked by a large cairn with lots of signs.

You’re about 45 minutes away from Lac Blanc up rocky terrain. You’ll also pass a few beautiful alpine lakes named Lacs des Chéserys before reaching the last ladder which, luckily, isn’t quite as terrifying as the previous ones.

Follow the steps up to Refuge du Lac Blanc (2,352 metres) where you’ll be greeted by out-of-this-world scenery!!

A striking blue alpine lake nestled below jagged snow-capped mountains with magnificent views of Mont Blanc.

The trail will be extremely busy from this point as Lac Blanc is a popular day trip from Chamonix for day hikers and overnight hikers staying in the refuge.

To descend to Flégère, follow the signs. The descent is on uneven rocks but after about 20 minutes, the path is well-maintained and parts of the trail are on boardwalks. From Lac Blanc to the Flégère Gondola is about an hour.

From here, descend to Les Praz on the gondola and take the number 1 or 2 bus back to Rockypop where your adventure began.

Alternatively, if you have longer or you want to physically hike the entire Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, you can stay in Refuge de la Flégère and hike to Les Houches the next day. 

This is about 18.5 km and has an elevation loss of 1,590 metres which isn’t how we fancied ending this incredible experience!

• Distance to La Flégère: 7.4 km
• Elevation gain: 950 metres
• Elevation loss: 510 metres
• Approximate time: 5 hours
• Variations:  La Tête aux Vents via Col des Montets avoids the sections of ladders on the main route to Lac Blanc. This route adds on 1.1 km and is 15 minutes slower. A second variant takes you directly to Montage de la Flégère along Grand Balcon Sud which skips Lac Blanc, is 1 km shorter and 1 hour faster.
• Refuges and restaurants: – Refuge du Lac Blanc (5 km) – accommodation, restaurant, all-day refreshments, toilet and water
• Where to stay: Rockypop Chamonix-Les Houches

Anything Else You Need to Know Before Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

How accurate are these distances and timings.

Distances and timings in this Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary are all approximate. Even TMB guidebooks and maps all differ slightly.

The Cicerone Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc book and our paper map had different figures, though we found the map to be more in line with our smart watches, although these all also differed between the 3 of us who wore them. This guide is based on the map.

Timings will also vary by individual and group depending on your pace and number and length of breaks. The timings in the Cicerone book also don’t take breaks into account so bear this in mind. The timings in this guide are how long it took us with breaks.

Can I drink water from the streams and rivers?

There are a lot of cattle grazing on the TMB so we wouldn’t recommend drinking from the streams or rivers you’ll pass due to wildlife faeces. A stomach bug while you’re hiking is not what you need!

If you’re desperate as you’ve run out of water, make sure the water source is fast flowing and look upstream to see if there’s any wildlife currently grazing by or in the water and avoid drinking if so.

Can I leave my luggage anywhere while I hike the TMB?

If, like us, you plan on having a few chilled days somewhere after you’ve finished your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, you’ll want some clean and fresh clothes and maybe some outfits that aren’t activewear.

At Rockypop , you can leave your luggage for €5 per bag for the entire time which is great! There are a few other luggage storage services in Chamonix but these charge a minimum of €5 per bag a day and some will base it on the weight and size of the luggage.

How do I get to the starting point of the TMB?

The starting point of the Tour du Mont Blanc is in Les Houches and there’s even a sign marking the “official” starting line in front of the Tourism Office on the main street.

If you’re staying in Rockypop, jump on the number 1 bus in front of the hotel that’s going in the opposite direction of Chamonix and you’ll be there in a couple of minutes. 

If you stay in Chamonix, the number 1 bus goes from the centre of town and takes approximately 20 minutes.

Where can I relax for a few days after the TMB?

After you’ve completed your Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary, you’ll no doubt be looking for somewhere to spend a few days to relax, let your muscles recover and take in the great achievement you’ve completed. 

Annecy is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days. It’s a gorgeous city that looks like it’s been plucked from the pages of a storybook located on France’s third-largest lake and you can be as chilled or active as you like.

Read: 12 Fantastic Things to do in Annecy and Complete Guide

We hope you’ve enjoyed this Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary. Remember to head to our post on everything you need to know before hiking the TMB for everything else you’ll need to know.

As ever, if you have any questions, please leave us a comment or get in contact. 

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The Tour du Mont Blanc

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Experience one of the world’s most spectacular classic treks and join Mont Blanc Treks this summer, with our great range of professionally guided and self-guided trekking holidays.

The Tour du Mont Blanc features in the World’s top ten 'must do' treks and it's not hard to understand why, as this trek is outstanding with amazing views day after day. The full circuit takes you on a 170 km journey around the Mont Blanc mountain range accumulating 10,000m of height gain and descent. You will trek through three alpine regions within France, Italy and Switzerland, circumnavigating the mighty Mont Blanc which stands at 4810m.

The route is generally done in an anticlockwise direction starting and finishing in Chamonix. Having trekked the route many times, we have put together a selection of guided and self guided treks that we feel work well. The full circuit will take you 10 days and journeys through the most stunning environment day after day. For those who don't quite have the time to devote to the full circuit we have the 'Best of', a six day trek which focuses on the highlights. We also offer the Westerly section from Chamonix to Courmayeur or Easterly section from Courmayeur to Chamonix. If you prefer to be self guided, all our treks can be tailor-made to suit your needs with changes to the route and additional rest days.

See our Video and Photo Gallery for day by day visual information of the terrain and the views you will encounter. Get in touch for further information, we would love to share our passion and wealth of knowledge with you.

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Hike and Trek around Mont Blanc, which rises over 15,770 feet (4,808 meters) above sea level, and is the snow-capped queen of the Alps. Its flanks, glaciers, and deep valleys straddle three countries—France, Italy, and Switzerland. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc is the trip of a lifetime. As you circle the base of Mont Blanc you’ll experience the immense snowfields, hanging glaciers, wild-flowered meadows, and dense forests that decorate its walls. More than just a single peak, the Mont Blanc Range, which we compass, contains ten other major summits—each over 4,000 meters high. And with all that elevation you’ll find abundant glaciers, including the Mer de Glace and the Miage Glacier—the longest glaciers in France and Italy, respectively.

A classic Alps adventure awaits as you join one our guided or self-guided Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc treks.

Starting in Chamonix, France, the 12 days and 11 night Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc Alpenwild trek includes:

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The Best Hike of my Life: The Tour du Mont Blanc

Earlier this fall, four of us — total novices at long-distance treks — hiked around Europe’s highest mountain. (On the first day, big birds of prey circled high overhead. My hunch: They were vultures just waiting for one of us to drop.)

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 100-mile, ten-day hike — but we cheated a bit, hiking the best 60 miles in six days from mountain lodge to mountain lodge, catching local buses through the less exciting parts, and letting a “sherpa service” shuttle our bags each day through France, Italy, and Switzerland, from Chamonix to Chamonix.

This was the first time I’d enjoyed a slice of Europe with my girlfriend Shelley, and we were joined by Sue and David from Minnesota. (I’ve worked with David Preston for 20 years at TPT – Twin Cities PBS . In the public television world, he’s considered the “pledge drive guru.”)

Each day, we’d hike what the trail signs said would be a five-hour hike — that took us six or seven.  Our mantra: “Take our time. This is why we’re here.” Generally, the day would start at a 3,000-foot climb to a pass (or “col”) 8,000 feet above sea level. Each col was a little triumph, with its cairn of rocks arranged in a pile, dramatic weather blowing across, commanding views, and congratulatory selfies.

Part of our pre-trip training was taking steep hikes closer to home. As a typical day’s climb on the TMB is a thousand meters (or roughly 3,000 feet), I’d recommend choosing a practice hike with a 3,000-foot elevation gain so you can use it as a reference point. Ours in Washington State was the Mount Si trail. We even had a term for a 3,000-foot altitude gain: “a Mount Si.”

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Enjoy a True Mountain Adventure in Europe with Boundless Journeys

National Geographic Traveler rates this epic adventure in its "50 Tours of a Lifetime" and with good reason!

Boundless Journeys’ Tour du Mont Blanc hike is a thrilling circuit around Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. This Europe hiking tour combines the perfect mix of awe-inspiring mountain views and the vibrant influences of France, Italy, and Switzerland. Our walking route leads us between small Alpine villages, over mountainous passes, and along ancient glaciers as we travel through the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps.

Local expert guides will lead you from village to village as you dip down into a new valley each day and savor language, landscape, architecture, and cuisine changes. Throughout your journey, you’ll experience the cultural delights of three different countries. Our France tour explores the picturesque resort town of Chamonix. From there, we hike to the medieval city of Courmayeur, Italy, and then on to quaint Alpine villages in Switzerland, where you’ll enjoy delicious and hearty meals of local specialties. Join Boundless Journeys in Mont Blanc on this adventure tour of a lifetime.

Keen to plan your next trip? Peruse our small group Italy tour packages .

France, Italy, and Switzerland: Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking Highlights

• Expand Exploring the cobblestone streets of Chamonix, France and gazing in awe at the snow-covered peaks of Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak
• Expand Hiking along the foot of the huge Glacier de Bionnassay, and up to the Col de Tricot, then crossing two mountain passes: the Col du Bonhomme (7,600'), and the Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme
• Expand Stopping for lunch with views of the Mont Blanc massif from across the valley at Lac Blanc in the Aiguilles Rouges.
• Expand Tasting the many culinary delights to be found in the charming town of Courmayeur in Italy's Aosta valley region
• Expand Picnicking in peaceful alpine surroundings in Switzerland while perched high above France's world-famous wine region, the Rhone Valley
• Expand Descending into the Italy's Val Veny after crossing the border at the Col de la Seigne with views of the Aiguille Noire.

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

More beautiful than i could imagine, highly recommend, amazing picnic spots, unbeleiveable experience, spectacular, knowledgeable guides, outstanding, i cherished every moment., dream adventure, outstanding trip, great guides, the best guide, so pleased with boundless journeys, very nice trip, the most beautiful trek, fabulous time, a wonderful time, outstanding trip, spectacular, once in a lifetime trip, spectacular experience, pure beauty, awesome tour, beautiful surroundings, very together and professional, excellent guides, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, experiencing our world, exceptional alpine setting, completely impressed, the perfect family trip, the trip of a lifetime, the beauty of the alps, amazing trip, a changed perception, changed me forever, a most enjoyable trip, a bucket list trip, i cannot offer enough praise, great guide, one of the best trips i've taken, a deep-dive into so much, write a review, itinerary & accommodations.

Arrival in Chamonix; Trip Briefing & Welcome Dinner

We meet at our mountain hotel in Chamonix, France, a pretty village nestled under the flanks of snow-covered Mont Blanc (15,770'), the highest mountain in western Europe. Chamonix is the 'mountaineering capital' of Europe, and has been a climbing and skiing center for more than 100 years. This wonderful town has a charming atmosphere and is well-preserved with cobbled streets full of lively sidewalk cafés. This evening, we have a trip briefing and welcome dinner.

Accommodations

Hôtel Prieuré Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France

The Prieuré is a Savoyarde style chalet hotel with great balcony views of the Mont Blanc massif and Aiguilles Rouges, known for their local charm, service, and spa with sauna, hot tub and steam room.

• Activity Overview: Hiking
• Activity Level: Moderate with 1,700' elevation gain and loss
• Activity Length: 4-5 hours (about 6 miles)

Today we join our guide for an introductory hike up to the Aiguilles Rouges, with Lac Blanc as our destination. As we hike along the Grand Balcony trail, we get a dazzling view of many of the highest peaks in the Alps, with spectacular vistas over the entire Chamonix Valley and the massif, which we will hike around in the week ahead. We then return by cable car from La Flégère, or continue hiking along the Grand Balcony to the cable car station at Planpraz. You are free to enjoy local fare this evening in one of Chamonix's many wonderful Savoyard (regional) restaurants.

Les Houches to Les Contamines-Montjoie

• Activity Level: Strenuous; elevation gain of 2,400’ and loss of 4,400’
• Activity Length: 5-6 hours (approximately 8 miles)

The Mont Blanc circuit starts a few miles outside of Chamonix at the village of Les Houches, where we take a cable car up to Bellevue. The hiking begins here, with fantastic views of the Chamonix Valley's peaks and surroundings. We first hike along the foot of the huge Glacier de Bionnassay, and then up to the Col de Tricot (6,955'), with sight of the Dômes de Miage. A steep descent brings us to the Chalets de Miage, where we enjoy a picnic lunch with the beauty of the Alps around us.

Following lunch, we climb up the hill known as Truc, and then descend through a lovely forest to the charming resort village of Les Contamines-Montjoie, once a town of chamois hunters and smugglers, and today a popular mountaineering and ski area. 

Tonight there is time to explore the town, relax, and refuel for the next stage of our journey.

Hotel La Chemenaz Les Contamines-Montjoie, France

The Chemenaz is located in the small bustling resort town of Contamines les Montjoie. The hotel offers beautiful views of the "Domes de Miages" to the south of Mont Blanc, comfortable accommodations, and fine alpine hospitality. Relax after after the day’s hike in the swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi. Enjoy regional Savoyard specialties in their restaurant La Trabla.

Les Contamines-Montjoie to Les Chapieux

• Activity Level: Strenuous; elevation gain of 4,400’ and loss of 3,200’
• Activity Length: 7-8 hours (approximately 10 miles)

In the morning we make our way to the end of the valley and our trailhead at the pilgrimage chapel of Notre Dame de la Gorge—a church of unique Baroque architecture. From the church we walk along an old Roman road that climbs steadily through a beautiful forest, broad alpine pastures, and passes rustic chalets as we make our way to the Col du Bonhomme (7,600'), our first pass. After lunch at the Col du Bonhomme, a short, gradual uphill traverse takes us across Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme (8,200'), with superb vistas overlooking the Tarantaise region.

After a brief rest, we have a long and sometimes steep descent through rich, open pastures to the remote summer village of Les Chapieux (5,200'). A brief twenty-minute transfer will take us to our truly authentic Savoie hotel for tonight's stay. This evening, we enjoy a fine regional dinner at a charming, local restaurant.

Note: Today is one of the longest and most strenuous days on the Tour du Mont Blanc, as we cross two mountain passes, the Col du Bonhomme (7,600'), and the Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme (8,200').

Hotel L’Autantic Bourg Saint Maurice, France

A beautiful stone lodge located in the small mountain resort town of Bourg St. Maurice. Located in a tranquil setting with a beautiful courtyard and garden, L’Autantic is a short walk from town, offering mountain views, pool and sauna, and authentic Savoie style and hospitality. A bountiful breakfast is served in the welcoming veranda, overlooking the eastern side of the Mont Blanc massif.

Bourg St. Maurice to Courmayeur

• Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous; elevation gain of 1,600’ gain and loss of 3,600’
• Activity Length: 4-5 hours (approximately 8.5 miles)

We begin our day with a short transfer to the end of the Vallée des Glaciers. Leaving France, we hike into the Aosta region of Italy via grassy trails and ancient passages.

We climb eastward and enjoy a relatively easy hike over the Col de la Seigne (8,245').  The views are dramatic from the pass, encompassing the Aiguille Noire and the Italian face of Mont Blanc that dominates the Val Veni.

An easy descent brings us farther into Italy, and from the very first mountain refuge we pass, the cultural difference between France and Italy is striking. At the end of our day of hiking, we transfer to Courmayeur where we spend the remainder of the day exploring this resort town spectacularly settled beneath the Grand Jorasses and the Brenva Glacier. You are free to enjoy dinner this evening at one of Courmayeur's many fine restaurants.

Hotel Berthod Courmayeur, Italy

Hotel Berthod is a converted old country house in an ideal location in the center of lively Courmayeur, the "Italian Chamonix". The Berthod family who has operated the hotel for many years, embraces all guests with a gracious welcome and service. Balconies offer impressive views of Mont Blanc, and many shops and cafes are just a few steps away to immerse yourself in Italian culture for the evening.

Mont de la Saxe to Refugios

• Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous with about 1000’ elevation gain and up to 3000’ loss with several options
• Activity Length: 4-6 hours (6-10 miles)

Today, we experience the Tour du Mont Blanc route above Courmayeur overlooking the Val Ferret. We enjoy the stunning landscape of the massif from the Italian side, which is more dramatic and rugged than the French side. The peaks are closer allowing great views of the Dent du Géant, Grandes Jorasses, and others.

We take a local bus up the valley to start our hike along the ridge of Mont de la Saxe, where we have panoramic views along the way to Refugio Bonatti. We parallel the full mountain range and its steep and impressive south faces. After a lunch break, we continue our hike along the footsteps of the famous Ultra Trail of Mont Blanc and to Refuge Bertone before descending back to the valley to return to Courmayeur for some time to explore this charming town.

You may also choose to relax at our hotel's new spa before dinner on your own: soak in the hot tub or warm your muscles in the steam room or sauna.

Courmayeur–Champex

• Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous with 2,450’ elevation gain and 2,750’ loss
• Activity Length: 5-6 hours (about 9 miles)

After a short transfer from Courmayeur, we hike from Italy into the mountain wonderland of Switzerland via the Grand Col Ferret (8,400'), and pass beneath the massive granite peaks of Mont Dolent, the Dent du Geant, and the Grandes Jorasses. We hike through alpine meadows and past fast-flowing mountain streams on our moderate but spectacular climb towards the pass, enjoying amazing views of the icy southern flanks of the Mont Blanc massif.

The Grand Col Ferret has been in use for several centuries and serves as the Italian-Swiss border between Val D'Aosta and the canton of Valais. The landscape in the Swiss Val Ferret is gentler, with enticing streams and woodlands, and an extraordinary abundance of wildflowers.

Our arrival in Switzerland is greeted by the sound of Swiss cow bells, and rustic chalets with geraniums spilling from window boxes. We descend to the village of Ferret, and transfer to the mountain-ringed lake resort of Champex. There is time to relax before dinner at our comfortable hotel.

Hotel du Glacier Champex, Switzerland

Hotel du Glacier is a family-run hotel ideally situated on Lake Champex, reflecting views of the surrounding mountains. Swiss flags and cows with ringing bells in the surrounding area will welcome you in Switzerland. The hotel offers a billiards lounge and opportunity to relax in the or hot tub after a full day’s hike. Experience the local culture in the small village, a short walk away, before savouring a regional Swiss dinner.

Trient to Le Tour

• Activity Level: Moderate to challenging; elevation gain of 3,050’ and loss of 3,000’
• Activity Length: 5-6 hours (approximately 9 miles)

Today, we complete the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit on one of its most beautiful stages. After a transfer to the village of Trient at the base of a spectacular glacier, we hike through high pastures and back into France over the Col du Balme (7,230'), with glorious views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley below. We have lunch at the pass, enjoying the sweeping views over the massif we've circumnavigated, and then descend by foot or gondola to the village of Le Tour, from which we head back to Chamonix. We gather to celebrate our accomplishments tonight with a farewell dinner at one of the best restaurants in Chamonix.

Departure from Chamonix

Our trip ends after breakfast, and you are free to continue your exploration of Chamonix, or depart for your next destination.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.

Dates And Prices

Trip length.

Jun 29-Jul 7, 2024

Jul 13-21, 2024

Jul 27-Aug 4, 2024

Aug 17-25, 2024

Aug 31-Sep 8, 2024

Take over a date for your group! See "Make It Private" on Dates & Prices tab.

2024 Land Cost

From $ 4,995 Per Person

Single Supplement

First one reserved: $ 195

Additional: $ 695

See single supplement policy below .

Jun 28-Jul 6, 2025

Jul 12-20, 2025

Jul 26-Aug 3, 2025

Aug 16-24, 2025

Aug 30-Sep 7, 2025

2025 Land Cost

$ 4,995 Per Person

2025 Pricing Guarantee

2025 Pricing is not yet set. Until it is, 2024 pricing will be honored for 2025 dates, up to a 5% increase.

MAKE IT PRIVATE

9+ Guests: $4,995 per person

5 to 8 Guests: $5,495 per person

Make it Private price is based on Land Cost only, and a guarantee of the specified number of guests in double occupancy. For groups smaller than the numbers shown, or those requiring single occupancy, we reserve the right to adjust the per person price. Additionally, some trips have minimum group sizes. Please call 1-800-941-8010 for details.

What's Included

• Expert leadership
• All accommodations
• All meals except two dinners (Days 2 & 5)
• Local wine and beer with included dinners
• All transportation (cable cars, funiculars, trailhead transfers, and baggage transfers) during the trip
• All activities as noted in the itinerary
• Explorers Club savings on your next scheduled, small-group trip (conditions apply)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:  Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.

Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.

If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).

Single Supplement for Custom Tours . Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.

What To Expect

Physical activity.

Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. As one of our most challenging tours, Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking is rated 4, strenuous, on a scale of 1-5 (5 being the most strenuous). As this classic route completely encircles the Mont Blanc massif, we trek full days through spectacular mountainous terrain, "inn-to-inn" every day (except for our first hike on Day 2). Each rewarding day includes long elevation gains and losses ranging from 1,700 to 4,400 feet; hiking duration ranging from five to eight hours, and mileage ranging from seven to twelve miles. Most hiking is at altitudes between 5,000 and 8,000 feet, and the maximum elevation reached is 8,800 feet.

Although our luggage is transported each day, the hikes have no vehicle access (other than the start and finish), with no shorter options. All trip members should be in strong physical condition and have good hiking experience. No technical climbing experience is necessary. (Limited passenger seats are available in the luggage vehicle in the event a transfer is needed.) We encourage you to call our office for further information to help determine if this trip is right for you.

Trail conditions vary greatly, including a mix of wide dirt paths, hiking trails with rocks and roots, rough, large rocky steps, loose scree, and shallow stream crossings. Uneven terrain underfoot requires agility and stable footing. We request that you bring hiking boots with full ankle support and two trekking poles, which help provide comfort, stability, and most importantly, enjoyment. Our hikes take us through farmland, forest, rocky glacial terrain, and over mountain passes. Each hike includes sustained climbing and descending, sometimes steeply. The route does not travel through exposed sections with drop-offs, but does include limited sections of trail traversing steep hillsides, which may pose an issue for those with vertigo or a fear of heights. Feel free to call our office for further details.

Meeting Point

Chamonix, France

Departure Point

Traveling to and from.

Most Convenient Airport: Geneva International Airport; Geneva, Switzerland (airport code GVA)

Meeting Time and Place: Your guide(s) will meet you in the evening on the first day of the trip, in the lobby of our hotel in Chamonix.

Departure Time and Place: Chamonix, France, after breakfast on the last day of the trip. Please note that transfers to the Geneva International Airport take approximately 1.5 hours. Please plan your flight schedule accordingly.

In an alpine environment, weather is variable throughout the day and by elevation. A warm, sunny day in the valley can be anywhere from delightfully refreshing to downright brisk at higher elevations. Therefore, dressing in layers will be essential to your comfort throughout the day. Rain and snow are possible at any time, and weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so having rain gear and thermal layers on hand is advisable. At the same time, the sun is strong at higher elevations, and therefore adequate precautions should be taken to prevent sunburn, even on cool days.

You may obtain more detailed weather information by visiting www.weatherbase.com.

High: 77 Low: 55

High: 76 Low: 58

High: 70 Low: 48

Savoyard cuisine is centered around the incredible bounty of fresh foods available in the Alpine valleys of the region. You'll enjoy plenty of local cheeses and wines and most menus will feature soups, pasta, fish, meat, and salads. Breakfasts, lunches, and all but two dinners are included; your guide can make recommendations for wonderful local restaurants for those two evenings. Breakfasts include fresh fruit, sliced meats and cheese, yogurt, cereal, and pastries. Picnic lunches usually include fresh fruits and vegetables, cured meats, fresh bread, 2 or 3 local cheeses, and cookies or chocolate for dessert. Most dinners are at our hotels and consist of a good variety of Savoyard choices. Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice, though choices tend to be more limited.

A Note on Accommodations

The hotels we stay in are rustic, well-located for hikers, and busy in the summer season. Please note that these are hikers' hotels, not five-star resorts. The rooms are clean and comfortable, but are not always of uniform size, and amenities can vary. Although offering excellent service, the Hotel La Grande Ourse offers shared dormitory-style bathrooms (no private baths) and limited single rooms. Those who reserve a single room may be matched with another guest (of the same gender).

Featured Guides

Eric Thioliere

Sandrine Goulmy

About our guides.

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

• Departure Dates: Jun 29-Jul 7, 2024 Jul 13-21, 2024 Jul 27-Aug 4, 2024 Aug 17-25, 2024 Aug 31-Sep 8, 2024 Jun 28-Jul 6, 2025 Jul 12-20, 2025 Jul 26-Aug 3, 2025 Aug 16-24, 2025 Aug 30-Sep 7, 2025

France, Italy, and Switzerland: Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking

National Geographic Traveler rates this epic adventure in its "50 Tours of a Lifetime" and with good reason! Boundless Journeys’ Tour du Mont Blanc hike is a thrilling circuit around Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. This Europe hiking tour combines...

Moderate to strenuous inn-to-inn hiking, 5-8 hours per day with daily ascents and descents of 1,000-4,400 feet.

• Group Size: 4-16 Guests

Make it Your Own!

This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.

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Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting and finishing in the storied alpine town of Chamonix, France, the TMB circles Mont Blanc. This hundred-mile trail is one of the world’s most stunning—and definitely one of its most entertaining.

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This trek has it all: three countries, endless views of Western Europe’s highest peak—15,771-foot Mont Blanc—fresh-baked treats at high huts you stay in along the way, and views of climbers clinging to improbable spires. While downright decadent at times, thanks to the gourmet food and drink en route, the Tour du Mont-Blanc, 103 miles of hiking that circles Mont Blanc and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland, is no pushover. It comprises more than 32,000 feet of uphill hiking and descending. It offers gorgeous stretches of warm, summer Alps weather, yet full-on big-mountain storms can still descend on trekkers.

The Beautiful Mount Blanc Region

The Mont Blanc region of the Alps is huge, encompassing 155 square miles, with 60 square miles of glaciers and eleven summits over 13,000 feet. Ten thousand years ago, nomadic tribes gathered here, living off deer and chamois on the land and fish from the rivers. In time, they began herding animals, moving them to higher pastures in the summer, creating the annual Alpine rhythm called transhumance that persists to this day. Those paths created an intertwined network of trails around the massif. In the last 60 years, local communities worked on the ancient routes, upgrading them for modern use by active travelers. In the 1960s, old huts were updated, inns sprang up in the valleys, and the TMB took on its present form.

Starting and finishing in the adventure-crazed alpine town of Chamonix, France, at the base of Mont Blanc, the TMB is perhaps the world’s most famous pedestrian loop and definitely one of its most entertaining, passing through three countries and the resulting variety of cultures. Along with the lively hut scene, Michelin-star dining options en route, and stop-dead-in-your-tracks views, you may also see the world’s best trail runners breezing past.

Getting to Know the Tour du Mont Blanc

I began hiking and trail running the Tour du Mont-Blanc 15 years ago in sections—a day here, two days there. It wasn’t until seven years ago that I did the full loop in one continuous push. It was September 1, 2017, and 2,200 fellow trail runners joined me in the 14th edition of the iconic Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, or UTMB. Held each year at the end of August and easily the world’s most famous trail race, UTMB is one part of the reason the TMB (walking version) has become so popular.   

I’ve lived in Chamonix full-time for five years, spending five summers here before that, and founded and am part-owner of the trail-running tour company Run the Alps. The UTMB race is intense. Far more typical is the leisurely eight-day TMB hike I took with my two brothers and a cousin last September. My relatives booked a total of 11 days for the trip, which included their arrival and departure days, a day in Chamonix to adjust to Central European Time, and a rest day in Courmayeur.

We meandered around the range, napping in alpine meadows, chatting with shepherds, and snarfing up lunches at huts and inns all along the way. We started around 8:30 each morning, right after the continental breakfasts, and dropped our bags with the hotel for the pre-arranged transport to the next destination. (Pro tip: Skipping the baggage transfer to save money is a dubious trade-off. You do not want to lug the extra weight over the high passes.) With an organized start time, we’d arrive at our next destination mid-afternoon, usually in time for a shower, a post-hike beer, and a nap before dinner. Our weather was perfect: blue skies, temperatures in the 60s, and a light breeze, day after day.

I’ve hiked or run the TMB a dozen times now, and here’s my advice for beginners on how to do it right.

Tour du Mont Blanc Guide – Quick Links

How to get to the TMB | How Hard is it to Hike the TMB? | How Long Does it Take to Hike the TMB? | The Best Time of the Year to Hike the TMB | How to Book Your TMB Trip | Is the Trail Easy to Follow? | Lodging Options Along the TMB | Should I Plan My Own Trip or Go With A Guide? | Do I Have to Hike the Whole TMB Trail? | What to Pack to Hike the TMB | TMB Etiquette | The Best Piece of Advice of All |  Resources

1) How to Get to the TMB

Nearly all TMB travelers fly in and out of Geneva, Switzerland, which is just about 90 minutes from Chamonix, the traditional start and end point of the loop. There are multiple shared shuttle services, which typically cost about €35 and should be scheduled in advance. At Run the Alps, we use Mountain Dropoffs. They’re reliable, they track your flight, and their drivers are well trained and always courteous.

2) How Hard Is It to Hike the TMB?

Most fit hikers will find the TMB to be within their abilities, especially if they opt for a luggage transport service between huts and hotels, leaving them to hike with light daypacks. But the trail is a big undertaking and can be challenging.

The longest day is usually about 20 miles, with roughly 4,500 feet of climbing and descending. Most days total around 15 miles, with between 4,000 and 5,000 feet of climbing. The highest point you’ll reach is 8,323 feet, and you work naturally up to it, so altitude is generally a non-issue, though concern about it is a common misconception about the TMB.

A lot of hikers and trail runners will find the TMB to have a good bit of “vert” (vertical gain) along the route. There are almost no truly flat sections, and depending on how you plan your route, you can do up to or even more than 33,000 feet of climbing during the trip. To train beforehand, find a nearby hill, get the pack you intend to use, load it up, and head uphill. If your local terrain doesn’t lend itself to TMB training, sign up for a few months at a gym with treadmills that go up to a 20 percent incline, and start hiking, doing your best to ignore the looks of gym rats when they see your pack on your back.

Old-school hiking boots are fine but, increasingly, TMB hikers are switching to sturdy trail-running shoes, from brands like Hoka, Salomon, or Merrell. No matter what you bring, wear them in well in advance—which means a few weeks of daily use, then at least a half dozen hikes, to make sure they are broken in and fit comfortably.

3) How Long Does It Take to Hike the TMB?

Depending on your jet-lag coping skills and your interest in rest days, plan on anywhere from a week to 12 days. The TMB breaks down nicely into village-based stops, and the most common itinerary looks something like this: Chamonix, France (add a rest day in for the day after you arrive); Les Contamines, France; Les Chapieux, France; Courmayeur, Italy (add a rest day in here); La Fouly, Switzerland; Champex-Lac, Switzerland; Trient, Switzerland; back to Chamonix (add in a rest day or two here before flying out). Bingo, that’s the loop.

4) The Best Time of Year to Hike the TMB

Be forewarned: midsummer is busy. The trail is getting popular. Even before COVID, there was a notable uptick in TMB usage, and last summer saw by far the biggest visitor numbers yet. An estimated 200,000 hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners travel some sections of the TMB each year.

As of now, no permit is required to hike it, but you do have to book huts and hotels. The regional government has been talking with several nature reserves through which the TMB passes about implementing a permit system. Initially, at least, these permits would be both free and unlimited. The goal is to use the registration process to educate guests and track user numbers better—and hopefully to mitigate crowds.

As a result of the surge in use, the gens du pays— the local people who live and work along the TMB—are scrambling 24/7 during July and August. If you must go then, you’ll need to plan well in advance to secure bookings and will pay top dollar. Many tour operators stop taking midsummer reservations for the TMB by mid-winter.

If you have a flexible schedule, I’d suggest booking during the second half of June, or after the UTMB race at the end of August, when things quiet down again.

In the shoulder seasons of June and September, bookings will be easier and refuge staff will have more time to visit with guests and perhaps even share a beer. On the front end of the shoulder season, the last two weeks of June, high passes might still be holding onto their snowfields, and you’ll need to use caution if the slopes are frozen solid. Bring hiking poles with carbide tips and microspikes for traction, and always check conditions locally with tourist offices before striking off.

The September shoulder season is arguably better, thanks to snow-free passes and good odds of blue skies. Most refuges and public transportation are open and running until about mid-September. This late season on the TMB is a wonderful time, with fewer crowds and a bit more wildness. Warmer gear is a must, though, as nighttime temperatures drop to the 50s and lower, and be aware that snowstorms might shut down travel for a day.

July and August are the high season. If that’s your vacation window, booking a year ahead will help you get the hotel you want. (Pro tip: Ask your hotel to pack a bag lunch for you the night before, so you can enjoy lunch from a quiet pasture, rather than waiting to place an order with overworked hut staff.) Huts usually don’t allow picnicking at their facilities, but if you pass by before or after the lunch rush, you can always enjoy a cafe au lait with the view.

Even if it’s busy, it’s still the TMB. If you don’t mind sharing vistas with fellow travelers, the fundamentals are pretty darned spectacular. You’ll need a thesaurus when texting home, because hackneyed travel adjectives like spectacular, stunning, amazing, and jaw-dropping will all sneak into your writing. For once, they won’t be overstatements.

5) How to Book Your TMB Trip

You can set up the whole circumnavigation yourself, go with a guide, or use a tour operator to book everything in advance for you. Whatever you choose, set things up as far ahead as possible. “You need to be planning 10 months in advance to secure space if you want to get into all the hard-to-book places,” says Troy Haines, owner of Alpinehikers, a guided and self-guided hiking tour operator that has been leading trips on the TMB for two decades.

There is good news, though, for those with an open approach. “Being flexible in your thinking really helps,” says Haines. “If you have a range of dates that work, or are happy with a dorm one night or a fourth-choice hotel, or even taking a taxi to a nearby village, then there is almost always something we can do to put together a trip.”

If you’re planning your own TMB hike and working on the logistics in late winter or spring for the coming summer, you may need to get creative in at least one overnight destination and possibly several. Look for hotels and inns in adjacent villages, and schedule Taxi Besson, a service that gives hikers rides to and from trails, to meet you at a specific location and time and return you to the trek the following morning. Places that traditionally get booked out along the trail include: Les Chapieux, France, and La Fouly and Trient, Switzerland. Instead, taxis can take you to the Savoie town of Bourg St. Maurice or quiet, atmospheric villages like Beaufort or Arêches. If La Fouly is full, take the Swiss Post bus to Orsieres and then Champex-Lac, skipping ahead a day. If Trient is full, look to Finhaut, Switzerland, or Vallorcine, France. Consider the switch-ups an adventure, and a chance to explore villages a bit farther afield.

6) Is the TMB Trail Easy to Follow?

Whenever you go, the TMB is one of the easiest trails in the world to follow. No matter whether you’re hiking in France, Italy, or Switzerland, the signage is clear, with distances marked. (Predictably, Switzerland wins for best and most accurate signs.) Many junctions are named, with elevations shown on the signposts. The TMB trail itself is well-worn, so even if visibility is poor, you should have no problem staying en route.

7) Lodging Options Along the TMB

There may be no multi-day trek in the world that offers such an array of overnight options. Some guests are rolling out sleeping bag liners in shared dorm space, while others are sipping pricey Burgundy wines amid the five-star, red-carpet treatment at high-end hotels in Chamonix, Courmayeur, and Champex-Lac. (See the Resources section below for my favorite hotel options along the route.)

For those looking for a sky filled with thousands of stars, camping is an option, but with the recent proliferation of tents popping up around the range, it’s increasingly frowned upon by many of the guides on the trail and staff at nearby huts. If you want to camp, follow good Leave No Trace practices and be as unobtrusive as possible. Regulations vary widely along the TMB. Camping is usually permitted outside of nature refuges after sunset and before sunrise. If you’re overnighting near a hut, drop in during the afternoon and ask permission of the hut caretaker or guardian. Commercial camping businesses exist in all of the key towns around the TMB. Because of the convenient alpine villages sprinkled around the route, however, the TMB is a great choice for anyone who wants to leave the tent and camp stove at home.

Because the TMB passes through three countries, camping regulations along the trail vary. Below is a quick overview of the regulations.

In France, camping is allowed under the following conditions:

• In the proximity of a refuge, with the permission of the guardian.
• Outside of the Contamines nature reserve, you can pitch a tent between sunset and sunrise (7 P.M. – 9 A.M.). In the Contamines nature reserve, you must pitch your tent in the designated area near the Refuge de la Balme.
• Camping is not allowed under 2500m of altitude.
• In the Val Veny and Val Ferret zones, camping is only allowed in a designated campsite.

In Switzerland:

• Camping is allowed above tree level, but not within nature reserves.

8) Should I Plan My Own Trip (DIY), Self-Guide, or Go With a Guide?

If you’re a planner, the TMB is made for you. You’ll get to cruise around on hotel websites in three countries, poring over photos of standard, superior, and deluxe rooms.

Stephanie Lefferts, the tour manager at my company, Run the Alps, who works with more than fifty hotels, has three tips for DIYers:

• Book directly through a hotel’s website, if possible. You’ll often get a better rate and terms, and more money goes to the hotels, which are often family run.
• When in doubt, go for the half-board option, which includes dinner. As Lefferts points out, “It’s really nice to walk downstairs for dinner after a long day on the trail and not have to wander the town searching for somewhere to eat.”
• You guessed it: “Book early!”

Over the years, a number of planning sites have emerged for the DIYer–see our suggestions below and grab a copy of the venerable TMB bible, Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc by Kev Reynolds. The most recent edition was released in 2020. Be sure to get the IGN Tour du Mont-Blanc map as well.

B) Find an Outfitter Who Sets Up Self-Guided Trips

This means that a company will book everything for you in advance so that all you have to do is show up and hike. Most TMB outfitters know the better inns and hotels along the route. And if you need to spend a night off the trail, they’ll schedule taxi transport for you. You’ll also get route descriptions for each day along with supporting materials that can save hassle and confusion. Most companies will also arrange for transport to and from the airport and baggage transfer during your hiking days.

C) Go With a Guide

In the Alps, so-called “middle mountain” guides (meaning hiking rather than climbing guides) are a common sight, leading hikers and trail runners along paths throughout the region. The English designation is called IML, for International Mountain Leader. In French, it’s accompagnateur for a male guide and accompagnatrice for a woman. Guides in the Alps go through a rigorous training and testing process, and their knowledge runs deep on topics from mountain safety to flora and fauna to local customs and more. The additional cost of going on a guided trip can be well worth it, particularly if you’re busy and would like to just show up and follow a competent and friendly leader.

If you’re going on a guided trip, be sure to confirm that your company uses only licensed guides. Mountain police, Europe’s equivalent of a forest ranger toting a police badge, often check a guide’s paperwork, and more than one hapless group has had its TMB trip stalled by the presence of non-licensed guides.

If you use a commercial company for either a guided or self-guided tour, remember that not all companies offer the same tier of service. The cost difference can be thousands of dollars, and your overnight accommodations might range from a stuffy dorm room to a 600-thread-count king-sized bed with a mountain-view terrace. Read the fine print carefully to see what costs are covered, and if items like airport shuttles and in-country transport are included on your way back.

9) Do I Have to Hike the Whole TMB?

The TMB is well set up for hikers with limited time. Transportation around the region is relatively straightforward. There are multiple buses each day between Chamonix and Courmayeur through the Mont Blanc tunnel, and France’s SNCF passenger trains coordinate with Switzerland’s SBB rail system, which in turn dovetails with the country’s Postbus system. All of which means, getting around is easy. If you’re short on time, try some day hikes. These are my places to stay for dramatic day hikes around the region: Chamonix, Courmayeur, and Champex.

10) What to Pack For Your TMB Hike

Most summer days on the TMB are luxurious, with zephyrs rustling the pastures, blue skies, and great hiking temperatures. But any given day can be downright brutal. Hope for the best, but be ready for the worst. Here’s a typical packing list:  

• Warm and waterproof clothing for cold days, including a waterproof jacket and pants, a thermal top, and hat and gloves.
• Dry bags or a waterproof cover for your pack.
• Hiking boots or sturdy trail running shoes. Go for at least a few long hikes beforehand to make sure they are a good fit.
• Hiking or trail-running poles are a common sight on the TMB, and for good reason. The slight shifting of weight from legs to arms will reduce fatigue later in the day, and the third point of contact will make steep terrain safer.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen.
• A large water bottle or hydration pack that can hold at least two liters.
• First-aid kit including a mix of bandages and blister aids.
• About 200 euros, even though many of the mountain stops and most mountain refuges accept cards.
• A cell phone with an international plan. It’s a good idea to store the emergency numbers in your contacts. In France and Italy, the number is 112. In Switzerland, it’s 114. Calls to emergency numbers are free. Rescue fees vary from free to pricey throughout the Alps. Here’s a good rundown on the details. (TLDR? Get a membership in the Swiss nonprofit REGA, make sure your health insurance is up-to-date, and buy travel insurance from a reputable company, like IMG.)
• Bring your ATM card–there are ATMs at every stop except Les Chapieux and Trient. Just call your bank first to make sure the card is authorized for France, Italy, and Switzerland. Though Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc, euros are generally accepted around the loop.
• If you’re staying at mountain huts, most require a sleeping bag liner, which you’ll use in combination with wool hut blankets that won’t see a good washing until the close of the season. You can buy cotton, which has more bulk, or silk, which costs more but stuffs into about the size of a rolled washcloth.
• While most huts provide Crocs or flip-flops for indoor use, it’s not a bad idea to bring your own that are actually comfortably sized to you instead of whatever is in the hut shoe cubby.
• Ear plugs if you’re sharing overnight accommodations.

11) Learn the TMB Etiquette

As with many long-distance paths, there are rules to the road. On the TMB, they are well-established, thanks to the long history of the route.

At refuges :

• Shoes and poles in the boot room only.
• In shared rooms, try to be quiet at night, and don’t turn the light on if someone is sleeping. Turn cell phones off or to Airplane Mode.
• Use an indoor voice. (Yes, it really is true: Americans tend to be among the loudest.)
• A small tip is appreciated–perhaps a euro for a snack and cafe au lait, a few euros for a meal.

On the trail :

• Remember that there might be bikers, runners, or faster walkers who want to get past, so be ready to step aside.
• Share a “Bonjour” when passing fellow hikers.
• Please, don’t play music out loud. Grab the earbuds.
• Evidence is starting to mount that swimming in lakes has a negative impact on their ecosystems. Please minimize or avoid it, especially if you’re wearing sunscreen.

12) My Top TMB Advice: Treat Yourself!

The TMB has to be the hiking path with some of the tastiest aid stations en route. While you’ll burn over 4,000 calories a day, if you’re not adding it all back, well, you’re missing out.

This is ten years of in-depth culinary research in a handful of short paragraphs, but rest assured, the pleasure was all mine.

On one of my first TMBs, circling the Mont Blanc massif in four days as part of a trail-running mini-vacation, our group kept a literally running tally of the number of tartes aux myrtilles (blueberry tarts), pain au chocolates, and cafe au laits we had. We quickly lost track, though.

My brothers, cousin, and I repeated a version of this game last fall. In fact, counting tartes and other treats is a classic TMB tradition. Thanks to those baked mountain goodies and endless big views, the miles pass quickly. Before you know it you’ll be back on the steps of the centuries-old St. Michel Church in Chamonix, celebrating with beers from Big Mountain Brewery and looking forward to a fromage-filled celebratory dinner at La Caleche.

Here are some of my favorite stops en route.

• Refuge Plan de l’Aiguille : While not on the TMB, this high hut above Chamonix is well worth a visit. So, book a jet-lag recovery day in Chamonix, and head here for a TMB warm-up. Claude and his staff make what is widely considered the best tarts in the Chamonix valley, fresh each morning. The typical spread is wild blueberry, strawberry, lemon, and raspberry. (Take in the Midi tram, the world’s second-longest, on the same day.)
• Chalet Miage : Stop for lunch at this rustic mountain farm before the French village of Les Contamines and order anything on the menu. Really. It’s that simple.
• Alpage Ville de Glacier : If you’re not taking Col des Fours, look for this farm just outside the hamlet of Chapieux and stock up on local Beaufort and Sérac cheese directly from the farmer.
• Refugio Elizabetta : Time your wanderings to stop in for their traditional Italian lunches like hearty bowls of polenta, and all for a good price.
• Courmayeur, Italy : This TMB stopover town has a wide array of great restaurants, so schedule a rest day here. Get a gelato or an ice cream at the Gelateria in the center of town, and sneak down a side alley for focaccia at Pan per Focaccia. Pro tip: ask your hotel to book a taxi to the QC Terme roman spas at Pré-Saint-Didier. If you end up wanting more, the same company has a new facility waiting to ease the end-of-trip aches and pains in Chamonix.
• Alpage de Bovine : Switzerland is all about comfort food, and the grated potato and cheese Rostï at this high Swiss farm stop will persuade you that all is well with the world. Save room for an apricot or blueberry tart.
• Refuge Col de Balme : Wrap your hands around a thick hot chocolate as you look down to Chamonix and eye the last ten miles of your loop around Mont Blanc.

Santé et à bientôt!

13) Important Resources for the Tour Du Mont Blanc

Helpful sites for diy planners.

Autour Mont Blanc is a one-stop online planning site, with links to key huts and other services along the way.

The Hiking Club offers paid support for DIYers who want a hand building their own trips.

Taxi Besson : Taxi Besson is the go-to company to shuttle your bags around the TMB. They work with most major hotels in the region. Drop your bag by in the morning after breakfast, and it will be waiting for you at your next hotel that evening. (In my outfit’s ten years of using them, they’ve never once failed us.) Pro tip: Follow the weight-limit guidelines, ask at the hotel desk exactly where to leave your bag, and don’t tie anything to the outside.

Mountain Drop Offs transfers between Geneva and the Chamonix valley.

Tour du Mont Blanc Facebook Group : With nearly 37,000 members, this Facebook group is lively, filled with useful information. Ignore the know-it-alls, and you’ll find tons of good intel.

If you’re going on your own, Emily Geldard, a longtime resident and the Run the Alps assistant manager, has created a handy summary of options to shorten many of the days, in the event of inclement weather or injury. “ The Long and Short of the TMB ” offers information on bail-out options, plus a list of ways to extend each day if yesterday’s pastries have you energized for bonus terrain.

Outfitter Recommendations for Guided and Self-Guided Hiking

Alpinehikers , Cloud Nine Adventure , Alpenwild, and Happy Tracks are highly regarded tour operators who offer both guided and self-guided trips on the TMB.

Outfitter Recommendations for Guided and Self-Guided Running

Run the Alps is an Alps-based company with U.S. roots. (The author is the founder and part owner.) Run the Wild and Tracks and Trails are two other good options.

If You Need a Doctor

If you have an emergency, use the emergency numbers or ask your accommodation host to call a local doctor. Les Contamines, Courmayeur, and Argentière have pharmacies.

A handful of apps make the TMB easier to navigate, including Gaia GPS, which also contains weather data. Meteo Swiss is often used for weather.

(Gaia is owned by Outside Inc., the company that owns Outside.)

Learn Some of the Local Language

French / Italian:

• Hello = Bonjour / Ciao
• Thank you = Merci / Grazie
• Breakfast = Petit Dejeuner / Colazione
• How much is it? = Ça coûte combien? / Quanto costa?
• Do you speak English? = Est ce que vous parlez anglais? / Parla inglese?
• Where are the toilets? = Où sont les toilettes? / Dove e’ il bagno?
• This way? = Par ici? / Da questa parte?
• It hurts here = Ça me fait mal ici / Sono ferito qui
• Mountain hut = refuge de montagne / rifugio di montagna
• I need help = J’ai besoin d’aide / Ho bisogno di aiuto  

Great Side Trails to Explore

One of the best features of the TMB is that there are plenty of side trails to hike along the way. You can truly do your own hike, mixing the standard route with wilder variants, or hopping a local bus to skip sections. Hiking what we call a variant trail can be a great way to get away from crowds and find solitude. Here are a few of my favorites.

• France: Col de Fours : from Les Contamines to the must-see rustic lodge of Les Mottets, this is a direct variant that detours around Les Chapieux. It is a mere 350 feet of additional climbing–though much more technical than the norm–and a bit more than a mile shorter. It includes one of the highest points on the TMB (which should be avoided in bad weather). Best of all, there’s a high likelihood of seeing ibex.
• Italy: Val de Sapin : From Courmayeur to Bonatti Refugio, this adds an additional 1,300 feet of climbing and about a mile of distance. It is a wild and quiet valley, and you are likely to see ibex.
• Italy into Switzerland : Petit Col Ferret: Next to the Grand Col Ferret, this is an alternate route to La Fouly. It is the same distance and elevation, but the rocky descent is more technical. The trail is much quieter than the traditional route.
• Switzerland: Fenêtre d’Arpette : from Champex to Trient, this variant adds about 1,300 feet of elevation, and is a bit less distance, but it is a lot more technical and time-consuming. Because of the high altitude and slippery rock, it should be avoided in bad weather and certainly during the early season. The route’s steep and icy snowfields linger into early summer and have led to a fatal slide every few years. The scenery is wild and other-worldly, and the trail is usually quiet.
• Switzerland into France: Les Tseppes : From Trient to Argentière, France, this variant adds a few hundred feet of elevation and about a mile of distance. The start is steep and daunting, but worth the challenge. The trail is quiet, and you are treated to wide-ranging views of the Vallorcine valley and Mont Blanc.

The Author’s Lodging Recommendations Along the TMB

• High End : If you want modern and plenty of amenities, Heliopic is your go-to. Want authentic French? Head to the Hameau Albert 1er.
• Middle : Le Refuge des Aiglons is modern, with a nice spa, pool, and outdoor seating. For something more rustic, head down the street to Hotel Oustalet, which features a large yard that’s somehow quiet, despite its central location.
• Rustic : La Boerne is located out of town in the tiny collection of chalets known as Tré-le-champ. It’s a ten-minute walk to the local train, which is 20 minutes from Chamonix. There’s also bus service from Argentière, a 15-minute walk away.

Les Contamines

• High End : Hôtel La Chemenaz. Spacious private rooms and suites, with an outdoor swimming pool and spa.
• Middle : Gai Soleil. Family-run by passionate staff, this converted farm has been hosting tourists since the 1920s. The private rooms have a cozy, alpine feel.
• Rustic : Chalet Refuge de Nant Borrants. Set on the TMB trail, a little outside of Les Contamines, this refuge is secluded and traditional. The dormitories are clean, with just six to nine people in each room.

Les Chapieux

• High End : Taxi to Bourg St-Maurice and stay at Hotel L’Autantic or Hotel Base Camp Lodge des Arcs.
• Middle : Chambres du Soleil. Family-run, with excellent food cooked by the husband. There are woodburners in the dining rooms, and blankets in the bedrooms made from local wool.
• Rustic : Refuge Les Mottets. The food is hearty mountain style using local cheeses, and the dining room is decorated with historic farming equipment. A refuge staffer often plays music at dinner time on the player piano in the dining room.
• High End : Grand Hotel Courmayeur. Modern and stylish rooms, with an indoor pool and spa.
• Middle : Bouton D’Or. Traditional, alpine decor, and a fantastic breakfast buffet that is all homemade. The fruits in the breakfast tarts are grown in the kitchen garden.
• Rustic : Cabane du Combal. A secluded location in the mountains, on the TMB but outside of Courmayeur.
• High End : Take a taxi to Verbier and stay at La Cordée des Alpes. Modern rooms with alpine decoration.
• Middle : L’Hôtel Edelweiss. Clean, modern rooms that have been recently renovated.
• Rustic : Gîte Alpage de La Peule. This is an active dairy where you can buy the products, and see how different cheeses are made.
• High End : Hôtel Alpina. A husband-and-wife partnership with Michelin-standard food cooked by the husband. The building is small and has a private, family feel.
• Middle : Hôtel Splendide. A historic and grand hotel built in the 1930s. Think high ceilings, stained-glass windows, and creaky wooden floorboards.
• Rustic : Relais d’Arpette. A traditional mountain auberge on a variant taking you a 20-minute walk off the TMB, on the Fênetre d’Arpette, in a secluded valley outside of Champex. Fantastic views.
• High End : Take a taxi to Argentière and stay at the Hôtel Les Grands Montets. Access to a spa and indoor swimming pool. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with alpine deco.
• Middle : La Grande Ourse. Clean, modern rooms and friendly staff.
• Rustic : Refuge Le Peuty. Excellent food served in a yurt with homemade, artsy decorations.
• High End : Hôtel Les Grands Montets. Access to a spa and indoor swimming pool. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with alpine deco.
• Middle : With an old standby, the Hôtel de la Couronne, newly sold and under renovation until at least December 2023, middle-of-the-road accommodations are thin in Argentiére. A good alternative is to take public transport or a train to Chamonix or Vallorine, and double up your nights in one of your last hotels.
• Rustic : La Boerne. Another traditional auberge that is right on the TMB trail. It is in a quiet, secluded spot with a beautiful terrace. The building is full of character, with wooden beams and bunkbeds.

If You Get Shut Out of the TMB This Year

Troy Haines of Alpinehikers likes to point clients toward other, quieter destinations in the Alps, such as the Haute Route between Chamonix, France, and Zermatt, Switzerland; Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland; or Italy’s Dolomites. “All of them, TMB included, are simply stunning,” Haines says. “You really can’t go wrong.”

How to Be a Conscientious Traveler

While the seven principles of Leave No Trace are not specifically called out along the TMB, they are excellent guidelines, particularly as the TMB or any other place becomes busier. Learning a few phrases of the local language is always a nice icebreaker and shows respect, and please be patient with busy hut and innkeepers. When passing through the huts, follow the simple protocol of removing and storing boots and poles. Protocols are often posted right inside the doors.

Doug Mayer is the founder of the trail-running tour company Run the Alps . He lives in Montroc, France, 100 yards from the TMB, where he often trail runs with his labradoodle, Izzy. His new book is The Race That Changed Running: The Inside Story of the UTMB.

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Guided Best of the Tour du Mont Blanc

For a quick trip to the Mont Blanc region, our Best of TMB tour is a fantastic week hiking from Courmayeur through Switzerland to Chamonix.

• Guided Group ,
• Inn-To-Inn ,
• Relaxed to Moderate ,

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the best hiking tours in the world. If you don’t have time for the full circuit, you at least have time for this.

Hike from Courmayeur to Chamonix across the northern half of the tour. This has always been our favorite stretch of the TMB. You hike through all three countries, visit both Courmayeur and Chamonix, eat great food, meet wonderful people, start with unbelievable views from day one and finish with more great views of Mont Blanc on your last day. What can be better?

Yes, you can express your way through the whole circuit in a week, but that requires prioritizing passes over highlights. This isn’t that. You won’t see the southern half of the TMB on this tour, and you won’t miss it. This trip moves at the right pace and leaves time for the most important sights and best hikes. You will love it.

Our guided tours are all guaranteed… if you sign up, the trip is going. Our guides know the trails, they know the inns, and they have their favorite lunch spots to show you. Turn off your mind for a week, relax, and don’t worry about a thing. We’ve got it covered on the guided Best of the Tour of Mont Blanc.

See our Self-guided version

• 7 days, 6 nights
• Jun 28 – Jul 4, 2024 Sold Out!
• Jul 5 – Jul 11, 2024 Sold Out!
• Jul 26 – Aug 1, 2024 Sold Out!
• Aug 2 – Aug 8, 2024 Sold Out!
• Aug 9 – Aug 15, 2024 Sold Out!
• Sep 6 – Sep 12, 2024 Sold Out!
• Sep 13 – Sep 19, 2024 Sold Out!
• $4795 Per Person
• $1150 Single Room

Itinerary At a Glance

Italy, courmayeur.

Fly to Geneva and transfer to Courmayeur, the sunny Italian side of Mont Blanc. Take some time to explore this beautiful village. After a peaceful first night, we’ll stretch our legs on a fabulous day hike to Bonatti hut.

Switzerland, la Fouly to Trient

Now we hike across the Ferret pass and into Switzerland. Our three days here are filled with great walks, tidy Swiss villages, postcard-perfect lakes and beautiful mountains.

France, Chamonix

Hiking over the Balme pass, we arrive in France to jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc, Aiguille Verte and the entire Mont Blanc range. Descend to charming Chamonix for a final night.

Your tour will be led by an experienced Alpinehikers guide, with guided hikes daily. All transfers to and from trailheads are included. You’ll stay 5 nights in village hotels and 1 night in a hiker’s inn, with all breakfasts, picnic lunches, and 5 dinners included. Luggage transfers to all stops are also part of your tour.

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

Full Itinerary

We’re going to start in beautiful, medieval Courmayeur. Fly to Geneva, and make your way to the sunny village of Courmayeur in Italy. Our home here is a very pleasant and friendly hotel near the center of town.

If you arrive early, there is plenty to do in the village, cable cars take you up to high vantage points, or just wander through town. Courmayeur is a beautiful village, with cobblestoned pedestrian-only alleyways filled with comfortable cafes and stylish shops. Later in the afternoon, you’ll meet your guide and group for dinner as your Mont Blanc tour begins.

Arrival: Geneva.  Plan to arrive by the day your tour starts.  You will need to book a private taxi from GVA to Courmayeur.  The trip takes 2½ hrs, but can be much longer during the day when there are long wait times at the Mont Blanc Tunnel.  We recommend booking taxis with Mountain Dropoffs or Chamonix Valley Transfers.

You might consider coming a day early and adding a night in Chamonix before your tour so you can travel through the tunnel to Courmayeur before 8:30 am.  Ask if you would like help with these plans.

After one of our favorite breakfasts at the Bouton d’Or, you’ll head out on a dayhike high above town. One of our favorite hikes leads up to a high ridge above town. You’ll reach incredible views of Mont Blanc and the Grandes Jorasses on a pleasant balcony walk to Bonatti hut. Stop for a drink at the hut and descend to the valley to transfer back to Courmayeur for a 2nd night. This is a grand panoramic hike and is a stunning introduction to the Mont Blanc region.

If you’d rather take it slow and easy today, Courmayeur is great for people-watching and relaxing, perhaps even taking a short trip on your own down to the Pre St. Didier Spa with its renowned natural mineral baths. You’ll be on your own for dinner in Courmayeur tonight.

HIKE: 5-7 hours, 9 miles; Elevation: 3920 ft. up, 3150 ft. down

The Italian side of Mont Blanc is steep and rocky, and the Grand Jorasses rivals Mont Blanc as the focal point of our views on one of the highlight hikes of the tour.

On this stage of the TMB, we’ll cross the Grand Col Ferret and into Switzerland, with rolling green meadows filled with happy cows. We’ll descend to la Fouly, and tiny village at the end of a quiet valley in Switzerland. It’s quaint, quiet and beautiful here. Our luggage will be transferred here from Courmayeur.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 9 miles; Elevation: 2840 ft up, 3390 ft down

An easier day today takes us through the Swiss Ferret Valley. This is one of the more relaxing days on the tour. Waterfalls cascade down mountains as we hike down-valley and then up to the pretty lakeside village of Champex.

Champex is postcard-perfect, a painfully cute town next to a beautiful surrounded by mountains. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon on a terrace overlooking the lake. Our luggage will be waiting at our 3-star village hotel and we’ll have a hearty meal at our hotel tonight.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 9.5 miles; Elevation: 1560 ft up, 2000 ft down

The next stage on the TMB presents us with a choice – the high rugged Arpette route, or the wooded Bovine route. Your choice will depend on weather, conditions and general mood. If we stay low, the Bovine route takes us through woods and past waterfalls to a rustic farm with sweeping views of the Rhone Valley.

Weather permitting, a more rigorous possibility leads up and over the steep Fenetre d’Arpette pass with dazzling views to the Trient Glacier, a popular variant on the traditional TMB route. We’ll stay in the Grand Ourse, a hiker’s inn in nearby Trient.  Private room with shared bathroom down the hall.

HIKE: 6-8 hours, 10 miles; Elevation: 2500 ft. up, 3050 ft. down (Bovine) or 7-9 hours, 10 miles; Elevation: 3940 ft. up, 4480 ft. down (Fenetre d’Arpette)

The final hike on our Mont Blanc tour is another great one. A steady uphill trail leads us through woods and meadows to the Balme Pass on the border with France.

Enjoy gorgeous views of Mont Blanc and the entire Chamonix Valley as we cross the pass and descend to la Tour. After a short bus ride back to Chamonix, we’ll have a bit of time for the pool at our Chamonix hotel, and then enjoy a special celebratory dinner at a favorite local restaurant.

HIKE: 5-7 hours, 8 miles; Elevation: 3160 ft up, 2580 ft down

Today we say au revoir , and depart for our 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

Guided group.

• All departures guaranteed. No minimum group size.
• A moderate inn-to-inn with 5 stops in 6 nights
• Luggage transfers included every night
• The highest peaks in the Alps – Mont Blanc, Grandes Jorasses and more
• Hike through 3 countries – Italy, Switzerland, France
• The northern half of the classic Tour du Mont Blanc circuit

Guided Classic Tour du Mont Blanc

• Big passes almost every day. Not too hard, but not easy either
• A fairly strenuous inn-to-inn with 8 stops in 10 nights
• Luggage transfers included every night on the tour.
• Hike through France, Italy and Switzerland
• A great tour for meeting other hikers from around the world
• $5995 Per Person
• $1450 Single Room

Guided Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc

• A fairly strenuous inn-to-inn with 7 stops in 10 nights
• 6 nights in deluxe hotels, private transfers, luggage every night
• The most luxurious version of the Alps’ most renowned tour
• The highest peaks in the Alps, Mont Blanc, Grandes Jorasses and more
• Extra days in Chamonix and Courmayeur to relax and unwind
• $7995 Per Person
• $1550 Single Room

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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. 

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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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As Seen In:

• 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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 7

Stage 7 of the Tour du Mont Blanc is both the shortest and the easiest leg. Meandering through the Swiss ‘Val Ferret’, this stage meanders low along the valley floor from the village of La Fouly through forest and meadows with the last 90 minutes an uphill spurt to the most beautiful section of the Swiss TMB, the charming lake town of Champex-Lac.

Stage 7 is the first stage to be recommended to drop if you’re looking to fast pack the TMB or just want to shave off a day. Whilst the Swiss hamlets are charming, this stage is far less remarkable than any other leg of the Tour du Mont Blanc with none of the aggressive, impressive raw beauty that you will have hiked through to get here. It’s easy to pick up the bus at Ferret or La Fouly and change at Orsiere for Champex-Lac.

Saying that TMB purists wouldn’t think of dropping a stage and if you’ve got time on your side, it’s nice to complete the entire circuit, and stage 7 will give you a relatively easy day on the trail to rest your legs and arrive early to enjoy the lake side at Champex-Lac, or if you’re aiming to tackle the alternative Fenêtre d’Arpette route, which should only be taken in good weather , (which will take you to the highest point of the TMB, 2665m), press on to refuge Relais d’Arpette (1627m) which is the perfect place to stay the night.

Tour du Mont Blanc stage 7

La Fouly – Champex-Lac

The Swiss village of La Fouly sits at the foot of two mighty mountains, Tour Noir (3, 836m) and Mont Dolent (3,823m) which incredibly is the tri-point where all three of the Tour du Mont Blanc countries, France, Switzerland and Italy’s borders meet!

The main villages and hamlets of the valley are Ferret, La Fouly, Prayon, Praz de Fort, Les Arlaches, Issert and Som la Proz. All of which you will pass through apart from the last when you will turn uphill for the last 90 minutes to Champex-Lac (pronounced Champay-Lac).

The route hugs the left side of the valley, following the west bank of the river La Drance de Ferret and parallel to the main valley road which can easily be heard as your hiking. In wilderness you are not!

The best part of stage 7 is that you’ll wander through a couple of charming Swiss hamlets. The tiny Les Arlaches with it’s interlaced wooden roofs are a real gem.

Stage 7 – the route

The Tour du Mont Blanc stage 7 starts at the tiny ski resort of La Fouly. The village clusters around the main road with a small supermarket and several places to stay, the most prevalent Auberge des Glaciers which is right next to the supermarket.

It’s easy to pick up the trail opposite the Grand Hotel du Val Ferret where the route cuts down, over a sluice, through campsite Camping Les Glaciers and follows the left side of the valley.

The route is clearly marked with either proper signposts emblazoned with the green TMB sticker or with yellow painted diamonds.

The impressive mountain wall rising to Tour Noir flanks you on your left. Look out for the free falling waterfall ribbon and in good weather brightly clad climbers dotting the stone wall up high. The route, undemanding, meanders gently downhill along the bank of the river, crossing stony sections with occasional avalanche debris. At several places bridges cross the river on the right, the second leading to the tiny hamlet of Prayon. Ignore these and stay on the main path, following the well marked signs.

The trail climbs away from the river and hits a semi exposed 20-30 metres section with fixed metal chains attached to the rock to help in bad weather or to placate nervous hikers (photo below). Whilst it’s not really a dangerous section, a fall here could prove fatal. Pay attention.

The views of wooden chalets amid mountain meadows and the sound of braying donkeys in the fields are quite lovely.

The route continues up here through pleasant forest and it’s not long now before you’ll hit Praz de Fort turn off. Pay attention – this was the first sign that I missed and consequently had to back track, annoyingly uphill! The sign pointing to the right wasn’t marked TMB, just a yellow hikers sign, however the description was accurate in the guidebook to take it but I continued on, just in case. Don’t – this is the turn off but if you carry on like me, you’ll descend a steep slope to some agricultural barns and can easily carry on down the slope where you’ll meet up with the trail again. I back tracked to take the TMB path which continues down a rather lovely elevated tree tunnelled path which is actually a now redundant moraine from the glacier.

At the end of this leaf shrouded elevated track, turn left onto the road and follow it into the village of Praz de Fort. Continue down through the village until you cross the main road, cross the bridge and take up a track up ahead on the left.

This leads you across green pastures with cattle grazing. Up ahead of you it’s possible to just make out Champex-Lac high above the forest. That’s the climb for the day but for now enjoy the gentle track and the charming hamlet of Les Arlaches. The ancient wooden buildings crammed into the hamlet have criss crossing roofs and narrow doorways. Very instagrammable darling. In fact this village is one of the reasons why you should trek stage 7 of the TMB.

After Les Arlaches, descend across the fields to Issert where you’ll join up to the main road. Turn right and walk only a few hundred metres before seeing the TMB signs on the opposite side. It’s here you’ll begin your ascent to Champex-Lac. Expect it to take a good hour and a half. T

he trail zig zags through the forest with various woodland creatures carved into tree stumps. Half way up there’s a chance to re-plenish water supplies at a drinking pump as well as a picnic table. It’s a good spot to rest a moment before pushing on to the top where a hearty meal is surely waiting at your Champex-Lac hotel.

Read about each country on the TMB

The Tour du Mont Blanc trail passes through 3 countries. France. Italy. Switzerland. Find out more about each country, the trail and their stages below.

Read more information on everything TMB France related here

Switzerland

Find out more about everything Swiss TMB related here

Ciao! Read all about the Italian side of the TMB trail here

Further Reading...

Money on the TMB

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Tour du Mont Blanc Tips - good advice before you begin

Planning - the first steps, tour du mont blanc hike, privacy overview.

Esquire's First-Ever Watch Lover's Tour

An exclusive tour with Creative Director Nick Sullivan.

You’re invited to join Esquire’s Creative Director, Nick Sullivan, for an eight-day, seven-night journey into the world of haute horlogerie in Switzerland. Your tour starts and ends in vibrant Geneva, with overnights in the charming city of Neuchâtel. Explore the inner workings and fascinating history of renowned watch companies like Audemars Piguet, Breitling, JaegerLeCoultre, OMEGA, Tag Heuer, and Patek Philippe, igniting your passion for precision and craftsmanship. Learn how Switzerland grew, refined, and developed the industry and find out firsthand why it continues to be the seat for precision manufacturing. Meet with the craftsmen and historians who wind the gears of the industry. Enjoy exclusive access and private receptions in showrooms and guided tours of some of the world’s finest watch collections.Indulge in Swiss delights–from delectable chocolates to savory fondues–on walking tours and during indulgent meals on lakeside terraces. Explore the breathtaking landscape alongLake Geneva, the picturesque Lavaux wine region, and the historic Château de Chillon–one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe.

This bespoke tour features special access and a behind-the-scenes view of Switzerland’s timeless watch industry, which will provide a deeper appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship behind Swiss Watchmaking.

Sunday May 11, 2025:

Grüezi geneva.

- Independent transfers to the hotel - Take a customized guided tour of the Patek Philippe Museum, home to one of the world’s most important and prestigious watch collections - Welcome reception and dinner at Windows Restaurant, with panoramic views of the lake and Mont Blanc

Included Meals: Dinner, Reception Accommodations: Hotel D’Angleterre

Monday, May 12, 2025:

Getting to know geneva.

- Join a local guide for a walking tour of Geneva - Cartier visit (on request) - Enjoy lunch as a group at a local restaurant - Indulge in a walking tour with visits to six chocolateries, including a blind chocolate tasting and opportunities to sample the favorite treats of Winston Churchill, Grace Kelly, and John F. Kennedy, Jr. - Explore Geneva’s charming lakefront on your own this evening

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodations: Hotel D’Angleterre

Tuesday May 13, 2025:

Into la vallée.

- Spend the day in Vallée du Joux, home to some of the world’s most famous watchmakers - Experience a behind-the scenes visit to the various ateliers at Jaeger LeCoultre, with presentations about the history of watch manufacturing in the region, an opportunity to see the historic collection, examine the different processes of watchmaking, and to meet with key members of the team - Dine on site at Jaeger LeCoultre - Continue to Audemars Piguet for a tailored factory visit to include a welcome drink and guided visit of the striking Musée Atelier - Return to Geneva for an evening at leisure to continue exploring the lakeside promenade and restaurants

Wednesday May 14, 2025:

From chillon to cheese.

- Start the day with a scenic drive through beautiful lakeside scenery to Château de Chillon, a stunning medieval castle surrounded by water - Take a private factory tour and tasting with a traditional fondue lunch at the eponymous La Maison Du Gruyere - Continue to the lakeside town of Neuchâtel, Switzerland’s horological capital - Enjoy dinner at Restaurant O’terroirs at your hotel, with views of the lake and surrounding Alps

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodations: Hotel Beau Rivage

Thursday May 15, 2025:

Watch wonders: panerai and tag heuer.

- Your day begins at the new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility of Panerai, high in the hills above Lake Neuchâtel, and learn about this luxury brand, which prides itself on durability - Indulge in an Italian lunch at Panerai - Continue to La Chaux-de-Fonds for a bespoke visit to Tag Heuer, and an opportunity to visit the ateliers and learn about the meticulous craftsmanship of this leading brand - Return to Neuchâtel this evening for dinner on your own

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodations: Hotel Beau Rivage

Friday May 16, 2025:

Legendary timekeepers: breitling and omega odyssey.

- Drive along the lakes of Neuchâtel and Bienne to Grenchen for a hosted visit to the Breitling manufacturing facility, to include a unique “touch and try” experience with pieces from Breitling’s newest collection - Gather for a traditional lunch at a farmhouse on the Breitling property Experience a private visit and reception at the OMEGA manufacturing headquarters and Museum in Bienne with members of the company’s senior management - Return to Neuchâtel for dinner as a group

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Reception, Dinner Accommodations: Hotel Beau Rivage

Saturday May 17, 2025:

A toast to time.

- Journey along Lake Geneva through the Lavaux wine region - Delight in a tour, tasting, and light bites at Domaine de la Crausaz, a historic winery founded in 1515 in the heart of Lavaux’s UNESCO heritage - Return to Geneva with time to refresh and explore the town before a final reception at the Fondation Haute Horlogerie (FHH), a nonprofit organization created by the Richemont group, Audemars Piguet, and Girard Perregauxto disseminate the international influence of watchmaking culture, located on a bridge spanning Lac Léman - Celebrate your journey with a festive final traditional meal atan iconic local restaurant, featuring live Swiss folk music

Included Meals: Breakfast, Wine Tasting, Reception, Dinner Accommodations: Hotel D’Angleterre

Sunday May 18, 2025:

- Independent transfers to the airport

Included Meal: Breakfast

Deposit: $1,000 Double Occupancy: $11,500/person Single Occupancy: $13,850 BOOK HERE Questions? Call 877-298-9677

Notes: Space is limited to 25 travelers. Esquire Escapes are hosted by a third party. All itinerary details subject to change.

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