tour du mont blanc z namiotem

• Mountaineer fatality on the North Face of the Aiguille du Midi
• The 45th edition of the Mont-Blanc Marathon this weekend in Chamonix
• La Flamme Olympique à Chamonix: programme et infos pratiques
• Mont-Blanc tunnel closed from June 19 evening until June 21 morning
• Chamonix Run Festival June 7th to 9th, 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.

Compare & Book Online with Chamonix.net

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.

Social Networks

Latest News

The Ultimate Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the world’s most iconic treks. Frequently referred to as the ‘TMB’ for short, the Tour du Mont Blanc circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif and takes trekkers through France, Italy, and Switzerland over the course of 11 stages. Along the way you’ll experience stunning valleys, high-mountain passes, incredible cuisine, and some of the best hiking in the world.

This guide is designed to be the perfect planning companion for your own Tour du Mont Blanc adventure. We’ve included everything you need to know to have a spectacular trip in one place, so you can be sure you’ve thought of everything. Read it through in a single go or jump to a specific section below, but rest assured knowing you’ve found the best resource on the internet for planning your Tour du Mont Blanc trek. Let’s get started!

In this Tour du Mont Blanc Guide

• How long is the Tour du Mont Blanc?
• How difficult is the Tour du Mont Blanc?
• Which direction should I hike?
• When should I hike the TMB?
• Designing your TMB Itinerary
• Shortcuts, detours, and rest days on the TMB
• Stage-by-stage Itinerary for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation

• Getting to Les Houches from Geneva
• Getting to Champex from Geneva
• Luggage storage and transfer on the TMB
• Weather on the TMB
• Food and drink on the TMB
• Maps & Guidebooks
• Budgeting and money
• What to pack for the TMB
• How to train for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Everything you need to plan your TMB – all in one place.

Whether you prefer mountain huts or hotels, fastpacking or meandering, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.  Our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc  is the ultimate tool to help you plan your perfect trip.

When you purchase a guide, you’ll get instant access to all the information you need to plan your trip in our planning portal as well as in a downloadable PDF eGuide.

• Planning Portal Access: Get instant access to our online trip planning portal complete with 9-day, 11-day, and 12-day TMB itineraries.
• Accommodation Insights:  You’ll get information on accommodation options for every stage, including where to book when popular huts are fully booked!
• GPS Maps:  Every guide comes with custom GPS maps for three different itineraries. Download the maps for offline use so you’ll always be able to find your next campsite.
• Expert Advice:  Find detailed maps for every stage, accommodation & booking information, packing lists, and much more.

We’re confident this is the best resource available for camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc.  Pick up your guide below and if you’re not satisfied for any reason we’ll give you a full refund!

( 100% Money Back Guarantee )

About the Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a 170-km trek that circles the Mont Blanc massif. The route is traditionally walked in the anti-clockwise direction over 11-stages. The TMB starts and finishes in the French village of  Les Houches , which sits adjacent to the popular mountain town of  Chamonix . Along the way the trail passes through seven unique and beautiful valleys, where charming hamlets and regional delicacies abound. Between the valleys, the route traverses   a rugged mountain landscape and stunning high alpine scenery.

 The TMB is one of the most popular long-distance treks in Europe, with over 10,000 hikers per year embarking on their own walk around Mont Blanc. It is easy to understand why when considering the  ease of access to the trek , plentiful  accommodation options , and the fact that the route is  achievable by most reasonably fit walkers . The closest major city to the TMB is Geneva, Switzerland, located  just a few hours north by train or bus . 

The route passes through seven mountain valleys (Val d’Arve, Val d’Montjoie, Vallee des Glaciers, Val Veny, Italian Val Ferret, Swiss Val Ferret, and Vallee du Trient) and visits charming alpine hamlets as it winds its way around Mont Blanc. Contrary to what many believe, the TMB does not go through the iconic French mountain town of Chamonix, instead taking a trail high-above this famed destination.

Want to see the entire TMB in three minutes? The fly through video below will take you along the entire circuit, providing a helpful overview of the trek.

How Long is the Tour du Mont Blanc?

The short answer: it depends!  The Tour du Mont Blanc has many variations and route options as it makes its way around Mont Blanc.  These variations include options to tackle challenging mountain passes (see the  Fenetre d’Arpette ), visit crystal clear mountain lakes (such as  Lac Blanc ), or to simply avoid some of the more challenging sections of the hike. However, the classic TMB route is approximately 170-kilometers long. Taking alternate routes may lengthen or shorten your total distance, depending on the routes chosen.  Throughout the trek, you’ll have options to walk less or more depending on the weather, your preferences, and the conditions encountered on the trail.

How Difficult is the Tour du Mont Blanc?

If you are  reasonably fit and have some trekking experience , you should be well-suited to the physical challenges of the TMB. It is a tough trek that involves  long, steep ascents and descents on nearly every stage , but it isn’t too technically demanding. Remember, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a hike not a climb! Trekkers should be prepared for long days of hiking with plenty of elevation change, but frequent services along the route make it more approachable.  Weather can add to the challenge , and hikers should be prepared to encounter rain and even snow at any time.

Many of the  stages of the TMB  are structured such that you’ll begin your hike from the valley floor, trek up and over a mountain pass, and then descend into the next valley to finish the day. This provides a nice rhythm to the Tour du Mont Blanc but can also make for some difficult days. Make sure you have healthy knees, as the downhill sections can take their toll! All that being said we truly believe that most  walkers who  invest a bit of time in training and preparation  can complete the Tour du Mont Blanc with no problems and have a great time doing it!  Our best advice is to be sure you are in good physical condition and also make sound decisions when you encounter bad weather or snow.

Get The FREE TMB Essentials Handbook

Our free PDF guide covers all the basics – when to hike, accommodation, typical costs, and more!

Your TMB Essentials Booklet will be emailed to you shortly. 

Planning Your Perfect Tour du Mont Blanc

Now that you have a bit of background on the TMB let’s get to the heart of this guide: helping you plan your perfect Tour du Mont Blanc! First, we’ll start with some basics such as  which direction  you should hike in and  what time of year  will be best for you to tackle the TMB. Then we’ll dive into some more in-depth considerations such as  designing your perfect itinerary  and selecting your  accommodation . Let’s get started!

Which Direction Should I Hike the TMB?

The TMB is traditionally hiked in an anti-clockwise direction beginning in the French town of Les Houches, adjacent to Chamonix. It is also possible to walk the route in a clockwise direction, and trekkers headed this way typically start in the Swiss town of Champex-Lac . Below we’ve outlined some pros and cons of hiking in each direction.  

Anti-Clockwise (starting in Les Houches, France)

• Follows the classic route, good if you’re a sucker for tradition.
• Begins near Chamonix, which is easier to get to from the Geneva Airport than Champex.
• Rewards hikers with jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc on the final stage.
• More people hike in this direction, so the trail could feel more crowded throughout the day.

Clockwise (starting in Champex, Switzerland)

• Fewer hikers walking in the same direction as you.
• The first few stages are a bit mellower, allowing you to get acclimated before tackling the tougher sections.
• You’ll meet different people at each stop along the way.
• You’ll pass a large wave of people walking in the opposite direction each day, which can get tight on narrow trails.
• Champex (your starting point) has fewer amenities and is less conveniently connected by public transport than Les Houches. If you want to start in Les Houches and hike clockwise, be warned that the first day involves a very challenging climb, which can be a tough way to begin your trek.

All things considered, you will be sure to have a great time on the TMB regardless of which direction you choose to hike in. Think through your options and make the best decision for yourself!

When Should I Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and  accommodation  (with the exception of camping) must be booked in advance. There’s a chance you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we still wouldn’t recommend it.

June : Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail. Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny days, and less crowded trails. Keep in mind that most mountain refuges don’t open until late June.

July : Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of significant snow will diminish as the month wears on. Expect beautiful warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike.

August : Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free paths and warm, sunny weather. The end of August brings the  Ultra Tour du Mont Blanc trail race . Although the atmosphere during the race week is incredible, we recommend you try to avoid hiking during the UTMB to avoid crowds and logistical challenges.

September : Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. This is a beautiful time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accommodation providers may be closed for the season.

The bottom line : The best (and safest) time to hike the TMB is from late-June through early September. You’ll need to make advance bookings if you plan to hike during this time frame.

Designing Your TMB Itinerary

Now that you have a sense of which direction you’ll plan to hike in as well as which month you’ll embark of your trip it’s time to start thinking about your specific itinerary! As we’ve mentioned, the Tour du Mont Blanc in traditionally hiked over the course of 11 days, which will be a great pace for many hikers. However, there are certainly those who will want to tackle the trail in fewer days or savor their time in the Alps and extend their hike over the course of two weeks or more! 

Whatever you choose be sure to consider your personal abilities, how much time you’ll have, and what you want your typical days on the TMB to look like. Given the amount of  accommodation options  on the TMB your itinerary possibilities are nearly endless! Checkout our general guidelines below as well as our  stage-by-stage itinerary  for the traditional 11-day Tour du Mont Blanc circuit to get some ideas of your own. Here are our general guidelines for thinking about how many days you’ll need to complete the TMB:

• 8-10 days : Fast pace (8 – 10 hours of hiking each day)
• 10-11 days : Average pace (without a rest day) (6-8 hours of hiking each day)
• 11-12 days : Average pace (with a rest day) (6 – 8 hours of hiking each day)
• 12-14 days : Leisurely pace (6 – 7 hours of hiking each day)

Shortcuts, Detours, and Rest Days on the TMB

One of the great things about trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc is the ability to alter your route based on the conditions encountered. Bad weather, injuries, fatigue, burnout, limited time; there are countless reasons why you may need to use alternative means of transportation to get from one point of the TMB to another. Fortunately, the trail rarely strays too far from civilization, meaning you have tons of options along the way for when you need them. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common detours and shortcuts used on the TMB, as well as a few great resources for problem-solving your unique situation.

Bellvue Cable Car:  This option allows you to eliminate the lion’s share of the climb out of Les Houches on the traditional (anti-clockwise)  first stage of the trek . Once you get to the top, follow the signs a short way to rejoin the main trail.

La Maison Vielle Cable Car (and chairlift):  If you’d like to avoid the knee-wrenching descent into Courmayeur ( Stage 4 ), you can take a chairlift from La Maison Vieille down to Plan Chécrouit, where there’s a cable car that terminates in the town of Dolonne, across the river from Courmayeur. You can take a bus from Dolonne to Courmayeur if needed, otherwise it’s just a short walk.

La Flégère Cable Car:  This gondola departs directly next to Refuge la Flégère and ends in the village of Les Praz. From there, it’s possible to take a bus or taxi back to Chamonix. This is a good option if you need to  cut out the final day of the TMB , or if you want to hike in reverse and avoid the long, long climb out of Les Houches. You could also take the cable car down into Les Praz for more accommodation and services at this stage, and then take it back up the next morning to continue your trek.

La Chapelle to Notre Dame de la Gorge Navette : This free shuttle bus, or “navette,” runs from La Chapelle (a short walk from the trail on the outskirts of Les Contamines) to  Notre Dame de la Gorge  (at the beginning of  Stage 2 ). This means you can pick it up at the end of  Stage 1  to cut out the last hour or so of walking before reaching Les Contamines, and you can also take it from Les Contamines to Notre Dame de la Gorge on the next day to get a bit of a head start (30-60 minutes, depending on where you stay in Les Contamines).

Les Chapieux to Refuge des Mottets Navette : This shuttle allows you to avoid about 2 hours of road walking at the beginning of  Stage 3 . It only costs a few euros to ride, and you can pick it up at the tourist information office in Les Chapieux. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance (do so the previous day, at the tourist office), as the shuttle fills up quickly in the mornings!

Arriva Bus-In and around Courmayeur:  This is the bus network you’ll use if you need to take any alternative transportation in Val Ferret or Val Veny (the two valleys in the surrounding area). You can take a bus from La Visaille to Courmayeur to cut out the final hour of walking on  Stage 4 . This bus can also be used to reach  campgrounds  that are not located directly on the TMB route. Additionally, you can use the Savda bus to get to either La Fouly or Champex (although you will need to transfer in Orsières and take a Post Bus the remainder of the journey).

TMR/SBB Bus La Fouly to Champex:  You can get from La Fouly to Champex (effectively cutting out all of Stage 7) by bus. You’ll need to take line 272 from La Fouly to Orsières, where you’ll transfer to the 271 that will take you to Champex. Service is relatively frequent and easy to navigate.

SBB Train from Champex to Trient:  It’s relatively easy and straightforward to take the Swiss SBB train from Champex to Trient, effectively cutting out all of Stage 8. You need to utilize the local bus in Champex and may need to transfer a few times on the way, but Swiss trains really do live up to their reputation for being timely and efficient. 

Keep in mind that there are many more transportation options along the TMB!  We’ve simply listed a few of the most common and straightforward ones. If you need to find a specific detour, we recommend using  Rome2Rio  or  Google Maps  as a starting point. PostBus and SBB also have excellent apps that can be used to plan trips and buy tickets. 

NOTE: Many of the buses and cable cars only run during the peak months of the hiking season (July and August). Make sure that you check the websites and timetables before planning to use any of the options listed above.

Stage-by-Stage Itinerary for the Tour du Mont Blanc

We recommend most hikers take between 10-12 days to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, depending on their hiking ability, pace preferences, and weather conditions.  The classic itinerary described below takes 11 days to complete and will be the best option for the majority of hikers.  We’ve given you a brief overview of each of the classic eleven stages, as hiked in the anti-clockwise direction. While your specific itinerary may look different, it’s still helpful to look over these stage descriptions to get an idea of what you can expect on the trail.

Be sure to check out our interactive map and elevation profile to get a comprehensive understanding of all of your options!

Stage 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

• Distance & Elevation:  17 km // +1,112 m, -902 m
• Estimated hiking time:  5 – 6 hours
• Where to stay:   Chalet-Hôtel La Chemenaz

Description:  This stage is a perfect introduction to the TMB. It’s not too technical or demanding, yet it still gives walkers a decent challenge. You’ll start by climbing fairly steeply up out of Les Houches and past a ski area before topping out at  Col de Voza . From the Col, you’ll descend along dirt then paved roads while enjoying incredible views of the surrounding glaciers and aiguilles. Continue along the road through some very quaint hamlets, before veering off onto a trail (pay attention-this is easy to miss). You’ll end this stage by walking along a mellow riverside path all the way to Les Contamines.

Stage 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

• Distance & Elevation:  19 km // +1,440 m, -1,024 m
• Estimated hiking time:  7 – 8 hours
• Where to stay:   Auberge de la Nova

Description:  Start this stage by passing by the  Baroque chapel of Notre Dame de la Gorge . From there, you’ll follow an old Roman road steadily uphill before getting a break when the trail levels out and passes through open meadowland. After that, prepare for another steep climb, much of it on stony steps and scree, up first to the saddle of Col du Bonhomme, and then even higher to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. Here you’ll find the  Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme , which makes a great spot to enjoy a break and small meal. Early in the season, it’s common to encounter snow on this section.

Upon reaching the summit of Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, begin your descent towards Les Chapieux. The trail on the way down begins as a steep footpath, eases to join a jeep road for a bit, and then finishes with steep zigzags through a pasture above Les Chapieux.

Stage 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

• Distance & Elevation:  14 km // +1,079 m, -480 m
• Where to stay:   Rifugio Elisabetta

Description:  Choose to begin this stage with either a couple of miles of road walking, or by short-cutting it on a bus to  Refuge des Mottets . From the refuge, you’ll begin a relatively short and easy climb to the Col de la Seigne. Reaching the Col is special for a few reasons. First it marks the first of three international borders that you’ll cross on your trek. Standing at the top of the Col, you can look back towards France while also gazing ahead into Italy. Additionally, the wide-open views here are downright marvelous. From Col de la Seigne, enjoy a mellow descent to Rifugio Elisabetta.

Stage 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

• Distance & Elevation:  16 km // +603 m, -1,536 m
• Where to stay:   Maison La Saxe

Description:  As indicated by the elevation statistics, this stage is dominated by a very long and steep descent into Courmayeur. Before beginning that section, however, you’ll cross through the expansive Vallon de la Lee Blanche, where Lac Combal reflects the magnificent surrounding peaks. From there, you’ll climb for awhile on an undulating path to reach Col Chécrouit, where the path begins its long downhill trajectory.

After passing a few ski areas (options to take the cable car down may be available), you’ll complete numerous switchbacks through the woods until you reach the quaint town of Dolonne. Walk through the town of Dolonne and cross the river to enter Courmayeur. Enjoy a wide arrange of excellent food and luxurious accommodation in Courmayeur. This is also a great place to take a rest day.

Stage 5: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

• Distance & Elevation:  12 km // +1,225 m, -415 m
• Estimated hiking time:  5 hours
• Where to stay:   Rifugio Bonatti

Description:  The views along this stage are some of the most spectacular of the entire walk, but you have to earn them with a very steep climb at the outset. You’ll enjoy the satisfaction of watching Courmayeur grow ever smaller down below you as you zigzag your way up the hillside to Rifugio Bertone.

From the Rifugio, you’ll enjoy an undulating, mellow walk with unparalleled views of Col de la Seigne, Aiguille Noire, Mont Blanc and the Grandes Jorasses. It’s an incredible experience to look back and see Col de la Seigne far in the distance, knowing you’ve traversed such an expanse in just a few days with your own two feet. The beautiful views continue to abound all the way until you reach Rifugio Bonatti, an atmospheric and memorable place to spend the night.

Stage 6: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

• Distance & Elevation:  19 km // +1,032 m, -1,456 m
• Estimated hiking time:  6 – 7 hours
• Where to stay:   Hotel Edelweiss

Description:  This stage rewards hikers with another border crossing and more tremendous views. The walk begins with a relatively flat path that crosses a lovely hillside. Eventually, you’ll descend into Val Ferret (the Ferret Valley) before beginning a steep climb past Rifugio Elena and up further until you finally reach the Grand Col Ferret. At the top of the pass, you’ll enjoy your first views of Switzerland as well as phenomenal views of majestic peaks in every direction. It’s all downhill from there, much of which is pretty manageable, save for a few steep sections. There’s a rather uninspiring stretch of road walking at the very end of the day, but the charming town of  La Fouly  makes it all worth it.

Stage 7: La Fouly to Champex

• Distance & Elevation:  15 km // +729 m, -860 m
• Estimated hiking time:  4 – 5 hours
• Where to stay:  Au Vieux Champex

Description:  All of the guidebooks will tell you that this is the easiest day of the TMB (which is technically true), but don’t expect this stage to be completely effortless. Sometimes the “easiest” days can end up feeling really tough if we go into them with too cavalier a mindset. The first two thirds of this stage are quite mellow indeed; you’ll wind your way gently downhill through a quintessential Swiss valley filled with small farms and picturesque hamlets.

A substantial climb to Champex waits for you at the end of the stage, however. Even though it really is much less strenuous than the ascents of previous stages, it can be a shock to the body at the end of the day. Fortunately, the trail stays in the shade of the trees for much of the way up, and you’ll also get to experience the many wooden sculptures that are interspersed throughout the woods.

Stage 8: Champex to Col de la Forclaz

• Distance & Elevation:  14 km // +1,125 m, -1,066 m
• Where to stay:   Hotel de la Forclaz

Description:  On stage 8, the main TMB route follows an undulating path up to the Alp Bovine and then descends to Col de la Forclaz, but there are quite a few options to consider here. The Fenêtre d’Arpette route is a popular variant for those seeking challenge and adventure. With either route, you’ll also have a few options to choose from when it comes to your stopping point. For a shorter day, you can stop at  Hotel de la Forclaz  or you can continue on further to either Le Puety or Trient. There isn’t a clear “best” choice for what to do on stage 8, but it is important to think about what is best for you in terms of challenge, distance, and accommodation.

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

• Distance & Elevation:  14 km // +1,112 m, -1,229 m
• Where to stay:   Auberge la Boerne

Description:  This stage isn’t without physical demands, gaining and losing quite a bit of elevation in a relatively short distance. While most of the climb maintains a grade that isn’t crazy steep, the descent is another story. Even if you don’t love the arduous nature of stage 9, you’ll almost certainly be smitten by the scenery. Not only does summiting Col de Balme mean you’ll celebrate your third and final border crossing (back into France), but you’ll also get incredible views of Mont Blanc, back in sight for the first time in several days. Seeing Mont Blanc again and being back on French soil will likely remind you that your trek is nearing its end. Make sure to savor the final two stages of this incredible experience!

Stage 10: Tré-le-Champ to La Flégère

• Distance & Elevation:  7 km // +892 m, -446 m
• Estimated hiking time:  4 hours
• Where to stay:   Refuge de la Flégère

Description:  Allow yourself to sleep in on this stage, as you’ll have just a short walk ahead of you. Better yet, get to Refuge la Flégère early and enjoy a walk to the nearby Lac Blanc and a meal or beverage at the refuge. The final two days of the TMB follow the Grand Balcon Sud, a balcony trail with unrivaled views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks. To reach the high point, you’ll need to climb a series of ladders, catwalks, and platforms that go on for longer than you might expect. If you have a fear of heights, we recommend taking the Col des Montets variant. This route takes about the same amount of time and still has great views. Upon reaching Refuge la Flégère, join in the festive revelry of your fellow hikers marking their final night on the trail.

Stage 11: La Flégère to Les Houches

• Distance & Elevation:  17 km // +969 m, -1,821 m
• Where to stay:   Hotel Le Morgane  (Chamonix)

Description:  The final stage of the TMB is a big one in every way. Even though it’s dominated by downhill walking, the physical demands shouldn’t be overlooked. Start the walk on a very mellow uphill grade, before beginning a steeper climb past a ski area until reaching Col du Brevent. Take in the scenery (and catch your breath) here, but keep in mind that the best is yet to come. Climb further on more rugged terrain until you reach the almost-summit of Le Brevent (you can take a 5-minute detour to get to the actual top if you’d like).

From Le Brevent you’ll have an unobstructed and totally breathtaking vantage point from which to take in the entire Mont Blanc range. Take time to study every intricate glacier and craggy spire before finally tearing yourself away to make your way down towards Les Houches. Fortunately, you’ll continue to enjoy the scenery for awhile as you descend on a very long and very steep path. As you near Les Houches, the trail enters the woods where it passes a zoo and the large Christ Roi statue. Finally, the path ends at a road and perhaps the least scenic part of Les Houches. Keep walking to reach the more charming part of town, then stop and toast to your remarkable accomplishment!

There are accommodation options along the TMB to suit every budget and travel style. While not all of these options are available at every stage of the route, you can certainly customize your itinerary to fit your needs. It’s nearly inevitable that you’ll need to stay in a mountain refuge on at least one stage of your trek. Be prepared for basic, communal facilities, but don’t fear! These special places often yield the most memorable stays of the entire trip.  We’ve provided a brief explanation of each of the options below:

Hotels on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Typically small and independently owned, the hotels along the TMB serve up a dose of luxury to the weary hiker. Unless otherwise noted by the hotel, expect all of the usual amenities (hot shower, private bathroom, breakfast offered, linens and towels provided, etc). Hotels typically cost upwards of €65 per person. For an additional fee, many hotels offer half-pension (AKA half-board or demi-pension ) which includes dinner and breakfast. A few hotels along the route have dortoirs in addition to private rooms. Dortoirs are dormitories that offer a good budget option. 

Read More: TMB Accommodation and Refuge Guide

Refuges on the Tour du Mont Blanc

We consider a stay in a mountain hut to be a highlight of any TMB trek. Set in stunning and remote locations, the ambiance at the refuges (or rifugios in Italian) can’t be beat. Half-pension gets you a bed in a dorm (linens not provided), a delicious communal dinner, and a basic breakfast. Some refuges also offer private rooms (with shared bathrooms). Expect to pay around €55 per person for half-board in a dorm.

Gites d’Etape and Auberges

These are simple guest houses offering basic, dorm-style accommodation. Half-pension (dinner and breakfast) is typically included in the price. There are shared bathroom facilities with hot showers. Bed linens are usually provided. These are a good option for those who want to stick to a smaller budget, but don’t want to carry camping gear. Expect to pay around €50 per person for half-pension.

Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Although they are the cheapest accommodation option along the TMB, the campgrounds on the route are quite luxurious. All provide sinks and toilets, and many offer hot showers and even WiFi! Expect to pay around €15 per person to camp. Note: you cannot camp on every stage of the TMB.  Be sure to check out our Complete Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc for a full camping itinerary.

Do I Need to Book my Accommodation in Advance?

This is a question that creates stress and anxiety for many hikers as they are planning for their TMB adventure. The short answer is that you should try to book your accommodation as early as possible, but the longer answer is a bit more nuanced. We’ve broken it down for you here, so you can plan with more confidence and less worry.

• Mountain refuges  are the most important to book ahead of time. Many of these huts are quite small, so they fill up quickly. Many refuges accept reservations year-round, typically allowing you to book up to 12 months in advance. Some, however, do not respond to reservation requests during the winter months (September-March, typically). You should still try to email or call the refuge to reserve your spot as soon as you know your itinerary, even if it’s prior to March.
• Gites, auberges, and guesthouses  should be your next priority when it comes to advance bookings. This is especially true in the smaller villages where accommodation options are limited, and/or if you have specific preferences for your lodging (ex; private room, linens provided, etc). As soon as you’ve made your travel plans, reach out to the gite/guesthouse (or book online). For peak summer months, it’s optimal to have these bookings made by the end of March.
• For larger hotels,  you have a bit more wiggle room when it comes to making reservations. You should definitely still try to do it as early as possible, but they have more rooms and are often located in places with greater availability of lodging options.
•   You do not need to make advance reservations for any of the campgrounds on the TMB.  In fact, we recommend that you don’t. This will allow you to maximize the freedom and flexibility that camping provides, and it will make it much less complicated to check in at the campgrounds.

Booking your Accommodation for the Tour du Mont Blanc

When it comes to booking your TMB accommodation, there’s good news and bad news. Let’s get the bad news out of the way first.  There’s no single, streamlined booking platform for all of the refuges and/or accommodation providers along the route.  In fact, the way you book will vary greatly from place to place. The good news is that most (but not all) can be booked using the Autour du Mont Blanc platform . Many refuges, hotels, and gites also have their own websites with easy online booking platforms. Some require that you send an email or complete a contact form on their website.

The TMB is relatively easy to get to given its close proximity to Geneva, Switzerland. Flight connections from the rest of Europe, the US, and other international destinations are frequent. Travel by train to Geneva is also straightforward, if not a bit more time consuming than air travel. We recommend booking you flights as soon as you are able, as fares during the peak summer season can be quite high.

Getting to Chamonix/Les Houches from Geneva

The vast majority of walkers will get to the start of the Tour du Mont Blanc by first flying into the Geneva Airport (GVA). There are frequent flights to Geneva from the rest of Europe as well as a good number of flights from the U.S. Once you’ve landed in Geneva, you’ll have several options for getting to Chamonix/Les Houches:

• FlixBus   – This is one of the least expensive and highest rated options. The service departs directly from the Geneva Airport and will take you to the Chamonix Sud bus station, in the heart of Chamonix. Expect the journey to take about two hours.
• AlpyBus  – AlpyBus runs a door to door transfer service from the Geneva Airport to hotels in the Chamonix Valley. It is more costly than FlixBus, but also more convenient since they’ll drop you directly at your hotel or campground.
• Mountain Drop-offs  – Similar to AlpyBus, Mountain Drop-offs runs a door-to-door transfer service for walkers arriving in Geneva. Very highly rated.

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

Getting to Champex from Geneva (for clockwise TMB hikers)

If you plan on walking the Tour du Mont Blanc in the clockwise direction, you may be choose to start your hike in the Swiss town of Champex. You’ll likely begin your travel by first flying into the Geneva Airport (GVA).  Once you’ve landed in Geneva, you’ll need to connect via train and local bus to reach Champex. Unlike Chamonix, you have few options other than public transportation to reach Champex. However, Swiss trains are renowned for being on time and generally pleasant. Here are the instructions for reaching Champex from the Geneva Airport:

• Step One – Train to Martigny : Upon exiting the airport in Geneva you’ll need to catch a train to the Swiss town of Martigny. Most of these trains will be signed in the direction of Brig, so be sure to inquire that the train you are boarding stops in Martigny. The journey should take around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• Step Two – Train to Sembrancher : From Martigny you’ll take a 15-minute train ride to the town of Sembrancher.
• Step Three – Train to Orsières : From Sembrancher, you’ll catch another train to the town of Orsieres. This is a short, 10-minute ride from Sembrancher.
• Step Four – Local bus to Champex : Unfortunately, Champex is not on a train line so you’ll have to complete the final leg of your journey via the local bus. From outside the Orsieres train station, you’ll need to catch bus #271 to Champex. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and will drop you conveniently in the center of Champex.

The Swiss train provider,  SBB , has an excellent website to help you plan your journey. We also recommend downloading the SBB app to your phone, which is very helpful for viewing timetables while traveling.  Rome2Rio  is also an excellent resource for mapping out your specific trip. 

Luggage Storage and Transfer on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Many walkers will be traveling with more luggage than they might want to carry for the entire TMB. Storing extra luggage or having it transferred to your next stop is a great way to avoid carrying excess weight on your trek, while still allowing you to have everything you need for the remainder of your trip. This is especially true if you plan on traveling elsewhere on your holiday.

Luggage Storage on the TMB

Unfortunately, there are no luggage storage facilities at the train station in Chamonix. Walkers can store their extra luggage at the  Gite le Chamoniard , which charges €4-6 per day, depending on the size of the bag. Other hotels and accommodation may store your baggage if you have a reservation before and after you walk, but you’ll want to confirm this ahead of time.

Luggage Transfer on the TMB

If you’re concerned about the difficulty of the TMB and have room in your budget, using a luggage transfer service can be an excellent way to reduce your effort on the trail and make your trek more enjoyable. Both of the companies we’ve recommended below come highly rated and allow you to customize services to your itinerary and preferences. Each morning of your trek, you’ll simply leave your bag in the designated storage location to be picked up by 8:00am. Your luggage carrier will deliver your bags to the next stop on your itinerary by 6:00pm each evening. Keep in mind that they will not be able to deliver your luggage to any of the mountain refuges that are inaccessible by road (including Rifugio Bonatti and Rifugio Elisabetta). Additionally, they will not drop your luggage at private residences or AirBnB’s.

• Besson Taxi Mont Blanc : This carrier typically charges between €150-€300 per bag for transfers, depending on how many days you use their services and how many people are in your group. They charge per bag and have a strict policy that bags may not exceed 15kg. This company also can provide shuttle services between stops on the TMB, if needed.
• Chamonix Valley Transfers : This company offers a variety of customizable luggage shuttles that range in price from €400-€800 for up to eight bags. The price increases with the number of stops added to your itinerary. They get good reviews for their reliability and friendly service.

Tour du Mont Blanc Weather

Mountain weather is always volatile, and what you’ll experience on the Tour du Mont Blanc is no different. Conditions can change very rapidly in the Alps, meaning that you can find yourself in the middle of a whiteout blizzard or on an exposed ridge during a thunderstorm without much warning. However, for the most part the weather during the hiking season is ridiculously lovely. Expect warm, sunny days, cool evenings, and not too much rain. You should also need to be prepared for very hot temperatures, very cold temperatures, rain, and storms (and you could even see all of these in the same day!)

Getting caught high up in the mountains during a storm or without the right gear is extremely dangerous, but you can greatly minimize your risk by taking a few important precautions:

• Meteoblue  is arguably the best resource for predicting the weather.  It allows you to see the forecast for specific peaks or coordinates, plus it has excellent radar displays and wind predictions. Check it every time you have cell service.  Chamonix-meteo  also gives detailed and accurate forecasts for the Mont Blanc region.
• If you’re ever unsure about whether you should hike in the current conditions, it can be helpful to  ask the warden at the nearest mountain refuge.  When in doubt, it’s usually better to air on the side of caution and give the mountains the respect they deserve. You can almost always find a detour or shortcut to get back on track the following day.
• Start hiking early in the day!  This will allow you to avoid hiking in the heat of the day and greatly reduce your risk of getting caught in afternoon thunderstorms.

Food & Drink on the TMB

One of the many wonderful things about the Tour du Mont Blanc is that you don’t need to worry about carrying (and eating) eleven days’ worth of underwhelming freeze-dried backpacker meals.  Due to the fact that the trail passes through many towns and villages, you will be able to resupply every few days.   For budget travelers,  it is possible to self-cater and keep your food and drink costs quite reasonable.  You’ll need to bring your own camp stove and cooking equipment if you plan on fixing most of your own meals along the TMB. You can purchase baguettes, good local cheese and charcuterie, fresh fruit, and delicious pastries for very reasonable prices.

Most of the shops along the route have convenient foods like instant noodles and canned soups, as well as dried fruits, nuts, energy bars, and other snacks so you should have no problem putting together quick and delicious meals and snacks along the route. Some hikers choose to use some backpacker meals and supplement with foods they purchase along the way.

Additionally (for those with slightly deeper pockets),  nearly all of the hotels, gites, and refuges offer the option of purchasing meals.  You can just show up for lunch or a snack, but  you’ll need to order ahead of time for dinner.  Most refuges and many hotels and gites offer the option of half-board ( demi pension ), which includes dinner and breakfast.

Dinners at the mountain refuges are typically indulgent, multi-course affairs. Expect a soup or salad as a starter, a hearty pasta dish as the main, and either a cheese course or dessert to finish. Breakfast is much simpler, typically consisting of a selection of breads, cold cereals, juice, and coffee or tea.

Whichever way you approach your food and drink strategy, we think you’ll find that trekking in the Alps is every bit as much a culinary delight as a natural one!

Dietary Restrictions

The restaurants and accommodation providers along the TMB are generally quite willing to provide a vegetarian option.  Those who are vegan, gluten-free, or have a specialized diet will have a harder time finding suitable meals.  While certain places will be able to accommodate your needs, that will be the exception and not the norm. Make sure to inform all of your lodging providers of your dietary needs in advance, as they will be much more likely to accommodate you. That being said, we’d recommend bringing along plenty of your own food as a back up.

All of the hotels, gites, and campgrounds provide potable water ( eau potable ). You will pass through many villages with public drinking fountains, but make sure to plan ahead and carry 1-2 liters of water each day. Due to the presence of agricultural activity near large swaths of the trail, we do not recommend drinking any water from natural streams without filtering it first.

If you need to purchase fuel for a camp stove, your best bet is to get this in Chamonix or Les Houches. Both towns have outdoor retailers that sell a few different kinds of fuel, and will be able to accommodate most standard stove types. It is unlikely that you’ll be able to find it at most of the stops you’ll pass through along the TMB, so plan on getting enough fuel to last your entire trek.

Maps & Guidebooks for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Carrying a good map is essential on the Tour du Mont Blanc.  While the trail is generally well-marked and easy to follow, there are countless trail junctions, detours, and confusing sections that require some form of navigation.

When we hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc we did not rely on traditional, paper maps that are available for the route. Instead,  we preferred utilizing GPS maps on our phones to ensure we knew where the trail was as well as where we were in relation to it . Cell phone service is very limited along the TMB, so  it is critical to have a good offline mapping app such as  Gaia GPS  to ensure you’ll be able to view the map at any point along the route.

You can learn more about how to navigate on the Tour du Mont Blanc here. 

With all this considered,  we still recommend carrying a paper map.  While technology has done a tremendous amount to make navigating while hiking easier, there is simply no replacement for carrying a physical map with you. We recommend bringing the  IGN 3630 OT Chamonix  and  IGN 3531 ET St-Gervais  with you, as they provide a detailed view of the TMB route. A weatherproof carrying case  like this one  wouldn’t hurt to have either.

Find everything you need to know about Tour du Mont Blanc maps here.

As for guidebooks, you’ll have two excellent options to choose from. The first, and the one we recommend, is Kev Reynolds excellent  Tour of Mont Blanc: Complete two-way trekking guide  published by the renowned guidebook company, Cicerone. Another good option is the  Trailblazer Guides Tour du Mont Blanc guidebook . Trail Blazer guides are known for their excellent maps and exhaustive list of accommodation options. 

Budgeting & Money on the Tour du Mont Blanc

At first glance, the Tour du Mont Blanc might seem physically daunting, but many might find it even more financially intimidating.  The beautiful thing about the TMB, however, is that it’s pretty much up to you how expensive you want to make it.  There are hikers who choose to spend more to take guided tours, stay in private rooms at upscale hotels and huts, and buy all of their meals at restaurants along the way. Others take a more frugal approach, camping as much as possible, cooking their own meals, and minimizing expenses wherever they can.

Regardless of your budget and travel style, it’s important to get an idea of what to expect in terms of expenses so you can plan accordingly and avoid any stressful situations when it comes to money.  Additionally, you might find that an experience like the TMB is more within reach than you originally thought, if you just make a few intentional decisions when planning your travel.

In this section, we’ve broken down the typical costs for things like transportation, accommodation, and food. Obviously, prices will vary from place to place, but this should give you a good starting point.

• Average Hut Price: €65 (per person)
• Average Campsite Price: €15 (per person)
• Hotel in Chamonix for before and after the hike: €140 (per night)
• Hotel in Courmayeur for rest day: €150 (per night)
• Bus from Geneva to Chamonix: €50 (round trip)
• Bus from Chamonix to Les Houches: €3 (each way)
• Shuttle Bus from Les Chapieux to Refuge Des Mottets: €3
• Average one-way cable car ticket: €25
• Bottle of Wine: €10
• Baguette: €2
• Breakfast/Lunch Mountain Hut: €15
• Dinner at Mountain Hut: €25
• Coffee/Tea: €3
• Sandwich: €10
• Stove Fuel: €7
• Laundry: €4 for wash and dry

Find more detail on how to budget for the Tour du Mont Blanc here. 

Cash or Credit?

While an increasing number of accommodation providers, shops, and other services are beginning to accept credit cards,  cash is still the primary payment method used along the TMB . It is important to carry enough cash to cover all of your expenses for several days, as   ATMs are infrequent along the trail . Below we’ve provided a list of stops along the TMB that have ATMs:

• Les Houches
• Les Contamines
• Argentiere*

*These stops require a short detour from the main TMB route.

Currency on the TMB

The TMB crosses the borders of three different countries, meaning that  you’ll need to switch from using Euros in France to Swiss Francs in Switzerland then back to Euros upon entering Italy . While most places in Switzerland will accept Euros, you’ll be better off using Francs if you can.

What to Pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Making smart choices about what to pack (and what to leave behind) is a vital part of setting yourself up for a successful and enjoyable Tour du Mont Blanc experience.  It’s simple- the heavier your pack, the harder your effort . However, with a little thoughtful planning, you can keep your pack weight manageable while still ensuring you have everything you need to be comfortable on the trail and while relaxing at the refuges, campgrounds, and villages along the way.

Find our complete Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List here.  

Our best advice for packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc is to adopt the mantra  less is more . Here’s a few tips for ensuring you pack weight is manageable:

• You only need a couple of shirts. Same goes for underwear and socks. You’ll have plenty of time and sunshine to wash and dry laundry Second, clothes are heavy, so cutting out everything but the absolute essentials will make a huge difference.
• Plan out when/where you’ll restock food provisions and don’t carry more food than you need. This is especially true for those camping along the route.
• Consider leaving your bulky camera equipment at home. Unless photography is your passion, most smartphones take great photos and save a ton of space and weight.

  A few of our essential items for the Tour du Mont Blanc are outlined below:

• Trekking poles : You (and your knees) will be so glad to have them on steep sections, and this is especially true for campers who are carrying heavier loads
• A good backpack:  Backpacks need to be broken in through use, and your body needs to get used to the feeling of wearing it for extended periods of time. In terms of size, most campers will need between 45 and 65 liters. Those staying in refuges will find that 30-40L is perfect
• Down jacket:  We’ve found this to be a perfect piece of gear for the Tour du Mont Blanc. It can be quite chilly in the Alps in the early morning and evenings, but a heavy fleece or bulky jacket can really sabotage a lightweight pack.
• Ear plugs:  A must for sleeping in mountain refuges!
• Good base  layers:  A good base layer is an essential part of any complete TMB gear list. We always bring a high-quality merino wool base layer and recommend all TMB hikers do the same.
• How to Train for the Tour du Mont Blanc

With just a bit of advance work and preparation, you can make sure you’re physically ready to have your best experience on the Tour du Mont Blanc. Because of its relatively low elevation and minimal technicality, the TMB is a pretty approachable long-distance trek for the casual hiker. That being said, it’s still a serious physical challenge that will push your body to new limits. You will enjoy your trip infinitely more if you train ahead of time. Here is a rough outline of a training plan to get you in shape for the TMB:

• Six Months Before Your Trip: Build the Base  Obviously, everyone will approach the TMB with varying levels of fitness, past injuries, and overall health needs. You’ll know your individual situation best, but you should generally focus on building your aerobic endurance in the months leading up to your trip. Start to incorporate longer bouts of walking or running into your regular fitness routine.
• Three Months Before Your Trip: Go Uphill  Ideally, at this point in your training you should increase the frequency and intensity of your hiking. If possible, try to hit the trails once a week and select hikes that would take two hours or longer with at least 1,500 feet of elevation gain.
• Two Months Before Your Trip: Put on Your Pack  In the eight weeks or so before your trip, try get in as many longer hikes (or walks) with your gear as possible. Think of it as a “dress rehearsal” for your trek. The benefits of breaking in your gear at this point are twofold. First, you’ll be able to test your boots, backpack, socks, and so on to ensure that they fit well during longer hikes. Second, you’ll begin training your body to hike while wearing a heavy backpack.
• One Month Before Your Trip: Time for a Test Run  If at all possible, try to take a 1-2 night backpacking trip in your local woods. If you aren’t planning on camping along the TMB you don’t need to take an overnight trip, but you should still try to fit in two back-to-back days of long, hard hiking. This important step allows you to try out different ways of packing your backpack for maximum fit and comfort, practice setting up camp, and get your body used to hiking for consecutive days in a row.

Follow our outline above and you will be able to enjoy every moment of your incredible trip so much more. Plus, the time and effort you spend working towards your goal will make the real thing that much sweeter!

For more details on how to train for the Tour du Mont Blanc check out our comprehensive guide here. 

Let Us Make Your TMB Trip A Success

We have used our experience, research, and passion to create effective and trail-tested resources for all TMB hikers. If you plan to trek without the support of a tour company, our resources can help you with the logistics of preparing for the trip of a lifetime.

• Camping Guide (Our Best Seller): If camping is more your style, our dedicated camping guide is just for you. It includes detailed campground descriptions and camping-specific itineraries.
• GPS Digital Downloads (2nd Best Seller): Navigate the TMB with ease using our GPS files, updated yearly and compatible with most devices. The files cover the entire trek, including common alternate routes.
• Guide to the TMB:  Our comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about the TMB. It’s available on our online planning portal and as a downloadable eGuide. The guide includes accommodation recommendations, offline GPS & maps, and video fly-throughs of the trail.
• Custom Itineraries:  We’ll help you design a TMB itinerary that fits your specific needs, including your trip length, accommodation type, hiking ability, budget, and more.
• Custom GPS Files:  For a truly personalized experience, we can create a GPS file customized to your specific itinerary, including your accommodations and route preferences.

As passionate hikers, we’ve made it our goal to empower you with all the information you need for your best TMB experience. We’ve helped over 2,500 hikers prepare for their trips, navigate on the trail, and simplify the planning process.

What’s Next?

If you’ve made it through our post above, you’re well on your way to having an incredible experience on the Tour du Mont Blanc. However, you still have lots of preparation before you’re truly ready! Be sure to read our entire series on the TMB to learn everything you’ll need to know to prepare for your trip and don’t hesitate to comment with your questions below!

• Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List – Be sure you’ve got everything you need!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Logistics – Don’t forget the small details!
• How to Navigate on the TMB – Turn your smartphone into a GPS!
• How to find all of your campgrounds on the TMB – Know where you are and where you’re going!
• TMB Trip Report – Know what to expect!
• 10 Essentials for the Tour du Mont Blanc- The quick and dirty basics
• Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc – The essential resource!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Photo Galley – Find some inspiration!
• How to hike the TMB for (nearly) free – save BIG on your TMB costs!
• How Much It Cost Us to Hike the TMB
• Tour du Mont Blanc Map
• Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation and Refuge Guide

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Tour du Mont Blanc

West highland way, laugavegur trail, walker's haute route, coast to coast walk, national parks.

Let Us Help Plan Your TMB!

We’re here to help! We offer comprehensive TMB planning support so you can plan your perfect trip!

TOP 5 CAMPING FAVORITES FOR 2024

1. Rumpl Puffy Blanket - The coziest camp blanket out there.

2. Solo Stove - Elevate your campfire with this smoke-free fire pit.

3. Solar Power Bank Charger - Keep your gadgets charged with the power of the sun.

4. Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler - The ultimate camping cooler.

5. Gaia GPS - Download offline maps for easy navigation! Get 20% here .

Sending email...

Email sent!

You are using an out of date browser and this website will not function properly.

Please upgrade to Edge or Chrome browsers.

+33 (0)781586903

[email protected]

montblanctreks

• Dates & Prices

Trail Conditions Season 2024 See our News Page

The Tour du Mont Blanc

Guided & self guided trekking holidays.

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.

Our Trek Packages

Full Guided Trek

• 12 nights, 10 days trekking
• UIMLA guided trek
• 165k classic trek through France Italy & Switzerland
• Full circuit touring the ‘Mont Blanc Massif’
• Good quality accommodation
• Bag transfer included
• Rest day in Courmayeur
• Trekking in the shadow of Europe's highest mountain

Westerly Guided Trek

• 6 nights, 4 days trekking
• 65k westerly section
• Chamonix to Courmayeur
• 1 day to explore Courmayeur & Chamonix
• Breathtaking mountains views and pretty alpine villages
• Add in additional days

Easterly Guided Trek

• 7 nights, 6 days trekking
• 100k trek the easterly through Italy, Switzerland and France
• Courmayeur to Chamonix
• Spectacular alpine flora and fauna
• Stunning alpine scenery
• Add in additional days in Courmayeur or Chamonix if required

Full Circuit Self-Guided Trek

• 11 nights, 10 days trekking
• 165k full circuit starting & finishing in Chamonix
• Self-Guided Trek trek
• Hassle free independent trekking
• Flexible start date to suit you
• Maps, route cards, guide book & expert advice
• Option to select daily route using traditional Tour du Mont Blanc or variants
• Add additional days or tailor made to suit you

Best Of Self-Guided Trek

• 110k shortened 'Best of' Tour starting and finishing in Chamonix
• Maps, route cards, guide book and expert advice

Westerly Self-Guided Trek

• 65k from Classic trek from Chamonix to Courmayeur
• 1 free day to explore Courmayeur & Chamonix
• Add additional days or tailor made

Easterly Self-Guided Trek

• 100k classic trek from Courmayeur to Chamonix

Full Trek in Refuges Self-Guided Trek

• 12 nights, 11 days trekking
• 165k full circuit from Chamonix to Chamonix
• Dormitory accommodation in refuges & hotels

Best Of Refuges Self-Guided

• 7 nights, 6 day trekking
• 110k shortened 'Best of' Tour starting & finishing in Chamonix

Photo Galleries

Tour du mont blanc, tour du mont blanc accommodation, alpine flora and fauna, tmb 29 june 2024, tour du mont blanc trail conditions full report, looking back on summer 2023, sign up to our newsletter, marketing permissions.

Mont Blanc Treks will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing. Please let us know if you are happy to receive emails from us by checking the box below.

You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected]. We will treat your information with respect. For more information about our privacy practices please visit our website. By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

Tour du Mont Blanc in 4 days

The tour du mont blanc in 4 days.

In our opinion, this accessible hike is without doubt the most beautiful way to discover trekking. Experience the joys of a multi-day hike in the magnificent setting of the Mont Blanc mountain range!

With views of a range of superb landscapes, contemplate the most beautiful sights the Alps have to offer. The recipe for a simple life in the open air, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This trek allows a gentle discovery of the Tour du Mont Blanc with its forests, mountain pastures, villages and glaciers… Get away from it all on one of the most beautiful treks in the world.

Your consultant

The advantages of the TMB in 4 days

Departure from, date of departure, accomodation, the programme in detail, day 1: les houches – bionnassay.

Today, you will meet the group and your guide in front of the Bellevue cable car at 9 am. The day begins with a climb through the forest, until you reach the summit of Prarion (1969m), from which you can enjoy a first 360° panorama.

Descent to the Fioux refuge for the night.

Day 2: Bionnassay – Les Contamines

Day 3: Les Contamines – Les Chapieux

Day 4: Les Chapieux – Courmayeur

Useful information

Luggage transport.

Between 6 and 8 hours’ walking per day throughout the trek, with some more difficult sections, particularly at the start of the season when the snow is still present. You should be able to climb at least 1,000 m (3 200ft.)a day for several days in a row.

Directions and accommodation

Directions to the starting point : Meet at Bellevue cable car station at 9 am on Day 1.

You can leave your vehicle in the Prarion car park a few meters above. It is a free outdoor car park.

> Map to get to the starting point

Return to the starting point: Bus from Place Monte Bianco in Courmayeur to Chamonix, or taxi. Then bus, train or taxi from Chamonix. Return from Courmayeur not included in the price of the stay.

Bus timetables at the Chamonix tourist office ([email protected] +33(0)4 50 53 00 24) or Courmayeur ([email protected] 00 39 01 65 84 20 60).

Accommodation before and after the trek:

• Hotel Saint Antoine – 7 route Napoléon, 74310 Les Houches – 04 50 54 40 10
• Hotel du Bois – 475 Avenue des Alpages, 74310 Les Houches – 04 50 54 50 35
• Gîte Michel Fagot – 2 Allée des Sorbiers, 74310 Les Houches – 04 50 54 42 28

Even if you choose to do it in summer, it can get cold on the TMB! We strongly recommend that you pack clothes suitable for a multi-day hike, such as:

• A windproof and waterproof jacket
• Walking trousers.

The terrain is varied and we recommend you wear walking boots that protect your ankles.

The accommodations provide blankets and pillows, but you will need a silk sheet, for hygienic reasons.

For more information, voir notre our special TMB equipment page.

The Comfort cancellation contract covers you in the case of cancellation before your departure and/or a missed flight.

The Comfort multi-risk contract includes:

• Cancellation before departure and interruption of your trek
• Missed flight and flight delay
• Luggage and personal belongings option
• Worldwide repatriation and travel assistance
• Search and rescue costs up to €15,000
• Individual travel accident option
• Third-party liability abroad
• Impossible return and early return

The COVID contract includes:

• Cancellation due to illness 30 days before departure
• Cancellation due to denied boarding
• Remote consultation before departure
• Medical repatriation
• Hotel costs and medical fees
• Psychological support
• Grocery deliveries and home help

To book, you must:

• Click on one of the “book this trek” links and select the insurance, and date options.
• To pay by cheque : please make it out to WATSE and send to: WATSE – 63 avenue de la gare – 74170 Saint Gervais les Bains Le Fayet – France.
• To pay by bank transfer : contact us for our bank details.
• To pay by debit card : your invoice will be in your online account as soon as your payment has been confirmed by the bank. You will then be able to pay the balance directly from your account.
• Pay a 30% deposit or the balance for your trek
• Print out the booking form then fill it in, sign it and send it back to us by email or post. Your reservation will only be effective when 30% of the total cost is credited to WATSE’s bank account.
• The balance must be paid at least one month before departure without a reminder from us.

Dates and prices

Included in the price.

• Supervision by a qualified mountain guide
• Accommodation in dormitories, as described in the trek programme
• Half board, as described in the trek programme
• Packed lunches prepared by a chef
• Dried fruit and nut snacks prepared by a chef
• Luggage transfer every night
• Showers in the accommodations

Not included in the price

• Transport to and from the start of the trek
• Drinks other than water served with meals
• Any private transport or cable car tickets not included in the trek programme
• Assistance and cancellation insurance, to subscribe at the time of booking
• Anything not listed in “Included in the price”

You will also like:

Full tour du mont blanc in 10 days.

Embark on the full TMB and see the very best it has to offer.

Tour du Mont Blanc in 7 days

The iconic TMB through France, Switzerland and Italy, circling the highest summit in the Alps.

Tour du Mont Blanc in 7 days (comfort)

Walk the paths of the TMB enjoying every evening accommodation selected for their comfort.

Tour du Mont Blanc High-level route – 7 days

A wild and alpine itinerary over high mountains and across glaciers. Not for the faint-hearted!

Trail running the Tour du Mont Blanc – 5 days

For those who want to do the TMB (almost) as fast as Kilian Jornet!

Tour du Mont Blanc camping – 7 days

Experience nature at its most authentic as you camp your way round the best-known trek in the Alps.

From Chamonix to Courmayeur, get away from it all with this trek through varied landscapes offering breathtaking views.

Tour du Mont Blanc in 5 days

From Courmayeur to Chamonix, the northern part of the Tour du Mont Blanc will have no secrets for you!

Contact us!

I have read and accept the terms and conditions.

Blog o podróżach, jodze i wyprawach w góry

TMB – Tour du Mont Blanc – trasa, opis, campingi

Tour de Mont Blanc (TMB) to trekking wokół masywu Mont Blanc . Trasa wiedzie przez 3 kraje – Włochy, Francję i Szwajcarię, liczy około 170 kilometrów, a suma przewyższeń sięga 10 000m . Trekking można zacząć w każdym punkcie i zrobić go zgodnie lub przeciwnie do kierunku ruchu wskazówek zegara. Na TMB wybrałam się razem z Agatą, kompanką do górskich tripów. Postanowiłyśmy pójść tą bardziej klasyczną drogą, czyli przeciwnie do kierunku ruchów wskazówek zegara . Na trekking wybrałyśmy się na początku sierpnia 2020. U mnie był to ciąg dalszy podróży między wyjazdem w Dolomity a Camino de Santiago . Jednak jadąc w środek lata trzeba mieć na uwadze wysokie temperatury i palące słońce.

TMB zaczęłyśmy we Włoszech w Courmayeur. Do miasteczka łatwo się dostać, na przykład ze względu na połączenie Flixbusa z Turynem, Mediolanem i lotniskiem w Bergamo. Ten sam bus dociera też do Chamonix, skąd blisko już do Les Houches – najbardziej popularnego punktu startowego TMB.

Wszystkie wskazówki, całkowity koszt i listę rzeczy, które ze sobą zabrałam opisałam w tym poście TMB .

Wszystkie ceny poniżej dotyczą trekkingu w 2020 roku dla dwóch osób i jednego namiotu.

Przyjazd i nocleg w Courmayeur

Do Courmayeur przyjechałyśmy około godziny 18 Flixbusem z Bergamo . Za nami była już tygodniowa wyprawa w Dolomity. Także tego samego dnia doszłyśmy na camping Grandes Jorasses położony około 6 kilometrów od centrum Courmayeur. Na camping dojechać też można darmowym busem z centrum. Większość trasy przebiegła przez miasteczko i asfaltową drogę.

Trasa : Courmayeur –> camping Grandes Jorasses Dystans : 6,3km Przewyższenie : 393m Nocleg : Camping Grandes Jorasses Cena : 20 euro Sklep : dużo sklepów w Courmayeur

Więcej noclegów w Courmayeur tutaj.

Dzień 1: Camping Grandes Jorasses –> La Fouly

Już pierwszego dnia przekraczamy granicę ze Szwajcarią. Trasa rozpoczyna się 3-kilometrową drogą asfaltową, z której wkraczamy na podejście przez pastwiska krów. Trasa jest dosyć łagodna, ale nam dają się we znaki ciężkie plecaki (mój waży około 12-13 kilogramów). Tego dnia podchodzimy na przełęcz Grand Col Ferret (2537m npm). Jednak zejście jest już bardzo łagodne, końcówkę przechodzimy asfaltem. Im niżej jesteśmy tym więcej chmur pojawia się na niebie.

W miasteczku La Fouly znajduje się Camping des Glaciers , na którym nocujemy oraz położony przy głównej drodze sklep. Camping jest bardzo dobrze wyposażony. Posiada też świetlicę z czajnikiem, tv i komputerem, w której ukrywamy się przed deszczem.

Dzień 1 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Camping Grandes Jorasses –> przełęcz Grand Col Ferret –> La Fouly Dystans : 20km Przewyższenie : 946m Czas : 7h Nocleg : Camping des Glaciers Cena : 34 franki Sklep : dobrze wyposażony sklep 5 min od campingu

Więcej noclegów w La Fouly tutaj.

Dzień 2: La Fouly –> Champex

Drugiego dnia budzą nas zapowiedzi deszczu, dlatego nie spieszymy się zbytnio z wychodzeniem z campingu. Korzystamy z wygody świetlicy i camping opuszczamy dopiero przed godziną 10. Jest to jeden z najkrótszych i najłatwiejszych odcinków trekkingu , gdyż trasa prowadzi głównie przez las i kilka miasteczek. Największe podejście czeka nas dopiero na końcu trasy.  Natomiast tuż przed Champex zaczyna padać deszcz, który szybko przeradza się w ulewę . Schronienia szukamy w garażu w pierwszym domu, który widzimy po wyjściu z lasu. Niestety nie zapowiada się na poprawę pogody, więc ruszamy w stronę campingu w nieustającej ulewie. Po drodze zachodzimy też do sklepu uzupełnić zapasy. Wiemy już, że kolejnego dnia nie będzie w miasteczku sklepu.

Trafiamy na Camping Rocailles. Jest to jeden z droższych campingów na trasie (ah te szwajcarskie ceny). Na miejscu znajduje się wiata, pod którą szukamy schronienia (kilka stołów, czajnik i mikrofalówka, jest też mały sklepik przy recepcji) i czekamy na moment bez deszczu żeby rozstawić namiot.

Dzień 2 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : La Fouly –> Champex Dystans : 15km Przewyższenie : 552m Czas : 5h Nocleg : Camping Rocailles Cena : 33,20 franków Sklep : w Champex, po drodze na camping

Więcej noclegów w Champex tutaj.

Dzień 3: Champex –> Le Peuty

Pogoda kolejnego dnia nie zapowiada się lepiej, więc rezygnujemy z alternatywnej trasy przez najwyższy punkt TMB Fenetre d’Arpette (2665m npm). Ten wariant najlepiej wybrać tylko przy ładnej pogodzie. Nasza klasyczna trasa prowadzi przez las, na szczęście deszcz już nie pada. Po drodze przechodzimy przez kilka potoków, silnie zasilonych wodą z opadów deszczu. Najwyższy punkt naszej trasy znajduje się przy restauracji Bovine . Dalsze zejście jest bardzo łagodne i nie sprawia problemów. Dochodzimy do miasteczka Forclaz skąd ruszamy na camping w Le Peuty. Stąd zejście jest już dosyć ostre, ale pogoda zaczyna się poprawiać i widzimy pierwsze szczyty w okolicy.

Le Peuty to tak na prawdę pole biwakowe , z toaletą i prysznicem w przerobionym toi toju. Około 18 przyjeżdża pani zbierająca opłatę za możliwość rozstawienia namiotu. Jest to najsłabszy i zarazem najzimniejszy nocleg na trasie. Temperatura spadła nawet do 2 stopni powyżej zera, wieje mocny wiatr, więc wcześnie idziemy spać z nadzieją na przetrwanie tej nocy.

Dzień 3 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Champex –> Le Peuty Dystans : 15km Przewyższenie : 738m Czas : 6h Nocleg : Camping Le peuty Cena : 12 euro/ 12 franków Sklep : self-service z makaronem, jajkami, serem w lodówce

Dzień 4: Le Peuty –> Tre Le Champ

Ta noc była wyjątkowo zimna. Wstajemy wcześnie rano z nadzieją rozgrzania się na podejściu. Dzisiaj idziemy do Francji przez przełęcz Col de Balme (2 195m) . Podejście zaczyna się tuż po wyjściu z campingu i większość trasy biegnie przez las. Na górze czeka na nas bardzo klimatyczne schronisko serwujące pyszne naleśniki. We Francji wita nas bezchmurne niebo i pierwszy widok na Mont Blanc od strony północnej , który będzie nam towarzyszył przez najbliższe dni. Wybieramy dłuższy wariant trasy przez Aiguillette des Posettes, żeby nacieszyć się słońcem i widokami.

Schodzimy do Tre Le Champ z zamiarem spania na campingu Tre Le Champ, jednak na miejscu okazuje się że w 2020 roku był on zamknięty . Wyszukujemy pobliski alternatywny camping przy schronisku Boerne . Jest to bardzo urokliwe, małe schronisko z restauracją i możliwością rozstawienia namiotu. W środku znajduje się też czajnik i mikrofalówka. Możemy też podładować sprzęt elektroniczny i posiedzieć w stołówce. Po uzupełnienie zapasów udajemy się do miasteczka Argentiere, położonego 2 kilometry od schroniska. Możemy zrobić tam większe zakupy, gdyż kolejnego dnia śpimy w górach. W miasteczku znajdują się sklepy sportowe, restauracje i piekarnia.

Dzień 4 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Le Peuty –> Col de Balme –> Aiguillette des Posettes –> Tre Le Champ Dystans : 13km Przewyższenie : 876m Czas : 7h Nocleg : Camping Boerne Cena: 16 euro Sklep : w miasteczku Argentiere, duży wybór plus sklepy sportowe, piekarnia

Dzień 5: Tre Le Champ –> La Flegere

Kolejny dzień jest dosyć krótki, ale bardziej wymagający . To pierwszy całkowicie ładny pogodowo dzień na TMB. Przyzwyczajone do chmur i zimna z poprzednich dni wychodzimy dopiero przed godziną 9. Za cel obieramy schronisko La Flegere , do którego dochodzimy przez jezioro Lac Blanc (2352m npm).  Na trasie do jeziora czekają na nas drabinki i łańcuchy.

Bez wątpienia warto zatrzymać się przy jeziorku Lacs de Cheserys skąd mamy niesamowity widok na Mont Blanc odbijający się w tafli wody. Po dłuższej chwili odpoczynku nad wodą udajemy się do Lac Blanc, a tam atmosfera bardziej przypomina Morskie Oko. Przede wszystkim jest tu mnóstwo ludzi, którzy podjeżdżają w okolice kolejką. Dopada nas słońce w zenicie, co bardzo nas rozleniwia i desperacko szukamy cienia. Po kilkunastu minutach postanawiamy schodzić i szukać miejsca na rozbicie namiotu. Zejście do La Flegere jest bardzo sypkie i trzeba bardzo uważać zarówno na kamienie, jak i na ludzi. Większość czasu idziemy w tłumie.

W La Flegere za pozwoleniem pracowników schroniska rozbijamy namiot przy zbiorniku wodnym. Tego dnia czeka na nas już tylko piękny zachód słońca z widokiem na Mont Blanc.

Dzień 5 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Tre Le Champ –> Lac Blanc –> La Flegere Dystans : 8,3 km Przewyższenie : 958mCzas: 6h Nocleg : przy schronisku La Flegere Cena : 0 pln Sklep : nie ma

Dzień 6: La Flegere –>  Les Houches

Kolejnego dnia zmieniamy taktykę i ruszamy po 7 chcąc uniknąć palącego słońca. Pierwszy przystanek to szczyt Brevent (2525m npm) . Jako, że jest wcześnie na trasie spotykamy dosyć mało ludzi , nie ma też punktów z wodą pitną . Niedaleko szczytu mamy do pokonania kilka drabinek. W Brevent znajduje się stacja kolejki i restauracja. Jednak my nie robimy długiej przerwy i zaczynamy długie i mozolne zejście do Les Houches. Do pokonania mamy około 1500 metrów w dół . Do schroniska Refuge de Bellachat trasa jest dosyć przyjemna i łagodna. Niestety słońce już zaczyna mocno grzać, a za schroniskiem czas wydłuża się niesamowicie i mamy wrażenie stania w miejscu. Pierwsza część prowadzi dosyć ostro w dół. W końcu schodzimy na granicę lasu, gdzie czeka nas upragniony cień i jeszcze ponad 900m w dół. Niewątpliwie trasa ciągnie się i dłuży. Dopiero po kilku długich godzinach docieramy do Les Houches.

Początkowo planowałyśmy spać na campingu Bellevue, jednak on także w 2020 roku był zamknięty. Dlatego tylko robimy zakupy w Les Houches i za chwilę ruszamy darmowym busem w kierunku Chamonix na camping Grand Champ. Mamy szczęście i dostajemy ostatnie wolne miejsce na rozstawienie namiotu.

Dzień 6 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : La Flegere –> Brevent –>  Les Houches Dystans : 21km Przewyższenie : 1511m Czas : 7,5h Nocleg : camping Grand Champ Cena: 16,4 euro Sklep : Carrefour w Les Houches

Więcej noclegów w Chamonix i Les Houches

Dzień 7: Les Houches –> Les Contamines

Kolejny dzień jest jednym z najbardziej wymagających na trasie. Wstajemy rano i dojeżdżamy busem do miejsca, w którym poprzedniego dnia zakończyłyśmy wędrówkę. Początek trasy to mozolne, strome i długie podejście drogą polną. Przy stacji kolejowej znajduje się pole biwakowe. Od tego momentu aż do Les Chapieux będzie kilka takich miejsc, gdzie można rozbić namiot za darmo . Tutaj wybieramy wariant przez przełęcz Col de Tricot (2120m npm). Początkowo ten wariant trasy biegnie dosyć płaskim terenem przez las. Mamy piękny widok na góry i lodowiec, więc postanawiamy zmniejszyć trochę wagę plecaków i wypić kawę w tym pięknym otoczeniu. Postój trochę nam się wydłuża i ruszamy dalej już po 10. Dochodzimy do mostu wiszącego i od tego punktu zaczyna się wejście pod górę. Szybko wychodzimy poza granicę lasu, gdzie nie ma już ani trochę cienia.

W końcu dochodzimy na przełęcz skąd czeka na nas dosyć ostre zejście w dół aż do wioski Chalet de Miage. Jest tam schronisko, restauracja, pole biwakowe oraz potok w którym chłodzimy stopy. Po kolejnej przerwie ruszamy do Les Contamines. Aby się tam dostać musimy podejść około 180 metrów do góry, aby następnie schodzić długą drogą aż do Les Contamines.

W mieście znajduje się Carrefour, kilka sklepów i restauracji. Po zakupach udajemy się na camping Le Pontet zlokalizowany 3 kilometry za miasteczkiem.

Dzień 7 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Les Houches –> Col de Tricot –> Les Contamines Dystans : 21km Przewyższenie : 1478m Czas : 7h Nocleg : Le Pontet Cena : 17 euro Sklep : po drodze w Les Contamines

Więcej noclegów w Les Contamines.

Dzień 8: Les Contamines –> Les Chapieux

Kolejnego dnia wstajemy razem ze słońcem i pierwsze opuszczamy camping około 7. Nie ma specjalnych trudności na trasie. Początkowo trasa dosyć długo prowadzi płaskim terenem, mijamy sporo kraników z wodą pitną i pól biwakowych. Podchodzimy na przełęcz Col de Bonhomme (2340m npm) skąd mamy piękny widok na stronę północną i południową. Po przerwie ruszamy w kierunku schroniska Croix du Bonhomme (2442m npm) . Przy schronisku można wybrać alternatywną trasę przez przełęcz Col des Fours . My jednak ruszamy na pole biwakowe w Les Chapieux. Na trasie w dół kolejny raz nie znajdujemy cienia.

W Les Chapieux znajdujemy punkt informacyjny z toaletą i wodą pitną otwartą 24h. Znajduje się tam też schronisko, restauracja i sklepik z serami i bagietkami. Prysznic możemy wziąć w schronisku za 5 euro. Nie ma zupełnie zasięgu, jeśli bardzo chcemy kontaktu ze światem możemy wykupić dostęp do WiFi – 30 minut za 2 euro. Mamy szczęście gdyż tego dnia w Les Chapieux odbywa się koncert, który umila nam odpoczynek pod drzewami. Dodatkowo dzięki odcięciu od cywilizacji możemy podziwiać cudownie rozgwieżdżone niebo, nawet nie wychodząc z namiotu.

Dzień 8 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Les Contamines –> Col de Bonhomme –> Les Chapieux Dystans : 17km Przewyższenie : 1300mCzas: 7h Nocleg : pole biwakowe Les Chamieux Cena : 0 pln Sklep : mały sklepik z serami i bagietkami

Dzień 9: Les Champieux –> Courmayeur

To nasz ostatni dzień na TMB i tego dnia wracamy do Włoch. Ruszamy z campingu mało nachyloną drogą. Dopiero przy schronisku Refuge des Mottets trasa zaczyna być stroma. W okolicy widzimy też kilka osób śpiących na dziko. Ruszamy dalej aż do przełęczy Col de la Seigne (2520m npm) na której znajduje się granica francusko-włoska. Po raz kolejny mamy niesamowity widok na Mont Blanc. Istotnie zmienia się tu otoczenie na bardziej skalne i surowe. Teraz czeka nas spokojne zejście w dół szeroką doliną. Po drodze mijamy schronisko Rifugio Elisabetta oraz Cabane du Combal gdzie zaczyna się szlak prowadzący na Mont Blanc od strony włoskiej . Z każdej strony otacza nas piękny widok. Podczas zejścia łapie nas lekki deszcz, jako zapowiedź wieczornej burzy.

Tej i kolejnej nocy zostajemy na campingu La Sorgente niedaleko Courmayeu r. Camping jest położony u stóp gór. Żeby do niego zejść musimy trochę odbić z głównej trasy TMB. Kursuje też do niego darmowy autobus z centrum Courmayeur. Na campingu znajdziemy mini market, gdzie możemy zamówić świeże pieczywo na rano, stołówkę, miejsce na grillowanie i mnóstwo atrakcji (głównie dla dzieci 😁). To już nasz ostatni etap wędrówki także z radością odpoczywamy.

Dzień 9 TMB: camping i informacje

Trasa : Les Champieux –> Col de la Seigne –> Rifugio Elisabetta –> Courmayeur Dystans :  23km Przewyższenie : 1000m Czas : 7,5h Nocleg : Camping la Sorgente Cena : 22,8 euro Sklep : mały market na campingu lub sklepy w Courmayeur

TMB Koniec trekkingu

Jako, że trekking miałyśmy zaplanowany na 10 dni, a do Courmayeur doszłyśmy dzień wcześniej, ostatniego dnia zrobiłyśmy sobie wejście na górę Mont Chetif w Courmayeur . Bez wątpienia roztacza się stamtąd piękny widok na włoskie miasteczko i okoliczne góry.

I tak podsumowując za nami Tour du Mont Blanc. Trasa oferuje mnóstwo przepięknych widoków i codzienny kontakt z naturą. Przed wyjazdem warto poszukać sobie mapki trekkingu choć takie możemy dostać w każdym punkcie informacyjnym lub zakupić bardziej szczegółowe mapy w sklepie. Szlak we Włoszech i Szwajcarii jest bardzo dobrze oznaczony, we Francji widać tylko oznaczenie na słupkach informacyjnych (typu początek trasy lub przełęcz). TMB to super trasa trekkingowa, zwłaszcza jeśli w tym roku nie mamy możliwości dalszych podróży poza Europę.

Jeśli ten post uważasz za przydatny i masz ochotę wesprzeć moje działania, możesz postawić mi kawę klikając w link poniżej. Dziękuję!

Cześć! Mam na imię Zuza. Uwielbiam podróżować, chodzić po górach i ćwiczyć jogę. Moim ulubionym kierunkiem jest Hiszpania, przeszłam tam kilka dróg Camino de Santiago. Stworzyłam ten blog aby dzielić się swoimi doświadczeniami z podróży.

Zobacz również

Lofoty i Senja – co zobaczyć na Lofotach w Norwegii

Bernina Express, czyli pociąg panoramiczny w Szwajcarii

Teneryfa – co zobaczyć, informacje praktyczne

11 komentarzy.

Pięknie, zazdroszczę przejścia. Przymierzam się na przyszły rok. Stąd moje pytanie: czy jest możliwość mocowania pod namiotem gdzieś wyżej, żeby nie schodzić za każdym razem w doliny ( 1-2 noclegi)? Też obawiam się , że mój lekki śpiwór może nie dać rady , ale…gdybym dołożyła do niego śpiwór zewnętrzny, ten foliowy, to może by dało radę, jak myślisz? Za dużo rzeczy muszę dokupić ( pierwszy trekking), żal kasy na kolejny śpiwór :((. Gdzie najlepiej sprawdzać pogodę?

Hej 🙂 co do schodzenia to większość trasy przebiega góra-dół i nawet nie schodząc na nocleg i tak w ciągu dnia trzebaby zejść niżej. We Francji jest jeden nocleg wyżej przy schronisku, ale nie wiem czy dałoby się zaplanować tak żeby nie schodzić w ogóle.

Hmm co do śpiworu, to jedna noc u nas była taka zimna, więc dało się przeżyć z lżejszym śpiworem… Pewnie zależy od pogody i miesiąca w którym się jedzie.. ale to góry i ciężko zaplanować z wyprzedzeniem.. może taka wkładka byłaby ok 🙂

Pogodę sprawdzałam na accuweather.com

Super opis, duzo przydatnej wiedzy można tu znaleźć. Ja juz po i bardzo pomógł mi Twój wpis w ogranizacji wyjazdu ✌

Hej 🙂 czy rezerwowałyście wcześniej miejsca na polach namiotowych? Miałyście sytuacje, że campingi były przepełnione? Dzięki za super wpis! ❤

Cześć 🙂 rezerwowałyśmy tylko pierwszy nocleg. Generalnie zawsze mają zarezerwowaną pulę miejsc dla ludzi robiących TMB i przychodzących bez rezerwacji 🙂 pozdrawiam i udanej wyprawy!

PROSZĘ NIE PARKOWAĆ W LES HOUCHES!! SAMOCHODY SĄ MASOWO OKRADANE I NISZCZONE!!! MNÓSTWO OKRADZIONYCH SAMOCHODÓW, ZŁODZIEJE ŻADNEGO SAMOCHODU NIE PRZEPUŚCILI!! MIMO ZAPEWNIEŃ W INFORMACJI TURYSTYCZNEJ, ŻE PARKING JEST BEZPIECZNY!! NA POLICJI DOWIEDZIELIŚMY SIĘ, ŻE MIESIĄC TEMU BYŁO TAKIE SAMO ZDARZENIE!! NIE MA INNEGO PARKINGU W LES HOUCHES, LEPIEJ POSZUKAĆ INNEJ MIEJSCOWOŚCI LUB NIE PRZYJEŻDŻAĆ SAMOCHODEM.

Dzięki za informację

Hej, mam pytanie odnosnie stopnia trudnosci samej trasy i tych przewyzszen, czy podejscia sa bardzo wymagajace czy jednak jest ona dosc zrownowazona? czy jest to jednak trasa dla osoby ktora nie trenuje wybitnie?

Cześć, codziennie mamy do pokonania Ok. 1000m przewyższeń, w niektóre dni więcej. Myślę, że może nie trzeba trenować wybitnie ale przygotować się warto aby nie cierpieć codziennie 🙂

A ja mam pytanie o trudności w postaci ekspozycji. Czy na trasie jest dużo miejść do pokonania gdzie są łańcuchy, drabinki lub inne miejsca, które mogą stanowić trudność dla osoby z lękiem wysokości? 🙂 ps. Super opis wyprawy 🙂

Hej 🙂 z tego co pamiętam to nie. Drabinki z podejściem do góry były w okolicach Argentière, ale nie była to Orła Perć i przepaście. Raczej po prostu mocne podejście do góry 🙂

Dodaj komentarz Anuluj pisanie odpowiedzi

Twój adres e-mail nie zostanie opublikowany. Wymagane pola są oznaczone *

Witryna internetowa

Privacy Overview

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

VARIANT TMB ITINERARY 9 DAYS

This Variant full circuit Tour du Mont Blanc 9 day itinerary is a spin off of the classic TMB route but adds in every variant route creating a tour that covers a diverse variety of terrain. This variant Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary has no valley accommodation bar one, shunning valley & town hotels for the peace and solitude of the high mountain huts.

This itinerary has been planned for the average walker or trekker and uses some public transport along the trail such as cable cars, chair lifts and shuttle buses. One stage of the TMB (stage 7) is taken by bus.

Please note because this itinerary takes in all the higher altitude variants it is not suitable to take this variant early season from mid June when the traditional TMB route opens through to approximately the beginning of the second week of July. During this time the variants can be very dangerous due to snow, particularly the Col des Fours which has melting snow bridges over hidden strong flowing rivers. Deaths have occurred here – please do not take this itinerary early season. Always check conditions before setting out at the High Mountain Office in Chamonix and check with wardens before setting out each day from the refuges.

Variant full tour TMB – 9 days

Start point: Chamonix             End point: Chamonix             Length: 9 days

Day 1 – Les Houches (Chamonix) – Refuge Nant Borrant (17.2km 7.5-9hrs)

Day 2 – refuge nant borrant (via col des fours) – refuge les mottets (13.3km 6-7.5hrs).

• Day 3 – Refuge les Mottets – Cabane Combal (10.7km 4-5hrs)

Day 4 – Cabane Combal – Refugio Bertone (16.8km 7.5 – 9hrs)

Day 5 – refugio bertone (via col sapin) chalet val ferret (15.1km. 6-7.5hrs).

• Day 6 – Chalet Val Ferret – Relais d’Arpette. (16.3km 6-8hrs)

Day 7 – Relais d’Arpette (via Col du Fenêtre) Refuge du Col de Balme (17.5km 7-9hrs)

Day 8 – refuge du col de balme – refuge lac blanc (12.2km 6-8hrs), day 9 – refuge lac blanc – le brévent – les houches (8km 3-4hrs / 17.3km 6-7km).

Good to know: This variant 9 day Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary should only be done in good weather. Many of the variants are dangerous to trek during bad weather. If you book this as one of our self guided trips you will be advised on the potential weather just before you depart & alternative plans can be made. If you are hiking independently please make sure you consult the weather forecasts daily to check on any bad weather sweeping through.

Start point: Les Houches (a village at the bottom of the Chamonix Valley)

Route overview:

Starting in the village of Les Houches at the end of Chamonix’s valley, our itinerary takes the cable car up to the Bellevue Plateau (or add another two hours onto today’s trek by hiking from the valley floor). Admire the Dôme du Goûter and the Aiguille Bionnassay before descending to cross the raging glacial torrent by the iconic Himalayan suspension bridge. The route then passes the spectacular Bionnassay glacier before climbing up to the grassy saddle of Col du Tricot. This stage 1 variant should never be done in bad weather but is not particularly taxing. The descent into the Miage valley is however very steep.

Book ahead for a table at Refuge du Miage to enjoy lunch overlooking the impressive Dômes du Miage. It gets very busy in the peak season so call ahead to avoid disappontment.

The trail then winds up briefly before descending to the French town of Les Contamines, traditionally the stop over point for the first stage. Our itinerary pushes on for a further hour on the trail to stop at the first refuge out of Les Contamines, the charming Nant Borrant, one of the best refuges on the TMB.

By catching the free navette to Gorge du Notre Dame (only during July & August) and then climbing the steep hill up to the refuge, you’ll a 1 hour head start on a challenging day tomorrow – tackling two cols in one day.

Today is a strenuous day which is duly rewarded with incredible views over wild desolate cols. This is truly les Alpes sauvages and your heart will sing to be far from civilisation. You’ll climb over no less than THREE mountain passes Col du Bonhomme (2329m), Col de la Croix de Bonhomme (2483m), then if the weather is fine up to Col des Fours (2665m) before descending into the tiny hamlet of Ville des Glaciers and onto the nearby Refuge des Mottets.

This spectacular variant of Col des Fours leads you over a lunar like landscape and cuts out the hamlet of Les Chapieux entirely.

Tip: be sure take the 10 minute detour at the top of Col des Fours to the view point Tête des Fours – it is nothing short of spectacular and is the only point on the trek where you can see where you’ve come from and where you’re going to from a birds eye view – oh and the view of the Mont Blanc Massif is nothing short of spectacular as well! You can see all along the Montjoie Valley & the tiny trekkers climbing Col du Bonhomme as well as all along the Vallée des Glaciers and up to the Col de la Seigne.

I advise stashing your rucksack behind one of the many boulders to simply float up to the view point! Note this route cuts out the hamlet of Les Chapieux. Never attempt this variant route if the weather is nothing short of perfect.

If the weather is bad, take the traditional TMB trail from Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme and descend all the way to down to the valley floor and into the hamlet of Les Chapieux. Stop for a welcome refreshment at the friendly Auberge de la Nova.

From Les Chapieux you can choose to walk up to Refuge des Mottets or if you’re tried catch the  navette  (shuttle bus) from the Les Chapieux information hut. The navette costs €3.50 and ferries you in 20 minutes to Ville des Glaciers from where you can pick up the trail again up to Refuge des Mottets.

Refuge des Mottets is a former daily farm renovated to a great standard. If you choose dorm accommodation you’ll in fact be sleeping in the old cattle barn! We love Refuge des Mottets for it’s friendly atmosphere, it’s fantastic food and especially their evening entertainment!

Day 3 – Refuge Les Mottets – Cabane Combal (10.7km 4-5hrs)

Today you’ll switch from Bonjour to Ciao as you climb the Col de la Seigne (2516m) on fresh legs and walk over the frontière into Italy.

From the col it’s all downhill onto the wide, flat valley floor of Vallon de la Lée Blanche. Pass Refuge Elisabetta, a basic cavernous refuge, commanding an exceptional view perched on a spur of the Pyramides Calcaires, with not one, but two glaciers (Glacier d’Estellette and Glacier de la Lée Blanche) spilling down behind it. The refuge has a good terrace if you need a refreshment before heading on the further 45-60 minutes along the ancient arrow straight Roman road to your accommodation for the night – the picture postcard A frame Refugio Cabane Combal.

Today’s hike takes you up out of the Val Veni floor climbing steadily up to the highest point, a spur from Mont Favre. Looking back you can see the monstrous moraine of Glacier Miage dwarfing Cabane Combal and on a clear day all the way back to Col de la Seigne. From here you’ll trace the contours of the south flank of the Val Veni, following the rise and fall of the mountain side with jaw dropping views of sawtooth peaks and Monte Bianco opposite.

From Refugio Maison Vielle during peak season (Aug & Sept) you can opt to take the chair lift and connecting cable car down to Dolonne which is a 10 minute saunter into Courmayeur. We’ve included this chairlift/gondola in the planning of this itinerary (11.8km 5-7hrs) – the descent from Maison Vielle to to the Courmayeur is brutal plus you’ve got another 776m of elevation to climb after lunch to get to your bed for the night at Refuge Bertone (2000m). We highly recommend lunch at Pizzeria Ristorante du Tunnel who serve the largest pizza we’ve ever seen!

After a leisurely lunch it’s 4km uphill to your bed for the night at Refugio Bertone.

If you want to cut this day down due to sheer exhaustion, injury or to perhaps include a rest day in Courmayeur there is an option to take the bus from Visaille to Courmayeur. Visaille can reached in just under 2 hours from Rifugio Elisabetta or just under an hour from Cabane Combal. Turn right after the bridge just before Cabane Combal – it’s a 30-40 minute walk to the village of Visaille where the bus departs on the hour.

Today you’ll be taking the variant Col Sapin (2436m) from Refugio Bertone instead of the gentle contour of the Southern ridge of Val Ferret. Again you’ll only take this variant in good weather – if not follow the easier, faster traditional route to Chalet Val Ferret.

From the junction path near Refugio Bertone the path climbs steeply up to Mont de la Saxe. From here the ridge line trail heralds jaw dropping views of the south wall of the Massif du Mont Blanc from Col de la Seigne which you climbed over from France yesterday all the way along to Grand Col Ferret which you’ll climb tomorrow into Switzerland. On a clear day this panoramic view is incredible!

The path then descends steeply to Col Sapin (2436m) across Vallon d’Armina onto Pas Entre-Deux-Sauts (2524m) and into Vallon de Malatra before popping out just above the infamous Refugio Bonatti. The trail then continues a gentle traverse before dropping down to the valley floor & to your bed for the night at Chalet Val Ferret.

Day 6 – Chalet Val Ferret – Relais d’Arpette (16.3km 6-8hrs)

Today you’ll climb over the Grand Col Ferret and cross into Switzerland! The gentle Swiss alpine meadows are in stark comparison to the jagged wild landscapes you’ve trekked through in Italy and France. Take it easy as the trail descends to Ferret and the La Fouly.

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!

From here you’ll catch a local bus to Champex-Lac, a beautiful little town next to a pretty lake. Nicknamed ‘Little Canada’ it’s not hard to imagine why – this beautiful lakeside town is surrounded by hills of pine and is genuinely a beautiful spot. You’ll press on though out of town for a further 5km up taking the beginning of the variant route up to the Relais d’Arpette where you can relax and bed down ready to tackle, weather permitting one of the most exciting sections of the TMB trail – the Col du Fenêtre.

Today is a long day combining two variant stages into one. We must again make you aware that you cannot hike the Col du Fenêtre is the weather is less than perfect. It’s the most technical terrain on the entire TMB and unlike the rest of the trek, the trail is not marked well and can be lost. The boulder field just before the Col requires a lot of attention and trekkers need to be mindful of loose screw and rocks that dislodge easily and can be fatal to trekkers below. Set off super early though and you’ll be in for a treat. When you finally summit the Col you will feel a real sense of achievement – it’s the only place on the trek I’ve experienced other trekkers congratulating each other a real sense of camaraderie.

The descent from the Col du Fenêtre is nothing short of astounding. Hairpin bends wind down the rocky descent with the incredible Trient Glacier trailing down beside the trail. This huge hunk of ice will mesmorise you during your descent and will surely be one of your unforgettable memories of this incredible trek.

Once you reach the buvette you’ll cross the wooden bridge and start the uphill slog to Refuge Les Grands. The Tibetan style path carved out of the rock will leave you in awe. Stop at the refuge for a cold drink and press on high along hugging the mountain flank until eventually you’ll spot Trient far below and the Trient glacier disappears behind you. You’ll soon see your home for the night – Refuge Col du Balme with it’s iconic red shutters – a tiny dot on the Col du Balme saddle – another frontière marking the boundary between Switzerland and France.

Trekking the north flank of the Chamonix Valley, this itinerary divides stages 10 and 11 of the Tour du Mont Blanc with a detour up to the infamous Lac Blanc. Hiking through the Aiguille Rouge National Park, you’ll have a good chance of seeing marmots, chamois or bouquetin. If you want to complete the entire Les Houches to Les Houches circuit though you’ll need to set off uber early today – it’s a challenging day ending with a knee crunching descent into Les Houches. It may be too much for some and if this is the case there’s the option to take the Plan Praz cable car down to Chamonix centre rather than pressing onto Les Houches.

It’s a 2 hours climb up to Lac Blanc for trekkers of your speed. The route climbs steadily until you reach the infamous TMB ladders – a series of 13 ladders and metal ware built into the rock. It’s the most exciting physical aspect of the entire Tour du Mont Blanc. See notes at the top of this page for how to avoid these ladders if you suffer from vertigo. At the Tête aux Vents, a large cairn (2132m) which borders the national park you can choose to detour up to Lac Blanc or traverse along the trail to La Flégère. Lac Blanc (2,352m) has an almost mythical stature – however if you’re not staying overnight at the refuge you’ll most probably experience the hoard of day trippers who access the lake via the cable car and chair lift. It’s still worth a look but downgrade your expectations. The magic here happens when the day trippers leave late afternoon. If you have an extra day in your schedule it’s worth booking Refuge Lac Blanc and experiencing the incredible serene peace that descends each evening.

Today you have a number of exits available to you on the trail. If you need to cut your trip short and leave for home today you can either take the gondola down from La Flégère to the village of Les Praz (10 minute bus ride to central Chamonix) or continue along the balcony route until Plan Praz (8km 3-4 hours) and take the Plan Praz gondola down to central Chamonix. Longer options are taking the Le Brévent cable car up from Plan Praz (17.3km 6-7hrs) and then hiking down to Les Houches, or the longest option (which we would advise against if you want to get into Les Houches during daylight hours is to trek the entire trail to Les Houches (19.8km 8-10 hours or perhaps even longer!)

From Refuge Lac Blanc follow the balcony trail past La Flégère and continue to Plan Praz. The entire route along this balcon walk has incredible views of Mont Blanc weather permitting. It truly is astounding. Often it seems like a painted landscape it truly is surreal. Descend via the Plan Praz cable car to Chamonix centre or if you’ve still got energy – you’ve set off early and want to complete the entire circuit from start to finish you’ll need to continue onwards. The best way to do this is to take the cable car UP from Plan Praz to Le Brévent which gives again, insane views of Mont Blanc. The long descent from Le Brévent is hard on the knees but is beautiful with wild red and pink azaleas popping with colour. This area again is known for common sightings of chamois. Expect to fall into Les Houches – this is a huge day but also completing the whole TMB in just 7 days is no easy feat. Well done!

Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

Privacy overview.

Well and Good Travel

The Foolproof Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary: 10-Days

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

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

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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary 10 Days

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

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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Trek Specs:

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary Disclaimers:

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

Day 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

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

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

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

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

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

💤 Where to stay: Gai Soleil

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

Day 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

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

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

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

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

✔ Mileage: 14 miles / 22.5 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 4500 ft /3000 ft down

✔ Estimated hiking time: 7 hours

💤 Where to stay: Auberge de la Nova

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

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

Day 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Cabane du Combal

🌀 One of the most beautiful days of the trek!

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

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

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

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

✔ Mileage: 10 miles / 16 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3400 ft / 1036 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 5.5 hours

💤 Where to stay: Cabane du Combal

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

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

Day 4: Cabane du Combal to Rifugio Maison Vieille

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

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

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

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

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1900 ft / 600 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 3 – 4 hours

💤 Where to stay: Rifugio Maison Vieille

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

Day 5: Rifugio Maison Vieille to Rifugio Walter Bonatti

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

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

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

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

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3600 ft / 1100 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 6 hours

💤 Where to stay: Rifugio Walter Bonatti

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

Day 6: Rifugio Walter Bonatti to La Fouly

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

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3200 ft. / 975 m

⏳ Estimated hiking time: 7 hours

💤 Where to stay: Auberge des Glaciers

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

Day 7: La Fouly to Champex

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

✔ Mileage: 9 miles / 14.5 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 2000 ft. / 609 m

✔ Estimated hiking time: 4.5 hours

💤 Where to stay: Hotel Splendide

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

Day 8: Champex to Trient

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

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

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

✔ Mileage: 12.5 miles / 20 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 2800 ft. / 853 m

💤 Where to stay: Le Peuty

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

Day 9: Trient to Tre le Champ

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

✔ Mileage: 10.5 miles / 17 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3400 ft. / 1036 m

💤 Where to stay: Auberge la Boerne

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

Day 10: Tre le Champ to Chamonix

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

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

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

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

✔ Mileage: 11.5 miles / 18.5 km

⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3200 ft. / 990 m

💤 Where to stay: Grand Hotel des Alpes

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Alltrails

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

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

FAQs About the Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

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

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

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

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

How much water should I carry on the TMB?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I book the refuges?

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

What gear do I need for the TMB?

See my Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List .

What To Expect on The Trail

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

Wrap-Up: Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary 10 Days

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

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

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

TMB : TOUR DU MONT BLANC

6 DAYS, SELF-GUIDED

We’ll take care of organizing your 6-days/5-nights TMB. So, let you guided through its majestic landscapes!

The TMB ( Tour du Mont Blanc ) is an internationally renowned hiking trail. And its fame is well-deserved!

Every season, this itinerary brings emotion and satisfaction to novices and experienced hikers alike. It’s the perfect blend of mountain and mountaineering landscapes : a wonderful natural show!

“When everything is increasingly planned, programmed, organized, being able to get lost will soon be a delight and an exceptional luxury.” Gaston Rebuffat.

Searching Availability...

Tour du Mont Blanc, 6 days (self-guided):

A guided tour, with complete autonomy!

Day 1: Les Houches – Les Contamines (France) Let’s go ! Here you are at the beginning of your Tour du Mont-Blanc, at the foot of the Bellevue cable car in Les Houches, which you will surely take (one way cable car included) with many mountaineers as it is also the starting point of the famous Mont-Blanc ascent. From the top of the cable car, you will hike under the Bionnassay glacier to the Col du Tricot to discover a magnificent view of the Contamines-Montjoie valley. You will then start your descent towards the Chalets de Miage and the village of Contamines-Montjoie where you will spend the night.

Approximate distance : 11km – Elevation gain & loss: +640m / -1280m.

Day 2 : Les Contamines – Les Chapieux (France) From the village of Les Contamines-Montjoie, you will head today towards the hamlet of Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge (where the asphalt road ends). From the chapel, continue to the Refuge de Nant Borrant and Refuge de Balme and then continue to the Col du Bonhomme (the Col du Bonhomme is a great place to have a picnic). In the afternoon, you will descend to the hamlet of Les Chapieux, where you will spend the night.

Approximate distance: 19km – Elevation gain & loss: +1360m / -970m. 

Approximate distance: 20 km – Elevation gain & loss: +1060m / -970m.

Approximate distance : 15 km – Elevation gain & loss : +820m / -985m.

Day 5 : Champex – Trient (Switzerland) Departing from Champex, you will continue to enjoy this picturesque area beginning with an hour and a half of easy hiking along the “cattle road” that ranchers once used to guide their cattle through the mountains. Continuing through the hilly terrain, you enjoy views of the Dents du Midi and climb through the forest to lookouts over the beautiful Rhone Valley and the town of Martigny. You then descend to the Col de la Forclaz and then to your accommodation in Trient.

Approximate distance : 15 km – Elevation gain & loss : +830m / -1020m.  

Approximate distance: 14 km – Elevation gain & loss: +1130m / -1040m.  

Note: the itinerary, distances and altitudes may vary slightly for many reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions.

Please also be aware that self-guided trek involves your own responsibility for the route you choose and the choices you make on the trails. We will provide you with a roadbook, map and GPX tracks but you will be hiking every day on your own and we cannot be responsible for the decision and events that may occur during your hike.

Included / Not included :

• Accommodation: 4 nights in dormitory and 1 night in private accommodation.
• Meals: 5 breakfasts and 4 dinners (dinner not included in Courmayeur). 
• Lifts : Bellevue cable car on Day 1 (one way). 
• Travel information: roadbook, GPS tracks, IGN map for 2 people.
• Assistance from our team on site.
• Luggage transfers throughout the trip, if you select this option (one soft bag of 15kg  max per person).

Not included:

• Repatriation and cancellation insurances.
• Accommodation for one night before the trip (Day 0) and one night after the trip (Day 6). 
• Transfers throughout the trip and transfers to/from Chamonix. 
• Dinner on Day 3. 
• Lunches, snacks and personal expenses. 
• Everything not indicated in the “included” section.

Options on request: Contact us

• Transfers to/from Chamonix.
• Accommodation in Chamonix.

Advice from our team: The Tour du Mont-Blanc is a trek that can be done from mid-June, due to snow conditions on the major passes, until September. However, public transport only runs from July to August. If you book a stay in June or September, you may have to take a taxi for some transfers (more expensive than public transport).

Confirmation of your travel dates: Our team will contact you after your booking on our website, to find out your preferred departure date. If we cannot find a satisfactory departure date, we will refund your deposit.

⚠️ The TMB is a very popular trip, it can take 2 to 3 weeks to receive a firm confirmation from us. We advise you to wait for our final confirmation with your travel dates before incurring additional costs such as your accommodation before and after your stay. Thank you for your understanding.

Supporting Subheading

We consider the difficulty level of the TMB to be “ elementary “. The TMB is therefore a demanding tour. Some stages are long (Day 2: 20km, 2300 meters of elevation gain), and our programs include a minimum of six consecutive days of walking, that is to say a minimum total distance covered of 95 kilometers and a minimum total elevation gain of 10,500 meters).

It is therefore highly recommended to prepare yourself physically and logistically.

• A physical training: The quality of your physical condition influences the success of your hike as well as the pleasure you get from it. It is therefore necessary to plan a regular physical training adapted to the practice. You must walk and/or run regularly in order to develop your resistance to effort, endurance and intensity. By carrying out day trips that offer an equivalent or more demanding level of difficulty. By multiplying the experiences that reinforce our aptitudes, skills and even promote the acquisition of new skills (varied terrain, rocks of all sizes, steeper slopes, presence of snow…) By diversifying the practice environments and modes of execution. By forcing one’s talent, one increases one’s physical level, technicality and accumulated experience.
• Logistical preparation: This is an important element that should not be ignored! Our list of “typical” equipment that will be given to you at the time of your registration will be of good advice.
• Free hiking: For all those who leave without a guide, here are some additional tips. Choose a hike at your level, measure your physical and technical abilities. Study your itinerary and take advice from competent organizations if necessary. Be attentive to all the information in our roadbooks, know how to turn back in case of difficulty or change in weather conditions.

In case of an accident, react quickly! Stay calm. Analyze the situation.

In case of hesitation or uncertainty about your abilities, your knowledge of the terrain, the environment, the management of your trek, choose our guided programs.

And above all! Keep your good mood and your smile in all occasions!

The mountain is a particular environment, which we need to discover and understand with a lot of patience, humility and with a limitless curiosity, because it is impossible to anticipate and predict. 

And it is this motivation that leads us to the mountains! Because in our lives and our daily lives, which are too often confined and sanitized, we sometimes feel the need to get out of our comfort zone.

And the mountain is the ideal playground and expression. First of all, it is a grandiose natural setting which, whatever the altitude, allows us to experience a multiplicity of landscapes, giving us a feeling of well-being and accomplishment with each new experience. It is then an environment that conditions our activities, because they must adapt, by innovating their processes in a permanent concern of awakening, attention and observation.

So we find in the mountains, the conditions of a life and practices that must adapt and anticipate. Here we are, potential actors of a life that has become exciting in a unique natural environment: isn’t that a bit like freedom?

Yes, the mountain is dangerous. The cold, the altitude, the relief, the weather, the tiredness, the glaciers, the avalanches are only parameters and/or events related to the environment, which like the sun and the fresh air characterize the mountain environment. The mountain is no less dangerous when you are not there! It is therefore our own actions and decisions that condition the degree of exposure that we wish to ” confront “, ” experience ” and/or ” tolerate “.

• The relief, the weather, the altitude are some of the natural elements that one must know and understand well in order to increase one’s level of practice while reducing one’s own (and the other practitioners’) risk of exposure to dangers.
• One’s own physical and technical capacities are a parameter that should never be ignored or overestimated!

So to resume:

• “The mountain is neither just nor unjust, it is just dangerous” R. Messner: That should never be forgotten!
• But we feel good there because ” The mountain offers to the man, all that the modern world forgets to give him ” B.Vian : That is essential !
• And to conclude, and to present our state of mind, “The virtue of a mountaineer is to never exceed his own limits while always advancing his own experience” W. Bonatti

Discover also…

Nuyama vous donne le choix 👇

Privacy overview.

• Multi-Day Hikes
• Gear Reviews

Ultimate Guide To Hiking TMB In 9 Days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is an iconic trek that has been a favorite among hikers, climbers and mountain lovers for centuries. This legendary route circles the highest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc, and passes through three countries – Italy, France and Switzerland. It is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in Europe, with its stunning alpine landscapes, glaciers and high mountain passes. At 170 kilometers (105 miles) long, this grueling hike takes approximately 8 to 14 days to complete with an elevation gain of over 10,000 meters (33,000 feet). Along the way you are rewarded with jaw-dropping views of villages tucked away in remote valleys and snowcapped mountain peaks soaring above lush meadows. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic alpine experience unlike any other.

This classic alpine trek isn’t just for experienced mountaineers; thanks to its plethora of well-marked trails and numerous refugios en route it can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a challenging but rewarding adventure in one of Europe’s most beautiful regions. With so much variety across its winding route there really is something for everyone; from tranquil lake reflections speckled in the sunshine to awe-inspiring views from mountain passes – the Tour du Mont Blanc really does offer an incredible journey into some truly spectacular places!

Table of Contents

Trail stats at a glance

• Distance  = 105 mi (170km)
• Elevation Gain – 33000 feet (10000 m)
• Elevation Loss – 33000 feet (10000 m)
• Highest point – Grand Col Ferret 8307 feet (2532 m)
• Duration – 8 to 14 days.
• Difficulty – it is either physically hard or very hard. It will depend on how many days you plan to finish it. Stay and eat in huts or carry your own gear
• Starting/Finishing  point  – Chamonix France , Courmayeur in Italy , or Champex in Switzerland
• Camping – possible.
• Average mi per day – 7.5 mi if you hike 14 days
• Total cost – $350 p.p. (we camped and carried our own food + cheap flights)
• Gear weight – 15 kg
• Getting to the start – accessible using public transport
• Replenishment – on average every 3 days
• Water – almost all the mountain streams are drinkable
• Guidebook – the Tour of Mont Blanc by Cicerone  or Andrew McCluggage (has all the maps you need)
• Campsite Map – Download
• Trail Map – Download

Different types of tours/hikes:

Guided tour.

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

Hiking Tour Du Mont Blanc with a guide via a tour company is probably the best option if you do not want to be responsible for anything. Since they will book your huts, they will pick you up from the airport, they will arrange bag pickups from one to another hut, and will provide a guide who knows the trail like his own backhand. Best of all you will only need to carry a daypack every day.

The major vice of this type of hiking is the price. It will be somewhere around 2000 Eur per person. Flights are not included.

Self-guided tour

Hiking Tour Du Mont Blanc self-guided is a great way to explore the beautiful mountain region in France , Italy , and Switzerland . It is easy to follow since it is well-marked, but it is important to have a Cicerone guidebook to ensure you are on the right track.

Additionally, it is wise to bring a paper map with you as electronics can sometimes fail. You will also need to decide if you are wild camping or staying in huts along the way and if you are bringing your own food or eating in the huts.

The more you rely on the huts for things like sleeping and meals, the more expensive your trip will be.

Read on to find out what you need to know if you are hiking self-guided.

Best time to visit

The best time to do the Tour du Mont Blanc is in the summer months: June, July, and August. The days are the longest and warmest, with the least rainfall, and the trails are buzzing with life

Getting there

Since the Tour du Mont Blanc is a circular route, there are many starting points on the route. The most common, by far, is Chamonix or the nearby town of Les Houches on the French side. However, you can also choose to start at any of the other main towns en route, like Courmayeur in Italy , or Champex in Switzerland .

The easiest and most convenient starting point is Chamonix via Geneva .

How to get to Chamonix via Geneva Airport

There are multiple transportation options available for getting to Chamonix , a city located 103 km away from the second largest airport in Switzerland , Geneva International Airport.

Shuttle transfer

You can reserve a one-way or round-trip transfer to and from GVA airport either from a hotel you will be staying in or from private transfer services providers . You can either book a private shuttle or a shared one.

The price for a shared shuttle transfer per person will cost around 40EUR.

The train ride from Geneva Airport to Chamonix can take anywhere from three to four hours, depending on the route you choose (either via Annemasse in France or via Martigny in Switzerland and then Vallorcine). There may be multiple connections and transfers, including some bus rides. Tickets for travel on the Swiss rail network can be more expensive if you don’t have a rail card (such as a half-price card, a network card, or a day pass). Keep this in mind when planning your trip.

You can book the train tickets on the Trainline website – the price varies depending on how early you book the ticket

France ‘s national coach service companies operate out of Geneva Airport and offer regular coach services to and from the airport. However, during busy periods, ski and hold baggage carriage may not be guaranteed. The journey to Chamonix , which takes between one hour and 35 minutes to one hour and 50 minutes, can be longer due to border controls and intermediate stops along the motorway. The final stop is at the bus station in Chamonix Sud, from where you will need to find your own way to your accommodation, either by walking or taking a local bus. Keep in mind that you will need to allow enough time for check-in and security when booking your departure time.

Busses can be booked via these 3 sites –

How to get to Chamonix via Lyon Airport

While it is possible to get to Chamonix from Lyon Airport, the journey is more complex and longer than going from Geneva Airport.

The two most straightforward options for getting to Chamonix from Lyon Airport are by bus or train.

The train ride from Lyon Airport to Chamonix typically takes around six hours and involves making a few train connections.

You can book tickets on Trainline website

The fastest option for getting from Lyon to Chamonix is by taking a direct bus, which takes approximately three hours.

You can check the times for buses at Rome2rio and The Trainline website.

How to get to Courmayeur via Turin & Milan Airports

There are several airports near Courmayeur that you can use as your point of arrival. The airports closest to Courmayeur are located in Turin (150 km), Milan Malpensa (212 km), and Milan Linate (235 km).

Courmayeur is connected to Turin and Milan by direct bus lines. All buses arrive and depart in Piazzale Monte Bianco in Courmayeur .

To get to Courmayeur by train, you can take a train from Turin or Milan to Aosta, and then transfer to the Aosta- Courmayeur line buses for the final leg of the journey.

What to expect on the trail

On the trail, you may encounter other hikers at various times of the day. In the morning, you can expect to see a lot more trekkers since they all tend to leave around the same time, with the number decreasing as the day goes on and approaches lunchtime. If you desire to avoid other hikers and have a more peaceful hike, it’s recommended to start your hike early around 7 am, or later in the day around 11 am. These times tend to have fewer hikers on the trails. Thou keep in mind the later you leave the larger chances you might encounter rain before your next stop.

Grocery stores

If you plan to camp and cook your own food for the duration of your hike, you’ll be glad to know that the trail passes through a few villages. This means that you don’t have to carry enough food for the entire hike, as you’ll have the opportunity to restock on supplies in these villages. This can be a convenient option if you don’t want to carry all of your food with you on the trail.

Villages where you can restock:

• Chamonix – Carrefour at 339 Rte Blanche, 74400 Chamonix -Mont-Blanc, France
• Les Houches – Carrefour at 32 Pl. de la Mairie, 74310 Les Houches , France
• Les Contamines – Carrefour  at 109 Rte de Notre Dame de la Gorge, 74170 Les Contamines -Montjoie, France
• Courmayour – Carrefour at Via Circonvallazione, 33, 11013 Courmayeur AO, Italy
• Champex – Edelweiss Market Champex -Lac at Rte du Lac 9, 1938 Champex -Lac , Switzerland

Trail marking

The Tour du Mont Blanc ( TMB ) is a well-marked trail, so it is relatively easy to follow. The trail is marked with painted markings (usually red and white) on rocks and trees, and there are also signposts along the way to help you stay on track. In addition, the route is well-known and well-traveled, so it is not difficult to find information or ask for help if you get lost or have any questions. That being said, it is always a good idea to carry a map and compass and to have some basic navigation skills when hiking, as conditions can change and markings can sometimes be hard to see.

Trail difficulty

While the Tour du Mont Blanc ( TMB ) may not require any rock climbing or traversing of large edges, it can still be a challenging hike due to the long hours of hiking, and constant ups and downs. The majority of the trail involves either climbing up or down, which can be physically demanding.

If you’re planning on completing the trail in nine days or less, it’s important to be in good physical shape, as it can be a challenging and physically demanding experience.

Every day, you’ll need to climb at least once about 3280.84 ft up and 3280.84 ft down, so it is essential to be prepared for that level of exertion.

If you’re not physically fit, it may be better to consider a longer timeframe for completing the TMB .

The weather in the mountains is a fickle thing. One moment can be sunshine next pouring thunderstorm. Thus you must be prepared for it.

It’s important to be prepared for any type of weather when planning a trip to the mountains, especially in the Alps .

Be sure to treat the mountains with respect and caution, even if the weather forecast looks good.

If you’re planning to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided, make sure you have a compass, map, and whistle, and know how to use them.

You should also check the weather regularly in the days leading up to your trip and set out early in the morning to avoid potential thunderstorms, which are more common in the Alps during July and August.

You can purchase water at every hut along the trail, and there are also plenty of mountain streams where you can safely refill your water bottles. These streams are a convenient and natural source of drinking water.

Accommodation

If camping is not your preferred accommodation option, you can choose to stay in the huts along the trail. These huts usually have bunk beds, although there may be a limited number of private rooms available at some locations. Most huts also have basic amenities such as toilets, showers (sometimes portable but sometimes full showers), and even kitchen facilities. If you’re interested in staying in a hut, it’s important to book your accommodation well in advance, at least six months before your trip, as these spots can fill up quickly.

I have compiled a list of both official and unofficial campsites that you can use for bivouacking during the trail. These campsites were selected based on their availability and convenience, as well as their accessibility to water and flat ground. When bivouacking, it’s important to pitch your tent before sunset and pack it up before sunrise to avoid any conflicts with other hikers or locals. Make sure to leave the place you find.

You can download the campsite map and their locations here.

Exit stages

If you need to end your hike earlier than planned for any reason, you can easily leave the trail from the following villages: Chamonix , Les Houches , Les Contamines , Courmayeur , Champex , and Le Tour. These villages are located along the trail and provide convenient access to transportation options that can help you continue your journey.

Packing list

If you plan to go self-guided trip you will need the following gear.

However, before leaving for the trip there are 2 essential questions you want to answer here yourself before deciding what you need to bring.

• How much money do you want to spend on the trail?
• How heavy of a backpack do you want to have?

Staying & eating in huts

If you decide to eat and sleep in the huts. You would only need to carry enough cash to cover hut fees and the bare minimum in terms of gear:

• Tshirts (3x)
• Long sleeve shirt
• Windbreaker
• Thermo pants (for sleeping)
• Trail runners or hiking boots
• Summer sleeping bag
• Water bottle / Hydration Bladder
• Guidebook – Cicerone or Andrew McCluggage (has all the maps you need)
• Walking poles
• Travel towel
• First aid kit

Backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 8kg in this case.

Staying in huts but cooking your own food

If you decide to rent just a bed and cook your own food. Then you will need the same as above plus:

• Cooking set
• Food for 3 days.

Backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 11kg.

If you’re planning on camping on this multi-day, then you’ll also need:

• Sleeping pad

The backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 13-15kg.

Additional things to take

• Insurance – Make sure your insurance includes helicopter transportation, in case you get injured when cars are not able to come and pick you up.
• Cash/Cards –Take enough cash to cover hut stays and your food if you are staying in them since most do not accept cards.
• Alpine Membership – If you plan to stay in the huts it is a good decision to invest in the Alpine Yearly Membership it slashes bed cost usually by half.

Our TMB 9-day trial itinerary (camping)

Tour du Mont Blanc in less than 10 days is a challenging hike that requires a significant physical effort, with long hours of trekking and limited opportunities for rest. Carrying your own backpack, tent, and food only adds to the difficulty. If you plan on embarking on this or a similar itinerary, it is essential to ensure that you are physically fit and prepared for the demands of the hike.

Day 1 – Les Houches – Campsite 1

• Distance – 4.4 mi
• Huts along the way – Col de Voza
• Constant climb up
• If possible camp at campsite 2 better ground and better access to water.
• Elevation Gain – 2801  ft
• Elevation Loss – 784  ft
• Difficulty – Difficult (being the first day)

Day 2 – Campsite 1 – Camp 4 (Near Ref De La Balme )

• Distance – 11 mi
• Huts along the way- Ref de Miage , Auberge de Truc
• You will have to climb 2 passes
• Horses at Ref de Miagem. They come to steal food.
• Free campsite near Ref, De La Balme
• Elevation Gain – 4317 ft
• Elevation Loss – 4130 ft
• Difficulty- Hard

Day 3 – Camp 4 (Near Ref, De La Balme ) – Camp 7 (Near Les Mottets )

• Distance – 7.76 mi
• Huts along the way –  Ref de la Croix
• What to be aware of – N/A
• Elevation Gain – 3576 ft
• Elevation Loss – 3021  ft
• Difficulty – Hard

Day 4 – Les Mottets – Camp 9 (Courmayour)

• Distance – 18 mi
• Huts along the way – Rif Eisabetta , Cab Combal , Rif Maison Vieille
• Two steep climbs and knee-breaking descent to Courmayeur
• Campsite 9 (unofficial) near the parking lot
• Elevation Gain – 5351 ft
• Elevation Loss – 6975  ft
• Difficulty – Very Hard

Day 5 – Camp 9 ( Courmayeur ) – Camp 11 ( La Fouly )

• Distance – 18,9 mi
• Huts along the way – Rif Bertone , Rif Bonatti , Chalet Val Ferret , La Peule , La Lechere
• What to be aware of – Two steep climbs
• Elevation Gain – 6013 ft
• Elevation Loss – 5311 ft

Day 6 – Camp 11 ( La Fouly ) –  Camp 13 ( Champex )

• Distance – 9.5 mi
• Huts along the way – N/A
• What to be aware of – An easy / rest hiking day
• Elevation Gain – 1692 ft
• Elevation Loss – 2076 ft
• Difficulty – Easy

Day 7 – Camp 13 ( Champex ) – Camp 14 (Ref Las Grands)

• Distance – 7.7 mi
• Huts along the way – Chalet du Glacier Buvette
• The one and only real mountain pass
• You will need to ask for permission to camp there
• Elevation Gain – 5761 ft
• Elevation Loss – 3622 ft

Day 8 – Camp 14 (Ref Las Grands) – Camp 15 ( Lac Blanc )

• Distance – 9.6 mi
• Huts along the way – Col de Balme , Tre le Champ (city with huts)
• What to be aware of – this stage has ladders to climb
• Elevation Gain – 3933 ft
• Elevation Loss – 3221 ft
• Difficulty- Moderate/Hard

Day 9 – Camp 15 ( Lac Blanc ) – Camp 16 (Les Bossons)

• Distance – 9.2 mi
• Huts along the way – Refuge La Flegere
• What to be aware of – Long climb down
• Elevation Gain – 318 ft
• Elevation Loss – 4724 ft

Traditional TMB 11-day trail itinerary/stages

Day 1 – Les Houches – Refuge de Miage – Les Contamines 

• Distance – 11.1 mi
• Hours hiking – 7h 30min
• Huts – Col de Voza (2H 30min), Chalets de Miage (5h), Truc (6h)
• Height Gain – 4849 ft
• Height Loss – 4324 ft
• Place to stay – Camping Pontet , Hotel Le Christiana , Chalet -Hotel Gai Soleil

Day 2 – Les Contamines – Col de la Croix du Bonhomme- Col des Fours – Refugio des Mottets

• Distance – 12.4 mi
• Hours Hiking – 8h
• Huts – Nan – Borrant (1h 30min), La Balme (2h 30min), Col de la Croix (5h)
• Elevation Gain – 4324 ft
• Elevation Loss – 3047 ft
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard
• Place to stay – Refugio des Motets

Day 3 – Les Motets – Rifugio Elisabetta

• Distance – 6.2 mi
• Hours hiked – 3h
• Huts – N/A
• Elevation Gain – 2043 ft
• Elevation Loss – 846 ft
• Place to stay – Rifugio Elisabetta

Day 4 – Rifugio Elisabetta – Courmayeur

• Huts – Lac Combal (45min), Col Checrouit (3h 45min), Val Veni (2h), Dolonne (5h)
• Elevation Gain – 1509 ft
• Elevation Loss – 5118 ft
• Difficulty- Easy/Moderate
• Place to stay – Hotel Triolet , Hotel Berthod , Maison La Saxe , Hotel Bouton d’Or

Day 5 – Courmayeur – Rifugio Bonatti

• Distance – 7.4 mi
• Hours Hiked – 4h 30min
• Huts -Le Pre (2h)
• Elevation Gain – 2821 ft
• Elevation Loss – 331 ft
• Place to stay – Rifugio Bonatti

Day 6 – Rifugio Bonatti – La Fouly

• Hours Hiked – 6h
• Huts – Arnuva (1h), Pre de Bar (2h), La Peule (4h 30min), La Lechere (5h 30min)
• Elevation Gain – 2936 ft
• Elevation Loss – 4625 ft
• Difficulty – Moderate
• Place to stay – CHALET en station de ski , Hotel Edelweiss , Camping

Day 7 – La Fouly – Champex

• Distance – 9.3 mi
• Hours Hiking – 4h
• Elevation Gain – 1377 ft
• Elevation Loss – 1853 ft
• Difficulty- Easy
• Place to stay –  Hotel Mont-Lac , Hotel Splendide , Camping

Day 8  – Champex – Fenetre d’Arpette – Col de La Forclaz

• Distance – 8.6 mi
• Hours Hiked – 6h 30min
• Elevation Loss – 3736 ft
• Place to stay – Hotel Col de la Forclaz

Day 9 – Col de la Forclaz – Col De Balme – Tre-le-Champ

• Distance – 8 mi
• Hours hiked – 5h 30min
• Huts – Le Peuty (30min), Col de Balme (3h)
• Elevation Gain – 3507 ft
• Elevation Loss – 3864 ft
• Place to stay – Auberge la Boerne

Day 10 – Tre-le-Champ – La Flegere

• Distance – 5.5 mi
• Elevation Gain – 2404 ft
• Elevation Loss – 843 ft
• Difficulty- Moderate
• Place to stay – Lac Blanc , La Flegere

Day 11 – La Flegere – Les Houches

• Distance – 10.5 mi
• Huts – Bellachat (4h)
• Elevation Gain – 2532 ft
• Elevation Loss – 5072 ft
• Place to stay – Les Chalets Elena , Chalet Hotel du Bois

Additional things to know

• Phone coverage is similar to other mountains, it’s available in some spots but not in others.
• Language – People will speak Italian , French , and reluctantly English.
• GPS – Might have patches where it goes awry.
• Apps/ Guidebooks /Maps
• Booking in advance
• Pick your toilet paper and don’t leave trash
• Lacs Jovets
• Take a dip in every stream/lake and pond
• Taste at least once every countries dish
• If you can extend your stay to 14 days will be a more relaxed and enjoyable hike
• Include a few rest days . 2 spots I would suggest Courmayeur a beautiful Italian village and a day at Lac Blanc with spectacular views of Mont Blanc .

Costs & prices

The cost of your Mont Blanc hiking trip will vary depending on your personal choices and preferences.

If you are looking to keep expenses low, opting for camping and cooking your own meals on the trail instead of staying in mountain huts and eating out can help keep costs down. Our 9-day itinerary, including flights and transportation to and from the region, cost around $350 per person.

On the other hand, if you prefer more comfortable accommodation and dining options, the cost of the trip can easily climb to $1000 and more.

Overall, the trail around Mont Blanc massif is a truly stunning hike that offers some of the most beautiful views in Europe . Well-marked and challenging, with a constant climb or descent, it is a great option for those looking for a demanding but non-technical hike. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, it’s definitely a trail worth experiencing.

Related posts

• 14 Hiking Essentials
• A Hikers Guide To Hiking Madeira
• Hiking From Mestia To Ushguli Guide
• Greece E4 Peloponnese Trail Guide
• The Ultimate Guide To Hiking Alta Via 1 in 6 Days
• Guide To Hiking Karwendel Hohenweg Trail Austria

I just could not depart your web site prior to suggesting that I really loved info.

[…] Ultimate Guide To Hiking TMB In 9 Days […]

Add comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

On Foot from France to Italy to Switzerland

Tour du mont blanc.

France, Italy, Switzerland

From $5,795

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Glacier-clad Mont Blanc, western Europe's highest peak, has seven major valleys radiating into France, Italy, and Switzerland and a fantastic array of ecosystems. A multi-day hike circling this entire massif crosses from one country to the next—on foot! The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the Great Hikes of the World, and we've honed this classic to perfection. Impeccably designed days bring you to epic glaciers, across wildflower-carpeted meadows, and into classic alpine hamlets as we explore each country's cultural and culinary delights. Overnights are in well-located cozy mountain hotels and hikers' inns, and our team of Trip Leaders brings a wonderful esprit to the adventure.

Arrive: Chamonix, France

Depart: Chamonix, France

• One of the world's classic hikes—and we do it right!
• Hike across three international borders on foot and enjoy magnificent mountain and glacier views
• Expert Trip Leaders on the trail, delicious mountain cuisines in each country
• Overnights in mountain villages with great charm and character

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $600 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of two Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders
• Accommodations in hotels and small inns
• All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from arrival until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Grand Hotel des Alpes

Chamonix, France

Day 1 (1 night)

Hotel La Chemenaz

Les Contamines, France

Day 2 (1 night)

Les Chambres du Soleil

Les Chapieux, France

Day 3 (1 night)

Alternate Accomodation: Hotel Autantic

Hotel Lo Scoiattolo: Courmayeur

Courmayeur, Italy

Days 4-5 (2 nights)

Alternate Accomodation: Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc

Hotel du Glacier

Champex, Switzerland

Day 6 (1 night)

Hotel du Col de la Forclaz

Trient, Switzerland

Day 7 (1 night)

Day 8 (1 night)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Killian Buckley

Heather Florence

Laurence Frison

Peter Hallewell

Katie L'Herpiniere

Simone Simpson

Mark Tennent

Stephan Renard

What the Trip is Like

• 2,700-3,000 feet gain/loss
• Altitudes range from 4,000-8,800 feet
• Day 3: 10 miles, 7-8 hours, 4,400 feet gain, and 3,200 loss; includes two passes

Client Testimonials

"We loved the trip—great itinerary, marvelous scenery, excellent food and drinks, and unparalleled service!"

Kenosha, WI

"From the surprise picnics to tasting grolla in the mountain hut, it was all wonderfully organized."

Chapmore Ends, England

"We have traveled with other tour companies in the past but Wilderness Travel is so far superior we will always use them!"

Pullman, WA

"I had an amazing time. Everything had been thought of and the trip ran perfectly. A tremendous and superb tour."

Wanaka, New Zealand

"Wonderful A+ trip. Well designed for trekking, very good hotels/auberges. We had a wonderful trip with a great group of guides who were professional, competent, and affable."

Berkeley, CA

"This trip would not have been half as amazing without our two amazing guides, Tania and Giuseppe. Their knowledge, professionalism, teamwork, and personal touches were beyond expectations. Thank you all for a memorable 50th birthday trip!"

Catherine R.

Sacramento, CA

"A great trip. I was ready to go back as soon as I got home."

Centennial, CO

"We had the time of our lives! I wouldn't have changed anything; I loved it all. Each guide was outstanding and we enjoyed all aspects of their knowledge and professionalism. Thanks for being so organized and awesome—you made it all so easy!"

Iron Ridge, WI

"This was the ninth trip I have done with WT. You continue to do a professional job that commands respect."

"The trip was great. It was hard work, but that was balanced out by great food and a comfortable bed at the end of the day! All the hotels were good."

Chevy Chase, MD

"This trip far exceeded any expectations I had! I felt so well taken care of the entire time. It was such an amazing experience that I will never forget. I am truly grateful for the guides and my fellow hikers."

Rock Hill, SC

"I had an amazing experience! I would definitely travel with WT again."

Thousand Oaks, CA

"We could not have imagined a better honeymoon. From sweeping views of valleys/mountains to sweet accommodations to singing guides, this trip had everything we were looking for. We definitely worked hard to earn our views, and were always greeted by the Mont Blanc Massif. Thank you for your coordination, planning, and celebration of this special time in our life!"

"Challenging hike with gorgeous scenery, well organized, a nice variety of accomodations and food, great guides! Perfect in every way!"

Los Gatos, CA

"I loved exploring the unique villages and variety of hotels. Food was outstanding (as was the wine)!"

Mary Kay S.

Oak Park, IL

"I had so much fun. This trip truly was better than I expected...and I had high expectations coming in."

New York, NY

"What an amazing trip! The scenery, the trails, the food, the guides—all were incredible. I just got home and I want to go back!"

"Trip of a lifetime. Amazing, amazing! The guides are what made the trip fantastic, and of course, Mt. Blanc was beautiful at every turn. I found myself saying ‘wow’ almost every fifteen minutes the whole trip. The food was fantastic as well. Lovely wines and desserts. We will be talking about this trip for a long, long time."

Meredith B.

Raleigh, NC

"We really enjoyed this tour. The route was excellent as was the level of activity, and the guides added to our overall enjoyment of the adventure. The location of the tour was the ultimate part of the experience."

Michelle E.

Lafayette, CA

"A once-in-a-lifetime experience where the beauty of the mountains, the quality of the food/lodging, and the hiking challenges were just magnificent."

"Wilderness Travel and their personnel were able to allow me to experience the Alps and Mont Blanc in many ways—the rugged hikes, beautiful views everywhere, the people, and the food."

Missoula, MT

"We had a blast and enjoyed all aspects of our trip. The hiking was incredible, scenery spectacular, food and wine amazing!"

Ketchum, ID

"The trip was incredible, The scenery was fantastic (helped by good fortune with the weather), our lodging along the way was quite good, and the interaction of the hikers and the guides was interactive and stimulating."

"This was a trip of a lifetime for me. The scenery was truly mind-blowing. The hikes were certainly challenging and facing big elevation changes every day was tough but I loved every minute of this trip. I felt totally immersed in nature and the vistas were breathtaking. I would recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys hiking; I can’t imagine any place more beautiful than this."

"This trip was a highlight of my life. I'm already planning the next one!"

Calgary, Alberta

"The guide team was outstanding—professional, knowledgeable, and lots of fun. It was clear that they loved what they did and worked very well together to make sure that we had an amazing Tour du Mont Blanc experience. Thank you for an amazing vacation!"

Manhattan Beach, CA

"Our guides were excellent and made the trip a 20 on a 10 scale! I'm very eager to take another trip with Wilderness Travel after this experience."

"This trip exceeded our hopes and expectations. We had a fabulous time!"

Other Trips You Might Like

Small Group Adventure

Hiking Switzerland’s Via Alpina

Switzerland

From $7,295

Hiking the Haute Route

France, Switzerland

From $5,595

Mont Blanc to the Mediterranean

From $7,395

Ultimate Haute Route

From $6,995

Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

Trip Download Itin

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

TMB – w 8 dni dookoła masywu Mont Blanc

Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) to jedna z najpopularnieszych długodystansowych tras trekkingowych w Europie, nierzadko pojawiająca się w zestawieniach i rankingach najpiękniejszych szlaków na świecie. Okrążając masyw Mont Blanc, przechodzi się przez Francję, Włochy i Szwajcarię, pokonując łącznie około 170 kilometrów i 10 000 metrów przewyższenia. Według oficjalnych wytycznych przebycie całej trasy zajmuje 11 dni. Wędrówka nie wymaga umiejętności technicznych i myślę, że każdy znajdzie tu coś dla siebie, bez względu na zasobność portfela czy kondycję fizyczną. Spać bowiem można albo pod namiotem, dźwigając swój dom i jedzenie, albo w wygodnych schroniskach z „królewskimi”, jak na górskie standardy, wygodami. Choć już podstawowy wariant trasy potrafi dać nogom w kość, a oczy nacieszyć fantastyczną scenerią i wyjątkowymi widokami, na trasie znajduje się wiele trudniejszych, niekiedy jeszcze bardziej widowiskowych alternatyw. Możliwości jest zatem wiele.

Nawet nie pamiętam, jak i kiedy wpadłam na pomysł, aby przejść TMB. Gdzieś przypadkiem zobaczyłam opis wraz ze zdjęciami trasy i natychmiast uznałam, że to świetny pomysł na spędzenie wakacji. Góry, spanie pod namiotem i ja – brzmiało, jak plan idealny. Problem był taki, że nigdy wcześniej nie przeszłam po górach nawet dnia z ciężkim plecakiem. Z reguły albo wybieram się na lekko, albo ciężary dźwiga… Michał. Ale na zmartwienia jeszcze będzie czas. Jak to mawiał mój kolega: „Niech Marta z przyszłości się martwi”. 

Przygotowania

Chciałabym móc kiedyś powiedzieć, że jeśli chodzi o przygotowania, to zmądrzałam i planuję wszystko z odpowiednim zapasem. Niestety, to jeszcze nie jest czas na takie poważne oświadczenia. Choć chęci z początku miałam szczere, to sentencja, którą zobaczyłam w Internecie, zupełnie odciągnęła mnie od tego pomysłu: „Podczas TMB przechodzi się przez wioski / campingi […] teoretycznie nie można spać na dziko. W praktyce –  można, jeśli nie zostawiasz po sobie bałaganu i wstajesz odpowiednio wcześnie” . Nic więcej nie potrzebowałam wiedzieć.

Mimo wszystko, z racji tego, że chciałam zorganizować tę wyprawę jak najbardziej budżetowo i możliwie „na dziko”, by móc poczuć naturę bardziej, a prawdziwie campingowe życie było mi dotąd obce, konieczne było kupienie kilku niezbędników, takich jak: palnik, kuchenka turystyczna, menażka czy liofilizowane jedzenie. Dodatkowo, niewygodną (jak sprawdziłam kilka tygodni wcześniej) karimatę zastąpiłam matą samopompującą. Jest ona cięższa niż zwykła karimata, jednak dla takiego miłośnika spańska jak ja, komfort snu jest ważniejszy niż dodatkowe kilkaset gram. Powtarzam, Marta z przyszłości może się martwić, ale nie może się nie wyspać. 

Pakując wszystko to, co przygotowałam, naszły mnie dwie myśli: Po pierwsze, jak ja to wszystko zmieszczę? A po drugie, jeśli już zmieszczę, jak to wszystko udźwignę? Zaczęłam więc analizować każdą rzecz po kolei i pakować tylko to, co naprawdę, ale to naprawdę niezbędne. Koniec końców, dzień zamknęłam z całkiem sensownie wypchanym plecakiem, pełnym nie ubrań, a sprzętu turystycznego i jedzenia. 

Droga do Francji

Oficjalny punkt startu to Les Houches we Francji, choć, jako że TMB to pętla, zacząć można w dowolnym miejscu. Z Monachium jedzie się tam około 6-7 godzin. Nasz plan zakładał rozpoczęcie wędrówki z samego rana, dlatego wyjechać trzeba było jeszcze w nocy. Zanim dojechaliśmy i przygotowaliśmy się do wymarszu, było już po 10. To dość późno na wyruszanie w góry, ale z pewnością nie za późno na zaczynanie przygody!

Dzień 1: Les Houches – Les Contamines – Camping le Pontet

Dystans: 21,35 km, przewyższenia: ⭡985 m ⭣650 m Najwyższy punkt: Col de Voza 1 657 m n.p.m.

Stojąc nieopodal domu przy 446 Rue de Bellevue w Les Houches, kawałek za oficjalnym startem, rozpoczynamy trekking. Plecak ciąży od samego początku i na tę chwilę w ogóle nie wyobrażam sobie, w jaki sposób dam radę przejść całą trasę. Ten dzień uważany jest za dość łatwy, dobry na rozruszanie i start. Kilometrów miało być 16, a podejść 600 metrów. Było więcej, także ktoś nas tu nieźle oszukał. Dodatkowo niewyspanie po długiej podróży, wciskające się w ramiona kilogramy rzeczy i asfaltowa droga sprawiają, że każdy kilometr jest cięższy od poprzedniego. Męczarnia. Za nic nie określiłabym tego dnia, jako „dość łatwy”. Określiłabym go raczej jako „dość bardzo ciężki”. Ale piękny. Odsłonięty masyw Mont Blanc i otulona słońcem dolina Chamonix zachwycają i sprawiają, że mimo trudu człowiek idzie. Poza tym, umówimy się – im ciężej, tym więcej satysfakcji. W Les Contamines robimy zakupy i mozolnie wędrujemy w stronę campingu. Ten, mimo że darmowy, jest bardzo przyzwoity – z ciepłą wodą pod prysznicem i stolikami ułatwiającymi przygotowanie posiłku. Na koniec dnia cudownie jest rzucić plecak na ziemię, górskie buty zamienić na wygodne klapki, zjeść liofilizowany obiad i zasnąć. 

Dzień 2: Camping le Pontet – Les Chapieux

Dystans: 19,24 km, przewyższenia: ⭡1305 m ⭣905 m  Najwyższy punkt: Col de la Croix du Bonhomme 2483 m n.p.m.

Ciężko zwlec się z maty, dlatego na szlak wyruszamy dopiero po 10. Normalnie stresowałabym się, że to już za późno, ale mamy cały dzień, nigdzie nam się nie spieszy, a pogoda dopisuje. Ponieważ ma to być jeden z najcięższych dni na trasie, z dużą sumą przewyższeń, jeszcze przed wyruszeniem uznałam, że trzeba obrać odpowiednią strategię. Mianowicie, za każde 200 m przewyższenia – cukierek w nagrodę*.

Na starcie wita nas długie i strome podejście. Nie jest ono trudne technicznie, jest tak po prostu trudne i męczące. Plecy jeszcze nie przyzwyczaiły się do ciężarów, które dźwigają, więc każda chwila przerwy jest wytchnieniem. Nawet ta w pełnym słońcu, bo szybko wychodzi się poza linię drzew i miły cień znika. To co widzimy, rekompensuje jednak cały trud. Otoczeni majestatem gór, z widokiem na położone w oddali jezioro, kroczymy w górę. Idąc po kamienistej, wysokogórskiej ścieżce, dochodzimy do schroniska Col de la Croix du Bonhomme . Jest godzina 16, a nas czeka jeszcze strome i długie zejście do doliny. Szybko więc uzupełniamy energię i ruszamy dalej. Po drugiej stronie gór widoki są inne – przypominają one bardziej łagodne pagórki, aniżeli strome skały. Mimo wszystko prezentują się równie pięknie i równie ciekawie. W takim towarzystwie sukcesywnie, choć bardzo mozolnie, schodzimy.

Dzisiejszy camping jest usytuowany wyjątkowo – otaczają go strzeliste góry, a zachodzące słońce dodaje uroku i koloru. Tutaj czekają na nas także smakowite dania w pobliskiej restauracji oraz lodowata woda w kranie. Prysznic nie czeka. Cóż, natura nie znosi próżni, nie można mieć wiec wszystkiego.

* Sprawdzało się to tak dobrze, że pomysł ten został z nami do końca wyprawy. 

Dzień 3: Les Chapieux – Val Veni – Camping Aiguille-Noire 

Dystans: 25,49 km, przewyższenia: ⭡1095 m ⭣1200 m Najwyższy punkt: Col de la Seigne 2516 m n.p.m.

Poranek rozpoczynamy standardowo – od kuskusu z owocami i kawy, planując trasę. Dziś łączymy dwa oficjalne dni. Nasze nogi powoli przyzwyczają się do pokonywanych dystansów. Także plecak nie wydaje się już tak ciężki jak wcześniej i niekiedy pozwala o sobie zapomnieć. Pierwsze godziny mijają więc w przyjemnej atmosferze. Przed głównym podejściem, przy Refuge Des Mottets , robimy sobie przerwę, zajadając się świeżymi francuskimi bagietkami z białym serem. To dobra odskocznia od naszej standardowej opcji, czyli snickersów. Siły przed głównym podejściem są mile widziane, jednak leżaki przy schronisku oraz wstające słońce rozleniwiają. Mimo to trzeba ruszać dalej. Podejście samo w sobie nie jest trudne. Wręcz przeciwnie – jest przyjemne i łagodne. Na przełęczy Col de la Seigne przekraczamy granicę francusko-włoską, witając się z nowymi, wyjątkowymi widokami. Przez całe zejście towarzyszą nam: po lewej stronie skaliste, postrzępione góry, a po prawej poziomoleżące warstwy skalne. Ten dzień zachwyca również pod względem kolorów – zielona trawa, fioletowe kwiatki, błękitne jeziora i nieskalanie kobaltowe niebo. A wszystko to rozświetlone promieniami słońca, dodające magii całemu otoczeniu. To zdecydowanie jeden z piękniejszych dni. I to jest dokładnie ta alpejskość, która mnie zawsze zachwyca i po którą ciągle wracam. Pod koniec dnia maszerujemy alternatywną trasą przez dolinę Val Veni , docierając do kempingu Aiguille-Noire, niedaleko Courmayeur .

Dzień 4: Camping Aiguille-Noire – Courmayeur – Rifugio Bonatti

Dystans: 22,50 km, przewyższenia: ⭡1510 m ⭣1010 m Najwyższy punkt: 2068 m n.p.m.

Dzień wcześniej, obierając trasę alternatywną, ominęło się nas jedno podejście, które dzisiaj trzeba nam nadrobić, aby z powrotem wrócić na główny szlak TBM i dostać się do Courmayeur . Jakoś to idzie, choć trasę gubimy przynajmniej ze dwa razy. Docierając do centrum miasteczka, widząc wypoczywających turystów, nie możemy odmówić sobie przerwy na włoską kawę i desery lodowe. W końcu jesteśmy na letnich wakacjach! I działa to na nas magicznie. Wyjątkowa siła wstępuje w nasze zmęczone nogi, dodając energii za trzech. Kolejne podejście, aż do Rifugio Bertone , pokonujemy więc w zadziwiająco szybkim tempie. Wszystko się układa. Nawet pogoda jest tego dnia całkiem łaskawa – tylko przez moment lekko kropi, choć według prognozy powinno lać cały dzień. Koniec wędrówki prowadzi zboczem Mont de la Saxe. Z lewej strony roztacza się widok na Mont Blanc, Aiguille Noire, Grandes Jorasses i spektakularne lodowce. W takim towarzystwie docieramy do Rifugio Bonatti , w którym zostajemy na noc, ze względu na dość nieciekawą prognozę pogody i to, że bardzo, ale to bardzo nie chce nam się schodzić kilkaset metrów do kempingu. W schronisku czeka na nas ciepło, wygodne łóżka i 3-daniowa kolacja. Mimo wszystko takie warunki są dla mnie mniej komfortowe niż te pod namiotem. Spanie między obcymi ludźmi, wspólne stołowanie się i wymiana uprzejmości, a potem podtrzymywanie rozmowy to nie jest to, co lubię. Nie jest też tym, czego szukam będąc w górach. 

Dzień 5: Rifugio Bonatti – La Fouly

Dystans: 22,68 km, przewyższenia: ⭡955 m ⭣1380 m Najwyższy punkt: przełęcz Grand Col Ferret 2537 m n.p.m

Ten dzień podzielić można na trzy etapy: zejście do doliny Val Ferret , podejście na przełęcz Grand Col Ferret , granicę włosko-szwajcarską, z przerwą na ostatnią włoską kawę w Rifugio Elena oraz zejście pastwiskami do La Fouly . Przez większość wędrówki, jak w zasadzie każdego dnia, towarzyszą nam opowieści o Wiedźminie, co sprawia, że idzie się bardzo przyjemnie. Docieramy do przełęczy Grand Col Ferret. Widok, który się stąd rozpościera, jest przepiękny, jednak wysokość i wiatr robią swoje. Szybkie zdjęcie, to telefonem i w głowie, i schodzimy. Już szwajcarską drogą. Dalsza część trasy wiedzie przez malownicze, zielone pastwiska aż do farmy mleczarskiej La Peule. Michał mówi, że to tu zjadł najlepszą kanapkę podczas całej wyprawy – taką na bogato, wypchaną masą szynki i sera. Tak, trochę luksusu zdecydowanie nie zaszkodzi. 

Dziś nocujemy w Camping des Glaciers, u podnóża lodowca de l’A Neuve. To wyjątkowy kamping, z wieloma wygodami, jak przystało na Szwajcarię.

Dzień 6: La Fouly – Champex – Col de la Forclaz – Camping de I’Arpille

Dystans: 32,50 km, przewyższenia: ⭡1310 m ⭣1360 m Najwyższy punkt: Collet Portalo 2040 m n.p.m.

Spanie nieopodal lodowca ma pewnie minusy – strasznie się marznie w nocy, co w połączeniu z kilkudniowym niewyspaniem zaowocowało u mnie małym kryzysem. Na samą myśl, że czeka mnie dzisiaj znów spanie pod namiotem, zimno i niewygoda, okropecznie mi się nie chce. Ewidentnie trzeba rozchodzić taki nastrój. 

Dziś znów łączymy dwa oficjalne dni, chcąc wykorzystać w pełni idealną pogodę. Pierwsza część trasy to dość łatwy szlak, bez rewelacyjnych widoków, choć przez szwajcarskie wioski. A szwajcarskie wioski to nie byle jakie wioski! Szwajcarskie wioski to domki z kwiatami w kolorowych okiennicach i zielone pastwiska. Alpy pełną gębą! Oficjalny pierwszy dzień pokonujemy w zaledwie 4 godziny, docierając do Champex , miejscowości położonej nad malowniczym jeziorem Lac de Champex . Choć czeka nas jeszcze długi dzień i sporo do przejścia, nie zapominamy, że jesteśmy na wakacjach. Nie skorzystanie z takiej pogody i miejsca, w jakim się znajdujemy, było by niewybaczalne. Przerwa na piwko nad wodą jest więc obowiązkowa.

Od Champex trasa prowadzi przez wioski i lasy, aż do Alp Bovine , czyli mleczarskiej farmy z widokiem na miasto Martigny w dolinie Rhône i Alpy Berneńskie. Z takimi widokami można jeść nawet suche bułki! I siedzieć, i wpatrywać się w te widoki godzinami. Niestety chcieć to nie zawsze móc – czas nas tym razem nagli. Przed nami długie i nużące zejście. Początkowy pomysł, by rozbić się gdzieś na dziko, odpuszczamy i decydujemy się iść do końca, ile sił w nogach, do Col de la Forclaz . Niepozorny i niewielki Camping de I’Arpille wynagradza nam trudy dzisiejszego dnia, zwłaszcza ostatnich kilku kilometrów, kiedy to bolał każdy krok. Pierwszy raz od dawna mamy do dyspozycji nieograniczoną ilość ciepłej wody pod zabudowanym prysznicem. Luksus o jakim nawet nie marzyłam, zdecydowanie przebijający kanapkę Michała.

Dzień 7: Camping de I’Arpille – Tre-la-Champ – Tête aux Vents

Dystans: 20,80 km, przewyższenia: ⭡1655 m ⭣1205 m Najwyższy punkt: Col de Balme 2191 m n.p.m.

Wyspani, wygrzani, ale też niezregenerowani po wczorajszym wysiłku, szybko przygotowujemy śniadanie i ruszamy. Schodzimy do Le Peuty . Powoli kończą nam się zapasy przekąsek, a po drodze nie możemy znaleźć żadnego sklepu. Dodatkowo, prognoza pogody jest martwiąca, choć deszcz jeszcze do nas nie dotarł. Postanawiamy, mimo mojego ewidentnego braku sił, iść w miarę szybko. „Każdy ma swój Everest, Marta”, powtarzam sobie w głowie.

Pierwsze dzisiejsze podejście jest dość łagodne, a jego znaczna część prowadzi przez las. Na przełęczy Col de Balme , granicy szwajcarsko-francuskiej, robimy sobie przerwę, rozsądnie wydając ostatnie 22 franki szwajcarskie na obiad i brownie. Taka chwila odpoczynku bardzo pomaga i przywraca siły. Tuż za przełęczą wyłania się niesamowita panorama doliny Vallée de l’Arve i ośnieżonego masywu Mont Blanc. Po pewnym czasie da się również zauważyć lodowiec Glacier du Tour. Tak, lodowce to coś, co w szczególności będę kojarzyć z tą wyprawą. Zasłuchani w audiobooku, podziwiając widoki, zupełnie nie skupiamy się na oznaczeniach, przez co kilka razy gubimy szlak.

Co jakiś czas sprawdzamy prognozę pogody, która przewiduje 3 dni nieprzerwanych opadów, w nadziei, że coś się zmieni. Niestety nie zmienia się. Niepewnie porzucamy nasz pierwotny plan, aby rozbić się na campingu w Tre-la-Champ , decydując się iść tak daleko, jak tylko nogi i niepewna pogoda pozwolą. Tak, aby już jutro skończyć wyprawę. Mimo początkowych wątpliwości związanych ze spaniem na dziko, odwagi dodaje nam grupa Czechów, wędrująca z psem border collie, którzy mają dokładnie taki sam plan. Cóż, może to nierozsądne, ale za tak pięknym psem mogę iść wszędzie! Nawet w deszczu. W momencie, kiedy pogoda zaczyna się pogarszać, a nasze zmęczenie narastać, przed nami jeden z najtrudniejszych technicznie etapów całej wędrówki – kamieniste podejście, usiane drabinami i poręczami. Nie jest ono trudne, ale porównując z poprzednimi etapami, z pewnością najtrudniejsze i niejednemu może przyśpieszyć lekko serce. Nam o dziwo sprawia ono całkiem sporą przyjemność. Pokonując trudności, dochodzimy do Tête aux Vents i kawałek dalej znajdujemy idealną na rozbicie się polanę – blisko strumyka, całkiem płaską, z przepiękną panoramą. Muszę przyznać, że podczas tej wyprawy pogoda jest dla nas bardzo łaskawa – lać zaczyna tuż po rozłożeniu przez nas namiotu. 

Dzień 8: Tête aux Vents – Le Brévent – Les Houches

Dystans: 23,90 km, przewyższenia: ⭡965 m ⭣1880 m Najwyższy punkt: Le Brévent 2525 m n.p.m.

Noc była ciężka – lało, wiało, chłód był niesamowity. Spaliśmy w końcu na 1900 metrach. Do tego było wyjątkowo niewygodnie. Pewna zauważalna rutyna we wszystkich tych dniach zaczyna już trochę irytować – składanie mokrego namiotu, szykowanie śniadania, pakowanie sprzętów, żeby wieczorem wszystko znów wyłożyć i rozłożyć. Powoli tęskno mi za normalnym łóżkiem i smacznym obiadem. Na szczęście to wszystko już na nas czeka. Wystarczy tylko trochę podejść i dużo zejść. 

Po całej nocy silnych opadów spodziewam się mgły i zerowej widoczności. Nawet deszcz by mnie nie zdziwił. Jednak to, co ukazuje się nam zaraz po otwarciu namiotu jest zjawiskowe – wstające słońce oświetlające masyw Mont Blanc. Taki krajobraz szybko rozwiewa poranne rozterki. I w takiej też scenerii zaczynamy nasz ostatni dzień trekkingu. 

Tego dnia maszerujemy jednym z najpiękniejszych alpejskich szlaków – Grand Balcon Sud – prowadzącym przez północne zbocza doliny Vallée de l’Arve i dającym możliwość nieprzerwanej obserwacji masywu górskiego Mont Blanc. W dole Chamonix , całe we mgle. Widokowo jest to zdecydowanie najpiękniejszy dzień. Najpiękniejszy i, jak się później okaże, najbardziej męczący. Z racji tego, że dzień wcześniej nie zrobiliśmy zakupów, a nasze zapasy praktycznie się skończyły, w schronisku La Flégère przysiadamy na śniadanie. Dość proste i bardzo podstawowe, ale jak człowiek ma do wyboru całe nic, albo coś – wybiera coś. Następnie czeka nas lekkie zeście, płaskie przejście, aż docieramy do ostatniego podejścia podczas naszego trekingu. Kierujemy się w stronę przełęczy Col du Brévent . Dalsza trasa wiedzie przez labirynt głazów, wśród których drogę wskazują namalowane na nich żółtawe kropki. Gdzieniegdzie napotykamy drabiny. Docieramy do szczytu Le Brevent – pierwszego i jedynego szczytu, który zdobyliśmy podczas całej wyprawy. Niestety dokładnie w tym momencie widoczność diabli wzięli. Pogarsza się też pogoda, więc nie zabawiając długo na szczycie, zaczynamy zejście. Początkowo schodzi się po dość prostym, skalistym terenie. Mijamy schronisko Refuge de Bellachat , którego położenie pozwala na obserwację całej panoramy masywu Mont Blanc. Oczywiście wtedy, kiedy nie ma mgły. Zaraz za schroniskiem zaczynamy schodzić zygzakami, w stromym terenie, częściowo przez las. Po drodze pokonujemy krótką sekcję łańcuchów i metalowych poręczy. Stopy bolą niemiłosiernie od tego bezustannego 1500-metrowego zejścia, które zabija we mnie na moment emocje. Wyłączam się i idę jak robot, bez refleksji, bez wsłuchiwania się w grający w uszach audiobook. Kończąc wyprawę, przechodzimy przez całą miejscowość Les Houches , docierając do miejsca, z którego wyruszyliśmy 8 dni wcześniej.

Głodni, zmęczeni, ale bardzo szczęśliwi, przegryzając francuską bagietkę w jednym z niewielu otartych barów, planujemy podróż powrotną do Monachium. 

W ciągu 8 dni przeszłam 190 kilometrów, odwiedzając 3 kraje (Francję, Włochy, Szwajcarię) i pokonując 10 000 m przewyższenia. Najwyżej byłam na wysokości 2537 m n.p.m (przełęcz Grand Col Ferret). Zjadłam tonę cukierków w nagrodę za każde 200 metrów podejścia. Przesłuchałam około 35 godzin opowiadań o Wiedźminie. Zdobyłam 1 szczyt (Le Brevent). Zaliczyłam 1 upadek i zdarłam sobie 1 nogę. A po powrocie przespałam 2 dni, w ramach odpoczynku i regeneracji. Dorzuciłabym do tego jeszcze kilkaset punktów za satysfakcję i masę za zadowolenie. To z pewnością nieostatnie tego typu wakacje. 

Tworzę wspomnienia chodząc po górach. A potem je spisuję.

You May Also Like

Szlak GR221 – pieszo przez Majorkę

Trekking do bazy pod Everestem

7 thoughts on “tmb – w 8 dni dookoła masywu mont blanc”.

Jeszcze całości nie czytaliśmy, ale już fragmenty opisu i pobieżnie oglądane zdjęcia zapowiadają wspaniałe doznania estetyczne. Według mnie to „wyprawa życia”, świetny pomysł. Tylko pozazdrościć, ale do tego trzeba być młodym i w miarę silnym. My to już mamy za sobą, ale chociaż możemy się cieszyć Waszym szczęściem. Pozdrawiamy.

Przestudiowałem już całość i rzeczywiście były to przyjemne chwile. Zdjęcia wspaniałe, opisy trasy wystarczające, lecz trochę za mało zdjęć osobistych obrazujących wasze nastroje. Brakuje mi również uproszczonej mapki waszej trasy dla pełniejszego wyobrażenia skali trudności. Planuję jeszcze polatać w „Condorze” po okolicach tej trasy aby z lotu ptaka podziwiać to co widzieliście w realu. W Google Earth już to oglądałem bez dokładnego przebiegu trasy marszu. Pozdrawiam i życzę następnych ciekawych wypraw.

Dziękuję za kolejną fascynującą opowieść! Pozwala mi ona bardzo dobrze wyobrazić sobie Waszą piękną, ale i wymagającą kondycji i hartu ducha wyprawę. Zdjęcia, jak zapewne same widoki, zapierają dech w piersiach. Ale i tak najbardziej podoba mi się to ostatnie:)

Hej, Chciałbym się wybrać pod koniec lipca na ten wyjazd, czy mogłabyś podpowiedzieć jaką kuchenkę turystyczną mieliście, jaką miałaś pojemność plecaka oraz jaki system nawadniający stosujecie? Relacja rewelacyjna!

Hej Tomku, trzymam kciuki za Twoją lipcową wyprawę! 🙂

Jeśli chodzi o nasz sprzęt, to: – kuchenka: LINK – zestaw naczyń: LINK – kartusz: LINK Zestaw naczyń sprawdził się nam bardzo dobrze – jest lekki, wystarczający dla dwóch osób, wszystko się da sprytnie zapakować. Lekka kuchenka niewielkich rozmiarów dawała radę, nawet na niestabilnym podłożu, choć czasami mieliśmy wątpliwości co do tej stabilności. Nie będzie z nią problemów na campingach, bo tam zawsze znajdzie się jakiś stolik, natomiast jeśli planujesz częściej spać na dziko, to osobiście rozejrzałabym się za czymś z szerszą/stabilniejszą podstawą. Kartusz 230g w zupełności nam wystarczył (gotowaliśmy 2x dziennie) – nawodnienie: każde z nas miało 2-litrowy bukłak (dostępny w decathlon: LINK ), do tego 1 niewielki termos na kawę/herbatę. Na trasie nie ma problemów z uzupełnianiem wody. – plecaki: 45l oraz 70l

Hej hej! świetna relacja! Wybieramy się ze znajomymi w lipcu na TMB – czy możesz przekazać nam kilka praktycznych porad? Chodzi dokładnie o ilośc ubrania, jakie ze sobą zabieraliście? Czy skarpetki/koszulki zabieraliście na każdy dzień? Czy polecacie wziąć ze sobą oprócz przeciwdeszczowej kurtki jakąś puchówkę? Pozdrawiam! 🙂

Hej, dzięki 🙂 Jeśli chodzi o ubrania, to w naszym plecaku stanowiły one chyba najmniejszą cześć naszego wyposażenia. Z najważniejszych rzeczy: – ubrania: na 8 dni trekkingu miałam 3 bluzki na krótki rękaw, 1 bluzka na długi, 2x spodenki i 1x spodnie. Do tego bluza i kurtka przeciwdeszczowa. Na camping: puchówka i bielizna termoaktywna (nam były potrzebne, szczególnie w nocy, bo mieliśmy zbyt lekkie śpiwory). – bielizna: też miałam jej znacznie mniej niż dni, ale na campingu można spokojnie ją sobie przeprać. Stawiałabym na jakoś, nie na ilość, tym bardziej, że nieodpowiednie skarpetki potrafią nieźle poobcierać stopy. Na długie trekkingi super się sprawdza bielizna z dodatkiem merino. Poza tym, warto mieć wydzieloną bieliznę tylko do spania: brudne skarpetki nie izolują ciepła tak dobrze, jak czyste 😄 – inne: ciepła czapka, czapka z daszkiem i chusta buff

To chyba byłoby wszystko 🙂

Przyjemnego tuptania wokół Mont Blanc!

Dodaj komentarz Anuluj pisanie odpowiedzi

Twój adres e-mail nie zostanie opublikowany. Wymagane pola są oznaczone *

Komentarz *

Witryna internetowa

Zapisz moje dane, adres e-mail i witrynę w przeglądarce aby wypełnić dane podczas pisania kolejnych komentarzy.

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. 

wydarzenia w Warszawie

Korzystasz z Internet Explorera 8 (lub starszego...)! W związku z tym: - ta strona będzie prawdopodobnie wyświetlać się nieprawidłowo, - najwyższy czas na aktualizację lub zmianę przeglądarki! ;)

Tour du Mont Blanc – z namiotem wokół Dachu Europy

Zgłoś błąd/zmianę w wydarzeniu [X]

Napisz nam, co jest do zmiany:

Podaj swój adres e-mail:

Przepisz (bez spacji) drugą i czwartą cyfrę z poniższych: (zabezpieczenie przed botami) 6  4  4  1 -

Zaznacz zgodę: zgadzam się na przetwarzanie wyżej podanych danych, w celach kontaktowych

Twoje dane będą przetwarzane wyłącznie w celach, dla których nam je udostępniłaś/udostępniłeś. W każdej chwili będziesz mogła/mógł uzyskać dostęp do swoich danych, poprawić je lub usunąć. Podanie danych jest dobrowolne, ale niezbędne do realizacji ww. celu. Administratorem podanych przez Ciebie danych osobowych będzie 43MEDIA (NIP 1132613119). Więcej informacji na ten temat znajdziesz w polityce prywatności i cookies pod adresem waw4free.pl/cookies.

Zgłoś to wydarzenie [X]

Zaznacz jedno z poniższych:

a jeśli chcesz, napisz więcej - na czym polega problem z tym ogłoszeniem:

Przepisz (bez spacji) drugą i czwartą cyfrę z poniższych: (zabezpieczenie przed botami) 4  7  4  3 -

Inne wydarzenia / informacje / polecane miejsca w Warszawie

Connectez-vous ou créez un compte

Pour pouvoir enregistrer un article, un compte est nécessaire.

• Annecy / Rumilly / Les Aravis
• Annonay / Nord Ardèche
• Aubenas / Privas / Vallée du Rhône
• Bourgoin-Jallieu / Nord-Dauphiné
• Chambéry / Aix-les-Bains
• Edition Provençale
• Grand Genève / Chablais / Ain
• Grenoble / Agglomération
• Grésivaudan / Oisans
• Hautes-Alpes / Alpes de Haute-Provence
• La Tour-du-Pin / Nord-Dauphiné
• Mont-Blanc / Arve
• Montélimar / Drôme Provençale
• Romans / Nord Drôme
• Tarentaise / Maurienne
• Valence / Rhône Crussol / Vallée de la Drôme
• Vienne / Roussillon
• Voiron / Saint-Marcellin
• Newsletters
• Libra Memoria

Edition du Soir Isère

ven. 05/07/2024

• Activer JavaScript dans votre navigateur pour accéder à l'inscription sur notre site

Si vous voyez ce champ, ne le remplissez pas

Le Dauphiné Libéré, en tant que responsable de traitement, recueille dans ce formulaire des informations qui sont enregistrées dans un fichier informatisé par son Service Relations Clients, la finalité étant d’assurer la création et la gestion de votre compte, ainsi que des abonnements et autres services souscrits. Si vous y avez consenti, ces données peuvent également être utilisées pour l’envoi de newsletters et/ou d’offres promotionnelles par Le Dauphiné Libéré, les sociétés qui lui sont affiliées et/ou ses partenaires commerciaux. Vous pouvez exercer en permanence vos droits d’accès, rectification, effacement, limitation, opposition, retirer votre consentement et/ou pour toute question relative au traitement de vos données à caractère personnel en contactant [email protected] ou consulter les liens suivants : Protection des données , CGU du site et Contact . Le Délégué à la Protection des Données personnelles ( [email protected] ) est en copie de toute demande relative à vos informations personnelles.

• Dans un article
• Dans ma ville
• Culture - Loisirs
• Dumont’en bike : une randonnée VTT à tester du côté de Morsullaz
• Festival d'Avignon

Mont-Saxonnex Dumont’en bike : une randonnée VTT à tester du côté de Morsullaz

Tous en selle ! C’est le mot de ralliement pour les amateurs de VTT. Ce dimanche 7 juillet, le club VTT Mont-Saxonnex, porté par l’association Happy Move, organise la 1 re édition de Dumont’en bike, une randonnée en VTT enduro et VTTAE (à assistance électrique).

Depuis des semaines, le club est à pied d’œuvre pour le tracé des parcours avec l’aide de Sylvain Legagneur, moniteur de VTT, et Benoît Randuineau de l’association Les roues du Bargy. Les participants seront accueillis dès 8 h 30 à Morsullaz pour le retrait des...

...pour lire la suite, rejoignez notre communauté d'abonnés

et accédez à l'intégralité de nos articles sur le site et l'application mobile

à partir de 1 € le 1er mois, sans engagement de durée

{'skus': ['ldlswgpremium2']}

Google : 1€ le 1er mois puis 14,99€

• Mont-Saxonnex
• Cluses-région
• Edition Mont-Blanc / Arve
• Haute-Savoie