TOUR DU MONT BLANC

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Tour Du Mont Blanc

13 Days from 5500 ex Chamonix

Accommodation

12 Nights Hotel Stay

Transportation

Mostly on foot
Guest and Luggage Transfers included

 

Included Meals

12 Breakfasts
9 Lunches
10 Dinners

Trip Grade

Category 3
High Heart Rate Holiday

Charity

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Can you imagine wandering on winding paths through green forests and rolling meadows topped by breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc Massif, with its hanging glaciers and peaks crowned by majestic Mont Blanc itself? Can you smell the fresh mountain air, see the flower spotted fields, hear the dangling bells of the cows lining the trail?

What will you visualise after passing over the next Col, through the next forest and valley? Which country, language, and culture will await. What typical regional food will tease your palate tonight?

Our fully guided 13 Day Tour Du Mont Blanc Circuit Trek offers you a unique, immersive experience into the heart of Europe and its Alpine region, known for its breathtaking beauty, taking in the culture, and meeting the people.

The Tour du Mont Blanc, circumnavigating Europe’s highest mountain, remains one of the most iconic treks among hikers and adventurers. It will take you mountain high and valley low, covering all kinds of terrain, taking in pristine mountain views after every turn.

Hiking days on this fully supported trek range from 5-6 hours on average to peak days of 8-9 hours. Nights are spent residing in boutique hotels nestled in local villages along the way.

Together with your guide, you will cover roughly 160km in 9 days, exploring Mont Blanc’s massif with its seven valleys and bordering ridges flowing into Italy, Switzerland, and France. Each valley presenting its unique culture, architecture, and landscape to you and your group to explore. 

This challenging, literally breathtaking adventure will take you into the alpine region in the heart of Europe, visiting three different countries among like-minded people, sharing your stories over a delicious meal sourced from local produce each night.

“It is hard to find the words that describe vistas you see while doing this trek, we walked into France, Italy, and Switzerland, with steep, snow-capped mountains towering over the valleys…And Ismael, our Guide, to say he is a wonderful guide and person is an understatement, his knowledge, and passion….made us all see it through his eyes as if he had not done this many times before.” Jane McKenzie Australia

The trip was fantastic and everything went so smoothly thanks to your organisation skills. It was one of the prettiest treks I have been on. We were so well looked after it was a pleasure to do the hard yards each day only to finish it to stay in lovely accommodation. I want to thank you for all the help you gave me during the booking of the trip and the wonderful experience of my first visit to Europe. Denise Bird 

The Tour Du Mont Blanc is an approximately 170 km hike circumnavigating, Mont Blanc, the White Mountain, Europe’s highest peak, which is shared by Italy and France.

Officially measuring 4,809m Mont Blanc’s summit varies depending on the height of the snow cap covering the summit. 

The full circuit of the Tour Du Mont Blanc with its striking 10,600 m of ascents and descents will lead you through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Dating back centuries, the official trekking season for the Tour Du Mont Blanc is only open from the 15th of June to the 15th of September.

Taking on this trek with its unfolding staggering scenery, one will discover the reasons why it is one of the most popular treks in Europe.

Why No Roads?

Fully Guided
An excellent guide can make the difference between a trip of a lifetime and just an ordinary adventure.

Our multi-lingual certified mountain guides (all are IFMGA  International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations members the largest Mountain Guide Association in the world), are passionate about the nature that abounds around Mont Blanc. While you need to ensure you get into adequate physical shape for the trek, your guide will look after all the required preparation for trekking safely in the mountains, setting the path for you to enjoy an unforgettable experience. 

Are you ready to get enthralled by their fascinating stories?

Boutique Hotels
The Tour Du Mont Blanc is lined with all kinds of accommodation from mountain refugios to boutique hotels. Unlike many others, our trek differs in accommodating our guests only in comfortable family-run boutique hotels. We do not stay in any refugios along the trek. 

Luggage Transfers
Our Tour Du Mont Blanc is fully supported and your luggage is transferred to your new destination each day. This gives you the chance to enjoy your daily walks while only carrying a light day pack.

Meals
What more can we say about the food than it is locally sourced from the countries you are walking through. Even if you are not familiar with any local culinary delights from Switzerland, the cuisine of Italy and France should trigger your culinary imagination.
We are very passionate about food and have integrated a few extraordinary local dining experiences in some of the villages to share the variety of local specialties with our guests.

Cow on the tour du mont blanc trek
Lady jumping in the air on the Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc Journey

Check into your hotel and in the heart of Chamonix. Free time to yourself.

Today you will have time to explore picturesque Chamonix and its surroundings. After an introductory town tour by our local guide, you may want to take the infamous “Aiguille du Midi” cable car leading up to the highest restaurant in Europe or wander around the cobbled streets, taking a coffee and pastry in one of the street cafes or even a spot of last-minute expedition shopping. Chamonix is a wonderful place to explore and a great place to relax before your expedition the following day. This evening we will go out for dinner and receive your briefing with our trek leader. (B, D)

We begin by driving a short distance down the Chamonix valley to Les Houches and then taking the Bellevue cable car to Col de Voza. This avoids a steep and relentless slog right at the beginning of the trek. Many climbers heading for Mont Blanc also use this cable car. We descend gently to cross the melt stream of the giant Bionnassay Glacier by a swaying bridge before climbing to the Col de Tricot (2120m) from where we begin to have magnificent views of the glacial chaos of the north face of the Domes de Miage. The path descends steeply at first to the homely Refugio ‘Miage’ in the Miage glacial valley. Here we will rest and enjoy lunch before heading up over another pass before heading down into the charming hamlet of Les Contamines, where we spend the night. Les Contamines inhabits the valley floor with the spire of the old church reflecting the magnificent rocky mountains that surround. Les Contamines is the last major settlement before Courmayeur in Italy. Overnight in a charming local hotel. (B, L, D)

Transfer to the Baroque church ‘Notre Dame de la Gorge’ built in 1699. From there we head along the ‘Chemin Romain’, the old Roman road, before crossing the river over an old Roman stone bridge. We continue to la Balme with the option of a refreshing drink at the refugio before we head up a steep section to Col du Bonhomme at 2329m and even further to Col de la Croix de Bonhomme at 2450m. That is our climb for today and from here we start our descent towards Les Chapieux where we stay in the charming hotel of this small mountain village dating back to the late 19th century. (B, L, D, 

Today we start with a 15-minute transfer to the Ville des Glaciers. From here we head up another 750 meters in altitude to Col de la Seigne marking the frontier between France and Italy. There is an information centre just below the Col on the Italian side with good information on the area, including a 3D map of the massif. A long down to the valley below ends at the wonderful Refugio Elisabetta, where a hot meal awaits and we can taste our first Italian coffee. Our guide will pick out some of the most famous climbing routes on the mountain, including the Peuterey Ridge and Brouillard Face.

The view is stunning with glaciers slowly pouring off the massif, creating amazing valleys and wonderful waterfalls during the summer. If the weather is fine we might be able to take a high route towards our final destination, the wonderful Italian mountain town of Courmayeur and its views of ‘Monte Bianco’. Otherwise, we will take the more leisurely walk through the valley floor with its lush grasslands and glacial moraine fields. (B, L, D)

In the morning we head off for a trip to the ancient Roman town of Aosta, only one-hour south-east of Courmayeur. Here we explore the historic past in and  below the busy streets  of this Roman outpost during our private tour.
After lunch in a local ‘Osteria’ we head back to Courmayeur where you will have free time to explore the town, known as the Italian Counterpart to Chamonix.
One of Italy’s premier Ski Resorts in winter, in summer Courmayeur is inviting you to roam its charming cobblestone streets and taking in the relaxed atmosphere of the pedestrian centre, lined with sophisticated bars, cafes, and restaurants. Crowned by Monte Bianco itself and its dark stone massif with its snow peaks looming over the town. What an amazing backdrop for one of Europe’s most beautiful towns. This is a day to explore ancient history and local secrets, while giving those tired muscles some time to relax. Your guide is always happy point out more options where to go, what to eat and what to do. (B)

After a relaxing breakfast, we set off up a path from Courmayeur crossing a torrent then climbing steeply through thick larch forests (some of the most beautiful on the trail) on a good path to the Rifugio Bertone (1989m), a great place for a cappuccino. From there, if the weather is good we can take the high route ascending the Mont de la Saxe ridge, a wide grassy ridge dotted with wildflowers. This route is known as the balcony due to its superb views of the Italian side of Monte Bianco and the South Face of the Grandes Jorasses. We will enjoy this highlight of the trek before crossing the airy summits of la Tete Bernarda (2534m and la Tete de la Tronche 2584m). After three and a half hours, we reach Refugio Bonatti, maybe another cappuccino, before heading down to the valley floor to Val Ferret. The low route alternative is an easier option with less altitude gain, and a reduction of the final time (B, L, D)

This morning we head up to the Grand Col Ferret the border  between Italy and Switzerland. Along the way, we will stop at Refugio Elena for a morning tea or coffee. There are spectacular views towards the summit of Mont Dolent who divides the three countries of Italy, France and Switzerland. From there we head down to La Peule, a great place for lunch. We will enjoy our picnic lunch made of fresh local produce such as cheeses, cold cuts and baguette. We continue or walk downhill for another 2 hours through wildflower meadows along sinuous streams before we enter the charming Swiss village of La Fouly with its wooden houses and flower decorated balconies. Here we will check into the delightful Hotel Edelweiss where a hearty dinner awaits. (B, L, D)

Exploring the Mont Blanc Massive by foot is giving us the opportunity to walk the beautiful trails meandering through pleasant pine forests, fields of wildflowers and over towering passes, stopping here and there along the way to marble at the villages we pass through.

Today is such a typical day along the TMB where we will wander the small mountain road from La Fouly to the beautiful village of Champex and its mountain lake, passing through the village of Praz de Fort and the well-preserved village of Issert along the way. The trail then branches off the main valley and climbs gradually around the hillside, traversing above the pretty village of Champex. We continue along the lakeshore and finally climb 200 meters to the most charming hotel Splendide and its great mountain view (1627m).

This day is notable for the old chalets and grain stores in their original condition, lining the narrow streets and if the weather is fine this will be topped by a dip in the crystal clear waters of the lake if you wish.  (B, L, D)

(For those who wish to shorten this day it is possible to take a local bus from La Fouly to Champex instead.) 

One of the best mountain days on the whole trek takes us across the Fenetre d’Arpette (2665m). This high Col lies at the head of the Val d’Arpette and the crossing is one of the finest variants on the TMB circuit. The ground is fairly rough but never technical and when we reach the pass we are rewarded with a fantastic view of the Trient Glacier and across into the glacial bowl of the Plateau du Trient with the Aiguille du Tour (3544m) rising above (Crossing the plateau de Bovine is an easier or bad weather alternative).

From Col de Forclaz we will transfer by car down to Martigny, a Swiss town with Roman roots in the Rhone Valley for a  delicious dinner of local specialities. (B, L, D)

Note: The above-mentioned trail is one of the TMB’s variants. This will be done if the group is appropriate and the weather conditions are good. Alternatively, we will continue on the normal TMB route to Col de Foclaz via Bovine. This is a 5hr journey over 13 km with an ascent of 757m and a descent of 797m.

In the morning we transfer back to Col de la Forclaz from where we start our second last big climb of the TMB, which sees us ascending 900 meters to reach the Col de Balme (2200m). This ancient pass forms the border between Switzerland and France and as we descend down towards the village of Le Tour on the French side a spectacular panorama opens up across the entire Mont Blanc range with its peaks and glaciers and we find ourselves gazing down the valley towards Chamonix. 

Our accommodation for the night is in the village of Argentiere which serves up excellent meals and a great bed to rest in. (B, L, D)

From Argentiere, we transfer to the Col des Montets and ascend via Cheserys lakes into the Aiguilles Rouge on a spectacularly high-level path known as the Grand Balcon Sud. In this elevated position, we can gaze across the valley towards the huge Argentiere Glacier and the tremendous Aiguille Verte (4122m). At Cheserys we can detour to Lac Blanc (2352m), a famously photogenic spot where the Chamonix Needles can sometimes be wonderfully reflected in its still waters. After lunch, we continue on for another 1.5 – 2 hours to Planpraz cable car that will take us directly into Chamonix. (B, L, D)

Return transfer this morning from Chamonix to Geneva airport. (B)

Journey Extensions

Check out our Journey Extensions for those that want to stay a little longer or try something different along the way.

Pouring wine in France

The perfect way of starting your tour in the heart of Europe, enjoying some of its beautifully crafted drops with your companions. 

Sommelier
The wine experts from the wine shop “Vin sur Vin” in Chamonix will present you wines from Cotes Du Rhone, Bordeaux and more

Where
Your hotel in Chamonix. No need to travel anywhere, we will bring the wine to you.

When
Day 2 of your trip at 3:45pm just before your Welcome briefing.

Tasting Options
“Tour de France” – Degustation of 6 wines
Price per person is $90.00 

“Wine and Cheese” – Degustation of 6 wines with cheese
Price per person is $110.00

Duration
1.5 hours

Please note a minimum number of 5 participants is required for the tasting. We will notify you in time if the tasting is going ahead.

If you would like to explore Chamonix from another angle and your are into wine and food this is the perfect way of combining both. Collect and sample gourmet foods and wine from 3 well known artisan shops in Chamonix and be guided to one of the many beautiful picnic spots in town to enjoy this french feast with family and friends and the breathtaking backdrop of the Besson Glacier.

Includes

  • Pick up transfers from Geneva airport to Chamonix return
  • 3 Nights in Chamonix hotel (twin share) with 2 breakfasts & 2 dinners
  • Qualified Mountain Leader 
  • Luggage transportation throughout 
  • All fees and permits
  • 9 nights accommodation in cosy hotels along the trek (twin share)
  • All meals as noted (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
  • Picnic lunches and lunches in mountain Refugios
  • Lift tickets at Belle Vue and Plan Paz.
  • Chamonix Town Tour
  • Aosta Tour and Transfers

If you are traveling alone and are not able to share accommodation, a Single Supplement of $1750 will apply.

Excludes

  • Insurance
  • International Flights

Your Guides and Safety

Our handpicked professional guides who come from a range of backgrounds and are registered and licensed IFMGA members who work for us regularly. All mountain lovers, they skied, climbed, and hiked many of the routes around the area and spend their days exploring the Mont Blanc range and many other mountain ranges in the world.

The guide will ensure that your trip is truly inspiring, a huge amount of fun, and safe. All guides are trained in Mountain Safety First Aid.

This trip is for those who love the mountains and their scenery.

Who enjoy being active and making new friends along the way.

Those who favour a bit of comfort, honouring a nice meal and room each night. 

Those who enjoy travelling a bit slower and who have an interest in getting to know the local culture and history of the places they visit. 

Immerse yourself into this special experience of exploring the heart of Europe, its magnificent nature, its people and culture, step by step.

Wanderlust or the Art of Hiking the European Way

Have you been lucky enough to trek in Europe before? If yes, you are probably hooked too and will know exactly what I’m talking about. However, if you have never been trekking in Europe, be assured, a new passion will be born!

Europe has a strong hiking culture and the comfort and luxury trekking in Europe is known for, is unlike anywhere else in the world. With its mountain refugios offering delicious food along the way, passing through picturesque villages lining the path, stopping for some souvenirs, a coffee, gelati, or cake. The family-run boutique hotels accommodating you, guaranteeing a quiet and replenishing night’s sleep before waking up to a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit, bread, muesli, and homemade jams each day.

Trekking in Europe is trekking in style! Once you have tasted it, it is hard to go back and you will want to do it again and again!

Worry not, we love trekking in Europe too and have more beautiful treks in Europe on offer for you.

Food and Culture

Bonjour, Boungiorno, Grüezi, 

The Tour Du Mont Blanc with its trails leading through the neighbouring countries of France, Italy, and Switzerland awaits with its culinary delights and typical culture of the local regions.

Walk over the borders of France Italy and Switzerland, getting mixed up with their languages, and enjoy the stories and culture of the regions.

Taste the food of the Haute Savoie and the hearty dishes of the villages you are walking through. Feast on fresh baguettes with cured meats local cheeses and satisfy your sweet tooth with a Cappuccino or Gelato along the way.

Mountain trail Tour du mont blanc

We get asked a lot of questions about the Tour Du Mont Blanc. The following are certainly the most common however if you have another question please let us know or the answer may be found in our Trip Notes section.

How hard is the Tour Du Mont Blanc?

Although the Tour Du Mont Blanc is known for its legendary beauty offering some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the world, it is no walk in the park and it is a challenging trek. The devil lies in the detail with its multiple ascents and descents covered along the way. Most of the trail is well maintained but you will encounter a few rocky sections and knee challenging ups and downs. We added a much-needed rest day in the charming village of Courmayeur into our itinerary to replenish our body, using the time to gain an insight into Italian history and culture. Good preparation is the secret to a successful and enjoyable trek and No Roads will support you with adequate training tips. If you are a reasonably active person who puts in a bit more training to prepare for this trek you will be rewarded with an exceptional experience.

Do I have to carry my passport along the trail?

The answer is “no”. You do not have to carry nor show your passport when you cross the borders into Italy, Switzerland, and France on the trail. Surprisingly, without the border stones marking the borderline you would not even notice and find yourself suddenly surprised by a new language. For us Australians, this is an amazing experience to remember!

What are the Refugios like on the TMB?

Europe has a network of Huts and Refugios offering board and lodging to hikers along the trails. While No Roads is differing from other operators in only accommodating our guests in boutique hotels, we love the food and the vibe in the refugios. We will enjoy some of our lunches and will always have time for a cappuccino and cake in the refugios, mingling with the crowd.

The Tour Du Mont Blanc or TMB is one of the most beautiful and popular treks in Europe. Walking the TMB will show you why Europeans do trekking so well. No tents nor dried food along this trek. This might be your first trek ending with an unexpected surprise on your scale. But it is hard to choose between the artisan cheeses and charcuterie or the homemade blueberry tart! Not to mention the beautiful European-style buffet breakfasts and the three-course dinners.
With access to a nice warm shower and a comfy bed to rest your head each night this trek is definitely one of the comfortable ones.

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