self guided tour mont blanc

How to Hike the Tour Du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

By: Author Gabi

Posted on Last updated: April 7, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What Is The Tour Du Mont Blanc?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

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

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

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

Reasons To Hike The Tour Du Mont Blanc

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

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

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

Why You Should Go With Self-Guided

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

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

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

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

Where Does the Tour du Mont Blanc Start & End?

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

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

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

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

How to Get to The Tour du Mont Blanc

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

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

Buses and Trains to Chamonix

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

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

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

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

Bus Services to Chamonix

Prices are per person

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

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

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

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

Staying in Chamonix

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

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

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

Related: Why We Love La Folie Douce Hotel in Chamonix

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

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

We use Booking.com to find great hotel deals.

Getting to Les Houches

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

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

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

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

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

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

Refuges vs Camping

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

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

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

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

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

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

Staying at Refuges

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

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

Refuge Basics

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

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

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

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

Half Board vs Dorm Only

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

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

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

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

Espresso/Alcohol Isn’t Included

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

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

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

Cost of Refuges

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

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

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

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

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

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

Booking Refuges

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If You Don’t Have Time to Hike it All

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

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

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

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

Clockwise vs Counter Clockwise

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

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

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

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

Will you be alone on the Tour Du Mont Blanc?

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

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

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

Are There Cities Along the Tour du Mont Blanc?

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

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

How Hard is the Tour du Mont Blanc?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

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

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

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

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

The Ultra Tour du Mont Blanc

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

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

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

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

Weather on the Tour du Mont Blanc

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to Consider before taking on the TMB

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

TMB Guidebook and Map

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc

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

Click here to see the pack list.

Overview of the Stages of the Tour Du Mont Blanc

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

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

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

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

Stage 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

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

Stage 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

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

Stage 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

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

Stage 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

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

Stage 5: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

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

Stage 6: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

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

Stage 7: La Fouly to Champex

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

Stage 8: Champex to Col de la Forclaz

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

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

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

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

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

Stage 11: La Flégère to Les Houches

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Resources:

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

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Wednesday 1st of November 2023

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

Sunday 26th of March 2023

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

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

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

Friday 23rd of December 2022

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

Saturday 24th of December 2022

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

Atashi Mandal

Monday 26th of July 2021

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

Tuesday 27th of July 2021

Wonderful to hear! Enjoy the incredible trek!

Monday 19th of April 2021

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

Tuesday 20th of April 2021

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

TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOURS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RESERVE YOUR TMB SELF-GUIDED TOUR NOW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Champex to l’Argentière

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT’S INCLUDED

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

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

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

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

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

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

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

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

  RESERVE YOUR TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR NOW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Courmayeur – Grand Col Ferret – Champex

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our 10-day tour is sold out for 2024!

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

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

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

Day 1: Chamonix – Brevent – Les Houches

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

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

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

Day 2: Les Houches – Les Contamines Monjoie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: La Fouly – Val Ferret Suisse – Champex

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

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

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

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

Day 9: Trient – Col de La Balme – Argentière

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOUR DU MONT BLANC REVIEWS

Check out more of Nuyama’s reviews here .

TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR INFO

Availability.

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

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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Tour Details

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

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

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

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

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

Luggage Storage and Luggage Transfers

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

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

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

Grade & Terrain and Required Fitness Level

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

Altitude Sickness

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

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

Packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc

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

Hiking Times/Distances

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

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

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

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

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

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TOUR DU MONT BLANC SELF-GUIDED TOUR FAQs

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

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

How Do I Get From Geneva to Chamonix?

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

Is the Tour du Mont Blanc hard?

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

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

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

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

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

Can you do the Tour du Mont Blanc by yourself?

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

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

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

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

Is luggage transfer possible on the Tour du Mont Blanc?

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

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

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

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

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

When is the best time to hike the TMB?

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

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

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

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

What currency do I need for the TMB?

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

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

Much has changed since then!

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

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

In this Guide

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

Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc Planning

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

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

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

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

Check it out below:

Plan Your Perfect Tour du Mont Blanc Trip

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

Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc

Complete Guide & Planning Portal | 30 modules

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

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

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

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

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

Step One: Pick Your Dates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step Three: Book Your Accommodation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GPS Route Making & Navigation

Video Course | 17 lessons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step Five: Make a Plan to Navigate on the Trail

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

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

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

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

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

Step Six: Pack Your Bags for the TMB!

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

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

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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc: Guided vs. Self-Guided

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

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

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

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

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

Check out some pros/cons for each option below:

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Guided

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a great adventure!

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

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

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

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

Tour du Mont Blanc

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Self-Guided Hiking Tours

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

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

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Trip  Highlights :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trip Itinerary

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

Day 1 - Arrive in Chamonix

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

Day 2 - Chamonix to Les Contamines

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

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

Day 3 - Les Contamines to La Ville des Glaciers

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

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

Day 4 - La Ville des Glaciers to Courmayeur

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

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

Day 5 - Courmayeur to Val Ferret

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

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

Day 6 - Val Ferret to Champex

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

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

Day 7 - Champex to Trient

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

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

Day 8 - Trient to Argentière

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

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

Day 9 - Argentière to Chamonix

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

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

Day 10 - Depart

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

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Trip rating.

Trip Ratings Explained

Self-Guided Tour

Mid June-Mid September

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

Book now for 2025!

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

Guided Tour

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

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

*Minimum of two people required to run this tour

Private Guided Tour

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

**Price based on a group of four

Please contact us to schedule a private guided tour.

Trip Profile

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

Tour Package Includes

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

Accommodations

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

Breakfast + Dinner

Breakfast included daily. Dinner included everywhere except Chamonix.

Luggage Transfer

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

Transportation

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

Geneva, Switzerland

Tour du Mont Blanc | France, Italy & Switzerland

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

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-guided walking holiday

The Tour du Mont Blanc is arguably one of the best and most popular hiking trips in Europe. It’s a trek of superlatives, forming a circuit of Western Europe's highest mountain: Mont Blanc (4,808m). Our Tour comprises 11 stages and 1 rest day in Courmayeur. Hikers are treated to grandstand views of the Mont Blanc massif from most angles, crossing from France into Italy, then into Switzerland and finally back into France. The combination of high mountain passes, pastoral valleys, charming villages and typical Savoyard and Valaisian food, make for an unusually rounded 2-week walking holiday. Our classic schedule stays in four mountain huts, a part of the way of life in Alpine hiking. Our routecards follow the main Tour du Mont Blanc route, plus optional variants such as that to Lac Blanc for direct views across to Mont Blanc and the Aiguille Verte. The route variants let you to make this trip your own, by picking your preferred route each day. We build in one rest day, in Courmayeur after 4 stages, to rest your legs and enjoy the charm of this Italian mountain town. We walk every step of the Tour without the need to use transport, completing the full circuit in one satisfying fortnight.

• Bespoke accommodation and Itinerary, tailored to your preferences
• Breakfast every morning
• Dinner at the huts and in Les Contamines, Les Chapieux, La Fouly, Trient and Champex (subject to change depending on your itinerary)
• Detailed Routecards TMB1-11 of the Exploratory system , printed on waterproof paper
• The 2 French topographical maps needed (1:25,000)
• Downloadable GPX Tracks covering the route
• Expert advice and local information
• A comprehensive Season Update following our pre-season recce
• Full support during your trip from the Alpine Exploratory team (9am until 9pm in the Alps)
• Travel to and from your trip
• Local transport during the trip unless specified
• Travel insurance
• Lunches, snacks, drinks and evening meals in Chamonix, Courmayeur and Argentiere (this would be 5 nights on our 11-stage 'classic' trip)
• Baggage transfer (available as an extra)

Baggage transfer

If you prefer, please feel welcome to email or call us. Thanks!

Open to the world Since Alpine Exploratory started in 2005 we have loved getting to know our clients from around the world. Along with the UK, our best-represented countries are the US, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Please use our national-rate numbers for a cheaper call to contact our office in Edinburgh.

Alpine Exploratory Alpine Exploratory is a system of knowledge on the best mountain trekking in our areas, giving clients superb holidays based on this exploration. About us

Trek with us in the Alps, Scandinavia, UK or Ireland. Go self-guided or join a guided trip.

We research and interpret the trail to give you the finest walking holiday.

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Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

Hike the world's premier hut-to-hut route self-guided

Trip Details

Hiking trip summary.

The Mont Blanc Massif, composed of Mont Blanc ( at 15,776′, the highest peak in Western Europe) and a flank of impressively spectacular peaks and glaciers, uniquely straddles the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland. Rich in alpine history and cultural diversity, this region has been attracting mountaineers and hikers the world over for nearly two hundred years.

Circling the base of the magnificent Mont Blanc Range, our self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc trips wanders through alpine meadows, over barren passes, into small hamlets, and beneath gigantic glaciers. During your self-guided tour, you will view Mont Blanc and its surrounding peaks, glaciers and alpine valleys from three different countries as you hike in the French Alps, Swiss Alps, and Italian Alps.

Having had a presence in the Chamonix-Mont Blanc area for over 30 years, Distant Journeys is one of the foremost providers of self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc itineraries. We are intimately familiar with the trip area and well respected by the hotels, hut owners and service providers with whom we work. Every itinerary is personally crafted to provide a quality experience, at good value, that is just right for you.

Show itinerary

• This itinerary represents one of many possibilities. There are many variations possible, depending on your timeframe and level of hiking ability. Please contact us if you would like a more detailed itinerary including elevation gain, loss, distance, and additional information.

Day 1 : Independent travel to Chamonix, France. Chamonix is home to a dazzling array of many of the highest peaks in the Alps, including Mont Blanc (15,776′).

Day 2 : Short transfer by bus to Les Houches and cable car to Bellevue (5,610′). Here you begin today’s hike, passing by the foot of the huge Glacier de Bionnassay, then up through lush meadows to the Col du Tricot (6,995′), with spectacular views of the Aiguille du Bionnassay, Dome du Gouter, and the entire Chamonix valley. After a steep descent from the Col, you arrive at your refuge, set in a lush valley dominated by the Dome de Miage. Often there is time to explore this beautiful valley before dinner.

Day 3 : From Miage, you continue to the small village of Les Contamines, with time to linger and buy lunch items for the next day. Departing Les Contamines, you hike up the Mont Joie Valley, past a 15th-century mountain church, Notre Dame de la Gorge, cross a small Roman bridge, and continue up this broad alpine valley to your overnight stop.

Day 4 : Departing your accommodation, you begin a steady climb to the Croix de la Bonhomme and the Col des Fours (8,960′). From here a 20-minute detour takes you to the highest point of the tour, Tete des Nord Fours (9,045′). Weather permitting, there is an expansive 360-degree view. After a long descent passing through the Ville des Glacier and perhaps stopping to buy some Beaufort cheese at a farm, you end your day at the remote and lively Refuge des Mottets.

• An alternate route is to hike to Chapieux and stay in a hiker’s hostel and resume the hike as below.

Day 5 : Today’s hike brings you to the Italian border at the Col de la Seigne (8,300′). Hiking down the Val Veny, the Italian side of the Mont Blanc massif and Mont Blanc itself dominate the scene, with myriad glaciers and towering rocky peaks. Hike to La Visaille. Transfer by private taxi to your hotel in Courmayeur, Italy. This transfer is included in the cost of the trip, and we will make arrangements for you to be met at La Visaille. Dinner on your own.

• From either Chapieux or Mottets it is possible to hike to Rifugio Maison Vieille. This adds another wonderful day and a half of hiking before arriving in the village of Courmayeur.

Day 6 : Rest day in Courmayeur. The day can be spent exploring the town’s narrow streets, sampling the local pastries and cuisine, day hiking, or taking a series of cable cars up to Point Helbronner and into the heart of the Mont Blanc Massif.

Day 7 : Transfer by private taxi from the hotel in Courmayeur to the end of the spectacular Val Ferret. Hike to Ferret, Switzerland over the Col Grand Ferret (8,372′). Stopping for lunch en-route you are offered views of the Val Veny, Val Ferret, and the skyline dominated by the Grandes Jorasses, Aiguille Talefre, and Mont Dolent. This wonderful day of hiking ends in the Swiss Val Ferret.

• Many of our hikers depart on foot from Courmayeur and hike to the wonderful  Rifugio Walter Bonatti  for the night. This strenuous hike is perhaps one of the most amazing treks on the entire route. The next day the route continues to Ferret, Switzerland. We  recommend  this option.

Day 8 : A moderate day of hiking takes you down the Ferret Valley, through small Swiss hamlets and beautiful gardens. The hike ends with a climb up to the picturesque lake village of Champex. This afternoon you will have some time to explore this small village, relax or stroll around the lake.

Day 9 : There are two hiking options for today, and you can decide which you prefer in the morning. One is via the high alpine pastures of Bovine, with expansive views of the Rhone Valley, and the other, more difficult, the route is up and over the ruggedly beautiful Fenetre d’Arpette. The second option is possible only if weather conditions are appropriate. You end the day in the quiet town of Trient.

Day 10 : Hike from Trient to Tre le Champ or the village of Argentiere, France, over the Col de Balme (7,230′). Crossing into France at the Col, once again the spectacular sight of the Chamonix valley and the Mont Blanc Range, with its dramatic peaks and glaciers, will be breathtaking. You can end your day at either the small refuge in Tre le Champ or continue about 25 minutes further down the trail to Argentiere and stay in a small, simple hotel.

• It is possible to hike from Trient all the way to Chamonix in one day. There are several hiking options and buses that can shorten the hiking day. This is a great option if you are short on time and need to combine two hiking days into one.

Day 11 : From Tre le Champ or Argentiere you hike to Chamonix with ever-changing views of the Aiguille Verte, the Aiguilles des Chamonix, and the glaciers of le Tour, Argentiere, and the Mer de Glace. There are several hiking options for today’s hike.

Day 12 : The trip will end at the hotel in Chamonix. Please allow for travel time when making plans.

Additional Information

• General consulting regarding hiking dates and abilities
• Travel information and suggestions
• Detailed French IGN Topo maps, 1:25,000 scale, covering the route
• Detailed trail notes – we keep our notes updated and as accurate as possible
• Additional information covering various aspects of your trip (i.e., lunches, laundry, water, refuge routines, alternate transportation)
• All overnight accommodations, which include breakfasts and most dinners (hotels with private baths as described in itinerary; other overnight accommodations may vary)
• All private taxi transfers, if any, as detailed in the final itinerary

The above may change, depending on your final, confirmed itinerary.

NOT INCLUDED

This may vary, depending on the final itinerary: Airfare, luggage transfer, if any, lunches, travel to and from the starting point, which is normally Chamonix, cable cars, ski lifts, any transfers or excursions on trains, buses, taxis, extra charges due to changes in itinerary, items not on set dinner menu, dinners in Chamonix, Courmayeur, Argentiere, beverages (except what is served at breakfast), insurance, items of a personal nature. 

This hike is  not  vehicle supported. You will need to carry a small- to moderate-sized pack with only the clothing and accessories you will need for the duration of the hike. (See our sample  packing list .) With advances in synthetic clothing and other travel gear, it’s possible to keep your pack weight to 15 - 20 lbs., including lunch and water.  Any extra luggage or belongings you may have can be left at the hotel in Chamonix.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND FACILITIES

The accommodations on the TMB vary from comfortable 3-star hotels to rustic mountain refuges. Your trip may or may not include the following, depending on your final confirmed itinerary.

Hotels : Hotels with private bath include Chamonix, Courmayeur, Ferret or La Fouly, Champex, and Argentière. All are friendly, family-run hotels that reflect the local character. We are certain you will find these hotels comfortable and welcoming.

Hiker’s Hotels : The hiker’s hotels offer simple and basic, though comfortable, accommodations. They have private double rooms with shared facilities. Hiker’s hotels include Chapieux, France, and Ferret and Trient, Switzerland.

Refuges or Huts : These are wonderful rustic farms that have been converted to accommodate hikers. They offer shared bunkrooms, called dortoirs, complete with blankets and pillows. The shared facilities vary, but all have washing and bathroom areas and hot showers. Refuges include: Miage, La Balme, Bonhomme and Mottets in France; Maison Vieille and Bonatti in Italy. Depending on your final itinerary, you might not stay at all of these refuges.

The atmosphere is friendly and jovial as hikers from many countries gather to spend the night. We believe that staying in the huts and small hotels offers a wonderful opportunity to meet hikers from other parts of the world, experience something new and wonderful, and take part in the simple tradition of the European style of hiking hut-to-hut.

Meals : Breakfasts are served each morning at the hotels, hiker’s hotels, and refuges. Lunches are picnic style on the trail. Dinners are served at the hiker’s hotels and refuges. Dinners are not included in Chamonix, Courmayeur or Argentiere.

The closest international airport is Geneva, Switzerland. From Geneva, you can travel to and from Chamonix by train, a shared van, private taxi or bus. Depending on the route and mode of transportation, travel time between Geneva and Chamonix can take between 1 and 4 hours. There are also trains from Zurich or Paris, just allow for extra travel time.

STARTING POINT

Our traditional starting point for the Tour du Mont Blanc hike is Chamonix, France. Other possible starting points include Courmayeur, Italy, and Champex, Switzerland.

ENDING POINT

As the Tour du Mont Blanc is a circular route, most of our itineraries end back in Chamonix.

WHO WOULD LIKE THIS TRIP?

Not only is our Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc a great introduction to hut-to-hut hiking in Europe, it also offers a great introduction to the self-guided hike format. This route is well-traveled and well-marked and offers solid hiking with a nice variety of accommodations. Anyone with some hiking experience and some map-reading skills will greatly enjoy the Tour du Mont Blanc.

WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP DIFFERENT?

Having had a presence in Chamonix-Mont Blanc area for over 30 years, Distant Journeys is one of the foremost providers of self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc itineraries. We are intimately familiar with the trip area and well respected by the hotels, hut owners and service providers with whom we work. At the end of a day of hiking on one of our self-guided itineraries, whether you are ending your day at a mountain hut or village hotel, you will be greeted with the same anticipation and welcome as if we were arriving along with you. We feel a deep sense of connection to and passion for this area and this route. Every itinerary is personally crafted to provide a quality experience, at good value, that is just right for you.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information, for a more-detailed itinerary description (with elevation gains and losses and distances), to register , or to get started planning your personalized self-guided itinerary, please contact us !

Reserving This Trip

A non-refundable deposit of $500 along with your completed registration forms will reserve a space on your requested trip. We accept MasterCard, Visa, and American Express card as well as personal checks. To make a deposit, you may either follow one of the “Reserve a Trip” links below, give us a call at 1-888-845-5781, or include your payment information in the area provided when completing your registration forms.

Before registering for this, please read our Terms and Conditions in their entirety and then refer to our Self-Guided Trips page for specific information regarding the process.

The balance is due 90 days prior to departure for most of our trips. When applying less than 75 days prior to departure, full payment is due. For final payments, we accept MasterCard, Visa, and American Express, as well as personal checks.

As confirmation of receipt of your deposit, we will send you a comprehensive packet of information pertaining to your trip, an invoice for final payment and additional information including release agreement form, medical information form, travel information, and packing list. Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive trip rendezvous information and a list of accommodations. Returning trip participants will receive a 5% discount on most trips.

Receipt of all forms will finalize your registration.

We will be scheduling dates for this trip soon. You will be able to reserve your spot when there are scheduled dates.

Please check back.

Related Trips

Testimonials.

We had a fantastic Tour du Mont Blanc trip in July! Thank you so much for your help organizing all the details. Everything happened like clockwork and having done several trekking trips, I can say this was one of the smoothest. It's obvious that you and your team have a deep knowledge of the area and very thoughtfully select hotels, huts and inns and provide such detailed trip notes. 

Amanda B. and Scott M., Lyons, CO

“Your trial notes were impeccable, and the information you provided was complete and thorough.  What you did NOT prepare me for, though, was the profound sadness and disorientation I felt after returning home.... I miss the TMB so much -- the sense of purpose and the simple routine of putting one foot in front of the other to get from point A to point B. I am suffering from severe post TMB blues.... Be sure to warn your future customers that this WILL happen because they will fall in love so hard for this wonderful journey and this magical experience.”          

Kelly P., Kalispell, MT

"I was struck by the very different vibes when you cross borders.  I was not expecting the towns and refuges to feel like they were in such different locations.  I found it really helpful to ask people what is local.  For instance, if you are having a before dinner cocktail or aperitif, they love to serve local spirits.”

Karen E., WA

“I loved the structure your information provided. I need to know what to expect, and I do not like surprises and your information gave me that security. I felt we were really prepared thanks to all the information you provided."

Suzanne Y., TX

“We were looking to hike the TMB and had trouble finding detailed information on routes and accommodations. After finding a reference to DJ on a Rick Steve’s forum board I contacted Andrea and she was a wealth of information! Since we didn’t want to spend our entire vacation hiking, she was able to customize a “half-TMB” hike that fit our needs where others were not interested in a semi-custom trip. “

Stephen Y., TX

Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc

France-italy-switzerland tour du mont blanc, self-guided ..

• Information

What's included

• 24 Hour Helpline
• 3 Star Hotel in Courmayeur
• Accommodation (shared bedroom / dormitory)
• Digital Guidebook
• GPS Maps with GPX File
• Half-Board (breakfast, 3 course dinner)
• Reliable trail-updates from local guides
• Support from a local team
• Airport transfers
• Equipment rental
• Luggage Transfer (max. 15kg per unit)
• Private Accommodation (twin / double)
• Private expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)

What is a Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc package?

By doing a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc, you’ll be your own guide. This gives you the freedom to hike at your own pace, and to take route variants that might not be possible for a typical guided group. However, by booking a self-guided package, you will not be alone! We’ll provide you with a detailed digital guidebook, plus day-by-day GPS maps. We’ll book all your accommodation, and – of course! – you’ll be able to contact us at anytime. A self-guided package offers hassle-free hiking, with the safety-net of local, expert guides.

What’s included in a Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc?

Our standard self-guided packages include :

A digital guidebook

You’ll receive a Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc guidebook, created by our team of local guides. Within the guidebook, you’ll find :

• detailed turn-by-turn descriptions
• route-finding information
• information about mountain safety
• interesting facts about local flora, fauna and culture
• descriptions of what views you can expect to see along the trail
• information about where to eat, drink, and buy provisions
• village guides

We’ll send you GPX Files for each stage of your Tour du Mont Blanc. You can download these onto your mobile phone, and then follow the GPS route.

Accommodation

We will book all your accommodation for you. The accommodation is in shared dormitories, plus one night in a 3 star hotel (Courmayeur). Some nights you’ll stay in remote mountain villages, with just a few simple shops. On other nights, you’ll stay in mountain refuges. Mountain refuges are special places. High up in the mountains, they’re only accessible by foot or helicopter. For more information about mountain refuges, read this post . If you’d prefer private accommodation, this can be arranged for 7 out of the 9 nights. The exact price changes from year to year, so we will discuss this with you when planning your tour.

The accommodation will provide breakfast in the mornings, plus a 3 course dinner in the evenings. The only accommodation that does not include dinner is the 3 star hotel in Courmayeur. However, this is an opportunity to explore the historic town and find your ideal Italian meal!

Support from our team of local guides

As we’re based year-round in the Chamonix valley, we will provide expert knowledge and in-person support. From May, we’ll publish reliable trail updates on our blog , and you can call our emergency number at any time. Ahead of your tour, we’ll also send you informative videos about what to pack, and what to expect from a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc.

Customising a Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc package

If you have specific requests, we’ll work with you to tailor-make your self-guided package. If there’s a specific mountain refuge that you’d like to stay at, or if you want to sleep in private rooms, we can normally accommodate your requests without a problem. However, please note that accommodation on the Tour du Mont Blanc fills up very quickly, so whether we can accommodate your requests will depend on how early you book your tour.

About the Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the most famous long-distance hikes in the world. It weaves around the iconic Mont Blanc, passing through France, Italy and finally Switzerland. The route is around 170 kilometres (105 miles), with 10,000 metres of ascent. Some of the trails are rocky, and completing the route requires a basic level of fitness. A standard self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc takes 10 days to complete. Each day is around 15 – 20 kilometres (12 miles), with 1000 metres of ascent. Of course, if you’d prefer to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in more or less time, we can adjust your route accordingly. The Tour du Mont Blanc is usually hiked between June – September. For information about the best time to do a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc, read this post .

Believe it or not, there’s an annual ultra-marathon which follows the TMB route. The winners of the Ultra Trail de Mont Blanc ( UTMB ) complete the whole route in less than 20 hours!

Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc Highlights

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is more than just a hike. Completing the circuit is a physical, once-in-a-lifetime achievement. It’s something you can be proud of! And by doing a self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc, you’ll have the freedom to hike at exactly your own pace.

Along the way, you’ll see a huge variety of plants and landscapes. From dark, damp forests, you’ll emerge into bright alpine meadows, full of colour and fragrance. Further up, you’ll reach the rocky, windy mountain passes, where only the most specialised plants can survive. Look carefully and you’ll notice different plants at different altitudes. You might even spot a precious gem, such as the Martagon Lily or the Black Vanilla Orchid. Listen out for the distinctive, high-pitched call of a marmot. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a herd of chamois, or an ibex perched on a rock.

A popular Tour du Mont Blanc highlight is, of course, the food! Because you’ll hike through three different countries, there are many local dishes to try. In your self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc guidebook, you’ll find information about our favourite local dishes, restaurants and cafes.

For more Tour du Mont Blanc highlights, read this post .

More about Mont Blanc Massif

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Availability for TMB 2024

Due to cancellation we now have a few spots re-listed for this summer:

3 August Classic TMB – 1 place

17 August Comfort TMB – 2 places (guided or self guided)

Contact us for booking and further info!

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

Tour du Mont Blanc self guided v guided

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

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

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

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

1. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc self guided independently

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So which should I choose?

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

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

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

Further Reading...

Which Tour du Mont Blanc guide book is best?

Water stops on the TMB

Planning – the first steps

16 comments.

Renee Barthelman

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

tourdumontblanchike

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope this info helps. Best. Mags

David Felton

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

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

Øyvind Nilsen

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

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

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

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

Brad Muender

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

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

Like to receive updates via email

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

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Self Guided Treks: Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du mont blanc self guided 11 days.

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

Adventure Snapshot

10 Nights, 11 Days

Start Location

Les Houches, France

June - September

From €1900

VIEW GALLERY

ITALY, SWITZERLAND & FRANCE / 10 NIGHTS / 11 DAYS

This 10 night / 11 day version of the Tour du Mont Blanc trek is an incredible opportunity to completely immerse yourself in the mountains and enjoy the natural beauty of the valleys that surround western Europe’s highest mountain. The trek offers an unusual variety of spectacular scenery and varied walks and you are sure to come away from this trek refreshed and invigorated, if a little creaky at the joints. The route crosses three borders (France, Italy and Switzerland) over 11 days, traversing beneath huge glaciers, and meandering through beautiful alpine meadows and picture-book villages. That's right, this is a truly memorable journey and one of worlds classic long-distance hiking routes. This trip is great for the purists who have enough time to take on the full journey. You will experience the full version of the Tour du Mont Blanc independently and fully self-guided. Not sure whether you're ready? No problem. Take our Tour du Mont Blanc Trek 'Readiness' test or join us on our Tour du Mont Blanc guided trips: Take our Tour du Mont Blanc Trek 'Readiness' test

Learn more. Download our guide here.

Enter your details to download the tour du mont blanc self guided 11 days brochure.

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YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE

Who is this for.

The Tour du Mont Blanc Trek is well suited to fit hillwalkers, capable of trekking for multiple days carrying a reasonably heavy rucksack. You follow footpaths each day and the terrain is very hilly. You can expect to do up to and over 1000m ascent and descent per day.  You stay in a mixture of mountain refuges, gites and auberges during the trek, which all provide basic but comfortable lodging and good food. This helps keep your packs fairly light carrying only snacks, clothing and essentials.

It might seem like a lot to take in so if you're not sure if you're ready.. No problem. Take our Tour du Mont Blanc Trek 'Readiness' test or join us on one of our Tour du Mont Blanc guided trips: Take our Tour du Mont Blanc Trek 'Readiness' test

Adventure Overview

Guide Ratio

Self Guided

You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing. You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more 'aggressive' environments. Let's dial it up!

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

Great news! Your place on this adventure is carbon offset along with our footprint in creating it. To learn more about what we're doing head to our 'Better Business' page.

See real footage of previous expeditions

The Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Stunning views and great memories. This is the Tour du Mont Blanc Trek.

What is Self Guided Trekking?

Olly and Charlie discuss what a self guided trip looks like.

Meet The Team

Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.

Beginner Hikes Tour Du Mont Blanc

Check out Dave’s experience on the Tour du Mont Blanc with us.

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP

Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last minute equipment on arrival dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary.

For the full downloadable Tour Du Mont Blanc Trek kit list please click here .

Hiking shoes / Trail Shoes

Good grip and ankle support is recommended

Softshell Jacket

Light technical jacket, ideally with a hood.

Lightweight fleece

Something light and thin.

Thermal Tops

Keep them light and thin.

FULL KIT LIST

Click the link in the text above to find the full kit list

We had a spectacular trip - and Adventure Base was a big reason why. The staff was proactive before the trip, providing advice on packing and IMPORTANTLY on weather and proper equipment (ie micro-spikes and poles) to make us safe and comfortable. All the staff were knowledgeable and responsive to all our many questions during the Tour. It was like having a personal guide OFF the mountain - a prefect solution as we wanted to hike on our own but wanted expert advice. thank you! Betsy Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

We had an amazing experience planning the TMB with Adventure Base. Everything went well before and during our trip. Great support from their side. Filipa Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

The direct, face to face meetings with both Beth Gavoille and Charlie Krarup left me feeling that they each genuinely wanted to understand my needs, wants and concerns and would do whatever they could to assist me as much as possible. I never felt that I was simply a customer in a financial transaction with them but rather that they authentically cared about me. You truly felt that you were being listened to. Raymond Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

Booked our 11 day self guided tour du mont blanc trek with adventure base who were great from the outset. From prior to booking in answering all of our questions, keeping us informed throughout the booking process all the way through to being readily available to answer any questions and provide alternative gpx and information on varient routes we wanted to take. Incredible team. Thank you Zena Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

7 Day Self-guided TBM was an amazing trip. AB planned everything exceptionally well. No issues. I will use them again for my next trip. Steven Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

5 stars for the Adventure Base team! We are so pleased with our self-guided 9-day Tour du Mont Blanc trek through Adventure Base. The company had clear communication with us the whole way- from making our itinerary, checking in before with left the US, checking in once we got to Chamonix, and then while we were on the trail as well. They helped us chose a different route mid hike, making us feel safe and supported. They also did a lot of small things that went a long way- holding our luggage + dropping it off at our hotel to be ready for us once we were done hiking, providing us with digital + paper maps, a mini trail first aid kit and buffs. We are so thankful to have used them! Elizabeth Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

The Adventure Base team was a complete pleasure to work with - friendly and knowledgeable. The team was super responsive from start to finish (from planning phase and throughout our trek) providing great advice, logistics and support. We will use AB again - 5 stars!! Dino Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

We did the TMB with adventure base- family with 2 teenagers. We honestly could not have asked for a better organised self guided tour- the accommodation, bag transfers, food and the communication by Adventure base were amazing. Only trumped by Mother Nature- what a beautiful and bucket list walk. Olly, Beth and Virginia were superb and we highly recommend this tour company. Ginny Self guided Tour du Mont Blanc

FINER DETAILS

Your adventure package .

The trek begins in Les Houches at the Bellevue cable car in the Chamonix valley. Typically people will arrive the night before and overnight either in Les Houches or overnight in Chamonix and take the train from Chamonix to Les Houches in the morning to start the hike. If you would like us to book your accommodation for the first night please ask.

What's Included?

What's not included.

• Airport transfers (approx €50 pp each way)
• In-resort travel (bus / lifts / trains)
• Lunches, snacks and drinks (approx €15 a day)
• Luggage transfers (approx €35 a day)
• Additional nights before, during and after trip (can be added on request)
• Travel insurance (required)

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATION

We know the importance of having comfortable accommodation on this trip. After a long day of trekking it's vital to have a comfortable bed and good food to enjoy in a scenic location. We've handpicked refuges and other mountain accommodation along the way that we're sure you're going to love. (A single room supplement is available where possible, please request this far in advance)

ON THE TREK

The majority of the accommodation on the trip will be in dormitories and / or small shared rooms. You can upgrade any of the accommodation options if requested in advance and based on availability.

Not included

Shared arrangements

Immerse yourself in Nature

Adventure itinerary.

Here you'll find the full itinerary including distances (KM) ascents and descents each day and a rough estimate of how long it will take. Start point: Les Houches End point: Les Houches Length: 11 days Whilst we aim to stick to the itinerary below, accommodation in some of the locations may not always be available. In this instance you will be booked into a suitable alternative accommodation. For the full itinerary please click here .

Les Houches - Auberge du Truc

Today is an easy first day to ease into the trek. Ascend on foot up to the Col du Voza and then follow path along parallel to the train tracks to the Bellevue train station where the variant Col du Tricot trail leads down to the right. Taking the Bellevue cable car you’ll reach the Bellevue Plateau in minutes. It’s then just a 5 minute walk (very well signposted) to pick up the variant trail. Cross the railway tracks and follow the path for Col du Tricot. After traversing the alpine meadows with views of the spectacular Bionnassay glacier you’ll cross the iconic Himalayan suspension bridge. After a short climb you’ll come to a clearing with several large boulders – the view of the glacier is a good one from here and it’s great spot to have lunch. If you look carefully here you’ll find wild bilberry bushes everywhere. You can now see the top of the Col du Tricot before you. It’s a steady climb up to the grassy saddle. Spend some time here to admire the views over the Miage Valley and over to the Col du Bonhomme. You can spot Refuge Miage far down in the valley. If you look carefully to your left, you’ll see a stone archway on the ‘smugglers route’ to Refuge Plan Glacier. The descent down is STEEP and takes around an hour. Take it easy and use your poles. Reaching the valley floor follow the signs to reach Refuge Miage in just 5 minutes. Departing from Refuge Miage you’ll have an initial short climb from the Miage Valley up and over to Auberge du Truc. Approximate time and distances: 14.7km / 1455m up / 740m down / 5-6 hours trekking 9.1m / 4773ft up / 2427ft down / 5-6 hours trekking

Auberge du Truc - Refuge Bonhomme

From Auberge du Truc it’s a long steady descent through the forest into Les Contamines. Have a leisurely coffee in this small French town before walking along the river to Notre Dame de la Gorge where the trail heads out into the wild once more. If you’re trekking in July or August you can pick up the free shuttle bus (navette) outside the Les Contamines Tourist Office to Notre Dame de la Gorge. Take a moment to visit the beautiful Notre Dame de la Gorge chapel next to the gushing water before setting out on the well marked path. Warning – the trail is VERY steep here along an ancient slabbed Roman road to Refuge Nant Borrant but pleasantly flanks the bubbling racing gorge for much of the ascent. Be sure to look out for the pont naturel sign leading to a natural arch on the river, just a few minutes from the trail (navigate down a steep, mud track – I normally leave my backpack at the top!). Cross the roman bridge, take in the rushing gorge below. Expect to hike for around an hour from Notre Dame de la Gorge to Refuge Nant Borrant which makes an excellent lunch stop. This afternoon you’ll make the climb over two mountain passes Col du Bonhomme (2329m) and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2483m). You’ll stay in the cavernous Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme, a high mountain refuge with epic views. This is one of the most remote high mountain huts on the trail so bring your adventure spirit with you. Bunks and storage are excellent & dinner is unforgettable served by candle light to save solar power. Approximate time and distances: 16.9km / 1361m up / 635m down / 5-6 hours trekking 10.5m / 4465ft up / 2083m down / 5-6 hours trekking

Refuge Bonhomme - Val Veny

Today you’ll descend from Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme to the hamlet of Les Chapieux and then embark on the steady climb up to the top of the Col de la Seigne – the border between France and Italy! From here, in good weather, you can once again see the gleaming white dome of Mont Blanc with an exceptional view down into this Italian valley. Dropping down into the Vallée Lee Blanche you’ll marvel at this wide U shaped valley with the fortress of the Mont Blanc Massif dominating to your left. It’s all downhill from here to Refugio Elisabetta – a cavernous refuge perched on a spur just below two glaciers. You’ll either stay at Refugio Elisabetta or 1 hour further in Cabane Combal. Approximate time and distances: 18.7km / 1032m up / 1288m down / 5-6 hours trekking 11.6m / 3385ft up / 4225ft down / 5-6 hours trekking

Val Veny - Courmayeur

Todays hike takes you up out of the Val Veny 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 before descending down into the Italian town of Courmayeur. 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. The descent from Maison Vielle is brutal so if you’re weary or just want to spend longer in the lovely Italian town of Courmayeur this is definitely a good option. Approximate time and distances: 15.7km / 540m up / 1532m down / 5.5-7.5 hours trekking 9.7m / 1771ft up / 5026ft down / 5.5 - 7.5 hours trekking

Courmayeur - Val Ferret

Today starts with a push up to the Bertone hut for a late morning Italian coffee. Here, if the weather is good and it’s not early season (14 June – approximately July 7th) you can take the Mont Saxe variant to incorporate an extra peak: it takes a bit longer but it really is a stunning day – not many people, breathtaking scenery and avoids the crowds on the traditional balcony route. You’ll reach the delightful Rifugio Bonatti hut, where you will either stay (based on availability) or make the easy 30 minute descent down to the valley floor to make your way to the hotel there, or back to Courmayeur for your accommodation. Approximate time and distances: 12.1km / 1088m up / 263m down / 4-5 hours trekking 7.5m / 3569ft up / 862ft down / 4-5 hours trekking

Val Ferret - La Fouly

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 gentle trail gradually 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! Approximate time and distances: 18.6km / 907m up / 1331m down / 5.5-7 hours trekking 11.5m / 2975 ft up / 4366ft down / 5.5-7 hours trekking

La Fouly - Champex

Today is the most gentle day of all the TMB stages. There is no col to climb and the route meanders easily through the valley past Swiss mountain pastures. Drink in the delightful scenes of rural life in Switzerland as you potter leisurely along this stage. Many trekkers actually choose to omit this stage opting to take the bus but for trekkers who are intent to complete the entire route this is a lovely day that your tired legs will be grateful for. Champex-Lac, your home for the night is 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. Approximate time and distances: 14.8km / 578m up / 709m down / 3-4 hours trekking 9.1m / 1896ft up / 2326ft down / 3-4 hours trekking

Champex - Trient

Today you’ll leave the serenity of beautiful Champex-Lac and take the Bovine route to the Col de la Forclaz and then drop down into the Swiss village of Trient, famous for it’s pink church, to spend the night. The variant route via the Col du Fenêtre can be considered instead of the Bovine route but only in good weather, and only in peak season (not to be attempted in June, possibly in first week of July). Note this route is technically the most difficult on the entire TMB trail – the trail can be hard to follow and crosses a boulder field. It’s a much more difficult route however much more spectacular. Approximate time and distances: 16.7km / 856m up / 1052m down / 4-5 hours trekking 10.3m / 2808ft up / 3444ft down / 4-5 hours trekking

Trient - Tre le Champ

Today you’ll ascend from Trient up the Col du Balme. It’s a gradual climb and not too taxing. From Refuge Col de Balme perched on the Swiss side, you’ll have a splendid view of the entire Chamonix Valley – well done you’ve almost completed the circuit! You can now see where you set off from down the other end of the valley and Mont Blanc will be ever present with her snowy dome to the left of the valley. Descend down into France to the saddle of Col des Posettes before ascending the rock spine ridge to L’Aiguillette des Posettes (2201m). L’Aiguillette des Posettes forms the beginning of the impressive northern flank of the Chamonix Valley. In good weather the 360 degree panorama here will take your breath away – the icy dome of Mont Blanc, the iconic spire of the Drus, the Aiguilles Verte as well as Glacier du Tour Lac Blanc and the Lac d’Emosson dam over your shoulder in Switzerland. Bear in mind this high route along the Posette ridge should never be taken in bad weather – the ridge is known for lightning strikes. The descent down to Tré-le-Champ is brutal. Take your time. Home for the night is at the historical Auberge de la Bœrne. Approximate time and distances: 13.9km / 1151m up / 1024m down / 4-5 hours trekking 8.6m / 3776ft up / 3359ft down / 4-5 hours trekking

Tre le Champ - Lac Blanc - Flegere

The well marked trail has a knee jarring descent from the L’Aiguillette des Posettes eventually meandering through the forest to pop out on the main road winding up to the Col des Montets. From here you’ll begin the 3 hours climb up to Lac Blanc. The route climbs steadily for between 1.5-2 hrs 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 – teenagers will love it! This is the Aiguille Rouge National Park so look out for chamois or bouquetin – there’s a good chance of seeing them, often just on the trail. A further hour up brings you to Tête aux Vents, a large cairn (2132m) which borders the national park. From there you can choose to deviate from the trail and ascend a further 1hr 30 mins to reach stunning Lac Blanc (2,352m) or turn down to follow the trail to Refuge La Flégère, a further 60-90 minutes. Approximate time and distances: 8.2km / 997m up / 510m down / 3-4 hours trekking 5km / 3271ft up / 1673ft down / 3-4 hours trekking

Flegere - Les Houches

Today you’ll continue along the Balcon Sud with it’s staggering views of Mont Blanc to reach Le Brévent. Choose to take the cable car up to the peak or hike the route that ascends behind that entails a couple of ladder sections. Soak in the magnificent views of Mont Blanc from the top of Le Brévent – undoubtedly the best viewing point of the highest point in Western Europe! From here you’ll descend on the stony trail along the ridge line to Refuge Bellachat – a great spot for a refreshment with again insane views of Mont Blanc from their lovely sunny terrace. The descent into Les Houches is brutally long – watch those knees! However the pink wild azaleas that line the path are beautiful and there’s a high chance of spotting chamois and bouquetins as you descend. Approximate time and distances: 17.4km / 811m up / 1682m down / 4-5 hours trekking 10.8m / 2660ft up / 5518ft down / 4-5 hours trekking

Are you ready?

Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Tour du Mont Blanc Self Guided 11 Days trip is rated Level B, for those with some prior experience We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.

For beginners and newcomers

• You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure
• Little / no prior experience
• Shorter time duration
• No technical skills required but keen to learn
• Basic level of fitness

More your level?

For those with some prior experience

• You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
• You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
• Some basic skills
• Moderate fitness

Think you've got this?

This trip is at this level

For accomplished adventurers

• You enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally
• You’re comfortable on multi-day adventures and you call yourself an avid adventurer
• You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it is there' attitude
• Strong level of fitness

For the pros

• You're ready to test your skills on the next challenge
• You're comfortable in most types of alpine environments
• Some level of technical skills

For the experts

• You’ve been on multiple adventures and have built up a solid skillset to tackle most challenges out there
• Good technical skills and knowledge
• Experienced in alpine/mountains environments
• Very high level of fitness

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Tour du Mont Blanc (8 days; private rooms)

The self-guided hiking tour around Mont Blanc is among the most iconic classic must-do treks. The Mont Blanc massif is without a doubt one of the most beautiful sights in the Alps. Even though the route does not take you all the way to the top of the emblematic summit, it guides you from France to Italy and Switzerland revealing its many faces. Do not let this fool you, the walk is fairly demanding, but undoubtedly rewarding. You will contemplate alpine peaks and beautiful glaciers during the day and enjoy French and Italian cooking and Swiss hospitality as you rest in the comfort of your accommodations along the way. The trails are well-marked with red and white stripes in France and higher parts in Switzerland and a black diamond shape on a yellow background in the valleys of Italy and Switzerland. The markings are with good density and facing both directions. Even so, you will be walking under the guidance of a well-elaborated Roadbook to ensure a marvelous experience.

Why we have chosen the clockwise direction? The first Cicerone guide book to the Tour of Mont Blanc described the route in the anti-clockwise direction, which made this course more popular for years afterwards, although its later editions described the circuit in both directions. Walking in clockwise direction has loads of merits, the most persuasive being that by travelling ‘against the flow’ one meets different people at each night’s rest, while during the first hour or two of the walking day the path is virtually empty, then comes a wave of trekkers followed by another period of calm. Further to that when following the original anti-clockwise trend there are nearly always other walkers in view. For many hikers this is distracting. As for the steepness or otherwise of ascents and descents, there’s little to choose between the two options.

Walking Grade/ Difficulty

See more here

• Destination Switzerland
• Duration 8 Days I Level: 4 (of 5)
• What is included Roadbook (itinerary description in English and detailed walking maps - 1 set per reservation; GPS tracks); 2 nights in hotel (incl. breakfast) and 5 nights in hotel or very comfortable gîte incl. breakfast and dinner; private rooms (no shared dorms!); luggage transfers (1 piece, 10kg per person; options to drop additional luggage in Chamonix); bus transfer on Day 3; emergency support
• What is not included drinks, other meals and transfers (picnic lunches can be ordered on spot in the accommodations the previous evening at the price of 12-17 Euros/person), local bus tickets (appr. 30 Euros per person), lift tickets (appr. 20 Euros per person), personal expenses, mountain insurance, entry fees;
• Best period mid-June, July, August, mid-September

FROM OUR GALLERY

Self-guided hiking tour around the Mont Blanc

Day 1: ARRIVAL IN CHAMONIX

Day 2: chamonix - argentiere (11-13km; 6.30hrs; +600/-950km), day 3: trient – champex (13-16km; 6hrs; +1100m/-750m or 6.30hrs; +1300/-970m), day 4: champex – grand col ferret - italian val ferret - courmayeur (17km; 6hrs; +850m/-800m), day 5: courmayeur - col de la seigne – les chapieux (15-20km; 6.30hrs; +850m/-650m), day 6: les chapieux – les contamines (15km; 6.30hrs; +850m/-1500m), day 7: les contamines - montjoie - les houches - chamonix (13-16km; 5hrs; +750m/-800m or 6.30hrs; +1100m/-1250m), day 8: departure, tour location.

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Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du mont blanc packages.

• About the TMB
• Self-Guided Tour
• Guided Tour
• Guided & Self Guided Tour Prices

Client-shot video of the TMB

Highlights of the Tour

Places to stay, nant borrant.

• Eccles Refuge

Style of Trek

• Tour du Mont Blanc – Budget Trek
• Tour du Mont Blanc – Guided
• Tour du Mont Blanc – Self Guided

The Nant Borrant refuge (mountain hut) is situated just over 5km south from the centre of Les Contamines village. It is located directly on the… ...

Located half-way around the Tour du Mont Blanc, hikers often stay in Courmayeur, or one of the surrounding villages, for two days. Normally this is… ...

Located within the commune of Courmayeur, La Palud is a village which serves as a good place to stop for one or two nights when… ...

La Fouly (1600m) is a small village on the Swiss sector of the Tour du Mont Blanc and is at the road-head of the great… ...

Champex Lac is located in the North East sector of the Tour du Mont Blanc. If trekking in a clockwise direction from Chamonix you arrive… ...

Located at the northern end of the Chamonix Valley, Argentiere (1230m) is a large village offering a more peaceful alternative to Chamonix town. There are… ...

News Articles & Blogs

Tour du Mont Blanc Q&As from clients

What time is the airport transfer and planned briefing dinner schedule? Don’t worry about the timing – the driver will be there to pick you up at whatever time is convenient to you. We just need the flight number and arrival time. We don’t do one group transfer on arrival. The same goes for when …

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Tour du Mont Blanc – Q & A – Part 1

How much should I budget for dinner when it’s not included? Do you have any recommendations of where to eat? Dinner for the other nights: approx. 25 euros per dinner. The Guide will recommend where to eat. Is there hot water every day to shower? Yes there is. What is the age range on your …

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Tour du Mont Blanc: Facts 

Tour du Mont Blanc distance The Tour du Mont Blanc is approximately 170km /106 miles long although has some variantes that add to this distance. Most people choose to do the TMB in 8 – 10 days and stay at hotels or refuges en-route. Each daily stage varies in length, but are generally 16-22km / …

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Holidaying in the Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du Mont Blanc Holiday Highlights The Tour du Mont Blanc is justifiably one of World’s most famous  hiking trails. Popular with people from all over the world, notably Europe, USA, Canada and Australasia. Hiking through the Alpine landscapes with spectacular mountain views. Hotels and other accommodation are generally very good for a point to point …

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What is the Tour du Mont Blanc?

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the greatest walks in the world. It is just over 165 kilometres long, crosses at least six big mountain passes and the route makes its way through France, Italy and Switzerland. The scenery, villages, food and culture is interesting and varied. Above all, is the massive feeling of achievement once you have hiked the full circuit of the Mont Blanc massif.

How fit do you have to be to do the tour?

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a long-distance hiking route that often forms part of an enthusiastic trekker’s tick-list. Together with other well-known trails such as Everest Base Camp, Machu Picchu and summiting Kilimanjaro, the TMB is a memorable world-class trek. However, unlike the other treks there are no issues with high altitude and so it can be comfortably completed by anyone who is fit.It is easily accessible and takes only one hour from Geneva Airport to the Chamonix Valley where most people begin the trek.

How long is the trek?

Walking, trekking, hiking the Tour Du Mont Blanc can be a challenge. The trek can take anywhere between 5 and 12 days to complete: most people will complete 8 to 10 daily walking sections and cover 12-20km per day. Each day will involve a significant ascent – most often up to 1000 metres – and then a similar descent to your night-stop. And while you trek you will see constant changes in scenery, meet lots of fellow trekkers and feel changes to the temperature. As you climb higher, the air becomes cooler and it is not uncommon to change from shorts and T-shirts into long trousers and a fleece jacket in a matter of minutes. Weather on Mont Blanc can be varied: you can expect warm, sunny days, but it is not unusual to have frontal weather systems bringing cold and wet weather. Thankfully, these are not too common.

Is age a barrier to the Tour Du Mont Blanc?

So long as you are confident of your fitness, enjoy being outdoors for most of the day and love a good trek, the trek is accessible to anyone. Our previous clients have ranged in age from 14 to 82.

What are the best hotels and refuges?

There are a variety of places to stay from simple mountain huts (refuges) with dormitory-style sleeping arrangements to three-star hotels offering rooms with attached bathrooms. Most people are pleasantly surprised at the quality of hotels on the TMB – and it is one of the unique features of this hike. Many other long-distance hikes, such as the GR10 that runs length of the Pyrenees or the GR20 that traverses the spine of Corsica, are fabulous treks, but only offer mountain huts on many of the nights. The Tour du Mont Blanc offers good accommodation on all nights – and it is possible to have twin rooms on all nights. This makes it more attractive to those who want a bit more comfort.

What kind of scenery, flora and fauna will you see?

The high and snow-covered Alpine peaks are spectacular. Many of them are over 4000 metres high and have glaciers tumbling down their precipitous sides. Aside from Mont Blanc itself, you will see famous mountains such as Les Drus, Les Grandes Jorasses, Le Vert and the ominous Aiguille du Midi. All of these have been a magnet to climbers and adventurers for over two centuries: Mont Blanc was first climbed in 1786. For hikers, you find yourself constantly stopping and gazing at the jaw-dropping views.

The wild flowers are beautiful: the best time to come is late June and early July, just as the winter snows have melted, when you are sure to see orchids, gentians and primulas. There are the forests full of rhododendrons and massive conifer trees and you will perhaps eat the blueberries and wild strawberries found by the trail.

Wild and domesticated animals are common place. There are herds of sheep, goats and cows, looked after by farmers and shepherds. But the real fun is when you spot a wild Alpine ibex (bouquetin), mountain goat-antelope (chamois) or perhaps a stoat. The birds are varied and sightings of lammergeyers and eagles are not uncommon.

Should you take a guided or self-guided tour of Mont Blanc?

This is purely a matter of individual choice. Some people prefer to go alone or enjoy the trek with a friend. Others prefer the security and professionalism of trekking with a Guide who will have a good knowledge of the route, take care of the hotels, meals and transport and be able to quickly react if there is an emergency. All trekking guides on the Tour du Mont Blanc have to be fully qualified and part of the governing body called UIMLA: it is a legal requirement in the Alps.

Self-Guided Classic Tour du Mont Blanc Express

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Itinerary At a Glance

France, chamonix to les chapieux.

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

Italy, Courmayeur

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

Switzerland, Champex to Trient

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

France, Argentiere and Chamonix

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

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

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

Full Itinerary

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

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

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

les Contamines

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

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

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

les Chapieux or Bourg St Maurice

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

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

Note: no single rooms here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tour Options

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

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

Self-guided Classic Tour du Mont Blanc

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

Self-guided Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc

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

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Tour du mont blanc walking holidays.

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the most spectacular trekking trips in the world. Alpine Treks specialise in the Tour du Mont Blanc trek and offer a large choice of guided and self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc walking holidays. The T our du Mont Blanc is a circular trek around Mont Blanc , s tarting and ending in the famous Chamonix valley. The TMB pas s through three alpine countries along the way (France, Italy, and Switzerland), which makes for a diverse and unforgettable alpine walking experience.

For more information about the TMB, please read our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc and explore our trips below:

TMB Classic, Guided - 10 days walking, 1 rest day, 13 days holiday - Walk the entire classic Tour du Mont Blanc - Start and finish in historic Chamonix - Comfortable accommodation and great food - Luggage transfers included £ 2895 p.p.

TMB Express, Guided - 7 days walking, 9 days holiday - Walk the Tour du Mont Blanc in one week - Experience the Tour du Mont Blanc highlights - Great accommodation and excellent food - Luggage transfers included From £ 2295 p.p.

TMB Half West, Guided - 4 days walking, 6 days holiday - Walk half of the classic Tour du Mont Blanc - From Chamonix to Courmayeur. - Comfortable accommodation and great food - Luggage transfers included From £ 1595 p.p.

TMB Half East, Guided - 6 days walking, 8 days holiday - Walk half of the classic Tour du Mont Blanc - From Courmayeur to Chamonix. - Comfortable accommodation and great food - Luggage transfers included From £ 1995 p.p.

TMB Classic, Self Guided - 10 days walking, 12 days holiday - Walk the entire classic Tour du Mont Blanc - Start and finish in historic Chamonix - Route cards, maps, organisation and advice - Luggage transfers and rest days available £ 1895 p.p.

TMB Express, Self Guided - 7 days walking, 9 days holiday - Walk the Tour du Mont Blanc in one week - Experience the Tour du Mont Blanc highlights - Route cards, maps, organisation and advice - Luggage transfers and rest days available £ 1795 p.p.

TMB Half West, Self Guided - 4 days walking, 6 days holiday - Walk half of the classic Tour du Mont Blanc - From Chamonix to Courmayeur - Route cards, maps, organisation and advice - Luggage transfers and rest days available £ 1295 p.p.

TMB Half East, Self Guided - 6 days walking, 8 days holiday - Walk half the classic Tour du Mont Blanc - From Courmayeur to Chamonix - Route cards, maps, organisation and advice - Luggage transfers and rest days available £ 1495 p.p.

Good reasons to chose Alpine Treks for your Tour du Mont Blanc walking holiday

Experience! Alpine Treks has specialised in running Tour du Mont Blanc walking holidays since 2007. Our itineraries are well-proven and our logistics are top-class, whether you choose one of our guided or self-guided itineraries.

Our TMB start and finish in Chamonix! Chamonix is a buzzing, historic mountain town with a plethora of cafe’s, restaurants and shops and is worth a visit in it’s own right. It would be a shame not to spend time in this wonderful place and soak up the atmosphere before and after your trek.

Bag transfers are included! We have included bag transfers to our overnight destinations wherever possible on our guided trips (optional on self-guided trips), which means that you can hike with a light pack and focus on enjoying the trip.

Our TMB is flexible! Book our basic trip and then upgrade with optional extras to design your perfect trip - private rooms, luxury hotels etc.

Our Guides are second to none! It’s a big claim, but one that our many happy customers are happy to confirm. Our guides are certified, full-time professionals with extensive experience on the TMB. They happen to be extremely friendly, patient and helpful too!

Small, personal groups! We never have more than 8 people in our groups per guide. This makes it a more personal experience where we can look after individual’s needs.

Great value! We’re a small company with minimal overheads, so the money you spend on a trip goes towards providing an excellent service.

No hidden cost! We are completely open about what is included in your trip. No surprises with us!

Chose your preferred dates! In addition to our scheduled trips, we can arrange a private departure for you at any time that suits you.

What our customers say:

"Lexie and I had a wonderful experience on our trek. Not sure how you managed to bring us sunshine daily but it was much appreciated. Richard was the perfect guide. Thanks for a once in a lifetime experience!" Gayle McKnight

"The daily organisation was excellent and Mark's knowledge of the geology, history and geography of the area made for an unforgettable experience. For a while we were on top of the world! We had a fantastic and memorable time and we will be using Alpine Treks again to explore other routes in the Alps." Lindsay and Terry Crowther

"Enjoyed a fantastic hike around Mt Blanc. Our guide was a local so knew the area extremely well.The accommodation was varied, from hotels to refuges,and I found the night at the refuge an absolute highlight. The hiking can be challenging...a great experience and I'm keen to do another." Carol

Frequently asked questions about our trekking and walking holidays

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Alpine Treks Limited 2 The Abbey Coach House, Staveley, Kendal LA8 9LR, UK UK company no. 06957454

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Availability on the TMB for 2024 is limited! Search  other amazing Alpine trips , or book for 2025

Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking Tours

Tour du mont blanc.

• Hike Europe's incredible, world-famous long-distance Alpine route
• Awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views at every bend of the trail
• Three countries in one hike; France, Italy & Switzerland
• Savor delicious classic cuisine, from tasty cheeses to local wines
• Stay in traditional alpine mountain huts or cozy historic hotels
• Hassle-free hiking: all our trips include bag transfer & 24/7 phone support

Circling Western Europe's highest mountain, Mont Blanc (15,780 ft), this 100-mile alpine trail crosses through three beautiful European countries- France, Italy and Switzerland. With far-reaching landscapes, wildflower meadows, high mountain passes, and snow-covered peaks, this glorious route is the epitome of an alpine adventure. The unmatched sunsets and alpenglow are the perfect complement to the unique mountain culture of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Not only do we have unrivaled knowledge and expertize in the area, we’ve also sent thousands of Macs customers on the TMB and refined our tours to provide the most fulfilling self-guided hiking experience. Self-guided hiking means having the freedom to explore independently at your own pace, along well-waymarked routes, with our 24/7 first-class support. The hiking days are consistently long and remote, making it a suitable accomplishment for the experienced long-distance hiker.

The option to choose between the Complete Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort , staying in cozy hotels, and the Tour du Mont Blanc in Huts , staying in traditional mountain huts, allows hikers to choose their experience based on their preferences. Staying in the huts not only immerses you in the mountain culture but also fosters comradery with fellow hikers, adding to the overall sense of adventure and community.

Featured Tours - Tour du Mont Blanc

Complete Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort

Highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort

Complete Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort (extended)

Complete Tour du Mont Blanc in Huts

Highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc in Huts

Classic Walks of Mont Blanc

Discover tour du mont blanc.

It's an awesome, long distance circular hike around the mountain of Mont Blanc, crossing three countries – France, Switzerland and Italy.

We've constructed various routes to choose from. Complete the full route , which is around 100 miles or if you're short of vacation time, just the best stages .

The highest elevation you'll reach is 8,823 ft, which is at the mountain pass ‘Grand Col Ferret’. This is on the Italy / Swiss border – so you can have your feet in both countries!

July to mid-September is the time to travel. Outside this period snow can be problematic.

There's a lot of ascent– in total a staggering 34,776 ft but the incredible views and experience you're rewarded with, make the journey worth it!

HUTS - Tours In Huts

Traditional mountain huts (refuges/rifugios) create a sense of comradery, mountain culture, and good spirits. Dining is a communal event where one pot meals served by the local hut owners are enjoyed round a long table with other travelers. This is often a highlight where memories are made. Chat with fellow trekkers, exchange stories from the previous days, and get excited about future hikes.

The beds are set up dormitory style and are either bunk beds or raised mattresses next to each other. The dorm rooms range from sleeping 4 to 20 people and are mixed gender. The huts have shared and mixed gender restroom facilities.

COMFORT - Tours In Comfort

The 'In Comfort' tours offer overnight stays in historic alpine hotels nestled in iconic TMB mountain towns. We hand-pick the hotels for their location, welcoming staff members, and local cuisine.

On some nights there are no alternatives to mountain huts. In these instances, we try to book you in a private room. These will most likely have shared restroom facilities and may not have a double bed option.

The best place to view all the tours together is in the ‘featured tours' on this page. From here you can select your tour depending on the below questions.

• The majority of days are 12 miles longs with ascent and descent.
• How many days am I able to walk back to back this distance
• How fit do I need to be for the TMB
• We offer 14 days / 12 days / 8 days or 5 day tours.
• Hotels with the odd night in a private room in a refuge
• Huts in dormitories rooms

We have several excellent blogs with further information, our favorites are: 25 Frequently Asked Questions and Top tips for hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Raclette - A type of cheese that's melted and eaten with potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions and cured A type of melted cheese that is enjoyed with potatoes, cucumbers, pickled onions and cured meats. Raclette is just as delicious as it is filling. Depending on the hut, the cheese will either be melted over a personal table-top grill or a massive hot iron and will coat your plate and toppings.

Tartiflette - Reblochon cheese melted over a mixture of potatoes, onions, bacon and chives. It's the epitome of alpine comfort food—providing the perfect balance of warmth and satisfaction, especially after a long day on the trail.

Rosti - A Swiss version of Tartiflette that includes grated fried potatoes covered in Gruyére cheese and topped with ham and often a fried egg. Mushrooms are also often added, traditionally foraged from the surrounding hills.

Beers - If you enjoy a drink, be sure to look out for Bierre Leman and Veyrat - two local beers that are often served in the area.

Wine - There's a French belief that wine expresses the characteristics of the area it's grown in. If you enjoy wine, we absolutely recommend you taste the local varieties along the way!

Génépi - A local liqueur often enjoyed after dinner, Génépi tends to be an acquired taste with a sweet herbal chamomile and absinthe flavor. We encourage anyone with adventurous palates to try this!

Great news - Luggage transfer is included as standard. This means you are able to enjoy the hiking with just your essentials in your daypack.

Our responsible and friendly baggage handlers will take you main suitcase/luggage to your next overnight destination. As they move hundreds of bags each day, they can only accommodate one 33lbs bag, per person.

The Bonatti Refuge and Lac Blanc Refuge are incredible alpine mountain huts that you may stay in during your trip. Due to their remote location, they are inaccessible by road. Therefore, you will need to carry your overnight items on these days if you are booked in Bonatti or Lac Blanc, but no stress, you will be reunited with your main bag the following day!

Availability dependent, the 'complete' TMB tours will have an overnight at Refugio Bonatti, and the 'complete in huts' will have nights in both Bonatti and Lac Blanc.

Macs Adventure has been running self-guided hiking adventures on the Tour du Mont Blanc since 2010.

Follow Bill and Malin on their TMB journey! 

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Everything You Need To Know About Hiking The Tour du Mont Blanc

A s an avid hiker, you’ve probably heard of the Tour du Mont Blanc or TMB hiking trail. You might even have plans to conquer this popular hiking destination one day. If so, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

In 1760, a Swiss Geologist and physicist, Horace-Bénédict de Saussure, then living in Geneva, discovered the TMB hiking trail. Saussure wanted to explore the Mont du Blanc Mountains to examine and document plant specimens. Also called the Mont Blanc massif, the mountain range is 60 miles by 20 miles long, with 11 summits over 4,000 meters high. Though he discovered it in 1760, Saussure first walked around the entire TMB hiking path in 1767.

Unfortunately, the Swiss scientist failed to climb one of its peaks on that initial journey around the path. The first to achieve this feat were Michel Paccard and Jacques Balmat. The two found a path to the apex in 1786 through the Grands Mulets route. Sausurre became the third person to reach the summit shortly thereafter.

Trail Overview 

Though Pacard and Balmat first reached the peak of the Mont Blanc massif via the Grands Mulets route, the Gouter route is today’s standard path. This trail is 105 miles long and passes through 3 countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland . The Gouter Route (also known as the Voie Des Cristalliers and Voie Royale) is one of the two most commonly utilized routes to reach the summit of Mont Blanc in the Alps. Though the Gouter route reaches an elevation of 15,774 ft, it is considered the most straightforward ascent. The route lies on the north side of the mountain, in France, seeing thousands of mountaineers annually. 

The Tour du Mont Blanc difficulty level is somewhat subjective to the hiker. The Gouter route is relatively easy because it takes about two days to reach the ascent and does not require extensive technical skills. Nonetheless, it is physically demanding and mentally challenging if you lack athletic ability. The most difficult aspect of this route includes a narrow passageway of unstable rocks on the mountain’s edge. Seventy-four have died, and 180 were injured in accidents along this dangerous segment between 1990 and 2011. 

Once passing this tricky part, the Gouter route is smooth sailing. It steadily increases in steepness while crossing exposed terrain. Hazardous weather conditions are the most dangerous aspects that remain. Cold and wet conditions can cause hypothermia and frostbite. Therefore, visiting the Tour du Mont Blanc for Summer hiking, Mid-June to mid-September, is safest. During the summer, temperatures will range from 40 degrees at night to 80 degrees during the day. Some days require shorts beneath a warm, sunny sky ; others might entail brisk, wet conditions.

Permits And Regulations

No permits are required for the TMB and there are no regulatory restrictions. However, some believe a technical skills test could reduce deaths and injuries along the path. Additionally, residents are disturbed by the amount of trash that hikers inevitably abandon to lighten their loads on the ascent. What’s interesting about the Tour du Mont Blanc is that there are many comforts along the path in the form of hotels and huts. Several companies offer self-guided packages that include accommodations, detailed hiking guides, and set itineraries. 

Trail Highlights And Points Of Interest

The Tour du Mont Blanc hike is considered one of the world’s top ten “bucket list” hiking trails. In addition to the soothing sounds of waterfalls , there are glaciers, streams, high alpine meadows, and the natural beauty of the Mont Blanc landscape. Among the most beautiful and visible flora are the rare Slipper Orchid, the Martagon Lily, Aquilegia Alpha, the famous Edelweiss, and rare Campanula thyrsoides. Though heavily impacted by human presence, the animals that remain in the wilderness of the Mont Blanc massif include Marmots, Ravens, Goats, Mountain Hares, Vultures, and Eagles, among others. 

Safety Considerations

On the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail, the most important considerations will be comfortable shoes and a good quality backpack with appropriate dimensions and weight.  What qualifies as an appropriately sized bag will depend on whether you stick to hiking the trail or detour slightly to local huts and hotels. The former will require a 60L bag, and the latter will require a 30L bag. Remember to break in your footwear a few months in advance and buy shoes larger than usual to accommodate swollen, achy feet. Trekking poles will help lessen aches and pains experienced in the knee and leg muscles. Hiking crampons are a “better safe than sorry” item to add to your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. They will help maintain balance and avoid slipping across waterways and snow patches, which might even save a life! 

In case of an emergency, administer first aid, note location and grid reference on a map, call for help (cell phone service is generally available along the TMB). If no phone is available, blow a whistle or flash a flashlight six times. If there is an injured person, carefully consider whether to go for help or stay with the injured. If the injured party stays behind, leave them with food, water, and warm clothes. 

Planning and Preparation

Being physically prepared for the TMB hike is a necessary safety precaution. Training should start at least three months in advance and should be in layered clothing, hiking boots, and a fully packed backpack to best simulate trail conditions. Other things that require planning include booking accommodations along the trail and deciding how many days to stay. An itinerary will vary depending on whether two days, two weeks, or even two months are set aside to experience the beauty of TMB. 

Most hikers can ascend the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided if interested. The trail is easy to follow, with well-maintained paths, directional markings, and clearly understood signs. However, map reading skills are essential, and hikers should also carry a guidebook. 

People Ask: Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Q: What is the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail?

A: The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170-kilometer hiking trail that circles the Mont Blanc massif in the Alps, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Tour du Mont Blanc?

A: The entire trail takes about 10 to 12 days to complete.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

A: The best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is from mid June to mid September, when the weather is typically mild and the trails are clear of snow.

Q: Are there any accommodations along the trail?

A: Yes, there are many accommodations available along the Tour du Mont Blanc, including hotels, hostels, and mountain huts.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide for the hike?

A: No, it is not necessary to hire a guide for the hike. The trail is well-marked and there are many resources available for hikers.

Q: How difficult is the hike?

A: The hike is considered to be moderately difficult, with some steep ascents and descents.

Q: What should I pack for the hike?

A:You should pack appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothing, and rain gear. You should also bring a map, a compass, and plenty of water and snacks.

Q: Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?

A: Yes, there are some safety concerns to be aware of, including potential hazards such as steep drops, loose rocks, and unpredictable weather. It is important to stay on the marked trail and to be prepared for changing conditions.

Q: Can I hike the trail in sections?

A: Yes, it is possible to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in sections, with many hikers choosing to focus on one or two sections at a time.

Q: What are some of the highlights of the hike?

A: Some highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc include stunning views of the Alps, charming mountain villages, and the opportunity to experience the unique cultures of France, Italy, and Switzerland.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a renowned hiking trail accommodating hikers from across the globe. It is mentally and physically challenging, but efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views along the route. The TMB is accessible with or without a guided tour, as there is food, water, emergency services, accommodations, and other modern amenities along the path. With a reasonable amount of advanced preparation, physical training, thoughtful packing, and a conscientious “Leave no trace” mindset, this unforgettable journey is worth experiencing for yourself. 

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Tour du Mont Blanc Trail Conditions Full Report

16th june 2024.

Vic Chelton one of our experienced guides has been out on the Tour du Mont Blanc this week to experience the current conditions. This is what she has to say...

The Alpine trekking Season has officially started and Conditions on the trails of the TMB are Tough at the present Moment.

Another year of  Heavy Snowfall  from March - April Followed by a wet and cold spring have made Trekking in June Tougher than previous years.

Having been out exploring the cols (mountain passes) and trail conditions. 

2024 Season is much more Challenging than a regular June.

There is a lot of deep snow Above 2000m , which means passing through any of the high cols involves winter style trekking.

For the most part of June, there will be a lot of time for hiking on snow.

For your own safety it's compulsory to be well equipped with good footwear, trail spikes/ lightweight crampons and trekking poles. 

Most of the trails above 2000m involve spending most of time hiking on snow.

This season the snow still remains deep and consistent.

However there is a remarkable amount of people out travelling the TMB, the busiest June I have seen in 16 yrs guiding on this route.

Therefore there are good tracks to follow through any of the snow fields/ passages making route finding and snow conditions easier to follow.

However there are some sections that require a steady head and good equipment, the tracks are easy to follow but a slip could be fatal in some areas.

Below 2000m due to a wet spring the trail conditions are very muddy which can make hiking equally more challenging.

As the temperatures become warmer, the snow conditions will become more problematic, as  holes will appear mostly around gully beds and stream crossings. 

The consistent snow above 2000m presently means the actual main trail is buried, but easy to follow as many people have created a track to follow in the snow.

Equally as the snow start to melt, route finding will  need more focus and additionally create more muddy paths until the summer weather dries out the terrain.

In this report I give an update of notable points for some of the main sections and high cols also logistics to provide advice to aid your journey.

Equally as the TMB is very busy, it's also a great opportunity to chat with fellow trekkers and also ask each local refuge/ hotel for updated information as the weather and conditions continue to change.

Mont Blanc Treks will also keep a blog updated for important information .

Chamonix to Les Houches: The planpraz / Brevent lift only opened on Saturday 15th of June. So there haven't been many people trekking in this area.

There is still a lot of snow above 2000m and even on the starting path heading  up to col du Brevent there are some very big snow fields. Which are difficult to pass.

It's highly recommended to avoid taking this high level route as the section from Planpraz to Brevent has some exposed technical terrain which currently has a lot of snow . It will need some time for snow to melt to make it safe. 

Information will be updated.

It is safer and advisable to follow one of the lower level routes. 

For example; the trail starts from Chamonix up to the Brevent lift parking area then continues leftwards following signposts eventually arriving onto the main trail of Petit Balcon Sud .

From here follow the signs and the trail up to the Parc Merlet .

Then descend down to Les Houches

It is a wonderful way to ease your body into the first day of trekking .

Also gain some height and some great views of ....The Majestic Mont Blanc. 

If the weather allows. 

Les Houches to Les Contamines: After leaving the Village of Les Houches it's recommended to take the cable car of Bellevue as the hike up through the ski area is not so inspiring.

The lift opens at 07.30 and the price is 18 euros for a one way ticket / Aller simple.

The trail starting from the top of the Bellevue Lift up to the Col Du Tricot is snow free.

However the trail is very muddy, due to a wet and cold spring.

The passerelle/ suspension bridge is In place.

It is important to note that a new path was created 2 yrs ago .

Around the altitude of 18-1900m, see photo below.

It heads rightwards and zig zags up to Col du Tricot.

The old direct path has a lot of snow debris and is suffering from erosion. Therefore it's important to follow the signs and take the rightward trail.

The descent from Col du Tricot has no snow but the path is currently wet and muddy, so a slow descent.

The refuge of Chalet du Miage is open, so worthy of a break for a taste of it's famous myrtille tart or to buy the best omelette you will ever eat, if time allows.

It's another 2 hours minimum on trails without snow but maybe wet and muddy  to arrive at the beautiful village of Les Contamines..

If you have bag transfer arranged you do not need to carry your hiking spikes/ crampons for this day as it will not involve crossing snow.

Les Contamines to Chapieux & Refuge Mottets: This one of the toughest days of the tour. Be well prepared to spend at least 5-6 hrs Trekking on snow.

The path is snow free up to around 2000m up to the notable rockpile of the Plan des Dames. 50m beyond here the snow line starts

There is a small snow patch to cross just after arriving at the obvious power line tower 30 mins uphill after passing the Refuge la Balme

It's easily crossable about 50m wide ,but be wary of holes in the snow as it has a  big river below as you traverse, so attention is needed.

The refuge La Balme is opening soon for a last water refill  to get enough for the rest of the day. 

Equally use the Toilets and water fountain just before arriving at the refuge.

When you arrive at the rockpile of the Plan de dames 2000m, expect to be on Snow for 5 hrs.

Currently there is a large quantity of snow and many people have passed through so there is a very obvious trail to follow on the snow.

The snow is very forgiving and depending on the weather and conditions it can be possible to walk on without using spikes/ crampons up to the col du Bohomme as the track is well packed in. Equally it may be better to use your spikes depending on if you feel better with extra traction.

Photos are included to show you the route up to the Col du Bonhomme 2329m.

It is winter conditions at the moment so make sure you have lots of warm clothing.

The section between Col du Bonhomme and the highest point of Col de la Croix du Bonhomme is where much care and focus is needed.

It will take about 45mins to 1hr of traversing on continuous snow. The first 20 mins after leaving the Col du Bonhomme there are some very exposed slopes to cross with a good track to follow, but spikes/crampons are essential from this point onwards.  

Currently the volume of snow makes it easier to follow the trail and easier.

However, be warned that as the snow melts over the next few weeks, this section of trail will become more problematic as holes will emerge and route finding will be less obvious. Extra  focus is needed to follow the painted markers and signs.

From the highest point of Col de la Croix du Bonhomme 2483m.

You will see the junction to Col des Fours...... Do not attempt  to pass this direction. Its too dangerous with snow cover. It will need to be completely snow free so maybe in 3-4 weeks it will be possible

Head down to Les Chapieux passing the refuge of Bonhomme which is open for refreshments and toilets.

Expect 1.5hrs / 2hrs descent mostly on snow until 2000m , then can remove your spikes

Then expect some muddy trails to finish your day. 

If you are staying at the Refuge Mottets walk up the road to Ville des Glaciers & on to the refuge, allow 1h 30mins. See info in paragraph below.

There is very limited or zero telephone signal for most of this day an not any signal until at least you arrive into italy. Wifi can be paid for at the small shop in Les Chapieux. But be prepared to be without telephone signal for 24hrs at least.

It's important to ask the locals on current conditions to head up the valley to Refuge Mottets.

Currently it's only possible to hike up the road to the Ville des glacier . For The Moment it is unsafe to use the alternative trail on the right side of the valley. It has avalanche debris and can be prone to rockfall and landslide until the snow fully melts. 

A preferred option is to use the navette mini bus from Les Chapieux to avoid the long walk on a road to start your trekking day from ville des Glaciers.

It costs 4 euros and runs from 15th June to 15th september.

Check the timetable in the hamlet next to the toilet block, normally the first bus departs around 8 am.

From Ville des Glaciers the track is easy until the junction from Refuge Mottets. 

Here the ascent begins up to the Col de la Seigne 2516m, the border crossing into Italy.

You will very quickly have many snow patches to cross and will eventually be on snow for 4hrs of the day. So Spikes/ crampons are essential. 

From the high point of Col de la Seigne its winter conditions and the current descent path is not the regular summer route as Its full snow cover.

After around 10-15 mins descending from the col .

Pay attention to look for a path junction, the normal summer trail heads right passing the environmental museum.

However for the moment it is better to stay direct / leftwards and descend on the snow slopes to arrive at the bridge at around 2800m.

As the snow melts the regular summer trail to the Environment museum will be better but only until the snow has melted.  

From the bridge there are small regular snow patches to cross, but can be done without spikes, as easily crossable.

When you get to the junction up to the Elisabetta Refuge it worth a 10 min hike to enjoy your first Italian treat.

Pay attention after 10 mins descending down from the refuge as there is a current snow passage which is best to followed on the right or direct down. Its covering the main 4x4 trail and is not a good way to pass.

When you arrive at the Valley 4x4 track it is simple hiking.

It is possible to take the alternative high route to Maison Vieille but more snow will be encountered.

It is better to head down the valley to arrive at La Visaille and take the bus to Courmayer.

There is currently a bus every hour at 40 minutes past the hour.

Timetables changes on 28th june

Then the bus runs every 30 minutes

https://arriva.it/app/uploads/sites/3/2023/06/000931-CourmayeurValVeny-1.pdf

Its free of charge.

Courmayeur to Refuge Bonatti & the Val Ferret: This day is mostly snow free as it stays around an altitude of 2000m, however; some small snow patches may need to be crossed.

Particularly crossing any river beds/ gullies.

Do not attempt to take the high level route over the Mont Saxe ridge.

It's not safe due to the snow conditions for at least another 4 weeks.

Val Ferret to La Fouly: The Grand Col Ferret 2537m is one of the days that needs great attention. There is a lot of snow the higher you go with winter conditions at the col. Be prepared for walking on snow for most of the day.

A few small sections are exposed so need to passed with full equipment, fully focused and a steady head.

There is a very obvious track crossing any snow encountered which provides a track to follow, but in some places the track is narrow so extra care is needed, moving slowly and surely is important on this day.

From the head of the valley (Arnouva) at 1784m the climb to col begins. You have 2 options, if you take the left route to the refuge Elena is easy much easier and safer via a wide 4x4 track.

If you choose to take the right hand trail it's more complicated. The path is full of mud to start and there currently is 3-4 short but very exposed gully sections on snow to be crossed.

As the snow melts the main problem will be the huge gaps that appear between the earth and the snow patches. They are short crossings on snow but dangerous to pass as to slip here could be serious.

Taking the 4x4 track would maybe take a bit longer but will be stress free.

Also on the higher route 100m below Elena refuge the bridge is not in place. The gully is full of snow, currently easy to pass. This will become a problem when the snow melts until the bridge is back installed.

Elena refuge has delayed opening beacuse of the snow, they open on 1st July.

The trail from Elena refuge to the Grand col Ferret is a mix of snow patches, some are exposed. On the sections without snow there is a lot of mud. Also due to snow patches, the main path l is not being fully followed. 

Have your Microspikes at the top of your bag and allow extra time for putting them on and off. At 2485m it is full winter conditions & the track from this point to reach the Col will be on snow.

There is a 100m section before arriving at the col that needs extra attention, as you will need to make a traverse on exposed snow slopes. 

There is a track to be followed as many people are passing. You must stay focused with each step on this section to arrive at the Grand Col Ferret safely.

The descent from the Col is winter snow conditions all the way to you arrive to the Swiss refuge of La Peule. 

There is a short section on the trail 20-30 mins before you arrive at the refuge around 2200m with a 100m section that is more exposed. But the descent despite the snow is easily passed. 

The descent after the La Peule refuge is relaxed. It is better to follow the 4x4 trail and onwards to Ferret or La Fouly

La Fouly to Champex Lac: From La Fouly the trek stays at a much lower altitude so passing snow is not an issue.

Champex Lac to Trient: Do not go via the Fenetre d'Arpette , the col is very steep at the top on both sides and it is extreamly dangerous at the moment. This route will not be passable for at least another 4 weeks.

The Bovine route is your only option on this day. Due to raising temperatures and snow melt crossing rivers needs care & atention. The path from Champex Lac towards the Bovine Refuge has 2 river crossings that need to be passed safely.

Also the section of path regularly gets flooded around the altitude of. 15-1600m metres at altitude. Be prepared to cross the 100m section in barefoot, maybe pack any extra pair of dry socks on this day to keep your feet in good condition.

After Bovine follow the well marked trail to the Col Forclaz & on to the village of Trient. A perfect opportunity to share some chat with your fellow trekkers in its bar/ social space.

Trient to Argentiere: From the village of Trient the easiest passage is to head directly up to the Col du Balme. Follow signs in SW direction to the end of the road and trail easy to find. There is a wonderful refuge with great cakes that sits on the border of France and SwitzerLand. Descent from here is long but the paths are easy to walk and follow.

Argentiere to Chamonix: It's too early to take the famous ladder route and to visit Lac Blanc, there is just too much snow. Take the route from the village centre, direction Chalet Cheserys & Flégère.

After passing Flegere ski station, continue for 2 more hours to the Planpraz cable car.

Finally it's time to take the lift down to complete your journey.

You may encounter some snow passages on this final section.

Last lift is at 17h00

Bon Courage, stay safe & you will experience a trip of a lifetime 💪

Also see our Facebook & Instagram page for video footage.

By Victoria Chelton

Uimla guide.

Vic has lived and worked in the European Alps since 2007 and has a total passion for these stunning mountains. Originally from the beautiful Lake District she grew up in the British mountains & hiked, climbed & ran from peak to peak. An excellent guide and climbing instructor, Vic has a wealth of experience on these trails.

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