Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

There were plenty of enjoyable moments. The views of Mont Blanc were breathtaking. Being able to finish the route alongside the group, despite our vastly different ages, was quite heartwarming. The conversations with Helena gave me the strength to keep up with the hikes and to believe in my abilities.

Thoughts on Group Leader

She's a sharp woman, with plenty of physical prowess, and she's got the knack for keeping the group united.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Enjoy the hikes fearlessly, pack some warm clothes in your suitcase (the weather can be quite unpredictable), and make sure to spend some time with the hosts to learn about them and their amazing bike journey.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hard to judge - it was all good.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very impressed with his knowledge and ability to lead a group with quite a variety of walking speeds. Very encouraging when it was needed and always there if you had a wobbly moment.

Most Inspirational Moment

I really enjoyed the top of the mountain views. The views, regardless of the weather were just breathtaking.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was very knowledgeable, able to manage a large group and could infuse a sense of fun with a professionalism & safety.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring & pack layers of clothes & plan for unpredictable weather.

Most Inspirational Moment

We’ve hiked before, but this was hiking on a whole other level. The tips and tricks that allowed us to reach each summit was inspirational and the nature and beauty around us was picture perfect.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Maria was inspirational and kind. He encouraged us, helped keep us safe and provided us with tips along the way. He was an excellent guide with a love of nature.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The hikes can be challenging. The best attitude is a positive, “can do” attitude.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the summit of Aiguilettes des Houches and the 360 degree mountain views.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fred our leader was great - the right combination of knowledgable, friendly and enthusiastic.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The weather in August was quite variable from fairly cool and damp to hot and humid - so you potentially will need all your high mountain gear options.

Most Inspirational Moment

Making it to the top of the mountain each day and having lunch with incredible views!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fred was a fantastic group leader. He ensured the group stayed together throughout each walk, was always patient and understanding and adapted when things didn't go exactly to plan. He was also a pleasure to speak with during the hikes and tried to accommodate our every request (e.g. finding an ice cream stop each afternoon).

Advice for Potential Travellers

Even if you're only in a half a mind to do this, don't think too much and just sign up. You won't regret it!

Most Inspirational Moment

The first day we had a more challenging hike and I didn’t think I could do it. Our guide, Jenny, and our trip mates were so supportive. They were so patient and encouraging. Also all the scenery was so beautiful and everyday we saw something so inspiring.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide, Jenny, was so wonderful. She took care of every detail. She spent so much time planning everything. Especially, the plan for next day based on the weather and the feelings of the group. She went out of her way to make sure we all of our needs were met. I felt very safe with here as she was so knowledgeable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would definitely recommend good hiking shoes and hiking poles. The ascent and descent in the Alps is definitely different than in other parts of the world.

Most Inspirational Moment

After watching your feet on the rocky trail, manoeuvring across a tricky terrain, or popping out of tree line ….. turning around and seeing the majestic mountains sourounding you and leaning into it like a giant hug. I could never tire of it. Exploring the alpine wildflower meadows in July in the mid altitudes was joyous. Such variety of plant life and wildlife, and delighted to discover the elusive blue gentian! Eating lunch in front of eight glaciers of the Grande Jorrasses on the Italian section of the TMB was an incredible experience, and humbling to see how far the glaciers have retreated.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fred was everything you could hope for in mountain leader, professional, experienced, personable and attentive. He watched closely and responded well to people’s individual abilities, offering guidance and encouragement as needed. He gave clear and informative evening briefings to set the scene for the day ahead and joined in with our evening meal with easy and friendly conversation.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The walks aren’t technical and don’t require ultra fitness, but stamina to repeat 6hrs of mountain hiking daily with reasonably long periods of ascent, is advisable. Know your own abilities when booking this trip. Highly recommend walking poles for the descents. Room size and layout will differ in Chalets and hotel accommodations, not all are equal. If you are considering this trip, it is likely you are for the mountain hiking rather than the bedroom, be mindful that you might not have the best room and ask yourself whether it would matter. If you want to experience glaciers … don’t delay too long ! Always listen to your guide … take your waterproofs everywhere every day !! 😃

Most Inspirational Moment

Our new friend Sarah-Jane boldly declaring ‘I am strong’. 💪Then demonstrating it with her actions in consistent hiking and parasailing for the first time. Also, the hike along the Bonatti refuge in Italy was one of the most memorable views of a lifetime. The additional reward of tasty gelato in Courmayeur with new friends was a special treat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Professional, encouraging, sincere, reliable

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the reviews on chalet accommodations in advance…know before you go. The chalet is solid. Being proximate to Chaminox was a plus. Hot tub, nice add. I’ve made many backpacking treks and stayed in tents mostly. I wanted here to do a level up from that and overall was pleased. I’d had the awareness that it could feel cramped for some and while I’ve never lived in a house with 13 people I could fully see how that overall experience not being for everyone. Do the research and if not for you choose another option.