Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Bonding with our group leader, Jeffry, and the other hikers.

Thoughts on Group Leader

My wife got food poisoning the night before starting our hike - we had to take an ambulance at 3AM from our hotel in Argentiere to a hospital in Sallanches. Because of this she was unable to participate in most of the hikes. Our group leader, Jeffry Oonk, did an amazing job accommodating us. He could have just let us go off on our own - instead, he went out of his way to ensure that we were able to find our way to the next accommodation to still be a part of the group. On days where the trip was relatively simple, I hiked with the group; when it was more involved, I traveled with my wife. Despite this setback we both still had an absolutely wonderful trip, and both felt full part of the "team" for the duration. This was due not only to our fellow hikers, but mainly due to the extra effort Jeff put in to make it happen. Thanks, Jeff, for everything you did!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for bumps in the road, and be open to making changes. Your Exodus guide is there for you!

Most Inspirational Moment

It's almost impossible to choose one moment as being the most inspiring; there were so many, but i'll give it a go. The welcome meeting. I travelled with a friend, and we arrived as the welcome meeting was starting; everyone gathered around a big table outside the hotel, coffees, beers in hand. A big map set out on the table. Jeff our guide for the tour briefed us on the trip, what to expect. I remember he painted a vivid picture of an adventure to come. I felt like a Hobbit about to set off on some great quest. fizzing with excitement.

Thoughts on Group Leader

This is such an unfair question in many ways. It can often come down to personalities either meshing or not. I think I would speak for our whole group when I say Jeff; our guide was exceptional. He is one of the most personable men I have ever met; he is calm, confident, considerate, clearly an expert in his field with an immense knowledge of natural history he is more than willing to share with you, and make accessible via his excellent mini lectures given on the trail, which got our attention and wonder every time. Jeff's ability to make everything seem effortless meant that we could all become somewhat lazy and simply sink into enjoying the best parts of the tour, without having to worry about any logistics.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Its hard to know what advice would be needed for other travellers. Exodus provide clear advice on what you need to take, what to expect; all necessary information is provided very clearly. I would say; the trip seems expensive, and its fair to say it isn't cheap. There is a saying in marketing "The quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten". That applies in this case. I could not fault one part of the whole experience; leadership, accommodation, food, itinerary, organisation, anything and everything needed to make this a memorable experience that will stay with me forever was included. People talk about expectations around trips of this sort. I can honestly say it exceeded my expectations in every measurable metric. Thank you to the whole team involved in putting together this trip. I will be booking with Exodus in the very near future.

Most Inspirational Moment

Crossing the Grand Col Ferret (the highest point of the trip at 8300 feet) in clouds, then descending into the blue -sky beauty of the Courmayeur valley.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tim was THE BEST!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Train for this trip - walk daily in the boots you will be wearing. Use trekking poles to save your knees and make descents safer. Invest in good socks (wool with thin synthetic liner socks worked for me - could hand wash quick-dry liners and wear wool outer socks for several days). Bring smaller backpack - only need to carry water, waterproofs, pack lunch, phone, money and sun cream. WIFI available most hotels but consider esim plan for WhatsApp group info and photo sharing.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching Col du Tricot after the epic climb from Refuge de Miage will live long in the memory, it epitomises my belief that in the mountains, hard work brings rewards.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader Agu was as good as any Exodus leader we have had in the past. He was informative, friendly, good-humoured and well equipped with leadership skills. He would also work hard in the background on our behalf, whether providing info on day-off activities or making adjustments to our plans to suit someone in the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Train hard and pack for all conditions.

Most Inspirational Moment

It's hard to pick the best moment as it was all so amazing. Perhaps the last day as we climbed Le Brevent, the scenery was stunning.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Egle Aleksiunaite - she was brilliant throughout.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Would thoroughly recommend this trip with Exodus. It was well organised and we didn't have to worry about any of the transport, accommodation as it was all done for us. All we had to do was walk and enjoy it! We also walked with some lovely people from the USA so that was a bonus.

Most Inspirational Moment

Looking down the length of Val Ferret from the pass after a morning's climb.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian was a great leader for our group, with its wide range of abilities. Patient and enthusiastic in equal measure.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Hotel stays mean that you can use a daypack and carry only the essentials. Trekking poles are highly reccommended. Do not stint on your water supply for each day, as prolonged climbing will increase your consumption well above what you may be used to when hiking locally.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian was incredible. Knowledgeable, communicative and fun-seeking. He looked out for all members of our large (14 person) group and was realistic in his explanations of each day’s adventure.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I highly suggest investing in a water bladder!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian is wonderful, knowledgeable and very friendly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If expectations are to enjoy the nature, this may not be the trip for you. Steep ups and downs along with challenging terrain makes it difficult to enjoy views. Do this if you want to check this off your list as achievement. Crowds doesn’t help in this context either.

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day was inspiring because of the great views

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian was fantastic, always available, responsible, knowledgeable

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read carefully the trip notes and the exercises planning for the trip. It is a challenging tour.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking into Italy

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lots of fun, knowledgeable of the trail and conditions , attentive to safety and individual needs.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Prepare for the ascents. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.