Current as of: April 25, 2024 - 12:03
Walking Tour du Mont Blanc Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
- Destination: France
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
4 out of 7 - Moderate / Challenging
- 8 Days: Flight Inclusive
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: W07MT
Trip Overview
Walk the highlights of Mont Blanc
Not just one of the finest, but one of the oldest treks in the world, Tour du Mont Blanc is steeped in history and dramatic beauty – it’s easy to recognise its worldwide charm. With captivating views along well-trodden paths, the entirety of this 170km trail circumnavigates Mont Blanc massif, crossing through France, Italy & Switzerland.
We’ve chosen to feature the most outstanding sections that capture the grandeur, yet also the beautiful simplicity of Mont Blanc. Our twin centre holiday is based in Chamonix, fondly referred to as the adventure capital of the world, and in Courmayeur, a classic Italian resort full of character.
On your very first walk, you’ll experience sweeping 360° views over the French, Swiss and Italian Alps – is there a better way to start your trip! As you traverse the trails of Mont Blanc, you’ll come across huge glaciers, snow-capped summits, stunning mirrored lakes, and serene foothills painted with wildflowers.
Your 3* accommodations immerse you in traditional alpine hospitality with superb levels of comfort and service. Both hotels are very close to great transport links for cable cars, cog-trains, and mountain buses.
You have the option to upgrade to 4* accommodations on this trip, please quote W07MP for prices.
At a Glance
- Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
- Headwater navigation app
- Private car transfer between hotels
- Solo travellers (not accepted on this trip)
Highlights
- Walk the highlights of Mont Blanc's iconic trails
- Unique alpine panorama and pristine reflections of Lac des Cheserys & Lac Blanc
- Stay in French adventure hub Chamonix and classic Italian resort Courmayeur
Adult min age: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Chamonix
- End City: Courmayeur
Flight Inclusive
- Start City: London
- End City: London
Land Only Itinerary
Arrive in Chamonix
Arrive at your hotel in Chamonix where you’ll stay for the next 4 nights. Nestled at the base of Mont Blanc, you can enjoy a leisurely evening exploring this lovely town.
Overnight Hotel Les Gourmets 3*, Chamonix.
Aiguille du Midi to Mer de Glace
Jump straight on the cable car up to Aiguille du Midi at 3,842m high. Boasting 360° views over the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps, this is the perfect start to your Mont Blanc adventure. Descend along well-trodden paths with incredible mountain views until you reach Mer de Glace glacier, the largest glacier in France, known locally as ‘Sea of Ice’; here there is an option to visit the ice cave. Return to your hotel in Chamonix using the cog-train.
Overnight Hotel Les Gourmets 3*, Chamonix.
Aiguilles Rouges: Lac Chésérys & Lac Blanc
This fine trail takes you across Les Aiguilles Rouges facing the glaciers and the famous summits of the Mont Blanc Mountain chain including Mer de Glace, North Face of the Grandes Jorasses, Aiguille Verte, and the Mont Blanc. Upon reaching Lac Blanc Hut, you’ll witness one of the best panoramas on this trip before admiring the beautiful mountain lakes.
Overnight Hotel Les Gourmets 3*, Chamonix.
Bellevue to Contamines-Monjoie
Today you begin your walk at Bellevue along a beautiful balcony trail through dappled woodland. Your path opens to striking mountain views before you reach Refuge Miage in the glacier valley. Continue your descent until you reach the traditional mountain village Contamines-Monjoie where you’ll take a local bus back to Chamonix.
Overnight Hotel Les Gourmets 3*, Chamonix.
Val Ferret: Bonatti Hut to Courmayeur
Your day begins with an early private car transfer across the border from France into Courmayeur, Italy for your remaining three nights. Beginning in the Val Ferret valley, you’ll want to have your camera ready today! Walk to Rifugio Alpino and onto Rifugio Bertone, both of which offer some of the best panoramas of the south face of Mont Blanc, particularly of the famous Grandes Jorasses. Continue through traditional alpine woodland before reaching Courmayeur and returning to your hotel.
Overnight Hotel Croux 3*, Courmayeur.
Val Veny: Col Checrouit Pass to Visaille
Enjoy a cable car ride from Courmayeur to Col Checrouit pass where you’ll start todays walk. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere and striking vistas along your path to the rustic Rifugio Elisabetta. As you continue through the traditional alpine landscape, you’ll soon reach Lac Combal. Nestled in the heart of a breath-taking panorama of mountains and glaciers, Lac Combal is the perfect spot to truly appreciate your extraordinary surroundings.
Overnight Hotel Croux 3*, Courmayeur.
Val Ferret: Tete de Ferret
After arriving in Val Ferret, you tread a clear path to reach Rifugio Elena perched high in the mountains at 2,061m and sat at the foot of Pré-de-Bard glacier. Your final stretch offers you the chance to climb to Grand Col Ferret. Resting at 2,537m, this spectacular alpine pass reveals itself as the border between Italy and Switzerland, rewarding you with a poignant end to your Mont Blanc adventure.
Overnight Hotel Croux 3*, Courmayeur.
Depart Courmayeur
Wave goodbye to Courmayeur as you depart for home.
Accommodation
Chalet Hotel Les Gourmets, Chamonix
Located in the centre of Chamonix next to the beautiful river running through the town. This cosy hotel offers a relaxing and homely feel with a delicious breakfast served in their dining room. Guests can also enjoy the riverside gardens, sauna and small swimming pool.
Hotel Croux 3*, Courmayeur
Family run Hotel Croux, dates back to 1966 yet has been completely renovated and redecorated. Set in a great location with easy access to the cable car and bus stations, you can enjoy panoramic views and a beautiful garden facing Mont Blanc. Plenty of restaurants are within walking distance, whilst a hearty breakfast is served in the hotel. After a day’s walking, you can enjoy a cosy lounge with fireplace and a TV/reading room. The hotel also benefits from a sauna and steam room, gym area, and laundry service.
What To Take
Practical Information
Visa
France
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter France. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/france
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/france
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html
Vaccinations and Health
France
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
France's time zone: Europe/Paris (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
France's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and E (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
France's currency: Euros (EUR)
Responsible Travel
At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.
Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…