Make the Tour du Mont Blanc short and sweet! Instead of the usual 12 days, this self-guided adventure packs all the punch of the iconic TMB in just one week. Hike in three countries, scale high mountain passes, and soak up stunning views. Get ready to enjoy perfect Alpine scenes day after day—cowbells chiming, pastures framed by snowy peaks, and wooden houses adorned with flowers. With foolproof routes, detailed maps, and mouthwatering local bites, your TMB journey will unfold seamlessly, allowing you to take it all in at your own pace. Are you ready for an unforgettable 7-day Alpine adventure?
Embark on a 7-day journey through the heart of the Alps and trek the trails around Mont Blanc. With this slightly shortened and self-guided version of the Tour du Mont Blanc, you'll be aided by comprehensive trip notes, dormitory-style lodgings, and dedicated office support, ensuring a seamless experience. Along the way, savor delightful meals and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical tapestry of this three-country juncture. From Les Houches to Argentiere, this iconic route offers the quintessential Alpine adventure, making it an absolute must for any passionate hiker!
Included:
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
Not included:
Even though Tour du Mont Blanc is not technically difficult, it is generally recommended for those with at least an extensive experience of longer day hikes on mountain trails and great fitness. The most you’ll hike within a day is 11.2 miles (18 km), while daily elevations gain range between 2,182 ft (665 m) and 4,495 ft (1,370 m).
Keep in mind that hiking can be made more difficult because of changing weather. A big perk of a self-guided tour is that you’ll be able to take as many breaks as you want! Due to some more exposed sections, the tour is not recommended for those with severe fear of heights.
If you think you may not be ready for this trek at the moment, we suggest you adopt a training regiment in the weeks leading up to the trip, with long daily hikes in hilly terrain, as well as engaging in various cardiovascular activities and strength training. By adequately preparing both physically and mentally for this adventure, the vast majority of the hikers can fully enjoy the challenges and rewards that this remarkable trek has to offer.
If you’re looking for guided TMB adventures suitable for advanced hikers, check out this high-level Tour du Mont Blanc adventure and this more rugged version of the Tour du Mont Blanc.
Here’s a list of the equipment and clothes you need to bring:
Typically, the weather along the route is warm and fairly stable, requiring minimal extra gear. However, it’s crucial to bring all the items from the list due to unseasonal conditions that can occasionally occur. At least once every summer hikers witness unseasonal snow and heavy rainfall, with temperatures plummeting from mid-30s°C (86°F) to below zero (0°C/32°F).
For rain, waterproof jackets and trousers are essential, along with multiple pairs of gloves. In the event of snow, quality hiking boots, walking poles, warm clothing, and gloves are necessary. Sometimes hikers experience heatwaves, meaning that they need to be equipped with rehydration salts, 3-4L of water, and a sun hat.
Don’t underestimate the importance of proper gear; be well-prepared for any situation. You’ll be able to discuss your packing list with the adventure company prior to your trip.
Daily luggage transfers can be arranged as part of this adventure for an additional fee during booking. With this option, your luggage will await you at every destination during the trek. Please note that your luggage must be a soft bag weighing no more than 15 kg (33 lbs).
Self-guided tours are perfect for those who enjoy exploring on their own terms—at their own pace, and with the company they choose. By joining this self-guided tour, we take care of:
Rather than joining a guided group, you’ll navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the tour operator. For a hassle-free journey with everything arranged for you in advance, there’s no better option!
As a self-guided tour is built around your preferred travel dates, your guide will take care of arranging accommodations and details after you book. Note that exact accommodations and dates might shift slightly, so don’t make any travel arrangements until the details of your adventure are confirmed.
Group sizes and prices:
Self-guided hiking along the shorter variation of the Tour du Mont Blanc can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Your tour starts in Les Houches, France but you’ll first have to arrive in Chamonix the day before for a pre-tour briefing. To get there, most people fly into Geneva Airport. Once you arrive, there are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make the airport transfers hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop Offs—they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount!
After the briefing (or in the early morning of Day 1), you can take a train ride from Chamonix to Les Houches which will take you around 20 minutes. We suggest arriving and staying in Chamonix/Les Houches one day before your tour starts so that you can recuperate from the travel if flying from a distant location—hiking begins on Day 1!
Please refrain from making any travel arrangements until your booking is confirmed! After you pick your preferred dates, your guide will check accommodation availability and get back to you within 2-3 weeks. Once the guide confirms your departure, you’re good to go—at that point, book your plane tickets and start looking forward to your adventure! If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund.
Repatriation/search and rescue insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended to join this trip. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
A 35% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 90 days prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. . If you cancel the booking…
Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.
