What you get on this adventure: 7 days of self-guided hiking along the Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation for 6 nights (dormitory (4 nights) and private room accommodation (2 nights) en route) Meals as indicated in the itinerary (6 breakfasts and 4 dinners) In-person pre-tour briefing in Chamonix Detailed route description, walking times and map Unlimited email support pre-tour Assistance by your team on site What’s not included: Transportation to Chamonix/Les Houches Meals not indicated in the itinerary Transfers during the adventure (local buses, lifts, etc.) Luggage transfers (can be arranged for an additional fee during booking) Optional rest day in Courmayeur (can be arranged for an additional fee during booking) Rescue/medical insurance — mandatory

How fit do I need to be?

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. You can expect daily ascents and descents between 2,180 and 4,200ft and hiking between 7 and 10 miles for 7 consecutive days. Keep in mind that hiking can be made more difficult because of changing weather. Obviously, you will be able to take many breaks. 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 .

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment and clothes you need to bring: Good, comfortable, waterproofed mountain hiking shoes with good tread Comfortable rucksack (30 to 40L) Kit bag or suitcase (for your main luggage) Hiking poles Waterproof jacket and waterproof hiking pants Moisture-wicking T-shirts Warm sweater or a fleece Lightweight warm jacket and hat (in case of unexpected weather conditions) 2 Pairs of lightweight hiking pants and shorts Swimwear (some hotels feature pools) Cap and a sunhat 2-3 Pairs of gloves (liner gloves, waterproof gloves, and warm gloves) Hiking socks and underwear Pair of outdoor shoes Sleeping bag liner Sleeping bag 2L water bottle Swiss knife, compass, whistle, head torch Plastic bags / dry sacks to keep essentials dry Good sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip protection Your toiletry bag and a mini first-aid kit Other clothes and personal change Small towel (for the mountain hut) Travel bag or a small suitcase for the luggage transport Camera — optional (but recommended) 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.

What about my luggage?

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).

What is a self-guided tour?

A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, audio guides, or digital apps. In general, your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as 24/7 support, accommodation, and transportation—but please check the “what’s included” section above for a detailed breakdown. Once you book the trip, your guides will check accommodation availability. Note that the trip is not yet confirmed at this stage, so please refrain from making any travel arrangements and booking flights. It can take two to three weeks to receive accommodation confirmation from your guides and confirmation of the dates. Please note that the dates may change a bit, depending on accommodation availability. If the guides cannot confirm the dates, they will get back to you and refund you.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this adventure, the usual number of clients depends on the group who wishes to participate. It takes a minimum of 2 people for this self-guided tour to operate. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. 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 you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

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 guides secure accommodation and confirm your booking.

Safety measures and insurance

Medical evacuation and repatriation insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their 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. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help! If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Self-Guided Week-Long Tour du Mont Blanc.

An Alpine lake along the TMB, below sharp peaks.

A hiker taking in the view of the mountains along the TMB.

A village in the French Alps, Les Contamines.

View of Mont Blanc from Col de Balme, France.

Happy hikers taking a selfie on Tour du Mont Blanc.

A bench by a lake in Champex, an Alpine village in Switzerland.

A breathtaking view from Col de Balme, French Alps.

Two backpackers on a hiking trail which is part of the TMB.

Landscape from the Bonhomme mountain pass, TMB.

Wooden houses and lofty peaks, village of Les Houches, France.

The vedute of an Italian Alpine town of Courmayeur.

A hiking trail leading to the Ferret mountain pass, along the TMB.

Rhone valley seen while hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc.

TOUR DU MONT BLANC | FRANCE

Self-Guided Week-Long Tour du Mont Blanc

5.00 ()

Season

June through September

Duration

7 days

Difficulty

Self-guided tour

Explore at your own pace with arranged accommodation and 24/7 support

Accommodation

Mix of dormitory-style lodging and private rooms

Guides

Yann Delevaux, Sebastien Tournoud, Marta Gil Sopena, Nuyama

Questions, additional dates, private groups

Book a call

From $940 () / 7 days

Book now

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

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?

Adventure highlights

Shorter variation of TMB

Hike the larger part of the Tour du Mont Blanc in just one week and explore its best highlights
Explore heart of the Alps

Enjoy Alpine scenery and gastronomical and cultural delights of France, Switzerland, and Italy
Make it personal

Experience Tour du Mont Blanc with your people, at your pace, and when it best fits your calendar

Itinerary

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!

Begin your journey in Les Houches, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. The adventure kicks off with a cable car ascent from the village center, sharing the ride with mountaineers gearing up for the Mont-Blanc ascent. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bionnassay glacier and the surrounding landscapes as you hike to the Col du Tricot, where a magnificent panorama of the Contamines-Montjoie valley unfolds. The descent takes you through the rustic Chalets de Miage, surrounded by the serenity of nature. The day concludes in the welcoming village of Contamines-Montjoie, where you’ll spend the night, immersed in the charm of this mountainous haven.*

*Note that you’ll have to arrive in Chamonix a day before for a pre-trek briefing. After the briefing, you can either spend the night in Chamonix or Les Houches (not included).

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Dormitory-style lodging in
Distance: 6.83 miles (11 km)
Ascent: 2,182 ft (665 m)
Descent: 4,249 ft (1,295 m)
Embark on a scenic hike from Les Contamines towards the challenging Col du Bonhomme (7,645 ft / 2,329m). This day promises a journey through the natural reserve of Les Contamines-Montjoie, a haven for nature enthusiasts. The ascent to the col unveils breathtaking vistas, and the descent leads you to the remote hamlet of Les Chapieux, where telephone signals are sparse, providing a unique digital detox experience.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Dormitory-style lodging
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
Ascent: 4,232 ft (1,290 m)
Descent: 3,100 ft (945 m)
The day commences with a hike to la Ville des Glaciers, leading to the challenging ascent to La Seigne Pass (8,250 ft / 2,516 m), marking the border between France and Italy. The pass offers a stunning viewpoint with panoramic views of iconic summits like Mont-Blanc of Courmayeur, Noire de Peuterey, and Grandes Jorasses. As you descend to Val Veny, catch a local bus to Courmayeur, the Italian Alpine capital known for its therapeutic thermal spas, which have been frequented since Roman times for their believed health benefits. Courmayeur provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lodging in private rooms
Distance: 9.3 miles (15 km)
Ascent: 2,477 ft (755 m)
Descent: 2,887 ft (880 m)
Embark on an ascent to the Bertone Hut (6,560 ft / 2,000 m), offering one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Tour du Mont Blanc, with breathtaking views of the iconic Grandes Jorasses. The Bertone Hut is named after Abbé Joseph-Marie Henry Bertone, a key figure in the exploration of the Western Alps. The descent leads to the scenic Val Ferret. From there, catch a bus down to Courmayeur, where you’ll stay for the night.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lodging in private rooms
Distance: 8.6 miles (13.9 km)
Ascent: 3,294 ft (1,004 m)
Descent: 1,935 ft (590 m)
The morning begins with a bus ride from Courmayeur to Arnouva (Val Ferret), the starting point for your hike. The trail leads to the Rifugio Elena, offering a last chance to savor an espresso before reaching the Grand Col Ferret, the Italian-Swiss border. The view from this point is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a final glimpse of the Italian side of your Tour du Mont-Blanc adventure. Descend to the charming village of La Fouly, where you’ll take a local bus to Champex, a village known for its pristine Alpine lake.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Dormitory-style lodging
Distance: 9.3 miles (15 km)
Ascent: 2,690 ft (820 m)
Descent: 3,232 ft (985 m)
Departing from Champex, the day unfolds with a picturesque journey through the scenic landscapes. The initial easy hike along the “cattle road” recalls the historic routes used by ranchers guiding their cattle through the mountains. The terrain becomes hilly as you enjoy views of the Dents du Midi and climb through the forest, offering lookout points over the stunning Rhone Valley, which was sculpted by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, and the town of Martigny. The descent leads you to the Col de la Forclaz and onward to your accommodation in Trient, a village surrounded by glaciated landscapes, showcasing the geological history of the region.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Dormitory-style lodging
Distance: 9.9 miles (16 km)
Ascent: 3,117 ft (960 m)
Descent: 3,488 ft (1,065 m)
The final day of your journey takes you back to France from Trient. The trail leads to the Col de Balme, the border between Switzerland and France. The Col de Balme offers unparalleled views of the Chamonix Valley and the Aiguilles Rouges mountain range. From Montroc, a local bus will transport you to Chamonix, marking the end of your incredible trek around the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 8.7 miles (14 km)
Ascent: 3,707 ft (1,130 m)
Descent: 3,412 ft (1,040 m)

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Meet your guides

5.00

Yann Delevaux

IFMGA Mountain Guide

Yann Delevaux is a Chamonix-based mountain guide, boasting over 20 years of experience guiding mountaineering and skiing in the Mont Blanc area, the Alps, the Himalayas, and beyond. He is the co-founder and the “driving force” behind the Nuyama outdoor adventure company, mixing the wisdom and experience of an “old guide” with boundless enthusiasm and creativity.

5.00

Sebastien Tournoud

Sebastien is a ski instructor and trekking guide who followed in the footsteps of his father, a mountain guide in Chamonix. He spends winters on skis and summers trekking in the Alps. Apart from Chamonix, his favorite places are the Dolomites, Gran Paradiso, and the Pyrenees. For him, guiding is not just a profession but a way of life. Hiking provides him with an opportunity to reflect, observe, and immerse himself in the natural environment. Through hiking, we nurture our bodies and minds, focusing on ourselves and our surroundings.

5.00

Marta Gil Sopena

After her first contact with the mountains in the Pyrenees, Marta fell in love with the environment and became a hiking guide. While she was traveling the world with her partner, they ended up choosing Chamonix in France as their base — defining it as the best place she ever experienced. Marta leads groups throughout the year, equally enjoying summer and winter, with a particular preference for leading all women groups.

5.00

Nuyama

Nuyama is a guiding company based in Chamonix, founded by Yann Delevaux, a Chamonix local, and Marion Cochet. With their extensive experience in trip organization and mountain guiding (Yann has been an IFMGA Mountain guide for more than 20 years now), they turned their passion for the great outdoors into a recognizable and reliable guiding collective, offering unique and unforgettable adventures. They now lead and organize a growing number of hiking, trekking, mountaineering, skiing, and mountain biking trips in the Alps.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Luke M.

Great communication, professional advice, above and beyond service, exceeded expectations.

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - 7 days of self-guided hiking along the Tour du Mont Blanc
  - Accommodation for 6 nights (dormitory (4 nights) and private room accommodation (2 nights) en route)
  - Meals as indicated in the itinerary (6 breakfasts and 4 dinners)
  - In-person pre-tour briefing in Chamonix
  - Detailed route description, walking times and map
  - Unlimited email support pre-tour
  - Assistance by your team on site
What’s not included:
- - Transportation to Chamonix/Les Houches
  - Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  - Transfers during the adventure (local buses, lifts, etc.)
  - Luggage transfers (can be arranged for an additional fee during booking)
  - Optional rest day in Courmayeur (can be arranged for an additional fee during booking)
  - Rescue/medical insurance — mandatory
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. You can expect daily ascents and descents between 2,180 and 4,200ft and hiking between 7 and 10 miles for 7 consecutive days. Keep in mind that hiking can be made more difficult because of changing weather. Obviously, you will be able to take many breaks. 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:
- - Good, comfortable, waterproofed mountain hiking shoes with good tread
  - Comfortable rucksack (30 to 40L)
  - Kit bag or suitcase (for your main luggage)
  - Hiking poles
  - Waterproof jacket and waterproof hiking pants
  - Moisture-wicking T-shirts
  - Warm sweater or a fleece
  - Lightweight warm jacket and hat (in case of unexpected weather conditions)
  - 2 Pairs of lightweight hiking pants and shorts
  - Swimwear (some hotels feature pools)
  - Cap and a sunhat
  - 2-3 Pairs of gloves (liner gloves, waterproof gloves, and warm gloves)
  - Hiking socks and underwear
  - Pair of outdoor shoes
  - Sleeping bag liner
  - Sleeping bag
  - 2L water bottle
  - Swiss knife, compass, whistle, head torch
  - Plastic bags / dry sacks to keep essentials dry
  - Good sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip protection
  - Your toiletry bag and a mini first-aid kit
  - Other clothes and personal change
  - Small towel (for the mountain hut)
  - Travel bag or a small suitcase for the luggage transport
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
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).
A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, audio guides, or digital apps. In general, your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as 24/7 support, accommodation, and transportation—but please check the “what’s included” section above for a detailed breakdown.

Once you book the trip, your guides will check accommodation availability. Note that the trip is not yet confirmed at this stage, so please refrain from making any travel arrangements and booking flights.

It can take two to three weeks to receive accommodation confirmation from your guides and confirmation of the dates. Please note that the dates may change a bit, depending on accommodation availability. If the guides cannot confirm the dates, they will get back to you and refund you.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this adventure, the usual number of clients depends on the group who wishes to participate.
  - It takes a minimum of 2 people for this self-guided tour to operate.
  - The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
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 you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
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 guides secure accommodation and confirm your booking.
Medical evacuation and repatriation insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their 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.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
A 30% deposit to secure your spot for 2024 is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid thirty-five (35) days prior to departure.

Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
- - If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to sixty (60) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund, minus a 5% processing fee.
  - For cancellations forty-five (45) to one sixty (60) calendar days in advance, 15% of the total price of the trip will be forfeited.
  - For cancellations thirty (30) to forty-four (44) calendar days in advance, 30% of the total price of the trip will be forfeited.
  - For cancellations fifteen (15) to twenty-nine (29) calendar days in advance, 75% of the total price of the trip will be forfeited
  - After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.