Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area (International Mountain Leader) 12-day TMB Classic Trek (10 days of hiking) Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary All breakfasts and all evening meals (detailed in the itinerary) Cable cars and transport as indicated in the itinerary Daily luggage delivery (apart from any nights at Bonatti or Elena huts where no luggage access is available) Not included: Transportation to and from Chamonix Airport transfers — we recommend Mountain Drop-Offs Personal drinks and snacks Packed lunches Any transport or accommodation due to a participant being unable to complete the itinerary Travel and medical/rescue insurance — mandatory Guide gratuities — optional

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 up to 3,000 ft (900 m) of daily ascent and descent and hiking 10 miles (16 km) on average for 10 consecutive days. Keep in mind that hiking can be made difficult because of changing weather. However, you will be able to take many breaks and your guide will adjust the route if it gets too strenuous for your group. Due to some more exposed sections, the tour is not recommended for those with severe fear of heights. Check out the itinerary for day-by-day distances and elevation changes, but the most you’ll hike in a day is 13 mi (21 km) and you’ll gain up to 3,700 ft (1,128 m) in elevation per day. 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 activities like jogging, swimming, playing squash, or circuit 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 Sheet or a sleeping bag liner 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 your guide prior to your trip.

How does luggage delivery work?

Luggage delivery is included each day where there is vehicle access —only Bonatti and Elena huts do not have luggage access. Please ensure that your main kit bag weighs no more than 15 kg (33 lbs) , and that it is a kit bag, duffel bag, soft case or rucksack, NOT a hard suitcase. If your trip has any nights without luggage delivery, your bag is simply delivered to the next location and you just need to carry any essentials for an overnight. Please note that your bags will be weighed, and they will not be taken if they are too heavy. If you need more allowance than this, then please email us to book a second bag well in advance at an additional cost—this will be around £150, depending on your group size and trip duration. Luggage needs to be ready by 08:00 daily, and is delivered by 17:30—your guides use a luggage delivery company rather than a private driver so it is not possible to ride with the baggage vehicle. Note that your luggage will spend time in unlocked baggage rooms and unattended hotel reception areas—these are all in village hotels or mountain towns. Your guides have never experienced a loss or theft, but it is important to acknowledge that you are happy with this system and pack accordingly! The luggage company accept no responsibility for loss or damage to kit and advise that you do not bring any valuables. These can be either carried on you, or stored in a secure luggage room or safe in the Chamonix hotel. Your guides advise using a padlock on your luggage. They also advise using an Air Tag—a couple of times, they’ve had bags go astray for a couple of hours, and it’s easier to be able to locate it quickly rather than phoning around the hotels to see if they’ve received an extra bag by mistake.

Is skipping a day an option?

If someone gets sick or is unable to hike for a day, the guide will usually help arrange transport. This is at the expense of the client, and depending on where they are in the trip, this can either be a 300 euro taxi journey, or a 12 euro bus journey, or, if they are fortunate with the location, a free train or bus journey. If a participant gets ill and needs an expensive taxi, they ought to be able to claim this on their travel insurance.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this group adventure, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is around 10:1. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The cost is per person and does not decrease as the group grows. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc can be arranged for larger and for private groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to the Chamonix, France—your starting point—most people fly into Geneva Airport in Switzerland 1.5 hours away. 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! Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, usually at your hotel in Chamonix at 6 p.m. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group to start off the tour the following morning.

Safety measures and insurance

Travel and medical/rescue insurance is mandatory on this tour. 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!

CHAMONIX | FRANCE

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

4.83

A man hiking on the famous Tour du Mont Blanc near Chamonix, France.

View of a lake near Chamonix seen during the Tour du Mont Blanc trek, there is a reflection of Mont Blanc on the surface of the lake and the scenery is seen during sunset.

The glacial lake lac Blanc reflecting glaciated peaks seen during TMB trek.

View of a narrow and very deep Alpine valley located with glaciated mountains in the background seen from a hiking trail forming part of the world-renowned Tour du Mont Blanc.

A hiker taking a short break surrounded by rugged Alpine terrain during their Tour du Mont Blanc trek.

Views from Col de la Seigne during Tour du Mont Blanc.

The stone bell tower of a church in the Italian Alpine town of Courmayeur.

A group of hikers ascending a hill during their Tour du Mont Blanc trek with a backdrop of rugged Alpine peaks.

A village in the French Alps, Les Contamines.

Chamonix during holiday time and mont blanc mountain range at sunny day, France.

Les Contamines alpine villages with mountains in the distance.

View of a picturesque 17th-century church of Notre Dame de la Gorge seen during the Tour du Mont Blanc trek.

Aerial views on the Alpine Valley Val Ferret from high mountain ridge close to Grand Col Ferret

Vedute of Champex, an Alpine village in Switzerland nestled beside a lake.

A hiker walking a hiking trail in Switzerland forming part of Tour du Mont Blanc surrounded by a deep-set Alpine valley covered in conifers with patches of snow.

The village of Trient with a characteristic pink church, in the French Alps.

From $4,780 ()

Duration

12 days

Season

June through September

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Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Accommodation & food
Reviews
Things to know

Nothing beats the world-famous Tour du Mont Blanc trek! In just 12 days we’ll get to do it all: enjoy views of impressive glaciers, reach some +8,200 ft mountain passes, and hike through some screensaver-worthy Alpine meadows, all around the highest peak of Western Europe. Between that morning espresso shot and the evening glass of French wine, we’ll give our feet plenty of work, roaming some legendary 2000-year-old Roman roads. Not to mention the suspension bridges above wild glacial streams, or the cable car rides over crystal-clear lakes and the greenest pine forests! Tour du Mont Blanc has many routes, but our guides will make sure we take the best & crowd-free ones.

Adventure highlights

One trek, three countries

Over 105 miles, we’ll experience some of the Alps’ best-ofs—and cross 5 major passes and 7 valleys
Fully guided & everything arranged

Let expert guides take care of all the planning & logistics, and enjoy the journey
Leaving the crowds behind

We’ll take less-traveled variants whenever possible to enhance our hiking experience

Itinerary

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Get to know the heart of the Alps and hit the high-altitude hiking trails around Mont Blanc. Starting and ending in Chamonix, you will learn why finishing the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc is more than 10 days of top-notch hiking with a backdrop of magnificent Alpine scenery. Enjoy the cultural, historical, and gastronomical aspects of the area located at the juncture of 3 countries and avoid the crowds (your guide knows the paths walked by few). Find out for yourself what makes this one of the world’s best treks!

Our trip begins in the mountain town of Chamonix, famous for being the adventure capital of the Alps. Located at the foot of Mont Blanc, its cobblestone streets breathe adventure while also exhibiting Alpine small-town charm combined with French sophistication. You will meet the rest of the group at 6pm at your hotel for a short trip briefing and gear check, followed by dinner. Get some rest for tomorrow, as that’s when our TMB adventure officially begins!

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Chamonix
*After a hearty breakfast, we will take a cable car connecting Les Houches with the Bellevue Plateau, during which we will get to enjoy the panoramic views of the Mont Blanc Massif. After crossing the suspension bridge at the foot of the Bionnassay glacier, your guide will choose the best route taking your group to Les Contamines. This usually includes passing the Col de Tricot (2,120 m / 6,955 ft), with a coffee stop at the Chalet de Miages at the foot of the mighty peak Dome de Miages (3,675 m / 12,055 ft), but a lower level route may be utilized. We will spend the night in a charming local 3* hotel in the French village of Les Contamines.

*Daily departures for hiking will be between 7:30 and 9:30am, depending on what time breakfast is served and on the length of the day.

Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
Ascent: 837 m / 2,746 ft
Descent: 1,520 m / 4,985 ft
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3* hotel in Les Contamines
Day 3 begins with trekking up the old Roman road to the picture-perfect 17th-century church of Notre Dame de la Gorge. From here, our path goes uphill, past the Chalet de Barme (a perfect coffee stop!) and all the way to the Col de Bonhomme (2,328 m / 7,635 ft), where we will take our lunch break. Another climb—this time gentler—will take us to Col de la Croix de Bonhomme (2,478 m / 8,130ft), offering a great view towards the Vanoise National Park. After an additional 2 hours, we will have reached Les Chapieux, the location of our lovely chambre d’hôte (bed and breakfast).

Distance: 19 km / 11.9 miles
Ascent: 1,348 m / 4,450 ft
Descent: 960 m / 3,150 ft
Walking time: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Bed and breakfast in Les Chapieux
We will take a newly-cut path up to Ville des Glaciers (in previous years the TMB took the tarmac road). There is usually the option to have a minibus transfer from Les Chapieux if you prefer (included), the leader will let you know about this. (If you have stayed at Bourg St Maurice or Courmet de Roselend, you will transfer directly to Ville des Glaciers). At Ville des Glaciers, we might have the opportunity to see how the Beaufort cheese is made. After passing Refuge des Mottets, we’ll start to climb more steeply up to our goal, the Col de La Seigne, at 2,516 m (8,255 ft), the 2nd highest pass on the Tour du Mont Blanc. We’ve reached the border with Italy! From here, we descend past the Elisabetta hut (we may divert here for lunch or coffee, depending on how we’re doing for time) and the Lac de Combal to La Visaille, where we take a bus to the vibrant mountain town of Courmayeur.

Distance: 21 km / 13 miles
Ascent: 1,004 m / 3,300 ft
Descent: 850 m / 2,800 ft
Walking time: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Courmayeur
We start the steep walk up to the Bertone hut and the Mont de la Saxe ridge. If the weather is good and there is not too much snow, we can take the lesser-travelled variant to the Mont de la Saxe ridge, up the Tête de la Tronche, and then down steeply to the Col Sapin. We then have a descent, followed by another climb to the Col Entre Deux Sauts—it’s a fairly long, but really stunning day, there are usually not many people, and the scenery is breathtaking! If the weather isn’t so good, or if you want a more relaxing day, you can take a fabulous balcony path from the Bertone hut to the Bonatti, high above the Val Ferret. It is a shorter day, but by no means a “second choice”, as the scenery is stunning.

Mont de la Saxe Route
Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
Ascent: 1,584 m / 5,200 ft
Descent: 940 m / 3,080 ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours

Balcony Route
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Ascent: 860 m / 2820 ft
Descent: 700 m / 2296 ft
Walking time: 4-5 hours

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Courmayeur
Today we’ll start our day with a rising traverse, then ultimately descend to the head of the Val Ferret at Arnouva. From here, our climb up the Grand Col Ferret begins. At 2,537 m (8,324 ft), it is the highest col on the official TMB route. We’ll stop for our last Italian coffee at the Rifugio Elena, and then climb steadily to the col, where we are rewarded with stunning views of the Grandes Jorasses, the Grand Combin, and Mont Dolent (the summit of which is on the border of France, Switzerland and Italy). At the top of the col, we cross over into Switzerland, where the scenery changes yet again. If we’re doing well for time, we might stop for a coffee at La Peule. Here we leave the signposted TMB and head to La Fouly via a higher balcony path (or, in early season TMBs, the gullies might be full of snow in which case we take a straightforward track). La Fouly is a lovely alpine village with traditional Swiss “chocolate box” chalets.

Distance 20km / 12.5 miles
Ascent: 1,128m / 3,700ft
Descent: 1,580m / 5,180 ft
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Simple hotel or bed and breakfast in La Fouly
A shorter day of hiking awaits. Winding through picturesque Swiss Alpine meadows and tiny villages, we will finally reach the resort of Champex, nestled alongside the eponymous glacial lake. Lodging in a traditional hotel offering great local delicacies.

Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Ascent: 711 m / 2,330 ft
Descent: 855 m / 2,805 ft
Walking time: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3* hotel in Champex
If the group feels fit on Day 8, the path will take you to Fenêtre d’Arpette, the highest col on the Tour du Mont Blanc standing at 2,665 m (8,710 ft)—a fantastic route famous for stunning views of the Trient glacier. This is a more serious undertaking, with a bigger climb, looser terrain underfoot, and 1 or 2 sections where you need to take care. Alternatively, your guide will decide to take you along the more laidback route via Bovine to the Col de la Forclaz (1,527 m / 5,010 ft). Bovine is the normal TMB route and you are rewarded with amazing views of the Rhone valley, gorgeous views of the Dents du Midi and the Grand Combin, and there’s a delightful “buvette” where we can have lunch. Our guide will make the decision about which route to do according to the weather conditions and fitness of the group. If we are staying in Trient, we continue a further 30 mins from Forclaz down to the valley floor. The decision about staying in Trient or Forclaz is made according to where we could achieve the most private rooms as availability is scarce in these locations.

Bovine Route
Distance: 15.4 km / 9.5 miles
Ascent: 800 m / 2,625 ft
Descent: 750 m / 2,460 ft
Walking time: 6 hrs

Fenêtre d’Arpette Route
Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Ascent: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Descent: 1,600 m / 5,250 ft
Walking time: 8-9 hrs

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Simple hotel, usually with shared bathrooms
Today’s plan is to take another lesser-traveled variant which diverges from the official Tour du Mont Blanc—either via Les Grands or Les Tseppes, depending on where we stayed the night before. The alternative routes are worth the extra time and effort not only because few other hikers take them but also because of the truly spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. Either route takes your group to the Col de Balme (2,195m / 7,200 ft) at the head of the Chamonix valley (welcome back to France!). Going either via the Aiguillette de Posettes down to Tré-le-Champ, or straight down to Le Tour, followed by the Petit Balcon Nord, you will have reached Argentière—the location of your accommodation—in the afternoon.

Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Ascent: 1,200 m / 3,940 ft
Descent: 1,450 m / 4,760 ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3* hotel in Argentière
From Argentière we climb up towards the Col des Montets. From here, we hike up to the famous Lac Blanc via the Lac des Chéserys, with simply the best views of Mont Blanc! We can either take the route via the ladders taking us more directly to the Lac des Chéserys, or we can take a slightly longer route that zig-zags up from the Col des Montets. Our usual plan is to take the ladders unless there is bad weather. Either route is spectacular and takes us through the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, and we are often lucky enough to see ibex, chamois, and marmots. After a hard-earned refreshment at the Lac Blanc refuge, we descend to the Flégère. From here, we take a cable car down to Les Praz and can either walk back to Chamonix along the river, or take the bus or train.

Distance: 9km / 5.6 miles
Ascent: 1,000m / 3,280 ft
Descent: 550m / 1,800 ft
Walking time: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Chamonix
Today is a long day, taking us high above the Chamonix valley with spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif, so we start early.. If we stayed in the Chamonix valley last night, we take the cable car back up to where we left off yesterday. From the Flégère, we pick up the famous Grand Balcon Sud. As we head to Planpraz, we are rewarded with views across to Mont Blanc, the Drus, and the Aiguille Verte. From Planpraz it is a steady climb to the Col du Brévent (2,368 m / 7,770 ft) and from here, we tackle a short ladder section to reach the summit of Le Brévent (2,525 m / 8,284), where there are superb 360-degree views across to the Fiz, the Aravis, and the Mont Blanc Massif. Then it is time to start a long descent to Les Houches, passing the Refuge de Bel Lachat, and eventually reaching the pine forest to the Christ Roi statue, before completing our circuit in Les Houches. There are various cable car options for those wishing to shorten the day. After 10 days of hiking, you can finally call yourself a TMB hiker! You can celebrate your great achievements with your guide and the rest of the group over dinner or by going for drinks somewhere in town.

Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
Ascent: 772 m / 2,530 ft
Descent: 1,546 m / 5,070 ft
Walking time: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Chamonix
Our alpine adventure finishes after breakfast. Take a last chance to say goodbye to your guide and fellow trekkers. Leave Chamonix or continue touring on your own.

Meals: Breakfast

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Classic Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guides

5.00

Richard Betts

International Mountain Leader

Richard is a qualified International Mountain Leader with over nine years of guiding and instructing experience. After leaving the Fire Service, he turned his full attention to the outdoors, exploring the mountains of France, Italy, the UK, Austria, and the Canadian Rockies. Rich has a passion for weather, the natural environment, and outdoor photography—interests that have even taken him storm-chasing in the USA. When he's not in the mountains, Rich serves as a Search Technician for Lowland Rescue and an Emergency First Responder. In his downtime, you'll find him climbing or out on the trails running.

5.00

Becki Penrose

Becki is a highly experienced International Mountain Leader with a passion for guiding people through some of the world’s most inspiring landscapes. She’s led walking, climbing, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking adventures, and even caving trips! Her international guiding experience spans mountain expeditions and treks in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Morocco, Bolivia, and China, as well as trail running and trekking in the European Alps. Becki brings energy, deep knowledge, and a love of the outdoors to every trip she leads.

5.00

Charlie Boscoe

Charlie has led trips across Europe, as well as to Kilimanjaro, India, Morocco, Bolivia, and Nepal in recent years. A qualified Mountain Leader and certified Wilderness First Responder, Charlie is also known for his popular Chamonix Blog and his work as a commentator for international climbing competitions. With a sharp sense of humor and serious climbing skills, he’s most often found guiding high-altitude mountaineering adventures rather than the more relaxed treks.

5.00

Ronan Bégoc

International Mountain Leader

Originally from Brittany (Bretagne), Ronan moved to the mountains 30 years ago to pursue his passion for hiking, climbing, ski touring, running, and painting. A qualified International Mountain Leader for 25 years, he has spent the last 10 years living in the Czech mountains. With a wealth of experience and a great sense of humor, Ronan loves sharing his adventures and knowledge with every group he guides.

5.00

Tom Greenall

Tom is a qualified International Mountain Leader, Wilderness First Responder and Ski Guide. Based in Les Houches, Tom guides snowshoeing and trekking trips in the Chamonix area, but also further afield, such as in Japan. When not guiding, Tom can be found climbing up, skiing or biking down alpine peaks. He also makes eco-friendly wooden skies—Tom is the founder of the award-winning eco-ski company, Idris Skis.

5.00

Ian Spare

International Mountain Leader

Ian is an International Mountain Leader and First Aid Trainer. He’s lived in Switzerland since 2003, where he also runs a B&B with his wife. Ian’s favorite trekking places are Corsica and the Dolomites, where he enjoys the food, the wine, and the beaches. Ian is the director of the British Association of International Mountain Leaders and the current president of their international association, the UIMLA.

5.00

Gary Daines

International Mountain Leader

Gary is a qualified International Mountain Leader based in Argelès, in the Pyrenees, and leads snowshoeing and trekking trips in the Chamonix area and beyond. He’s also an accredited Duke of Edinburgh Award assessor, often training and evaluating Jura snowshoe groups. Known for his great sense of humor and thoughtful, philosophical outlook, Gary is a natural with both adult and youth groups—an inspiring guide and a patient teacher. With years of experience leading trips around the world, anyone would be lucky to have Gary is their guide!

5.00

Boi Sagarra Pascual

Originally from Barcelona, Boi is a qualified International Mountain Leader and ski instructor. He’s currently working toward becoming a UIAGM mountain guide. After earning a degree in Biology, Boi set off to New Zealand to hike and climb, but a chance visit to Chamonix changed everything—he fell in love with the mountains and never looked back. Today, he splits his year between summers in the Alps and winters in the Catalan Pyrenees.

5.00

Cam Bevan

International Mountain Leader

Cam is a qualified International Mountain Leader who’s been guiding hikers through the mountains of Europe for the past seven years. His favorite regions include the Italian Dolomites, the Spanish Picos de Europa, and the Mont Blanc Massif—each offering incredible scenery, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Cam spends his summers based in Chamonix and winters in the Scottish Highlands. Outside of guiding, he’s passionate about climbing, mountaineering, and ski touring.

5.00

Emily Andrew

International Mountain Leader

Emily is a qualified International Mountain Leader with years of guiding experience. Based in Chamonix, she knows the Tour du Mont Blanc inside out but also thrives on more far-flung adventures, having recently led trips to Alaska, Norway, Kilimanjaro, and Nepal. Alongside guiding, she works full-time as an English and Geography teacher—though how she manages to stay so fit remains a mystery! In her spare time, she’s out trail running, road biking, or ski touring, and recently took on both the CCC and the Étape du Tour.

5.00

Fran Pothecary

International Mountain Leader

Fran is a qualified International Mountain Leader with over 10 years of guiding experience across the Alps and her home terrain in Scotland. She has a particular love for the Tour de Monte Rosa and the Walker’s Haute Route. Her adventures have taken her as far as Antarctica, where she’s worked at a British polar research station—and in summer, she’s often spotted kayaking among penguins. Fran also guides in Iceland, works as a photographer, and conducts biological surveys in the Cairngorms. A climber, skier, paddler, and mountain biker with an MSc in Sustainable Mountain Development, Fran simply loves being in the mountains and sharing that joy with others.

5.00

Jack Doyle

International Mountain Leader

Jack is a qualified International Mountain Leader whose love for the Alps began during his university years. Before his Computer Science degree had even settled, he was off to Chamonix to develop his mountaineering and skiing skills. Seven years on, Jack has hiked, run, skied, and climbed his way across the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps, with time also spent exploring the Scottish Highlands. He even knows his way around a cheese board, thanks to two years in a Savoyard kitchen. Now splitting his time between Chamonix and Athens, Jack is just as happy guiding you to the perfect trail as he is to the best pizza.

5.00

Jen Stretton

International Mountain Leader

Jen is a qualified International Mountain Leader and yoga teacher based in Chamonix. Her love for the Alps began during a university climbing trip, and after earning a Geography degree, she spent several years travelling, volunteering with conservation projects, and freelancing in marketing to fund her adventures. Since settling in Chamonix in 2015, Jen has combined her passion for guiding with a strong commitment to the environment. An enthusiastic climber, skier, and trail runner (often trying to keep pace with her dog), Jen brings infectious energy and deep mountain knowledge to every trip.

5.00

Joel Evans

International Mountain Leader

Joel is a qualified International Mountain Leader based in Chamonix. Just weeks after completing his Finance degree in 2011, he swapped the Welsh hills for the towering peaks of the Alps—and never looked back. Since then, he’s been exploring every corner of the Mont Blanc Massif. In winter, you’ll find him ski touring or chasing steep descents; in summer, he’s often out trail running or mountaineering.

5.00

Lolo Frison

International Mountain Leader

Lolo grew up in the “pretty but flat” heart of central France, but everything changed after a childhood winter trip to the Alps sparked a lifelong love for the mountains. After school, she explored Asia, North Africa, Australia, and spent a year working in Canada—capped off with a U.S. national parks road trip. Back in France, she became an International Mountain Leader and now shares her deep knowledge of mountain flora, fauna, and French culture on every trip. Whether guiding school groups or adult trekkers, Lolo brings enthusiasm and warmth. Off-duty, she enjoys skiing, diving, yoga, Himalayan trekking, and even beekeeping.

5.00

Marit Van Kampen

International Mountain Leader

Marit is originally from the Netherlands, where her passion for the outdoors began with ski trips to Austria. That love deepened during her university years in North Wales, where she took up hiking and rock climbing. Her adventures have since taken her across the Alps and beyond. Now based in the French Alps and teaching at an international school in Geneva, Marit is a qualified International Mountain Leader who joins the Cloud 9 team during school holidays. With a keen interest in alpine history, geology, and flora, she shares her knowledge with enthusiasm—and in four languages, no less!

5.00

Nicole Claudon

International Mountain Leader

Nicole, originally from France’s Vosges region, moved to Chamonix in 1984 with her husband, a mountain guide with the PGHM rescue service. Now based in Sallanches with their three sons, she’s been working as a qualified International Mountain Leader since 1996. In summer, Nicole leads both classic routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc and hidden gems like the Gran Paradiso and Tour des Fiz. In winter, she guides snowshoeing trips around Megève. A passionate hiker, skier, and cyclist, Nicole also travels widely—favourites include Nepal, Corsica, and Réunion Island—and spends every autumn harvesting grapes with friends for winemaking.

5.00

Pablo Herráez

Pablo, originally from Spain, is both a qualified International Mountain Leader and High Mountain Guide with a loyal following of returning clients. He moved to the Alps to fully embrace his passion for the mountains and has since built a reputation as an exceptional guide and leader. Fluent in Spanish and comfortable in both English and French, Pablo brings experience, enthusiasm, and a warm, multilingual approach to every trip.

5.00

Robin Willmott

International Mountain Leader

Robin is a qualified International Mountain Leader with expedition experience across Africa, America, Asia, and Europe. A natural explorer, he's driven by curiosity and a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes he encounters. When he's not in the mountains or deep in the jungle, Robin lives life at a different pace—navigating the UK's inland waterways aboard his bright yellow narrowboat, Goldilocks.

5.00

Susanna Walker

International Mountain Leader

Suze has lived and worked in the Alps for over 10 years and is a passionate mountaineer, trail runner, road cyclist, skier, and yogi. Based in Chamonix since 2011, she is a fully qualified International Mountain Leader. Suze’s love for skiing has taken her around the world, and in 2014, she organized a ski mountaineering expedition to climb peaks in Tajikistan. A dedicated bird watcher and nature lover, Suze enjoys everything from wandering through magical forests to tackling steep alpine ski descents. With her vast experience, she’s as comfortable in the mountains as she is immersed in nature.

5.00

Emma Jack

Emma has been leading treks and expeditions ever since 2005. She's led trips all over the world, but Corsica, Nepal, and the Alps remain her top three trekking destinations and Tour du Mont Blanc trek her favorite route. In 2009, she made the first ever ski descent of Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world. Emma is fluent in French, Russian, and Spanish.

Accommodation & food

Accommodation

During your guided TMB, you can expect a range of accommodations. In larger towns like Chamonix, Les Contamines, Courmayeur, Champex, and Argentière, minimum 3-star hotels are chosen, providing twin-shared rooms with en-suite facilities. In smaller hamlets like Les Chapieux, La Fouly, and Trient/Forclaz, where simpler accommodations prevail, the best available lodging options—mostly auberges—will be selected, although en-suite facilities may be limited.

If you opt for a single supplement, please note that this excludes Les Chapieux and Bonatti, where there are no single rooms. Single rooms may also not be available in Trient/Forclaz — it depends at which point you booked.

Food

All breakfasts and evening meals are included. Mostly you’ll dine in the accommodation you’ll be staying at, enjoying a fixed 3-course menu that showcases excellent local food from France, Italy, and Switzerland. Hotel breakfasts are continental-style, featuring tea, coffee, hot chocolate, juice, croissants, bread, jams, cereals, yogurts, and often eggs, cheese, and local meats. Breakfasts in mountain huts and simpler auberges are more basic, typically offering tea, coffee, bread, jam, and cereal.

Vegetarians are accommodated with an improving range of options, although some places may offer simpler choices like omelets or pasta. Vegans can also be catered for, but occasional breakfasts may consist mainly of fruit, so having a few snacks on hand is advisable! Your guides are vigilant and work to improve options for vegan diets with local hoteliers. Special diets due to allergies or intolerances, such as gluten-free, nut-free, or lactose-free, are accommodated to the best extent possible. However, given the set meal service in many accommodations, a wide range of options might not be available. We appreciate sticking to the specified diet, as last-minute changes are often challenging for hoteliers serving large groups.

Lunches are not included to provide flexibility. Your guide will advise on ordering lunch via the hotel, stopping at a shop or bakery for snacks, or enjoying a sit-down lunch in the refuges. While drinks are not included, you can order beer, wine, and soft drinks at all hotels, including mountain refuges. Tap water is drinkable throughout the trip.

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How to Hike the Iconic Tour Du Mont Blanc

Emma Jack

International Mountain Leader & Co-founder of Cloud 9 Adventure

4.83(12 reviews)

Gary N.

|August 2024

Nasrin T.

|July 2024

Epic experience however due to group issues and lack of interest some major trail was skipped.

Athina D.

|October 2023

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Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area (International Mountain Leader)
  - 12-day TMB Classic Trek (10 days of hiking)
  - Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
  - All breakfasts and all evening meals (detailed in the itinerary)
  - Cable cars and transport as indicated in the itinerary
  - Daily luggage delivery (apart from any nights at Bonatti or Elena huts where no luggage access is available)
Not included:
- - Transportation to and from Chamonix
  - Airport transfers — we recommend Mountain Drop-Offs
  - Personal drinks and snacks
  - Packed lunches
  - Any transport or accommodation due to a participant being unable to complete the itinerary
  - Travel and medical/rescue insurance — mandatory
  - Guide gratuities — optional
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 up to 3,000 ft (900 m) of daily ascent and descent and hiking 10 miles (16 km) on average for 10 consecutive days. Keep in mind that hiking can be made difficult because of changing weather. However, you will be able to take many breaks and your guide will adjust the route if it gets too strenuous for your group. Due to some more exposed sections, the tour is not recommended for those with severe fear of heights.

Check out the itinerary for day-by-day distances and elevation changes, but the most you’ll hike in a day is 13 mi (21 km) and you’ll gain up to 3,700 ft (1,128 m) in elevation per day.

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 activities like jogging, swimming, playing squash, or circuit 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
  - Sheet or a sleeping bag liner
  - 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 your guide prior to your trip.
Luggage delivery is included each day where there is vehicle access—only Bonatti and Elena huts do not have luggage access. Please ensure that your main kit bag weighs no more than 15 kg (33 lbs), and that it is a kit bag, duffel bag, soft case or rucksack, NOT a hard suitcase. If your trip has any nights without luggage delivery, your bag is simply delivered to the next location and you just need to carry any essentials for an overnight.
- - Please note that your bags will be weighed, and they will not be taken if they are too heavy. If you need more allowance than this, then please email us to book a second bag well in advance at an additional cost—this will be around £150, depending on your group size and trip duration.
  - Luggage needs to be ready by 08:00 daily, and is delivered by 17:30—your guides use a luggage delivery company rather than a private driver so it is not possible to ride with the baggage vehicle.
  - Note that your luggage will spend time in unlocked baggage rooms and unattended hotel reception areas—these are all in village hotels or mountain towns. Your guides have never experienced a loss or theft, but it is important to acknowledge that you are happy with this system and pack accordingly! The luggage company accept no responsibility for loss or damage to kit and advise that you do not bring any valuables. These can be either carried on you, or stored in a secure luggage room or safe in the Chamonix hotel.
  - Your guides advise using a padlock on your luggage. They also advise using an Air Tag—a couple of times, they’ve had bags go astray for a couple of hours, and it’s easier to be able to locate it quickly rather than phoning around the hotels to see if they’ve received an extra bag by mistake.
If someone gets sick or is unable to hike for a day, the guide will usually help arrange transport. This is at the expense of the client, and depending on where they are in the trip, this can either be a 300 euro taxi journey, or a 12 euro bus journey, or, if they are fortunate with the location, a free train or bus journey.

If a participant gets ill and needs an expensive taxi, they ought to be able to claim this on their travel insurance.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this group adventure, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is around 10:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.
  - The cost is per person and does not decrease as the group grows.
Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc can be arranged for larger and for private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
To get to the Chamonix, France—your starting point—most people fly into Geneva Airport in Switzerland 1.5 hours away. 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!

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, usually at your hotel in Chamonix at 6 p.m. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group to start off the tour the following morning.
Travel and medical/rescue insurance is mandatory on this tour. 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!
Deposits

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.