Mont Blanc Highlights

Mont Blanc Highlights

2,192 Views
8 Days From

$2325

Mont Blanc Highlights

8 Days Starting and ending in Chamonix

Visiting: France, Switzerland, Italy

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

TWN

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 14

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, Photography

Activities:

Trekking, Walking

From: $2325

NB: Prices correct on 04-Jul-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

The circuit of Mont Blanc is one of the finest walking routes in the Alps. It is in reality a series of paths linking the seven valleys that surround the highest mountain in Western Europe, Mont Blanc. It normally takes a fortnight to complete the whole circuit, but for those with less time this one-week Exodus tour takes in the most outstanding sections with beautiful mountain highlights each day. Throughout this walking holiday we are based in the delightful chalet with dramatic views of Mont Blanc, and use a mix of private bus and local trains and buses to travel out each day to re-join the next stage of our walk covering beautiful sections of the famous circuit. At the end of each day we return home for afternoon tea, or for those who wish, a dip in the chalet’s bubbling Jacuzzi.

Highlights

  • Walk surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery

  • Walk with IML qualified Mountain Leader

  • Stay in a comfortable chalet with outdoor hot tub

Itinerary

Day 1


Fly to Geneva; transfer to your chalet.  There is plenty of time to walk
into Chamonix in the afternoon before a pre-dinner briefing from the walking
leader.



Day 2


Our first walk of the week is on the slopes of the Col de Balme from where we
will have stunning views back to Mont Blanc as well as into Switzerland. From
the small hamlet of Montroc (1380m – 4400ft) we have a short warm-up walk
before the trail turns uphill on a steady zigzag path. As the trees thin out,
the views get ever better and by late morning we reach Aiguilette des
Possettes (2200m – 7220 ft). This is a magnificent peak from where we are
rewarded with panoramic view over the Chamonix Valley, the Aiguille Rouge
national park and around to Switzerland. The path continues down to the Col
des Possettes and then on a steady trail becoming ever more winding and
finally down to La Tour. (1450m – 4750ft).
6 hours walking. 820m - 2700ft up, 730m – 2400ft down



Day 3


Today we have a spectacular walk from (1370m – 4450ft) up to the Bel Lachat
refuge on the classic TMB and GR5 routes. Crossing the beautiful Carlaveyron
Natural Reserve, we summit the Aiguillette des Houches (2285m – 7500ft) for
one of the finest views in the Alps - looking directly across the Chamonix
Valley to the Mont Blanc summit. Passing through alpine meadows we descend by
a different route to La Flatière (1370m – 4500ft).
7 hours walking. 900m – 2950ft up, 930m – 3050ft down



Day 4


Approximately a 35-minute transfer from our chalet brings us to the les
Contamines valley which is where we start our walk back towards the Chamonix
Valley. The day starts on a valley path that narrows and steepens as we climb
up towards the Passerelle de Bionnassay, a dramatic suspension bridge
spanning a white-water stream that tumbles from the Bionnassay glacier a few
100 meters higher up. The route then brings us round to the Col de Voza
(1653m – 5360ft) with an expansive view up the Chamonix Valley. During the
afternoon we trek down to the valley floor although there is a cable car
option (payable locally) for those with tired legs.

7 hours walking, 11km – 7 miles, 560m –1840ft up, 610m – 2000ft down



Day 5


Today is a free day for optional walks or sightseeing. Your leader will be
able to advise you of possible walking routes or you may choose to visit the
bustling alpine resort town of Chamonix, which has numerous shops, bars,
restaurants and cafés. There are several cablecar excursions you can make
from Chamonix, of which the most spectacular is the ascent to the Aiguille du
Midi (3842m - 12600ft), offering fantastic views of Mont Blanc and
surrounding peaks. It should also be possible to take the mountain train up
to Montenvers for close up views of the glacier, Mer de Glace or if you are
feeling adventurous you could enjoy a tandem Paragliding flight. 



Day 6


We drive through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Italy for a chance to soak up some
Italian atmosphere! From Arp Nouva (1770m – 5805ft) we climb up and along
to the Bonatti refuge. At just over (2000m – 6560ft), the view from here is
one of the finest on the tour. Mont Blanc itself, the towering rocky peak of
Grandes Jorasses and the glaciers that crowd the northern flank of Val Ferret
are there to be admired. Following a dramatic traversing path we contour high
above the valley before descending towards the valley floor. Time allowing,
we head off to Courmayeur, the perfect spot for a well-deserved Italian
ice-cream.
7 hours walking. 450m – 1500ft up, 550m – 1804ft down



Day 7


From Argentiere (1250m – 4100ft) we start our day following the petit
Balcon Sud before changing tack and climbing to the Grand Balcon Sud that
contours the Chamonix valley to Plan Praz (2000m – 6560ft) from where we
descend by cable car back to Chamonix. The Grand Balcon Sud is a stunning
must do walk in the valley and looks over to Mont Blanc and the Mont Blanc
massif.  The views of snowy peaks, soaring cliffs, fractured glaciers and
lush green forests ensures this trek is not just a highlight in the valley
but the whole of the Alps.

(Due to maintenance on the Flegere cablecar this walk has been amended from
our previously advertised walk to Lac Blanc. This trek is a little longer
than the original and is equally beautiful).

7 hours walking. 800m – 1690ft up, 100m – 330ft down 

Spring and Autumn departures - The Plan Praz cablecar is open for trips
starting between 15th June and 7th Sep. Outside of this time the cablecar is
due to be closed and its cost is no longer included in the price of the
holiday. If the timetable changes, and the lift is open, then the cable
cost will be paid locally. Approx 20 euro. Alternatively we will follow a
Spring and Autumn itinerary which is the same as above but instead of
walking from Flegere to Plan Praz we will walk off the mountain from Flegere
via the charming Chalet Floria where we will have time for a cup of tea. Due
to the added decent this is a little harder that the summer itinerary but
the views are equally stunning.

8 hours walking. 740 m – 2430ft up, 950m – 3120ft down  - Distance
covered: 12 km / 7.5 miles



Day 8


Following breakfast we say our goodbyes.  Those on the group flights will
transfer to Geneva; fly to London.



What's Included

  • Meals
    7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners.


* All breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches, 6 home cooked dinners
* Afternoon tea and cake on walking days
* All accommodation
* All transport and listed activities
* Tour leader throughout
* Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

What's Not Included

  • Single accommodation (not available)

  • Travel insurance

  • Visas and vaccinations

Food


All breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches and 6 dinners are included in the price of
the trip. All food is home cooked in the chalet using local ingredients.

*Typical Meals:*

Breakfast: Buffet style breakfast will usually consist of cereal, eggs,
orange juice, croissant, fresh French bread, butter, jam, tea or coffee.

Lunch: Picnic style lunches will normally include bread, fresh salad
vegetables, cold meats or tinned fish, cheese and fresh fruit.

Evening meal: A single menu is prepared each evening for the whole group and
this will normally consist of a first course of soup, salad or charcuterie, a
main course of meat or fish with rice, potatoes or pasta and vegetables,
followed by dessert and tea or coffee. The price of the evening meal does not
include wine, beer, bottled water or soft drinks.

Vegetarian, gluten and dairy free diets: Although we serve a single menu each
night for the whole group we will happily shop for and prepare alternative
menus for vegetarian, gluten and dairy free diets, but please inform us at
the time of booking. *Please note – to reduce food wastage we shop to exact
quantities for the whole week in advance, so if you have requested a certain
diet please remain with that diet for the whole trip.*

Accommodation

We use three alpine chalets with comfortable lounges and dining rooms. All have a large table where delicious home-cooked meals are served and scrumptious cakes are provided daily for afternoon tea. Chalupa and Chocolat have a private outdoor area and a hot tub, and Bediere has access to communal gardens and is only a five-minute walk to the centre of Chamonix.



Chalets provide a more intimate experience than traditional hotels and the dining room often becomes a hub of living in the evening and a space to share stories from the day. Meals are prepared by the chalet hosts and enjoyed around a communal table.



Additionally, the hosts live on site meaning they are available for any situation that arises. Generally, they won’t enter your rooms to change towels, make beds or clean, but they are happy to help if you feel your room needs a midweek service. None of the rooms have air conditioning but we do provide electric fans.



Friends and family can typically be allocated to the same chalet, even if you have different booking references. Please notify your sales representative at the time of booking if this applies to you.



Chalet Chocolat



A seven-minute train ride (or 25-minute walk) from the heart of Chamonix, this seven-room chalet has a traditional alpine feel, plus a lovely garden and cosy atmosphere. Bedrooms vary in size and shape and some (not all) have access to a balcony.



Chalet Chalupa



In the pretty resort of Les Houches, Chalet Chalupa provides modern chalet accommodation in the Chamonix Valley. It has six well-proportioned rooms and an extensive deck with a fire pit. Twenty minutes from central Chamonix by bus, the chalet provides a spacious and comfortable living space with the amenities of Les Houches nearby.



Chalet Bediere



Only a five-minute walk from the centre of Chamonix, this 1920s mansion has five stylish rooms and a communal outdoor space with mountain views. It is decorated in an art deco style and was refurbished in 2023, keeping the original character of the property.



Worth knowing



On booking, your confirmation documents will name Chalet Chalupa; however, you may be allocated to Chalet Chocolat or Chalet Bediere. This is confirmed on your Final Joining Instructions sent four weeks before your departure date.

If you prefer one chalet over the other, please let us know at the time of booking and we will do our best to fulfil your request. Requests for a specific chalet must be made to our customer operations team six weeks before departure at the latest. The walking itinerary is the same for all chalets; however, the order of the walks may differ slightly.

In Chalet Chocolat, one top-floor bedroom has a window in the roof rather than a wall-mounted window, and a large private bathroom on the floor below. There is also a smaller twin room on the ground floor of the property with a private bathroom. Both of these rooms are used as single rooms and are usually allocated to the first single people to book.

There are no guest laundry or parking facilities at the chalets. If you are driving, please speak to your operations executive about parking options.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the maximum group size?

    14

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Minimum 16 year age people can go on this tour.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    7 nights in comfortable chalet

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    No visa required for British passport holders.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes.

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    There are no specific health risks.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Mount Blanc Highlights supported hiking

Overall a good trip, we stayed at Chalet Chalupa a

Overall a good trip, we stayed at Chalet Chalupa a short free bus ride from busy Chaminoux. Our Chalet hosts Adrian and Helena were exceptional and made us all feel at home. They cooked all meals, provided transport and kept the place clean. They went above and beyon to get me ice for my beverages, had home baked "End of hike treats" and created a family atmosphere among strangers. My favorite dessert was the cheesecake! This Chalet has a hot tub too! Our guide Jen was awesome as well, she took us on a bus ride to understand the system, let us know the bus would be crowded, pointed out good places to shop for deals and best food places. She also explained the cable car pricing for our free day. Every night she had a brief of the next day hike and what to expect.

A great experience

I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the trip and

I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the trip and was so impressed with how well we were looked after. All the travel arrangements went smoothly, the chalet was great and the food superb (thanks Zohi & Ben) and our guide Sally was brilliant. I'll definitely recommend Exodus to my friends and I'm already thinking of another trip.

A fantastic trip!

I just had a fabulous week at Chalet Chalupa! The

I just had a fabulous week at Chalet Chalupa! The hosts, Adrian & Helena, were amazing. They were very friendly and always made sure that we're happy. They always prepared delicious meals and cakes with wide variety (local, Mediterranean, healthy and oriental) and we all enjoyed it together with the group of great people. The room was specious and comfortable, the common areas were also always clean and had warm atmosphere. The car ride by them was also really fun and informative about the trip/area. Our guide, Shaun, was very knowledgeable and flexible based on the weather etc. This was my first hiking experience and he absolutely made it special. Everyday there were full of amazing views and walks!

Spectacular trip

This is a spectacular trip The hikes are wonderful

This is a spectacular trip The hikes are wonderful very well planned and guided. Our guide Evgenia was outstanding. She planned which hike to do based on the conditions but was flexible taking into account all the abilities of the group. She communicated well with everyone and had a great sense of humour. The chalet chapula hosts were also wonderful. They were very accommodating and the meals were indeed something to look forward to. I was aware that the rooms in chalet chapula were not identical but our room was very good for us. The one comment about the hiking was that I think these hikes were more like a 4/7 rather than a 3/7. As such I would suggest a higher level of preparation for this hike.

Excellent holiday

It was an excellent holiday. The leader had local

It was an excellent holiday. The leader had local knowledge and involved everyone. The hostesses were excellent and prepared some lovely meals.

Amazing walks & Delightful Chalet Chocolat

As many have stated before, one of the best trips

As many have stated before, one of the best trips with countless superb views making it well worthwhile the walk uphill. Zohi's cooking skills lived up to expectation and we are still talking about our favourite meals a week after we returned. The duck in our last evening was a rare treat & the tarte au citron was one of the best ever tasted (and we've tried many). We were particularly lucky to achieve the Italian walk before the road was closed due to avalanche danger. The tunnel is a special highlight too.

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

A truly excellent Way of experiencing Europe's mos

A truly excellent Way of experiencing Europe's most fantastic landscape.

Fantastic Trip!

Highly recommend this trip, everything was great f

Highly recommend this trip, everything was great from the magnificent walks to the incredible food. The chalet itself and town of Chamonix are lovely, and each day trip and hike provided beautiful scenery.

Magnifique!

Exodus,Chalet Chocolat,Ben,Zohi,Shaun,Mark and Kat

Exodus,Chalet Chocolat,Ben,Zohi,Shaun,Mark and Kate-thank you so much for a truly magical experience in the French,Swiss and Italian Alps. The list of superlatives to describe this experience is long but magnificent,extraordinary,stupendous,colossal,transformational and gourmet all spring to mind. The day begins with fresh croissants,pain au chocolat,strong coffee,cereal,yoghurt and fruits to fortify for a day of exertion as we wandered and took in the various delights of the Chamonix Valley in the very capable hands of guide Shaun. The steep,snow-tipped peaks,hanging glaciers,lakes,forest,ancient village houses,cows with bells,flowers,mountain cafes and wildlife are a very bewitching and intoxicating combination,we all felt like we were in a scene from The Sound of Music or Heidi.Our baguette,cheese and ham packed lunch was eaten in a scenic location with jaw-dropping views,our legs were tired and sore by the time we'd descended back to the chalet for a freshly-baked cake (thanks Zohi!) then into the jacuzzi for a well-deserved soak before a beer or wine and some gourmet dinner and dessert treats prepared lovingly by Ben and Zohi.Each day was different and stimulating,the local town of Chamonix was very attractive with its fine restaurants,quality shops and museums and inspiring alpine back-drop. We've all left a piece of our hearts in Chamonix and many of us will surely return there for another active alpine holiday. Merci bien Chamonix- à bientôt!

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

A superb taste of Mont Blanc walks in a week - the

A superb taste of Mont Blanc walks in a week - the best bits ! Good weather, good company, excellent leader and cuisine. Challenging but correctly guaged as Moderate and something for everyone.

Read all 276 reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 13, 2024 - Jul 20, 2024
$2775
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 20, 2024 - Jul 27, 2024
$2773 $2505

Operator discount: -$268

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 27, 2024 - Aug 03, 2024
$2773 $2370

Operator discount: -$403

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 03, 2024 - Aug 10, 2024
$2773 $2355

Operator discount: -$418

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 10, 2024 - Aug 17, 2024
$2773 $2505

Operator discount: -$268

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 17, 2024 - Aug 24, 2024
$2773 $2355

Operator discount: -$418

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 24, 2024 - Aug 31, 2024
$2773 $2490

Operator discount: -$283

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2024 - Sep 07, 2024
$2773 $2640

Operator discount: -$133

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 07, 2024 - Sep 14, 2024
$2775
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 14, 2024 - Sep 21, 2024
$2775
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 28, 2024
$2773 $2400

Operator discount: -$373

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 05, 2024
$2773 $2565

Operator discount: -$208

Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

May 17, 2025 - May 24, 2025
$2325
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

May 24, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$2325
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$2475
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 14, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 23, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
$2550
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025
$2475
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$2475
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 04, 2025
$2325
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Saturday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025
$2325

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.