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Tour Overview
Embark on the Mont Blanc Circuit Hike, a thrilling self-guided adventure through the breathtaking European Alps, traversing France, Italy, and Switzerland. This exhilarating trek offers the chance to circumnavigate the majestic Mont Blanc, crossing high passes and experiencing diverse landscapes. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow hikers in mountain refuges and gîte hostels, where you can savor regional culinary delights like Raclette. The journey includes luggage transfers, except for a few days where you'll carry your essentials, and offers the flexibility of upgrading to a double room on select nights. With an information pack and navigational app provided, this tour is perfect for experienced hikers seeking an active and culturally enriching experience amidst some of the most stunning alpine scenery. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Commence Chamonix and hike to Le Tour (5hrs, +450m)
Location: Chamonix, Mont Blanc Massif, Argentiere Glacier, Aiguille du Tour, Le Tour
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Dinner
Leaving from Chamonix, take a balcony trail above Chamonix town. Heading up the valley the trail takes in the huge expanse of the Mont Blanc Massif, the Argentiere glacier and the Aiguille du Tour (3542m). It is an exhilarating hike and a fabulous start to the week. Overnight Le Tour.Distance 10km/6.2mi, +450m/1476ft, -150m/492ft ...more ...less
Day 2 : Hike to Trient or Col de la Forclaz (6-7hrs, +700m/2297ft, -900m/2953ft)
Location: Le Tour, Mont Blanc, Trient, Col de la Forclaz
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving from Le Tour in the Chamonix valley, you take the scenic high mountain path of Balme heading towards Switzerland. Weather permitting you will be able to take some wonderful photos of the Mont Blanc chain including the impressive “La Verte”, the Drus and the Needles of Chamonix. You will cross the border between France and Switzerland before making your way down to the village of Trient for overnight accommodation or continue to the nearby Col de la Forclaz.(9km, +700m/2297ft, -900m/2953ft)
Day 3 : Hike to Champex (5-6hrs, +900m/2952ft, -650m/2132ft)
Location: Bovine Alps, Rhone Valley, Champex
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The trail continues through impressive forests with a strong ascent to the high mountain pastures of the Bovine Alps. The route takes you past shepherds huts and small farms always with views of impressive peaks such as Grand Combin to the south and later to the dramatic depths of the Rhone Valley. The Bovine hut is a great place to stop for lunch where you can spot Marmots playing in the slopes nearby. Descend along a forest trail to the pretty town of Champex located by the lake of the same name. An alternative route is via the “Fenêtre d'Arpette” (2665m), however due to the instability of this trail we do not recommend this route. (+900m/2953ft, -650m/2132ft)
Day 4 : To La Fouly (5-6hrs, +500m/1640ft, -600m/1969ft)
Location: La Fouly
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Although this is most definitely an easier day, it is also one that highlights some amazing natural beauty. Dry meadows, pools of fresh water, herds of cows and wonderful chalets surrounded by flower filled gardens greet us. Swiss village life is all around and whilst the dramatic scenery of previous days is not as apparent, it is a chance to experience the wonderful “Valais des homes”. Overnight in La Fouly.(15km, +500m/1640ft, -600m/1969ft)
Day 5 : To Courmayeur (6-7hrs, +900m, -900m)
Location: Grand Col Ferret, Pre de Bar Glacier, Courmayeur
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The route takes you out of Switzerland and into Italy by the Grand Col Ferret path. The sight of the Pre de Bar glacier is with you all the way as you make your way from the Col to the road head in the Val Ferret. Bus to Courmayeur.(13km, +900m/2953ft, -900m/2953ft)
Day 6 : Hike to Elisabetta (5-6hrs, +1560m/5118ft,-460m/1509ft)
Location: Courmayeur, Col Checroui, Val Veny, Lake Combal, Col de la Seigne
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning you will need to pack your overnight requirements for the next two nights in your daypack. Your main luggage will be waiting for you in Les Contamines on the afternoon of day 7. From the centre of Courmayeur the hike heads steeply up a switchback trail to the Col Checroui. From here you continue the ascent to a steep spur at the top of the valley Veni where the views are spectacular. This balcony trail has some of the most dramatic views of the entire TMB trail. The descent is quite steep to the relatively flat valley floor. Skirting Lake Combal, the trail ascends at the head of the valley to the refuge.(18km, +1560m/5118ft,-460m/1509ft)Note: There are options to shorten by taking a bus in the event of poor weather or from around mid July to the end of August you can take a chairlift from Courmayeur (cutting out 700m of the ascent).
Day 7 : Cross the Col de la Seigne to France enroute to Bonhomme (6hrs, +1147m/3763ft, 1004m/3294ft)
Location: Col de la Seigne, Mont Blanc massif, Vallee des Glaciers, Col de la Croix
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
From the refuge Elisabetta, the trail takes you to the border of Italy and France at the Col de la Seigne (2518m) in time for an early morning view which, in good weather, will be extraordinary with sweeping views of the Mont Blanc massif and surrounding glaciers and valleys. Descend via a switchback trail to the Vallee des Glaciers, passing by a cheese maker where you have opportunities (if open) to sample Beaufort cheese. A big ascent (949m) through alpine meadows and over small streams leads to your overnight refuge just below the pass of Col de la Croix.(20km,+1147m/3763ft,1004m/3294ft)
Day 8 : Hike to Les Contamines via the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (3hrs +40m)
Location: Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, Col du Bonhomme, Notre Dame de la Gorge, Les Contamines
Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning the trail traverses mountain pastures to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2433m) where there are brilliant views southeast to the peaks of the Vanoise. The trail continues down to the Col du Bonhomme (2329m) and crosses the Contamines Natural Reserve. A sharp descent through a pine forest fringed gorge takes us to an ancient Roman Road and the church of Notre Dame de la Gorge, and further on to Les Contamines. (13km, +40m/131ft, -1316m/4317ft)Note: Your main luggage will be waiting for you in your accommodation in Les Contamines.
Day 9 : Hike to Les Houches (5 or 7hrs, +633m or 1318m)
Location: La Gruvaz, Le Champel, Bionnassay, Col de Voza, Mont Truc, Col du Tricot, Les Houches, Chamonix
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trail takes you along the river valley and heads slowly to La Gruvaz before continuing to Le Champel and a fairly steep ascent via Bionnassay to the Col de Voza. A longer route can be taken following a combination of tracks and trails above Contamines before you ascend to cross a shoulder of Mont Truc followed by an ascent of the Col du Tricot (2120m) which forms the divide between the Miage and Bionnasay Valleys. From here you have some spectacular views of limestone cliffs and the pistes below. The descent follows a combination of gravel roads and tracks past some settlements to reach Les Houches. Return to your pre tour hotel in Chamonix by bus or train to collect your luggage.Alternate route via the Col de Voza (4.5hrs, +633m, -646m)(20km, +1318m/4324ft, -1478m/4849ft)
What's Included
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Accommodation
8 nights in mountain refuges/gîte-hostels -
Travel to and from the start/end point of your hike
Travel to and from the start/end point of your hike is included.
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Luggage transfer
Luggage transfer (max 15kgs - soft duffel style luggage only) is included except on days 6-8 where you will need to carry your overnight requirements.
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Information pack
An information pack including a Navigational App and TMB hiking map (1:50,000) per group of 1-4 people is included.
What's Not Included
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Lunches and Drinks
Lunches and drinks are not included.
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Personal Items
Items of a personal nature are not included. On some nights, showers may cost extra (allow €2 per shower).
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Luggage Storage
Storage of luggage is not included. Please ensure your pre-tour hotel will store luggage before you book.
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Tour Guide
A tour guide is not included as this is a self-guided walking trip.
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Transfers
Transfers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Public Transport
Public transport, including cable cars, is not included.
Accommodation
Experience 8 nights in mountain refuges or gîte-hostels, with mixed dormitory-style accommodation. Rooms can host up to 40 people, but typically accommodate 10-12. Beds are often bunks or long platforms with separate mattresses. Shared bathrooms and toilets are standard, with blankets or duvets provided.
Grading
GRADE 4 - Daily hikes of around 5-7 hours, between 8 and 20km and maximum ascents of 1320 metres per day. The timing provided in the itinerary is a guide only and is for the hiking components only – rest breaks are not included. There are some challenging stages during the hike with steep uphills, descents, and many sections of the trail which require care. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good to excellent level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced hikers only. You should also be able to navigate in alpine regions using a map. Whilst the route is very well marked and well trodden, adverse weather conditions may make navigation difficult without reference to a map and our navigational App. Early in the season (June) you may encounter snow on the passes which may be quite deep and alter the grading of the trip to advanced. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel to and from the hike's start/end point is included, with luggage transfer (max 15kgs) provided, except on days 6-8 when you must carry overnight essentials. Your main luggage will be available at the accommodation in the Contamines Valley.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the Mont Blanc Circuit Hike?
Accommodation is provided in mountain refuges or gîte hostels, typically in mixed dormitory style. There can be up to 40 people in one room, but usually around 10-12. Beds are often bunks or one long platform with separate mattresses. Blankets or duvets and usually pillows are provided. Bathrooms and toilets are shared. ...more ...less
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Is there an option for private accommodation during the hike?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a double room on 5 out of the 8 nights for an additional cost, but this is only possible for two people traveling together. The double room option is not available for single travelers.
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What meals are included in the Mont Blanc Circuit Hike?
The tour includes 8 breakfasts and 8 dinners. Continental breakfasts are served, usually consisting of breads, jams, coffee, tea, and juices. Dinner will consist of 2 or 3 courses, including regional specialties. Drinks are not included.
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Do I need to carry my luggage during the hike?
Luggage transfer is provided for most of the hike, with a maximum of 15kgs allowed in soft duffel style luggage. However, on days 6-8, you will need to carry your overnight requirements as your main luggage will meet you at the accommodation in the Contamines Valley.
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What should I expect in terms of hiking difficulty and fitness level required?
The hike is graded as a level 4, with daily hikes of around 5-7 hours, covering 8 to 20km and maximum ascents of 1320 meters per day. It includes some challenging stages with steep uphills and descents. A good to excellent level of fitness is required, and it is suitable for experienced hikers only. Participants should be able to navigate in alpine regions using a map. ...more ...less
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What happens if the weather conditions are poor during the hike?
Adverse weather conditions may make navigation difficult, and participants should be prepared for all conditions, including snow, ice, strong sun, and extreme winds. Early in the season, snow on the passes may alter the grading of the trip to advanced. There are options to shorten the hike by taking a bus or chairlift in the event of poor weather.
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How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
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What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
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I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Mont Blanc Circuit Hike
9 Days Starting and ending in Chamonix Valley, France
Visiting: Chamonix, Mont Blanc Massif, Argentiere Glacier, Aiguille du Tour, Le Tour, Mont Blanc, Trient, Col de la Forclaz, Bovine Alps, Rhone Valley, Champex, La Fouly, Grand Col Ferret, Pre de Bar Glacier, Courmayeur, Col Checroui, Val Veny, Lake Combal, Col de la Seigne, Mont Blanc massif, Vallee des Glaciers, Col de la Croix, Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, Col du Bonhomme, Notre Dame de la Gorge, Les Contamines, La Gruvaz, Le Champel, Bionnassay, Col de Voza, Mont Truc, Col du Tricot, Les Houches ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MBS
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
