Overview
Glacier-clad Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps, with seven gorgeous valleys radiating into France, Italy, and Switzerland. Our journey circles this famed massif, crossing from one country to the next—on foot! The TMB is one of the “Great Hikes of the World,” and we’ve honed this classic to perfection with impeccably designed hiking days as we explore each country’s cultural and culinary delights. Overnights are in cozy mountain hotels and inns, and our expert Trip Leaders (up to three on each trip) bring wonderful esprit to the adventure.
We had the time of our lives! I wouldn't have changed anything; I loved it all. Each guide was outstanding and we enjoyed all aspects of their knowledge and professionalism. Thanks for being so organized and awesome—you made it all so easy!
— Elly M., Iron Ridge, WI
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-2
Chamonix / Col de Tricot
From charming Chamonix, the mountaineering “capital” of Europe, our first hike is up to the Aiguille Rouges for panoramas across the entire Chamonix Valley. Another hike brings us to the Bionnassay Glacier and then the Col de Tricot (6,955'). Chamonix sits right at the foot of Mont Blanc (15,770'), the highest mountain in Western Europe.
Days 3-5
Into Italy / Col de la Croix du Bonhomme / Courmayeur
Starting from the chapel of Notre Dame de la Gorge, we hike through gentle forests to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. On Day 4, we leave France and enter the Aosta region of Italy along a route once used by Roman legionnaires. From the remote Vallee des Glaciers, we climb eastward to the Col de la Seigne (8,255'), the hydrologic divide between the Atlantic and Mediterranean. We’ll enjoy fantastic vistas of Mont Blanc’s sheer 11,000-foot southern face as we go, then descend to Courmayeur, the Italian counterpart of Chamonix, situated below Mont Blanc. In Courmayeur, we can enjoy a rest day or an optional cable car ride to Pointe Helbronner (11,371'), which marks the border between Italy and France.
Days 6-7
Into Switzerland / Champex / Trient Glacier / Col de la Forclaz
Crossing into Switzerland on foot, we traverse the Val Ferret beneath the massive granite peaks of Mont Dolent (12,543'), the Dent du Géant, and the Grandes Jorasses. As we cross the spectacular Grand Col Ferret (8,324'), we’ll have stunning views of the icy southern flanks of the Mont Blanc massif, and in the far distance, the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa. From lakeside Champex, we follow a shepherds’ trail, ascending gently with views of the Rhone Valley. The magnificent Trient Glacier is in view as we cross the Col de la Forclaz (5,010').
Days 8-9
Col de Balme / Chamonix
Climbing to the Col de Balme (7,201'), the border between Switzerland and France, we once again see the beautiful Chamonix Valley. With the glory of the Mont Blanc massif above us, we descend to Chamonix, mission accomplished! Depart on Day 9.
Tour du Mont Blanc
Highlights
Highlights
Details
8 hiking days on moderate to steep trails, 6-8 hours a day, altitudes between 4,000-8,800 feet, team of up to 3 Trip Leaders, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day's hike). This is a strenuous hiking trip, read “What the Trip is Like” for more details.
