Tour du Mont Blanc Circuit in Comfort
Tour du Mont Blanc Circuit in Comfort
Tour du Mont Blanc Circuit in Comfort
12 Days Starting and ending in Chamonix, France
Visiting: Chamonix, Les Contamines-Montjoie, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Courmayeur, La Fouly, Champex-Lac, Martigny, Argentière
Tour operator:
Tour code:
183
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 20
Tour operated in:
English , FrenchTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Experience the classic twelve-day, anti-clockwise Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) circuit in comfort, starting and ending in Chamonix. Passing through three countries and visiting numerous peaks and valleys, this route offers spectacular vistas from start to finish whilst skirting around Mont Blanc. Highlights along the way include crossing Col de la Seigne from France into Italy, the tour’s highest point at Fenêtre d’Arpette (2,665m), followed by a descent alongside the Trient Glacier. Accommodation is in small, comfortable mountain hotels
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival To Chamonix
Location: Chamonix
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Vallée Blanche or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Welcome to Chamonix, the alpine town on the banks of L’Arve River and the official start point for the Tour du Mont Blanc. It is world-renowned for its popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. If possible, we highly recommend spending a few extra nights here at the start or end of the tour.
Day 2 : Chamonix - Les Houches 6H
Location: Chamonix
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Saint-Antoine or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today there is the option of a more relaxed start by taking the cable car up to Planpraz before a short walk to Col du Brévent (2,368m). From here, it’s possible to climb to the peak of Le Brévent (2,525m), considered one of the best lookout posts for viewing Mont Blanc, and the surrounding glaciers and peaks. Continue on the hiking trail to pass Lac du Brévent and descend to Refuge Bellachat, before resuming the steep climb. The final section of the day skirts Parc de Merlet forest before finishing in Les Houches.
Walking for the day: 12km, 6h, ?500m ?1,500m
Day 3 : Les Houches - Les Contamines-Montjoie/Saint-Gervais-Les-Bains 7-8H
Location: Les Contamines-Montjoie
Accommodation Name: La Gélinotte, Les Contamines-Montjiue or similar or La Féline Blanche, Saint Gervais or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
From Col de Voza there are two options for the route to Les Contamines-Montjoie, a shorter, easier option via Aiguille de Bionnassay, or a more scenic route across a suspension bridge spanning a torrent from Glacier de Bionnassay. The hike continues through mountain meadows to Col de Tricot (2,120m) and descends to Refuge de Miage. After a further ascent, there is a rest stop at Le Truc. The finishing point for today’s hike is Les Contamines in the Montjoie valley.
Walking for the day: 17.5km, 7-8h ?1,440m ?1,260m (easier option by cable car: 13km, 5-6h ?380m ?1,010m)
Please note: If accommodation in Les Contamines-Montjoie isn’t available, we will book you into a hotel in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains (breakfast only) and you will require a private transfer (supplemental cost).
Day 4 : Les Contamines - Les Chapieux - Bourg-Saint-Maurice 7-8H
Location: Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Accommodation Name: Hôtel Arolla or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today’s trek passes over ravines, past glacial lakes and ascends over two cols, all in the view of the southernmost point of Mont Blanc. After a short transfer from Les Contamines-Montjoie/Saint-Gervais-les-Bains to Notre Dame de la Gorge church, where the long ascent to Col du Bonhomme (2,329m) and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2,450m) begins. Take a rest at Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme before the last descent to Les Chapieux. From here, take the public shuttle to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, a lively mountain town with plenty of options for dinner.
Walking for the day: 15.5km, 7-8h ?1,300m ?950m
Please note: The public shuttle does not run during the low season, so private transfers will be arranged (supplemental cost).
Day 5 : Bourg-Saint-Maurice - Vallée Des Glaciers - Courmayeur 5-6H
Location: Courmayeur
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bouton d’Or or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the morning with a short bus transfer to Vallée des Glaciers before beginning the climb up to Col de la Seigne, crossing the border from France into Italy. The route continues through fields towards Rifugio Elisabetta, where there is an opportunity for a break. Continue on to La Visaille to catch the bus to Courmayeur.
Walking for the day: 16km, 5-6h ?795m ?900m
Please note: The public bus does not run during the low season, so private transfers will be arranged (supplemental cost).
Day 6 : Courmayeur - Val Ferret - Courmayeur (Or Rest Day In Courmayeur) 7-8H
Location: Courmayeur
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bouton d’Or or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Option of either a rest day in Courmayeur or hiking up to Val Ferret before returning via public bus. From Courmayeur, follow the mountain path to Rifugio Giorgio Bertone and along the crest of Mont de la Saxe to Tête de la Tronche, offering views along the south side of the Mont Blanc range. The path continues over bridges and brooks, passing Rifugio Walter Bonatti ariving at Chalet Val Ferret, which sits at the foot of Val Ferret. From here, take the bus back to your accommodation in Courmayeur.
Walking for the day: 16.5km, 7-8h ?1,140m ?560m
Please note: The public bus does not run during the low season, so private transfers will be arranged (supplemental cost).
Day 7 : Val Ferret - La Fouly 4-5H
Location: La Fouly
Accommodation Name: L' Edelweiss or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin the morning with a short bus transfer back up to Val Ferret before setting off over Grand Col Ferret (2,537m), heading out of Italy and into Switzerland’s rolling pastures. Rest in one of the mountain lodges along the route before continuing on to La Fouly.
Walking for the day: 13km, 4-5h ?770m ?945m
Please note: The public bus does not run during the low season, so private transfers will be arranged (supplemental cost).
Day 8 : La Fouly - Champex-Lac/Orsières
Location: Champex-Lac
Accommodation Name: Hôtel du Glacier, Champex-Lac or similar or Hôtel Terminus, Orsières or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today marks the easiest day of the TMB route, with much less elevation change than previous walks. Dranse River accompanies the trail on this leisurely hike past high mountains, through forests, meadows and traditional mountain villages towards the valley. At the end of the hike, the Murmeltierweg (Marmot trail) takes you up to Champex-Lac. If staying in Orsières, take a short bus from Champex down to Orsières.
Walking for the day: 15km, 4-5h ?535m ?670m
Day 9 : Champex-Lac - Trient - Martigny
Location: Martigny
Accommodation Name: Martigny Boutique-Hôtel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This day of walking has the option of two routes which vary in difficulty. The Fenêtre d’Arpette should only be considered in fair weather, as this challenging path reaches the highest point of the TMB, and offers views across the Trient Glacier and down into Vallée du Trient. The alternative route via Alp Bovine, a more leisurely route that follows the northern contours of the rocky spur, leading through high alpine pastures and passing a lunch spot at Alp Bovine (1,987m). End the day by taking a public bus from Trient down to Martigny.
Walking for the day: Via Fenêtre d’Arpette 15km, 5-6h ?1,190m ?1,350m (via Alp Bovine 15.5km, 6-7h ?770m ?945m)
Day 10 : Martigny - Trient - Argentie`Re
Location: Argentière
Accommodation Name: Le Dahu or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today starts with an early morning bus back to Trient before beginning the climb up to Col de Balme (2,191m), and on to the mountain lodge of Refuge du Col de Balme, for a short rest with views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley. Descend to the open saddle of Col des Posettes (2,201m) and head along the Kammweg ridge over the summit of L'Aiguillette des Posettes, with a views of surrounding glaciers. The walk ends with a steep descent following a mountain stream to Argentière.
Walking for the day: 16km, 5-6h ?1,170m ?1,230m
Day 11 : Argentie`Re - Chamonix
Location: Chamonix
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vallée Blanche
Meals Included: Breakfast
This is one of the most challenging sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Using a combination of fixed ladders and timber-braced steps over steep rocks to reach Refuge du Lac Blanc. In the afternoon, follow the path across Grand Balcon to Planpraz, which has a cafe at an altitude of 2,000m, for a final break before heading back down the cable car to the mountaineering hub of Chamonix.
Walking for the day: 15.5km, 7h ?1,440m ?1,620m (easier option by cable car: ?1,440m ?685m)
Please note:
The ladder section on this day is very steep and exposed, with some scrambling elements. For those with a fear of heights or who are feeling fatigued from the previous day’s walking, an alternative lower route along the Petit Balcon Sud to Chamonix is available.
Day 12 : Departure Or Extra Nights
Location: Chamonix
Chamonix is a great place to spend a couple of days, and we recommend adding some extra nights here. There, you can walk in Aiguilles Rouges National Nature Reserve, take the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi (3,795m), or take the Montenvers Railway to Mer de Glace.
What's Included
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Meals
Breakfast is included daily, with additional dinners provided on certain days.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in various hotels or similar establishments throughout the tour.
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Transfers
Public bus transfers are included where applicable, with private transfers arranged during the low season at a supplemental cost.
What's Not Included
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Private Transfers
Private transfers during the low season are not included and incur a supplemental cost.
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Additional Nights
Extra nights in Chamonix or other locations are not included in the tour package.
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Cable Car Fees
Cable car fees for optional routes are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with a mix of public buses, private transfers, and cable cars, ensuring seamless transitions between hiking destinations. Some transfers may incur additional costs during the low season, providing flexibility and ease throughout your journey.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays at charming hotels such as Hôtel Vallée Blanche, Hôtel Saint-Antoine, and Hotel Bouton d’Or, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Experience the warmth of local hospitality with breakfast included, and some locations providing dinner as well.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the Tour du Mont Blanc Circuit?
The tour uses a mix of public buses, private transfers, and cable cars to ensure seamless transitions between hiking destinations. Some transfers may incur additional costs during the low season.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in comfortable hotels such as Hôtel Vallée Blanche, Hôtel Saint-Antoine, and Hotel Bouton d’Or, which offer a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Breakfast is included, and some locations also provide dinner.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, breakfast is included daily, and additional dinners are provided on certain days.
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What happens if I want to take a rest day during the tour?
On Day 6, you have the option to take a rest day in Courmayeur instead of hiking up to Val Ferret.
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What are the options for the hike on Day 9?
On Day 9, you can choose between two routes: the challenging Fenêtre d’Arpette, which should only be attempted in fair weather, or the more leisurely route via Alp Bovine.
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Is there an alternative route for those who are afraid of heights on Day 11?
Yes, for those with a fear of heights or who are fatigued, an alternative lower route along the Petit Balcon Sud to Chamonix is available instead of the steep ladder section.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t
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Low Deposit
The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.
Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.