Tour du Mont Blanc Highlights (Guided)

Tour du Mont Blanc Highlights (Guided)

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9 Days From

$2791

Tour du Mont Blanc Highlights (Guided)

9 Days Starting in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France and ending in Chamonix, France

Visiting: Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, Mont Blanc, Col de la Seigne, Courmayeur, Champex-Lac, Trient, Chamonix

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

1005

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 14

Physical rating:

Challenging

Tour operated in:

English , French
From: $2791

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Mont Blanc is one of the highest mountains in Europe (4,807m) and generous in its greatness, reaching into France, Italy and Switzerland. The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), which circumnavigates the massif, is also one of Europe’s greatest long-distance trails. This is a Tour du Mont Blanc, small group guided itinerary exploring many of the TMB greats. Starting in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and finishing in Chamonix, you use shortcut transfers in some spots so you can see as much of the trail as possible, over nine days. Stay in a mix of mountain huts and hotels, with luggage transfers

Highlights

  • Arrive in the lively mountain town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, famous for its thermal spa and Mont Blanc Tram.

  • Trek over ravines and past glacial lakes, ascending to Col du Bonhomme and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme.

  • Cross the border from France into Italy at Col de la Seigne, with views from the Val Veny balcony.

  • Walk along the crest of Mont de la Saxe to Tête de la Tronche for views of the Mont Blanc massif.

  • Cross Grand Col Ferret into Switzerland, with views of the Grand Combin massif.

  • Choose between the challenging Fenêtre d’Arpette or the scenic Alp Bovine Trail with views of the Trient Glacier.

  • Reach Refuge du Lac Blanc using fixed ladders and steps, then follow the Grand Balcon to Planpraz.

  • Take the Montenvers Railway to Mer de Glace and enjoy views from Aiguille du Midi.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival In Saint-Gervais-Les-Bains

Location: Saint-Gervais-les-Bains

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains

Meals Included: Breakfast

Arrive in the lively mountain town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, at the foot of Mont Blanc. It’s famous not only for being an outdoor hub with fabulous views, but also its thermal spa and Mont Blanc Tram which takes you up to the Eagles Nest (2,372m). In the evening, there’s a welcome meeting with your group and guide to prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 : Les Contamines – Les Mottets

Location: Mont Blanc

Accommodation Name: Refuge des Mottets (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s trek takes you over ravines, past glacial lakes and ascends over two cols, all within sight of the southernmost point of Mont Blanc. The day starts with a short transfer to Notre Dame de la Gorge church, where you begin the long ascent to Col du Bonhomme (2,329m) and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2,450m). Take a rest at Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme before continuing over Col des Fours (2,658m) following a final stretch to Refuge des Mottets, where you spend the night. Walking for the day: 6-7h, approx. 19km, ?1,621m ?993m

Day 3 : Refuge Des Mottets – Plan Chercroit

Location: Col de la Seigne

Accommodation Name: Rifugio Monte Bianco (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Begin the day by trekking up to Col de la Seigne, crossing the border from France into Italy. The route continues through fields, crossing Vallon de la Lée Blanche to reach Rifugio Elisabetta. After stopping here for a short break, continue onto Chercroit, following the wide track downhill before heading along the Val Veny balcony, offering wide-reaching views, to reach Chercroit. Walking for the day: 7-8h, approx. 19.5km, ?1,362m ?1,275m

Day 4 : Plan Chercroit – Courmayeur – Val Ferret

Location: Courmayeur

Accommodation Name: Rifugio Elena (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a gentle start to the day by taking the lift down from Plan Chercroit to Courmayeur before beginning the walk to Val Ferret. Follow the mountain path to Rifugio Bertone and along the crest of Mont de la Saxe to Tête de la Tronche. From here you get far-reaching views toward Col de la Seigne, Grand Col Ferret, and all along the south side of the Mont Blanc massif. The path continues further over bridges and brooks, passing Rifugio Walter Bonatti and eventually Chalet Val Ferret, which sits at the foot of Val Ferret, before continuing on to Rifugio Elena. Walking for the day: 7-8h, approx. 19.6km, ?1,450m ?620m

Day 5 : Val Ferret – La Fouly – Champex-Lac

Location: Champex-Lac

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Champex-Lac

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s trek takes you across Grand Col Ferret, and then onto the village of La Fouly in Switzerland. Take in the views over the Grand Combin massif in the east and the Italian side of Mont Blanc before taking a transfer to Champex-Lac.

Walking for the day: 7h, approx. 20km, ?852m ?1,280m

Day 6 : Champex-Lac – Trient – Le Tour

Location: Trient

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Le Tour (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This day of walking has the option of two routes which vary in difficulty. The Fenêtre d’Arpette is only undertaken in fair weather, as this challenging path reaches the highest point of the TMB, albeit offering views across the Trient Glacier and down into Vallée du Trient. The alternative route via the Alp Bovine Trail, 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). The day finishes in Trient, where you are transferred to your accommodation in Le Tour.

Walking for the day: 6-7h, approx. 16km, ?1,219m ?1,015m

Day 7 : Le Tour – Lac Blanc – La Flégère

Location: Chamonix

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in La Flégère

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 to La Flégère for the night.

Walking for the day: 4-5h, approx. 15.7km, ?1,319m ?718m

Day 8 : Mer De Glace – Aiguille Du Midi – Chamonix

Location: Chamonix

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Chamonix

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin the day by taking the famous Montenvers Railway (payable locally) up to Mer de Glace. From here, follow a path through the forest to the second cable car station of Aiguille du Midi (3,842m), which offers spectacular views from the summit. Conclude the day by taking the Aiguille du Midi cable car back down to Chamonix centre (payable locally).

Walking for the day: 2-3h, approx. 6km, ?397m ?7m

Day 9 : Departure

Location: Chamonix

Chamonix is a great base to spend a couple of days and we would recommend adding extra nights here.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Breakfast is included every day, and dinner is included on most days of the tour.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided in various locations including Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, Refuge des Mottets, Rifugio Monte Bianco, Rifugio Elena, Champex-Lac, Le Tour, La Flégère, and Chamonix.

  • Guided Tour

    The tour includes a guide to assist and lead the group throughout the journey.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are provided between certain locations, such as from La Fouly to Champex-Lac and from Trient to Le Tour.

  • Transport

    The tour includes a mix of transfers and scenic lifts, such as the Mont Blanc Tram and the Montenvers Railway, to enhance your trekking experience.

What's Not Included

  • Montenvers Railway and Aiguille du Midi Cable Car

    The Montenvers Railway and Aiguille du Midi cable car rides are not included and are payable locally.

  • Local Transport

    Some local transport options are payable on-site.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes a mix of transfers and scenic lifts, such as the Mont Blanc Tram and the Montenvers Railway, to enhance your trekking experience. Enjoy seamless transitions between hiking trails and accommodations, with some local transport options payable on-site.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations, from the lively mountain town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains to charming refuges like Refuge des Mottets and Rifugio Monte Bianco, culminating in the vibrant Chamonix. Enjoy comfortable stays with included meals, offering a blend of local hospitality and stunning alpine views.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of meals are included during the tour?

    Breakfast is included every day, and dinner is included on most days of the tour.

  • Are there any additional costs for transportation during the tour?

    Yes, the Montenvers Railway and Aiguille du Midi cable car rides are not included and are payable locally.

  • What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will experience a variety of accommodations, from the lively mountain town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains to charming refuges like Refuge des Mottets and Rifugio Monte Bianco, culminating in the vibrant Chamonix.

  • Is there a guide provided for the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a guide to assist and lead the group throughout the journey.

  • What are the options for the trek on Day 6?

    On Day 6, you can choose between the challenging Fenêtre d’Arpette, which is only undertaken in fair weather, or the more leisurely Alp Bovine Trail.

  • What is the starting point of the tour?

    The tour starts in the lively mountain town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France.

  • Where does the tour end?

    The tour concludes in Chamonix, France.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • 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)

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.