Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Circuit Hike | MBS
tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Circuit Hike | MBS tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Circuit Hike | MBS

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9 Days From

$1580

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

9 Days Starting and ending in Chamonix Valley, France

Visiting: Le Tour, Champex, La Fouly, Courmayeur, Col de la Seigne, Les Contamines, Les Houches, Chamonix

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

MBS

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

moderate to challenging

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active, Adventure Tours, Walking Hiking and Trekking

Interests:

Cultural

Activities:

Mountain Biking, Sightseeing

From: $1580

NB: Prices correct on 17-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Embark on an exhilarating journey with the Mont Blanc Circuit, a self-guided trek that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of France, Italy, and Switzerland. Experience the thrill of circumnavigating Mont Blanc, traversing high passes, and walking through three countries. Delight in the culinary specialties like Raclette and share stories with fellow hikers in charming gîtes and mountain refuges. This adventure includes 8 nights in mixed dormitory-style accommodations, with the option to upgrade to double rooms on select nights. Enjoy continental breakfasts and regional dinners, and benefit from luggage transfers and a comprehensive information pack. Starting and ending in the picturesque Chamonix Valley, this trek promises unforgettable alpine vistas and cultural encounters.

Highlights

  • Circumnavigation of Mont Blanc

  • Experiencing the exhilaration of trekking in the European Alps

  • Traversing high passes and walking through three countries

  • Enjoying the culinary specialties such as Raclette

  • Sharing stories with other hikers in the gîtes and mountain refuges

Itinerary

tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Circuit Hike | MBS | Route Map

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Day 1 : Arrive In Le Tour, Begin Walk To Trient Or Col De La Forclaz (6-7Hrs, +700M, -900M)

Location: Le Tour

Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel

Meals Included: 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 2 : Walk To Champex (6Hrs, +900M, -650M)

Location: 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 3 : To La Fouly (5-6Hrs, +500M, -600M)

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 4 : To Courmayeur (6-7Hrs, +900M, -900M)

Location: 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 5 : Walk To Elisabetta (5Hrs, +1560M,-460M)

Location: Courmayeur

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 walk 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, -460m)
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 6 : Cross The Col De La Seigne To France Enroute To Bonhomme (6Hrs, +1147M)

Location: Col de la Seigne

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, -1004m)

Day 7 : Walk To Les Contamines Via The Col De La Croix Du Bonhomme (3Hrs +40M)

Location: 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.
Walking: approx 13km, +40m/131ft, -1316m/4317ft
Note: Your main luggage will be waiting for you in your accommodation in Les Contamines.

Day 8 : Walk To Les Houches (5 Or 7Hrs, +633M Or 1318M)

Location: Les Houches

Accommodation Name: Mountain refuge or gîte hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.
Alternate route via the Col de Voza (4.5hrs, +633m, -646m)
(20km, +1318m/4324ft, -1478m/4849ft)

Day 9 : Walk To Flegere, Lift Descent To Les Praz, Walk To Chamonix, Trip Concludes (6-8Hrs, +1715M)

Location: Chamonix

Meals Included: Breakfast

This is a big day. Its possible to shorten the walk by descending the lift from Brevent instead of going all the way to Flegere. If you have the stamina the longer walk is well worth it.
Cross the L’Arve River to continue up to the “Grand Balcon Sud” offering seriously good balcony trail views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley. The trail takes you all the way to the top of Flegere Lift. From here you can descend to Les Praz then continue along the River to reach the centre of Chamonix. Your luggage will be awaiting collection at your pre tour hotel from around 4.00pm.

What's Included

  • Meals

    8 breakfasts and 8 dinners are included. Continental breakfasts usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea, and juices. Dinners will consist of 2 or 3 courses which include regional specialties.

  • Accommodation

    8 nights accommodation in mountain refuges or gîte hostels on a dormitory share basis. It is possible to upgrade to a double room on 5 out of 8 nights for an additional cost (only possible for 2 people traveling together).

  • 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. Your main luggage will meet you at the accommodation in the Contamines Valley.

  • Information Pack

    An information pack including a Navigational App and TMB hiking map (1:50,000) per group of 1-4 people is provided. The route is waymarked.

What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from the start/end point

    Travel to and from the start/end point of your hike is not included.

  • Lunches and Drinks

    Lunches and drinks are not included.

  • Personal Items

    Items of a personal nature are not included.

    On some nights, showers may cost extra (allow €2 per shower).

  • Luggage Storage

    Storage of luggage is not included.

    Please ensure your pre-tour hotel will store luggage before you book.

  • Tour Guide

    A tour guide is not included as this is a self-guided walking trip.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

  • Public Transport

    Public transport, including cable cars, is not included.

Accommodation

8 nights in mountain refuges/gîte-hostels. Accommodation is mixed dormitory style in mountain refuges or gîte hostels. There can be up to 40 people in one room in some refuges but less on most nights (around 10-12). Beds are often bunks but can also be one long platform with separate mattresses or one long continuous mattress. Blankets or duvets are provided and usually pillows. Bathrooms and toilets are shared. Whilst the double room option offers the privacy of your sleeping quarters, often the bathrooms will still be shared. Please note if you elect the double room option you may stay in different accommodation and therefore follow a slightly different route. This should be kept in mind when travelling with friends as you may be split up if you choose different styles of accommodation. The double room option is not available for single travellers. In alpine huts if there is a free bed it will be sold regardless of whether you as an individual have requested a single room. To avoid this likelihood we do not offer a single option in this category. Single travellers should take the dormitory option. Double room option is only available on select nights.

Grading

MODERATE to CHALLENGING – GRADE 4
The walking is moderate to challenging (4) grade with daily walks 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 walking components only – rest breaks are not included. There are some challenging stages during the walk 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 walkers 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.

Mode of Transport

Travel to and from the start/end point of your hike is included. Luggage transfer (max 15kgs - soft duffel style luggage only) except on days 6-8 where you will need to carry your overnight requirements. Your main luggage will meet you at the accommodation in the Contamines Valley.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the Mont Blanc Circuit tour?

    Accommodation is provided in mountain refuges or gîte hostels, typically in mixed dormitory style. Some rooms can accommodate up to 40 people, but most nights will have around 10-12 people. Beds are often bunks or one long platform with separate mattresses. Blankets or duvets and usually pillows are provided. Bathrooms and toilets are shared. There is an option to upgrade to a double room on 5 out of 8 nights for an additional cost, but this is only available for two people traveling together.

  • Are meals included in the Mont Blanc Circuit tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 8 breakfasts and 8 dinners. Continental breakfasts typically consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea, and juices. Dinners will be 2 or 3 courses featuring regional specialties. Drinks are not included.

  • Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfer is provided for a maximum of 15kgs 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.

  • Is this a guided tour?

    No, this is a self-guided walking trip. An information pack including a navigational app and TMB hiking map (1:50,000) per group of 1-4 people is provided.

  • What should I expect in terms of the difficulty level of the Mont Blanc Circuit tour?

    The tour is graded as moderate to challenging (Grade 4). Daily walks range from 5-7 hours, covering distances between 8 and 20km with maximum ascents of 1320 meters per day. The route includes steep uphills, descents, and sections that require care. A good to excellent level of fitness is required, and it is suitable for experienced walkers only. You should also be able to navigate in alpine regions using a map.

  • What happens if I choose the double room option?

    If you choose the double room option, you may stay in different accommodation and follow a slightly different route. This should be kept in mind if you are traveling with friends, as you may be split up if you choose different styles of accommodation. The double room option is not available for single travelers.

  • What are some of the highlights of the Mont Blanc Circuit tour?

    Some highlights include circumnavigation of Mont Blanc, experiencing the exhilaration of trekking in the European Alps, traversing high passes and walking through three countries (France, Italy, Switzerland), enjoying culinary specialties such as Raclette, and sharing stories with other hikers in the gîtes and mountain refuges.

  • What should I pack for the overnight requirements on days 6-8?

    You will need to pack your overnight requirements in your daypack for the next two nights starting from day 5. Your main luggage will be waiting for you in Les Contamines on the afternoon of day 7.

  • Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

    Yes, some additional costs include lunches and drinks, items of a personal nature (on some nights showers may cost extra, allow €2 per shower), storage of luggage, travel insurance, and public transport including cable cars.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

S. Ward(Washington, United States)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

8 Aug 2023

They took care of all of the details and we had the trip of our lives!

C. Weber(Cape Town, South Africa)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

18 Jul 2023

Overall excellent service in ensuring a wonderful experience.

R. Marks(Privett, United Kingdom)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

2 Aug 2022

UTracks were absolutely brilliant in supporting my daughter and I to complete the TMB trail in 9 days. They booked and sorted the bags between the refuges. The maps and information about each daily section gave me real confidence that we could do this self guided. Bags always appearing as planned. Just fantastic. Friendly support and very quick to respond to questions. Looking forward to planning the next adventure!

J. Hulme(United Kingdom)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

3 Oct 2023

It exceeded our expectations. Great communication. Good value. Well organised. Amazing trip all round.

William Wheeler(Armidale, NSW, Australia)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

3 Jul 2024

Awesome trek around Mt Blanc. Accomodation as expected; it's not a luxury tour, however friendly and certainly adequate. Mapping app mostly worked well although be prepared for heavy battery use. Pleased to have trekked clockwise to avoid being involved in a procession. More snow than expected and probably a tougher trek than expected. Magnificent scenery, good logistics and people.

S. Britton(Bristol, United Kingdom)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

2 Aug 2024

A great trip, challenging, fabulous views, stunning wildflowers.

M. Bridger(Australian Capital Territory)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

04 Oct 2018

Fabulous experience, well worth it!!

D. Keys(Waiuku)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

12 Oct 2018

I fully recommend the Tour du Mont Blanc as a spectacular walk in a stunning part of the world. UTracks booked our transport and accommodation for the trip and everything flowed seamlessly. Their instructions made it easy for us to guide ourselves around the track and have a fantastic experience.

S. Ward(Washington, United States)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

8 Aug 2023

Everything was great except the conditions at the two most remote refugios were subpar.

J. Maconachie(Freshwater, Australia)  

Mont Blanc Circuit Hike

30 Jul 2024

I broke my wrist at the end of the fourth day of TMB which is why I’m rating it as average. That’s not UTracks fault. UTracks were helpful while I was sorting out getting home and thankfully the overseas contact got my luggage to me. The app which we had was very useful when hiking. When prepping for the TMB UTracks was very helpful in helping me discover options if I didn’t want to walk each day of the hike.

Read all 20 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • 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.

  • 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.