Highlights

Visit three different countries in one trip: France, Switzerland, and Italy

Breathtaking views, high alpine passes and rugged trails circling the highest mountain in the Alps, Mont Blanc

More comfortable accommodation than most other multi-day treks in the Alps

Iconic Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc is the most beautiful multi-day trek in the Alps for a good reason: while traversing three countries you circle the highest mountain of the Alps: Mont Blanc, which culminates at 4,808 meters above sea and is commonly known as the birthplace of alpinism!

We love the Tour du Mont Blanc and so will you. However, it is not for everybody. In addition to a lot of elevation gain over the high mountain passes, some sections of hiking trail are exposed and require sure-footedness. Additionally, the Alps are notorious for quick weather changes. It is not uncommon to encounter snowfall on the trail even in August!

This tour is feasible from mid-June to early October, otherwise the higher sections of hiking trail are likely covered in snow and mountain refuges may be closed.

Don’t miss your chance, places are limited!

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Planpraz Cable Car Station to Tour Montroc

Your adventure commences at the Planpraz cable car station, a convenient starting point accessible by foot from Chamonix center. The trail takes you along the Grand Balcon through alpine meadows and serene forests, showcasing the diverse natural beauty of the region. You pass by the Aiguille Rouges nature reserve and the Chésery mountain lakes. The initial stage covers less distance, allowing you to gradually adjust to the altitude and terrain.

Distance covered: 13 kilometers (about 8.1 miles)
Elevation gain: 500 meters (about 1,640 feet)  
Approximate hiking time: 5 Hours
Accommodation: Gite le Moulin

Day 2: Over the Col de Balme

On the second day of your Tour du Mont Blanc journey, you’ll leave Montroc and set out for the stunning Col de Balme, a high mountain pass that marks the border between France and Switzerland. This stage offers an opportunity for some excellent photographs amidst the grandeur of the Alps. After crossing into Switzerland, you’ll make your way back down to Trient, a charming Swiss village nestled in the Valais Alps, where you conclude the day’s hike.

Distance covered: 13 kilometers (about 8.1 miles)
Elevation gain: 900 meters (about 2,953 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 6 hours
Accommodation: Auberge Mont Blanc

Day 3: A peek into Switzerland

As you depart Trient, you’ll gradually ascend towards the Col de la Forclaz, and further through forests to reach the Bovine meadow. Here, you’ll walk amidst open meadows, where cows and sheep graze in the summer months, and be treated to stunning views of the Rhone Valley stretched out below, framed by the grandeur of the surrounding mountains. As you continue from the Bovine, you’ll enter a serene forested area around Champex-d’en-Haut. The cool shade of the trees and the gentle rustling of leaves create a soothing and tranquil atmosphere and lets you reflect on the highlights of the day before arriving at the Col de Champex where you conclude the stage.

Distance covered: 16 kilometers (about 9.9 miles)
Elevation gain: 900 meters (about 2,953 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 7 hours
Accommodation: Gîte Bon Abri

Day 4: Champex-Lac and the Val Ferret

As you start hiking, you’ll soon be treated to the serene and captivating sight of Lac de Champex. This pristine mountain lake nestled in the forested valle, sets the tone for the day ahead. Leaving Champex-Lac behind, you’ll descend to the valley of the Dranse river, as it meanders through the Val Ferret, creating a tranquil and soothing ambiance. This stage, while still offering its unique charm, is notably shorter and easier compared to some of the more challenging segments of the trek. This allows you to enjoy a more relaxed pace and fully immerse yourself in the serene countryside. Your day’s journey concludes in La Fouly, a cozy Swiss village that provides the ideal backdrop for a peaceful evening of relaxation after a fulfilling day of hiking.

Distance covered: 15 kilometers (about 9.3 miles)
Elevation gain: 600 meters (about 1,969 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 6 hours
Accommodation: Auberge des Glaciers

Day 5: Over the Grand Col Ferret

Starting in La Fouly, you’ll journey past the charming hamlet of Ferret and start the long climb ascent over the Grand Col Ferret.
This pass marks the border between Switzerland and Italy and the highest point of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Here, trekkers stand in awe of the breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, which dominates the skyline.
A steep descent leads us to the italian Val Ferret, where we reach the Rifugio Bonatti after a long day of hiking.
The hut is situated on a balcony opposite the Mont Blanc massif, offering trekkers a mesmerizing view of the iconic mountain.

Distance covered: 19 kilometers (about 11.8 miles)
Elevation gain: 1300 meters (about 4,265 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 9 hours
Accommodation: Rifugio Bonatti

Day 6: The day of Courmayeur

As you depart the rifugio, the trail follows the contours of the Mont de la Saxe, offering captivating views of the surrounding landscapes and the majestic peaks of the Mont Blanc range.
The path then descends, leading you down into the delightful town of Courmayeur, an Italian alpine resort known for its charming streets, vibrant atmosphere, and delectable cuisine.
Finally, a steep ascent leads you to Maison Vieille, a refuge perched high above the valley. Positioned strategically on the trail, it serves as an ideal place for trekkers to rest, share stories, and enjoy the breathtaking mountain surroundings.

Distance covered: 19 kilometers (about 12 miles)
Elevation gain: 1000 meters (about 3,281 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 8 hours
Accommodation: Rifugio Monte Bianco

Day 7: Past Lac Combal through the Val Veny

Departing from the rifugio, you follow the Mont Favre ridge line that offers trekkers spectacular panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif. Here, you pass the last few trees on the way down to the Veny valley before it leads you on a long and gradual climb to the Col de la Seigne.
This significant high mountain pass marks the border between Italy and France and is the second highest point along the entire Tour du Mont Blanc. After the Col de la Seigne, the trail leads you down to the Refuge des Mottets, a welcoming mountain hut that concludes the day’s journey.

Distance covered: 18 kilometers (about 11.2 miles)
Elevation gain: 1000 meters (about 3,281 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 8 hours
Accommodation: Refuge des Mottets

Day 8: Over the Col de la Croix de Bonhomme

The day starts with an easy downhill path to Les Chapieux, transitioning into a unique hiking experience. Notably, this stage stands out for its complete lack of forested areas, allowing trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the open alpine landscapes.
As you leave Les Chapieux, the trail takes a challenging turn, with a steep climb leading to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. This ascent is rewarded with panoramic views and an authentic sense of accomplishment.
The trail then descends into the picturesque La Balme pasture and finally after a long day on your feet you reach the modern refuge des Prés with its stunning view over the Montjoie valley.

Distance covered: 17 kilometers (about 10.6 miles)
Elevation gain: 1000 meters (about 3,281 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 8 hours
Accommodation:Refuge des Prés

Day 9: The day of Les Contamines

The ninth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc commences with a gentle descent, guiding you to the Pont Romain, a relic of ancient roman roads. Following this, you’ll reach Notre Dame de la Gorge, a picturesque chapel nestled along the trail, providing a tranquil and contemplative stop.
As you continue your journey, you’ll arrive at Les Contamines, a charming alpine commune where you may stop for coffee and intriguing french pastries.
The route then leads you on a gradual ascent, taking you back up to the Mont Truc to conclude the day. This grassy hilltop offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, including the impressive Mont Joly and Aiguille de Bionnassay.

Distance covered: 13 kilometers (about 8.1 miles)
Elevation gain: 600 meters (about 1,969 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 5 hours
Accommodation: Chalet du Truc or Chalets des Miages

Day 10: Final day over the Col de Tricot

Starting from the refuge, you pass the Chalets de Miage, a picturesque alpine hamlet that adds charm to the journey. As the trail continues,  a short but steep ascent towards the Col de Tricot brings you to the highest point of this day. There, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The descent from the Col de Tricot leads to a suspension bridge that spans the Torrent de Bionnassay, creating an exciting and memorable crossing.
As you continue, the trail takes you uphill to Bellevue, where you can catch your first glimpse of Chamonix, offering a sense of achievement and anticipation. A final downhill brings you to Les Houches, where the finish arch awaits at the Tourism Office.

Congratulations! You walked around Mont Blanc!
Distance covered: 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles)
Elevation gain: 700 meters (about 2,297 feet)
Approximate hiking time: 5 hours