The Tour du Mont Blanc is an iconic, multi-day trek that traverses the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. Spanning approximately 170 kilometers, this challenging yet rewarding hike requires more than 10,000 meters of elevation gain. The journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes featuring towering mountain peaks, vibrant wildflowers, lush meadows, and awe-inspiring vistas in every direction.
Having the TMB on my bucket list, I’m thrilled to have finally completed it. While physically demanding for me, the sense of accomplishment at the finish line made it all worthwhile.
Logistical concerns are minimal, as you’ll find ample food and lodging options throughout your journey. With French, Swiss, and Italian restaurants along the way, hunger was never a concern. When we embarked in early July, we encountered the European heat wave’s sweltering temperatures and dry conditions – a reminder to be prepared for any kind of weather.
Mont Blanc translates literally to ‘White Mountain’ due to the region’s extensive glaciers covering over 100 kilometers. While not as majestic as Mount Everest, this trek demands respect for unpredictable weather, lengthy hiking days, and, most importantly, preparation for the awe-inspiring views that await you. For more information on preparing for your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure, check out my blog post here.
TIP: When traveling overseas with a significant time change, consider arriving a few days prior to allow your body to adjust to the new environment before embarking on your hike.
Tour du Mont Blanc with G Adventures
As I embarked on my Tour du Mont Blanc with G Adventures, I was left with a lasting impression of the company’s ability to curate unique experiences. Their philosophy of immersing travelers in new cultures resonated deeply with me, and I don’t hesitate to recommend this trip to anyone seeking adventure. G Adventures specializes in crafting affordable, small-group tours that cater to diverse interests and destinations. Whether you’re itching to explore uncharted territories or simply looking for a fresh perspective, their expeditions are designed to take you on a thrilling journey around the world.
Transfer from Geneva & Nightly Bag Transfer
We used Chamonix All Year to arrange our transportation from Geneva to Chamoix, opting for a private car for the journey out and a shared transfer on our return to the airport. The day prior to our departure, we received a text with driver details, ensuring a seamless experience.As someone with multiple allergies – including celiac, dairy, egg, and others – I was concerned about accessing suitable food during the trek. Although the tour provided meals, I took precautions by arranging a bag transfer with G Adventures each night of the trek (excluding Day 6, which is inaccessible by vehicle). This allowed me to pack my own hiking meals, snacks, and oatmeal for safekeeping.The bag transfer also enabled me to carry essential supplies for my Type 1 diabetes, including extras – I plan to share more about this experience in a dedicated post later. In the meantime, I’ve been drawing inspiration from Kev Reynolds’ comprehensive guide, ‘The Tour of Mont Blanc: Complete Two-way Trekking Guide’, which has become my go-to resource for preparing for the Tour du Mont Blanc.
Tour du Mont Blanc – What we Ate
I had to be strategic with my food choices for the G Adventures Tour du Mont Blanc trek, given my array of allergies. Fortunately, breakfast and dinner were included at every refuge, allowing me to send ahead my dietary restrictions. Some refuges accommodated them, while others didn’t, so I’m glad I brought my own backup provisions. The meals provided were a delightful surprise – traditional French, Italian, and Swiss cuisine, often prepared by professional chefs. Our group thoroughly enjoyed the culinary experiences on this trek!Breakfast at the refuges was a typical spread, featuring bread, jam, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and of course, coffee. Dinner, on the other hand, was a multi-course extravaganza made with fresh ingredients. While my meals often differed from the others’, I have to admit that theirs looked incredibly appealing – perhaps a testament to the unpredictability of life! In Italy, I particularly enjoyed hearty minestrone and lentil soup, along with polenta. In fact, I even recreated the split pea lentil soup recipe in another blog post. Many dinners were served family-style, allowing me to take as much or little as I desired.Lunch and snacks during the trek were on my own dime, so I had to be resourceful. I could purchase lunch at a refuge along the way (with Rob’s expert recommendations), pick up a packed lunch from the night prior, or even stop by a grocery store in Chamonix or Courmayeur. To prepare for the trek, I stocked up on fresh fruits and vegetables at these stores.
Day 1 – Chamonix
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As I began my journey, I found myself in Chamonix- Mount-Blanc, the inaugural host of the Winter Olympics. This picturesque ski town is nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, enticing visitors with breathtaking views and modern lifts that invite exploration. After arriving from Geneva in the late afternoon, we settled into our hotel before meeting our G Adventures CEO, Rob, who would serve as both guide and Chief Experience Officer for our group. Our diverse group of travelers hailed from around the world, and it was delightful to get to know them over the course of the hike.
Rob provided a comprehensive overview of the trek, offering valuable insights into what we could expect. It was clear that he possessed unparalleled knowledge about the hike, leaving us feeling reassured and in good hands. Each day, Rob would furnish us with details about our route, including its length, difficulty level, and notable stops along the way – a thoughtful approach that helped us plan our days effectively.
Chamonix offers an array of outdoor supply stores and eateries, making it easy to stock up on last-minute essentials before embarking on our adventure.
Hotel Gustavia
Nestled at the heart of Chamonix, Hotel Gustavia served as our initial and final abode. This charming establishment seamlessly blends modern flair with vintage charm, its exterior boasting a classic aesthetic that complements its sophisticated interior design. Situated in a prime location between shopping villages and ski lifts, it’s an ideal haven for skiers during the peak winter season and hikers embarking on trekking adventures during the spring and summer months.
Day 2 – Chamonix to Les Contamines-Montjoie
After fueling up with breakfast at Hotel Gustavia, we embarked on a 24km, 8.5 hour hike, commencing our journey from Les Houches via cable car to Bellevue. The panoramic views from the aerial lift were nothing short of breathtaking, offering vistas of the Chamonix Valley and Mont Blanc Range. This inaugural day of hiking proved arduous, featuring approximately seven ascents and descents that tested my resolve. As I navigated the terrain, I felt a sense of accomplishment as I mentally prepared for the challenges ahead. The trail was bustling on our first day, with numerous hikers converging at the starting point and dispersing throughout the day, whereas subsequent days saw more scattered groups on the trails. Reflecting on this grueling yet invigorating experience, I realized the importance of planning my future hikes in France with a reliable backpacking guide.
Refuge Nant Borrant
The Refuge Nant Borrant was an unforgettable experience that defied expectations. This rustic retreat is a true definition of a hostel, yet it offers a level of comfort that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re stopping by for a meal or a break from your hike, this enchanting spot is well worth the visit. The views alone make it a worthwhile detour, especially after a long and arduous day of hiking. Despite its unconventional nature, the Refuge Nant Borrant was one of the most pleasant places I’ve had the pleasure to stay.
Day 3 – Les Contamines-Montjoie to Les Chapieux
The trek begins with a challenging 4-hour ascent, marked by crystal-clear pathways and an abundance of visual treats. In contrast to the initial day’s climb, this steep incline yields breathtaking vistas along the way. The experience is undeniably more exhilarating when scenic views are aplenty. Initially, my knee protested the grueling start, but once I found my stride, the discomfort subsided somewhat. Given the scorching temperatures, hydration becomes paramount, with water intake being a top priority. One notable aspect: cell phone reception is scarce for most of this day.
Auberge de la Nova
Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of hiking, Auberge de la Nova offers an idyllic retreat in the picturesque village of Les Chapieux, mere minutes from the Italian border. With a rich history dating back to 1856, this quaint refuge has been welcoming trekkers for generations. Here, one can unwind, indulge in hearty meals, and recharge before tackling the remainder of the journey. The intimate atmosphere and serene surroundings provide the perfect haven to decompress and refuel.
Day 4 – Les Chapieux to Courmayeur
As we embarked on the bus ride to the trailhead, little did we know that today would be a breeze – literally and figuratively. With only 23 kilometers of hiking ahead of us, we were expecting an easy day compared to the grueling ascents of the previous days. The mild ascent and descent allowed for a refreshing change of pace, but by the end of our five-hour trek, my feet had taken a beating from the accumulated mileage. As we caught glimpses of Mont Blanc in the distance, we couldn’t help but be awestruck by its grandeur – and the howling winds at the summit only added to its mystique. It’s worth noting that cell service was hit-or-miss throughout the day, making it a welcome respite from the constant stream of notifications.
Hotel Cristallo
As we reached the summit, surrounded by breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, we finally savored the authentic Italian experience that had been our treasured reward throughout this arduous journey. The charming town itself was a treasure trove of genuine Italian cuisine, every bite a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the hotel’s architectural essence was infused with the elegant lines of Art Nouveau, its design reflecting the country’s storied past and the essence of true Italian hospitality.
Day 5 – Rest Day in Courmayeur
After a rejuvenating day in Courmayeur, I embarked on a mission to restock for the next leg of my hike. A visit to the local market yielded a bounty of fresh produce, including fruit and vegetables to sustain me for the remainder of my journey. To start the day off right, we stopped by Cafè Relais de l’Ange, where I indulged in a rich cup of coffee paired with soymilk – a rare treat on the trail! Additionally, I was pleased to discover that Courmayeur offers reliable Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the town, allowing me to stay connected and plan my route.
Pré Saint Didier Thermal Bath
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We opted for an optional activity with G Adventures on our rest day – a decision that was met with unanimous enthusiasm from the entire group. The thermal bath at Pré Saint Didier proved to be the perfect antidote to the physical demands of our trek, allowing us to recharge and pamper our weary feet. Situated in the serene Aosta Valley of Northern Italy, Pre-Saint-Didier’s natural hot springs emit a consistent temperature of approximately 37 degrees Celsius throughout the year, emanating from the mountain itself. I’d also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Brendan Williams for joining me on this adventure and capturing the memories through his lens.
My Tour du Mont Blanc Vlog
For a clearer view, simply click the link provided to access the content directly on our YouTube channel or watch it below.
Rifugio Bonatti
As we arrived at Rifugio Bonatti, we were blown away by the exceptional quality of our accommodations. But what truly stole the show was the breathtaking panorama that unfolded before us when we reached the top. The Italian Val Ferret valley lay stretched out like a canvas of natural beauty, with the rugged mountains serving as the perfect backdrop. In reality, photos can’t even begin to capture the majesty of this view – you have to see it for yourself! Meanwhile, our cozy little hut, crafted from stone and wood, felt like a charming retreat nestled among the peaks. We couldn’t help but feel grateful to be there!
Day 7 – Val Ferret to La Fouly
Embarking on an arduous 20km hike, our group faced a grueling six-hour trek that tested our endurance. The journey’s most daunting stretch was a particularly challenging hour-and-a-half ascent up Grand Col Ferrett, which demanded every ounce of energy and perseverance we could muster. The scorching heat only added to the physical and mental strain, making it an even more formidable undertaking.
Auberge des Glaciers Fouly
As I stepped into Auberge des Glaciers Fouly, the warmth and hospitality of this Swiss retreat enveloped me, a perfect respite from the stunning natural beauty that surrounded it. The inn’s design, tailored to outdoor enthusiasts and hikers on the trail, added to its cozy charm. The rustic log cabin exterior gave way to rooms that felt like a fun, rustic cabin experience.
Day 8 – La Fouly To Trient
The adventure began with a leisurely 16-kilometer trek that took around five hours to complete. While the initial stretch was relatively straightforward, things took a dramatic turn about halfway through when the terrain transformed into a steep and challenging climb. The scenery, however, remained stunning throughout, with open fields ablaze with vibrant wildflowers and picturesque cow-filled meadows. As we entered the denser forest towards the end of our ascent, fatigue began to set in, but the promise of nearing the finish line made it all bearable.
La Grande Ourse
As our hiking adventure drew to a close, we found ourselves at La Grande Ourse, situated at the base of two majestic glaciers. This erstwhile hotel and youth camp has evolved into The Great Bear, welcoming weary hikers like myself with its warm hospitality. Although it’s primarily designed for those embarking on multi-day treks, La Grande Ourse is also an excellent choice for families or travelers seeking a relaxing stay. Its accommodating nature makes it an ideal stopping point, regardless of your reason for visiting.
Day 9 – Trient To Chamonix
The final day of hiking on our Tour du Mont Blanc journey proved just as grueling as the first, with a steep and relentless ascent that tested every muscle I had left. By this point, my body was screaming in protest, and my feet felt like they were made of lead. Yet, I refused to give up, drawing on every last ounce of energy to push forward. The Col de Balme loomed ahead, and as we converged with other hikers making the same journey, it was a relief to finally reach our destination, albeit exhausted. The sense of accomplishment that came with completing this trek was palpable, tempered only by the realization that it was more mentally demanding than I had anticipated. The constant need to monitor my blood sugar levels and perform frequent checks added an extra layer of complexity, especially in the sweltering summer heat. Despite the challenges, this experience left me feeling exhilarated and eager for the next adventure. G Adventures offers a range of small group trips around the world, leaving me pondering where to go next. Ultimately, it’s essential to respect the unwritten rules of hiking to ensure a memorable experience for all involved.