Full Tour of Mont Blanc – 12-Day Self-Guided Circuit (Private Rooms) – France, Italy, Switzerland

Experience the complete Tour du Mont Blanc, a 12-day self-guided trek covering the entire 105-mile (170 km) classic circuit around Western Europe’s highest peak. This is the ultimate adventure for hikers who want to walk the full trail from start to finish, discovering every valley, alpine pass, and charming mountain village that makes this route world-famous.

Traverse France, Italy, and Switzerland, immersing yourself in each country’s distinctive alpine culture, cuisine, and landscapes. Starting in the picturesque Swiss town of Martigny, you’ll journey through iconic mountain destinations like Chamonix and Courmayeur, crossing dramatic passes and passing turquoise glacial lakes along the way.

Each day brings fresh perspectives of the Mont Blanc massif—from towering snow-capped peaks to rolling meadows and deep glacial valleys. Evenings are spent in welcoming alpine hotels and private mountain huts, where hearty regional meals and cozy rooms await. For those seeking the authentic, full-length Tour du Mont Blanc, this 12-day circuit delivers the complete experience—challenging, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Trip Highlights

Hike the entire 105-mile / 170 km Tour du Mont Blanc circuit—the classic full route
Traverse three alpine countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland
Take in panoramic views of glaciers, peaks, and flower-filled valleys
Stay in comfortable alpine hotels and private mountain huts each night
Navigate confidently with offline maps, GPS navigation, and 24/7 local support

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chamonix

Upon arriving in the charming town of Chamonix, you'll be welcomed to your comfortable 3* hotel. Take the opportunity to settle in, and at your convenience, collect your travel pack, which contains all the essential information to make your upcoming adventure memorable.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)
‍Accommodation: 3* Hotel
‍Meal: None

Day 2: Chamonix to Les Houches via Brévent

Embark on a spectacular journey as you take the Planpraz gondola to Planpraz. Hike to the Col du Brévent Pass, reaching the summit of Brévent Peak (2525 m - 8,282 feet). Marvel at the breathtaking views of Mt. Blanc and the sweeping glaciers. Descend to Les Houches, passing through Bellachat Hut and summiting Aiguillette des Houches along the way.

Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi.)
Ascent: 650 m - 2,132 feet
Descent: 1650 m - 5,413 feet
Hiking: 6 hrs
Lodging: 3* Hotel‍
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)

Day 3: Les Houches – Les Contamines Montjoie

After a transfer to Bellevue cable car, stand in awe at the foot of the standard route for climbing Mt. Blanc. Traverse the Bionnassay Glacier and cross a thrilling "Nepali hanging bridge." Ascend to Col de Tricot Pass, with a short break to admire the panoramic views of Contamines-Montjoie Valley. Descend to the charming village of Contamines-Montjoie, where you'll spend the night.

Distance: 11 km (7 mi.)
Ascent: 650 m - 2,132 feet
Descent: 1300 m - 4,265 feet
Hiking: 5 hrs.
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner‍
Transfer: 30 minutes

Day 4: Les Contamines-Montjoie - Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme Pass - Les Chapieux

Following a brief morning transfer to Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge (1210m) via the complimentary local shuttle (available during the high season), take a moment to explore the renowned baroque church, signaling the beginning of the Roman road—a historic trade route connecting mountain valleys. Embark on a gradual ascent to Col du Bonhomme Pass (2329m), showcasing a picturesque stretch along the southern end of the range and delineating the boundary between the Mt. Blanc Range and the Beaufortain Mountains. The climb persists to Col de la Croix-du-Bonhomme Pass (2433m), providing breathtaking vistas of Mt. Pourri (3779m). Descend through alpine pastures, culminating in Les Chapieux (1549m), before a private transfer to your accommodation in the quaint village of Bourg St Maurice.

Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi.)
Ascent: 1250 m - 4,101 feet
Descent: 950 m - 3,117 feet
Hiking: 6.5 hrs.
Accommodation: Hotel - 3 Star
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner‍
Transfer: 45 minutes

Day 5: Les Chapieux to Courmayeur

Transfer to La Ville des Glaciers and commence the day's hike from this picturesque location at 1800 meters (5906 feet). Ensure a stop at a local farm along the route to gain insights into the art of Beaufort cheese-making. Continue the ascent through scenic alpine pastures, reaching the majestic Col de la Seigne Pass (2516 meters or 8251 feet) at the Italian border. Revel in the awe-inspiring views of the rugged Mt. Blanc Range, where iconic peaks like Mt. Blanc de Courmayeur, Noire de Peuterey Spire, and the Grandes Jorasses seemingly beckon at a touchable distance. The descent guides you through Val Veny, leading to the base of the Miage Glacier with its serene lake and distinctive alpine flora. Conclude the day with a brief transfer to Courmayeur (1226 meters or 4022 feet), the capital of the Italian Alps.

Distance: 15 to 25 km (10 to 16 mi.)
Ascent: 750 to 1250 m - 2,461 to 4,101 feet
Descent: 850 to 1800 m - 2,789 to 5,906 feet
Hiking: 5 to 7 hrs.
Accommodation: 2* Hotel‍
Meals: Breakfast only
Transfer: 45 min

Day 6: Courmayeur to Bonatti Hut

Embark on one of the most enchanting segments of the journey. Stroll into Courmayeur, the focal point of the Italian Alps, for a brief exploration. Ascend to the Bertone Hut (2000 meters or 6562 feet) for an unparalleled vantage point, offering captivating views of the legendary Grandes Jorasses and an awe-inspiring panorama—undoubtedly one of the trip's most breathtaking moments! Proceed along the scenic balcony trail to the Bonatti Hut (2025 meters or 6640 feet), where you'll spend the night and be treated to one of the most unforgettable sunsets ever experienced.

Distance: 12.5 km (8 mi.)
Ascent: 1050 m - 3,445 feet
Descent: 250 m - 820 feet
Hiking: 5 hrs
Lodging: Mountain Hut‍
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)

Day 7: Bonatti to La Fouly

Enjoy a leisurely day at the midway point of your journey, providing an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. The trail gently descends to the Elena Hut (2061 meters or approximately 6762 feet), nestled in the upper reaches of Val Ferret, beneath the formidable Mt. Dolent (3823 meters or around 12,543 feet). From there, ascend and traverse the border from Italy into Switzerland, choosing between the Grand Col Ferret Pass (2537 meters or about 8320 feet) or the more rugged Petit Col Ferret Pass (2490 meters or roughly 8169 feet). Take a final glance back into Italy before commencing the descent through Switzerland's serene alpine meadows, culminating in a hike down to the quaint village of La Fouly (1600 meters or approximately 5249 feet).

Distance: 20.5 km (12.5 mi.)
Ascent: 900 m - 2,953 feet
Descent: 1250 m - 4,101 feet
Hiking: 6.5 hrs.
Lodging: Mountain Inn‍
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)

Day 8: La Fouly to Champex Lac

Savor a leisurely day, allowing ample time for relaxation by the enchanting Champex Lake. Begin with a gentle hike from La Fouly, gradually making your way to Praz le Fort (1151 meters or approximately 3776 feet). The scenic trail traces the Ferret River to the charming hamlet of Issert, followed by an enjoyable ascent through the forest, leading you to the picturesque Champex Lake (1477 meters or around 4846 feet).

Distance: 15.5 km (9.5 mi.)
Ascent: 450 m - 1,476 feet
Descent: 550 m - 1,804 feet
Hiking: 4 hrs.
Lodging: Mountain Inn‍
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)

Day 9: Champex Lac to Trient

Embark from Champex, initiating your hike through the Swiss mountain pastures and alpine meadows renowned for hosting cows that contribute to crafting some of the Alps' most celebrated cheeses! From Bovine, relish unparalleled vistas of the Rhône River Valley. Alternatively, for those seeking a more challenging adventure, consider the extended option. This route leads to the magnificent Fenêtre d'Arpette (2665 meters or approximately 8743 feet), a striking high-mountain notch near the Grands Glacier. Conclude the day in the village of Trient (1280 meters or around 4199 feet), where you'll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a guest house.

Distance: 14.5 to 15.5 km (9 to 9.5 mi.)
Ascent: 750 to 1200 m - 2,461 to 3,937 feet
Descent: 900 to 1350 m - 2,953 to 4,429 feet
Hiking: 5 to 8 hrs
Lodging: Mountain Inn‍
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)

Day 10: Trient to Argentière

Ascend from Trient, hiking up to the Col de Balme Pass (2191 meters or about 7192 feet) to traverse the French-Swiss border. Revel at the summit with sweeping views of Chamonix and the valley below, alongside a spectacular panorama featuring Mt. Blanc, the Mer de Glace (glacier), and the Argentière Glacier. Descend by foot or opt for the chairlift/gondola, traversing dirt roads and trails through meadows and pastures, ultimately reaching Le Tour (1453 meters or approximately 4764 feet). From there, indulge in a leisurely stroll leading you to Montroc (1370 meters or around 4495 feet) and Argentière.

Distance: 15 to 16.5 km (9 to 10 mi.)
Ascent: 900 to 1100 m - 2,953 to 3,609 feet
Descent: 1050 to 1150 m - 3,445 to 3,773 feet
Hiking: 5 to 6 hrs
Lodging: 3* Hotel‍
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Lunch not included)

Day 11: Argentière to Chamonix

Today's ascent through the Aiguilles Rouges, offers panoramic views of numerous glaciers and summits above Chamonix, with the Mont Blanc range visible just across the valley. Commencing from the Col des Montets Pass, traverse the balcony trail leading to the Cheserys Lakes, renowned for their pristine blue waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. Proceed to Lac Blanc, keeping an eye out for alpine ibex along the path, and continue towards La Flégère. Descend to the valley floor via a gondola in the hamlet of Les Praz, providing the option to either hike back through the Bois du Bouchet forest or take a bus back to Chamonix city.

Distance: 10 km, 6.5 miles
Ascent: 900 m - 2,953 feet
Descent: 550 m - 1,804 feet
Hiking: 6.5 hrs.
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast‍
Meals not included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 12: Au Revoir Chamonix

After an incredible and challenging journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Mont Blanc region, enjoy your last breakfast in Chamonix before bidding farewell to this alpine paradise. Reflect on the memories and experiences of the past eleven days as you prepare to continue your adventures or return home with a sense of accomplishment. Safe travels!

Last Breakfast before heading out

Additional Trip Info

11 nights of accommodation in a mix of comfortable 2–3-star hotels, guesthouses, and mountain inns

Combination of private hotel rooms (with ensuite bathrooms), mountain huts (private rooms with shared bathrooms), and inns (private or shared facilities)

Daily breakfast and most dinners

Breakfasts included for Days 2–12
Dinners included for Days 2–10, except Day 5 in Courmayeur
Dinner on Days 1, 5 & 11 (Courmayeur and Chamonix) are excluded to give you flexibility to enjoy local restaurants

Luggage transfers available (up to 33 lbs / 15 kg per person) — additional cost, please inquire

Scheduled transfers as outlined in the itinerary

Comprehensive GPS route guide and offline maps via our exclusive hiking app

Detailed roadbook, maps, and reservation vouchers for groups of 2–4 hikers

24/7 assistance hotline for on-trail support and peace of mind

Travel Insurance - We recommend Insuremytrip, or Global Rescue
Public transportation, cable cars, or additional rides not listed in the itinerary
‍Tourist tax, payable directly at accommodations if required
International flights to and from the trip starting point
‍Luggage transfers (available upon request for an additional fee)
‍Some meals — plan for approximately €10–15 per meal per person
Optional extra nights in the Chamonix Valley or Courmayeur (rest day or post-tour stay available on request)
‍Airport transfers between Geneva and Chamonix
- Shared shuttle: €60 per person (one way) / €120 per person (round trip)
- Private taxi: from approximately €300 one way