Guided - Tour du Mont Blanc – 9 days (Huts) – Italy, Switzerland, France

On this Guided Group Trip, you will hike around the stunning Mt. Blanc Range, hiking as close as possible to this legendary alpine giant without actually climbing. Every day, enjoy so many new discoveries as you explore the different sides, cultures, and landscapes of the range: first through France, and then Italy and Switzerland. The well-marked trails and circuits are trade and communications that have been used, in some cases, since Antiquity. This is hands down one of the world’s major and most classic multi-day mountain hikes!

Highlights:

Experience the most renowned multi-day mountain hike in the Alps—an essential adventure for every hiking enthusiast!

Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Enjoy maximum comfort with your luggage transported separately by vehicle.

You’ll stay in mountain huts set in stunning locations

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Overview: 4 to 5 hours of hiking per day and/or 1,950 - 2,600ft (600 to 800 meters) of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 9 miles (15 km).

Duration : 9 days
Luggage transfers : Included you only carry your day pack
Lodging : You'll stay in a variety of mountain huts and inns.
Guide: French, English speaking, mountain leader (UIMLA certified)

‍Group : From 4 to 12 people

Arrival/ Departure: Nearest Geneva Airport

Group Guided Departures:

June 19- 27, 2025
July 10– 18, 2025
July 31 – 8 August 2025
August 14 – 22, 2025
September 11 – 19, 2025

Private Departures: Can be arranged on request

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to the Chamonix Valley

Day 1: Arrival in St. Gervais-les-Bains

Welcome to St. Gervais-les-Bains, a picturesque town steeped in history and known as the gateway to the stunning Chamonix Valley. This charming town, with its Belle Époque architecture and relaxing thermal baths, is the perfect place to ease into your journey. Take time to explore the cobbled streets, sample local Savoyard cuisine, or simply relax and soak in the alpine ambiance.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel stay in St. Gervais-les-Bains - 3 star Hotel

Day 2: Chamonix - La Flégère - Lac Chéserys & Lac Blanc - Argentière

Begin your day with an 8:30 AM meet-up with your guide before a taxi transfer to Les Praz de Chamonix. From there, a lift whisks you up to La Flégère, where your adventure truly begins. Set off along the renowned balcony trail, offering breathtaking panoramas of glaciers and majestic peaks across the valley.

Today’s highlights include a visit to the iconic Lac Blanc (2,352 m / 7,716 ft) and the peaceful Chéserys Lakes, celebrated for their mirror-like reflections of the surrounding alpine giants. Capture unforgettable photos and savor the serene atmosphere of these high-altitude gems.

Afterward, descend through lush forest trails to Col des Montets, where a transfer awaits to take you to Le Tour for the night.

Elevation Gain: 400-550 m (1,312-1,805 ft)
Elevation Loss: 950-1,100 m (3,117-3,609 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 5.5 hours
Distance: 9 km (5.6 mi)

Accommodation: Mountain hut in Le Tour
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Argentière - Balme Pass - Trient

Today’s adventure begins with a steady ascent through a tranquil forest path, eventually opening up to a gentler climb along the scenic Frettes ridges. Upon reaching Aiguillette des Posettes (2,201 m / 7,221 ft), you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, its towering glaciers, and the rugged alpine landscape.

Continue your journey with a descent toward Posettes Pass (1,997 m / 6,552 ft), followed by a final ascent to the day’s highlight: the Plan des Reines and the Balme Pass (2,191 m / 7,188 ft). From this vantage point, take in sweeping vistas that stretch over the Chamonix Valley, Mont Blanc, the impressive Mer de Glace, and the Glacier d’Argentière.

The day concludes with a descent into the picturesque village of Trient (1,300 m / 4,265 ft), where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s achievements.

Elevation Gain: 1,000 m (3,280 ft)
Elevation Loss: 1,200 m (3,937 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 6.5 hours
Distance: 18 km (11 mi)

Accommodation: Mountain hut in Trient
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Trient - Col de la Forclaz - Bovine - Arpette

Start your day with an invigorating ascent to La Forclaz pass, a historical route once traversed by traders and travelers. From here, continue your trek through the famed Bovine mountain pastures (1,987 m / 6,520 ft), where sweeping views of the Rhône Valley and the verdant Swiss Valais stretch out before you.

As you wander through these picturesque pastures, you’ll encounter grazing Swiss cows responsible for producing some of the finest alpine cheeses, adding a touch of local flavor to your journey. The Bovine route is one of the most scenic segments, offering a true taste of the Swiss Alps.

Elevation Gain: 900 m (2,953 ft)
Elevation Loss: 750 m (2,460 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
Distance: 13-16 km (8-10 mi)

Accommodation: Mountain hut nestled in the alpine landscape
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Arpette - Ferret - Grand Col Ferret - Arnuva - Bonatti Hut

Your day begins with a transfer to the quaint Swiss hamlet of Ferret (1,700 m / 5,578 ft). From here, start your ascent through the picturesque Ferret Valley, moving through lush alpine pastures to reach La Peule (2,071 m / 6,795 ft). As you climb, take in the serene beauty of the valley and the towering peaks that guide your way to the renowned Ferret Pass (2,537 m / 8,323 ft) at the Swiss-Italian border.

From the pass, be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Grandes Jorasses and the rugged Dolent mountain, standing tall against the horizon. Begin your descent to the Elena hut (2,061 m / 6,762 ft), with Mont Dolent (3,820 m / 12,533 ft) providing an impressive backdrop.

Continue your journey through Arnuva and along a stunning balcony trail to the Bonatti hut (2,025 m / 6,644 ft). Here, as evening falls, enjoy one of the most unforgettable moments of the day—a spectacular sunset over the Italian Alps.

Elevation Gain: 1,250 m (4,101 ft)
Elevation Loss: 800 m (2,625 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 6.5 hours
Distance: 19 km (11.8 mi)

Accommodation: Bonatti Mountain Hut
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Bonatti Hut - Bertone Hut - Courmayeur - Col Chécrouit

Today’s trek begins with a scenic traverse to the Bertone hut (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), where you’ll enjoy one of the most breathtaking views on the Mont Blanc tour. Take a moment to admire the imposing Grandes Jorasses and the dramatic landscapes surrounding you.

From Bertone hut, descend towards the charming alpine town of Courmayeur. You’ll have some time to explore the town’s quaint streets, savor local Italian flavors, and experience the vibrant mountain culture.

In the afternoon, a ski lift takes you up to Col Chécrouit for an overnight stay in the mountain hut. During June or September, if the Dolonne gondola is unavailable, an alternate route includes a bus transfer from Courmayeur to Zerotta or Purtud, followed by a forested trail to Col Chécrouit. (This option adds 200 m of ascent and 800 m of distance.)

Elevation Gain: 650 m (2,132 ft)
Elevation Loss: 1,300 m (4,265 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours
Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi)

Accommodation: Mountain hut at Col Chécrouit
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Col Chécrouit - Col de la Seigne - Ville des Glaciers - Les Chapieux

Today’s journey begins with a hike through lush alpine meadows, offering a peaceful start to the day as you make your way towards the Aiguille des Glaciers. Your ascent brings you to the Col de la Seigne (2,516 m / 8,255 ft), a historic pass that marks the border between Italy and France.

At the top, be rewarded with panoramic views of legendary peaks, including Mont-Blanc de Courmayeur, Noire de Peutrey, and the Grandes Jorasses—a breathtaking showcase of the region’s alpine grandeur.

Descend through idyllic meadows to the quaint hamlet of Les Chapieux, where a short transfer will take you to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

Elevation Gain: 900 m (2,953 ft)
Elevation Loss: 750 m (2,460 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 5.5 hours
Distance: 18.5 km (11.5 mi)

Accommodation: Mountain hut near Les Chapieux
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Les Chapieux - Col du Bonhomme - Les Contamines-Montjoies

Begin your day in the serene hamlet of Les Chapieux (1,549 m / 5,082 ft) and set out across lush alpine pastures toward the Croix-du-Bonhomme pass (2,433 m / 7,982 ft). As you reach the pass, take in magnificent views of Mont Pourri (3,779 m / 12,398 ft) and the surrounding landscape. This point also marks the natural divide between the Mont Blanc range and the Beaufortain mountains.

Your descent follows a historic path via the Bonhomme pass (2,329 m / 7,641 ft) and continues along a well-worn Roman trail once used by peddlers journeying between alpine valleys. The day’s trek concludes at the picturesque Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge, a location steeped in tradition and history.

Elevation Gain: 950 m (3,117 ft)
Elevation Loss: 1,300 m (4,265 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 6.5 hours

Accommodation: Mountain hut near Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Miage Chalets to Bellevue and Return to Chamonix

On the final day of your trek, embark on a scenic hike around Truc mountain (1,811 m / 5,942 ft), leading you to the charming chalets of Miage (1,559 m / 5,115 ft). Take in the rustic alpine beauty before tackling a steeper ascent to the Tricot Pass (2,120 m / 6,955 ft), where panoramic views of Val Montjoie await.

After a well-deserved break, continue on a traverse beneath the impressive Bionnassay Glacier, making your way to Bellevue (1,780 m / 5,840 ft). Here, a cable car will whisk you down to Les Houches, followed by a short shuttle transfer back to Chamonix, where your unforgettable Tour du Mont Blanc journey concludes.

Elevation Gain: 1,250 m (4,101 ft)
Elevation Loss: 600 m (1,968 ft)
Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours
Distance: 11 km (6.8 mi)

Accommodation: None (can be booked on request)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Important Notes:
Hiking times are estimates and may vary due to factors like weather and terrain conditions. Transfer times may also fluctuate based on road or traffic conditions. For safety and optimal enjoyment, the program may be adjusted as necessary due to weather, local regulations, or other factors.

Additional Trip Information:

Our Team
Your trip will be guided by a UIMLA-certified mountain leader, fluent in both French and English, with expertise in the Tour du Mont Blanc. For groups ranging from 4 to 12 participants, your guide will share their deep knowledge of the region’s trails. While your guide speaks English, don’t be surprised if you catch a touch of French charm in their words!

Transfers
The following transfers are included in your tour:

Day 2: Private transfer from St Gervais les Bains-Le Fayet to Les Praz-de-Chamonix, cable car from Les Praz-de-Chamonix to La Flégère, and a local bus transfer from Col des Montets to Le Tour.
Day 5: Private transfer from Arpette to La Fouly/Ferret.
Day 6: Lift from Courmayeur to Dolonne (or local bus from Courmayeur to the Val Veny valley).
Day 7: Local bus transfer from La Ville des Glaciers to Les Chapieux.
Day 9: Cable car from Bellevue to Les Houches, followed by a local bus transfer to Chamonix.

Lodging

On Day 1, you'll stay in a cozy 2-star hotel in St Gervais les Bains-Le Fayet, sharing a twin room with private bathroom facilities.
From Day 2 to Day 8, you'll stay in a variety of mountain huts and inns. These accommodations typically feature mixed dormitories with bunk beds (6 to 20 beds per room) and shared bathrooms. Staying at altitude lets you experience the Tour du Mont Blanc’s authentic route while enjoying stunning mountain views.
We recommend bringing a lightweight sleeping bag liner for added hygiene and comfort, especially in busy summer months.

Meals

Dinners:

In hotels, dinners typically consist of a set three-course meal, including a starter, main course, and dessert. Your first dinner in St Gervais les Bains-Le Fayet is not included, giving you the freedom to explore and dine in town.
In mountain huts and inns, dinners are communal experiences where you share meals with fellow hikers. These meals are a highlight of the day, offering hearty, home-cooked dishes like soup, a main course (often meat-based with carbohydrates such as pasta or rice), followed by cheese and dessert. Alcoholic beverages, such as beer or wine, can be purchased at an additional cost.

Breakfasts:

In hotels, breakfast is a diverse buffet featuring pastries, fresh bread, homemade jams, fruits, and cereals. Savory options like bread, cheese, ham, and eggs are also available.
In mountain inns or huts, breakfasts are simpler, typically consisting of bread, butter, jam, coffee, tea, and orange juice. We recommend bringing extra snacks, such as cereal bars or chocolate, for additional energy.

Lunches:
Packed lunches will either be prepared by your guide or the accommodation. These balanced and nutritious meals provide the energy needed for the day’s hiking, while also offering a taste of local flavors. Sharing these picnics with fellow hikers is a moment of camaraderie and connection.
We are committed to:

Including regional products sourced from local producers whenever possible.
Using quality ingredients, incorporating organic foods when feasible.
Reducing packaging, particularly plastic, and ensuring any remaining waste is recycled.

If you have specific dietary requirements, please inform us before departure through your personal profile. Additionally, remind your guide of any dietary needs during your initial briefing.

Drinks:
Beverages (excluding water) are not included. Please settle any drink tabs on-site before your departure to avoid additional charges.

Luggage Transfer
Your luggage will be transferred between accommodations by vehicle, and you’ll have access to it every evening, except on Day 5 at Bonatti (due to no road access). Each participant is allowed one soft bag weighing up to 15 kg, excluding food items.

Access
Your trip begins in St Gervais les Bains le Fayet and ends in Chamonix. The nearest airport is Geneva International Airport.
If you are flying into Geneva, we recommend using an airport transfer service to reach the Chamonix Valley. We can assist with booking this transfer.

The transfer from Geneva to Chamonix is not included, allowing you flexibility with your arrival and departure times. Transfers are available day or night depending on your flight schedule.

Additional Trip Info

Trekking Leader:

A French and English-speaking trekking leader (UIMLA certified) from Day 2 to Day 7, guiding groups of 4 to 12 participants.

Accommodations:

You'll stay in a variety of mountain huts and inns.
Dormitory-style accommodations - typically feature mixed dormitories with bunk beds (6 to 20 beds per room) and shared bathrooms.

Meals:

8 breakfasts, 7 dinners (excluding dinner on Day 1 in Le Fayet), and 8 picnic lunches.
Energetic snacks provided for the entire week
Welcome drink included

Logistics:

Luggage transfers each night, except on Day 5 at Bonatti Hut (no road access).
Cable cars, gondolas, or chairlift transfers as outlined in the itinerary.

‍Transportation: Arrangements to and from Geneva or the initial meeting point at the trip's commencement. (can be added on request)‍
Meals: Dinner on the first day in Chamonix & last night in Le Fayet‍
Expenses: Personal expenses and drinks are not covered.‍
Insurance: Coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.‍
Exclusions: Anything not explicitly mentioned in the "included in the price" list is not covered.