13 Day Tour du Mont Blanc: Hike Italy, France and Switzerland

Arrive in Chamonix

Today is yours to immerse yourself in the charm of picturesque Chamonix

Today is yours to immerse yourself in the charm of picturesque Chamonix. After an insightful orientation tour by our local expert, you'll be free to explore at your own pace—perhaps ascending via the spectacular “Aiguille du Midi” cable car for breathtaking views and a meal at Europe's highest restaurant. Or you might prefer strolling through Chamonix’s enchanting cobbled streets, savoring a coffee and freshly baked pastry at a delightful street-side café, or picking up those last-minute essentials for your adventure. Tonight, we'll gather for a relaxing dinner and an informative briefing from your trek leader, setting the scene for tomorrow's exciting journey. (B, D)

Our journey begins with a short scenic drive...

Our journey begins with a short scenic drive to Les Houches, ascending via cable car to Col de Voza, favored by Mont Blanc climbers. We cross a thrilling suspension bridge over the Bionnassay Glacier's meltwaters, then climb to Col de Tricot (2120m), offering breathtaking views. After lunch at the welcoming Miage refuge, we continue over another pass into the charming alpine village of Les Contamines. Overnight in a cozy local hotel surrounded by soaring mountains. (B, L, D)

We begin today with a short transfer to...

We begin today with a short transfer to the exquisite Baroque church, Notre Dame de la Gorge, dating back to 1699. From here, our path follows the ancient Roman route, the ‘Chemin Romain’, crossing a historic Roman stone bridge that arches gracefully over rushing waters. A gentle ascent leads us to La Balme, where you might pause for a refreshing drink at the cozy refuge before tackling the steeper climb ahead. We’ll steadily ascend to Col du Bonhomme (2329m), then higher still to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2408m), reaching our highest point today at Refugio de La Croix du Bonhomme (2443m). With the rewarding climb behind us, we descend into the picturesque village of Les Chapieux, where a charming hotel, nestled in alpine beauty and steeped in late 19th-century heritage, awaits our arrival. (B, L, D)

We begin with a short transfer to Ville...

We begin with a short transfer to Ville des Glaciers, ascending 750m to Col de la Seigne, the border between France and Italy. Below the pass, an information centre offers fascinating insights and a 3D massif map. Descending to Refugio Elisabetta, we'll enjoy lunch and authentic Italian coffee. Our guide points out iconic climbing routes like Peuterey Ridge. Depending on conditions, we'll either take a spectacular high route or stroll through lush valleys and glacial moraines toward Courmayeur, a charming mountain town offering breathtaking views of Monte Bianco. (B, L, D)

This morning we set out for the ancient...

This morning we set out for the ancient Roman town of Aosta, just an hour southeast of Courmayeur. During a private tour, we’ll uncover layers of history hidden beneath its lively streets. After a delicious lunch at a local osteria, we return to Courmayeur for a leisurely afternoon exploring this charming Italian counterpart to Chamonix. Wander cobblestone streets lined with stylish cafés, bars, and restaurants beneath Monte Bianco’s dramatic snow-capped massif. Today combines ancient history, local charm, and time to relax. Your guide is available with insider tips on where to go and what to taste. (B)

After a leisurely breakfast, we depart Courmayeur, crossing...

After a leisurely breakfast, we depart Courmayeur, crossing a lively stream before ascending steeply through enchanting larch forests—among the trail’s finest—to Rifugio Bertone (1989m), perfect for a cappuccino break. Weather permitting, we'll take the high route along the Mont de la Saxe ridge, famed for panoramic views of Monte Bianco’s Italian flank and the striking South Face of Grandes Jorasses. We cross airy summits of Tête Bernarda (2534m) and Tête de la Tronche (2584m) before descending via Refugio Bonatti, another cappuccino stop, to Val Ferret. An easier lower route is also available. Return transfer to Courmayeur. (B, L, D)

This morning we transfer to Val Ferret, from...

This morning we transfer to Val Ferret, from where we ascend to Grand Col Ferret, the scenic border between Italy and Switzerland. We pause along the way at Refugio Elena for morning coffee or tea, enjoying striking views towards Mont Dolent, the meeting point of Italy, France, and Switzerland. Descending to La Peule, we'll savour a picnic lunch featuring local cheeses, cold cuts, and fresh baguettes. We then continue through wildflower-filled meadows and alongside winding streams, arriving at the charming Swiss village of La Fouly. Tonight, we stay at the cosy Hotel Edelweiss, where a delicious dinner awaits. (B, L, D)

Exploring the Mont Blanc Massif on foot lets...

Exploring the Mont Blanc Massif on foot lets us wander serene trails winding through pine forests, vibrant wildflower fields, and majestic mountain passes, pausing along the way to marvel at charming alpine villages. Today exemplifies this perfectly, as we walk from La Fouly towards the picturesque village of Champex and its inviting mountain lake. Passing through historic hamlets like Praz de Fort and beautifully preserved Issert, we ascend gently above Champex, then stroll beside the lake before a final short climb to the delightful Hotel Splendide (1627m). Along this scenic route, admire traditional chalets and original grain stores lining narrow streets—and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear lake waters if weather permits. (B, L, D)

Today offers one of the most spectacular days...

Today offers one of the most spectacular days on the trek, crossing the high pass of Fenêtre d’Arpette (2665m). This stunning variant of the TMB rewards us with panoramic views of the Trient Glacier and the dramatic Plateau du Trient, crowned by the Aiguille du Tour (3544m). Though the terrain is rugged, it's non-technical and well worth the effort. In case of poor weather or group preference, we’ll take the easier Bovine route—13 km over 5 hours, with 757m ascent and 797m descent. From Col de la Forclaz, we transfer by vehicle to Argentière for the night. (B, L, D) Route choice depends on conditions and group suitability.

This morning, we transfer back to Col de...

This morning, we transfer back to Col de la Forclaz to begin our second-last major ascent of the TMB—an invigorating 900-meter climb to the Col de Balme (2200m), marking the border between Switzerland and France. As we descend towards the village of Le Tour, the full grandeur of the Mont Blanc range comes into view, with soaring peaks, sprawling glaciers, and the Chamonix Valley stretching out below. It’s a breathtaking moment, a true highlight of the journey. We then return to our accommodation in Argentière to enjoy a hearty local meal and a well-earned rest. (B, L, D)

From Argentière, we transfer to Col des Montets...

From Argentière, we transfer to Col des Montets and begin our final ascent via the scenic Cheserys lakes into the Aiguilles Rouges. Following the stunning Grand Balcon Sud trail, we enjoy sweeping views across the valley to the Argentiere Glacier and the striking Aiguille Verte (4122m). A detour to Lac Blanc (2352m) offers a postcard-perfect scene, where the Chamonix Needles often reflect in the lake’s still waters. After a relaxed lunch, we continue for 1.5 to 2 hours along this high route to the Planpraz cable car, which carries us down into Chamonix for the final evening of our journey. (B, L, D)

Return transfer this morning from Chamonix to Geneva airport

Return transfer this morning from Chamonix to Geneva airport. (B)