Everything You Need to Know About Tour du Mont Blanc
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of Europe’s most iconic hiking trails. Crossing through three countries – France, Italy and Switzerland – the circular route is a bucket list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. While best known as a hiking destination, it also winds its way through some of the best ski resorts in the Alps, which the team here at Alpine Fleet can help you visit with our leading private and shared transfers.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about a Tour du Mont Blanc hike.
What is the Tour du Mont Blanc?
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 105 mile (170km) circular hiking trail that loops around the Mont Blanc Massif – Western Europe’s highest mountain. It passes through France, Italy and Switzerland, offering an unforgettable mix of dramatic alpine views, charming mountain villages and rich cultural experiences.
The route was first completed in the late 18th century by pioneers exploring the Mont Blanc area. Over time, it has evolved into a mountaineering challenge and is one of the world’s most popular trekking trails.
Where is Tour du Mont Blanc?
Hiking Tour du Mont Blanc is located in the heart of the Alps and will take you through three countries and across countless mountain towns. It is located near some of the region’s most popular skiing resorts, including Chamonix in France.
Often referred to as the gateway to the Tour du Mont Blanc, this legendary alpine town is a major ski hub. The full circuit spans roughly 105 miles, or 170km, and typically takes eleven days to complete. The experience offers its own blend of landscape and challenge.
Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc
Let’s take a closer look at the eleven-stage route of the Tour du Mont Blanc hike.
Stage one: Les Houches to Les Contamines
Begin by taking a scenic cable car ride to the starting point of Les Houches, where you can enjoy stunning views of Mont Blanc, the Chamonix Aiguilles, the Aiguilles Rouges and the Chaine des Aravis. Then, ascend through pine forests that take you past the Bionnassay Glacier and the iconic Col de Voza before ending in Les Contamines. It’s a tough but scenic start to the hike.
Stage two: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux
One of the longest and demanding days, you’ll head over the Col du Bonhomme, giving you views of the Vanoise National Park. As you begin the descent, you’ll head into Les Chapux, a small but welcoming hamlet.
Stage three: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Monte Bianco
Day three is your entry into Italy, with a climb up to the Col de la Seigne, which offers sweeping views of the Mont Blanc Massif. You’ll descend through the Val Veny and stay at Rifugio Monte Bianco, a well-located and hospitable Italian destination.
Stage four: Rifugio Monte Bianco to Courmayeur
A shorter but steep stage that descends into the lively Italian area of Courmayeur. This is the perfect place to enjoy a day of rest, indulge in delicious Italian cuisine and soak up the views of Mont Blanc from a different angle. It is also the perfect place to take in Grandes Jorasses, Mont Dolent and the Grand Combin.
Stage five: Courmayeur to Refugio Walter Bonatti
As you leave Courmayeur behind, you’ll begin to climb back into high alpine territory. This stage features breathtaking views over Val Ferret, finishing at the remote and beautifully located Refugio Walter Bonatti.
Stage six: Refugio Walter Bonatti to La Fouly
Cross the Grand Col Ferret and enter Switzerland. This is one of the most scenic and satisfying days of the trek, and you will descend through meadows as you head into the sleepy village of La Fouly – offering the perfect chance to recharge.
Stage seven: La Fouly to Champex
This stage is relatively gentle, and you will wind through Swiss forests and alpine pastures. You can even go for a dip in Lac de Champex as you leave the rugged peaks behind you.
Stage eight: Champex to Trient
You have two choices today, the classic Bovine route, which is easier and passes through flower-filled meadows and forests, or the more challenging Fenetre d’Arpette, a high pass with unforgettable views.
Both descend into Trient, a tiny Swiss village near the French border.
Stage nine: Trient to Tre-Le-Champ
Re-entering France, you’ll climb the Col de Balme, where you’ll see Mont Blanc from another angle. From here, descend through alpine meadows into Tre-Le-Champ, a small hamlet close to Chamonix.
Stage ten: Tre-Le-Champ to La Flegere
Today’s route includes a steep ascent up to Lac Blanc, one of the most photogenic spots on the whole trail. You’ll follow high balcony paths with dramatic views of the Chamonix valley.
Stage eleven: La Flegere to Les Houches
The final stage descends back into Les Houches. It’s now time for reflection as you hike past alpine farms and through forested paths, with Mont Blanc now towering over you. Celebrate the end of your adventure with a local meal in Chamonix.
Chamonix is perhaps the best ski resort that is close to the Tour du Mont Blanc route, and at Alpine Fleet, we can help you get there.
Geneva Airport is the best airport to fly into, and we offer fast, reliable and comfortable transfers that take you directly there or to other nearby resorts. You can choose between private and shared options, but all come with flexible timings to suit your flight, modern vehicles and no need to worry about the hassle of having to navigate public transport or tricky mountain roads in a hire car.
The Tour du Mont Blanc hike is a memorable experience across the heart of the Alps, providing varied terrain, ever-changing views and a rich blend of cultures. It really is a dream for any outdoor lover. If you’re visiting Chamonix, embarking on this hike is well worth considering. To find out more about our private and shared transfers, contact Alpine Fleet today.
