Tour du Mont Blanc in mountain huts

A legendary alpine adventure around Mont Blanc- winding trails through lush valleys and dramatic glacial panoramas framed by the highest peaks in the Alps, the Tour du Mont Blanc is truly a trek like no other.


Circumventing Mont Blanc is a journey into an extraordinary world- the glaciated high mountain realm within arms reach. From the Chamonix Valley to Courmayeur, from the rugged Fenetre d'Arpette to the wilds of Val Ferret, the trail winds its way across alpine meadows and glaciers, up and over border passes and peaks. Nature puts on a grand performance in this unforgetable open-air theater.

Our adventure begins with a rendez-vous at Chamonix train station, followed by a short transfer to the village of Les Houches. From there, we hike across the balconies of Saint Gervais, into the depths of the Montjoie Valley and the charming village of Les Contamines-Montjoie. A historic roman road through the nature reserve leads  towards the col du Bonhomme (2439m), a route long frequented by hawkers, and the col de la Seigne (2516m) on the Franco-Italian border.

From the Italian Val Ferret, we cross into the Swiss Val Ferret via the Grand Col Ferret (2537m): Mont Dolent (3823m) holding the border of all 3 countries. The sound of cowbells welcomes us at every alpine hamlet, traditional homes drapped in blooming geraniums...

We end this magical trip with the majestic views from the balcony trails of the Aiguille Rouges Nature Reserve. Catch Mont Blanc's reflection in the still waters of the lake- a jewel set in an alpine crown

Itinerary

  • Day 1 Les Houches - Les Contamines-Montjoie

    Les Houches - Les Contamines-Montjoie We meet bright and early at 8:45 AM in front of the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc train station. After a short transfer by bus, we ride the Bellevue cable car from the village of Les Houches—right at the gateway to the Chamonix Valley. From the top, a sweeping panorama unfolds: Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges, the Fiz range, and the Aravis mountains.
    Our trek begins at 1,800 meters on a stunning balcony trail that leads us to the foot of the Bionnassay Glacier, with the option to cross the Col du Tricot (2,120m) if conditions allow. We descend into the alpine village of Les Contamines-Montjoie to rest for the night.

    Ascent: +410m (or +760m via Tricot variant) / Descent: -1000m (or -1360m via Tricot) / Max Alt: 2,120m / Accommodation: Mountain lodge (gîte)

  • Day 2 Les Contamines - Col du Bonhomme - Vallée des Glaciers

    Les Contamines - Col du Bonhomme - Vallée des Glaciers We start the day at Notre Dame de la Gorge, a gem of baroque alpine charm. A long but rewarding ascent brings us to the historic Col du Bonhomme (2,329m), a pass once trodden by shepherds, soldiers, pilgrims, and traders. At the summit, we’re greeted with panoramic views of the Beaufortain region.
    We continue along the Gittes ridgeline and descend into high pastures dotted with Tarine and Abondance cows—the proud producers of the region’s famous cheeses, including the delicious Beaufort you’re likely to sample during the week.

    Ascent: +1,550m / Descent: -900m / Max Alt: 2,665m / Accommodation: Mountain refuge

  • Day 3 Vallée des Glaciers - Col de la Seigne - Val Veny (Italy)

    Vallée des Glaciers - Col de la Seigne - Val Veny (Italy) Today, we cross our first international border at the iconic Col de la Seigne (2,516m), a pass used since antiquity and marking the watershed between the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. From here, the Italian side of Mont Blanc reveals its spectacular snow-covered peaks.
    We descend into the scenic Val Veny and spend the night in a refuge nestled at the foot of the Brenva Glacier, beneath the dramatic spire of the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey.

    Ascent: +1000m / Descent: -1150m / Max Alt: 2,516m / Accommodation: Refuge

  • Day 4 Val Veny - Courmayeur - Val Ferret

    Val Veny - Courmayeur - Val Ferret This morning, we descend into Courmayeur—perhaps with time for a well-earned gelato—before beginning our next stretch into the Italian Val Ferret. Towering above us are the majestic Grandes Jorasses, part of the mighty Mont Blanc massif.
    We hike toward either the Walter Bonatti Refuge (2,025m) or the Elena Refuge (2,061m) for our final Italian overnight. Vehicles don’t reach the refuge, allowing us to soak in the pristine alpine wilderness. This leg of the journey also offers a window into the proud heritage of legendary alpine guides.

    (Refuge choice subject to availability—confirmed at time of booking.)

    Ascent: +1,415m / Descent: -587m 6 Max Alt: 2,025m / Accommodation: Refuge / Alternative route: +900m / -740m / Max Altitude: 2,537m

  • Day 5 Grand Col Ferret - La Peule - Champex (Switzerland)

    Grand Col Ferret - La Peule - Champex (Switzerland) We make our way up the upper reaches of the Italian Val Ferret to the Grand Col Ferret (2,537m), the border between Italy and Switzerland. On the way, we pass beneath the Pré de Bar Glacier and Mont Dolent—the meeting point of France, Switzerland, and Italy.
    After crossing the col, we descend into the Swiss pastures of La Peule, where a stop to sample local dairy products is well worth it. From the village of Ferret, we transfer by local bus through Orsières to reach the picturesque lakeside village of Champex

    Ascent: +900m / Descent: -940m / Max Alt: 2,537m / Accommodation: Refuge /Alternative route: +850m / -900m / Max Alt: 2,005m

  • Day 6 Champex - Trient - Bovine - Argentière

    Champex - Trient - Bovine - Argentière We depart Champex and head into the high meadows of Bovine, home to the proud black Hérens cows, symbols of the Valais region. This scenic balcony trail offers sweeping views of the Rhône Valley and the distant Grand Combin massif.
    We descend through a peaceful forest to the Col de la Forclaz, then follow the historic Bisses trail—an ancient water channel route—down to the village of Trient. A private transfer brings us back to France via the Col des Montets, ending the day in Argentière.

    Ascent: +850m / Descent: -900m / Max Alt: 2,005m / Accommodation: Gîte or refuge / Alternative route: +1,100m / -1,190m / Max Alt: 2,201m

  • Day 7 Argentière - Lac Blanc - Chamonix

    Argentière - Lac Blanc - Chamonix Our final day brings one of the most iconic views of the entire trek. We hike into the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, directly opposite Mont Blanc, and climb to the shimmering Lac de Chéserys and the stunning Lac Blanc (2,352m)—a jewel of the high Alps reflecting the peaks above.
    We descend along a balcony trail via La Flégère and Le Brévent before making our way back to Chamonix, where our unforgettable adventure comes to a close.

    Ascent: +1,150m / Descent: -1,400m / Max Alt: 2,355m

Important

Itineraries may be modified based on weather conditions or the fitness levels of participants. Your mountain guide has full discretion to adapt the program in the interest of safety and group wellbeing.

Dates & prices

Departures for French-speaking groups:

No departure for now

Trip code: FTOU

Included

  • Full technical organization of your trip
  • Guiding services by a qualified mountain leader
  • Luggage transfers throughout the trek (except Day 4 to Bonatti Refuge, where                     access for baggage transport is not possible)
  • Accommodation in mountain gîtes, inns, and refuges
  • All half-board meals and daily picnic lunches
  • All scheduled transfers (by train or bus, as per the itinerary)
  • Bellevue cable car ride from Les Houches

    • Not included

  • Travel to and from Chamonix (our meeting point)
  • Trail snacks (e.g., energy bars, dried fruit, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Drinks and personal expenses in refuges
  • Flégère cable car (if used, depending on the final route)


    • Payable On Site

    • Drinks
    • Personal expenses

    International flights

    Flights & Transfers

    We can assist with booking your flight to Geneva from your city of departure.

    Need help getting to Chamonix?
    We can also organize your Geneva–Chamonix–Geneva transfers for a smooth and easy arrival.

    Terms and conditions

    Booking conditions

    By booking one of our travels, the customer bindingly accepts the general terms and conditions of sale. Each customer must fill a registration form. The booking is definitively registered when the customer has settled the payment of a deposit of 35 % of the total trip's price (subject to availability at the time of registration). In case of short term booking – within 35 days before the travel departure, the full trip's price is due immediately. Payments can be settled via bank transfer (SWIFT code/IBAN number) or online, directly from our website (available soon). You will receive an email with a booking confirmation as quickly as possible.

    Invoice procedure

    Once your booking registered, we send you an email with the invoice. Full payment is required at least 35 days before your arrival. If the customer does not settle the payment of the travel's price within the period agreed upon, Altaï Alpes gets the right to cancel the booking without additional charges.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancellation by You

    If, for any reason, you need to cancel your trip, the amounts you have paid will be refunded, subject to the following deductions:

    You must notify us of your decision to cancel in writing, using any method that provides acknowledgment of receipt. The cancellation date will be determined based on the date we receive your written notice.

    In case of cancellation, for any reason, the following cancellation fees will apply:

    • More than 31 days before departure: 30% of the total trip cost (excluding insurance)
    • 30 to 21 days before departure: 40% of the total trip cost (excluding insurance)
    • 20 to 14 days before departure: 50% of the total trip cost (excluding insurance)
    • 13 to 7 days before departure: 75% of the total trip cost (excluding insurance)
    • Less than 7 days before departure: 100% of the total trip cost (excluding insurance)

    Special Cases

    Regardless of the cancellation or contract modification date, the following fees are added to the above scale:

    • Non-refundable fixed ground fees: Any firm bookings made early (such as certain mountain huts) will be charged in case of cancellation.
    • Insurance and registration fees: Whatever the insurance policy chosen, the cost of insurance and registration fees are non-refundable.

    If you have taken out multi-risk insurance, the cancellation fees may be reimbursed by the insurance in specific cases (e.g., illness, accident, death, etc.).
    The insurance becomes effective from the day of subscription and payment.

    Cancellation by Us

    Altaï France may cancel a trip free of charge in the following cases:

    • If the minimum number of participants required to run the trip is not met.
    • In case of exceptional and unavoidable circumstances, especially related to mountain conditions and customer safety.

    In such cases, Altaï France will propose alternative solutions. If no suitable alternative is available, any unused services will be refunded. No additional compensation can be claimed.

    You will be informed of any cancellation as soon as possible, and no later than:

    • 30 days before departure for self-guided or exclusive trips
    • 20 days before departure for trips longer than 6 days requiring a minimum number of participants
    • 7 days before departure for trips lasting 2 to 6 days
    • 48 hours before departure for trips shorter than 2 days

    If Altaï France is forced to cancel all or part of the trip due to circumstances that compromise customer safety (e.g., poor mountain weather), the unused services will be refunded. No additional compensation will be provided.

    For safety reasons and to ensure a consistent group level as described, the guide and organizers reserve the right to terminate your participation if your technical level or physical condition does not meet the requirements. In such a case, no refund or compensation will be provided.

    Changes to travel contract

    If any change is made in the travel's contract at the customer’s request, any fee that might arise from this change shall be paid by the customer. In any cases, every request for changes shall be notified in writing. In case of external events that could not be foreseen, Altaï Alpes might change some aspects of the travel contract. We will endeavour to inform you of any change as quickly as possible.

    Pricing

    All travel prices for groups on our website have been calculated for the indicated number of participants. The price list is confirmed after the booking. If the number of participants is lower than expected, an additional payment charge might be applied. For each travel and program, we mention the price per person – valid for the minimum number of participants – and we provide you with detailed explanations about the services included or not. Any change, of the currency exchange rates or on the price of travel's services in particular regarding the cost of the fuel, might entail price revision.

    Contract transfer

    In case of transfer of the contract by the customer to an assignee, modification and cancellation conditions will be applied.

    Insurance

    We recommend you to get your own insurance before your departure to cover the activities undertaken by Altaï Alpes. Please email us your insurance contract information (insurance company's name, contract number, phone number) and bring this information with you during your trip. 

    Practical info

    Staff

    Expert Guiding

    Your adventure is led by a certified mountain leader who ensures not only your safety but also enriches your journey with technical know-how and local insights. Depending on the weather and group fitness, your guide may adapt the route to ensure the best experience for all. Our guides are chosen for their deep knowledge of the region, cultural passion, and love for sharing the mountains they call home.

    Food

    Food & Meals

    ·       Lunches are hearty picnics prepared by your guide the evening before, often featuring fresh salads, charcuterie, cheese, and fruit. Don’t be surprised if your guide slips away for an hour or two after dinner—they're busy preparing delicious food for your next day on the trail!

    ·       Dinners are served at the accommodation each evening.

    ·       We recommend bringing your favourite snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate, dried fruit) and perhaps a regional treat from home to share during a trailside aperitif!


    Drinks

    Drinks are not included in the trip cost, so we recommend carrying some cash (in both Euros and Swiss Francs) for coffee, juice, beer, or a refreshing soda during your rest stops. Many mountain huts do not accept credit cards.

    Accommodation

    Accommodation

    You’ll stay in traditional mountain refuges or lodges. Most overnight stays are in dormitory-style rooms with provided blankets. Please bring a sleeping bag liner and pillowcase. Nearly all refuges now have showers (tokens may be required), so pack light toiletries. In inns and gîtes, rooms are shared and bathrooms are communal.

    Transportation

    Luggage

    Each day, you’ll carry a light daypack with your picnic and personal items. Your main luggage is transported by a specialist service, with the exception of the night at the Bonatti refuge, where you’ll carry gear for two days—as no vehicles reach this serene spot.


    Meeting Point

    We meet at 9:00 AM at the SNCF train station in Chamonix.

    Please let us know in advance if you’re arriving by train or car.
    ·       By Train: Travel to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains Le Fayet, then connect to Chamonix Centre via Martigny. Visit www.voyages-sncf.com for schedules.

    ·       By Car: Direct access via the Autoroute Blanche, connected to the European motorway network.


    End of Tour: Dispersion is between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM in Chamonix.

    Budget & exchange

    France and Italy use the Euro (€), while Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Most Swiss shops accept Euros. Credit cards are useful, but not always reliable in remote areas, and most mountain refuges do not have card machines. We recommend bringing cash for purchases and drinks.
    For up to date exchange rates: https://www.xe.com/

    Tips

    Guests often cover drinks for their guide. A small shared tip fund at the start of the trip is a helpful and appreciated gesture (optional).

    Supplied equipment

    Group equipment such as maps, compass, altimeter, and first aid kit is provided by your guide.

    Vital equipment

    We recommend dressing using the three layer rule for maximum comfort and safety:

    ·       A breathable base layer (short- or long-sleeve)

    ·       A warm fleece or insulating mid-layer

    ·       A windproof, waterproof shell (e.g., Gore-Tex)


    Quick-drying fabrics are best—avoid cotton. Wool, silk, and synthetic fibres are ideal for staying warm and dry. Sweat-soaked clothing is your enemy during cold rest breaks!

    Material

    Technical material

    ·       Well-worn trekking boots with ankle support and Vibram soles (never new!)

    ·       Telescopic trekking poles

    ·       Sleeping bag liner

    ·       Compact toiletry kit + quick-dry towel

    ·       High SPF sunscreen and lip balm

    ·       Headlamp + spare batteries/bulb

    ·       1.5L water bottle or CamelBak

    ·       Pocketknife

    ·       Toilet paper + lighter

    ·       2–3 plastic bags (100L) to waterproof your gear

    ·       Reusable lunch container + cutlery


    Personal equipment

    ·       Warm hat and gloves (fleece or wool)

    ·       Sun hat, cap, or scarf

    ·       High-quality sunglasses (Category 3)

    ·       Breathable technical underwear

    ·       Breathable base layers (long- and short-sleeve)

    ·       Fleece jacket

    ·       Down or insulated jacket

    ·       Waterproof/windproof outer jacket (Gore-Tex style)

    ·       Technical leggings

    ·       Comfortable hiking trousers

    ·       Shorts or cropped pants

    ·       Waterproof trousers

    ·       Hiking socks (thin + thick, no cotton)

    ·       Sleepwear

    Luggage

    Pack Light, Pack Smart Your daypack (approx. 30L) should have a supportive hip belt and chest strap. Line it with a trash bag to keep gear dry.

    Guide’s Tip:

    In your daypack, carry:

    ·       Warm clothes (fleece, gloves, hat)

    ·       Rain gear

    ·       Water bottle

    ·       Camera*

    ·       Sunscreen

    ·       Your daily picnic


    Main Luggage (transported):

    Max weight: 9kg. Please avoid suitcases. Luggage must be left each morning at the designated pick-up point. Do not lock your bags, as they may be inspected at border crossings.


    NB- Prohibited in transported luggage:

    ·       Laptops or electronics

    ·       Cameras

    ·       Valuables

    Medicine

    Your guide carries a basic first aid kit. Please bring your own personal medication kit, including:

    ·       Personal prescriptions

    ·       Painkillers (paracetamol preferred)

    ·       Blister protection (Compeed, etc.)

    ·       Bandages and plasters

    ·       Local antiseptic

    ·       Anti-inflammatory medication

    ·       Anti-spasmodic

    ·       Anti-diarrhoeal

    ·       Anti-nausea tablets

    ·       Intestinal antiseptic

    ·       Eye drops

    ·       Light sleep aid

    ·       Ear plugs

    ·       Broad-spectrum antibiotics

    ·       Vitamin C (*This list is not exhaustive. Consult your doctor before travel.)

    Passport

    Please ensure your passport or national ID is valid for travel in France, Italy, and Switzerland. No visas or vaccinations are required for EU citizens.

    Visa

    • Up to 90 days visit : citizens from most countries do not need a visa to visit France, Italy or Switzerland.
    • Over 90 days visit : non-EU or non-EFTA citizens must have a visa to visit France, Italy or Switzerland over 90 days.

    For further information, please check the following website : https://france-visas.gouv.fr/

    Identity card

    For EU citizens, you may use your identity card to travel to France, Italy or Switzerland. 

    Mandatory vaccines

    No required vaccination. 

    Health information & recommendations

    Fitness & Preparation A good level of physical fitness is essential. Regular endurance training such as running, swimming, cycling, or fast-paced walking is recommended. The best preparation? Hiking!

    We suggest 2–3 sessions of endurance sport per week for at least 3 months before your trip, plus weekend hikes of 6+ hours with 350m elevation gain per hour.


    Please inform us of any relevant medical conditions (e.g., allergies, asthma, diabetes, heart issues).

    Weather

    Expect cool temperatures alongside seering heat in the mid-mountain environment, even in summer. Temperatures drop about 0.65°C per 100m gained in altitude.
    Be prepared for changing weather—sunshine in the morning can turn to storms in the afternoon. Always pack warm layers and waterproof gear.

    Electricity

    Electricity is available in most accommodations, but a portable charger is useful.

    ·       France: Type E plugs, 230V, 50Hz

    ·       Italy: 220–230V, round-pin plugs

    ·       Switzerland: Type J plugs (3-pin, recessed), 230V. Most standard European 2-pin plugs work, but an adapter may still be needed.

    Local time

    ·       Central European Time (CET): UTC+1

    ·       Central European Summer Time (CEST): UTC+2

    Sustainable tourism

    At Altaï, we believe in small-group travel that respects nature and local communities. Our adventures are designed to leave minimal impact on the environment.

    Help us preserve the beauty of the mountains:


    ·       Carpool or use public transport where possible

    ·       Leave no trace: carry your waste if no bin is available, and recycle when possible

    ·       Smokers: please do not throw cigarette butts in nature

    ·       Respect wildlife: stay quiet and on marked trails to avoid disturbing animals


    The mountains are a gift—let’s protect them together.

    Request a quote
    Quentin

    My local agent
    Quentin

    • Natif de l'arrière pays provençal, j'arpente depuis mon plus jeune âge les alpes du sud et les massifs provençaux en rando et vélo. C'est avec plaisir que je partagerai mes coups de coeur afin que vous puissiez profiter au mieux de votre séjour à nos côtés.
    Request a quote
    Region
    Northern Alps : around Mont blanc
    Activity
    Summer Trekking
    Duration
    7 days
    Group
    8 to 12 people
    Code
    FTOU
    Price
    From €1,120
    Level
    4/5
    Comfort
    3/5
    Language(s)
    French

    Strengths

  • A must-do adventure for mountain enthusiasts and nature lovers alike
  • Awe-inspiring glacier views—so close, they’ll take your breath away
  • Unforgettable panoramas from the legendary Grand Balcon Sud to Mont Fortin, with sweeping views of the Bionnassay Glacier

    • Guide's advice

    Arguably the most iconic hiking route in Europe—spanning over 170 km, the Tour du Mont Blanc takes you through ever-changing landscapes, from dramatic peaks to quiet valleys, with every step offering new sights, stories, and moments of connection along the trail.

    Required level

    Technical Difficulty: 1/5
    Physical Challenge: 3/5
    Commitment Level: 2/5

    This itinerary is ideal for confident and experienced hikers. Some stages include ascents or descents of up to 1,200 meters and up to 8 hours of walking per day. A solid level of fitness and endurance is essential to fully enjoy the journey.

    What to Expect

    Technical Terrain

    The trails are wide, well-marked, and generally easy to follow. Early in the season, snow patches (névés) may still be present, in which case your guide will ensure all necessary safety measures are in place. Some descents can be a bit rocky, so sturdy footwear is a must—we also highly recommend bringing telescopic trekking poles (see our gear list).


    Physical Challenge

    Expect to hike for 6 to 8 hours a day, across 7 consecutive days. Regular breaks are part of the rhythm—perfect for catching your breath and soaking up the views. Your guide will always adjust the pace to match the slowest in the group, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery without pressure. It’s not about setting records—it’s about embracing the experience.


    Level of Commitment

    Each evening, we arrive in a village or hamlet where help can be reached quickly in case of an emergency (except in severe weather). Your guide always carries a fully equipped first aid kit. If helicopters are grounded due to conditions, we are never more than a 3-hour walk from the nearest road, making land evacuation possible.

    A mountain trek is a different kind of adventure—living in a group, adapting to ever-changing terrain and weather. It calls for flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor. A touch of kindness and a good dose of curiosity go a long way toward making the most of your time in the mountains.


    Leave your daily worries behind—you’ll appreciate the magic of the mountains all the more.

    Take a moment to reflect: is this the right level for you?

    Download trip details

    Request a quote