At the foot of Mont Blanc in the town of Courmayeur, these lodges are perfectly located for mountain views and relaxation on their amazing gardened terraces and balconies. Enjoy their lovely breakfast buffet or an evening drink with views of the surrounding peaks!
Tour Du Mont Blanc
Inn-Based Hiking Tours
9 Days, 8 Nights 57.3MI / 92.1KMTrip Highlights
This trip is a must-do for all mountain hiking enthusiasts! Faithful to the myth, Mont Blanc is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and impressive mountains in the world. This hiking tour will lead you from France to Italy to Switzerland in order to experience the towering Mont Blanc massif from a variety of perspectives. Our route takes us over high passes, through deep valleys, and in and out of quaint European mountain villages. The views are breath-taking with innumerable alpine peaks and stunning glaciers surrounding the impressive Mont Blanc massif constantly in the background. This hike is quite demanding, however guests only carry a light daypack each day. In the evenings, you will enjoy French and Italian cooking, paired with a hearty serving of Swiss hospitality in the traditional alpine villages we stay in!
Looking to stay longer in the Chamonix Valley and explore? We have you covered with a 2-night, Chamonix Add-on Package that includes admission to some the most iconic sights and attractions Chamonix has to offer. All activities can be done on your own schedule to allow you the freedom to relax and enjoy this portion of your trip however you desire. We also include a day pass to a luxurious spa for those looking to maximize their relaxation and recovery after their trek.
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World Famous Trek
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Wonderful Lodging
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Stunning Mountain Views
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Deep, Dramatic Valleys
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Unique Wildlife
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Delicious Regional Cuisine
Book This Trip
View Dates
Trip Details
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Trip Type
Inn-Based Hiking Tours -
Trip Length
9 Days, 8 Nights -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 10 mi -
Group Size
2-12 Guests
Receive a PDF info packet via email which includes:
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
This trip has long days of hiking with significant elevation changes (3,000+ ft is not unusual), but we’re carrying light day packs on good trails with very comfortable night-time accommodations. Expect an average of 6 or 7 hours, with a max of as much as 9 hours, of hiking in a day.
Difficulty Level
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Solitude Level
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Trip Map & Location Details
Trip Itinerary
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
Day 1
Accommodation: Lodge in Les Houches, France
On this Alps hiking tour, we meet at our first accommodation of the trip in the charming village of Les Houches. You may check into the hotel anytime after 4:00 PM and get settled in to your room surrounded by a wonderful nature preserve and the village’s traditional architecture from the Savoie region. We’ll meet at 6:00 PM in the main lobby for a trip orientation meeting and full introduction of our group. Then we’ll have dinner at our hotel and get a good night’s rest in preparation for the next day’s hike.
Day 2
Hiking Distance: 8.4 mi (13.5 km)
Elevation Gain: 2100 ft (640 m)
Elevation Loss: 4200 ft (1275 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Les Contamines, France
Departing from Les Houches, we will begin our adventurous trek through the Alps! After a small walk through town, we’ll board a classic Alps cable car and ride it high into the mountains to start our hike. We’ll traverse through deep conifer forests high above the Bionnassay Valley and hike through stunning alpine hamlets with amazing views of Mont Blanc and across the foothills of the Alps. The Dôme du Gouter, Aiguille de Bionnassay, and an impressive glacier beneath the two peaks dominate our views. After reaching our high point we’ll descend through a series of switchbacks to Chalet de Miage. A riverside path leads us into Les Contamines, where we’ll get settled in a cozy, very comfortable hotel and enjoy some delicious French cuisine.
Day 3
Hiking Distance: 9 mi (14.5 km)
Elevation Gain: 3937 ft (1200 m)
Elevation Loss: 2952 ft (900 m)
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Bourg Saint Maurice, France
After a European breakfast buffet at our hotel we will begin with a short shuttle to Notre Dame de la Gorge. Today we’ll climb over two high mountain passes (Col du Bonhomme and the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme) with beautiful views into the surrounding summits and deep valleys, and eventually make our way down into the Chapieux Valley. Today’s biggest highlights are the outstanding views of Aiguille des Glaciers, a sheer, ice-draped peak of the Mont Blanc massif. Tonight’s accommodations are in Bourg Saint Maurice at a charming inn situated in a classic mountain hamlet.
Day 4
Hiking Distance: 9.3 mi (15 km)
Elevation Gain: 2297 ft (700 m)
Elevation Loss: 3280 ft (1000 m)
Trekking Duration: 5-7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Courmayeur, Italy
This morning we shuttle briefly from Bourg Saint Maurice to ville des Glaciers, where we begin our hike into Italy. We’ll hike up and over the Col de la Seigne to the Italian side of the border. On today’s trek, you can expect spectacular views and a fun descent into Val Ferret, a lush alpine valley with rustic homesteads, farms and rich history. We’ll take a bus from La Cantine de la Visaille to Courmayeur, where we check in to our accommodations, which feature incredible panoramic views of the Grandes Jorasses.
Day 5
Hiking Distance: 8 mi (13 km)
Elevation Gain: 2788 ft (850 m)
Elevation Loss: 3280 ft (1000 m)
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Champex, Switzerland
Today starts with breakfast in Italy and ends with dinner in Switzerland! We cross the breathtaking mountain pass Grand Col Ferret and arrive in the quaint, beautiful village of La Fouly in Switzerland. We’ll absorb exceptional views over the massif of Combins in the East and on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. A short shuttle takes us to Champex, a picturesque Swiss village near a beautiful mountain lake.
Day 6
Hiking Distance: 10 mi (16 km)
Elevation Gain: 2434 ft (742 m)
Elevation Loss: 2238 ft (682 m)
Trekking Duration: 7-9 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Trient, Switzerland
We start today’s hike right from our lodging around the lake and start to climb over Bovine Pass (2,040 m, 6,693 ft.), where we’ll savor the awe-inspiring views across the Rhône Valley into the famous Bernese Alps of Switzerland. Today’s lunch is near a quaint mountain hut and local farm, before we head down though lush alpine forests and landscapes to our lodging at a mountain hut, where we’ll celebrate with a delicious dinner!
Day 7
Hiking Distance: 8 mi (13 km)
Elevation Gain: 3280 ft (1000 m)
Elevation Loss: 3444 ft (1050 m)
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Argentières, France
Today takes us up over the Col de la Balme and back into France with fantastic views of Mont Blanc and Aiguille Verte, and ends in the iconic French Alps village of Argentières. We’ll get settled in our rooms and then enjoy a walk around town to soak up views of the alpine country we just descended from. We’ll cap the day off with a return to French cuisine.
Day 8
Hiking Distance: 7 mi (11.2 km)
Elevation Gain: 4290 ft (1308 m)
Elevation Loss: 2420 ft (738 m)
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Chamonix, France
Our final day of trekking! Today’s hike takes us up and over Balcon des Aiguilles Rouges (“Balcony over the Red Peaks”) before a climb to Lac Blanc. Lac Blanc is one of Chamonix’s most famous hikes, and features a high mountain panorama reflected on the turquoise waters of a beautiful alpine lake. This is also an excellent area to see ibex and marmots. We’ll soak up all the beautiful surrounding scenery: Aiguille Verte, Les Drus, La Mer de glace, Aiguilles de Chamonix, Mont Blanc du Tacul, Aiguille du Goûter, and last but not least, Mont Blanc! We’ll finish with a descent towards Chamonix and a short gondola ride to the hamlet of Le Praz. Tonight’s accommodations are in a wonderful 4-star hotel with a sauna and spa, where we can surely relax after our hike. Tonight, we’ll have a celebratory dinner out on the town in Chamonix.
Day 9
Today marks the end of our journey. We’ll enjoy one last breakfast together, where we’ll say our very fond good-byes, and start dreaming of our next adventure! You may leave at any time today (checkout from hotel is 11 am).
Chamonix Add-on Package
Looking to stay longer in the Chamonix Valley and explore? We got you covered with a 2-night, 4-star lodging package that includes admission to some the most iconic sights and attractions Chamonix has to offer. All activities can be done on your own schedule to allow you the freedom to relax and enjoy this portion of your trip however you desire. We also include day passes to a luxurious spa for those looking to maximize their relaxation and recovery after their hike. Click here to read more about our Chamonix Add-On Package!
Trip Dates
Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.
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What's Included
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A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Transportation during the trekking portion of the tour starting on Day 2 and ending on Day 8
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Lodging for the duration of the tour.
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Vehicle transport of luggage between inns (strict 33 lb./15 kg. weight limit applies)
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All meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 9
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Use of a backpack and trekking poles
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device
What's Not Included
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Transportation to Les Houches and from Chamonix -
Airport transportation to Les Houches, France (Day 1) and from Chamonix, France (Day 9)
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Beverages and personal expenses
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All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
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Bar bills, drink bills, telephone bills, Wi-Fi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/laundry)
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Clothes, rain gear, and footwear
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Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
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Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
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Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 5-10% of the total trip cost. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.
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Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required)
Accommodations
* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used
Night 1
HÔTEL CHALET DU BOIS
This quaint lodge is almost as picturesque as its surroundings. It is just minutes from the famous Chamonix Valley. (heated pool, sauna)
Night 2
HÔTEL LE CHRISTIANIA | HÔTEL La chemenaz
These are both traditional, family-run chalets in one of the most charming Alps villages with amazing home-cooked meals. (pool, sauna)
Night 3
HÔTEL L’AUTANTIC | HÔTEL Arolla
Surrounded by major ski resorts and summer mountain destinations, these comfortable hotels offer cozy lodging that put us right in the action for Night 3 of our trek. Both offer wonderful breakfasts, comfortable beds and amazing views!
Night 4
HÔTEL BOUTON D’OR | HÔTEL Crampon | HÔTEL Triolet | HÔTEL Croux
Night 5
HÔTEL ALPINA IN CHAMPEX | HÔTEL Splendide | HÔTEL Du Glacier | HÔTEL
These hotels are quintessential lodges perched high in the Swiss mountain town of Champex, on the shores of a gorgeous alpine lake (Lac de Champex). With Michelin star quality food, expansive views and lovely hosts, our night in Champex is sure to please.
**Groups are often split between two lodges in Champex, but dine together.
Night 6
HÔTEL LA FORCLAZ | HÔTEL Auberge Mont Blanc | HÔTEL La Grande Ourse
Nestled below the Col de la Forclaz mountain pass, these relaxed and simple, family-operated hotels have private bedrooms with shared bathrooms. The highlight is the outstanding views from the hotel decks.
**Please note that guests may need to share a room with others from the group (max of 4 to a room). Sometimes single rooms are unavailable for this night.
Night 7
HÔTEL LES GRANDS MONETS | Hôtel LE DAHU | Hôtel de La Couronne
These hotels are situated at the base of Mont Blanc in an idyllic alpine village called with stunning views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. Soak up the views, the cozy lodging, and the amazing breakfasts!
Night 8
PARK HÔTEL SUISSE | heliopic HÔTEL and Spa
On our final night we enjoy one of two lodges in the amazing town of Chamonix-Mont Blanc, the site of the first Winter Olympics in 1924 and a vibrant town known for its ski resort. Both 4-star accommodations offer breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc Massif and luxuries like spas, saunas, heated pools and wonderful breakfasts.
If you’d like to extend your stay in Chamonix, we offer an add-on package that also features these hotels: Chamonix Add-on Package.
Trip Logistics & FAQs
Where Do We Meet?
We will meet you at our first night’s hotel, Hotel Chalet Du Bois, in Les Houches, France (check-in available after 4:00 PM), where we’ll conduct our orientation meeting at 6:00 PM.
Airport transportation is not included in the tour, but easily planned from the Geneva Airport with multiple convenient options. Please be sure to arrive no later than 5:00 PM into Les Houches in order to make our 6:00 PM orientation meeting. If flying into Geneva (GVA) on Day 1, your flight should arrive no later than 3 pm.
Our pre-trip support team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, airport transportation, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Trip Start and End
Trip Start: Les Houches, France.
Trip End: Chamonix, France
Closest Airport: Geneva International Airport (GVA). Flights to and from Geneva are the guest’s responsibility.
Geneva Airport Transfer Options: Airport transportation is not included in the tour but easily planned to/from the Geneva Airport with multiple economical and convenient options. The airport is approximately 1-1.5 hours from both Les Houches and Chamonix (these two villages are only about a 10 min drive apart).
- Booking a shared transfer in a minivan is approximately a 1 hour. ride (~€35 – 50). We recommend Mountain Drop Offs (use code WILDTREKCHX for a discount code). They offer both private or shared shuttles.
- The most affordable (~€7-11) option is to take the bus from the Geneva Airport. Omio is a good option.
Pre and Post-trip Lodging
We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Chamonix as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.
You can also check out our Chamonix Add-On Package if you’d like to add 2 more nights in Chamonix before or after your hike.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.
Guides
Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.
Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 10 and older to join scheduled or private tours
Trip Insurance Requirements
Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is REQUIRED on all Alps trips as a condition of partnership terms with our European vendors (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).
We recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Alps requirements.
For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.
If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.
Reviews
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Cindy T
5 months agoAmazing Trip!
This was an amazing adventure! The hiking could be challenging but we were well prepared each day with what to expect and the scenery made every step more than worth the effort. Johannes and Matthieu were the best of guides with great advice, encouraging words and lots of humor.
Suma S
12 months agoThis was a wonderful trip.
Hiking the Tour de Mont Blanc was a truly wonderful experience. The area is beautiful, and our guides Willy and Thomas were very friendly, encouraging, and knowledgable about the area. They accommodated different hiking styles and abilities, prepared us for difficult terrain, and taught us so much about the local culture (such as Beaufort cheese!). The staff here in the US were also very responsive with any questions I had prior to leaving and promptly took care of other things that came up even after our return. An all around stellar experience. Many thanks!
Jill S
1 year agoExcellent
Wilfred and Thomas guided us through Mont Blanc. It was a tough trip but they always made us feel safe. They were fun, positive and most encouraging. Couldn't have made it through this hike without such capable and skilled guides.
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