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OVERVIEW

Walk the northern section of the Tour du Mont Blanc from Courmayeur to Chamonix. Trekking through France, Italy and Switzerland, spending each night in hotels.

Traverse high alpine trails and soak up the superb panoramas, including the snow-capped peaks and glaciers of the Mont Blanc Massif. Stay in the charming Swiss lakeside village of Champex and return to France by way of the Col de Balme at the head of Chamonix Valley.

 

Please note: additional transfer fees may apply if our regular accommodation providers have no availability for your preferred departure date. Should this occur, the cost will be communicated to you prior to confirming the booking. If you choose to cancel as a result, your deposit will of course be refunded in full.

Highlights

  • Traverse the high alps of France, Italy, and Switzerland and experience a trio of cultures and cuisines
  • Epic views of Mont Blanc’s magnificent mountains
  • Spot scurrying marmots and nimble mountain goats
  • Hike rugged trails, crossing the Grand Col Ferret into Switzerland
  • Pass through chocolate-box Swiss villages
  • Walk over glacial streams, across alpine pastures and through pine forests

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
9 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Challenging to Strenuous

Grade 6 - Challenging  to Strenuous

Longer, tougher, steeper hill sections, rough terrain and many steps. Active lifestyle, good fitness and walking experience required.
PRICE FROM
$ 3395

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1150

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

  • 30+ years

  • eco travel

  • self guided

  • pack free

CONTACT US
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9

DAY 1
Arrive in Courmayeur

Today you arrive in Courmayeur.  There are a number of ways to get to Courmayeur, including from Switzerland via Geneve airport or if you are in Italy, from Milan. If you get there early, there’s the opportunity to enjoy the amazing experience of taking the series of ski lifts in combination with spherical cable cars that rotate 360 degrees, and travel across the top of the mountain (almost). It is possible to travel from Courmayeur all the way to Chamonix or vice versa this way, but not with luggage.

DAY 2
Courmayeur to Val Ferret

Leave Courmayeur on foot and ascend onto the steep forested slopes of La Montagne de la Saxe. After arriving at Rifugio Bertone, you have two choices. Either follow the standard ‘Balcony Route’, which gives incredible unbroken views across Val Ferret to Mont Blanc and Grand Jorasses. Or take the High Route which is more challenging, but provides some of the most epic views on the walk. On reaching Rifugio Bonatti, the picnic terrace is great for sampling the famous Bonatti hot chocolate and taking in the majesty of the mountains around you. Then descend to Val Ferret and return by bus (30mins) to Courmayeur for the night.

Distance: 14km or 17km
Ascent: 1080m or 1730m
Descent: 580m or 1250m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crampon

DAY 3
Val Ferret to La Fouly

Begin the day with a bus ride back through the impressive Val Ferret. At Arnuva, the head of the valley, a straightforward but steep climb winds up to the Grand Col Ferret. Along the way, enjoy a break at the perfectly placed Rifugio Elena with a café latte and panoramic views back down Val Ferret. Crossing the Grand Col Ferret (2563m), you enter Switzerland. From this spot, views extend to the peak of Mont Dolent, which is shared between France, Italy, and Switzerland. On your descent, pass typical Swiss chalets and flower-filled gardens as you enter the hamlet of La Fouly where you will spend the night.

Distance: 20km
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 1390m
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Edelweiss
The Baumeler family has run the Hotel Edelweiss since 1956. This charming wooden chalet hotel has retained its typical Swiss design but in recent years, the interior has been upgraded with contemporary mountain décor. With great views of Mont Dolent from the terrace, this is a great spot to relax with a cool beer on arrival.

DAY 4
La Fouly to Champex

A day of chocolate-box Swiss villages and one of the easiest stages of the circuit. The route passes through the timeless village of Arlaches. The medieval wooden houses adorned with bright flower boxes provide a window into a bygone era. A steep climb from the valley up to Champex follows. The beautiful lake with its picturesque cafes and bars is definitely worth a stop before heading to your hotel.

Distance: 15km
Ascent: 510m
Descent: 650m
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Glacier
The Bislex family has been welcoming walkers since 1895. Now in its fifth generation, the hotel has continued to provide comfortable ensuite rooms and an ever-changing menu of regional dishes to ensure trekkers are well-fed. Located only a couple of minutes from the lakeside, its location is perfect for a post-dinner stroll.

DAY 5
Champex to Trient

A choice of two stunning routes today. The Standard Route follows the Bovine Trail which ascends steeply through pine forests to take you over glacial streams and across high alpine pastures where the famous ‘Swiss fighting cows’ graze through the summer. Mid-way be sure to stop off at the L’Alpage Bovine which serves delicious homemade apple cake (with excellent views over to the Swiss Bernese Alps).

The alternative is the High Route which heads over the challenging Fenetre d’Arpette (2665m). Considered by many as the toughest day on the circuit, the ascent and descent following a steep, exposed rocky trail across boulder fields and scree slopes. Incredible views of the Trient Glacier and a day of real mountain adventure!

Trek the Bovine Route: 15.5km
Ascent: 850m
Descent: 1040m

Trek via Fenetre d’Arpette: 16km
Ascent: 1200m
Descent: 1390m

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: La Grande Ourse
A typical Swiss trekker’s hotel, La Grande Ourse is simple, comfortable and located in the heart of Trient village. The private rooms and shared bathrooms are immaculate. Before dinner, enjoy an aperitif on the sun terrace with fellow trekkers

DAY 6
Trient to Chamonix

It’s back in France today with a choice of two routes to the border at Col de Balme (2192m). The Standard Route takes a steep but relatively short climb up to the Col. The alternative route features a bit more climbing but loops around via the Refuge Les Grandes and offers good views of the Trient Glacier. From the Col de Balme, you’ll be rewarded with extensive views over Chamonix Valley and the familiar snow-capped peak of Mont Blanc. Relax on the terrace of the Refuge du Col de Balme and enjoy some refreshments. Then either continue on the Standard Route and tackle another ascent to the ridge summit of Aiguillette des Posettes before a long steep descent, or take the direct route into the valley. End the day with a short bus or train ride into Chamonix to reach your accommodation for the night.

Distance: 14km
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 840m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel L’Oustalet

DAY 7
TreleChamp to La Flegere (with options for Lac Blanc and Lac Perseverance)

A spectacular day of mountain walking. Begin with an ascent up forested slopes to the foot of a short section of fixed ladders. Continue upwards on steeper ground with a good chance of spotting small herds of agile Ibex (“bouquetin”). Deep into the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve at the Tete-aux-Ventes track junction, we recommend taking the trail up to the idyllic Lac Blanc where a charming refuge overlooks the cobalt waters of this much-photographed lake. From here there is the option of a short there-and-back walk to see the stunning high alpine lake, Lac Perseverance. Continue on rocky trails to follow the famous “Grand Balcon Sud” path with its astounding vistas across the Chamonix valley to the Mont Blanc Range to the La Flegere cable car station. Descend by cable car to your hotel in Chamonix.

Distance: 8.5km (Add 3km for Lac Blanc and Lac Perseverance)
Ascent: 730m
Descent: 270m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel L’Oustalet

DAY 8
La Flegere to Les Houches

The last day of trekking starts by returning to La Flegere by cable car. Re-joining the TMB, continue on the Grand Balcon walk to Plan Praz. A steep climb to the Col du Brevent and Le Brevent summit (2525m). At the Le Brevent “Le Panoramic” mountain-top restaurant, the snow-capped peaks and glaciers across the valley seem within touching distance. From here, you can take the easier option and descend to Chamonix via the Le Brevent and Plan Praz cable cars. Or continue on foot along rocky ridgelines before descending through alpine woodlands into the village of Les Houches. Return to Chamonix via train or bus. With its many cosmopolitan dining options, Chamonix is a great place to celebrate and reflect on your completion of one of the world’s greatest treks.

Distance: 18.5km
Ascent: 900m
Descent: 1750m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel L’Oustalet

DAY 9
Onward Travel

Depending on your onward travel arrangements, take a walk around Chamonix village or indulge in a morning of freshly baked patisserie cakes and coffee before your departure. If you have time and the weather is clear, we highly recommend taking the cable car up to Aiguille du Midi.

Meals included: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 3 star stays

  • ensuites

  • walking app

  • epic hiking

  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 8  nights accommodation in 3 star hotels or simple hotels
  • 8 breakfasts and 3 dinners
  • Maps, comprehensive Auswalk authored walk notes, GPX tracks and day-by-day summary
  • Itineraries can please flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Daily luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening (not possible in mountain huts)
  • No need to carry a sleep sheet or towel (required for mountain huts)

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

During this tour, you will stay in 3* hotels, small family-run hotels or mountain auberges (small simple hotels). With the exception of Night 5, all rooms are private en-suite. On Night 5 in Trient, accommodation options are limited and bathrooms are shared, but from our experience, they are always clean with a plentiful supply of hot water!  Importantly you will have your luggage with you every night. There will be no need to buy and carry sleep sheets or towels and worry about what to carry with you for an overnight without your luggage.

All the accommodations are accustomed to welcoming trekkers and very well equipped to make your stay comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. Typically, rooms are simple but very comfortable. As many of the overnight stays are in small villages or towns, on occasion, we may have to book another similar accommodation of equal standard. We will discuss these options with you during the booking process.

Should you also request a double room, please note it is the norm in Switzerland for two separate single beds with individual bed linen to be pushed together or even placed into one large bed frame.

Dining
You will be provided with 8 breakfasts and 3 dinners. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you. Especially as ingredients and supplies can be hard to obtain in the mountains.

You will find in some of the smaller accommodations, dining is very often on communal tables with set mealtimes. This enables small kitchen teams to ensure everyone is fed on time and nobody is left hungry after a long day of trekking! Lunches can be purchased locally, which is a great part of the experience as you even can have a sit-down lunch on the track as you go some days. The towns and villages you pass through are renowned for their specialty breads, cheeses and meats (many of which continue to be produced by hand). If you’re lucky enough to encounter a local farmers’ market, the choice and range of local foods are staggering. Many of your accommodations will also make a picnic lunch for you. A staff favourite is the Beaufort cheese from La Vallee des Glaciers, which you can purchase fresh from the farm. Within your daily walk notes, there are detailed suggestions of where to buy lunch each day.

  • NIGHT 1 & 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

  • NIGHT 6, 7 & 8

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

In early July it is possible the trail might remain closed due to heavy snowfall. Should this happen we would do our very best to reschedule the tour for a later date (on occasion it is possible the tour might even be cancelled, but this is rare). Up until late July, some of the higher passes may still have snow on them (with the possibility of them being closed). Should this happen you will be provided with comprehensive information about taking an alternative route and/or local transport. In the event of any major route closures, we will contact you prior to travel and discuss the alternative walk options with you.

Towards the end of the season (early September) some transport options will have stopped operating for the season. You should therefore be prepared to walk the full distance every day. There is always the option of using a local taxi if necessary. Within your travel notes, advice will be given for all transport options to shorten or skip the walking for that specific day.

THE WALKING

Challenging – Tracks and trails on this tour will have prolonged ascents and descents along sections of rough surface and steps.  An average of 16km, 1061m ascent and 1052m descent each day. You may find some sections have narrow footpaths and for your guidance on very rare occasions on very short sections, safety cable lengths have been put in place for you to use as a handrail if needed. Having an active lifestyle and preparing or being an experienced walker will make the journey enjoyable. We would suggest an exercise regime that incorporates uphill walks at least 3 to 4 times weekly.

You will be walking around 16km a day with up to 1500m of ascent and descent. Trails are well-defined, well waymarked and cover a variety of terrains which include; forest tracks, high alpine pastures, rocky mountain paths and through mountain towns and villages. It is also possible you may have to cross some snowy patches on the ascent or descent of higher mountain cols, so good mountain footwear is required! On days 10 and 11 there are short sections of metal ladders, handrails and foot rungs bolted into the rock which is very straightforward to follow. However, if you suffer from vertigo, or have any further questions about these sections, we’d be happy to discuss the options to get around these walks.

Although the route is well waymarked for each of your walks, you will be provided with Auswalk authored comprehensive walk notes, a summary of daily walks, maps (and GPX tracks if you require to use for your own device). Mountain weather can change quickly so it is essential that at least one of your trekking party is confident in using a map and compass to navigate (should visibility drop). You should always be able to locate your whereabouts on a map.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

To Courmayeur
This walk starts in Courmayeur. We have not included any transfers, you will need to make your own way to the start of the walk. The closest airport is Geneva Airport. We can arrange a shared transfer from Geneva Airport to Chamonix bus station at an additional cost. This is only available between 10.00am and 7.30pm (9.00pm on Thursday and Friday nights only). From Chamonix bus station it is an easy bus ride to Courmayeur and then a short walk to your accommodation.

There is also a train station in Chamonix if you wish to arrive by train from Paris, for example.

Onward travel from Chamonix
This walk ends in Chamonix. We have not included any transfers for you. You will need to make your own way from Chamonix. We can arrange a transfer from Chamonix to Geneva Airport at an additional cost, please see above times and ask your destination consultant for assistance.

A useful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from or to other destinations.

LUGGAGE TRANSFERS

Each morning it will be up to you to place your luggage at the designated luggage pick-up point within the hotel by 8.00 am. This generally will be at reception or where you pick up your luggage the night before. Please consult your hosts if any details. Bags must be less than 15kg (this is French legislation) and be Soft Bags (i.e. not hard cases).

Importantly, any excess kilos can be stored for free at the luggage transfer company.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

IMPORTANT - SOLO WALKERS

For your safety and well-being, we are unable to accept bookings for solo walkers on our self-guided European Alps walking trips. The remote nature of some tracks and limited mobile reception mean that walking alone presents a higher risk in case of emergencies.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Jul 2025 - 5 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1150

    High-season surcharge may apply in August

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jul 2026 - 5 Sep 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3535

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195

    High-season surcharge may apply in August

    BOOK NOW

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Peter S

    26 September, 2024 at 10:33 AM
    5

    Auswalks arranged for me and my son to do the Highlights of TMB walk in early September 2024. The planning was made more complex by the unexpected closure of the key tunnel between Chamonix and Courmayeur. All aspects of the walk were efficiently, courteously and promptly arranged. Both the travelling and walking instructions were very clear and comprehensive, the app very helpful, and the choice of accommodation and selected walks were ideal. I have no hesitation in recommending AusWalks for walking tours in Australia or overseas.

    Reply

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Overview

OVERVIEW

Walk the northern section of the Tour du Mont Blanc from Courmayeur to Chamonix. Trekking through France, Italy and Switzerland, spending each night in hotels.

Traverse high alpine trails and soak up the superb panoramas, including the snow-capped peaks and glaciers of the Mont Blanc Massif. Stay in the charming Swiss lakeside village of Champex and return to France by way of the Col de Balme at the head of Chamonix Valley.

 

Please note: additional transfer fees may apply if our regular accommodation providers have no availability for your preferred departure date. Should this occur, the cost will be communicated to you prior to confirming the booking. If you choose to cancel as a result, your deposit will of course be refunded in full.

Highlights

  • Traverse the high alps of France, Italy, and Switzerland and experience a trio of cultures and cuisines
  • Epic views of Mont Blanc’s magnificent mountains
  • Spot scurrying marmots and nimble mountain goats
  • Hike rugged trails, crossing the Grand Col Ferret into Switzerland
  • Pass through chocolate-box Swiss villages
  • Walk over glacial streams, across alpine pastures and through pine forests

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
9 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Challenging to Strenuous

Grade 6 - Challenging  to Strenuous

Longer, tougher, steeper hill sections, rough terrain and many steps. Active lifestyle, good fitness and walking experience required.
PRICE FROM
$ 3395

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1150

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

  • 30+ years

  • eco travel

  • self guided

  • pack free

CONTACT US
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9

DAY 1
Arrive in Courmayeur

Today you arrive in Courmayeur.  There are a number of ways to get to Courmayeur, including from Switzerland via Geneve airport or if you are in Italy, from Milan. If you get there early, there’s the opportunity to enjoy the amazing experience of taking the series of ski lifts in combination with spherical cable cars that rotate 360 degrees, and travel across the top of the mountain (almost). It is possible to travel from Courmayeur all the way to Chamonix or vice versa this way, but not with luggage.

DAY 2
Courmayeur to Val Ferret

Leave Courmayeur on foot and ascend onto the steep forested slopes of La Montagne de la Saxe. After arriving at Rifugio Bertone, you have two choices. Either follow the standard ‘Balcony Route’, which gives incredible unbroken views across Val Ferret to Mont Blanc and Grand Jorasses. Or take the High Route which is more challenging, but provides some of the most epic views on the walk. On reaching Rifugio Bonatti, the picnic terrace is great for sampling the famous Bonatti hot chocolate and taking in the majesty of the mountains around you. Then descend to Val Ferret and return by bus (30mins) to Courmayeur for the night.

Distance: 14km or 17km
Ascent: 1080m or 1730m
Descent: 580m or 1250m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crampon

DAY 3
Val Ferret to La Fouly

Begin the day with a bus ride back through the impressive Val Ferret. At Arnuva, the head of the valley, a straightforward but steep climb winds up to the Grand Col Ferret. Along the way, enjoy a break at the perfectly placed Rifugio Elena with a café latte and panoramic views back down Val Ferret. Crossing the Grand Col Ferret (2563m), you enter Switzerland. From this spot, views extend to the peak of Mont Dolent, which is shared between France, Italy, and Switzerland. On your descent, pass typical Swiss chalets and flower-filled gardens as you enter the hamlet of La Fouly where you will spend the night.

Distance: 20km
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 1390m
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Edelweiss
The Baumeler family has run the Hotel Edelweiss since 1956. This charming wooden chalet hotel has retained its typical Swiss design but in recent years, the interior has been upgraded with contemporary mountain décor. With great views of Mont Dolent from the terrace, this is a great spot to relax with a cool beer on arrival.

DAY 4
La Fouly to Champex

A day of chocolate-box Swiss villages and one of the easiest stages of the circuit. The route passes through the timeless village of Arlaches. The medieval wooden houses adorned with bright flower boxes provide a window into a bygone era. A steep climb from the valley up to Champex follows. The beautiful lake with its picturesque cafes and bars is definitely worth a stop before heading to your hotel.

Distance: 15km
Ascent: 510m
Descent: 650m
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Glacier
The Bislex family has been welcoming walkers since 1895. Now in its fifth generation, the hotel has continued to provide comfortable ensuite rooms and an ever-changing menu of regional dishes to ensure trekkers are well-fed. Located only a couple of minutes from the lakeside, its location is perfect for a post-dinner stroll.

DAY 5
Champex to Trient

A choice of two stunning routes today. The Standard Route follows the Bovine Trail which ascends steeply through pine forests to take you over glacial streams and across high alpine pastures where the famous ‘Swiss fighting cows’ graze through the summer. Mid-way be sure to stop off at the L’Alpage Bovine which serves delicious homemade apple cake (with excellent views over to the Swiss Bernese Alps).

The alternative is the High Route which heads over the challenging Fenetre d’Arpette (2665m). Considered by many as the toughest day on the circuit, the ascent and descent following a steep, exposed rocky trail across boulder fields and scree slopes. Incredible views of the Trient Glacier and a day of real mountain adventure!

Trek the Bovine Route: 15.5km
Ascent: 850m
Descent: 1040m

Trek via Fenetre d’Arpette: 16km
Ascent: 1200m
Descent: 1390m

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: La Grande Ourse
A typical Swiss trekker’s hotel, La Grande Ourse is simple, comfortable and located in the heart of Trient village. The private rooms and shared bathrooms are immaculate. Before dinner, enjoy an aperitif on the sun terrace with fellow trekkers

DAY 6
Trient to Chamonix

It’s back in France today with a choice of two routes to the border at Col de Balme (2192m). The Standard Route takes a steep but relatively short climb up to the Col. The alternative route features a bit more climbing but loops around via the Refuge Les Grandes and offers good views of the Trient Glacier. From the Col de Balme, you’ll be rewarded with extensive views over Chamonix Valley and the familiar snow-capped peak of Mont Blanc. Relax on the terrace of the Refuge du Col de Balme and enjoy some refreshments. Then either continue on the Standard Route and tackle another ascent to the ridge summit of Aiguillette des Posettes before a long steep descent, or take the direct route into the valley. End the day with a short bus or train ride into Chamonix to reach your accommodation for the night.

Distance: 14km
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 840m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel L’Oustalet

DAY 7
TreleChamp to La Flegere (with options for Lac Blanc and Lac Perseverance)

A spectacular day of mountain walking. Begin with an ascent up forested slopes to the foot of a short section of fixed ladders. Continue upwards on steeper ground with a good chance of spotting small herds of agile Ibex (“bouquetin”). Deep into the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve at the Tete-aux-Ventes track junction, we recommend taking the trail up to the idyllic Lac Blanc where a charming refuge overlooks the cobalt waters of this much-photographed lake. From here there is the option of a short there-and-back walk to see the stunning high alpine lake, Lac Perseverance. Continue on rocky trails to follow the famous “Grand Balcon Sud” path with its astounding vistas across the Chamonix valley to the Mont Blanc Range to the La Flegere cable car station. Descend by cable car to your hotel in Chamonix.

Distance: 8.5km (Add 3km for Lac Blanc and Lac Perseverance)
Ascent: 730m
Descent: 270m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel L’Oustalet

DAY 8
La Flegere to Les Houches

The last day of trekking starts by returning to La Flegere by cable car. Re-joining the TMB, continue on the Grand Balcon walk to Plan Praz. A steep climb to the Col du Brevent and Le Brevent summit (2525m). At the Le Brevent “Le Panoramic” mountain-top restaurant, the snow-capped peaks and glaciers across the valley seem within touching distance. From here, you can take the easier option and descend to Chamonix via the Le Brevent and Plan Praz cable cars. Or continue on foot along rocky ridgelines before descending through alpine woodlands into the village of Les Houches. Return to Chamonix via train or bus. With its many cosmopolitan dining options, Chamonix is a great place to celebrate and reflect on your completion of one of the world’s greatest treks.

Distance: 18.5km
Ascent: 900m
Descent: 1750m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel L’Oustalet

DAY 9
Onward Travel

Depending on your onward travel arrangements, take a walk around Chamonix village or indulge in a morning of freshly baked patisserie cakes and coffee before your departure. If you have time and the weather is clear, we highly recommend taking the cable car up to Aiguille du Midi.

Meals included: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 3 star stays

  • ensuites

  • walking app

  • epic hiking

  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 8  nights accommodation in 3 star hotels or simple hotels
  • 8 breakfasts and 3 dinners
  • Maps, comprehensive Auswalk authored walk notes, GPX tracks and day-by-day summary
  • Itineraries can please flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Daily luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening (not possible in mountain huts)
  • No need to carry a sleep sheet or towel (required for mountain huts)
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

During this tour, you will stay in 3* hotels, small family-run hotels or mountain auberges (small simple hotels). With the exception of Night 5, all rooms are private en-suite. On Night 5 in Trient, accommodation options are limited and bathrooms are shared, but from our experience, they are always clean with a plentiful supply of hot water!  Importantly you will have your luggage with you every night. There will be no need to buy and carry sleep sheets or towels and worry about what to carry with you for an overnight without your luggage.

All the accommodations are accustomed to welcoming trekkers and very well equipped to make your stay comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. Typically, rooms are simple but very comfortable. As many of the overnight stays are in small villages or towns, on occasion, we may have to book another similar accommodation of equal standard. We will discuss these options with you during the booking process.

Should you also request a double room, please note it is the norm in Switzerland for two separate single beds with individual bed linen to be pushed together or even placed into one large bed frame.

Dining
You will be provided with 8 breakfasts and 3 dinners. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you. Especially as ingredients and supplies can be hard to obtain in the mountains.

You will find in some of the smaller accommodations, dining is very often on communal tables with set mealtimes. This enables small kitchen teams to ensure everyone is fed on time and nobody is left hungry after a long day of trekking! Lunches can be purchased locally, which is a great part of the experience as you even can have a sit-down lunch on the track as you go some days. The towns and villages you pass through are renowned for their specialty breads, cheeses and meats (many of which continue to be produced by hand). If you’re lucky enough to encounter a local farmers’ market, the choice and range of local foods are staggering. Many of your accommodations will also make a picnic lunch for you. A staff favourite is the Beaufort cheese from La Vallee des Glaciers, which you can purchase fresh from the farm. Within your daily walk notes, there are detailed suggestions of where to buy lunch each day.

  • NIGHT 1 & 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

  • NIGHT 6, 7 & 8

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

In early July it is possible the trail might remain closed due to heavy snowfall. Should this happen we would do our very best to reschedule the tour for a later date (on occasion it is possible the tour might even be cancelled, but this is rare). Up until late July, some of the higher passes may still have snow on them (with the possibility of them being closed). Should this happen you will be provided with comprehensive information about taking an alternative route and/or local transport. In the event of any major route closures, we will contact you prior to travel and discuss the alternative walk options with you.

Towards the end of the season (early September) some transport options will have stopped operating for the season. You should therefore be prepared to walk the full distance every day. There is always the option of using a local taxi if necessary. Within your travel notes, advice will be given for all transport options to shorten or skip the walking for that specific day.

THE WALKING

Challenging – Tracks and trails on this tour will have prolonged ascents and descents along sections of rough surface and steps.  An average of 16km, 1061m ascent and 1052m descent each day. You may find some sections have narrow footpaths and for your guidance on very rare occasions on very short sections, safety cable lengths have been put in place for you to use as a handrail if needed. Having an active lifestyle and preparing or being an experienced walker will make the journey enjoyable. We would suggest an exercise regime that incorporates uphill walks at least 3 to 4 times weekly.

You will be walking around 16km a day with up to 1500m of ascent and descent. Trails are well-defined, well waymarked and cover a variety of terrains which include; forest tracks, high alpine pastures, rocky mountain paths and through mountain towns and villages. It is also possible you may have to cross some snowy patches on the ascent or descent of higher mountain cols, so good mountain footwear is required! On days 10 and 11 there are short sections of metal ladders, handrails and foot rungs bolted into the rock which is very straightforward to follow. However, if you suffer from vertigo, or have any further questions about these sections, we’d be happy to discuss the options to get around these walks.

Although the route is well waymarked for each of your walks, you will be provided with Auswalk authored comprehensive walk notes, a summary of daily walks, maps (and GPX tracks if you require to use for your own device). Mountain weather can change quickly so it is essential that at least one of your trekking party is confident in using a map and compass to navigate (should visibility drop). You should always be able to locate your whereabouts on a map.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

To Courmayeur
This walk starts in Courmayeur. We have not included any transfers, you will need to make your own way to the start of the walk. The closest airport is Geneva Airport. We can arrange a shared transfer from Geneva Airport to Chamonix bus station at an additional cost. This is only available between 10.00am and 7.30pm (9.00pm on Thursday and Friday nights only). From Chamonix bus station it is an easy bus ride to Courmayeur and then a short walk to your accommodation.

There is also a train station in Chamonix if you wish to arrive by train from Paris, for example.

Onward travel from Chamonix
This walk ends in Chamonix. We have not included any transfers for you. You will need to make your own way from Chamonix. We can arrange a transfer from Chamonix to Geneva Airport at an additional cost, please see above times and ask your destination consultant for assistance.

A useful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from or to other destinations.

LUGGAGE TRANSFERS

Each morning it will be up to you to place your luggage at the designated luggage pick-up point within the hotel by 8.00 am. This generally will be at reception or where you pick up your luggage the night before. Please consult your hosts if any details. Bags must be less than 15kg (this is French legislation) and be Soft Bags (i.e. not hard cases).

Importantly, any excess kilos can be stored for free at the luggage transfer company.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

IMPORTANT - SOLO WALKERS

For your safety and well-being, we are unable to accept bookings for solo walkers on our self-guided European Alps walking trips. The remote nature of some tracks and limited mobile reception mean that walking alone presents a higher risk in case of emergencies.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Jul 2025 - 5 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1150
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jul 2026 - 5 Sep 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3535

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195
    BOOK NOW
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

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  1. Peter S

    26 September, 2024 at 10:33 AM
    5

    Auswalks arranged for me and my son to do the Highlights of TMB walk in early September 2024. The planning was made more complex by the unexpected closure of the key tunnel between Chamonix and Courmayeur. All aspects of the walk were efficiently, courteously and promptly arranged. Both the travelling and walking instructions were very clear and comprehensive, the app very helpful, and the choice of accommodation and selected walks were ideal. I have no hesitation in recommending AusWalks for walking tours in Australia or overseas.

    Reply
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