back to top

OVERVIEW

Trek the western route of Tour du Mont Blanc, hiking from Chamonix in France to the Italian mountain town of Courmayeur. This shortened version of one of the world’s classic alpine treks begins in the legendary adventurers’ town of Chamonix. From here, trek underneath the Bionnassay Glacier to the enchanting Refuge de Miage and onto the delightful town of Les Contamines in the Haute Savoie region, famous for its Reblochon cheese.

Hike to the Italian frontier via the Col de la Seigne (2515m) to be presented with dramatic, jagged peaks of the southern Mont Blanc Massif. Descend into Courmayeur where you can choose from two different walks that present incredible vistas of tumbling glaciers, snowy summits and forested valleys. In the evenings, stay in family-run hotels and chalets serving traditional dishes such as a beef stew with polenta, Beaufort cheese tart and of course, a large glass of red wine!

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Hike the westerly route of ‘Tour du Mont Blanc’ from Chamonix to Courmayeur
  • Explore the adventure capital of the Alps, Chamonix
  • Walk over the Col du Bonhomme (2329m) and enjoy far-reaching views of Lac de Roseland
  • Trek from France into Italy, crossing the Col de la Seigne (2515m)
  • Spend the evening in traditional alpine chalets and hotels
  • Trek the Val Ferret with majestic views of Mont Blanc (4808m) and Grandes Jorasses (4208m)
  • Each day, choose different routes to suit your needs
  • Private rooms and luggage transfers included

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.
PRICE FROM
$ 2095

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 455

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

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
Arrive Chamonix

Bustling with outdoor enthusiasts, the French Alpine town of Chamonix is only a 90-minute transfer from Geneva Airport. From the garden of your hotel, relax under the incredible Mont Blanc massif before further exploring the streets, pavement cafes and bars of this famous alpine town.

Accommodation: Hotel Oustalet
Run by the Durban sisters, Agnes and Veronique’s 3* hotel is a typical timber alpine chalet located in the heart of Chamonix. From their spacious garden, relax poolside with exceptional views of the Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc.

Meals included: None

DAY 2
Walk to Les Contamines

Today we’d suggest taking the cable car up to Bellevue (1802m) at the western end of the Chamonix Valley. From Bellevue you have a choice of two routes to Les Contamines; Hike over the Col du Tricot (2102m), under the shadow of the Bionnassay and Aiguille de Bionnassay glaciers and onwards to the picture-postcard Refuge de Miage (famed for their blueberry tart). Alternatively, trek through high alpine pastures and enchanting woodland via the hamlets of Bionnassay and Le Champel to the peaceful village of Les Contamines.

Trek via the Col du Tricot: 18km
Ascent: 1450m
Descent: 1250m

Trek via Bionnassay & Le Champel: 17km
Ascent: 1050m
Descent: 850m

By using the cable from Bellevue either walk is reduced by approx. 2 hours and around 700-800m of ascent.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Gai Soleil
Built by a local farmer in 1823, the Hotel Gai Soleil became a family-run hotel around 1920. With a surge in climbers visiting the region, the Gai Soleil became a firm favourite with keen alpinists. Run by Valerie and David, they take immense pride in serving dishes created with local produce. In the warm summer evenings, dinner is often served in their peaceful garden.

DAY 3
Walk to Les Chapieux (or Refuge Mottets)

Begin the day by walking south from Les Contamines along the River Bonnant to the 17th-century church of Notre-Dame, which marks the start of the mountain path to Col du Bonhomme (2329m). The road gives way to a steep and roughly paved track, which climbs to Refuge La Balme (a very well-timed rest!). From here the, rocky path climbs over the Col du Bonhomme and onto Col de la Croix Bonhomme (2383m). If conditions (and legs) permit, there is an option to hike over the spectacular Col des Fours (2655m), before descending directly into La Vallee des Glacier and your overnight accommodation.

Trek to Les Chapieux: 18.5km
Ascent: 1350m
Descent: 950m

Trek via Col des Fours to Mottets: 19.5km
Ascent: 1600m
Descent: 900m

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Auberge de la Nova
A friendly auberge that provides a warm welcome to hikers. Serving up simple and delicious dishes, this accommodation is simple and offers comfortable private rooms with ensuites. On arrival, it’s worth grabbing a refreshing beer and kicking back to relax in the gardens before dinner.

Refuge Mottets
Located at the foot of the climb to Col de la Seigne, Refuge Mottets is a cosy mountain refuge, offering simple, private en-suite rooms. Included dinners are typically hearty dishes of beef bourguignonne and on occasion, the local staff play folk music during the evening. Staying at the Refuge Mottets is a wonderful, authentic mountain experience.

DAY 4
Walk to Courmayeur, Italy

From La Vallee des Glacier it’s a steady, well-carved track that winds up to Col de la Seigne (2513m). At the pass, straddle the border between France and Italy and soak up views from the southern side of the Mont Blanc massif where the landscape notably changes into dramatic, jagged peaks. On the descent into Courmayeur stop at Rifugio Elisabetta below the tumbling Glacier de la Lee Blanche for a sweet, panna cotta. Descending into Val Veni, you will leave the main route for around 2km to reach La Visaille for an onward bus journey to Courmayeur.

There is also an option to further extend this walk by ascending towards the ridge of Mont Favre and onto Col Checrouit where there are some of the best views of the Mont Blanc on all of the circuit (this section of the walk can always be completed the following day if you prefer).

Trek from Les Chapieux to La Visaille (bus onto Courmayeur)
Distance: 20km
Ascent: 970m
Descent: 850m
The distance can be reduced by 5km by taking the valley shuttle bus.

Trek from Refuge Mottets
Distance: 15km
Ascent: 900m
Descent: 850m

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crampon
Run by the Grivel Di Addario family, this 3* hotel is located in a quiet street just a few minute’s walk from the main centre. With a long heritage of mountaineers in the family, the hotel is well equipped to look after weary trekkers. A comfortable lounge, fireplace, a garden terrace and modest en-suite rooms all make for an enjoyable stay.

DAY 5
Optional Loop Walks from Courmayeur

Today you have the choice of exploring the chic mountain town of Courmayeur or complete one of the following walks:
The Balcony Route. Leave Courmayeur town on foot and ascend onto the steep forested slopes of La Montagne de la Saxe. After reaching Rifugio Bertone, follow the ‘Balcony Route’ which gives incredible unbroken views across the Val Ferret to Mont Blanc and Grand Jorasses. On reaching the Rifugio Walter Bonatti, pull up a bench on the picnic terrace and enjoy lunch before taking the short descent to the valley floor and returning to Courmayeur by bus (approx. 30mins).

Distance: 12.5km
Ascent: 1250m
Descent: 280m

La Visaille to Col Checrouit.
Return to La Visaille by bus and retrace your steps to Lac Combal. The trail then ascends to Arp Vielle and onto a magnificent balcony trail towards Col Checrouit. Across the valley, the enormity of the southern Mont Blanc mountain range is revealed. There are many great vantage points to soak mountain life, relax with a picnic and look out for Marmots. To make the most of your time on this trail, why not descend by chairlift directly to Courmayeur.

Distance: 16.5km
Ascent: 850m
Descent: 1300m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crampon

DAY 6
Onward Travel

Depending on your onward travel plans, you may have time to further explore the town of Courmayeur. Should you need to return to Chamonix, there is a regular bus service, or we can easily arrange a taxi transfer for you.

Meals included: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 5 nights accommodation in 3* hotels & auberges (simple hotels)
  • 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners
  • Maps, guidebook, GPX tracks and daily route summary
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Rest days can be added if you would like to further explore the region
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive tack notes and maps

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

During this tour, you will stay in 3* hotels, mountain auberges (small simple hotels) and/or a mountain refuge (in a private en-suite room). All the accommodations are accustomed to welcoming trekkers and are very well equipped to make your stay comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. Typically, rooms are quite 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.

Single Rooms
The alpine trekking season is very short and therefore accommodation is very busy. Single rooms may not always be possible in every overnight stay, very often single rooms are not available on night 3. We will endeavour to always try and meet your requirements. If you are travelling with family and/or friends and would like single rooms for your party, we would advise booking as soon as your plans are finalised to secure your rooming preferences.

Dining
You will be provided with 5 breakfasts and 2 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 many 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. The towns and villages you pass through are renowned for their speciality bread, 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.

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

This walk is available from early July through to late September.
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. 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

Moderate to Challenging – Tracks and trails on this tour will have prolonged ascents and descents, through sections of rough surface and steps. Having an active lifestyle and being an experienced walker makes the journey enjoyable. We would suggest an exercise regime of 3 to 4 times a week in addition to your usual weekly walks.

You will be walking around 20km 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 mountain towns and villages. It is also possible you may have to cross some snowy patches on the ascent or descent of higher mountain passes, so good mountain footwear is required!

Although the route is well waymarked for each of your walks, you will be provided with a guidebook, 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

This walk starts in Chamonix and ends in Courmayeur. The closest airport to the starting town of Chamonix is Geneva Airport.

Geneva Airport (or city) to Chamonix
There are a number of regular private bus transfer services to Chamonix Valley from Geneva Airport. We’d recommend Mountain Drop Offs. We will supply you with a discount code for you to pre-book your required transfers to and from Geneva Airport with Mountain Drop-Offs at the time of confirming your booking. If we can assist you with any private airport transfers required, we can easily arrange these for you.

Onward Travel From Courmayeur
If you wish to return to Chamonix for onward connections back to Geneva Airport there is a regular daily bus service from Courmayeur to Chamonix (the journey time is around 45 minutes). If you are travelling further south into Italy, a bus service connects Courmayeur to the town of Aosta where you can change for train services through to Milan and Turin.

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

INSURANCE

We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance for all of our trips. However, we require that for all travel overseas that you purchase a travel insurance policy, as we charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it. It is also important in the event of an accident or loss of property.  See our FAQ section for more information.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Jul 2022 - 11 Sep 2022
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2095

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $455

    SPEAK TO OFFICE BEFORE BOOKING

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jul 2023 - 5 Sep 2023
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $475
    BOOK NOW

SIMILAR TRIPS

Abel Tasman Walk End to End

Self-guided

Abel Tasman Great walk end to end. Stunning views over golden beaches, estuaries, coves & native forest. Unparalleled opportunities to swim.

 Self-guided 6 Days From $2355 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Abel Tasman Walk End to End

BACK What's Included
  • Full access to the Abel Tasman National Park and its beauty
  • 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodges including 4-star Awaroa lodge
  • Walk the entire track end to end pack free
  • A la carte meals at Awaroa Lodge including 2-course dinners
  • 5 breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches and 3 dinners
  • Comprehensive track notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
  • Enjoy the 26 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays

6 or 7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

Self-guided

Walk the world heritage listed Kumano Kodo in 4 longer days with or without a rest day. At night soak in onsens, stay in Japanese accommodation, savour traditional Japanese meals.

 Self-guided 6 or 7 Days From $2155 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

6 or 7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

BACK What's Included
  • Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 5 or 6 nights stay in an intimate family-run or smallish traditional Japanese lodgings with in-house onsens
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and  maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

Self-guided

Three Capes, Cape Hauy and  Cape Raoul, Waterfall Bay, Fortescue Bay and Port Arthur. Dramatic coastline of sea caves and towering sea stacks.

 Self-guided 4 Days From $1995 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

BACK What's Included
  • All transport including private transfers to and from Hobart
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 3 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef prepared restaurant meals
  • Cooked breakfasts and walker lunches
  • Auswalk guide pack including comprehensive walk notes, maps, lunch bag and container

Cape to Cape in Style Highlights

Self-guided

Hike the most beautiful sections of the Cape to Cape Track in the Margaret River region. Walk spectacular coastline, clifftops, rocky coves and idyllic bays.

 Self-guided 6 Days From $2055 Moderate What's Included

Cape to Cape in Style Highlights

BACK What's Included
  • 5 nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Bunker Bay, Caves House or Seashells and in Gnarabup and Margaret River in rooms with ensuites
  • Minimum of wasted time in vehicles being transferred
  • Private transfers from Margaret River and luggage transport so you can walk pack free
  • Chef-prepared cooked breakfasts, two-course a la carte dinners and substantial Walkers Lunches
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack and national park admission
  • 24/7 support from our driver and representatives on the ground
Overview

OVERVIEW

Trek the western route of Tour du Mont Blanc, hiking from Chamonix in France to the Italian mountain town of Courmayeur. This shortened version of one of the world’s classic alpine treks begins in the legendary adventurers’ town of Chamonix. From here, trek underneath the Bionnassay Glacier to the enchanting Refuge de Miage and onto the delightful town of Les Contamines in the Haute Savoie region, famous for its Reblochon cheese.

Hike to the Italian frontier via the Col de la Seigne (2515m) to be presented with dramatic, jagged peaks of the southern Mont Blanc Massif. Descend into Courmayeur where you can choose from two different walks that present incredible vistas of tumbling glaciers, snowy summits and forested valleys. In the evenings, stay in family-run hotels and chalets serving traditional dishes such as a beef stew with polenta, Beaufort cheese tart and of course, a large glass of red wine!

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Hike the westerly route of ‘Tour du Mont Blanc’ from Chamonix to Courmayeur
  • Explore the adventure capital of the Alps, Chamonix
  • Walk over the Col du Bonhomme (2329m) and enjoy far-reaching views of Lac de Roseland
  • Trek from France into Italy, crossing the Col de la Seigne (2515m)
  • Spend the evening in traditional alpine chalets and hotels
  • Trek the Val Ferret with majestic views of Mont Blanc (4808m) and Grandes Jorasses (4208m)
  • Each day, choose different routes to suit your needs
  • Private rooms and luggage transfers included

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.
PRICE FROM
$ 2095

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 455

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

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
Arrive Chamonix

Bustling with outdoor enthusiasts, the French Alpine town of Chamonix is only a 90-minute transfer from Geneva Airport. From the garden of your hotel, relax under the incredible Mont Blanc massif before further exploring the streets, pavement cafes and bars of this famous alpine town.

Accommodation: Hotel Oustalet
Run by the Durban sisters, Agnes and Veronique’s 3* hotel is a typical timber alpine chalet located in the heart of Chamonix. From their spacious garden, relax poolside with exceptional views of the Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc.

Meals included: None

DAY 2
Walk to Les Contamines

Today we’d suggest taking the cable car up to Bellevue (1802m) at the western end of the Chamonix Valley. From Bellevue you have a choice of two routes to Les Contamines; Hike over the Col du Tricot (2102m), under the shadow of the Bionnassay and Aiguille de Bionnassay glaciers and onwards to the picture-postcard Refuge de Miage (famed for their blueberry tart). Alternatively, trek through high alpine pastures and enchanting woodland via the hamlets of Bionnassay and Le Champel to the peaceful village of Les Contamines.

Trek via the Col du Tricot: 18km
Ascent: 1450m
Descent: 1250m

Trek via Bionnassay & Le Champel: 17km
Ascent: 1050m
Descent: 850m

By using the cable from Bellevue either walk is reduced by approx. 2 hours and around 700-800m of ascent.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Gai Soleil
Built by a local farmer in 1823, the Hotel Gai Soleil became a family-run hotel around 1920. With a surge in climbers visiting the region, the Gai Soleil became a firm favourite with keen alpinists. Run by Valerie and David, they take immense pride in serving dishes created with local produce. In the warm summer evenings, dinner is often served in their peaceful garden.

DAY 3
Walk to Les Chapieux (or Refuge Mottets)

Begin the day by walking south from Les Contamines along the River Bonnant to the 17th-century church of Notre-Dame, which marks the start of the mountain path to Col du Bonhomme (2329m). The road gives way to a steep and roughly paved track, which climbs to Refuge La Balme (a very well-timed rest!). From here the, rocky path climbs over the Col du Bonhomme and onto Col de la Croix Bonhomme (2383m). If conditions (and legs) permit, there is an option to hike over the spectacular Col des Fours (2655m), before descending directly into La Vallee des Glacier and your overnight accommodation.

Trek to Les Chapieux: 18.5km
Ascent: 1350m
Descent: 950m

Trek via Col des Fours to Mottets: 19.5km
Ascent: 1600m
Descent: 900m

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Auberge de la Nova
A friendly auberge that provides a warm welcome to hikers. Serving up simple and delicious dishes, this accommodation is simple and offers comfortable private rooms with ensuites. On arrival, it’s worth grabbing a refreshing beer and kicking back to relax in the gardens before dinner.

Refuge Mottets
Located at the foot of the climb to Col de la Seigne, Refuge Mottets is a cosy mountain refuge, offering simple, private en-suite rooms. Included dinners are typically hearty dishes of beef bourguignonne and on occasion, the local staff play folk music during the evening. Staying at the Refuge Mottets is a wonderful, authentic mountain experience.

DAY 4
Walk to Courmayeur, Italy

From La Vallee des Glacier it’s a steady, well-carved track that winds up to Col de la Seigne (2513m). At the pass, straddle the border between France and Italy and soak up views from the southern side of the Mont Blanc massif where the landscape notably changes into dramatic, jagged peaks. On the descent into Courmayeur stop at Rifugio Elisabetta below the tumbling Glacier de la Lee Blanche for a sweet, panna cotta. Descending into Val Veni, you will leave the main route for around 2km to reach La Visaille for an onward bus journey to Courmayeur.

There is also an option to further extend this walk by ascending towards the ridge of Mont Favre and onto Col Checrouit where there are some of the best views of the Mont Blanc on all of the circuit (this section of the walk can always be completed the following day if you prefer).

Trek from Les Chapieux to La Visaille (bus onto Courmayeur)
Distance: 20km
Ascent: 970m
Descent: 850m
The distance can be reduced by 5km by taking the valley shuttle bus.

Trek from Refuge Mottets
Distance: 15km
Ascent: 900m
Descent: 850m

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crampon
Run by the Grivel Di Addario family, this 3* hotel is located in a quiet street just a few minute’s walk from the main centre. With a long heritage of mountaineers in the family, the hotel is well equipped to look after weary trekkers. A comfortable lounge, fireplace, a garden terrace and modest en-suite rooms all make for an enjoyable stay.

DAY 5
Optional Loop Walks from Courmayeur

Today you have the choice of exploring the chic mountain town of Courmayeur or complete one of the following walks:
The Balcony Route. Leave Courmayeur town on foot and ascend onto the steep forested slopes of La Montagne de la Saxe. After reaching Rifugio Bertone, follow the ‘Balcony Route’ which gives incredible unbroken views across the Val Ferret to Mont Blanc and Grand Jorasses. On reaching the Rifugio Walter Bonatti, pull up a bench on the picnic terrace and enjoy lunch before taking the short descent to the valley floor and returning to Courmayeur by bus (approx. 30mins).

Distance: 12.5km
Ascent: 1250m
Descent: 280m

La Visaille to Col Checrouit.
Return to La Visaille by bus and retrace your steps to Lac Combal. The trail then ascends to Arp Vielle and onto a magnificent balcony trail towards Col Checrouit. Across the valley, the enormity of the southern Mont Blanc mountain range is revealed. There are many great vantage points to soak mountain life, relax with a picnic and look out for Marmots. To make the most of your time on this trail, why not descend by chairlift directly to Courmayeur.

Distance: 16.5km
Ascent: 850m
Descent: 1300m
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crampon

DAY 6
Onward Travel

Depending on your onward travel plans, you may have time to further explore the town of Courmayeur. Should you need to return to Chamonix, there is a regular bus service, or we can easily arrange a taxi transfer for you.

Meals included: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 5 nights accommodation in 3* hotels & auberges (simple hotels)
  • 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners
  • Maps, guidebook, GPX tracks and daily route summary
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Rest days can be added if you would like to further explore the region
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive tack notes and maps
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

During this tour, you will stay in 3* hotels, mountain auberges (small simple hotels) and/or a mountain refuge (in a private en-suite room). All the accommodations are accustomed to welcoming trekkers and are very well equipped to make your stay comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. Typically, rooms are quite 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.

Single Rooms
The alpine trekking season is very short and therefore accommodation is very busy. Single rooms may not always be possible in every overnight stay, very often single rooms are not available on night 3. We will endeavour to always try and meet your requirements. If you are travelling with family and/or friends and would like single rooms for your party, we would advise booking as soon as your plans are finalised to secure your rooming preferences.

Dining
You will be provided with 5 breakfasts and 2 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 many 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. The towns and villages you pass through are renowned for their speciality bread, 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.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

This walk is available from early July through to late September.
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. 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

Moderate to Challenging – Tracks and trails on this tour will have prolonged ascents and descents, through sections of rough surface and steps. Having an active lifestyle and being an experienced walker makes the journey enjoyable. We would suggest an exercise regime of 3 to 4 times a week in addition to your usual weekly walks.

You will be walking around 20km 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 mountain towns and villages. It is also possible you may have to cross some snowy patches on the ascent or descent of higher mountain passes, so good mountain footwear is required!

Although the route is well waymarked for each of your walks, you will be provided with a guidebook, 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

This walk starts in Chamonix and ends in Courmayeur. The closest airport to the starting town of Chamonix is Geneva Airport.

Geneva Airport (or city) to Chamonix
There are a number of regular private bus transfer services to Chamonix Valley from Geneva Airport. We’d recommend Mountain Drop Offs. We will supply you with a discount code for you to pre-book your required transfers to and from Geneva Airport with Mountain Drop-Offs at the time of confirming your booking. If we can assist you with any private airport transfers required, we can easily arrange these for you.

Onward Travel From Courmayeur
If you wish to return to Chamonix for onward connections back to Geneva Airport there is a regular daily bus service from Courmayeur to Chamonix (the journey time is around 45 minutes). If you are travelling further south into Italy, a bus service connects Courmayeur to the town of Aosta where you can change for train services through to Milan and Turin.

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

INSURANCE

We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance for all of our trips. However, we require that for all travel overseas that you purchase a travel insurance policy, as we charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it. It is also important in the event of an accident or loss of property.  See our FAQ section for more information.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Jul 2022 - 11 Sep 2022
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2095

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $455
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jul 2023 - 5 Sep 2023
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $475
    BOOK NOW
Similar Trips

SIMILAR TRIPS

Abel Tasman Walk End to End

Self-guided

Abel Tasman Great walk end to end. Stunning views over golden beaches, estuaries, coves & native forest. Unparalleled opportunities to swim.

 Self-guided 6 Days From $2355 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Abel Tasman Walk End to End

BACK What's Included
  • Full access to the Abel Tasman National Park and its beauty
  • 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodges including 4-star Awaroa lodge
  • Walk the entire track end to end pack free
  • A la carte meals at Awaroa Lodge including 2-course dinners
  • 5 breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches and 3 dinners
  • Comprehensive track notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
  • Enjoy the 26 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays

6 or 7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

Self-guided

Walk the world heritage listed Kumano Kodo in 4 longer days with or without a rest day. At night soak in onsens, stay in Japanese accommodation, savour traditional Japanese meals.

 Self-guided 6 or 7 Days From $2155 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

6 or 7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

BACK What's Included
  • Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 5 or 6 nights stay in an intimate family-run or smallish traditional Japanese lodgings with in-house onsens
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and  maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

Self-guided

Three Capes, Cape Hauy and  Cape Raoul, Waterfall Bay, Fortescue Bay and Port Arthur. Dramatic coastline of sea caves and towering sea stacks.

 Self-guided 4 Days From $1995 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

BACK What's Included
  • All transport including private transfers to and from Hobart
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 3 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef prepared restaurant meals
  • Cooked breakfasts and walker lunches
  • Auswalk guide pack including comprehensive walk notes, maps, lunch bag and container

Cape to Cape in Style Highlights

Self-guided

Hike the most beautiful sections of the Cape to Cape Track in the Margaret River region. Walk spectacular coastline, clifftops, rocky coves and idyllic bays.

 Self-guided 6 Days From $2055 Moderate What's Included

Cape to Cape in Style Highlights

BACK What's Included
  • 5 nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Bunker Bay, Caves House or Seashells and in Gnarabup and Margaret River in rooms with ensuites
  • Minimum of wasted time in vehicles being transferred
  • Private transfers from Margaret River and luggage transport so you can walk pack free
  • Chef-prepared cooked breakfasts, two-course a la carte dinners and substantial Walkers Lunches
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack and national park admission
  • 24/7 support from our driver and representatives on the ground

blog

June 17, 2021

Winter Walks, a Great Excuse for Adventure

Read More
March 26, 2021

Best walks on the Three Capes & the Tasman Peninsula

Read More
February 25, 2021

A whole world on your doorstep, if you only go looking…

Read More
February 25, 2021

DANDENONG RANGES – KALISTA OR BELGRAVE TO SASSAFRAS

Read More
October 5, 2020

10 best iconic day walks in the world

Read More
December 17, 2019

12 OF THE BEST AUSTRALIAN DAY WALKS

Read More
December 17, 2019

The Evolution of Walking Holidays

Read More
November 18, 2019

The Great Ocean Walk & A Great Australian Story

Read More
November 18, 2019

The Tour Du Mont Blanc – Seven valleys, three countries, and a sense of the divine

Read More
October 2, 2019

The Cotswolds | England’s Living History

Read More

ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

Get in touch