Mont Blanc Classic

A trek around the highest peak in the European Alps where spectacular alpine scenery combines with the charm of French, Swiss and Italian mountain villages.

This historic itinerary takes you across passes, around enormous glaciers and via stunning lakes to take in some of the best viewpoints in the Alps. Meadows crossed by clear melt water streams lead you downwards to green pastures where shepherds will sell their Beaufort cheese to you fresh!

Mountain refuges and charming gîtes provide a relaxing respite at the end of your day's trek. This journey is for experienced alpine walkers - providing an enthralling alpine adventure with unsurpassed views.

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Itinerary / Highlights

DAY 1 Arrive in Le Tour begin walk to Trient & 4.5-5.5 hours /894m

Leaving from the village of Le Tour you take the scenic high mountain path of Balme heading towards Switzerland. Weather permitting you will be able to take some wonderful photos of the Mont Blanc chain including the impressive “La Verte”, the Drus and the Needles of Chamonix. You will cross the border between France and Switzerland before making your way down to the village of Trient for overnight accommodation.

DAY 2 Walk to Champex & 5.5 or 6.5 hours/776m or 1368m

There are two alternative routes between Trient and Champex. The first is via the Mountain of Bovine which involves crossing the Forclaz Pass (1527m) where there are beautiful lake views. The other, is The “Fenêtre d'Arpette” (2665m) route, which is a variant on the Tour du Mont Blanc and is quite challenging. In adverse weather conditions this pass is not recommended. The trail, is not as well defined as the lower route but as with many pass crossings, the rewards on a good weather day are the extraordinary views to the Trient Glacier. The descent to Champex is steep though you will have the opportunity to have a hot shower at your lodge.

DAY 3 To La Fouly & 5.5 hours /454m

Although this is most definitely an easier day, it is also one that highlights some amazing natural beauty. Dry meadows, pools of fresh water, herds of cows and wonderful chalets surrounded by flower filled gardens abound. Swiss village life is all around and the lower valleys at the base of the Mont Blanc Massif provide a contrast to the high alpine meadows of the previous and following days. A further highlight of the day is the wonderful “Valais des hommes” and the beautiful mountain views at La Fouly. Overnight: La Fouly.

DAY 4 To Elena & 5-5.5 hours / 1028m

The route takes you out of Switzerland and into Italy by the Grand Col Ferret (2537m) pass. It's a steady climb and at the Col you will be awe inspired by the sweeping views of the Pre de Bar glacier. After some time drinking in the panorama you can amble down the steep track to your overnight refuge accommodation which is located at the base of the glacier and thus provides a great opportunity to witness it under
changing light. Overnight Refuge

DAY 5 To Elisabetta Refuge & 6-6.5 hours / 1400m

Descend from Elena Refuge to Arp Nouvaz (or Arunuva), from where you take an hour long bus trip to Courmayeur. Nestled at the end of Italy's Aosta Valley it is an atmospheric town which is worthy of some light exploration and a good place to taste the renowned and delicious Italian gelato. If the weather is good, you can continue on foot from Courmayeur toward Elisabetta Refuge by crossing the Checroui Pass (2185m), otherwise, a short bus ride on from Courmayeur will drop you at La Visaille from where you can walk up to the enchanting valley where the enormous Miage glacier flows down into Lake Combal. On the Italian side of Mont Blanc, one gains a completely different perspective of the highest peak in the European Alps.

DAY 6 Walk to Chapieux & 4-5 hours /400m

You make your way over the Col de La Seigne mountain path, which is overhung by limestone pyramids and the Estelette Glacier, until you reach France. The trail then descends across the high mountain pastures to the City of the Glaciers. Today also provides an excellent opportunity to buy Beaufort cheese from the local farmers.

DAY 7 Walk to Notre Dame de La Gorge & 6-7 hours /930m

This mornings walk takes you up mountain pastures to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2483m) where there are brilliant views southeast to the peaks of the Vanoise. The trail continues down to the Col du Bonhomme (2329m) and crosses the Contamines Natural Reserve. A sharp descent through a pine forest fringed gorge takes you to an ancient Roman Road and the church of Notre Dame de la Gorge, where there is a bus or taxi service to Le Fayet and Chamonix.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

6 nights accommodation in mountain refuges/gîte-hostels in dormitories (upgrade to double room available - surcharge applies)

Departure Dates, Options & Prices

Every Saturday and Sunday from 18 Jun to 18 Sep

0800 0744 135