Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Mont Blanc is set in the heart of the Alps and is often referred to as “the Roof of Europe”. As such, it is surrounded by other stunning peaks such as the famous Matterhorn, Aiguille du Midi, Grandes Jorasses and others that are well worth exploring. As it is a mountaineering epicenter, it is the ideal spot to practice different activities and sports including hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing in summer, and skiing and snowboarding in colder months. It is also a great place to acquire new skills with some of the guides and experts in the area.  Furthermore, the gorgeous alpine towns that surround Mont Blanc, such as Chamonix, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, and Courmayeur are vibrant, lively spots to enjoy recreation after an exhilarating day out in the mountains. The Mont Blanc hut system is also well set up, and provides great resting opportunities while hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc and also a perfect chance to share experiences with other adventurers.

The Tour du Mont Blanc goes through seven valleys and has many starting points. From France, the kick off is usually either from Les Houches in Chamonix, or Les Contamines in Montjoie Valley. On the Italian side, that starting point is in Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley. Otherwise, setting off from the Swiss towns of Champex and Martigny is also a possibility. Whichever the variant, it is an experience that will forever stay in the heart of the adventurers that dare to try it!

A World Famous Adventure

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most popular hiking challenges in the world, and for good reason. It circles the Mont Blanc massif and covers approximately 170 kilometres (110 mi). On this trail you will go from hut to hut through charming Italian, Swiss and French villages.

** Breathtaking Landscapes**

The snow capped peaks of the Alps have been a source of inspiration for many adventurers, authors and artists. The region is famous for its awe inspiring mountains, glaciers and lakes, all well worth catching sight of!

The Lively Mountaineering Environment

Mont Blanc is surrounded by 3 important alpine towns. Courmayeur is in the Aosta Valley in Italy; Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and Chamonix are in Haute-Savoie in France; and Champex is in Switzerland. All feature plenty of accommodation options, fabulous restaurants and a vibrant mountaineering environment.

The weather in Mont Blanc varies according to season and altitude. In the summer, which is hiking season, it usually only snows at altitudes higher than 3200 meters and overall, there tends to be good weather and warm temperatures. The warmest month of the year is July (average 16.2 °C in Chamonix), whereas the coldest is January (average -2.1°C in Chamonix). You can expect most rain in August and the least in April.

French and Italian

Euro

The average Tour du Mont Blanc takes around 11 days, although there are also shorter options. The circular route is usually walked in counter clockwise direction and covers seven valleys in the Mont Blanc massif. Longer stays will allow for better acclimatization, recovery and also the chance to enjoy the mountain environment or try some other activities in the area.

France (+33)/ Italy (+39)/ Switzerland (+41)

The ideal hiking season for the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) typically runs from mid-June to mid-September. July and August bring the warmest weather, long daylight hours, and fully open services—but also the largest crowds and higher prices. June and September are quieter alternatives, though they each come with specific considerations.

June: By mid-June, most trails are clear, though some high passes may still hold snowfields, requiring caution or detours. Expect lush, vibrant landscapes and lighter foot traffic, but be ready for occasional rain and wetter conditions.

July: This is one of the most picturesque months, with peak wildflower blooms and warm weather. It also marks the start of peak season—both trails and refuges become busy.

August: The height of the season. Weather is generally stable, and nearly all services are fully operational. However, this is also when the TMB is most crowded.

September: Cooler temperatures and golden autumn scenery make for excellent hiking and photography conditions. Trails are quieter, but the weather can be less predictable, with a higher chance of rain or sudden changes.

Crowds: For a quieter trek, aim for June or September.

Weather: July and August are the most reliable, though afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Snow conditions: Snowmelt varies yearly—check trail updates close to your trip.

Hut availability: Make reservations well in advance, particularly for July and August.

The total price of a Tour du Mont Blanc hike varies based on the route you select and the size of your group. Some guides specialize in small groups of up to two experienced hikers, while others lead larger groups of eight to ten people.

Costs also depend on whether the package includes lodging, meals, and transportation. Overall, guided hikes on the Tour du Mont Blanc range roughly from €650–€1,250 at the lower end to around €4,670 at the higher end, with several options in between.

Accommodation and camping around Mont Blanc range from simple mountain huts to comfortable hotels, gîtes, and well-equipped campsites. Along the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), hikers will find a wide variety of options to suit different budgets and comfort levels.

Mountain Huts (Refuges): These remote, dormitory-style lodges provide basic shelter and are popular among hikers. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak season. Notable examples include Refuge Nant Borrant, Refuge de la Balme, and Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme.

Hotels and Gîtes: Located mainly in villages or towns along the TMB, these provide private rooms and added amenities such as breakfast. Popular stops include Hotel Belvedere in Champex-Lac and Auberge Mont Blanc in Trient.

Gîtes d’Étape: Similar to gîtes, these accommodations specifically cater to trekkers and offer either dormitory-style or private rooms.

Designated Campsites: Well-maintained campsites are scattered along the TMB, equipped with facilities like showers, restrooms, and occasionally restaurants. Examples include Camping Les Glaciers in La Fouly, Camping des Rocailles in Champex, and Camping Bellevue in Les Houches.

Wild Camping (Bivouacking): In some areas, wild camping is allowed, though hikers must verify local rules and follow Leave No Trace practices. Certain locations even have designated bivouac spots near refuges.

Camping near Hotel du Col de la Forclaz: This site, located behind the hotel, is a convenient choice for trekkers tackling the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant.

Reserve early: During the busy season, securing your stay well ahead of time is essential, particularly for mountain huts and sought-after hotels.

Match your budget: Costs can vary widely between refuges, gîtes, and hotels, so choose options that fit your price range.

Look for key amenities: Decide which features matter most—hot showers, laundry services, or on-site dining—and pick accordingly.

Evaluate location: Choose accommodations conveniently situated along your planned route and aligned with the type of experience you want.

The Tour du Mont Blanc most commonly begins in Les Houches, France, continuing through Les Contamines, crossing into Italy via Col de la Seigne, then into Switzerland via Grand Col Ferret, before looping back into France through Champex-Lac and returning to Les Houches.

Some hikers choose to start in Champex-Lac (Switzerland), traveling through Italy before finishing in France. Though less common, this direction is still viable.

Popular start/end points:

Les Houches (France): A frequent choice thanks to its easy access and closeness to Chamonix.

Chamonix (France): Not directly on the main trail, but easily reached using the Plan Praz gondola.

Courmayeur (Italy): A practical start or finish option that helps avoid the weekend rush from Chamonix.

Champex-Lac (Switzerland): A scenic starting point set on a picturesque alpine lake.

Difficulty: The TMB is a challenging trek, with significant elevation changes. While the main route is well-maintained, hikers can choose easier or more difficult variants.

Direction: Both clockwise and counter-clockwise routes offer unique experiences. The counter-clockwise route often has a steeper initial ascent, while the clockwise route provides a more gradual ascent.

Time: The full TMB loop typically takes 7-12 days, with shorter variations available.

Variants: Exploring variants like the Col de Tricot trail, Col des Fours trail, or Val Ferret variant, can offer unique scenery and solitude but often involve more challenging terrain.

Customization: Hikers can personalize their TMB experience by choosing different starting points, directions, and variant routes to suit their fitness level and preferences.

This will largely depend on your chosen route and, most importantly, how long you’ll be on the trail. However, as a general guideline, you should pack:

Lightweight hiking gloves

Sunglasses, a cap or hat, plus sunscreen and lip balm

An insulating layer to stay warm

Durable hiking pants

A rain cover

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots

Swimwear

The most common way to reach Mont Blanc is by traveling to Chamonix, France, which serves as the main gateway. Most visitors fly into Geneva International Airport, then continue by bus, shuttle, taxi, train, or car to Chamonix, located about 88 km away. Other airports such as Lyon or Haute-Savoie Mont Blanc (Annecy), are also options.

By Air

Geneva Airport (GVA): Closest international hub, around 1.5 hours from Chamonix.

Other airports: Lyon (LYS) or Haute-Savoie Mont Blanc Airport (Annecy).

Transfers: Frequent buses, shuttles, or taxis from Geneva, which can be booked in advance.

By Train

Geneva to Chamonix: Train service is available but may require a change at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet.

Other routes: Consider connections through Martigny (Switzerland) or St. Gervais-le Fayet (France).

By Road

From France: Use the Autoroute Blanche (A40).

From Italy: Cross via the Mont Blanc Tunnel (note possible closures, especially in June or September).

From Switzerland: Access via the Col des Montets.

Once in Chamonix

Aiguille du Midi: Take a cable car up to this famous peak in the Mont Blanc massif.

Montenvers Railway: Ride the cog railway to visit the Mer de Glace glacier.

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a demanding yet immensely rewarding multi-day trek encircling the Mont Blanc massif and crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland. The route traverses a variety of landscapes—from flower-filled alpine meadows and shady forests to dramatic granite peaks and glaciers. Although the trail does not require technical mountaineering skills, it does call for solid physical fitness, stamina, and prior hiking experience.

What to Expect on the TMB:

Terrain: The route features constant ascents and descents, rocky paths, and several high mountain passes. There are no glacier crossings or technical climbs, but hikers may encounter steep sections equipped with metal ladders or steps to provide assistance, as noted by Alpine Exploratory.

Physical Demands: Expect long hiking days of 6–8 hours with significant daily elevation gain. Training in advance—through regular hikes and endurance-building activities—is highly recommended.

Scenery: The TMB showcases the full grandeur of the Mont Blanc range: glacier-clad peaks, vibrant meadows, and tranquil forests. Each day reveals new panoramas, making the journey as visually diverse as it is physically challenging.

Logistics: The trek can be completed self-guided or with a guided tour. Guided options provide the convenience of pre-booked lodging and luggage transfers, while self-guided hikers must organize accommodations, meals, and other logistics on their own.

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek passes through several towns and villages, including Chamonix and Courmayeur, which are major hubs. Other notable locations are Les Houches, Les Contamines, Champex, and various smaller hamlets and refuges.

Major Towns:

Chamonix (France): A renowned mountaineering center and a popular starting or ending point for the TMB.

Courmayeur (Italy): The Italian gateway to Mont Blanc, offering a range of accommodation and services.

Smaller Towns and Villages:

Les Houches (France): Located near Chamonix and often considered the traditional start or end point of the classic TMB route, according to FlashpackerConnect.

Les Contamines (France): A charming village with fewer facilities than Chamonix but with a quieter atmosphere.

Champex (Switzerland): A picturesque village with a beautiful lake, known for its cafes and charming atmosphere.