Full Tour du Mont Blanc (Comfort)

After a hearty breakfast, you take the shuttle back into the mountains, making for a gentle start to the day. You can ride the shuttle all the way to Refuge des Mottets, reducing the initial ascent and beginning your hike from this scenic mountain hut. From here, a gradual climb leads you to Col de la Seigne, the natural border between France and Italy, offering breathtaking yet manageable views. As you enter Italy, you’ll pass Lake Combal, a perfect spot to pause and admire the southern face of Mont Blanc. The route continues with spectacular views of the Miage and Brenva glaciers and the impressive Peuterey peaks, creating a truly memorable experience. As you approach Courmayeur, you have the option to either walk the final stretch from Rifugio Maison Vieille or take the cable car down, ensuring a smooth and comfortable arrival in this beautiful Italian town.

Note: The cable car down to Courmayeur closes at 5 pm. Make sure you arrive before that time. Otherwise, you can continue to Courmayeur on foot.

Your day begins with a hearty breakfast, gearing you up for one of the most spectacular ascents of the Tour: the Col Ferret. To make the start of your hike a little easier, consider taking the bus to Arp Nouvaz Cap. Buses depart hourly from Courmayeur, offering a smooth and energy-saving shortcut.

If you prefer a more scenic and gradual approach, hop off a few stops earlier and hike via Lavachey and Refuge Walter Bonatti. This detour not only adds variety but also gives you a preview of the alpine charm to come. From here, you’re just a stone’s throw from the start of the Col Ferret trail—one of the absolute highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Start the day by passing Gîte Bon Abri. From Plan de l’Au, the trail climbs steadily through forests and meadows to the Alpage de Bovine. After a short break among the grazing cows, continue uphill to the Col de Portalo, the highest point of the day, with stunning views over the Martigny Valley.

Begin your descent through forest paths and open terrain until you reach the Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz. From here, it’s just one final downhill stretch to the village of Trient.

The so-called Southern Balcony is a well known excursion for all visitors to Chamonix, but we will take it from La Tête aux Vents. The climb includes sections with ladders and at the end you will enjoy the view from Lac Blanc, one of the most beautiful memories of the trek. You can stop for lunch at the Lac Blanc Refuge before tackling the final stretch to the Planpraz cable car. From there, you can take the cable car to Chamonix. To shorten this stage, you also have the option of descending by cable car from the Refuge de La Flégère. Spend your afternoon exploring Chamonix, and in the evening, enjoy a traditional Savoyard dinner to end your day in style.

Note: The chairlift down to Chamonix stops operating at 5:00 PM. Make sure to plan your descent accordingly.