> Trek through France, Italy, and Switzerland
> Enjoy beautiful views
> Complete the Tour du Mont Blanc in 9 days
This hike is one of the most famous in Europe and traditionally crosses 3 countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. The famous Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170-kilometer long circuit, which encircles the Mont Blanc massif and has 10 kilometers of ascent/descent.
Our 9-day trek also starts in Chamonix and is similar to our 10-day Tour du Mont Blanc. During our little faster package, you have a more challenging program but also a stay in a hotel in Courmayeur after completing the Western Tour du Mont Blanc. Along the way, you spend the nights in French, Italian and Swiss mountain huts. There you will meet other hikers and enjoy delicious local dishes. During this 9-day adventure, you'll enjoy magnificent views of the mountains, snow-capped peaks and small picturesque mountain villages. You don't have to worry about the logistics of reserving the huts. We'll take care of that for you, so all you have to do is enjoy this unforgettable adventure.
Please note that the sample itinerary below is subject to change, as we partner with a wide range of mountain huts to ensure your trip goes ahead seamlessly. Availability may vary, but our flexibility in working with multiple refuges helps us deliver the best possible experience for you.
Today, you should have a good breakfast, because one of the great climbs of the Tour, the Col Ferret, awaits you. First, you hike towards Rifugio Bonatti, named after the legendary climber. From here, it takes about 3 hours to cross the col and reach the Swiss Val Ferret. The view of the Grand Combin is breathtaking. You will spend the night in Gîte Alpage de La Peule, just before you descend to La Fouly.
Important: If you're planning to tackle Col Ferret today, you can save some energy by taking the bus to Arp Nouvaz Cap. Buses depart hourly from Courmayeur, making it a convenient option for a more comfortable start to the climb. If you opt for public transport, follow Route Option 2.
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 popular excursion among visitors to Chamonix. Shortly after passing through Tré-le-Champ, the route takes you to the Chésérys Ladders—a fun but exposed section that features several ladders and adds a touch of adventure to the hike. Once past this thrilling part, you’ll continue on to Lac Blanc, where breathtaking views await. This is often considered one of the most memorable moments of the entire trek. You can stop for lunch at the Lac Blanc refuge before continuing along the final stretch to the Planpraz cable car, where you’ll take the gondola down to Chamonix. If you’d prefer to shorten this stage, you can take the cable car down from Refuge de La Flégère instead. 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.
