alpes-italiennes-grand-paradiso-national-park-hike

Self-guided

Hiking

lvl. 4
Mon Roadbook App
Mountain Hut with dorms
Multi-day hike
Réf : E3G8
8 days from 970 € Book / Enquire

Our trip

  • Hike the entire time through Gran Paradiso National Park.

  • Italian hospitality to its fullest from one mountain hut to another.

  • Enjoy amazing views of Mt. Blanc, the Matterhorn, and Mt. Rose.

  • Experience an adrenaline-filled trekking adventure as you cross spectacular mountain passes rising over 3000 meters in altitude.

  • Taste the flavors of Italian local cuisine, including its famous "fontina".

    "Mon Roadbook" app is available for this trip.
    More info >>

    The mountain itself, Gran Paradiso Peak, rises to a lofty 4061 meters elevation, and is as strikingly beautiful as Mt. Blanc or the Matterhorn, its high-altitude neighbors to the north and northeast. The peak marks the high point of southern half of Aosta Valley and the sub range that bears its name. The area's well-preserved mountain valleys provide access to Europe's very first national park (created in 1922), and a genuine sanctuary (and savior) for the alpine ibex. Marvel in every moment you spend hiking through the park's beautifully stunning terrain carved to perfection by glaciers past and present.

    Your travel options

    Mountain Hut with dorms From july to september

    Mountain Hut with dorms From july to september

    Without luggage transfer From 970 €* Book / Enquire Devis
    With luggage transfer From 1320 €* Book / Enquire Devis

    * Minimum price for the current season, subject to availability based on 4 participants. (Price incl. VAT)

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    Itinerary

    Level 4: An average of 6 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails or off trail, and/or 700 to 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances of 15 to 18 kilometers.

    Hiking : a relatively accessible activity, hiking offers the opportunity to explore a country or a region up close, on foot, and to meet and mingle with the locals. On a traverse or loop, whatever your skill level, embark on one of our through-hikes to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the great outdoors.
    Mon Roadbook app: designed for the self-guided trips, "Mon Roadbook" travel assistant guides you throughout your journey via a mobile application to download on your smartphone.
    Duration : 8 days
    Luggage transfers : 2 options: with or without luggage transfer
    Lodging : Mountain Hut, Hotel
    Guiding : Self-guided
    Group : Minimum 2 persons
    Season : From july to september

    Day by day

    Day 1

    Welcome in Italy!

    Lodging : hotel. Meals not included.

    After a journey through the mountains, you arrive in Aosta, the capital of the Aosta Valley. Majestic landscapes welcome you, immersing you immediately in the atmosphere of the Alps. You then head to your hotel to check in. Once settled, you have the option to relax quietly in your room or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of the town, discovering its charm and his Roman history. This first day, calm and pleasant, is the perfect opportunity to acclimatize before starting, the next day, your six-day trekking adventure through the stunning landscapes of the region.

    Day 2

    From Aosta to Savoia hut via Valsavarenche valley

    Distance : 8 km (5 mi) - Ascent : 600 m to 1000 m (1,968 ft to 3,280 ft). Descent : 0 to 400 m (0 to 1,312 ft). 2,5 hrs or 4,5 hrs of hiking.
    Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : 1 hour.

    Short morning transfer with the local buses from Aosta to the starting point of your hike in Valsavarenche valley. Start the day's hike from the trailhead in Pont, located at the end of the road that leads up Valsavarenche Valley. 

    For today's hike, you have two options:

    - The first option and longer hike starts in Pont (1,994 m / 6,542 ft), on the trail that climbs to Grand Collet Pass (2,832 m / 9,291 ft). During the uphill effort and when you arrive at the pass, enjoy spectacular views of legendary Gran Paradiso peak. On the other side of the pass, descend into Nivolet Valley to link up with the trail that leads to the Savoia hut (2,533 m / 8,310 ft).

    - The second and shorter option still starts in Pont (1,994 m / 6,542 ft), on a trail that climbs straight to Roley/Arolley Cross (2,313 m / 7,588 ft) where you will enjoy breathtaking, up-close, and personal views of legendary Gran Paradiso Peak. From here, continue slowly but surely up the valley along Nivolet Creek until you reach your accommodations for the night.

    Day 3

    From Savoia hut to Benevolo hut via Col Rosset pass

    Distance : 10 km (6.5 mi) - Ascent : 600 m (1,968 ft). Descent : 830 m (2,723 ft). 4,5 hrs of hiking.
    Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.

    This morning, Gran Paradiso Peak behind you. Follow the trail (and animal tracks) through the area's serene alpine meadows, with lakes scattered here and there, and then through a snowfield or two until you reach Col Rosset Pass (3,023m/9,918ft). This is the week's first mountain pass above 3000m! Enjoy the descent into Val di Rhêmes, as well as dinner and spending the night in the Benevolo Hut (2,287m/7,503ft). If you're lucky, the hut managers will offer you a cup of "Aostan coffee."

    Day 4

    From Benevolo hut to Mario Bezzi hut via Bassac Déré pass

    Distance : 10 km (6.5 mi) - Ascent : 800 m (2,625 ft). Descent : 800 m (2,625 ft). 4,5 hrs of hiking.
    Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.

    After leaving the hut, the trail passes through a rocky bottleneck on your way to glacier-formed Golette Lake, which reflects in its waters the seracs and glacier looming above. Make one last effort on the climb to Col Bassac-Déré Pass (3,082 m / 10,111 ft) and take full advantage of your high perch to soak in the views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The descent on the other side of the pass takes you right along the edge of the Glairetta Glacier and then to Mario Bezzi Hut (2,240 m / 7,349 ft), where you will spend the night.

    Day 5

    From Mario Bezzi to L'Epée hut

    Distance : 9.5 km (6 mi) - Ascent : 720 m (2,362 ft). Descent : 700 m (2,296 ft). 4,5 hrs of hiking.
    Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
    No high-altitude passes to cross today, instead walk along a spectacular balcony traverse above Valgrisenche Valley. Stroll through meadows and pastures, as well as rocky alpine terrain scattered with small lakes and creeks fed by the summer's glacier meltwater. You are now in the heart of where Aosta Valley's world-famous fontina cheese is made. All throughout the day, enjoy views of Ruitor Peak, whose summit offers one of the most spectacular vistas in the Alps. The warm and welcoming Epée Hut (2,373 m / 7,785 ft) is the day's final destination.
    Day 6

    From L'Epée hut to Delle Marmotte hut via Col Fenêtre pass

    Distance : 9,5 km (5.9 mi) - Ascent : 900 m (2,950 ft). Descent : 1100 m (3,600 ft). 5,5 hrs of hiking.
    Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.

    Today is second high-alpine day of your trip. With key knowledge of the area and up-to-date information on current conditions, the Epée Hut manager will serve as an important resource to ensure success for the day's hike. The ascent to Col Fenêtre Pass (2,875 m / 9,432 ft) follows a well-marked, well-maintained trail, and the view of Gran Paradiso Peak once at the pass is simply fantastic! The descent to Rhêmes-Notre-Dames (1,717 m / 5,633 ft) follows a steeper, more committing, sometimes vertigo-inducing trail. A final effort brings you to the village of Rhêmes-Notre-Dame (1,723 m / 5,652 ft), where you can take a break before tackling the last ascent. Through a beautiful larch forest, you make your way up to the Entrelor alpine pastures, where the Delle Marmotte refuge (2,142 m / 7,027 ft) is located.

    Please note: if conditions at the beginning or end of the season prove too difficult or hazardous to safely make the descent to Breuil from Col Fenêtre Pass (2,875 m / 9,432 ft), from Epée hut, make the roundtrip up to and back from the pass. Then, from the hut, hike down into Valgrisenche Valley and take a local shuttle (at your expense) to Rhêmes-Notre-Dame. Then you'll be able to hike until Delle Marmotte Hut.
    Details of this variant can be found in your roadbook.

    Day 7

    From Delle Marmotte Hut to Pont and Aosta via Entrelor and Manteau pass

    Distance : 17 km (10.5 mi) - Ascent : 1150 m (3,770 ft). Descent : 1350 m (4,430 ft). 6,5 hrs of hiking.
    Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner. Transfer : around 45 min.
    A magnificent traverse with a gentle and varied profile, offering unforgettable viewpoints. You follow the stream through alpine pastures, gradually climbing to the Entrelor Pass (3,007 m / 9,865 ft) - the last pass over 3000 metres of your journey! A steady descent unfolds facing the Grand Paradis, leading you first to Lake Noir (2,670 m / 8,759 ft), then to the Djouan Lakes (2,516 m / 8,254 ft). You traverse across the slope to reach the Manteau Pass (2,790 m / 9,153 ft) and the nearby summit of Chandelly (2,809 m / 9,215 ft). The panorama is superb, with sweeping views of the Grand Paradis, the Combins, and the Grivola. The very pleasant descent takes you through the old alpine hamlets of Meyes, before an easy path leads you to Pont (Valsavarenche), the end point of your route in the Grand Paradis massif.
    Transfer by public bus back to Aosta.

    Optional: climb Gran Paradiso Peak (4,061 m/13,323 ft)
    You have the option of prolonging your trip by two days to climb Gran Paradiso Peak with a high-mountain guide. Enjoy the company, guidance, and instruction of a state-certified high-mountain guide for a group of one to four people. Go to the "Extra" section and do not hesitate to ask us.

    Day 8

    Bye-bye Gran Paradis !

    Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
    Enjoy your last breakfast before checking out. Take the time to explore Chamonix before heading off.

    If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay near Aosta, Courmayeur, Chamonix, Geneva or elsewhere it's essential to book your accommodation in advance. We can arrange one or more extra nights at one of our partner hotels. Just ask !

    The active times are given as an indication and may vary depending on several elements (eg. weather conditions, terrain, etc.). Transfer times may also vary depending on road and traffic conditions. If necessary (eg: weather conditions, decision of local authorities, etc.), we may also be required to adapt the program for the smooth running of your trip and in the interest of the participants.

    Pricing

    Prices (incl. taxes) from july to september 2026

    Mountain Hut with dorms
    Price per person    		Without luggage transferWith luggage transfer
    Single seasonSingle season
    2 people1 shared room1060 €1690 €
    3 people1 shared room1050 €1460 €
    4 people1 shared room1040 €1350 €
    5 people1 shared room1030 €1280 €
    6 people1 shared room1030 €1240 €
    • Single season : From 01 July 2026 to 20 September 2026

    Pricing

    The price includes / does not include

    The price include:

    • Accommodations as described (hotels and mainly mountain huts).
    • Transportation of your bag (if you choose this option).
    • Meals: 7 breakfasts and 5 dinners (on your own in Aosta).
    • The roadbook (as well as a map and reservation vouchers) for a 2 to 4 person group.
    • Access to the new mobile phone application (including GPS guidance).
    • In case of emergency, a 24/7 telephone service in English.

    The price does not include:

    • Transportation to the meeting point at the start of the trip and from the point where the trip officially ends.
    • Dinners in Aosta (day 1 and day 7).
    • Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
    • For reservations made less than 15 days before the start, all additional fees for priority processing.
    • Anything that is not specified in the "included in the price" list. 

    Other expenses:

    • Lunches: at huts for your picnic lunches (about 10 to 12€ each day)
    • The optional "climbing Gran Paradiso Peak (4061m)" after the end of your official trip.
    • Public transportation during the tour:

    - The local bus transfer between Aosta and Pont (start of the hike), approximately €8 (cash).
    - The optional local bus transfer between Valgrisenche and Rhêmes-Notre-Dame if conditions make Col Fenêtre Pass too dangerous to cross on foot, approximately €12 (cash).
    - The local bus transfer between Pont or Eaux-Rousses (end of the hike) and Aosta, approximately €8 (cash).

    Currencies

    France and Italy are part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
    Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.

    Access

    Access

    This trip starts and ends in Aosta, capital of the Aosta Valley. The nearest airport for this trip is Turin (TRN). Aosta can also be easily reach from Malpensa Airport near Milano (MXP) and Geneva airport (GVA).

    • From Turin airport:

    You can take a train from the airport station (Turin Porta Susa station or Turin Porta Nuova station) to Aosta. The journey takes about 1.5 hours by train (with a direct train), or around 2.5 hours with a connection with Trenitalia company.

    You can either take a bus from the airport to the stop Turin Vittorio Emmanuel (local bus), then a Flixbus for an about 1.5 hour journey to Aosta (about 8€).

    • From Milano Malpensa airport:

    You can take a train from the airport station to Aosta. The journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours with at least two connection with Trenitalia company.

    You can also take a bus but it will be a slower option. FlixBus also offers a route between Milan and Aosta. The journey takes about 5 hours, and ticket prices start at around €20.

    • From Geneva airport:
    Connections between Geneva Airport (GVA) and Aosta are not always straightforward, and travel times can be relatively long, around 8 hours. If you want to make your journey more enjoyable and have a bit more time to explore the region, we recommend passing through Geneva and spending a few nights in Chamonix before continuing on to Aosta. This will give you the chance to explore this beautiful mountain village while also making your access to Aosta smoother, with a more relaxed and pleasant journey.
    Don't hesitate to ask us if you're interested by this option, it'll be a pleasure to help.
     
     
    If you prefer a more direct transfer (from Turin, Milan or Geneva), we can also book a private transfer for you, just ask our specialists. Depending on your preferences, we can arrange a transfer by private or shared taxi. Please let us know your flight schedule so that we can organize your transfer as early as possible and in the most suitable time slot. 

    During your trip

    Travel documents

    The following documents will be provided for this trip:
    • Mont Blanc Experience roadbook with hike descriptions and detailed itinerary maps.
    • A map for your hike (1/25 000; n°3 Valgrisenche, Val di Rhêmes, Valsavarenche.).
    • My Roadbook" travel assistant via our mobile application.
    • All documents required to organize your stay.

    Transfers

    You'll only need to arrange two transfers during the entire trip (at your own expenses). Rest assured, in the Aosta Valley, public transport is well organized, and all transfer information will be clearly provided in your roadbook.
    Once the trek begins, your feet will be your only mode of transport, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the scenery at every step.

    • Day 2 : local bus from Aosta to Pont, with one connection (in service between mid-June and mid-September).
    • Day 7 : local bus from Pont (or Eaux-Rousses) to Aosta, with one connection (in service between mid-June and mid-September).

    NB : at the start and/or end of the season, some public shuttles necessary for the tour are not operational. We will offer alternative solutions and give you taxi contacts in the roadbook.

    We draw your attention to the fact that wearing a seat belt is compulsory at the front and rear in all vehicles you use during the trip, when they are equipped with one, regardless of the regulations in effect in the country visited. By booking an Mont Blanc Experience trip, you agree to respect this obligation. Mont Blanc Experience cannot be held liable in the event of bodily injury(s) and/or material damage(s) if it turns out that this provision was not respected by you.

    Lodging

    On your first night and last night, you'll stay in a charming 3-star hotel in Aosta.

    From day 2 to day 6, you will stay in dormitories (often with bunk beds) within mountain huts and mountain inns, offering the warm and friendly atmosphere typical of the Alps. The size of the dormitories varies from one accommodation to another, and sleeping arrangements are usually organized by the hut warden, often on the morning of your arrival.
    In every hut, you will find a duvet (or blanket) and a pillow - Please, remember to bring your own towel, pillowcase and sleeping bag liner. Lightweight and space-saving, this accessory guarantees better hygiene, particularly in areas frequented by hikers during the summer months.

    Shared bathroom facilities with hot showers are generally located outside the dormitories.
    All accommodations have electricity.

    More details below :

    - Day 1 : Hotel in Aosta (Duc d'Aosta or similar). Double or twin room featuring a private bathroom.

    - Day 2: Savoia Hut. Overnight in dormitories for 2 to 5 people. Shared bathroom facilities, including hot showers, are located outside the room.
    Credit cards accepted. No Wi-Fi or mobile network available at the hut.
    No luggage transfer.

    - Day 3: Benevolo Hut. Overnight in dormitories for 4 to 14 beds. Shared bathroom facilities, including hot showers, are located outside the room. Hot showers available for an extra fee (approximately €3 for 3 minutes).
    Credit cards accepted. No Wi-Fi or mobile network available at the hut.

    - Day 4: Mario Bezzi Hut. Overnight in dormitories for 4 to 14 beds. Shared bathroom facilities, including hot showers (unlimited shower time), are located outside the room.
    Credit cards are not accepted. No Wi-Fi or mobile network available at the hut.
    No luggage transfer.

    - Day 5 : L'Épée Hut. Overnight in dormitories for 3 to 7 people. Shared bathroom facilities, including hot showers, are located outside the rooms. Hot showers available for an extra fee (approximately €2, with no time limit).
    Credit cards accepted. No Wi-Fi or mobile network available at the hut.

    - Day 6: Delle Marmotte Hut. Overnight in dormitories for 8 people. Shared bathroom facilities, including hot showers, are located outside the rooms. Hot showers available, weather permitting, as hot water is supplied by the hut's solar panels.
    Credit cards accepted. No Wi-Fi or mobile network available at the hut.
    No luggage transfer.

    - Day 7 : Hotel in Aosta (Duc d'Aosta or similar). Double or twin room featuring a private bathroom.

    Meals

    Our goal is to ensure that you eat well-balanced meals suited for the effort required each day, and to lighten your pack load as much as possible.

    Breakfast :
    The hotels offer a generous and varied buffet: pastries, fresh bread, homemade jams, fruit and cereals. Savory lovers will also find something to their liking, with a choice of breads, cheeses, ham and eggs.

    In mountain inns or huts, breakfasts are often simple: bread, butter, jam, coffee, tea and orange juice. If you need extra energy for your day's hiking, remember to pack dried fruit, cereal bars or other snacks.

    Dinners :
    In the hotels, dinner typically consists of a fixed three-course menu, including a starter, main course, and dessert.

    In mountain inns or huts, meals are convivial moments when you share the table with other hikers. These meals are a real highlight of the day, providing an opportunity to savor home-cooked meals while sharing with people from all over the world. Meals generally consist of a soup starter, followed by a meat-based main course with carbohydrates (pasta, rice, polenta, etc.), then cheese and dessert. If you wish, you can add a beer or glass of wine to your meal for an additional charge.

    If you have strict dietary constraints, we invite you to communicate them to us before departure, in your personal space.

    Dinners in Aosta (day 1 and day 7) are not included to give you all options in town and a dinner on your own.

    Lunches :
    As you are staying mainly in the mountains, we recommend that you order your picnic lunches upon arrival at the refuges, for around 15 euros per day. These packed lunch usually include one or two sandwiches, a fruit, a bottle of water and a cookie or chocolate bar.

    Drinks :
    Beverages are not included. Please pay for all drinks consumed on site before your departure, to avoid any additional charges after your stay.

    Luggage transfer

    Depending on the package you choose:

    - With luggage transfers included : your luggage is transported by vehicle and will be available every other evening:

    • Day 1: you arrive in Aosta with your luggage.
    • Day 2: your luggage will not be available at the Savoia Hut.
    • Day 3: you will find your luggage at the Benevolo Hut.
    • Day 4: your luggage will not be available at the Mario Bezzi Hut.
    • Day 5: you will find your luggage at the Epée Hut.
    • Day 6: your luggage will not be available at the Delle Marmotte Hut.
    • Day 7: you will find your luggage again in Aosta.
    - Without luggage transfers: plan to carry everything you need for the entire week on your back (pay attention to weight!). 

    Trails

    Well-marked itinerary, previously recognized by our guides. You are in charge of your route and must know how to read a map and use a compass. You also have precise directions in the "Mon Roadbook" app and in the paper roadbook that will be given to you before departure (maps, descriptive plan, specific information...). The "Mon Roadbook" app allows you to centralize all the necessary information for your trip:
    • The identification of service providers operating during your stay
    • GPS guidance on a map background
    • Photos of crossings
    • The various points of interest on the hike: natural or heritage.

    This application, included for this trip, must be downloaded before your departure and works offline (without network).
    To learn more, feel free to read our article: Mon Roadbook, your digital travel guide.

    For each stage, make sure you check the latest information on trail conditions; the manager at your accommodations should also be able to provide you with up-to-date information if you ask.

    Itineraries

    Our elevation gains are calculated based on altitude differences provided on maps, not by GPS, which, for technical reasons (GPS altitude inaccuracies + statistical dispersion), often give overestimated elevation gains, sometimes by up to 20%. 
     
    The trails
    Trekking trails vary from wide, road-like avenues to narrow, slippery paths built out over drops. Be especially careful not to move while looking through the viewfinder of your camera!

    What you need to know

    Be prepared for the weather:
    The weather in mountains can change very quickly. the weather forecast is quite accurate for the next 3 upcoming days, but not that much further. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon when the weather is hot, they are very located and show up very quickly. Wake up earlier in the morning when the weather forecast announces it, you will have crossed the high pass before it starts. Passes and ridge are not safe is the case of thunder. Take advice from your host the day before.

    Considering the Environment:
    While trekking you have to be careful not to destroy the environment you are enjoying so much. It is not only for your enjoyment, but people and wildlife also rely on this environment.

    Here are some simple tips:

    • Pick up any litter along the trail,
    • Burn all your toilet paper and bury your faeces, make sure you go at least 50m away from any water source,
    • Drink tap water instead of mineral water as plastic bottles are an unnecessary waste,
    • Stick to the trails to prevent erosion and damage to fragile alpine flora,
    • Ensure all rubbish is packed and bring them back down to the villages.

    Insurance :
    All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers medical and emergency evacuation at a minimum. You will of course also want cover for loss or damage to personal effects, flight or trip cancellation etc. Please ask us for advice.

    Final tips!

    • To ensure that you have the best time possible, please respect local traditions, customs, values and the environment.
    • Respect privacy when taking photographs.
    • Your attempts at speaking some French or Italian will open hearts and break the ice!
    • Protect the natural environment, see above.

    Activities

    Climbing Gran Paradiso Peak (4,061 m / 13,323 ft):

    You have the option of extending your stay two additional days to climb Gran Paradiso Peak with a high-mountain guide. At the end of your trek (Day 7), continue on your way to the Tetras-Lyre Hut, just a fifteen-minute walk from the parking lot in Pont. You will eat dinner and spend the night there.

    Day 1 / Tetras-Lyre Hut - Vittorio-Emanuele II Hut
    The climb to Vittorio-Emanuele-II Hut (2735 m) follows a well-marked and well-maintained trail. The hut serves as the main base camp for people climbing the standard route up Gran Paradiso Peak. Enjoy the typical warm, welcoming, and often festive Italian atmosphere at the hut. Meet your guide here. He or she will take the time to explain the gear you will use, in addition to the basic safety and orienteering techniques needed for summer mountaineering. Eat dinner and spend the night in the hut.
    Approach hike: 2.5 hours. Vertical gain: 750m.

    Day 2 / Vittorio-Emanuele II Hut - summit of Gran Paradiso Peak
    Rise before dawn. With as light a pack on your back as possible, start by headlamp on your way to climbing to the summit of Gran Paradiso Peak (4061m)! A line of headlamps will likely light the way up the peak's standard route, which ascends a relatively easy glacier to a saddle just below the summit. From there, a short bit of climbing along a rocky ridge takes to you the summit proper and its legendary statue of the Virgin Mary. Your descent back down to the valley takes the same route and trail. Say goodbye to your guide at the end of the afternoon.
    Hiking time: 7 to 9 hours. Vertical gain: 1300m. Vertical drop: 2100m.

    Do not hesitate to ask us if you're interested.

    Required before leaving

    Health

    Some tips for staying healthy:
    Tap water is mostly good for drinking all other the Alps. Unless notified as not, you can consider it as drinkable. Even if they are recyclable we request you consider the waste impact of your bottles.
    Your hands are perhaps your biggest enemy in terms of your health as they get very dirty during the day. Wash your hands before every meal or snack. People often think they get sick from the food, but it's far more likely they forgot to wash their hands!

    During the trek, don't try to overpass your strength and walk too high, too quickly! Keep a regular pace and take time to enjoy the view while walking.
    Listen to your guide and take their advice as they are trained to look after your safety.

    If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us when booking your trek so that we can cater for you. Note: sometimes not all dietary requirements are able to be met, but please inform us and we will certainly do our best! 

    Recommended vaccinations

    Please check to make sure that all your vaccinations are current: DPT, whooping cough, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B.

    Dentist and general physician

    We recommend a checkup with both before leaving on your trip.

    Getting ready

    Physical fitness level 4

    To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking at least once per week (around 15km to 18km) on a trail with considerable vertical gain (350m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity to build endurance.

    Your first aid kit

    For the medication and pain relievers listed below, we recommend that you check with your doctor beforehand, adding what you need based on personal requirements and the specificities of your trip.

    • An analgesic.
    • An anti-inflammatory (pills or gels).
    • An anti-diarrheal tablets
    • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips,

    Gear list

    What we supply for your trek:

    We provide 1 set for every 4 participants, which includes detailed hiking maps of the region, and a roadbook describing your itinerary and trip (a lot of tips and some alternative routes are included).
    You will have access to our 24/24 7/7 support hotline to assist you during your trip.
    Each participant will have access on his phone to our "Roadbook" app which includes an itinerary descriptions as well GPS guidance.
     
    What you need to bring:

    If you don't have the luggage transfer option, pack light, remember that you will have to carry all your stuff during the whole trip. We recommend that your backpack doesn't exceed 10 to 15% of your weight. Take only the essentials.

    Essentials:

    • Hiking backpack. A chest strap and waist strap are essential to help to distribute the weight. The size 30 L to 45 L, will depend on whether you have booked a luggage transfer or not.
    • Comfortable and worn in trekking boots.
    • Warm hat.
    • Cap.
    • Sun glasses.
    • Good quality Merino Wool walking socks.
    • Base layer tops - Merino Wool is the best choice.
    • Warm mid-layer tops.
    • A water and windproof layer (jacket and pants) eg. Gore-Tex.
    • 1x Walking trousers.
    • Light gloves.
    • Shorts.
    • Buff or Snood.
    • A natural or synthetic down jacket.
    • Casual clothes & footwear for evenings. One set is enough as you will not wear them for a long time.
    • Nightwear and underwear.
    • Sleeping bag liner - either silk, cotton or fleece (only if you're staying in dormitories in mountain Huts).
    • Sandals or flip flops. 

    Essential Accessories:

    • Personal toiletries: shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, travel towel (if you're staying in mountains Huts), etc.
    • Toilet roll/tissues.
    • Ziplock bags are handy for convenient leak-proof storage.
    • Sun block and lip balm.
    • Electrical socket adapter.
    • Energy bars/snacks.
    • Personal first aid kit + any personal medications you need to take.
    • Phone, Camera, batteries and charger.
    • Airtight and waterproof ‘dry bags' are great for keeping your clothes dry and storing your dirty laundry separate from clean clothes!
    • Head torch and batteries (spare batteries too).
    • Walking poles are highly recommended on Alps paths.
    • Cash & Cards (Euros and Swiss Francs).
    • Pocket knives or cutlery can be useful for picnics.
    • WATER - please be able to carry 2 liters of water.
    • Your sense of humor and adventure!

    If you've booked the luggage transfer:

    • Duffle bag (soft) and not exceeding 15 kg to carry your extra stuff.

    Useful extras:

    • Binoculars.
    • Book to read or Kindle.
    • Notebook and pen.
    • Ear plugs.

    Note: All of these items can be purchased there. Please ask us if you'd like some advice about where to go to get any gear.

    What to take with you in your day pack:
    Please carry the following in your day pack, as a minimum:

    • 2 liters of water.
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, lip balm.
    • Warm fleece or thermal layer and gloves.
    • Water proof layer.
    • Lunch
    • Head torch.
    • Hand sanitizer/soap and toilet paper.
    • Your camera.
    • Any money you want for snacks/drinks along the trail.
    Important - take any personal medications you require during the day - you will not see your kit bag until evening.

    The rest you can put into your main bag which will be carried to the next accommodation, only if you've subscribed to this option.

    What about gear I want to leave before the trek?
    Before departure for your trek you might pack your ‘town clothes' or anything you don't want on trek with you and ask your hotel (if you come back to the same hotel). If you want to do this, then consider bringing or buying a simple bag here for this purpose. We can also help you organise the storage of a larger suitcase, Please ask us for advice.

    First aid kit:
    It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek!

    Safety

    The Mont Blanc Experience promise

    No region in the world is 100% safe and without danger.

    Mont Blanc Experience keeps you informed and is fully transparent when it comes to the potential risks. We gather security risk information from multiple sources: in-house research, monitoring specialized websites, meetings with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "safety and security" trips in the field, constant contact with our regional specialists, local teams on the ground, and France's travel agency federation.

    Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that we cannot make any decisions for you.

    If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to:

    — Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips).
    — Modify the itinerary for our tours.
    — Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high.

    Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.

    During your trip

    Additional services : during your trip

    Climbing Gran Paradiso Peak (4061m)
    You have the option of extending your stay two additional days to climb Gran Paradiso Peak with a high-mountain guide. At the end of your trek (Day 7), continue on your way to the Tetras-Lyre Hut, just a fifteen-minute walk from the parking lot in Pont. You will eat dinner and spend the night there.

    Day 1 / Tetras-Lyre Hut - Vittorio-Emanuele II Hut
    The climb to Vittorio-Emanuele-II Hut (2735 m) follows a well-marked and well-maintained trail. The hut serves as the main base camp for people climbing the standard route up Gran Paradiso Peak. Enjoy the typical warm, welcoming, and often festive Italian atmosphere at the hut. Meet your guide here. He or she will take the time to explain the gear you will use, in addition to the basic safety and orienteering techniques needed for summer mountaineering. Eat dinner and spend the night in the hut.
    Approach hike: 2.5 hours. Vertical gain: 750m.

    Day 2 / Vittorio-Emanuele II Hut - summit of Gran Paradiso Peak
    Rise before dawn. With as light a pack on your back as possible, start by headlamp on your way to climbing to the summit of Gran Paradiso Peak (4061m)! A line of headlamps will likely light the way up the peak's standard route, which ascends a relatively easy glacier to a saddle just below the summit. From there, a short bit of climbing along a rocky ridge takes to you the summit proper and its legendary statue of the Virgin Mary. Your descent back down to the valley takes the same route and trail. Say goodbye to your guide at the end of the afternoon.
    Hiking time: 7 to 9 hours. Vertical gain: 1300m. Vertical drop: 2100m.

    Price includes
    - Accommodations in a mountain hut (2 nights).
    - 2 breakfasts and dinners
    - Guide services by a state-certified high-mountain guide (one guide for up to 4 clients).
    - All technical safety gear for the climb (harness, crampons, ice axe, and helmet).

    Your expenses for both days:
    - Picnic lunches and snacks for both days.
    - Drinks and tips.