France
Guided Tour du Mont Blanc in mountain huts
9 days from
2160 €
Guided groups
Mountaineering
lvl. 4
Multi-day hike
Réf : E533
Mountaineering: Mountaineering provides access to some of our planet’s greatest peaks. Choose from introduction courses to learn basic mountaineering techniques, climbs up serious committing routes, or adventures to summit prestigious peaks or lesser-known mountains.
Level 4: An average of 6 hours of hiking per day on and off trail, and/or 700 to 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances of 15 to 18 kilometers. Sections at higher elevations. Learn basic mountaineering techniques.
Level 5: An average of 6 to 7 hours of hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, and/or more than 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 20 kilometers. Sections at higher elevations. Requires knowledge and experience with basic mountaineering techniques for F (“facile” or easy) level routes.
Level 6: An average of 7 to 8 hours of serious hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, and/or more than 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 20 kilometers. Sections at higher elevations. Requires knowledge and experience with mountaineering techniques for PD and AD (somewhat difficult or relatively difficult) level routes. Climb as an independent rope team or with a guide.
Level 7: An average of 8 hours of serious hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, and/or more than 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 20 kilometers. Sections at higher elevations. Requires considerable knowledge and experience with mountaineering techniques for AD and D (relatively difficult or difficult) level routes. Climb as an independent rope team or with a guide.
Level 8: An average of 8 hours of serious hiking per day at higher elevations off trail or on rugged terrain, and/or more than 1000 meters of vertical gain. Sections at higher elevations. Requires mastery and considerable experience using mountaineering techniques for AD and D (relatively difficult or difficult) level routes. Climb as an independent rope team or with a guide.
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.
Prices indicated are calculated based on a limited number of seats available or for a departure in over 2 months from today. Once all prereserved seats are filled, or for reservations with a departure in less than 2 months, we might have to acquire seats for a higher price (depending on availability at the moment the reservation is made), which might result in the application of a supplement that increases the closer we are to the departure date.
Our trip
Climb and traverse the Gran Paradiso Peak (4,061m/13,323ft)
One extra day to maximize your chances of reaching the summit.
Incredibly warm and friendly hospitality of Italian huts.
The convenience of the meeting point in Le Fayet (Chamonix Valley), and the included transfer to Italy.
A small group : 4 participants maximum!
Overlooking the beautiful autonomous region of the Aosta Valley, the summit of Gran Paradiso rises proudly above 4,000 meters. In the heart of the national park of the same name, we follow a prestigious route across the region's finest glaciers, with the aim of climbing one of the most accessible "4000 meter" in the Alps: Gran Paradiso (4,061 m / 13,323 ft).
Reservation
| Departure | Return | Price including VAT | Departure status* | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| From 28 May 2026 | to 01 June 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed from 2 reservations on | ||
| From 11 June 2026 | to 15 June 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed | ||
| From 25 June 2026 | to 29 June 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed from 2 reservations on | ||
| From 09 July 2026 | to 13 July 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed from 2 reservations on | ||
| From 23 July 2026 | to 27 July 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed from 2 reservations on | ||
| From 06 August 2026 | to 10 August 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed from 2 reservations on | ||
| From 20 August 2026 | to 24 August 2026 | 1155 € | Confirmed from 2 reservations on | ||
*The date of departure is subject to change at any time (as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).
|
Embark on an extraordinary journey, creating lasting memories as you adventure off the beaten path, with respect for the environment and local communities. Envision your next adventure with your family or friends. Let us help you shape your own experience ! Privatize this trip |
Itinerary
Mountaineering: Mountaineering provides access to some of our planet’s greatest peaks. Choose from introduction courses to learn basic mountaineering techniques, climbs up serious committing routes, or adventures to summit prestigious peaks or lesser-known mountains.
Luggage transfers : All your equipment and personal gears
Lodging : Mountain Hut
Guiding : IFMGA guides: 1 guide for 4 people
Group : From 2 to 4 participants. The departure will be confirmed from 2 participants (The date of departure is subject to change at any time, as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).
Level 4: An average of 6 hours of hiking per day on and off trail, and/or 700 to 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances of 15 to 18 kilometers. Sections at higher elevations. Learn basic mountaineering techniques.
Duration : 5 days
Luggage transfers : All your equipment and personal gears
Lodging : Mountain Hut
Guiding : IFMGA guides: 1 guide for 4 people
Group : From 2 to 4 participants. The departure will be confirmed from 2 participants (The date of departure is subject to change at any time, as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).
Day by day
Day 1
Welcome in France, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet
Lodging : hotel.
Meals not included.
Arrive in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet, in the Chamonix Valley, a historic Alpine town. Settle into your hotel near the train station and take some time to relax before setting off on what promises to be a truly unforgettable adventure.
Day 2
Le Fayet - Pont - Victor Emmanuel II hut
Ascent : 800 m (2,625 ft).
2,5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner. Transfer : 1,5 hrs.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner. Transfer : 1,5 hrs.
Meet your guide at 10:00 a.m. at the train station. After checking your equipment, transfer to the Valsavarenche Valley, continuing to Pont, a small village at 1,960 m (6,430 ft) and the usual starting point for climbing Gran Paradiso. The approach hike to the hut begins in the forest, where you may spot wild Alpine ibex in the distance. Higher up the trail, above the tree line, the surrounding peaks gradually come into view. The Victor-Emmanuel Hut, our base camp for the next two nights, is a classic Aosta Valley refuge. Enjoy the warm Italian hospitality, along with a cup of grolla, the region's legendary coffee drink. At the hut, your guide will review the two-day programme in detail and take time to explain the equipment you'll be using, as well as the basic safety and orientation techniques needed for summer mountaineering.
Day 3
Moncorvé Pass
Ascent : 600 m (1,968 ft). Descent : 600 m (1,968 ft).
4 to 5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
First acclimatization day, with the aim of reaching the Moncorvé Pass (3,299 m / 10,823 ft), set between the imposing peaks of La Tresenta (3,609 m / 11,840 ft) and Ciarforon (3,642 m / 11,948 ft). The Moncorvé Pass offers a relatively easy loop and provides an ideal setting for cramponing practice. From the pass, the panorama is superb, with sweeping views over the great summits of the Aosta Valley Alps, including the nearby Gran Paradiso. Return to the hut.
NB: depending on weather conditions, the guide may decide to climb Gran Paradiso on this day and do the Moncorvé Pass the following day.
NB: depending on weather conditions, the guide may decide to climb Gran Paradiso on this day and do the Moncorvé Pass the following day.
Day 4
Gran Paradiso peak !
Ascent : 1350 m (4,429 ft). Descent : 2100 m (6,890 ft).
9 to 10 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch. Meals not included : dinner. Transfer : 1,5 hrs.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch. Meals not included : dinner. Transfer : 1,5 hrs.
Get up before dawn. Start the headlamp on your way to climb the summit of Gran Paradiso Peak (4,061 m / 13,323 ft)! A line of headlamps will likely light the way up the peak's standard route, which ascends a relatively easy glacier with a few steeper sections. At one point, the route heads to the right around a series of seracs, as you make your way towards Becca di Moncorve, whose steep south face rises for several hundred meters above the talus. During the final part of the ascent, the short rocky ridgeline to the summit offers amazing views and exposure high above the east face. More than a few people have turned around when staring at the last few meters of climbing to reach the statue of the Virgin Mary on the summit proper.
While descending, at a location referred to as the "donkey's back," we will veer off the standard route towards Laveciau Glacier's striking seracs. This detour leads past the north face of Gran Paradiso Peak, beneath Piccolo ("little") Paradiso, and then towards the Chabod Hut (2,750 m / 9,022 ft). From there, the descent continues to the bottom of Valsavarenche Valley. Transfer back to Le Fayet where you'll spend your last night.
Please take note:
- For safety reasons, your guide may change the program due to weather conditions, as well as the level of fitness and experience of participants.
Day 5
Depart from Chamonix valley
Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
Enjoy your last breakfast before checking out. Take the time to explore surroundings before leaving.
If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, 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
Pricing
The price includes / does not include
Price includes:
- Professional IFMGA certified guides: 1 guide for 4 people
- Accommodations: 2 nights in mountain huts (Vittorio Emmanuel hut), 2 nights in a 2-star hotel (Le Fayet)
- All meals as described.
- Energy snacks provided in an individual bag.
- Round-trip transfers between Le Fayet / St Gervais and Pont (start of the tour).
Price does not include:
- Transportation to the meeting point at the start of the trip and from the point where the trip officially ends.
- Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
- Dinners on day 1 and day 4 in Le Fayet (Chamonix valley).
- The loan of technical equipment if needed.
- Bottled water in the mountain huts.
- Showers in any huts that charge a fee.
- Anything that is not specified in the "included in the price" list.
Other expenses:
- Drinks, tips, and personal expenses.
During your trip
Our guides
Nicolas M.
Gaëtan A.
Pascal A.
Angelo M.
The guides shown here are part of our regular team. It is possible that your trip will be accompanied by others.
Our team
This trip is guided by IFMGA English-speaking guides: 1 guide for 4 people.
Transfers
These following transfers are included in the tour:
- Day 2 : private transfer from Le Fayet (Chamonix valley) to Pont (Val d'Aoste, start of the tour).
- Day 4 : private transfer from Pont to Le Fayet (Chamonix valley).
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
You'll stay both in hotel and mountain hut during this tour:
At Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le-Fayet (day 1 and day 4): a 2-stars-hotel, in a double or twin basis with
breakfast included.
Single room are available only on request and
depending on availability at the time of the bookings.
At the Vittorio Emanuele II Hut (day 2 and day 3): located on the shore of Lake Moncorvé at 2,735 m (8,973 ft), this hut is easy to spot thanks to its distinctive barrel-shaped design. The wardens are true masters of hospitality, and you'll enjoy their warm welcome as well as the typically Aosta Valley cuisine.
Thanks to our excellent relationship with the hut wardens, they usually reserve the small rooms (4 or 5 people) for our groups and clients. Very rarely-especially for last-minute bookings when these rooms are already full-the night will be spent in larger dormitories of 9, 13, or 15 beds.
Paid hot showers (€4 for 5 minutes). Shared bathrooms are generally located on the same floor as the rooms.
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.
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.
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.
At Vittorio Emmanuel II, breakfast 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 :
Dinners in Le Fayet are not included to give you all options in town and a dinner on your own.
At Vittorio Emmanuel II, meals are convivial moments when you share the table with other people. 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. Dinner at the hut is typical of an Italian high-mountain refuge: served at a set time, simple but very filling. You'll usually have a Val d'Aoste "primo" (soup/minestrone, pasta, risotto, etc.), followed by a hearty "secondo" (polenta with melted cheese or a stew), and then a refuge-style dessert (tart, cake, strudel).
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.
Lunches :
Lunch picnics are hearty and provided by Mont Blanc Experience.
Your guide will prepare them for the first few days; they usually include bread, cured sausage, cheese, spreads, fruit, etc.
Depending on your return time from the summit, you may stop with your guide and the group at the Vittorio Emanuele hut to enjoy an omelette or a plate of pasta-a well-earned treat after the climb.
Drinks :
Beverages (excluding water) are not included. Please pay for all drinks consumed on site before your departure, to avoid any additional charges after your stay.
Luggage transfer
This trip does not include luggage transport; you carry your personal belongings as well as the picnic lunches. On Days 3 and 4, for the Gran Paradiso summit, you carry only what you need for the day (out-and-back hikes from the Vittorio Emanuele Hut).
Group composition
You'll be sharing your stay with French people and English-speaking people of many different nationalities: British, American, Australian and many more. Get ready for a truly multicultural experience!
What you need to know
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.
For more information you can visit the Gran Paradiso National Park website.
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.
For more information you can visit the Gran Paradiso National Park website.
Maps:
IGC No. 101 Gran Paradiso.
Elevation gains:
Our elevation gains are calculated from the altitude differences shown on maps, not from GPS devices which-because of technical limitations (inaccuracy of GPS altitude plus statistical scatter)-very often overestimate elevation gain, sometimes by as much as 20%.
IGC No. 101 Gran Paradiso.
Elevation gains:
Our elevation gains are calculated from the altitude differences shown on maps, not from GPS devices which-because of technical limitations (inaccuracy of GPS altitude plus statistical scatter)-very often overestimate elevation gain, sometimes by as much as 20%.
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.
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.
Currencies
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.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.
Access
Access
The best way to get to St Gervais les Bains le Fayet is Geneva international airport.
From Geneva, we can organise a transfer for you.
St Gervais is easily accessible by train or shuttle.
Required before leaving
Formalities
American, Canadian, Australian and British Travellers
Visa Requirements
- No visa is required for American, Canadian, British or Australian citizens for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
Passport Requirements
Travellers must hold a passport that:
- is valid upon entry, and
- remains valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
It is strongly recommended to ensure a minimum of 6 months' validity prior to expiration to avoid potential boarding refusals by airlines.
Asian Travellers - Visa-Exempt Countries
The following nationalities may enter the Schengen Area for tourist stays of up to 90 days without a visa :
Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong (HKSAR passport).
Entry conditions for these travellers are identical to those applicable to American or British nationals:
- no visa required,
- passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date.
Asian Travellers - Visa-Required Countries
Travellers holding passports from China, India, Indonesia, the
Philippines, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan, and other South and
Southeast Asian countries must obtain a Schengen short-stay visa prior to travel, including for stays of less than 30 days.
- Visa applications must be submitted to the relevant French, Swiss or Italian consular authorities in the traveller's country of residence. Processing times may vary.
- Passports must be in good, undamaged condition (no tears, stains, staples, clips, or other alterations).
| Important Notice:
The information above is provided for guidance only
and may change according to decisions made by the French, Italian or
Swiss authorities.
Please consult official sources before travelling. |
Health
Routine Vaccinations:
Travellers should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date, according to national guidelines :
- Tetanus - diphtheria - pertussis (Tdap)
- Measles - mumps - rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Seasonal influenza
- COVID-19
These vaccinations are generally recommended for all adults.
Altitude and Physical Effort
Our tour in Italy involves sustained daily effort and includes sections at moderate altitude. Travellers are advised to :
- ensure they are in adequate physical condition,
- consult a healthcare professional in case of medical conditions potentially affected by altitude or exertion,
- bring all personal medication required for the entire duration of the trip.
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!
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!
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
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!
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 specificity 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, non-stick bandages, and an elastic bandage.
- An antiseptic.
- Sunscreen and a burn cream.
- Eye drops.
- Other : survival blanket, scissors, 2 or 3 safety pins, a tick remover, a pair of latex gloves, earplugs.
- Any personal medication.
Gear list
What you need to bring: Keep in mind that the weight of your day pack should not exceed 10-12kg.
Mountaineering equipment list:
Technical clothing (upper body):
- Short-sleeved T-shirts.
- Thermal base layers with long sleeves (e.g., Merino wool) (+ bring an extra layer in your bag during the ascent).
- A lightweight fleece jacket (+ bring an extra layer in your bag during the ascent).
- A down jacket.
- A waterproof and breathable jacket, e.g., Goretex.
Technical clothing (lower body):
- Shorts or trekking pants
- Thermal leggings (e.g., Merino wool)
- Mountain pants (ideally ski touring pants with suspenders) made of Goretex
- A pair of gaiters
- Warm and thermal socks.
Head equipment:
- A hat or cap.
- A warm hat (beanie).
- A hood.
- A snood.
- Sunglasses (at least one pair for high mountains, category 4).
Gloves:
- A pair of silk gloves (as a base layer).
- A pair of warm and waterproof gloves, e.g., ski gloves.
- A pair of mittens (ideally Goretex for cold weather and windy conditions).
Other equipment:
- A 40L day-pack to carry your gear for the day (including trekking poles and ice axe, make sure your backpack has the appropriate attachments).
- Sun protection (cream and stick) for high-altitude conditions.
- A water bottle (or hydration pack) with a minimum capacity of 2L.
- Your personal first aid kit, toilet paper.
- A pocket knife.
- A sleeping bag liner (mandatory for mountain huts stays).
- A headlamp.
- A toiletry kit and a small towel.
- Spare clothes.
- Spare shoes.
- Cash for extra drinks/snacks in mountain huts.
- Recommended extras: a rain poncho, earplugs, a thermos, camera, etc.
Technical equipment :
- Mountaineering boots compatible with crampons (rigid soles with a rear welt), with good thermal insulation.
- Crampons suited to your boots, with anti-balling plates.
- A mountaineering ice axe.
- An adjustable mountaineering harness (less than 10 years old).
- One locking screw-gate carabiner.
- A mountaineering helmet.
- Telescopic trekking poles (mandatory).
If you would like to rent your technical equipment, you can ask your travel advisor to book it for you.
Mountaineering boot rental :
If you wish to rent mountaineering boots, you can ask us to book this service for you. Be sure to specify your shoe size.
Rental equipment should be picked up directly at the store before your meeting with the guide. The rental shop's contact details will be provided in your briefing.
Rental equipment should be picked up directly at the store before your meeting with the guide. The rental shop's contact details will be provided in your briefing.
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:
— 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.