mont-blanc-custom-trekking-tour-du-mont-blanc

Self-guided

Hiking

lvl. 3 to 5
Tailor made
Mon Roadbook App
Essential
Hotel or Mountain Hut
Multi-day hike
Réf : E3L7
2 days Ask for a quote

Our trip

  • A 100% tailor-made itinerary.

  • Learn all about three alpine cultures as you hike through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

  • A choice of comfortable and welcoming accommodations.

  • A team of TMB experts, based in the Alps, to answer your questions.

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

By yourself, as a couple, as a family, or with friends, our customized packages offer you the chance to add a personal touch to this legendary through-hike around one of the European Alps' most iconic ranges. Our in-house experts, who have hiked this loop many times, will be happy to help you make the right choices and guide you through the process of planning your trip.

Tour du Mont Blanc is a very requested trip. We are recommending you to book your trip as soon as possible!

A journey to suit you
A tailor-made trip that suits you It's all your choices! Your adventure specialist is here to create your own specific adventure, based on your desires and budget. He will guide you through the different options of itinerary, accommodation, transportation, activities... and design for you the trip you've been dreaming of!

Proposal of services and estimated budget

Hotel Mountain Hut

Hotel

Tailor made

Mountain Hut

Tailor made
Ask for a quote
86% of our satisfied clients
of 7 who participated in our satisfaction review
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Andrew M. Very satisfied of the trip Your tailor-made Tour du Mont Blanc
Traveler
1 trip with Mont Blanc Experience
Very satisfied of the trip Your tailor-made Tour du Mont Blanc
Julie was very helpful in assisting to put together our personalised hiking itinerary. Being from Australia, we hadnít travelled to Chamonix before and so we had many questions to prepare our adventure. Julie was able to answer all of our questions very promptly. We feel our experience was complete seeing glaciers, mountains, eating French pastries, and of course experiencing Mont Blanc. I would definitely recommend Mont Blanc Experiences to fellow travellers.

To check out as well...

Itinerary

Level 3: An average of 4 to 5 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails and/or 600 to 800 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 15 kilometers.

Level 5: An average of more than 6 hours of hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, with more than 1000 meters of vertical gain (and/or distances up to 20 kilometers). Possibly sections at high altitude.

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 : 2 days
Luggage transfers : 2 options: with or without luggage transfer
Lodging : Mountain Hut, Mountain Inn, Gite, Hotel
Guiding : Self-guided or guided
Group : Minimum 2 persons
Season : From mid-June to late September

Day by day

By yourself, as a couple, as a family, or with friends, our customized packages offer you the chance to add a personal touch to this legendary through-hike around one of the European Alps' most iconic ranges. Our in-house experts, who have hiked this loop many times, will be happy to help you make the right choices and guide you through the process of planning your trip. You get to choose:

-       The length of your trip: circle the range in 2 to 12 days of hiking and with as many rest days as you want spread out through one or several sections.

-       The level of comfort*: you can choose the type of lodging - dormitory or shared room in a mountain hut or lodge, a private room in a guest house, or a 2/3/4 star hotel. You can also mix different types of lodging all throughout your trip.
*Based on availability, we you make your reservation.

-       The start and end points: start and end the trek at whatever section you like. Whether you start in Chamonix, Contamines-Montjoie, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, or Courmayeur, it is possible to circumnavigate the Mont-Blanc range in whatever direction you want (clockwise or counterclockwise).

-       Baggage transfers: choose whether or not to have your bags transferred for all or specific sections of your trip.

-       Meals: opt for a B&B package*, half board, full board*, or a mix of all three.
*Not offered for certain sections of the trip.

-       All-inclusive: this package includes public or private shuttle transfers and any ski lifts along the route. We take care of everything.

-       Welcome: you can request for someone to "welcome" you in Chamonix or Les Houches and who will provide a briefing the day before or the morning when you start** your adventure.
Included in the "all-inclusive" package.
**Saturdays and Sundays excluded.

-       Roadbook language: you have the choice between French or English.

Estimated budget

Hotel Mountain Hut

Hotel

Tailor made

Mountain Hut

Tailor made
The final price of your customized trip will depend on your departure dates, the number of participants, selected services, and any specific arrangements requested. It will be detailed in your quote.

Pricing

The price includes / does not include

The final price of your tailor-made trip will depend on your departure dates, the number of participants and the services you choose. Your quote will include:
  • The day-by-day itinerary you have chosen,
  • Your choice of accommodation (hotels, mountain huts, mountain inns)
  • Choice of meal plan
  • Luggage transport options
  • Any private transfers between stages
  • Your personalized roadbook with your maps and reservation vouchers or the privatization of a mountain guide if you prefer a guided version.
  • Etc.

Currencies

France
France is 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.
Exchange rate

 


Italia
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.

Switzerland
Switerzland doesn't belong to Euro zone. The Swiss use their own currency, the Swiss Franc. The exchange rate is approximately 1 CHF = 1 EUR.
Swiss shops and hotels may take euros (usually in bills only, and change in CHF), and usually offer an unfavorable exchange rate (for you). You are better off paying by credit/debit card or withdrawing cash from an ATM.

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.
  • IGN maps for your hike (TOP 25 St Gervais 3531 ET or/and TOP 25 Chamonix 3630 OT at 1/25 000°).
  • My Roadbook" travel assistant via our mobile application.
  • All documents required to organize your stay.

Transfers

Depending on your project, we can recommend one or more transfers, either by road or by lift.

We'll guide you through the options available and provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice.

If you prefer greater comfort and peace of mind, we can organize your journeys in a private vehicle, allowing you to avoid the unforeseen problems associated with public transport.

Lodging

In terms of accommodation, the Tour du Mont Blanc offers a multitude of options to satisfy each hikers need.
Depending on your wishes, you can choose to stay in hotels carefully selected by our expert team, each offering a distinct style and charm (ranging from 2* to 5*).

You can also enjoy the authentic experience of one or more nights in a mountain huts or inn, where conviviality and simplicity are the keywords.
We look forward to hearing from you!

Meals

You have the choice between several options: bed & breakfast, half-board or full board.

We can book packed lunches for you, which you can collect directly from your accommodation on the morning of your departure.

If you prefer, you're also free to bring your own supplies, either by shopping in supermarkets and/or taking advantage of the refuges' catering services.

If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know as soon as you register, so that we can adapt to your needs.

Luggage transfer

You can choose between two options: have your bags transported by vehicle or carry all your belongings during your stay.
Of course, you can also combine these options according to your preferences.

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%.

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.

Required before leaving

Formalities

France
Please check with your embassy.

Switzerland
Please check with your embassy.

Getting ready

Physical fitness level 3

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking least once per week (around 15km) on a trail with considerable vertical gain (250m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity for 1 to 1.5hrs.

Physical fitness level 5

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking multiple times per week (around 20km) on trails 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).
  • A broad-spectrum antibiotic.
  • An antispasmodic, anti-diarrheal tablets, an intestinal antibiotic, and an antiemetic (for nausea or vomiting).
  •  Cough medicine (in tablet or pill form).
  • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips, non-stick bandages, and an elastic bandage.
  • An antiseptic.
  • A phlebotonic.
  • Sunscreen and a burn cream.
  • Eye drops.
  • Other: tweezers, scissors, 2 or 3 safety pins, a tick remover, a pair of latex gloves, sleeping pills (mild) and/or earplugs, any personal medication. See the paragraph on “Health” for indications on specific medications for altitude sickness, malaria, etc.
  • Iodine or other similar tablets to purify water.

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.