Perfect reflection on the Chésery lakes in front of the Mont Blanc massif
9-day adventure

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc

France
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Code: FRCM

9 days
Challenging

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Our local team

Established in Chamonix over 30 years ago, our local agency in the Alps provides a huge range of activities from high altitude summit climbs to gentle walks in the foot hills. Our experienced guides and quality equipment will provide you with everything you need to enjoy climbing, hiking and mountaineering in the heart of Europe's most iconic mountains. We share our offices with the equipment manufacturer Simond, who have been manufacturing...
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Kandoo's view

Join us on this nine-day, classic Alpine circuit of Mont Blanc. On this trek we stay in traditional gites and refuges along the route, which gives you the full Alpine experience and great camaraderie along the way.
The historic Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most spectacular walks of the world. Trekking around the “top of Western Europe” means discovering an incomparable universe of high mountains and glaciers. You will discover the French, Italian and Swiss slopes, from Chamonix to the Courmayeur valley, and from the Fenêtre d’Arpette to the wild Val Ferret. The path winds between mountain pastures, glaciers and peaks, crosses high mountain passes, lush valleys and highway-sized glaciers. 

Trip highlights

  • Trek through outstanding alpine scenery
  • Pass through Italy, Switzerland and France
  • Discover towering peaks, huge glaciers and lush valleys

Experiences

  • Trekking & Hiking
    Hikers in Thorong, during the Annapurnas Tour
    Our core collection of treks and hikes, through some of the world's most outstanding landscapes

Gallery

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Arrive in Chamonix

    Arrive at Geneva airport and transfer to the beautiful mountain town of Chamonix. The drive from the airport is roughly 90 mins and on arrival, you can check in at your hotel and spend some time exploring the town. Later you will attend a pre-climb briefing with your Guide to prepare you for your climb. There are many typical Savoyard restaurants close to your hotel where you can sample some alpine specialties, such as cheese fondue, tartiflette or raclette.

    • Transport: Private transfer (1.2 hours, 100 km)
    • Accomodation: Hotel
  • Day 2

    Chamonix to Les Contamines

    We will catch the bus or train to Les Houches where we will take the Bellevue cable car. From the top cable car station there is a beautiful panoramic view of Mont Blanc , the Aiguilles Rouges, the Fiz chain and the Aravis. We then begin our trek in earnest, following a 1800m-high balcony that leads us to the bottom of the Bionnassay glacier. Crossing the Col de Tricot (2120m) we will descend to the village of Les Contamines-Montjoie where we will spend the night.

    • Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours
    • Ascent: 1085 m
    • Descent: 956 m
    • Max. altitude: 2120 m
    • Accomodation: Refuge
    • Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
  • Day 3

    Les Contamines-Montjoie to La Ville de Glaciers

    Today begins with a leisurely trek along the river to the beautiful baroque Church of Notre Dame de la Gorge, which marks the start of the mountain trail. A long and steep ascent leads us to the Col de Bonhomme (2329m). This pass has been used for
    centuries by shepherds and their herds, armies and soldiers, pilgrims and hawkers – and now the hikers of the Tour du Mont Blanc!

    We have a further climb to cross the Col des Fours (2665m) before we drop gently down to the mountain pastures where we find ourselves among herds of Tarine and Abondance breeds. The milk from these cows is used to make many cheeses, especially the Beaufort and Abondance which are local specialties. Your guide will be sure to visit some local farms to stock up for your next picnic!

    • Hiking time: 7 - 8 hours
    • Ascent: 1501 m
    • Descent: 876 m
    • Max. altitude: 2665 m
    • Accomodation: Refuge
    • Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Trip information

Difficulty

Whilst a high level of fitness will make the hikes a lot easier it by no means requires super human fitness. We often take people who are not in peak physical condition, however that being said, a solid  training plan will allow you to better prepare for the hikes and enjoy yourself when you're on the trail. What all successful hikers share though is a real Kandoo attitude and that means high levels of grit and determination. 


There is a lot of steep ascent and descent on this trek, so your legs will be getting a good workout. If you are comfortable walking for 6-7 hours with an ascent of 1000m then you are certainly fit enough to succeed on the Tour. Think of it as climbing Snowdon or Ben Nevis every day for six days! If you can do this then there is no reason why you can't make the entire Tour du Mont Blanc.

Food & drink

This trip is on a full board basis (except for nights in Chamonix). For your evening meals in Chamonix there is a wide range of local restaurants for you to sample. If you have a dietary requirement or are a vegetarian then just let us know when you book so that we can plan a suitable menu.


 The refuges provide hearty, traditional and generous meals. Drinks are not included with dinner, so please make sure you have some Euros and Swiss Francs with you. Refuges do not normally accept card payments.   


Packed lunches will be produced by your guide and include local meats and cheeses, crusty bread and fresh seasonal vegetables. The lunch items will be shared between all of the group for carrying each day. Remember to bring your favourite snacks (cereal or energy bars, dried fruits, chocolate) with you to keep you going through the day.


Tap water is typically safe to drink in France so you can fill up your water bottle each morning at the hotel. On the trek itself, you will be passing many refuges where you will also be able to top up your water if needed.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Chamonix will be in a 3-star hotel in twin rooms. You  will stay in Chamonix on the first and last night of the trip. Please note that your evening meal is not included when you are in Chamonix.


You will spend six nights in mountain refuges in shared mixed-sex dormitory rooms: blankets are provided but you will need to bring a sleeping bag liner. Please only bring very basic toiletries.

Luggage

You will need two bags for this trip. One travel bag for your replacement clothes which will be transferred between locations vehicle (max 10kg) Tip: Bring a bin liner to protect your clothes from humidity. Please do not lock your luggage as they may need to be checked by Swiss customs. Please note: Do not leave computers, tablets, cameras and valuable objects in your travel bag. One 30-40L rucksack with a large chest strap that you will carry during the day.  You will carry your own personal equipment (spare warm clothes, waterproofs, water bottle, camera and sun screen) and valuables, as well as your packed lunch in your rucksack

How do I get there?

For travelers based in the UK or the US, it is best to fly to Geneva International Airport (GVA). Lots of airlines fly to Geneva from all of the major UK airports, and many of the larger US international airports as well.

We will collect you from Geneva airport and transfer you to your hotel in Chamonix. Airport transfers are included in the cost of your trip on arrival and departure days only. If you decide to arrive in the Alps early or stay on a little longer after your trip, please call us to arrange a private transfer.  The drive to Chamonix takes roughly one and a half hours. Please be aware that we may ask you to wait at the airport for up to 90 mins if there is other Kandoo Adventures guests arriving shortly after you. Transfers back to Geneva after your trip depart at 9am from your hotel in Chamonix.

When you arrive in Geneva, please look out for our driver in the arrivals area, they will be holding a large "KANDOO ADVENTURES" sign. 

Budget & change

The currency in France and Italy is the Euro (EUR) and in Switzerland the Swiss Franc (CHF).

Credit and debit cards are not accepted at the mountain refuges so you will need to carry enough cash for snacks, drinks and any personal expenses. You can withdraw money from ATMs in Chamonix on day 1.

Tips

Although the custom of tipping is common it is not mandatory and should be left to the discretion of each individual.  If you are happy with the services of your guide then a tip is always appreciated. 

Formalities & health

Passport

Most travellers will require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific requirements and please be aware that proof of onward travel may be required.

Visa

Travelling to France is visa free for up to 90 days, for UK and US citizens

Vaccinations

There are no specific health risks in the Mont Blanc region. However, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations and boosters are up to date, such as tetanus and MMR.

Insurance

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fully and adequately insured for the duration of your trip. Please ensure that all activities, excursions and destinations in your itinerary are included in your travel insurance policy, in addition to your regular cover for cancellation and medical expenses. Many insurance policies will have a maximum altitude limit, if you are climbing Mont Blanc or Gran Paradiso you should ensure you are covered for climbing up to 5000m. We ask that you keep a copy of your policy summary (containing policy number and the emergency contact number for your insurer) in your day sack at all times, so that we can access this information should we need to contact the insurer on your behalf.

Medication

Your guide carries a first aid kit at all times but we recommend you carry the following items: - Painkillers - Anti-inflammatory tablets/gel - Second Skin Elastoplast (to prevent blisters)/ bandages - Sunscreen and Biafine cream (for sunburn) - Sleeping aids and/or earplugs - Personal medication

Equipment & clothing

Clothing to bring

  • Sun Hat (preferably wide brimmed for protection )
  • Sunglasses
  • Neck gaiter or scarf
  • Warm beanie style hat
  • Gloves - warm fleece or wool
  • Short sleeved t-shirts - light weight and quick drying
  • Long sleeve t-shirts - light weight and quick drying
  • Fleece or soft shell jacket
  • Insulated jacket
  • Waterproof/windproof hard shell jacket
  • Trekking shorts and/or trousers
  • Windproof and waterproof hard shell trousers
  • Gaiters
  • Trekking boots - with good ankle support
  • Comfortable trainers for the evenings
  • Light weight trekking socks / warm socks

Equipment to bring

  • 80-100 litre duffel bag or backpack (not a rigid suitcase)
  • 30-40 litre daypack
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Trekking poles
  • Water bottles or hydration pack
  • Drybags for your kit (if your duffel bag is not waterproof)
  • Cutlery set
  • Head torch with spare batteries

Other Accessories

  • Pocket knife
  • Camera
  • Thermos flask
  • Snacks
  • Microfibre towel
  • Ear plugs
  • Plug adapter
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitiser

Dates & prices

From To Price Availability Book Enquire
25/06/2023 03/07/2023 $2,595 £1,999
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30/07/2023 07/08/2023 $2,595 £1,999
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30/06/2024 08/07/2024 $2,725 £2,099
Available
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14/07/2024 22/07/2024 $2,725 £2,099
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28/07/2024 05/08/2024 $2,725 £2,099
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11/08/2024 19/08/2024 $2,725 £2,099
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25/08/2024 02/09/2024 $2,725 £2,099
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Want to ask us a question or book a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!

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Price includes

  • Return transfers from Geneva to Chamonix
  • Full supervision by a professional mountain guide
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Chamonix
  • 6 nights accommodation in mountain refuge
  • Full board: all breakfasts, lunches and dinners (except in Chamonix on day 1 and 8)
  • Luggage transfers throughout the trek

Price does not include

    • International flights
    • Evening meal on day 1 and 8 in Chamonix
    • Drinks, snacks and personal expenses
    • Personal trekking equipment
    • Travel insurance
    • Tips for your guide

    Options

    • Additional nights before or after your tour