Mont Blanc Classic
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A classic self guided supported walk in the Alps through France, Switzerland and Italy
A trek around the highest peak in the European Alps where spectacular alpine scenery combines with the charm of French, Swiss and Italian mountain villages. This historic itinerary takes you across passes, around enormous glaciers and via stunning lakes to take in some of the best viewpoints in the Alps. Meadows crossed by clear melt water streams lead you downwards to green pastures where shepherds will sell their Beaufort cheese to you fresh! Mountain refuges and hotels provide a relaxing respite at the end of your day's trek. This journey is for experienced alpine walkers - providing an enthralling alpine experience with unsurpassed views around each bend.
Highlights
- Trek through stunning alpine scenery around the highest peak in Western Europe
- Experience the exhilaration of trekking through three countries in the European Alps
- Enjoying the culinary specialties such as Raclette
- Participating in the camaraderie on the trail and at night in the refuges
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Le Tour begin walk to Trient – 4.5-5.5 hours /894m
Leaving from the village of Le Tour you take the scenic high mountain path of Balme heading towards Switzerland. Weather permitting you will be able to take some wonderful photos of the Mont Blanc chain including the impressive “La Verte”, the Drus and the Needles of Chamonix. You will cross the border between France and Switzerland before making your way down to the village of Trient for overnight accommodation.
Day 2 Walk to Champex – 5.5 or 6.5 hours/776m or 1368m
There are two alternative routes between Trient and Champex. The first is via the Mountain of Bovine which involves crossing the Forclaz Pass (1527m) where there are beautiful lake views. The other, is The “Fenêtre d'Arpette” (2665m) route, which is a variant on the Tour du Mont Blanc and is quite challenging. In adverse weather conditions this pass is not recommended. The trail, is not as well defined as the lower route but as with many pass crossings, the rewards on a good weather day are the extraordinary views to the Trient Glacier. The descent to Champex is steep though you will have the opportunity to have a hot shower at your lodge.
Day 3 To La Fouly – 5.5 hours /454m
Although this is most definitely an easier day, it is also one that highlights some amazing natural beauty. Dry meadows, pools of fresh water, herds of cows and wonderful chalets surrounded by flower filled gardens abound. Swiss village life is all around and the lower valleys at the base of the Mont Blanc Massif provide a contrast to the high alpine meadows of the previous and following days. A further highlight of the day is the wonderful “Valais des hommes” and the beautiful mountain views at La Fouly. Overnight: La Fouly.
Day 4 To Elena – 5-5.5 hours / 1028m
The route takes you out of Switzerland and into Italy by the Grand Col Ferret (2537m) pass. It’s a steady climb and at the Col you will be awe inspired by the sweeping views of the Pre de Bar glacier. After some time drinking in the panorama you can amble down the steep track to your overnight refuge accommodation which is located at the base of the glacier and thus provides a great opportunity to witness it under changing light. Overnight Refuge
Day 5 To Elisabetta Refuge – 6-6.5 hours / 1400m
Descend from Elena Refuge to Arp Nouvaz (or Arunuva), from where you take an hour long bus trip to Courmayeur. Nestled at the end of Italy's Aosta Valley it is an atmospheric town which is worthy of some light exploration and a good place to taste the renowned and delicious Italian gelato. If the weather is good, you can continue on foot from Courmayeur toward Elisabetta Refuge by crossing the Checroui Pass (2185m), otherwise, a short bus ride on from Courmayeur will drop you at La Visaille from where you can walk up to the enchanting valley where the enormous Miage glacier flows down into Lake Combal. On the Italian side of Mont Blanc, one gains a completely different perspective of the highest peak in the European Alps.
Day 6 Walk to Chapieux – 4-5 hours /400m
You make your way over the Col de La Seigne mountain path, which is overhung by limestone pyramids and the Estelette Glacier, until you reach France. The trail then descends across the high mountain pastures to the City of the Glaciers. Today also provides an excellent opportunity to buy Beaufort cheese from the local farmers.
Day 7 Walk to Notre Dame de La Gorge – 6-7 hours /930m
This mornings walk takes you up mountain pastures to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2483m) where there are brilliant views southeast to the peaks of the Vanoise. The trail continues down to the Col du Bonhomme (2329m) and crosses the Contamines Natural Reserve. A sharp descent through a pine forest fringed gorge takes you to an ancient Roman Road and the church of Notre Dame de la Gorge, where there is a bus or taxi service to Le Fayet and Chamonix.
Day 8 Walk to Les Houches (5.5 or 6.5hrs)
Two options for your walk today - either via Le Champel or the Col de Tricot (2120m). Both trails converge on the Col de Voza (1653m). The easier route via Le Champel follows the river valley past Contamines and heads slowly to La Gruvaz before continuing to Le Champel and a fairly steep ascent via Bionnassay to the Col de Voza. On the longer route, follow a combination of tracks and trails past Contamines before you ascend to cross a shoulder of Mont Truc followed by an ascent of the Col du Tricot (2120m) which forms the divide between the Miage and Bionnasay Valleys. From here you have some spectacular views of limestone cliffs and the pistes below. The descent follows a combination of gravel roads and tracks past some settlements to reach Les Houches. Your luggage will be waiting for you at a pre-designated location from 3pm. Trip concludes.
Additional Information
Inclusions
- 6 breakfasts, 6 dinners (does not include drinks) – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner will consist of 2 or 3 courses which may include regional specialties
- 6 nights accommodation in mountain refuges / gîte hostels on a dormitory share basis. It is possible to upgrade to 5 nights in a double room – additional cost applies.
- luggage transfer (max 10kgs)
- maps – route is waymarked
Summary
- MOUNTAIN REFUGES/GÎTE-HOSTELS
Trip Main Activities
- SELF GUIDED WALK
Group Size Min
Group Size Max
Accommodation Summary
Accommodation is dormitory style in mountain refuges or Gite hostels. There can be up to 40 people in one room in some refuges but less on most nights (around 10-12). Beds are often bunks but can also be one long platform with separate mattresses. Bathrooms and toilets are shared. Please note if you elect the double room option you will often stay in different accommodation and therefore follow a slightly different route. This should be kept in mind when travelling with friends as you may be split up if you choose different styles of accommodation. The double room option is not available for single travelers. In the alps if there is a free bed it will be sold regardless of whether you as an individual have requested a single room. To avoid this likelihood we do not offer a single option in this category. Single travelers should take the dormitory option.
Equipment Required
Wet weather gear, sunscreen, walking boots, warm clothes, day pack and sun hat – walking sticks are recommended.
What You Carry
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from
USD$890
Why we recommend World Expeditions
- Pioneers in responsible travel.
- No local payments.
- True adventures in every sense.
- Expert guides and support.
- Quality facilities and transport.
Customer care
World Expeditions is a global company with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Canada, all staffed with experienced adventure travellers.
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