I am looking at doing the Tour du Mont Blanc in early to mid July. Do I need to pre-book all of my lodging for the whole trip in advance, or is it viable to just book the first couple days, then reserve a day or two ahead as I hike? It would suck to be caught without a bed. But at the same time, a trip like this would really benefit from some flexibility in the itinerary.
1
mitzimeow
Early to mid July is not peak season (August) but it is still a fairly busy time. If you know where you want to stay and when, then I suggest that you book in order to remove the uncertainty. It is true that refuge staff will sometimes find you a place (like on a table!) when they are full but you cannot rely on that. If there is another refuge within realistic walking distance they may insist that you go there. It is also possible to book in your current refuge for the next one along. But what do you do if the next refuge is full? Members of alpine clubs get some preference as well as some discount. You could consider joining the UK section of the Austrian Alpine Club. Most refuge staff understand the effects of bad weather and make allowances, after all they have been doing this a lot longer than you probably have. I suppose the real issue here is not that flexibility is good (clearly it is), but how flexible you can afford to be.
2
rics
I'm doing the TMC in late August/early Sept. We've already booked. Europe is not Montana. Book now for maximum peace of mind. Why wouldn't you?
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