MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

Weather - I did the trip in late June last year, and the weather was lovely pretty much all the way through. We did have a couple of days of white cloud or grey skies, but the sun was actually out most of the time. It rained a couple of afternoons after the clouds built up. To check the weather, I would look online at forecasts. It's impossible to say what the conditions are going to be exactly, as the mountains can change everything depending on local patterns. It should be nice and warm during the day, low to mid 20s, and pleasant evenings lower down. As you get higher, the sun will still be bright and strong but there can be a chill wind on exposed areas.

Clothing - I had a warm fleece, wind/ waterproof jacket and some gloves. Apart from that, it was just the usual layers underneath. I would also advise a rain cover for your rucksack. I would go with the lighter waterproof, as you'll only be wearing it during the day, and can easily stick a fleece underneath if it's chilly, but you should be fine with layers.

The walk - I found Day 4 probably the toughest but also the most beautiful. It was the toughest as the lift was closed on the way down, so it meant a long extra walk. If the lift is open on your departure, you shouldn't have as long a day but the ascent is still very steep in places and can be tiring if it's hot. But the views from the ridge at the top, the openess, Lac Blanc, looking across to the other side of the valley with the glaciers hanging down, were stunning. But it's not unique, most of the walks have stunning views, it's really one of the prettiest areas for walking I have ever been to. It is definitely steep in places and you'll feel it in your legs at the end of the day but well worth it.
The walking paths are really well looked after out there, so the ground underfoot isn't too much of an issue. There were a couple of days with long ascents (I remember the La Blanc day and the final day being longer than most of the others) and then descents, but the pace is quite even and none of our group had any problems, even with quite mixed abilities.
Also, as it's centre based, you can always take a day off (in addition to the free day) if you like.

It's a wonderful trip and we were so well looked after by Oliver and Elaine, I know you'll love it!

Chloe Knott - Product Manager
 

Yes,  this trip is centre based so if you would prefer to take off any of the days, you're free to do your own thing. Obviously we hope you'll take advantage of all that is on offer, but it's still a holiday, not a forced march!

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

It’s not necessary to take both currencies as the places we visit in Switzerland will take Euros. However, you may not get a particularly favourable Euro/ Swiss Franc exchange rate, but you won't be spending much when over the border so the difference is minimal.

Katarzyna Crompton - Customer Operations

Staff member Louisa Richardson travelled to the Mont Blanc region and you can read her article here to get a personal viewpoint of the area.

If you are used to walking with poles then you can take them with you. They are not essential though and the walk is manageable without them. It is personal preference but do remember to pack them as part of your main luggage to be stowed in the hold.

Sharmil Goswami - Sales

The Chalet is run by Oliver and Elaine Ensor and is perched on the hillside above the charming village of Les Houches. There are 9 bedrooms, all with private facilities and some with balconies. There is also a sauna and hot tub that can be used after a day's walk - very welcome! The chalet has a dining room, a comfortable wood-panelled lounge with leather armchairs opening onto 2 balconies, and fire place room where complimentary tea and coffee can be taken and drinks are available from a self service bar. Chalet facilities include free unlimited internet on your computer or the chalet computer, satellite TV, DVD, video and drying room.

Katarzyna Crompton - Customer Operations

There's really no restiction, whatever feels comfortable for you. Whether that's a wheelie case or a rucksack, you won't be carrying it too far so don't worry!

Amanda Ceraolo - Product Manager

Please visit the Exodus Travel Guide to Switzerland where you can find out what plugs they use, as well as more detailed Country information in the menu on the left of the page.

Please visit the Exodus Travel Guide to France where you can find out what plugs they use, as well as more detailed Country information in the menu on the left of the page.

Please visit the Exodus Travel Guide to Italy where you can find out what plugs they use, as well as more detailed Country information in the menu on the left of the page.

You can view the Grading System for our Walking & Trekking programme online.

All the staff at Exodus share a passion for adventure travel, and are always happy to answer any questions you may have. You can find an expert for the area you are interested in here and can contact them to get further information. If you don't see your specific country listed, please email customerops@exodus.co.uk and they will get the answers you need!