MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

Our Clients’ Reviews

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  Bruce Bell

  MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

  

  Written July 2009

  A lot of hard work, good company, reasonably good food (excellent in some cases...), one skimpy breakfast (but I don't remember where...) "scratch a Bell and you'll uncover food," my wife says... , reasonable hotels...And magnificent surroundings unequaled in most of the world.  This latter more than compensated for any  perceived inadequacies  

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  What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  I don't much do inspirational

  What did you think of your group leader?

  Outstanding.  4 point oh, as we used to say in the service.  Tough, calm, pleasant, aware, capable...didn't get to see see her responding to any emergencies (which is good...) but I'm sure she'd have done fine.

  Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

  If you're my age (63) you'd better train hard.  I'm in pretty good shape for my age and luckily I found a hike in my neighborhood that covers 4000 vertical feet  over about 12 miles.  I was doing it twice a week (with full pack...rain gear, water, survival gear) before getting underway.  Anything less and I wouldn't have been anywhere near as happy as I was.

  Is there anything else you would like to add?

  Overall, the trip of a lifetime.  In spite of the fact that lots of people do it every year, that doesn't mean everybody can do it.  One of the very last days...I suddenly realized that I had wanted to hike the Alps for as long as I can possibly remember.  It was a bittersweet moment...here we are almost done; I've wanted to do this all my life  and here I am  but we're almost done.   Boo hoo.  I'm ready to rest a week and do it the opposite way!!

   
• 

  Colin Davidson

  MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

  

  Written September 2008

  This trip more than lived up to my expectation and I had a great two weeks. Fantastic weather and scenery, great hiking, good leadership and very friendly group.   

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  What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  Reaching the Grand Col Ferret and seeing the view of the Val Ferret opening up ahead of me - simply stunning.  

  What did you think of your group leader?

  Excellent

  Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

  Just that I would recommend the trip provided people are used to hiking - although there are some steep ascents and descents all are manageable for people used to Exodus B/C grades.

   
• 

  Muir Gordon

  MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

  

  Written September 2008

  I was somewhat apprehensive about this holiday. Having poor hearing, but being very independant, I normally walk by myself. So was not sure how I would get on with a group. In the event I had no need for any concern - I met some lovely people (including the trek leader!) who were always thoughtful and helpful. I really enjoyed being with the group and the companionship; but you were free to walk alone if you felt like it. 

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  What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  Without doubt being one of a small group who made the 'optional excursion' to the summit of Tete Nord des Fours. At 9100ft, modest by Alpine standards, and hardly technically difficult to reach, but it was marvellous to achieve and the wide-sweeping views were stunning. A bonus was to learn we were the first group to get there this year - the weather had not been good enough on earlier treks!

  Going paragliding on the final free day at Chamonix was the icing on the cake - I'd never have had the nerve to try it by myself. Unforgetable. 

  What did you think of your group leader?

  Graham Hickman worked tirelessly to ensure the party had a good holiday, taking into account their varied abilities and fitness levels. In that, he certainly suceeded. Graham also worked hard to set up the 'optional excursions' (in company with the associated TMB 'camping' group and their leader). He was very enjoyable company, and we all enjoyed chating to him, and hearing his (ahem) tall tales! I would certainly consider myself fortunate to enjoy another trek under his leadership. Finally, and most tellingly, I am certain Graham enjoyed the trek as much as any of us - and it showed.

  Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

  It helps greatly to be fit, and have your feet in good shape, but the trek is certainly achieveable by anyone who regularly does a day's walking. Go with an open mind, and be prepared for things not going quite to plan. It is an adventure after all, not a package to a Costa! 

  Is there anything else you would like to add?

  I had an absolutely wonderful time in the company of some lovely people. I should have done it years ago! So don't hesitiate, just go for it.

   
• 

  Andrew Lawrence

  How to walk through three countries in 10 days

  

  Written September 2007

  What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  Ascending the numerous Cols to be greeted by fantastic vistas of two different countries at the same time. The views from the Switzerland-Italian border were the most stunning. 

  And there are opportunities to sample an international range of hot chocolates throughout the trip!

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  What did you think of your group leader?

  Ian was a great leader, very professional and catered for all the group members needs and abilities. He got us all round in one piece.

  Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

  The Tour Du Mont Blanc is rightly described as one of the most spectacular hikes in the world. However, you have to earn the views! So make sure you know what getting yourself into...there are a lot of uphill and downhill sections which can take its toll on the legs and feet day after day. Being physically fit is one thing, but the trip is so much more enjoyable if you go on a few hill-walking weekends beforehand to prepare you mentally for the challenge. And although the trip notes say that walking poles are recommended, I should say they are essential! Those who didn't bring any ended up buying some en route!
  

  Is there anything else you would like to add?

  If the Mont Blanc Hotel Trek is not enough of a challenge for you, try the camping option to experience the whole Tour Du Mont Blanc with less sleep and damp clothes!

   

   
• 

  Ian Laidlaw

  Up there with the great walks

  

  Written September 2007

  What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  The stunning views across meadows of wild flowers to the snow clad Alps beyond.

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  What did you think of your group leader?

  Great guy who worried about everything to ensure the trip went smoothly.

  Is there anything else you would like to add?

  Do it.