A spectacular point-to-point trek with three rest days to enjoy the beautiful mountain surroundings
Ranked among the best hikes in the world, the Tour du Mont Blanc takes in three diverse countries – France, Switzerland and Italy – and offers the greatest mountain scenery in Europe. Experience has taught us that 15 days is the perfect duration to fully appreciate this memorable circuit around Mont Blanc – 10 days of trekking complemented by three rest days.
Overall the trekking will feel tough with long walking days but the three rest days are incorporated to give you time to rest the legs whilst enjoying three fascinating alpine towns.
Courmayeur is an old worldly Italian gem with windy pedestrian streets lined with chic shops and delightful cafes, bars and restaurants. A short, free, bus ride away is the luxurious QC Therm Spa and wellness centre, a lovely treat. Les Contamines and St Gervais are charming alpine towns with interesting local markets, electric bike hire and gondoliers taking you up to stunning view points. The last free day is in Chamonix, the vibrant heart of the Mont Blanc massif, with a wide choice of activities to try, including paragliding and taking the Aiguille du Midi cable car up to 12,605ft (3,842m) for spectacular, close-up views of Mont Blanc.
Led by an experienced International Mountain Leader, you will climb over six mountain passes, cross beneath colossal glaciers, meander through beautiful alpine meadows, and discover picture-postcard villages. We sleep in campsites throughout the trek, often with outstanding views that aren’t possible from a hotel room. Tents are modern and spacious – designed for three people but only allocated to two – and an unlimited number of single tents is available. For those seeking a little more comfort, mattresses and sleeping bags are also available to hire.
While getting back to nature is a rewarding, energising experience, we recognise that having a comfortable stay along the way can make a camping trek even more special. Delicious three-course meals are on the menu when in camp, and five restaurant meals are also included during the trek. Your baggage is transported between each location by our dedicated camp support leader and van, and tents are put up by our camp crew before you arrive at each campsite, leaving you free to enjoy the inspiring scenery found only on this classic trek.
Highlights
Complete one of the world’s great hiking circuits: the Tour du Mont Blanc
Join a small group guided by an International Mountain Leader with expert knowledge of the area
Marvel at the snow-capped peak of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps
Spend three rest days in Alpine towns, including Chamonix
Camp in stunning mountain settings, sharing beautiful views with your small group
10 days point-to-point trekking with vehicle support; three rest days
Eight days challenging and two days moderate walking (see trip notes for more details)
Camping support crew to carry baggage between campsites and put up tents
Maximum altitude 8,323ft (2,537m); average 5,003ft (1,525m)
Option to travel by train to your adventure
Countries visited: France, Italy, Switzerland
What's Included
All breakfasts, 10 picnic lunches, 12 dinners
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Group arrival and departure transfers available
What's Not Included
Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations
10Days of Walking & Trekking
Pace:
Approximately six to eight hours walking per day
Terrain:
Low altitude; good paths with some steep ascents
Day 2
10 km / 6.2 miles
Day 3
13 km / 8.1 miles
Day 4
16 km / 9.9 miles
Day 5
15 km / 9.3 miles
Day 6
14 km / 8.7 miles
Day 8
14 km / 8.7 miles
Day 9
24 km / 14.9 miles
Day 10
17 km / 10.6 miles
Day 12
18 km / 11.2 miles
Day 13
11 km / 6.8 miles
Sustainability and Impact
At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.
As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.
Fly to Geneva; transfer to campsite at Les Bossons, near Chamonix
On arrival to Geneva airport we take a bus transfer to our start point just outside Chamonix, France (approx 1hr 15 transfer time). Wonderful views from the campsite of Mont Blanc and the dramatic crevassed Glacier des Bossons, especially at sunset. Those not flying with the group join us at the campsite in the afternoon. In the evening there is an introductory briefing by the trek crew.
Campsite: Camping Les Marmottes, Les Bossons
Meals included: Dinner
Day
1
Start at Les Bossons, near Chamonix
Our start point is the campsite in Les Bossons, which has wonderful views of Mont Blanc and the dramatic, crevassed Glacier des Bossons, especially at sunset. In the evening, there is an introductory briefing by the trek crew.
Campsite: Camping Les Marmottes, Les Bossons
Meals included: Dinner
Day
2
Follow the Grand Balcon Sud from Chamonix to Les Frasserands
From Les Bossons (3,320ft/1,012m), we have a short bus journey to Chamonix from where we walk to Les Praz and take the cable car to La Flégère (6,100ft/1,860m). The trail today is named the Grand Balcon and is on the opposite side of the valley from Mont Blanc, affording excellent views of the whole massif lying to our south. Initially, we contour and then climb to reach the high point of the day, Lac Blanc (7,715ft/2,352m). The trail descends and then contours high above the valley before dropping steeply to the hamlet of Les Frasserands (4,500ft/1,371m), from where we take a scenic valley train back to our campsite. In the afternoon, there is a very short section of ladders/steep steps with handrails to descend.
Cross over Col de Balme to Switzerland and camp at Trient
After a scenic train ride up the valley to Les Frasserands, we begin by climbing steeply to the Aiguillette de Posettes (7,200ft/2,201m), descend a little and then ascend towards the Col de Balme (7,190ft/2,191m) where we follow one of the paths across the border from France to Switzerland. Enjoy excellent views all morning of Aiguille d’Argentière and Aiguille du Tour and its glacier. After lunch, we descend to the small hamlet of Trient (4,250ft/1,296m), where we will have lovely views of the Trient Glacier.
We climb first to the Col de Forclaz (5,010ft/1,527m) and then onwards to look directly into the Rhône Valley and the small Swiss town of Martigny. We follow a historic path used to take the cows to summer grazing, the ‘Bovine route’ (6,720ft/2,049m), which takes us through meadows and high alpine pastures before descending to Champex (4,880ft/1,486m), a town beside a picturesque alpine lake.
Now on the east side of the main Mont Blanc massif, we walk south, descending through woods to the Val Ferret and on to Issert (3,460ft/1,055m) and other pretty alpine farming villages. If you are visiting early in the season (June/July), this is a great day to see flowers in bloom, including orchids. We continue up the valley to the remote village of La Fouly (5,250ft/1,600m), which lies at the foot of Mont Dolent, whose summit marks the meeting point of France, Switzerland and Italy.
Climb to Grand Col Ferret, the highest pass of the trek
Following the same valley and the river La Drance, we climb to the Grand Col Ferret (8,320ft /2,537m), the highest pass of the tour. Now in Italy, the valley is also called Val Ferret. The mountain views from the col are stunning, with Grandes Jorasses dominating the scene. We walk down the valley to Arp Nouva (5,800ft/1,770m) where we take an optional bus to Planpincieux (5,250ft/1,600m). For the first and last trip of the season, the bus may not be running and we may need to walk to camp.
Today is free for you to rest after the first week’s exertions. The nearby former spa towns of Courmayeur and Entrèves have picturesque older areas that are worth a visit, especially for keen photographers. We also highly recommend the Skyway cable car from La Palud to Point Helbronner (11,350ft/3,461m), which gives close-up views of all the big peaks. Tickets for the cable car can be purchased online or locally at La Palud. Alternatively you might wish to relax and recover in the spa baths at Pre Saint Didier a short bus ride from Courmayeur. It is recommended to book in advance for the spa to avoid disappointment, by clicking https://www.qcterme.com/en/pre-saint-didier/qc-terme-pre-saint-didier .
Campsite: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Val Ferret
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
8
Climb to Bonatti refuge and traverse high above the spectacular Val Ferret around Mont de la Saxe to Courmayeur and on to Val Veny
We start with a short bus ride to pick up the Tour du Mont Blanc route, and from the road (5,500ft/1,675m) climb up to the Bonatti refuge (6,640ft/2,025m). Today, we follow a beautiful contouring path around Mont de la Saxe to Courmayeur. The views of the south Mont Blanc massif are exceptional, as are those of the towering peaks of the Grandes Jorasses and the glaciers that crowd the northern flank of the Val Ferret. In the afternoon, we have a long, steep descent to Courmayeur (4,030m/1,230m) where there will be time to stop for a tasty Italian gelato before taking a short bus ride into the spectacular Val Veny (5,020ft/1,530m).
Re-enter France across Col de la Seigne and through La Ville des Glaciers to Les Chapieux
Today’s trail climbs gently along the Val Veny, beneath the moraine of the massive Glacier du Miage. Passing Lac Combal, the gradient becomes steeper as we follow the old Roman road across the Col de la Seigne pass (8,250ft/2,516m), marking our re-entry into France. A fairly steep descent brings us through La Ville des Glaciers (5,870ft/1,789m) and finally to Les Chapieux (5,090ft/1,553m), a small hamlet only inhabited in summer. This is one of the longer walking days, but the experience of walking beneath a glacier and over the Col de la Seigne pass make the challenge well worth it.
Climb to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme and contour around to Col du Bonhomme
We have now reached the southwest corner of the circuit and turn north to climb once again. Today is a longer day; first we make a steep climb to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (8,130ft/2,478m) and then contour around to the Col du Bonhomme (7,640ft/2,328m). We then descend (again on a Roman road) to our campsite in Les Contamines (5,900ft/1,180m).
A chance to rest or enjoy independent exploration. There are short and long optional walks in the area, many accessed by a chairlift or gondola, with spectacular views of Mont Blanc. Mountain cafes make a nice place for a scenic lunch. Alternatively, you could take the Mont Blanc cog-driven tramway to the Eagle’s Nest – the starting point for many aiming to conquer Mont Blanc itself. Otherwise, time can be spent visiting the half-day market in Les Contamines, or you can simply relax around town or in camp and recharge your batteries for the days ahead.
Campsite: Camping le Pontet, Les Contamines
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
12
Cross Col de Tricot and Col de Voza to re-enter Chamonix Valley and descend to village of Les Houches
Today will be another long but rewarding day as we return to the start point of our trek. We walk through Les Contamines, ascend to Chalets du Truc (5,614ft/1,720m) and then descend to the Chalets de Miage (4,120ft/1,560m). From here, we take the trail that climbs steeply to the Col de Tricot (6,950ft/2,119m) before descending very close to the snout of the Glacier de Bionnassay, where we will enjoy fabulous views of the northern side of the Mont Blanc massif. Eventually, we make another short ascent to reach the Col de Voza (5,418ft/1,652m), where we re-enter the Chamonix Valley and descend to the village of Les Houches (dependent on the time of year, there is an optional cable car descent from Bellevue to Les Houches). A short bus ride takes us to our camp in Les Bossons (3,320ft/1,012m).
Some of the best views of Mont Blanc today on the long ascent to Brévent; descend to Plan Praz
We cross to the north side of the Chamonix Valley and climb through a pine forest. The high point of the day is Brévent (8,290ft/2,525m), from where there are panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and Chamonix Valley. We walk down to Plan Praz (6,460ft/1,970m), then descend by cable car to Chamonix and walk to our camp at Les Bossons (3,320ft/1,012m). It is possible to take the cable car descent from the top (dependent on the time of year). This extra journey will be payable locally should you choose not to walk.
Our last day on the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit is long, with a tough climb of more than 4,920ft (1,500m), but affords the best views on the whole trek of Mont Blanc and neighbouring peaks. On our return to Les Bossons, we will have successfully completed the Tour du Mont Blanc.
Today is a free day for optional walks or sightseeing. Your leader can advise you of possible walking routes or you may choose to visit the bustling alpine resort town of Chamonix, which has numerous shops, bars, restaurants and cafes. There are several cable car excursions you can make from Chamonix, of which the most spectacular is the ascent to the Aiguille du Midi (12,600ft/3,842m), offering fantastic views of Mont Blanc and surrounding peaks. It should also be possible to take the mountain train up to Montenvers for close-up views of the Mer de Glace glacier, or if you are feeling adventurous you could enjoy a tandem paragliding flight.
Campsite: Camping Les Marmottes, Les Bossons
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer to Geneva; fly to London
For those on the group flight, this will depart in the morning and will arrive in the UK the same day.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
15
End Les Bossons
The adventure comes to an end in Les Bossons after breakfast. Start your return journey home, and perhaps start planning your next great walking adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip is graded Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging) – it involves 10 days of walking; two days at a Moderate level and eight days at a Challenging level. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Most of the days are long, quite often involving an ascent of 900m-1,200m (or 3,000ft-4,000ft), equivalent to three to four hours walking uphill, followed by a similar descent. Although the paths are well maintained, there are sections that are rough underfoot with sometimes loose rocks, so you need to be confident in your footing and balance. On Day 2, there are two metal ladders to descend en route from Lac Blanc. These are secured against the rock, consist of approximately 12 steps and are not difficult to climb down. The route throughout is non-technical; however, we will be walking mountain paths and this trip is not advised for severe vertigo sufferers.
Please be aware that on Days 6 and 8, we take a short bus transfer to avoid trekking on busy roads.
Most people trek the Tour du Mont Blanc anti-clockwise. From years of experience, we have discovered that trekking the route clockwise allows for quieter trails and avoids a tough ascent on the first couple of days. The views and walks are just as beautiful in this direction.
As this is a group holiday, you need to be confident your fitness will allow you to enjoyably walk at a consistent and steady pace that matches the group average, therefore allowing the group to finish the day at a reasonable time. You will also enjoy the trek a great deal more if your fitness allows you to walk the route in relative ease. A Challenging graded day would be equivalent to walking between three to five hours uphill and a similar time downhill, so up to nine hours in total depending on the pace (including breaks).
Due to the lower altitude, climate and overall comfort of this trek, it is graded Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). The Activity Level reflects the overall endurance required for this trip, not just the ease of any particular walk. Other treks with a higher Activity Level, requiring a higher overall endurance due to their remoteness, lack of facilities or average weather etc, may have shorter, easier walks. Please read the daily itineraries below when making comparisons to other walks/trips you may have done before.
If you are unable to walk during the itinerary and want to opt out of a day, please note this can sometimes be a little tricky, depending on your position on the circuit. To reach the next point, you will need to take a public bus (which run at limited times) or taxi (which can be expensive in more remote locations). Our support vehicle is not suitable for carrying passengers so please be aware of this when deciding to book this trip. If you miss a part of the itinerary, any extra transport, hotel and food cost will be at your expense.
All ascents, descents and walking distances listed below are approximate. We have decided the most accurate method is to map the routes carefully using Google Earth. That said, it is impossible to obtain a completely true figure of the distances walked. Due to the inherent inaccuracies of defining an exact waypoint with a GPS and the cumulative overall inaccuracy this causes, you may find that our distances and GPS distances you obtain on trek with your personal GPS/phone may differ by quite a margin. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start campsite: Camping Les Marmottes, 140 Chem. des Doux, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Phone: +336 13 41 12 50 Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately Airport: Geneva (GVA)
Getting to the start campsite
The start campsite is approximatelya1hr 15min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start campsite relatively easily by taking a bus transfer with a local company. Book this at least a week before your departure date. A shared bus transfer will cost approximately €50 per person one way if booked in advance with our partner Mountain Drop-offs. Book on their website (www.mountaindropoffs.com) and quote the promotional code EXOCHX for a small discount. Please note, the discounted rates only run from 17 June to 17 September in 2023. Outside this time, the full price will be charged.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, we recommend booking a shared transfer in advance with Mountain Drop-offs (please see Make your own way section above). Alternatively, speak to your sales representative to arrange a private transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Les Bossons Location end: Les Bossons
Vaccinations and Health
France
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Italy
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Switzerland
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
Switzerland
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
We provide 14 breakfasts, 10 picnic lunches, eight home-cooked three-course group meals in camp and four group meals in local restaurants. Due to the small size and remoteness of several of these restaurants, and for speed when serving a large group, these will be set menus.
Breakfast: Usually consist of coffee, tea, cereal, yoghurt, fresh fruit, bread and conserves.
Lunch: Picnic-style lunches will normally include bread, cold meat, cheese, sometimes boiled eggs or tinned fish, fresh salad and fresh fruit. You may wish to bring (or purchase locally) snack bars for an extra energy boost during the day.
Evening meal: Whether in camp or in a nearby restaurant, we endeavour to make dinner something to look forward to. Each day there will be a freshly prepared menu for the whole group, consisting of a soup, salad or similar; a main course of meat, fish or vegetarian served with a selection of vegetables and carbohydrates; and a dessert.
Beer, wine, bottled water, coffee, tea or other drinks are not included in the price of evening meals taken in restaurants. Coffee and tea are included with the evening meal when we eat in camp and beer and wine are also available for purchase at a modest cost.
Vegetarians: We happily cater for vegetarians – please inform us at the time of booking.
Vegans: If you adhere to a vegan diet, you may find the variety of food offered to be limited, since veganism is relatively uncommon in this region.
The feedback we receive for the food we serve is great but please be aware that facilities are limited and practicality forces us to put our efforts into making one excellent group meal with a vegetarian option. Of course, any allergies will be respected.
Weather
From late June to early October, expect fair weather. However, all mountain ranges create their own weather patterns and the Alps are no exception. It does rain and can be surprisingly cold at times, especially on the high passes. Daytime temperatures are in the range of 15C-25C (59F-77F) in the valleys, although it can sometimes reach 30C (86F) in July and August; 5C-15C (41F-59F) on the passes, though it will feel colder if wet and windy; and 5C to 15C (41F-59F) in the valleys at night, possibly a little lower early and late in the season. There is always the possibility of lying snow, especially in the early season, and snowfall even in August and September, when we may find new snow on the passes. Please note, the days are shorter on September treks, so we start early to make the most of the available daylight.
Comfortable camping
The campsites are in stunning settings and sharing an after-trek drink with newly made friends as the sun sets over a glaciated mountain is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors.
Campsites: The chosen campsites are comfortable and modern. On 12 nights, hot showers are available and there are electricity points to recharge batteries. Many campsites have a bar and wifi, plus a lounge or sitting area. We provide a large communal tent (if we do not use the communal area in the campsite), where we eat at tables with benches and have an unlimited tea and coffee station, plus a camp bar. Two remote campsites are in stunning locations but are a little more basic than others and do not have showers. We eat in restaurants on these nights.
Camp life: Accompanying you throughout the trek is a dedicated camp support leader who takes care of the logistics and catering. Your tent is put up for you each night. In the morning, you will be asked to take your tent down (this should take no more than three to four minutes), put your bag in the back of the van and wash your breakfast dish. On four nights out of 14, you will be asked to join a washing up team and help with the dishes that evening – a 20-minute job. Otherwise, you are free to relax and your time is your own.
Tents and equipment: All our equipment is bought with both comfort and practicality in mind and we hope represents a higher quality than most individuals would buy for themselves.
You spend 14 nights camping in roomy waterproof tents designed to sleep three people, but with a maximum of two people per tent. We use modern dome tents incorporating a 6.9ft x 6.9ft (2.1m x 2.1m) inner tent with sewn-in ground sheet and a supplementary 7.5ft x 2.3ft (2.3m x 0.7m) covered porch that is an ideal place to leave your walking boots and poles.
Single tents are available for a small additional cost, as are camping mats and sleeping bags with liner and pillow. Our full-length camping mats are filled with air and foam, which is comfortable to sleep on and provides excellent insulation from the ground. Our sleeping bags have a synthetic filling, as opposed to feathers, with a three-quarter-length zip and provide plenty of warmth.
Worth knowing
Thermal mattress hire: Approximately £36 – please request in advance with your sales representative.
Sleeping bag hire (three- or four-season), pillow and liner: Approximately £73 – please request in advance with your sales representative.
Epic views and a great challenge - Loved every minute of it!
This is an excellent trek. Definitely a challenging hike as you are either going up or going down – both can be as tough! This tour is definitely worth the challenge though – the scenery is spectacular every day of the hike! Exodus have organised a great trek, with welcomed rest days in between hiking days. The campsites are great – a couple of wild ones with little amenities, however this gives you the opportunity to bath in the rivers to sooth those tired feet!
Most Inspirational Moment
Waking up everyday to see the most beautiful views of the alps and sharing that feeling with other like-minded people - and of course completing the tour!
Thoughts on Group Leader
We were fortunate to have Jeffry as our group leader - He is a very experienced, enthusiastic and inspiring guide who shared his vast knowledge on the geology, flora and fauna of the area. He set a good pace for the group and his guiding was very considerate. He was very caring, adaptable and had a great sense of humour. I loved the morning warm up we did before starting off each day!
Jeffry was assisted in camp with Albert - He would set up camp for us and greet us with biscuits and a hot drink or a cold beer (from his honesty bar) after a long day hiking. We had some great camp meals cooked by Albert - often more favourable than the restaurants! They made a great welcoming team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Like other reviewers have mentioned - be prepared for long days hiking. We were up and off by 7:30am most days after making lunches and packing up camp - we would arrive at camp between 4-5pm most days. We were very fortunate with the weather in Aug/Sept and only had one day of rain and no snow, however wet weather would definitely add to the challenge. If you are prepared to muck-in around camp every morning & night after a long day then this tour is for you!
That said, I would highly recommend this tour - you will not regret it!
Pauline Rochefort
Reviewed September 2024
Amazing TMB!
Exodus Travel provided excellent trip planning and booking support. They followed up with timely information. A great adventure travel company! The TBM camping trek itself was very demanding but at the same time thrilling and rewarding. I found the ascents and descents to be equally difficult and challenging. My stamina, endurance and physical skills were continuously tested. The panoramas were exquisite and at every twist and turn along the trail, I was surprised by another equally beautiful scene. I completed the trek feeling healthier and stronger.
Most Inspirational Moment
Arriving at all summits along the TMB is very inspiring. As I write this review, I have returned home and I find myself constantly reliving each day of the journey. The whole experience has been wonderful. I also enjoyed the activities provided along the trek such as kayaking, swimming, the spa, country village visits etc... We were fortunate to do the trek at the same time as the 2024 edition of the UTMB… it was an exciting time to be in Chamonix. I can’t imagine running on the mountain trails all night as these runners do as part of the UTMB. And so I also walk away very inspired by Adventure Racers.
Thoughts on Group Leader
I really appreciated that Exodus made sure we were supported by an elite International Mountain Leader. Our guide Tim was extraordinary! He had a calm and confident demeanor that was reassuring when we tackled rocky outcrops along the trail, as well as steep climbs and difficult descents. He set a good steady walking pace, and was flexible with members of our group who liked to walk faster and some slower, such as myself. That said I was so happy (and proud) when on the last day I was able to follow the group to the top of that day’s summit without falling behind. Tim was “top-of-class” in terms of his mountaineering knowledge and skills, as well as his ability to pass on information about the local fauna, flora and cultural elements. Tim helped group members when it was difficult, thereby ensuring everyone's success with the TMB. We were also very well supported at camp by Kieron, our Camp Leader and great Chef. He went out of his way to make sure the camp was comfortable and that everyone was provided with a great culinary experience. I liked the mix of camp and restaurants.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Ensure you have trail shoes or boots with a thick sole as there are many sharp rocks. I highly recommend poles, and picking a day pack sack that is not too big and heavy. (ps …Also say yes to paragliding at the end of the trek. Although I suffered from motion sickness, I am very happy to have done it!)
Pauline Rochefort
Reviewed September 2024
Amazing TMB!
Exodus Travel provided excellent trip planning and booking support. They followed up with timely information. A great adventure travel company! The TBM camping trek itself was very demanding but at the same time thrilling and rewarding. I found the ascents and descents to be equally difficult and challenging. My stamina, endurance and physical skills were continuously tested. The panoramas were exquisite and at every twist and turn along the trail, I was surprised by another equally beautiful scene. I completed the trek feeling healthier and stronger.
Most Inspirational Moment
Arriving at all summits along the TMB is very inspiring. As I write this review, I have returned home and I find myself constantly reliving each day of the journey. The whole experience has been wonderful. I also enjoyed the activities provided along the trek such as kayaking, swimming, the spa, country village visits etc... We were fortunate to do the trek at the same time as the 2024 edition of the UTMB… it was an exciting time to be in Chamonix. I can’t imagine running on the mountain trails all night as these runners do as part of the UTMB. And so I also walk away very inspired by Adventure Racers.
Thoughts on Group Leader
I really appreciated that Exodus made sure we were supported by an elite International Mountain Leader. Our guide Tim was extraordinary! He had a calm and confident demeanor that was reassuring when we tackled rocky outcrops along the trail, as well as steep climbs and difficult descents. He set a good steady walking pace, and was flexible with members of our group who liked to walk faster and some slower, such as myself. That said I was so happy (and proud) when on the last day I was able to follow the group to the top of that day’s summit without falling behind. Tim was “top-of-class” in terms of his mountaineering knowledge and skills, as well as his ability to pass on information about the local fauna, flora and cultural elements. Tim helped group members when it was difficult, thereby ensuring everyone's success with the TMB. We were also very well supported at camp by Kieron, our Camp Leader and great Chef. He went out of his way to make sure the camp was comfortable and that everyone was provided with a great culinary experience. I liked the mix of camp and restaurant meals.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Ensure you have trail shoes or boots with a thick sole as there are many sharp rocks. I highly recommend poles, and picking a day pack sack that is not too big and heavy. (ps …Also say yes to paragliding at the end of the trek. Although I suffered from motion sickness, I am very happy to have done it!)
Catherine Newbold
Reviewed August 2024
Awesome couple of stunningly challenging weeks.
This trip was a fabulous challenge, hard but very rewarding. We had some big thunderstorms to contend with & a good amount lying snow in July (spikes required). Luckily the sun was out for the big view, high pass days. The scenery was just awesome, stunning mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, pretty villages and much more. A great sense of achievement, Loved it.
Most Inspirational Moment
The trip as a whole was inspiring, you can only be inspired when walking and camping in such an environment. The most inspiring thing though was the kindness of those in our group, including both leaders, heartwarming indeed.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Egle, our trek leader was great. Friendly, supportive, informative and had a great sense of humour (definitely needed with us lot)
Albert, our camp leader was also great. A friendly and very kind soul. Albert keep us fed very well, perfectly preparing us for those big day.
Could not thank them more xx
Advice for Potential Travellers
If your thinking of doing this trip go for it. Camping can be hard at times but also bonds you with the group very quickly and the locations of the camp sites are just stunning. It is a most unforgettable adventure full of breathtaking views and breathtaking ascents.
Michelle Claxton
Reviewed August 2024
So many 'wow' moments!
If you are a seasoned walker not afraid of some big hills, and enjoy seeing spectacular views, then this is the trip for you. Each of the 10 days of walking brought with them different challenges, offset by the amazing views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks. Ably led by our Exodus leader, Maria, the group were encouraged to walk at a sensible pace each day, enabling us to reach our campsite mid-afternoon to enjoy some down time, before doing it all again the next day! Maria was incredibly supportive, checking in on everyone, yet took a sensible and safety-first approach when due to various reasons, people couldn’t walk for a day or so, advising them not to try and to re-join the tour in a day or so. His knowledge of the trails and the area was excellent. The tents and sleeping mats (we hired) were fine for the trip. The tents were roomy enough for 2 and the mats comfortable enough for our weary bodies to get some decent sleep! 2 nights of heavy rain and not a single leak in the tent was also a bonus! The campsites are fine – 2 are very basic with no showers (be prepared for a cold wash!) and only a couple of basic toilets (lots of flies!), but the remainder have showers and often laundry facilities too. The two basic campsites are next to very refreshing rivers so this was also very welcome to cool off!
Maris was assisted in camp by Albert, cooking us some delicious meals and taking into account dietary requirements. Vegetarians were catered for well but as a big meat eater, I did struggle having vegetarian meals for several of the nights. Be warned, Albert loves adding mushrooms to everything!! In Albert’s van he had a fridge with an honesty bar (beer, wine, coke, chocolate) and also an extension lead to charge phones and devices. In the morning, we had to help load our bags and tents plus cooking bits into Albert’s van. If everyone helps it is a 10 minute job.
Walking days were challenging. Some days long and moderate, other days shorter but tough. The hardest day comes near the end of the trip, in my opinion, with 1500m plus of altitude gained! For those of you familiar with Snowdon, this is up the Pyg track twice consecutively, with similar gradients to match the top section! Lots of breaks make the walking and ascents achievable.
Most Inspirational Moment
Aside from finishing the whole trek on the last day after a very long, tiring day with lots of ascent I would have to say just the views! Most days you get a glimpse of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks and the sunrises and sunsets over the mountains are just incredible at the start and end of each day.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Maria was great. He was down to earth, took into account everyone's walking abilities and experience and also had a great sense of humour which we noticed more and more as he got to know us during the trip. Considering he had only done a few trips for Exodus, he seemed extremely knowledgeable and it was as if he had been leading TMB trips for many years.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for long days (7-8 hours) and lots of uphills! Do not underestimate the info in the trip notes! Because you have to re-pack your bag every morning to be loaded onto the van, this can be tricky if your sleeping bag had to go into your kit bag first. If possible I would suggest hiring a sleeping bag as others in my group did - they are warm and of good quality, plus they gat transported outside of your kit bag. Your own sleeping bag does not (despite the trip notes info! Hire a sleeping bag to make packing less stressful in the morning!! Bring Euros for the refuges, for drinks and snacks, as not all of them take cards (most do but internet and wifi is patchy). Bring both a European and UK plug for your devices as there were both types in the van and if all the UK ones are full, you can use the European ones - Even better, bring one converter with 2 or more USB ports and everyone will be your friend!
On rest days visit La Contamines for the market - buy some cheese for the evening, then get the bus to Saint Germaine for lunch - it is a lovely town with lots of bars and restaurants. If finances allow, take the cable car from Courmayeur to Pont Helbronner, then buy a ticket (can't buy in advance) to go across to Aiguille du Midi - amazing views of the glaciers and Mont Blanc. As of Aug 24 the complete ride on the two cable cars cost around £80. On the final rest day we went paragliding in Chamonix. Again this is a must do if finances allow and you have a head for heights! Plenty of lovely bars and restaurants in Chamonix too for your last day.
Matthew Wright
Reviewed July 2024
Amazing 2 weeks
This trip was exactly as stated and expected and fulfilled a 10 year plus dream to walk in the Alps. The tents were roomy and provides bedding, comfortable and warm. The location of the camps were spectacular with amazing views and atmosphere. Camp food was plentiful and delicious, perfect for fuelling a full days walking. The arrangement of the trip made complete sense in respect of gauging group ability, easing in, resting up before tough stretches and preparation for the final days.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the high point of Grand Col Ferret and being unexpectedly overcome with emotion.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Maria was a great leader, ensuring group safety, allowing all to walk at their own pace and having a friendly, approachable character, he was fun to be with. Albert as the camp leader was efficient and attentive and creative with meals.
Advice for Potential Travellers
You can probably pack a bit less than you think, 3 f each, max 4 will likely do. Plenty of water available along the routes, charging electrical really was no problem, except 1 site with no electricity supply.
Peter Carne
Reviewed July 2024
Meeting the challenge of the Tour du Mont Blanc
A challenging, but ultimately rewarding trek with awe inspiring views of an amazing and stunningly beautiful mountain landscapes. A real test of fitness on most days. An ability to adapt to testing conditions on each day’s walk and while camping (during heavy thunderstorms at times) definitely needed. However once we had finished, the sense of achievement was just so satisfying. A memorable trip we will never forget.
Most Inspirational Moment
Views of Mont Blanc on good weather days. Meeting the challenge of climbing high peaks and cols. Spending time with friendly and supportive like minded travellers. Multitudes of wildflowers. Great food.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Friendly, interesting and with a good sense of humour. Essential at times!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be fit for several long, hard and challenging days. Be prepared for all weathers. We encountered low lying snow in July, tricky river crossings, overnight thunderstorms and heavy rain. But also brilliant sunshine! Camping not always easy, so a positive attitude and sense of humour useful. But a trip of a lifetime, made even more fulfilling by overcoming all challenges. A real adventure, not to be missed.
Debra Jackson
Reviewed July 2024
TMB - Camping is a great way to do it!
If you like hill walking and fancy an adventure, this has to be on your itinerary!
Most Inspirational Moment
There were many. The scenery is epic! One evening, I fell asleep to the sound of a glacial river and cow bells ringing. Surrounded by snow capped mountains and flower filled meadows. Blissful Zen! Unforgettable.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We were very fortunate to be assigned Adrián as our mountain leader. We felt very safe in his capable and experienced hands. He provided an overview each evening on the following day’s route and made sure we understood what equipment and clothing would likely be required for that days walking. His humour, energy and enthusiasm kept us all energised and engaged. All of us finished the TMB feeling a little sad to be saying goodbye.
And, we just as fortunate to be assigned Kieron as our camp leader. Not only was there a delicious 3 course meal every evening but cold beers and a proper Yorkshire tea brew were waiting for us on our return to camp. Kieron is a joy to be around. Always interested in learning about everyone’s day, he went out of his way to look after our group’s varying needs. Kieron has a wealth of experience to call upon if you’d like to know anything about the local area.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Being hill fit will be advantageous. There are some long walks, ascents and descents. Nothing particularly technical but walking poles and spikey crampons (when snow is still lying around) I felt, were worth bringing.
There’s plenty of opportunities to wash and dry clothes so no need to bring too much stuff. The Exodus suggested pack list is useful.
Anne Harding
Reviewed July 2024
A wonderful trip with fabulous views
This ranks as one of my all-time favourite trips. The hiking was sometimes tough, with long ascents and occasional snow traverses, river crossings and snow bridges, but we were rewarded with fabulous, far-reaching views. Opening our tent-flaps in the morning to see snow-topped mountains was breathtaking. Our guide (Adrian) and cook/camp leader (Kieron) were excellent.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were many inspiring moments along the way, but reaching the high point on the last day and looking out over the Mont Blanc massif was very special.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide (Adrian) was wonderful. He kept us all safe, well-informed and entertained, and created a great spirit of camaderie in our group. Our camp leader/cook (Kieron) was also excellent. The food was delicious and plentiful, and he made sure that tea, coffee, beer and tents were always waiting for us at the end of the day. We couldn’t have had a better team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Get fit before your trip because you will enjoy it more. Don’t be put off by the camping! I think this aspect of the trip helped our group to bond and made the whole experience more enjoyable.
Fraser Harding
Reviewed July 2024
A fantastic two weeks in the Alps
A very well organised and excellently led trek over an iconic alpine route. There are plenty of spectacular views of the Mt. Blanc massif and a good variety of trails from river valleys to forested climbs and from alpine meadows to rocky mountaintop paths.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were many inspirational moments and picking one out is difficult. I’d say climbing to the top of Brévent on the final day and seeing the extent of the Mt. Blanc range we’d walked around ranks very high.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Adrian, our group leader, was excellent. He was knowledgeable, providing informative briefings each evening about the next day’s walking. He was great fun and seemed to have an unlimited store of energy and enthusiasm (even when faced with yet another damp start to the day). He looked out for everyone and was supportive to anyone struggling on a particular day.
Kieron, our camp leader, was equally good. He cooked great food, and plenty of it. He was always cheerful and is very knowledgeable about the region and highly experienced. Tents were always set up and waiting for us, whatever the weather. The bar was always well stocked. He went out of his way to ensure any individual catering requests were met.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The trek involves some long days and big ascents and descents so ensure you’re in good shape for up to 8 hours walking with lots of up and down. If you’re unsure about the camping, go for it - it’s good fun. As a camping group we became a very close team, benefiting from the collaboration in camp. Bring good waterproofs and bring a power bank for your electronics.
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Land Only Trip Price£ 2599£ 2599
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Land Only Trip Price£ 2599£ 2599
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Optional Single Supplement+£ 200
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