- Enjoy a 'fast and light' version of the classic TMB
- Take in spectacular views of Mont Blanc
- Experience three countries in one week
Tour du Mont Blanc Week
8 Days
Excluding Flights
8 Days
from
Walking & Trekking
Activity Level
Challenging
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Comfort Level
Classic
Itinerary
Col de la Forclaz Chamonix
Fly to Geneva; transfer to Col de la Forclaz
From Geneva airport, we transfer to the start at the designated hotel at Col de la Forclaz, Switzerland. A short (unguided) walk to view the Trient Glacier is an option this afternoon, depending on arrival time. In the evening, there is an introductory briefing by your leader and time to spilt bags between items to be delivered to the hotel in Chamonix, for the end of the trip, and things you will carry with you.
Accommodation: Hotel Col de la Forclaz, Switzerland (or similar)
Start Col de la Forclaz, Switzerland
We start at the designated hotel at Col de la Forclaz. A short (unguided) walk to view the Trient Glacier is an option this afternoon, depending on arrival time. In the evening, there is an introductory briefing by your leader and time to spilt bags between items to be delivered to the hotel in Chamonix, for the end of the trip, and things you will carry with you.
Accommodation: Hotel Col de la Forclaz, Switzerland (or similar)
Follow the Bovine Route to the pretty village of Champex Lac and on to Orsières
We leave the Col de la Forclaz (5,010ft/1,527m) from where we can look directly down into the Rhône valley and the Swiss town of Martigny. Following our path through the forest and up to high alpine pastures (great for flowers in the early season), the Bovine Route (6,720ft/2,049m) affords dramatic views over Swiss peaks and valleys. After lunch, we descend to Champex (4,880ft/1,486m) and the east side of the Mont Blanc massif. Walking south, we descend through woods to the Val Ferret and onto Orsières (2,910ft/887m), a pretty alpine village in the valley at the foot of the St Bernard Pass.
Accommodation: Hotel de l’Union in Orsières, Switzerland (or similar)
Short bus transfer to La Fouly and climb to the highest point, Grand Col Ferret, and descend into Italy
We hop aboard the local bus to rejoin the TMB at the village of La Fouly (5,250ft/1,600m), which is dominated by the glaciated face of Mont Dolent, whose summit is the meeting point of the French, Swiss and Italian borders. Still following the valley and the river, La Drance, we climb steadily to the Grand Col Ferret (8,320ft/2,537m), the highest pass of the tour. The mountain views from the col are stunning with Grandes Jorasses dominating the scene. Now in Italy, we descend into the valley also called Val Ferret (5,770ft/1,760m) then travel by bus to our hotel in La Palud.
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria in La Palud, Italy (or similar)
Trek from Val Veny over Col de la Seigne to Les Chapieux
We travel by bus to La Visaille (5,450ft/1,660m) then climb gently along the Val Veny beneath the massive glacier de Miage and pass Lac Combal. The gradient becomes steeper as we follow the old Roman road and head for today’s pass: the Col de la Seigne (8,250ft/2,516m), which marks our re-entry into France. A fairly steep descent brings us through La Ville des Glaciers (5,870ft/1,789m) and finally, after a long walking day, to Les Chapieux (5,100ft/1,553m), a small hamlet inhabited only during summer. For departures on the 5/7/25 and 6/9/25 from here we take a private transfer down the valley to our accommodation in Bourg St Maurice.
Accommodation: Auberge de la Nova in Chapieux, France (or similar)
A tougher day over two cols; Croix du Bonhomme and Col du Bonhomme; descend to Les Contamines
A morning transfer back to Les Chapieux, where we have reached the southwest corner of the circuit and we turn north to climb once again. Today is a big day, first we ascend to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (8,130ft/2,479m), then contour across to the Col du Bonhomme (7,641ft/2,329m) and finally descend again on a Roman road into the Val Montjoie and the town of Les Contamines (3,860ft/1,175m). Our path continues through the village and we arrive at our overnight stop with time for a well-deserved cold drink.
Accommodation: Auberge (inn) Gelinotte in Les Contamines, France (or similar)
Over the Col du Tricot to the Chamonix Valley
Another big day! Our route continues with a steady ascent to the Chalets de Miage (5,120ft/1,560m), a great spot to sample home-cooked delicacies. From here, we take a 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 with good views of the north side of the Mont Blanc massif. Eventually, we make another ascent to reach the Col de Voza (5,420ft/1,652m) where we re-enter the Chamonix Valley, and finally descend to the village of Les Houches (3,260ft/993m) and take the bus to our hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Les Lanchers in Chamonix, France (or similar)
Final day trekking past Lac Blanc before descending to Chamonix
Our final day presents perhaps one of our most spectacular walks; trekking a section of the Grand Balcon Sud route past the beautiful and photogenic Lac Blanc (7,715ft/2,352m) with grand vistas over the Chamonix Valley and Mont Blanc behind. Our route then drops sharply down to Chamonix (3,380ft/1,030m) and the end of our trek.
Accommodation: Hotel Les Lanchers in Chamonix, France (or similar)
To Geneva; fly to London
End Chamonix. Transfer to Geneva airport.
End Chamonix
Following breakfast, we say our goodbyes and begin our return journey home.
Essential Info
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz, La Forclaz 2, 1929 Trient
Phone: +41 27 722 26 88
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 hotel
The start hotel is approximately a 1hr 40min 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 hotel easily by taking a train from Geneva to Martigny then onwards by bus or taxi to the Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz. Tickets for this leg of the journey must be purchased locally at Geneva railway station or online here.
Alternatively, if arriving the evening before, you could spend the night in Chamonix and then be picked up by the group transfer in the early afternoon, as it passes through on the way to the start hotel. You can reach Chamonix easily by taking a bus transfer with a local company – make sure to book at least a week before your departure date. A one-way transfer (shared with other travellers) will cost approximately €50 with our partner Mountain Drop-offs. Book on www.mountaindropoffs.com using promotional code EXOCHX for an approximate €5 discount. Discounted rates apply to transfers taking place between 17 June and 17 September.
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: Col de la Forclaz
Location end: Chamonix
Hotels and auberges
Throughout our mountain adventure, we stay in a collection of family-run hotels and auberges, all of which have spent years caring and catering for weary hikers. For the uninitiated, an auberge is equivalent to an inn: modest accommodation (often in a rural setting) that provides a warm, welcoming place to stop for travellers and hikers.
Most of the properties in which we stay offer panoramic views over the Alps, while culturally reflecting the local community. Though most are relatively basic, all are clean, well run and set up with the needs of the trekker in mind, while acting as a vital source of income to the local people.
Worth knowing
- Room sizes are – twin, double, triple or quad. Facilities vary between accommodations and sometimes between rooms within a property.
- On one night, bathroom facilities may be on the landing rather than inside the room (dependent on availability and group size).
- Couples always have their own room but we cannot guarantee whether this will be a twin or double.
- Solo travellers maybe required to share twin, triple or quad rooms.
- We can’t accept bookings for single rooms due to the small size of the hotels used and the fact we are usually staying only one night in each property.
- Due to limited availability, occasionally we may need to change a hotel to one further down the valley, and will provide a bus or taxi transfer.
Reviews
Add your own reviewBeautiful week in the Alps!
I booked this trip last minute to join my mum and cousin and I have no regrets! It was an amazing week of trekking in the most glorious scenery, with an utterly lovely bunch of people. I spent lots of time in the Alps as a child, so this trip was not only nostalgic but also brought me to brand-new places. It was definitely a challenging week but in the best way possible. We were very lucky to have Mariá as our guide, he was generous, kind and patient with us all, sharing his extensive knowledge of the mountains, ecology and wildlife along the way and making us all feel part of the team. The accommodation and food were amazing, despite my awkward dietary requirements, each hotel was a delight in its own way and offered far more comfort than I was expecting. I left the week feeling heart-full and accomplished. What more could you ask for. I highly recommend this trip!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Mariá was a brilliant guide, he showed consistent care for each member of the group, patience and kindness throughout. He was great company and shared his extensive knowledge along the way.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack light, wear in your boots and size up a little to avoid blisters, embrace the grind uphill, the views are worth it!
Amazing, challenging and rewarding
We’ve just returned from this trip and it was amazing. The views are stunning on this trip, Maria was our guide and he was just great. He got us safely round, motivated us when we needed it and was a pleasure to spend time with. The lodges are great, there’s towels and shower gel provided. Some had hairdryers but not all. After a days trekking it was great to have a few drinks and a nice meal with the group, we did the pack ups just for easiness which were pricier but good, there were more options for buying your own stuff the second half of the trek. We ended up with 8kg in our bags and we had everything we needed, packing lightly is the key as you’ve also got water and pack up to carry! Fitness wise it’s a hard but doable trip, the fitter you are the more you’ll enjoy it, the uphills are a slog but the views are worth it. We personally found walking poles a necessity, they saved my joints a lot especially on the downhills. We had a few dips in the rivers but just in our walking gear, it was cold but very refreshing at the end of the day! The last two nights we spent in Chamonix and it was great to have your spare bag for fresh clothes and a few little luxury’s. Highly recommend this trip, if your in doubt just book it, Exodus are a great company to travel with, thanks again Maria for being a great guide!
Most Inspirational Moment
The views on the high passes are just stunning! Finishing everyday feeling like you’ve accomplished something.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Maria was just brilliant, he had the right level of letting us get on with it and managing us when we needed it. He was friendly, personable, funny, knowledgeable and a pleasure to be around. We had some lovely evenings with him, he was great with anyone that was struggling and went above and beyond to help them.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack lightly, follow the trip notes for what you need. Walking poles helped massively. The pack ups are pricier but nice, bed your boots in, take blister plasters if in doubt!
Tour du Mont Blanc Week-Sept 2023
The most epic adventure of my life! Booking and traveling with Exodus was so easy. The communication and responsiveness by the agents was so very helpful in planning my trip. The packing and training tips provided were extremely helpful also. The spectacular views were non-stop. The accommodations were lovely and comfortable and our guide, Hristian, was an absolute rockstar!
Most Inspirational Moment
The views were spectacular and inspirational every day but the defining moment for me was the 5th day ascent to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. It was the longest and most difficult climb of the trip and making it to the top was a defining moment for me personally. All of the people in my group were supportive of each other the whole entire week and some life long friends were made.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We could not have asked for a better group leader. Hristian was knowledgeable about the area, the terrain, each day's challenges, the history and so much more. His extensive experience was very evident and comforting. His friendly, calm demeanor made everyone feel comfortable and he made sure to keep the pace suitable to everyone in the group. Hris truly went over and above for me and the others in the group. The best example is when he carried the packs of 2 of us so that we could make the final cable car of the day down on day 5! His ever present smile and his sense of humor made my experience one I will never forget! Our group became a family for the week and we can thank Hris for that!
Advice for Potential Travellers
TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN!! Follow the training guidelines at a minimum and do not pack or plan to carry anything that is not absolutely essential for the 6 days. Slow down and enjoy the beauty of the people and the scenery that surround you every day!
A superb week in three countries
This is a great trip hiking through three countries and experiencing the best of the Tour du Mont Blanc. We had a great guide – Augustine – who led us safely through all the hikes. We had variable weather – but this was fine. However, come prepared for all weathers, even in the height of summer. The walking is quite challenging and the fitter you are, the more the walks will be enjoyed. Make sure you come with spending money – and Swiss francs are useful for the first couple of days in Switzerland, even though the trip notes say euros are fine (you’ll get a better deal with francs). Switzerland is, obviously, more expensive than Italy and France. Self-catering for packed lunches is quite easy, with local shops etc. If you buy packed lunches, they are over-priced, although generally very good. Included breakfasts and dinners are, overall, excellent. Accommodation – very comfortable and fit for purpose. The hotel in Forclaz, on day one, is the least impressive. Some trip notes details are not as accurate as they could be. This is a superb walking trip through a beautiful area of Europe. It is well worth the expense.
Most Inspirational Moment
Walking in stunning locations and feeling humbled - too many to mention!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent - Augustine clearly loves his job and this was obvious from day 1 to departure day.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take sufficient spending money in euros and some francs, too. Make sure you have enough warm clothes, as well as waterproofs. I recommend a pair of slippers/sandals in your day pack for evening wear. Make sure your walking boots/shoes are supportive and very comfortable. And - enjoy it!
Fabulous week hiking the TMB
Had a wonderful week hiking the TMB, Egle our guide was fantastic (Lot’s of patience) had the most fantastic group of people to hike with. The TMB itself was just outstanding, the ascents were pretty tough going, you are rewarded with the most stunning views.
Most Inspirational Moment
Just being present in the moment of all the wonderful and stunning views.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Egle was just wonderful, lots of patience.
Excellent week on Tour du Mont Blanc!
The week was very well organized and very well led by Egle. The accommodation and food were great and each day’s walk was an adventure.
Most Inspirational Moment
The best moment was when we reached the Grand Col Ferret, with stunning views of the glaciers and the valley ahead.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Egle was very good. She did not rush us and she allowed the faster walkers to go ahead, while keeping an eye on everyone. Her relaxed manner allowed us all to enjoy the week. One of our party fell and badly gashed her head. Egle was very calm and patched her up as much as possible. We then helped the injured person walk about a kilometre to the next refuge where Egle called for a helicopter. I would be happy to do another tour with Egle as leader.
Advice for Potential Travellers
My advice would be to only carry two sets of clothes, one for walking and one for the evening. I think it would be helpful to put this advice in the Exodus literature.
TMB a dream come true
An excellent fulfilled week spent well. Our guide was unbelievably knowledgeable of everything from the mountains to the flowers. Simply couldn’t have asked for a better person to lead us , thanks Jason.
If I were to change anything it would be to introduce a baggage transfer service.
Most Inspirational Moment
Crossing the col ferret - the clouds then cleared to give us the most magnificent scenes of mountains and Mont Blanc
Thoughts on Group Leader
As stated in summary , best guy ever . He cared about each and every one of us and even gave me his poles half way thru the trip when I lost mine! Forever grateful 🥹
Advice for Potential Travellers
This is a challenging trip with long hillwalking days . To enjoy it fully be fit.
A fantastic way to spend a week.
Not easy but very rewarding,especially at my age.the ascents were steady and the views fantastic,but the descents were relentless so some training pays dividends.The accommodation was good as was the food.Our guide was superb having to cope with people who walk at different paces is not easy,as everybody has to be kept as safe as possible .Finally the people in the group were fantastic ,very supportive,willing to share food and medical supplies and the evenings were a riot of humour .Cannot wait to go on another trip.
Most Inspirational Moment
Having sleet and snow on the first day made the views on the second day even better as the peaks were covered in fresh snow as was the Grand Col Ferret,The group made the trip unforgettable,really good company.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide did a great job ,she had time for everybody and spent a lot of time encouraging the slower members of the group without fussing.Her knowledge and organisation were very good so we got to breakfast on time and started our walking on time.She also had a great sense of humour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do some training if you are not hill walking regularly.You will manage the ascents but the descent are long and really give the leg joints some stress.Walking poles certainly helped .Take a small lightweight camera,i took an DSLR and hardly used it ,it was easier to use the phone camera which took good photos.
Great guide, great company, great trip
A fantastic trip. Everything I hoped for and more with a great bunch of fellow travellers and a patient, tolerant and lovely guide (Egle)
Most Inspirational Moment
Crossing the many cols in snow and sun, rain and wind. Cold beers at the end and the enjoyable banter!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Egle was excellent. Patient and good humoured at all times
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack light but take at least three pairs of socks! Yes you can wash them but we found they didn't dry overnight. Synthetic t shirts are a must. Don't forget fresh clothes for Chamonix. Do take gloves and hats. We had snow! For the same reason good boots essential.
Excellent trip
I loved this hiking holiday!! We had some serious hiking on this trip. Long days, some days with really high mileage and good ascent. Our hike leader was excellent, she really knew the area very well and was extremely helpful with practical tips throughout the trip.
Most Inspirational Moment
The most inspirational moment was realisation of doing all that ascent to reach the top of the mountain
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Saturday Saturday
14 Jun 2025 14 Jun 2025
Saturday Saturday
21 Jun 2025 21 Jun 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price 2 640 € Book with 660 € deposit Book with 300 € deposit
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
05 Jul 2025 05 Jul 2025
Saturday Saturday
12 Jul 2025 12 Jul 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price 2 640 € Book with 660 € deposit Book with 300 € deposit
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
19 Jul 2025 19 Jul 2025
Saturday Saturday
26 Jul 2025 26 Jul 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price 2 640 €
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
30 Aug 2025 30 Aug 2025
Saturday Saturday
06 Sep 2025 06 Sep 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price 2 640 € Book with 660 € deposit Book with 300 € deposit
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
06 Sep 2025 06 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
13 Sep 2025 13 Sep 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price 2 640 € Book with 660 € deposit Book with 300 € deposit
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Tour du Mont Blanc Week
8 Days
Excluding Flights
8 Days
from