Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers
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317 Reviews
4.8 out of
5
Reviews
Krystyna Kiel
Reviewed June 2016
Highlights of Mount Blanc in bad weather
This was a terrible weather week. The mountains were visible on our arrival and for about 30 minutes on our free day. I had an injury that kept me from hiking, but everyday I welcomed a bedraggled group. Their reviews varied from awful to nice walk, but no views.
Most Inspirational Moment
The gondola up to the Aguille de Midi. The views were spectacular. But these were on our own.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Not the appropriate leader for non-climbers (which he is). I don't know how flexible the trip was, but the weather (the week that paris had its floods) dampened everything. The free day should have been switched with another day, for it had the best weather. Our guide went climbing with friends. I had asked our guide, as I couldn't hike, as to whether there were any drop off points that I could return from by myself. The opportunity to go to Italy was sprung on me as the group left. I couldn't manage that fast; I found that irritating.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pick a season of least rain.
Lynn Nicol
Reviewed June 2016
Mont Blanc Highlights
I recently went on this trip and as per usual I enjoyed another Exodus adventure. We enjoyed sunny days, blue skies and warm weather for early June. Lots of snowy mountain tops all around us. The timing was perfect as the previous two weeks were showers, bleak days.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing Mont Blanc from our Chalet windows and being surrounded by snowy mountain tops. The Alpine flowers were wonderful.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Nick was very professional and knew this area.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The days were quite warm and sunny for early June considering there had been a late winter. We got sunburnt a couple of days. Don't be disappointed if it rains We did have some brief showers but nothing to spoil our daily walking. It was raining the Saturday we departed so maybe the next group would have had rain. The previous group to us had rain. We just had a lucky week with good weather.
Sharwari Deshpande
Reviewed October 2015
Alpine spirit
Alpine spiritMont Blanc highlights – Guided walk – 03.10.2015 to 10.10.2015- Sharwari DeshpandeI stood in the balcony of our pretty chalet, gazing humbly at the Alps, hoping they would welcome us. Then I looked a bit higher, at the blue sky and made a silent appeal for the weather to be favorable. I sensed the invitation as well as the approval, the optimism, generating some warmth in me in spite of the chill in the open balcony. En-route to Chamonix, anxiety peeped through the colouring foliage, it was a one and a half hour ride in the bus with Mark, our guide and the other team mates. Settling down in the Chalet was easy, after which we explored charming Chamonix. A river flowing busily beneath a bridge, sports shops, eateries, chocolateries, lots of flowers everywhere, friendly people and of course a cute little train crossing by, did a great deal to raise the spirits. Supper times in the chalet, promising to please, chatting, sipping wine with the team mates and enjoying the hospitality of the wonderful hosts, Jane and Collins. The edible delicacies that the culinary expert in Jane dished out, were always looked forward to. The meals were well presented, appetizing and always followed by simply irresistible Desserts. The walks were not easy but not too difficult. A certain level of fitness is required. One should be able to run, may be 5 Km in 30-35 minutes and walk for 8 hours. Anything less than that is bound to hold up other members of the group who are fit. The trek was graded as moderate but the definition of Moderate was not given so I thought of providing one as per my understanding. We were a team of 8 people. 6 from UK, and two of us from India. One solo woman was older, around 70 and one 25 year old young man. All the rest were within 40 to 50 years of age. The older woman had to drop out on the first day as she could not catch up with the others. On the last day, 2 of them dropped out. The rest of us completed the 5 day trek. The walks provided spectacular views and we were blessed with good weather. Apart from fitness, these are requisites which make the trek enjoyable. We were fascinated as we explored around the Mont Blanc, passing through three countries France, Switzerland and Italy. Mark knew the route well and also had a fair understanding of the weather forecast. We walked almost 7 to 8 hours for five days. Day one was Orientation. On the second day, we went from Montroc to Aiguettes des posettes at 2201 m height. Col de Posettes to Chalet du Balme and from Le tout back to Montroc. The third day, we walked through the Merlet national park, spotting some red deer and gazelles inside a fenced area. We stopped at a very picturesque refuge, Bellechat at 2259 m. From here to Aguettes des houches, chalet Chailloux and then to Bettey parking where the car took us back to the Chalet Chamonix. This was an interesting and long walk through the woods. It was drizzling and the ground was wet and slippery and we had to watch every step. Day four was free day. The free day was spent in sight seeing and shopping in Chamonix and at night dinner at a plush restaurant with the team mates, followed by drinks at the Jekyll and Hyde pub ! Day Five took us to Col de Voza from Maison Neuve. We stopped for lunch near the Passerelle bridge, moving on to Le Champel and then to La gruvaz. The next day was interesting as we walked on the Italian side. We drove through the Mont Blanc tunnel(22 miles) to Italy, walked through the Bonnatti refuge, moving further to the beautiful Ferret valley and ending at Courmayeur. On the last day we started from Col de Montet. Then from Windy point to Lac Chesery, a calm and serene place. On the way stopping at La Floria and then the unending walk through sloping loops, into Chamonix outskirts and back to Chalet. The 2 minute standing stops were timed so well, they gave some relief after a steep climb. There were some adrenaline moments, wherein the road was narrow or no road, climbing on large stones, slippery road but Mark was careful and helped wherever required. Almost every time after this, on the next turn, full of beauty, the landscape would be treat to the eyes. The five days brought to us different flavors. The first day introduced us to the Alps. We were awestruck by the breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc, Aguille du Midi. The walk through the woods of Merlet National park was interesting. It rained on one of the days and that too was enjoyable, gave opportunity for the poncho to be worn. Most of the packed lunches we had, by a stream, lake , very scenic refuges. These beautiful locations refreshed and replenished the energy. Café au lait in a cute café on the way on one of the days, provided the ‘high’ which had me almost romping downhill. I was most delighted to have the yummiest Hot chocolate at Café Bonatti. The chocolate walnut biscuit was great accompaniment. This also helped to infuse some enthusiasm. The Café is named after the legendary Italian climber Walter Bonatti. Photos of the climber were displayed in the Café. We enjoyed great views of the hills during a balcony walk. Climbing on the Italian side exciting. At the end of the long stretch, we had ice cream at the Gelateria in the cute Italian town of Courmayeur. The most exciting moment was when we spotted the Ibex and Chamois grazing in the mountains. They were indifferent to our ogling and continued with their meal hungrily. It was good to know they felt safe and did not flee at the sight of humans. The last day was longest but Mark took us, on the route, to the ‘ Chalet Floria’ , floral extravaganza in a Café. We had the nicest blue berry cake and myrtille yoghurt but what gladdened the heart was the flower garden so well maintained, colourful and lovely. We were once again rejuvenated to carry on our long trail, on the last day, back to cosy little chalet Chamonix. To summarize, this was the most well organized, efficiently guided walk, at a splendid location with excellent company of like minded and fit fellow trekkers, hosted at the chalet with great warmth and care.This was indeed the best way to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary and my husband Upen and I will cherish every moment. Thank you Exodus.
Most Inspirational Moment
I was inspired by the mountains, their loftiness, beauty, the challenge on rough tracks. I was inspired by the guide Mark's fitness and understanding of the route. I was inspired by different things from each of my team members as well as the hosts. I was inspired by the consciousness every trekker had for maintaining the alpine environment clean and litter free. The inspiration is what gave me the strength to proceed and reach the destination
Thoughts on Group Leader
Mark was experienced and efficient. Knew the route well. He was disciplined and took correct decisions.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Fitness criteria - You must be able to run 5 Km in 30-35 minutes and if you can walk for 7 to 8 hours on each day. Take the tour only if you comply. Prepare/train yourself well for above - It is worth the efforts
Samantha Hutton
Reviewed October 2015
Mont Blanc Highlights
Chalet was lovely and hosts Jane and Colin just the best people. Cordial, hilarious, amazing chefs and always willing to lend a hand or correct you on your pronunciation of ‘croissant’.. Loved them.
Hot tub was very much appreciated after a long day trekking.
Don’t take this trip lightly, it can be pretty tough in places and would not grade this as Moderate but more Moderate – Strenuous. Don’t let that put you off, it is a gorgeous trip in every way and you will hobble away from this feeling pretty damn wonderful!
Most Inspirational Moment
Day 2.. stopping for lunch and having the Alps appear through a cloud forest before us. Was just amazing, will never forget how close they were or how hard they were to climb up
Thoughts on Group Leader
Mark was very much at home on the mountain
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you use poles bring them, if you don't or haven't used them before then don't buy any especially. You either know how to walk with them or you don't and this is not the place to learn. Tough mornings up and even tougher afternoons down. Make sure you have some fitness before you arrive.
James Woods
Reviewed October 2015
Mt. Blanc highlights
Mt. Blanc highlights was an enjoyable experience. First was the easy connection at the Geneva airport and spacious bus ride to the chalet. Then all the great scenery of Mt. Blanc and the surrounding peaks, which was made possible by a moderately paced hike to great viewpoints picked by a local leader, did not disappoint. The morning rides to the trailheads were quick and would have probably taken me half the day to find. The trip also offered a wide array of participants from several countries which made for interesting conversation with like minded people. Last but not least was the great food prepared by the friendly folks at the chalet.
Most Inspirational Moment
The most inspirational moment of the trip was when we were up on the ridge the second day and the fog opened like a stage curtain to reveal a sanctorum of mountain peaks.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The leader gave a briefing the night before for each days hike as well as information both historically and geologically during the hike. The pace was moderate with several rest stops to reach viewpoints 3000 feet in elevation gain where the views were the best.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I would highly recommend this trip for the reasons already mentioned and also for the opportunity to spend time in Chamonix.
Holly Mulloy
Reviewed September 2015
Mont Blanc Highlights
We enjoyed the trip. The food prepared was fantastic! Our group leader was very nice but we felt that he wasn’t as engaging as other leaders on other trips that we have been on.
Most Inspirational Moment
When we took the gondola up the
Thoughts on Group Leader
As I've previously stated we felt that he was not engaged in the trip as he could have been.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It is a challenging hike. Don't let the 'moderate' ranking fool you.
Dawn Hinkley
Reviewed September 2015
Mont Blanc Highlights
Just returned home from this fantastic trip. We had fabulous weather which made it even more enjoyable. The scenery and views were brilliant and worth every puff and upward step to reach the top to gain them.
Most Inspirational Moment
All the walks were wonderful, the one that really stood out for me was travelling through the Mont Blanc Tunnel into Italy and then walking up to the Bonatti Refuge and being rewarded with a cup of hot chocolate ( which I have to say is the best I have ever tasted).
Thoughts on Group Leader
Mark was very knowledgeable and explained each walking day in detail the night before so we knew what to expect. He was friendly with everyone and pointed out things of interest along the way with amusing stories and anecdotes, keeping us entertained. His 'Alpine Shuffle' kept us all together and enabled all of our group to achieve the assents and descents ensuring nobody was left behind.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I feel that not only do you require a general level of fitness as the brochure states, but ideally, you should also be a regular hill walker as the assents could be challenging for some and descents tiring at the end of the day. This should not put anyone off of this wonderful trip as long as you are confident of your ability.
Alan Finlayson
Reviewed September 2015
Mont Blanc Highlights
A week of trekking in the Chamonix valley and various parts of the Mont Blanc circuit, with time to relax and unwind in a comfortable chalet in Chamonix.
Most Inspirational Moment
The stunning views of the glacier and snow capped summit of Mont Blanc from most parts of the trekking routes but also from the chalet (whilst relaxing in the hot tub)!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Group leader was knowledgeable, friendly and easy going
Advice for Potential Travellers
Every day's walk starts from one valley or another which requires a steep uphill walk, this obviously means that a steep descent is required at the end of the day. Walking poles and good footwear are really a necessity
CINDY TATHAM
Reviewed September 2015
Mont Blanc Perfection
A very enjoyable trip which exceeded my expectations. Stunning scenery, great walks, very comfortable chalet,
fantastic hosts, with great food, and knowledgeable guide.
Most Inspirational Moment
Walking up to the Aguilettes D'Argentiere. Great trekking through woodland, balconies and fantastic views. Overcoming my fear of cable cars and going up to Agulie du Midi and onto Hellbronner. A must if the weather is clear, but take some thermals as it is a lot cooler up there.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Nick was great. He paced the walking to all abilities. He adapted the walks according to the weather. Very knowledgeable about the area.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Although this trip is graded as moderate, the walks do involve quite long periods of up and down hill, some of them quite steep. With this in mind, some pre-trip fitness would be beneficial. A hat and some gloves are useful on cooler days. If you have some binoculars you can see climbers going up Mont Blanc.
Sarah Keefe
Reviewed September 2015
Mont Blanc Highlights
One of the best holidays in years, spending time in stunning alpine scenery with a great group of people. Although it took a few hours to hike up to the summits, the effort was worth the huff and puff. At the end of the day, we were welcomed back to the chalet by home-made cake (nothing like a hike to build up an appetite) and a hot tub to ease tired muscles. Well, as for the evening meals, please can you come and cook for our next dinner party, Jane and Colin?
Most Inspirational Moment
Having a tasty French baguette while sitting at the top of the Aiguillette des Houches, looking across at Mont Blanc, thinking this is the most perfect picnic spot in the world.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide, Nick, was knowledgeable, pointing out plants and places of interest. He kept a steady pace for the group and was sensitive to people's different ability levels, especially when it came to going down hill.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Make sure you do some hiking beforehand so you can enjoy the walks as much as possible. A good level of fitness is definitely needed.
