tour du mont blanc cyclo route

Tour du Mont Blanc Cycle Route

Tour du Mont Blanc

Three tough but epic and rewarding days, biking around this iconic mountain. (all images by Scott Cornish)

Route Information

This is the Tour du Mont Blanc, so what more needs to be said – it’s tough, beautiful and extremely rewarding. Just read the route article below and follow the GPX file, and have an amazing ride!

Stats: 148.8 km and 6,941 metres of ascent

Stats wise, the route was about 151km with 7100m of climbing overall, reaching a high point of over 2600m. We rode from Chamonix, but you can choose any start point.

Day 1 53km 3553m+ (options of 2 télécabine rides reducing climbing by 1800m) Day 2 54km 2133m+ Day 3 44km with 1400m+

Refreshments & Where to Stay

The Chamonix valley is a good base for starting things off, and there’s ample options along the route, but we recommend some using mountain huts, making it a true bikepacking adventure.

Scott and Alan – Tour du Mont Blanc

‘Mountain trails’- Image by Scott Cornish

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most iconic routes in Europe, crossing through 3 countries and made infamous by the annual exploits of 1000’s of ultra runners racing its full 170m length at the UTMB in August. Its technical trails reach heights of over 2600m, for 10,000m of elevation gain with grand views atop every col. High mountain refuges offering hearty feeds are plentiful en route for those opting not to spend the night under the stars, all in stunning locations. It’s not a long route in biking terms, but it’s not to be underestimated for its physical challenge!

Route General

Although the TMB is essentially a hiking path, much of it mountain singletrack, the mtb route options vary in length from the more direct 151km route we followed bikepacking style to 5/6 day 280km+ options, with more lift assisted availability. There is a record, of course, for the fastest self supported traverse of the official 170km route at just over 19 hours, but opting for a more leisurely pace allows you to get the most out of riding this stunning track.

Our chosen variant was a bit shorter, but meant less pushing and more pedalling whilst still retaining the highlights of the TMB. My co-bikepacker for this mini adventure was Alan Colville, a veteran of marathon racing, but who had yet to experience bikepacking. What a great place to start! We opted to be fully self sufficient, carrying light weight tents (I had an MSR 1 person Carbon Reflex), a stove and an Aeropress for the obligatory sunrise coffee. Both of us turned up.in Gore C7 2in1 shorts, ideal all weather long distance wear!

My ride was the Pinnacle Ramin3, a bike with a versatile dual personality. Trail bike one weekend, an ideal bikepacking rig on another. The only part that was swapped out were the tyres; the supplied WTB Trail Boss for lighter, more xc tuned WTB Rangers in a 2.25 width. An alpkit frame bag fitted perfectly into the front triangle, ideal for food and stove portage. All sleeping gear fitted into the front bags, with the tent stowed in the saddle bag along with dry/warm clothes. Despite a forecasted ideal weather window, wet and cold weather gear was still packed. This is the high mountains after all and storms can catch you out unprepared. Besides, this trip was about being comfortable, no suffering here, with warm clothes for evenings and mornings!

Water wise, you’re never far from a source in the Alpes, especially on this popular route, so it’s not necessary to carry much, 2 750ml is easily sufficient.

Image by Scott Cornish

Our route had the option of two lift assists on day 1, significantly reducing the overall climbing, but us being us, we opted to ride every possible vertical metre! The 2nd lift wasn’t open yet anyway, so do check summer opening times if you’d prefer to use the lifts where possible.

Riding anticlockwise from Les Houches, the dirt road climb up to the Col de Voza came all too quickly. This is the 1st lift assist option, missing out this steep track. An 18% average, ramping up to 30%. Need a caffeine refuel after that? The col top cafe is open from early summer! No less steep is the descent, loose and dusty 4×4 track. Caution not to miss the left hand turn, otherwise it’s a tarmac descent into Contamines!

Be wary of shop closing times outside of the official summer season, as they all close between 13h00 and 15h30! We managed to mistime our arrival in Contamines after a relaxed mid morning start, but a few restaurants were open. Being Coeliac, food options were limited for Alan, but we managed to keep him fed along the way. Buckwheat galettes were a great option.

The climb up to the high point of the col de la Croix du Bonhomme is probably the toughest of the route, with a sizeable chunk.of hike-a-bike along the top half, mostly due to the unusual lingering snow from 2200m.

Alps snow & sun – Image by Scott Cornish

High above les Contamines, we approached a bowl surrounded by high peaks, with seemingly no obvious way onwards! It was off and pushing towards the col along tech hiking trail. Not particularly exciting knowing you have a lengthy push ahead, mostly due to the snow, but the endpoint is truly worth the effort. Wet and sometimes deep snow added to.the adventure! From a windswept col du Bonhomme, the snow clad trail to the higher Croix du Bonhomme continued upwards following the mountain’s contours, disappearing into the low slung clouds.

After a couple of sections lugging bikes across steep snow fields, the refuge was a welcome sight through parting cloud. Back on the bikes for a brief descent to the refuge.

Camping day 1 – Image by Scott Cornish

Having arrived later than planned, we took advantage of dinner on offer, having arrived with minutes to spare before they closed the kitchen! A great decision as it turned out, with gluten free polenta and a hearty beef stew on the menu. Not so palatable if you were vegetarian though. Even with the inviting warmth of the refuge, tents provided our accommodation, pitched with a glorious view of the surrounding mountains. Our day’s efforts were rewarded with nature showing off at both sunset and sunrise.

Not being in any particular rush in the morning, we sat back with fresh coffee warming hands to watch the day slowly emerge.

Once back on bikes, the descent in the early morning glow was stunning! Apart from the occasional dismount over more jagged terrain than we could ride on loaded bikes, it was an otherwise real endorphin charge to start the day.

Cul de la Seigne, Image by Scott Cornish

It wasn’t long before the route headed back up. The 360° views from the Col de la Seigne at 2550m made up for the lung busting climb. What a place to linger, warm sunshine and snow capped mountain views in every direction, topped off by yet another cracking big mountain descent.

From here we dropped into Italy, for a ride along valley singletrack and past Refuge Elisabetta, the planned overnight stop, but the mountaintop stop was a way better option!

Now on the opposite side of Mont Blanc, the climb up to the Col Checrouit was mostly secondary road, but the views of the Glacier du Mirage made up for that. Meandering up winding 4×4 tracks that doubled up as ski.piste in the winter, we were soon in the peaks high above Courmayeur. A huge descent dropped us swiftly into the Italian ski resort, non technical, but steep and super dusty! Sunshine glinting off the haze of dust kicked up by our wheels.

A small shop just up from the bus station, en route, provided plenty of gluten free food for Alan with outside seating for a relaxed lunch break. Pricey of course though.

8km of pavement pounding up out of Courmayeur was one of the mtb detours off the official TMB route, avoiding a long hike-a-bike section. Over the top and we entered into a deep sided valley following the river trail. If you have time, the crystal clear waters are perfect for a quick dip! A refuge at the valley’s end provided an ideal refuel and coffee stop before the long climb out up and over Col Ferret, along the trail we could see disappearing up the mountainside.

Coffee & cake – image by Scott Cornish

Switchback fire road eased us in, up to the refuge Elena, before unrideable hiking path took over, pitching up steeply at times! Grand views of the length of the valley and cascading glaciers eased wincing calves.

Despite the windchill, we took our time at the col taking in the 360° views. With the sun on our backs, we flew down lingering snow fields and flowing mountain singletrack, dropping into Switzerland towards Champex, our next destination. Not before stomach’s demanded food though! A well timed refuge just up from the valley floor provided dinner, but at a hefty expense!

Tree lined valley single track followed the flow of the river, the kind of trail you wanted to just keep riding all day long. Wanting to pitch up before darkness fell, we found a quiet spot on the climb out of the valley. The MSR Reflex tent is quick and easy to set up and pretty roomy for a single person tent.

The sunrise ride up through tree lined singletrack was stunning. We rode in silence just the sounds of effort, taking in nature’s show, riding in and out of the sunbeams streaming through the trees.

Another good food store find in Champex, just before the lake, for Alan. Stomachs full with a 2nd breakfast, we bimbled along more river side trail, spinning out the legs in anticipation of the penultimate climb. Well known for its steep slopes bringing UTMB competitors to their knees, we understood why as it became gradually steeper and looser under tyre, forcing defeat and pushing, much to the intrigue of hikers as we hustled past them with our loaded bikes.

Over numerous river crossings and up tight switchbacks, we quickly gained height on the trail’s steep slopes. The final 2km was at least rideable along the ridge edge, and what a view! Now above the treeline, the Valais valley stretched out far infront of us. The ridge top refuge had to be an obligatory stop for coffee and cafe! An ancient summer refuge with the original kitchen, still churning out homemade treats and tasty coffee. Worth a ride out from Chamonix as a day trip.

Trying not to indulge too much in the delicious cake as there was a steep 2km climb to the top of the descent and what a descent. Cracking singletrack, a real mix of flow, technical and steep, all whilst avoiding hikers! Amazing! From the col de Forclaz, it was still downwards, smooth tarmac connecting us swiftly to the final climb up past the hillside hamlet of Les Jeurs. Non technical ski piste tracks brought us to the col de Possettes and far reaching views of the Chamonix valley 1000m below. From here it was all downhill!

Rocky, contoured ski piste dropped us into le Tour and the start of the tree lined singletrack of Petit Balcon Nord trail, flowing all the way into the edge of town.

Alaon on Tour du Mont Blanc

Our endpoint was Moody Café, the best coffee in town, but you’ll have to be there before 17h! Stinking cyclists are probably best using the outside seating! A large, cold fruit smoothie helped soothe tired legs, alongside a coffee of course.

What a ride. Camp out or use the refuges, it’s an iconic trail worth doing despite the hike-a-bike sections. This alternative does employ a couple of detours to minimise pushing, namely the sections Entreves to Planpinicieux and via Les Jeurs instead of Col de Balme which is unrideable in this direction. If the weather allows, overnight up high as the effort is well worth it for the spectacular sunrise.

We rode in early June avoiding the summer holiday crowds as it gets busy on the TMB route. Numerous companies offer guided longer tours if you don’t want to bikepack it and keep off the official route.

Click below to download GPX file

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Tour du Mont Blanc

% singletrack, % rideable (time), total ascent, difficulty (1-10).

• 10 Climbing Scale Very Strenuous 244 FT/MI (46 M/KM)
• - Technical Difficulty
• - Physical Demand
• - Resupply & Logistics

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The Wild Side

The mountains before the 18th century were considered arcane places, full of dangers, inhabited by monstrous creatures, where huge white dragons (i.e. glaciers) descended from the heights to haul away and devour those who wished to violate their territory. The conquest of Mont Blanc in 1786 marks the beginning of a different approach to the mountains, still an unknown place yet to be explored — the birth of Alpinism.

A different approach is also necessary when bikepacking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), one of the most popular long-distance circular treks in Europe. The urge to pedal must meld with the attitude of the mountains and to all that it involves. The Tour du Mont Blanc is an alpine voyage that fills the heart and empties the lungs. For a detailed description of the route, click the Trail Notes tab below.

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Trail Notes

• Amazing views on Val Veny and Val Ferret, two beautiful glacial valleys that run along the entire italian side of the Mont Blanc Massif.
• The monuments of the conquest of Mont Blanc (1786) in the Chamonix square. The first of 1887 is dedicated to Balmat De Saussure and the second was opened 100 years later to return M.G.Paccard about who was the real soul of the undertaking.
• The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) it’s one of the biggest vulture which nesting in the old continent. It’s possible to spot this rare bird of prey, recently reintroduced on the Alps, in the most mountainous areas of the route.
• The Marmot (Marmota) a sort of large squirrel, will accompany you along most of the route with its typical whistle. It’s a warning signal used to communicate your presence to the others marmots. It’s indeed the cutest animal of the TMB.
• Weird wooden sculptures along the trail in the wood after Champex-Lac, in Switzerland.
• This route of TMB deviates from the classic route and requires good physical preparation. However, there are several paths to reduce the total ascent and bypass some of the toughest climbs.
• The best time to face the TMB is from mid-June until mid-September. In June the higher mountain passes may still be snow-covered. During July and August the trails are crowded with hikers, while in later September you can experience the TMB in amore intimate way.
• The TMB can be ridden clockwise or counterclockwise. Many people choose to start from Chamonix or Les Houches in France, others from Courmayeur in Italy, but you can choose any point along the route.
• Take high mountain clothes with you. Abrupt changes in weather can lead to sudden snowfalls even in the summer months.
• Don’t’ forget to wear sunscreen.
• The long, steep descents and the weight of the bike in bikepacking mode devour the brake pads. Take with you at least one spare pair.
• In the towns of Chamonix and Les Houches , there are some well-stocked bike shops.
• Wild camping is not generally encouraged , but is tolerated. Set up camp in responsible places. Be discreet.  #leavenotrace
• For those who don’t want to have a self-supported adventure there are many shelters along the route where you can sleep and eat. In the summer months, given the turnout, it’s recommended to book, while from mid-September many of them are already closed.
• The massif of Mont Blanc with its glaciers and permanent snow ensures a steady supply of water along the route. (Rivers and creeks in the mountain/ fountains in the villages).
• You can resupply at the general stores in Courmayeur (Italy), Les Houches and Chamonix (France) and in the small village of Le Fouly (Switzerland).

Trail Description

The TMB starts in a clockwise direction from Courmayeur, a small italian town located at the foot of the southern side of Mont Blanc. It quickly reaches 2,000 meters in altitude and the majestic scenery offered by the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey and the mighty glacier of Brenva that flows down valley from the summit of Mont Blanc. By way of a hike-a-bike trail you reach the Mont Favre at 2400mt before falling back to the most spectacular area of the Val Veny, where Dora of Vény river, the incredible Miage glacier, lake Combal, Aiguille des Glaciers and the unmistakable silhouettes of Calcaires Pyramides on the horizon paint an ice-age setting of incomparable beauty.

A comfortable gravel road runs through the valley and after passing some dilapidated military barracks, reaches the high Val Veny, a vast isolated plateau that allows you to catch your breath before start to climb again along a trail that leads to the Col de la Seigne (2512mt) on the border between Italy and France. Arriving here just before sunset means you will enjoy the most beautiful descent of the whole Tour immersed in a surreal atmosphere: the sweet flowing singletrack, the Vallée des Glaciers and peaks on the horizon, all is dyed of gold. After losing about 1000 mt in altitude and passed the small village of Les Chapieux, it rises again to face one of the toughest stretches of the TMB, the climb to the Col du Bonhomme (2,483mt) where the narrow, steep and often rough track will make you curse every the added grams loaded on your bike. However, the Alpine environment and the scenic views offered by the surrounding valleys will reward the effort.

The singletrack descent, initially tight and technical, becomes smoother and comfortable as you get closer to the valley where a gravel road leading into the town of Les Contamines. From here you’ll climb a steep fire road to reach Col de Voza, then cross the tracks of the Tramway du Mont Blanc to go down to the village of Les Houches, along an old school crumbly downhill track. The route continues on singletrack through the forest, running along the north side of the Arve valley, where through the branches of the pine trees, you see the majestic Glacier du Bossom and overhanging peaks of the Aiguille du Midi and the Aiguille du Dru.

After the traditional alpine village of Chamonix, you will reach the town of Le Tour where a jeep road reaches the Col de Balme at 2195mt on the border of France and Switzerland. From here a long, scenic singletrack runs the west side of the Croix de Fer and then enters the forest, where it becomes rocky and very technical. From the valley of Trient you’ll climb to the amphitheater of the namesake glacier to overcome the glacial river through a wooden bridge and reach the pass of the Col de la Forclaz. A steep narrow path climbs to the Alp Bovine becoming increasingly challenging in the final stretch where boulders along the trail force you to lift the front wheel.

The route continues between alpine pasture and forest to reach the valley bottom through a steep descent on loose rock that winds between boulders and ancient trees uprooted by winter avalanches. Back in the valley you’ll climb the swiss side of Val Ferret, cross the village of Le Fouly and with a succession of trails and fire roads you reach the Col du Grand Ferret at 2,537 mt altitude, on the Swiss-Italian border. From here the view of the Italian Val Ferret is breathtaking. The return to Chamonix is done by traversing the mountain side, a panoramic balcony on the northeastern side of the Mont Blanc massif: from Mont Dolent to the Aiguille de Triolet, from the Grandes Jorasses to the Giant’s Tooth, until the 4810mt summit of Mont Blanc.

With Thanks

Thanks to Adidas Eyewear, CamelBak, EVOC, FiveTen, Genesis Bikes, Madison Clothing, Miss Grape, MSR, Therm-a-Rest, TitanStraps and Vittoria for supporting this trip.

Additional Resources

• autourdumontblanc.com  is a site plenty of useful info about the TMB route.
• Visit MontanusWild.com – For the full set of photos from this trip.

Terms of Use: As with each bikepacking route guide published on BIKEPACKING.com, should you choose to cycle this route, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines . The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. BIKEPACKING.com LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following this route.

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• Le tunnel du Mont-Blanc va finalement rouvrir dès ce vendredi
• Après les Grands Montets, la station de ski de La Flégère ouvre partiellement ce samedi
• Ouverture partielle du domaine des Grands Montets à partir du 2 Decembre 2023
• Aucune remontée mécanique ouverte à Chamonix avant l'ouverture des domaines skiables
• Le domaine skiable des Grands Montets: ouverture repoussée d’au moins une semaine

La station de Chamonix compte trois hôtels 5 étoiles, onze hôtels 4 étoiles, vingt-deux hôtels 3 étoiles, treize hôtels

La Mer de Glace est l'un des site importants de la vallée de Chamonix.

Bistrot des Sports BDS Chamonix, this old cafe brasserie has opened since 1924 and welcomes you both in summer and wi

Agence immobilière prééminente située à l’avenue de l’Aiguille du Midi. 

Depuis 1934, Snell Sports est le plus grand magasin de montagne de la vallée de Chamonix.

* Depuis 2010  * Equipe bilingue  * Gestion de propriété pour chalet privés ou en location 

Compare & Book Online with Chamonix.net

Tour du mont blanc cyclo en velo de route cyclo, 330km / 8000m d+.

Le Tour du Mont Blanc est un classique des longues distances, il consiste à tourner autour du Mont Blanc en passant par Chamonix, le Col des Montets, le Col de la Forclaz, Martigny, Champex-Lac, le Col du Grand St Bernard, Aoste, La Thuile, le Col du Petit St Bernard, Bourg St Maurice, le Cormet de Roselend, Beaufort, le col des Saisies, Megève, St Gervais, le Fayet et retour à Chamonix. Sur la carte le tracé est joli et tentant, dans la réalité il faut s’avaler 330 km et 8000m de dénivelé.

Nous avons fait pour la 1ère fois en 2006 et nous avons choisi de le faire en 2 jours. Cela nous a pris 2 grosses journées de +- 7h30. Partir tôt c'est important pour éviter la chaleur. Il y a beaucoup de points d'eau pour remplir les bidons.

Depuis 2006, nous avons effectué le Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo en plusieurs formats, qui vont de 1 à 4 jours. Les étapes varient entre 85km et 330km par jour... c'est à vous de décider votre défi!

Bon courage et bons entraînements à tous!!! Vive le vélo de route et le cyclo!

Dates pour l'Été 2023 (nous proposons aussi les parcours 1, 2 et 3 jours).

• Du 7 au 10 Septembre 2023 (Jeudi à Dimanche) - 10 places disponibles - Prix: à partir de 800€
• Du 14 au 17 Septembre 2023 (Jeudi à Dimanche) - 10 places disponibles - Prix: à partir de 800€
• Du 21 au 24 Septembre 2023 (Jeudi à Dimanche) - 10 places disponibles - Prix: à partir de 800€
• Du 28 Sep au 1 Octobre 2023 (Jeudi à Dimanche) - 10 places disponibles - Prix: à partir de 800€

Contactez nous via email [email protected] ou +33.6 19 88 92 95

Parcours (exemple sur 2 jours, mais possible en 1, 3 ou 4 jours aussi).

Chamonix - Col des Montets (passage en Suisse) - Col de la Forclaz - Martigny: 44km Martigny - Champex - Col du Grand Saint Bernard (passage en Italie) - Aoste: 81km Aoste - La Thuile: 41km Total: 163 km, 4300m D

La Thuile -  Col du Petit Saint Bernard (passage en France) - Bourg Saint Maurice: 44km Bourg Saint Maurice - Cormet de Roseland - Beaufort: 40km Beaufort - Col des Saisies - Flumet: 33km Flumet - Megeve - Chamonix: 46km Total: 167km, 3700m D

Le Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo

Durée: 1 / 2 / 3 ou 4 jours (sur demande)

Distance: 330km et 8000m D+

Personnes : 10 personnes max.

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Welcome to the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)

3 countries, one identity, 10,000 m in altitude and about 60 hours of walking, 170 km of discovery for a total of 10 days of satisfaction!

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Trails conditions

The Tour du Mont Blanc trail conditions

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The Tour du Mont-Blanc hikers diary

Summer 2024: good practices in the Nature Reserves

Get ready to go.

The route, the safety, the conditions, the equipment: everything you need to know about the Tour du Mont-Blanc

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8 wonders around Mont Blanc

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Alpage de Porcherey

Alpage de la Peule

Rifugio Bertone

Update on the condition of the trails around Mont Blanc

Summer 2024

Mild weather and pleasant temperatures in this period of mid-june. the snowfields are rapidly …, starting from july 14th and until 30/10/21 it is forbidden to circulate by bicycle (including mtm ….

Una bella esperienza ad ovest

Gran bel trekking, non troppo impegnativo (dipende dai tempi e dal passo). Una bella occasione per godere di un panorama incredibile che ad ogni versante regala emozioni nuove. Noi l'abbiamo fatto tranquillamente in 8 giorni in …

Bonjour On vient de terminer le tour du mont blanc en famille avec 3 enfants de 10/11 et 13ans. Les conditions étaient excellentes. Juste un névé au Brevent où on a mis les crampons pour assurer la sécurité des enfants. …

Bonjour Je viens de terminer le TMB . Excellentes conditions météorologiques. 1 jour de pluie et col de balme brouillard et vent Des névés par endroits donc attention : col du bonhomme et brevent.et par ci par la Pour ma…

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Trail Conditions Season 2024 See our News Page

Tour du Mont Blanc Map

If you look at a map of the area, the Mont Blanc range forms a compact mass of complex mountain structures, passable via a circular route making use of its surrounding valleys and relatively low level cols or mountain passes.

Traditionally, the Tour du Mont Blanc starts and finishes in the Chamonix Valley and moves anti-clockwise through France, Italy and Switzerland and returns in to the Chamonix valley for the last few days of the trek.

Over time, all manner of variants have been included. For example, Col de Tricot from Les Houches to Contamines or Fenetre d'Arpette from Champex-Lac to Trient. Often these variants make the Tour du Mont Blanc more challenging with more height gain and descent and tougher terrain.

The Tour du Mont Blanc full circuit is often undertaken in reverse and can seem very different when done in the opposite direction.

Scroll down to view the full circuit, easterly and westerly routes.

Tour du Mont Blanc Full Circuit Map

Approximately 170 kilometres in length with an accumulation of 9,500m of height gain. The Tour du Mont Blanc full circuit starts and finishes in the Chamonix valley the route circumnavigates the Mont Blanc Massif taking in some of the most spectacular alpine scenery through France, Italy and Switzerland.

Click the route sections on the map for more info

Chamonix to Les Houches

Distance: 13k | Height gain: +700m | Descent: -1500m

We commence the Tour Mont Blanc full trek from Chamonix taking the cable car to the Planpraz at 2000m, from here we take the TMB route to the Col du Brevent, Brevent 2525m and descend along the stunning ridge to Refuge Bel Lachat. From the refuge, we make the long and tough descent via Parc Merlet to Les Houches and our hotel accommodation for the night.

Accommodation

3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, evening meal & breakfast

Guide notes:

This day often feels one of the toughest on the trek generally because people are not fully acclimatised. The descent can be punishing & is probably the most difficult during the trek due 1500m sustained down hill & at times rocky terrain. Walking poles are recommended to save the knees!

Les Houches to Les Contamines

Via Bionnassay: Distance: 15k | Height gain: +100m | Descent: -700m Via Col du Tricot: Distance: 13k | Height gain: +800m | Descent: -1300m

Our day starts with a cable car ride to the Bellevue 1802m with stunning views of the Mont Blanc range from high above the westerly end of the Chamonix valley. We then have a choice of routes to Les Contamines via Bionnassay and Chapel or the Col du Tricot and Chalets des Miage.

3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, evening meal and breakfast

Day two and you are probably feeling a little tiered from the first day. The terrain is very different today, less rugged and more green as you will be trekking though high altitude pastureland. If you are trekking via the Col du Tricot check out the Blueberry pie at the Chalets des Miage, very memorable and delicious!

Les Contamines to Refuge Mottets

Distance: 20k | Height gain: +1500m | Descent: -900m

A great day ahead awaits and we make our ascent through three cols, Col du Bonhomme, Col de la Croix du Bonhomme and the Col des Fours 2665m. Descending steeply through the wild and remote landscape to Ville des Glaciers and our rest stop for the night at the atmospheric Refuge Mottets.

Dormitory (upgrade possible), evening meal & breakfast

On paper this looks like one of the longest and toughest days on the trek but don’t worry its very doable. There is a fair amount of height gain but it is integrated with sections of gentle terrain, which make the day more manageable. The key is to start early & allow plenty of time.

Refuge Mottets to Courmayeur

Distance: 14k | Height gain: +700m | Descent: -700m

By staying at the Refuge Mottets it gives us a great position below the Col du Seigne 2516m, although we climb steeply at times we soon find ourselves over the col and across French/Italian border into Italy. We then make a descent into the stunning Val Veny with easy walking through the hanging valleys to Lac Combal. From here we descend La Visaille and take the shuttle bus to Courmayeur.

3* Hotel, private en-suite rooms, B & B

One of my favourite days on the Tour du Mont Blanc, the views from the Col du Seigne is second to none! Once you are at the col and if the weather is right rest for a while and take in the far-reaching views in to Italy & Switzerland, just wonderful!

Courmayeur to Refuge Bonatti

Distance: 17k | Height gain: +750m | Descent: -50m

Fully refreshed we make our ascent to the Refuge Bertoni and enjoy amazing views of Mont Blanc and Courmayeur down below. We spend the rest of the day on a lofty traverse from high above the Val Ferret with stunning views of the Italian side of the Mont Blanc before reaching our accommodation at the beautiful Refuge Bonatti 2056m.

A steep but steady climb up to the Refuge Bertoni, it’s worth it because the coffee is fabulous & the views just stunning, elevenses’ here is a must! Fabulous views of some of the most famous peaks in the European Alps including Mont Blanc and the Grand Jorasses. And for the refuge Bonatti... its just fabulous, if the night is clear go our side after dinner and just 'be' in this impressive location.

Refuge Bonatti to La Fouly

Distance: 20k | Height gain: +900m | Descent: -1400m

An early start and a new country awaits, we continue through the Val Ferret to Arnuva before making our long ascent to the Grand Col Ferret 2537m via the Refugio Elena and the Italian/Swiss border. We then make a relatively easy and enjoyable descent via la Peule, Ferret to La Fouly and our hotel accommodation for the night.

3* Hotel private en-suite rooms, evening meal & breakfast

Again this day looks tough but the hard bits are nicely spaced with less challenging terrain & once at the Col stare in wonder at the view looking back at your last 3 days of trekking towards the Col du Seigne & over the boarder into Switzerland. The descent is long but at an easy angle & the path is good. Plenty of opportunity to stop for refreshments at Arnurva, Refuge Elena & La Peule.

La Fouly to Champex Lac

Distance: 18k | Height gain: +750m | Descent: -950m

An easy day in comparison walking in the beautiful Swiss Val Ferret. We then pass through the Swiss villages of Praz de Fort and Issert before make our ascent to the charming village of Champex-Lac and our resting place for the evening.

Auberge with private rooms & shared facilities, evening meal & breakfast

The Bovine route is a fabulous day not too tricky over lovely terrain. Lunch stop at the high alpine farm at Bovine is a must, you can purchase local food or even eat your own picnic on the terrace as long as you buy a drink. Amazing views across to Lac Leman & down the Rhone valley.

Champex Lac to Trient

An initial easy start to the day is to be had as we wind our way on easy paths to Plan de l'Au. We then climb up steadily to the Alpage Bovine 1987m and enjoy fabulous views over Martigny and the Swiss Valais. We spend the rest of the day making our descent to the Col du Forclaz 1526m with a final descent to Trient.

Auberge with private rooms and shared facilities, evening meal and breakfast

The Bovine route is a fabulous day not too tricky over lovely terrain. Lunch stop at the high alpine farm at Bovine is a must, you can purchase local food or even eat your own picnic on the terrace as long as you buy a drink. Amazing views across to Lac Leman and down the Rhone valley.

Trient to Argentière

Direct via the Col du Balme: Distance: 13k | Height gain: +900m | Descent: -900m Via Catogne & the Col du Balme: Distance: 15k | Height gain: +1000m | Descent: -1000m

Today we have two options as we can take the route directly to the Col du Balme from Trient or through alpine woodland to the Alpage of Tseppes, Catogne and on to the Col du Balme 2191m and the Swiss/French border. From the Col, we then make our descent to the hamlet of Le Tour and across pastureland to the village of Argentiere and our hotel accommodation for the evening.

4* Hotel private en-suite rooms, B & B

Personally unless the weather is bad take the route via Catogne, the views are far superior as one up high you take a lofty traverse with excellent views over towards Emossom dam & the Aiguille Rouges nature reserve.

Argentière to Chamonix

Distance: 14k | Height gain: +1200m | Descent: -500m

Our final day and a fitting end to the trek takes us back into the Aiguille Rouges to the stunning Lac des Cheserys and Lac Blanc 2352m. We then make a descent to Flegere and take the balcony path traversing high above the Chamonix valley to Planpraz at our starting point 11 days earlier completing the circuit. A final decent via the cable car back to Chamonix in time for a celebratory drink as you have just completed the Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the best multi day treks in the world. In the event of lift closures, we make our descent back to Chamonix via Flegere.

3* Hotel private en-suite rooms, B & B

A fitting end to the trek back in the Aiguille nature reserve with pristine views of the Mont Blanc massif and all its peaks and glaciers. Visiting the iconic Lac Blanc is a must and stop for refreshments in the refuge. It gets busy with day walkers in August so make an early start if possible.

• 1. Chamonix to Les Houches
• 2. Les Houches to Les Contamines
• 3. Les Contamines to Refuge Mottets
• 4. Refuge Mottets to Courmayeur
• 5. Courmayeur to Refuge Bonatti
• 6. Refuge Bonatti to La Fouly
• 7. La Fouly to Champex Lac
• 8. Champex Lac to Trient
• 9. Trient to Argentière
• 10. Argentière to Chamonix

Tour du Mont Blanc Easterly Circuit Map

The Tour Mont Blanc easterly trek starts in Courmayeur and takes in half of the classic route anti-clockwise to Chamonix. It is a 6 day trek that covers approximately 100 kilometers through the Italian, Swiss and French alps. This walking holiday in the alps is ideal for those wanting to experience the Tour du Mont Blanc in a shorter period of time.

We make our ascent to the Refuge Bertoni and enjoy amazing views of Mont Blanc and Courmayeur down below. We spend the rest of the day on a lofty traverse from high above the Val Ferret with stunning views of the Italian side of the Mont Blanc before reaching our accommodation at the beautiful Refuge Bonatti 2056m.

• 1. Courmayeur to Refuge Bonatti
• 2. Refuge Bonatti to La Fouly
• 3. La Fouly to Champex Lac
• 4. Champex Lac to Trient
• 5. Trient to Argentière
• 6. Argentière to Chamonix

Tour du Mont Blanc Westerly Circuit Map

The Tour du Mont Blanc westerly route starts in Chamonix and takes in half of the classic Tour du Mont Blanc route anti-clockwise to Courmayeur. The route covers approximately 70 kilometers through the French and Italian alps. This trekking holiday in the alps is ideal for those wanting to experience the Tour du Mont Blanc in a shorter period of time.

We commence the Tour Mont Blanc westerly trek from Chamonix taking the cable car to the Planpraz at 2000m, from here we take the TMB route to the Col du Brevent, Brevent 2525m and descend along the stunning ridge to Refuge Bel Lachat. From the refuge, we make the long and tough descent via Parc Merlet to Les Houches and our hotel accommodation for the night.

This day often feels one of the toughest on the trek generally because people are not fully acclimatised. The descent can be punishing and is probably the most difficult during the trek due 1500m sustained down hill & at times rocky terrain. Walking poles are recommended to save the knees!

Tour du Mont Blanc Profile

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Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo

17 jul 2021 - hauteluce, france.

• Nearby Events

You are at the starting line, in the heart of the beautiful ski station of Les Saisies, it is 4:55 in the morning and you turn on your front light. You listen to the latest safety instructions from the announcer and the Head of the course. 4:58, the departure music starts, a lot of thoughts jump inside your head: "What am I doing here? "Why do I hurt myself like that? "Am I really ready for this huge challenge? But you know well the answer: To become a Hero!

A benchmark among ultra cycling events, the Tour du Mont-Blanc Cyclo is a 330km sportive that sees riders climb over 8000m and pass through three countries in the "roof of Europe".

Completing the challenge requires flawless preparation, extraordinary courage and determination to exceed your limits to become a hero. 

2021 sees the eleventh edition of the TMB, once again crossing between France, Switzerland and Italy on a demanding and ruthless route - this may well be the ultimate one-day sportive challenge.

• 17 Jul 2021 4:00am Up to 330 km (205 miles)
• Tickets On Sale From 145.00 EUR
• Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo Hauteluce, France , France Unknown Riders
• Up to 330 km (205 miles)
• From 145.00 EUR
• Unknown Riders

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• Route planner

The magical Tour du Mont-Blanc by bike

Road Cycling Collection by Steph Lightfoot

Three days, three countries, more than 320 km (200 mi) and more than 9,000 metres (30,000 ft) of elevation gain: discover the legend of the Tour du Mont Blanc by bike. Climb several of the Tour de France's legendary passes and follow in the footsteps of iconic riders through impressive descents in the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. This road bike adventure is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful in the Alps. It is a must for cycling enthusiasts who want to go even further into France, Switzerland and Italy. The route follows historic roads, wild landscapes and legendary high passes. You'll be riding on the same roads as your cycling heroes and thousands of travellers over the centuries. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a magnificent loop. I have chosen to start from Chamonix in France and ride clockwise, always under the watchful eye of the Mont Blanc massif. This three-stage Collection allows you to enjoy the adventure and have a great time. Bike lovers rejoice! Note that not all stages are equal. You will certainly want to discover towns such as Aosta in Italy and Bourg-Saint-Maurice in France. You will ride 124 km (77 mi) on the first day, 77 km (49 mi) on the second day and 120 km (75 mi) on the last day. You start in Chamonix. A historic mountain town, Chamonix boasts the highest peak in Western Europe, Mont Blanc, at over 4,800 metres (15,750 ft). Its white cap is almost always visible from your bike during the three days. For centuries, mountaineers, climbers, skiers and extreme athletes have flocked to this legendary city to try their luck: to reach the extraordinary, even legendary, summit. A childhood dream for many. Plan to spend at least half a day discovering and enjoying these wide open spaces, between snowy peaks and bucolic landscapes. Easily accessible by plane, road or train and with many accommodation options, Chamonix is only an hour's drive from Geneva International Airport (Switzerland). There are several transfer services or a regular bus service from the airport to the town centre. For those arriving by road or train, there is plenty of long-term parking and the train station is right in the centre of town. For buses and trains, don't forget to book your bike seat in advance. Highlights include the Great St Bernard Pass, with its 32 km (20 mi) climb to 2,469 metres (8,100 ft), which crosses the border between Switzerland and Italy. The Petit-Saint-Bernard Pass is an ancient road that has linked Lyon in France, and Rome in Italy, for at least 1,000 years. Finally, the Col des Saisies has often been included in the stages of the Tour de France; imagine yourself in the middle of a peloton of professional cyclists climbing and descending this magnificent route!

Stage 1: Chamonix to Aosta – Tour du Mont Blanc by bike

The first day of this Tour du Mont Blanc by bike is the longest with 124 km and around 3,500 meters of elevation gain. You will start in France, pass through Switzerland and end in Aosta in Italy.

Stage 2: Aosta to Bourg St Maurice – Tour du Mont Blanc by bike

The second day of this Tour du Mont Blanc by bike is the shortest and the most "easy". You start from Aosta in Italy and finish in Bourg-Saint-Maurice in France, 77 km and less than 2000 meters of elevation gain. A deserved day of rest. Warm up your tired legs to better attack the third day.

From Aosta … read more

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Stage 3: Bourg St Maurice to Chamonix – Tour du Mont Blanc by bike

A real highlight, this third day of the Tour du Mont Blanc by bike has some great surprises in store for you. The road to Cormet du Roselend climbs from Bourg-Saint-Maurice through a landscape as splendid as it is unsuspected. The summit offers magnificent views of Lake Roseland. The pure and raw beauty … read more

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Collection Stats

• Distance 201 mi
• Duration 20:02 h
• Elevation 28,925 ft

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• Vélorizons : voyage à vélo, raid et rando VTT, circuit cyclo
• Voyages vélo de route / cyclo France
• Le tour du mont blanc

Cyclo France

LE TOUR DU MONT BLANC

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De col en col, un superbe itinéraire cyclo montagnard entre France, Suisse et Italie... Réf CR14

Encore une boucle inédite et un nouveau défi pour les amoureux des grands cols que nous sommes ! C’est à cheval sur la Suisse, l’Italie et la France que nous roulons, à la recherche des plus beaux panoramas du massif du Mont Blanc : de cols en cols, d’alpages en alpages, le Géant offre souvent un visage différent, mais toujours spectaculaire. C’est aussi à la découverte de ces “terres de fromage” que vous invite ce séjour : la traversée de l’authentique Beaufortain précède les petites routes sinueuses du Chablais et du Val d’Abondance... De l’autre côté de la frontière, une incursion originale en pleines Alpes Bernoises vous fera découvrir le village huppé de Gstaad, ses chalets typiques et l’amont de la vallée de Gruyère. Le retour à Chamonix sonne le glas de cette fantastique immersion au coeur des montagnes !

• Départs et prix
• Infos pratiques
• Version liberté
• Avis voyageurs (10)

Distance et dénivelée:

Les points forts.

• De très beaux panoramas sur le massif du Mont Blanc que nous découvrons sous tous ses angles...
• Un circuit à cheval sur trois pays, donc trois cultures.

Accompagnement:

Hébergement:, transport bagages:, option liberté:, prochains départs:.

Certains de nos circuits sont déclinés en plusieurs variantes de niveau, allant de 1 à 3. Lorsque des variantes sont disponibles, vous en trouvez le détail (distance et dénivelée) dans le programme du circuit, jour par jour.

Dans le cas des circuits avec variantes, quelque soit celle que vous avez choisie, les hébergements sont les mêmes (sauf quelques rares exceptions énoncées clairement dans la fiche descriptive). Ainsi, chaque matin, vous pouvez choisir celle qui vous convient.

Au jour le jour

• Jour 1: Chamonix - Col du Grand Saint Bernard
• Jour 2: Col du Grand Saint Bernard - Bourg Saint Maurice
• Jour 3: Bourg Saint Maurice - Col des Aravis
• Jour 4: Col des Aravis - Châtel
• Jour 5: Châtel - Les Mosses (Boucle des Alpes Bernoises)
• Jour 6: Les Mosses - Chamonix

J1: Chamonix - Col du Grand Saint Bernard

Les cols du jour.

• Col des Montets (1461 m)
• Col de la Forclaz (1527 m)
• Col de Champex (1498 m)
• Col du Grand Saint Bernard (2469 m)

Les moments forts

• Le départ au pied de sa majesté le Mont Blanc
• La première descente face à la longue vallée du Rhône
• Le passage par le bucolique lac de Champex
• La nuit au sommet du col du Grand Saint Bernard

Distance parcourue : environ 90 km / Dénivelée positive : environ 3400 m.

Note : la montée au col du Grand Saint Bernard comporte des tunnels et est assez passante. Prévoir de bons éclairages pour être bien vus ! La dernière montée n'est pas des plus agréables, mais la nuit au col est une belle récompense !

J2: Col du Grand Saint Bernard - Bourg Saint Maurice

• Col du Petit Saint Bernard (2188 m)
• LA journée italienne du séjour, avec ses pauses gourmandes...
• La descente sur Bourg Saint Maurice, face au Beaufortain

Distance parcourue : environ 120 km / Dénivelée positive : environ 2 000 m (option plus difficile possible, 125 km / 2850 m).

J3: Bourg Saint Maurice - Col des Aravis

• Cormet de Roselend (1967 m)
• Col des Prés (1703 m)
• Col du Joly (facultatif)
• Col des Saisies (1650 m)
• Col des Aravis (1486 m)
• La traversée du Beaufortain, massif à la vie agricole très vivante en vue de la fabrication du fromage de Beaufort, visite possible de la coopérative au passage...)
• Le lac de Roselend et se eaux turquoises dominées par les alpages...
• La vue à couper le souffle sur le massif du Mont Blanc depuis le col du Joly (à effectuer en aller/retour)
• Le passage à la station des Saisies et son domaine nordique olympique
• A la sortie du col des Aravis, la découverte du massif du même nom...

Distance parcourue : environ 85 km / Dénivelée positive : environ 2 900 m (ajouter 35km et 1000m avec l'option Col du Joly)

J4: Col des Aravis - Châtel

• Col de la Colombière (1613 m)
• Col de Jambaz (1027 m)
• La traversée de La Clusaz et du Grand Bornand, et le charme des villages Haut Savoyards...
• Le col de la Colombière, et son ambiance très particulière...
• L'entrée sur le territoire de la vache d'Abondance, par le val du même nom
• L'approche de la Suisse, face aux Alpes Bernoises

Distance parcourue : environ 115 km / Dénivelée positive : environ 2400 m.

J5: Châtel - Les Mosses (Boucle des Alpes Bernoises)

• Pas de Morgins (1371 m)
• Col de la Croix (1778 m)
• Col du Pillon (1546 m)
• Col des Mosses (1445 m)
• Une journée d'incursion au coeur des Alpes Bernoises, petit paradis caché...
• Le passage par la station "branchée" de Gstaad
• La beauté des paysages du "Pays d'Enhaut"
• La vue sur le Lac Léman

Distance parcourue : environ 110 km / Dénivelée positive : environ 1 900 m.

J6: Les Mosses - Chamonix

• Le panorama sur le massif du Mont Blanc, vu par nos amis les Suisses !
• L'arrivée sur Chamonix et son goût de victoire ! La boucle étant bouclée...

Distance parcourue : environ 95 km / Dénivelée positive : environ 1 600 m.

Les distances et dénivelées sont données à titre indicatif.

Photos de voyage

Vous souhaitez voir des photos de ce voyage ? Rendez-vous sur notre site internet www.velorizons.com à la rubrique "Photos et récits". Vous y trouverez sans doute un diaporama du pays ou de la région concernée...

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TOUR DU MONT BLANC

Ride around the highest mountain in Europe!  Every day you have a new view of this spectacular glaciated peak while riding from France, to Switzerland, to Italy, and then back into France.  The route crosses many classic Tour de France cols including Col du Grand Saint Bernard, Col du Petit Saint Bernard, Cormet de Roseland, Col des Saises, Col des Aravis and Col de la Colombière.  We overnight in a charming Swiss village by an alpine lake, an Italian spa town, a quiet French farming village, and of course two nights in the alpine capital of Chamonix.

Happily Ever Hiker

Tour du mont blanc: our epic guide to all you need to know.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is among Europe’s greatest and most widely known hikes covering an extremely long distance, and completing this hike should be at the top of your travel list.

There’s no denying that doing the Mont Blanc tour can be the most remarkable thing you can plan to do while visiting Europe, which is why we have an epic guide with everything you ought to know about this tour!

Table of Contents

What Is The Tour Du Mont Blanc?

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most famous Mont Blanc trekking trails, and it also happens to belong to the list of world’s oldest trekking trails.

The loop is frequently featured in articles and lists titles as the ’10 Best Hiking Trails In The World,’ which is only fair given how spectacular the trail and its views are.

We’ll talk about the details of the trail later in this article, but expect breathtaking views, delectable food, and authentic mountainous adventures.

On just the first day, you’ll see massive snowy mountains, massive ice caps, majestic streams, and lush greenery.

Who Formed The Tour De Mont Blanc?

The trekking routes that comprise the tour du Mont Blanc loop, similar to the greatest treks in the world, were initially walked by shepherds who used to move their cows from one valley to the other.

However, it was a geologist from Switzerland who popularized this tour in the 18 th century.

The funny thing is that this “discovery” of his happened by accident as what he was trying to do was to figure out how to ascend Mont Blanc.

However, he ended up completing a circular trip around the entire mountain searching for the most suitable pathway, and thus was the first one (at least to our knowledge) to walk this trail.

The exact route the geologist followed is unconfirmed, but he went back to the mountain many times, desperately trying to reach the top.

Following several unsuccessful tries and circles around Mont Blanc, promised remuneration to whoever would reach the peak of the mountain.

It was in the late 1780s that two people from Chamonix were given the reward and managed to make the first climb.

He then was the third one to take the same path and reach the top of this famous European mountain.

Historically, Celtic tribal groups and the Roman army had used Col du Bonhomme, a spot located on the tour du Mont Blanc, as a route from which they moved their supplies through the Alpine areas.

Even today, you can discover the tattered remains of the Roman people and armies, with an old bridge built by their army remaining in good condition there, to many people’s surprise.

Where Is The Tour Du Mont Blanc?

TMB circumnavigates the mountain range, passing through Switzerland, Italy, as well as France.

Despite the fact that the trail does not reach the summit, everybody is familiar with Mont Blanc, and its name draws thousands of backpackers, hikers, and mountaineers each year.

How Long Is Tour Du Mont Blanc?

The Tour du Mont Blanc loop is a circuit that is 170 kilometers long and circles the Mont Blanc Mountain range.

Tour Du Mont Blanc Hike

Tour Du Mont Blanc Starting And Finishing Point

The Tour du Mont Blanc starts and finishes in Chamonix, an alpine town and adventure sports mecca on the French side of the Alps.

Despite its small size, Chamonix has always been overflowed with tourists and people looking for adventure thrills.

It is also a highly regarded ski retreat at the bottom of Mont Blanc, which means that there are many skiers and outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, as well as a booming mountaineering community and an abundance of trekking and mountain-bike paths to explore once the snow melts in the warmer months.

Chamonix is only 90 kilometers from the Geneva Airport and has numerous transportation choices available, rendering it a very accessible Alpine town.

The drive takes slightly more than an hour, bus services approximately 2 hours, and trains take closer to 3 hours, contingent on connections.

This town is also known as the World’s Capital of Adventure thanks to its busy rhythms, a plethora of fun activities, and simply stunning mountain ranges right next to it.

Tour Du Mont Blanc Route/Trail

The route follows a long loop of secluded pathways that circumnavigate the Mont Blanc massif in an anti-clockwise direction.

Of course, you have the option to follow the path in a clockwise direction, but the majority of people tend to go the other way around, and this is one of those cases where it’s preferable to go with the flow.

The trail is not challenging if you have prepared and trained right for it, but there are a lot of steep ascents.

Nevertheless, there are also many variants and easier routes to take, so you can take paths that are slightly more demanding and then continue an easy downhill.

Moreover, the Tour du Mont Blanc trekking trail includes forest areas, desolate rugged terrain, and extensive green hillsides.

You’ll also be surrounded by the ultimate combination of majestic scenery and snow-covered highs above, with each day being unique.

However, if there’s one thing the majority of your tour days have in common, it is the fact that you will be following the same pattern of hiking across hilly areas, or mountain passes, before going down to a Refugio or hotel to rest.

Similarly, your days will begin with an enjoyable uphill walk to a picturesque point where you can enjoy your snack or meal while gazing at the scenery, and then continue with your final hike downhill for a hearty evening meal and some fresh beer.

Tour Du Mont Blanc Altitude

Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain, is 4.808 meters above sea level, making its altitude one of the greatest and most challenging ones.

However, as we have previously mentioned the Tour De Mont Black does not involve ascending to its top.

In fact, the highest peak along the standard route is 2.537 meters above sea level, which is considerably lower than the top of the mountain.

This peak is at the Grand Col Ferret, which also serves as a frontier between Italy and Switzerland. Nevertheless, a few alternative routes can take you to the greatest heights.

So, for example, you also have the option of going higher up to enjoy the beautiful scenery from 2.665 meters above sea level. on the Col des Fours or Fenetre d’ Arpette,

Tour Du Mont Blanc Itinerary

Because of the long distance of the trail, most people complete the Tour du Mont Blanc route in 7 to 10 days. 

Below you can find the itinerary for a 10-day hiking trip, and which is typically the one most people follow when doing the Tour du Mont Blanc for the first time!

10-Days Itinerary

Day 1: chamonix – les contamines.

On the first day, you’ll take the minibus to Les Houches and start your tour.

This first stage from Les Houches to Les Contamines is filled with lovely pine forest pathways, steep uphills and downhills, and areas of low trees and bushes carpeted with wild blueberry shrubs.

Nevertheless, you won’t be able to avoid the steep hills for the first hour, and if you choose to go from the variant, you can expect approximately 1500 meters of elevation, compared to the 650 meters of the standard route.

If you choose the challenging path, stop for lunch at the Refuge de Miage for some delicious and nourishing salad, and then continue your hike to Les Contamines for a night’s rest and more food.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 1500 meters of elevation gain for the variant, 650 meters of elevation gain for the standard route

Day 2: Les Contamines – Les Chapieux

After spending the night in a chalet, you’ll start the second day of the tour with an uphill trek up to the renowned Col du Bonhomme.

A few hours later towards the late afternoon, you’ll hike across the Croix de la Bonhomme and head straight to Les Chapieux.

This stage of the tour offers much better scenery and is less challenging, so you will certainly enjoy it more.

Les Chapieux is so small that it hardly qualifies as a town, but it’s quite lovely. There are a few guesthouses nearby. There also is a local products shop, where you must absolutely try their goat cheese!

Elevation Profile (Gain): 1300 meters of elevation gain

 Day 3: Les Chapieux To Rifugio Monte Bianco

The third day will get you to Italy as you will be on the Col, which is approximately 1000 meters higher than the starting point.

The hike begins with a mild uphill through the valley, followed by several steep hills to the col’s summit. Although there is some altitude gain, this col is among the easiest ones to reach.

After you cross the col and until you reach Refugio Elisabetta it’s an enjoyable downhill. There you can spend some time enjoying some comfort food, and if you choose to stay the night, you’ll get a large dinner and an incredible view of the sunset.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 1000 meters of elevation gain

 Day 4: Rifugio Monte Bianco – Courmayeur

This is undoubtedly the simplest hiking day.

An easy walk down the route to Courmayeur (that is nonetheless more than 4 hours long), a little town with many tourists, and you can have a nice break there, dine, enjoy a drink, and walk around the town.

 Day 5: Courmayeur – Val Ferret

The fifth day begins with 800 meters of walking up a steep hill for approximately 2 hours, which is not that challenging.

The hike from Courmayeur, at 1224 meters, to Refugio Bertone which is at 1996 meters, is mostly through a lovely forest area full of pine trees and it takes you along the Val Ferret, in between Italy and Switzerland.

When you get to the Refugio at the top, you can decide whether or not to complete the variant, which goes up 500 meters more and is 100% worth it.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 800 meters of elevation gain

 Day 6: Val Ferret – La Fouly

On your sixth day, you’ll walk an easy 4-hour trail from Col Ferret to the little town of La Fouly, where you can try the delicious local cheese and other delicacies they offer.

An easier uphill walk all the way to a col will have you literally standing between France and Switzerland! As you descend, you’ll realize that the meal prices in the different Refugios skyrocket but spending some money on food there is worth it.

Day 7: La Fouly – Champex-Lac

This is a pleasant day with a hike through beautiful alpine grasslands and Swiss rural areas. You’ll finish your day in Champex-Lac, an idyllic Swiss settlement with a lovely lake where you can swim on a hot summer day!

There are also many towns to stop in between, so despite the relatively short hike (in comparison to the 8-hour ones on other days), you need to take into account the hours you’ll spend exploring the towns.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 637 meters of elevation gain

 Day 8: Champex-Lac – Trient

After a wonderful night in Champex, you can move on with your journey and begin the long but easy ascent to Bovine. From that point, you can descend to Trient via the Col de la Forclaz.

This day begins fairly flat before climbing approximately 1200 meters. The 1200-meter climb isn’t too difficult, and when you get to the top, there is also a cute spot to eat lunch and take in the views.

There are no grocery stores in Trient or La Peuty, so restock in Champex or enjoy your meals in any of the Refugios along the way.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 1200 meters of elevation gain

 Day 9: Trient – Argentiere

The penultimate day starts early in the morning with an uphill trek up to Col de Balme, which offers Mont Blanc on a plate.

There’s also a variant that takes you up to Col des Possettes and the Aiguillette des Possettes peak that you can take, while the downhill to La Tour will mark the end of the hiking part of the day, leaving you time to relax and unwind.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 1180 meters of elevation gain

 Day 10: Argentiere – Chamonix

The last day of your tour offers either the chance to ascend over Lac Blanc on some daring stairways or choose the standard and easier route.

Some of the most breathtaking views are being enjoyed in this last stage of the trip, which will finish with a downhill walk with Chamonix as the final destination.

Elevation Profile (Gain): 1260 meters of elevation gain

Tour Du Mont Blanc Tour Options

There are both guided and self-guided tours you can join to complete the Tour du Mont Blanc, and depending on what you choose to do, the costs will be different.

Here are some examples of guided and self-guided tours offered:

• Macs Adventure Tour
• Tour Du Mont Blanc Holiday
• Alpine Treks
• Wildland Trekking Tour

Tour Du Mont Blanc Map

Mont Blanc Treks offer several maps such as those of the easterly and westerly circuits as well as one of the full circuits around Mont Blanc, and a chart of the elevation profile of the tour.

Tour Du Mont Blanc Packing List

If you are planning on camping throughout the tour, you need to make sure you are packing as light as possible as you will be carrying the extra camping equipment with you which includes a tent and a sleeping bag , as well as a sleeping pad.

The rest of the things you need to carry are:

• Water bottle
• Clothes: fleece or sweater (depending on the weather), extra socks and underwear, shirts and shorts, and long trousers.
• Accessories: bandanas, caps, headlamp
• Microfiber towel
• Power adapter
• First-aid kit
• Passport and/or ID

When To Hike the Tour Du Mont Blanc?

The best time of the year to walk the tour du Mont Blanc is in the summertime when the climate is softer, the sun is up, and all ice has melted.

Given its high altitude and Alpine winters, going there in the summer can guarantee you a good night’s sleep when you choose to camp for the night as well as warmer weather for your hike.

Training For Tour Du Mont Blanc

Depending on which path you take, you should train and get ready for a little more or a little less strain on your legs and work accordingly on your cardio fitness level.

Read next – Is hiking good cardio?

No matter how many variants you choose to hike and how fast or slow you choose to go, you need a great fitness level, so you either have to train consistently for months, even years, before embarking on your journey, or be very athletic and fit.

Previous experience with long-distance hikes will also make this trip easier, but this does not mean you won’t need to prepare for it just because you hiked coast to coast in the UK years ago!

Tour Du Mont Blanc Accommodation

A common question and topic of discussion among hikers to-be of the Tour du Mont Blanc is that concerning the lodging options.

To begin with, there are numerous places to spend the night. If you have a lot of money, you have a plethora of choices.

However, if you’d like to complete your journey without breaking the bank, you can either choose camping or stay in one of the many refugios or guesthouses.

• Find the most affordable places to stay at booking.com

Tour Du Mont Blanc Refuges

A Refugio is a refuge, also called a mountain hut. It is basically a mountain hostel with simple interior decoration and amazing food!

Many Refugios offer private rooms, however, some of them only provide shared hostel-style lodging.

Tour Du Mont Blanc Camping

You also have the option of setting up camp every night. Clearly, it will be the most cost-effective option, but it is also one that allows you to experience this adventure in the best way possible, as it kind of completes the overall experience.

Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about making any reservations, as you can simply arrive at the campground and find a spot to set up your tent.

There are numerous ways to organize your trip, in addition to the several accommodation alternatives.

Many people prefer to schedule and plan things on their own, including booking their own accommodation and transporting all their belongings, but sometimes it is better to have some assistance.

During the peak tourist season, which is in July and August, it is preferable to let somebody else book your accommodation and luggage transfers.

Even so, keep in mind that if you choose to stay in accommodations rather than go camping, that means you’ll have to pay in advance and do your best to stay committed to the planned itinerary.

Any delay or injury incident might mean you can lose a night’s stay and, hence, money spent on a room you won’t stay in after all.

On the other hand, if you do the hike off-peak season, you can always make a same-day booking as it is always available in most hotels and guesthouses.

Either way, this website of the Tour De Mont Blanc is very useful for planning your stay throughout the tour.

You can select your intended destination and a precise date, and it will display a list of accommodation options you can stay in, which would include the walking distance from one to the other.

The Bottom Line

The Tour du Mont Blanc is without a doubt an epic multi-day hike on this planet and experiencing this journey is something you will remember forever.

The good thing is that you can always visit this destination again and if you go there on a guided tour the first time, challenge yourself by going on a self-guided tour the next one!

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Privacy Policy

You must choose your option (Solo or Duo) when you register. It is possible to change formulas before the start of the event, but the organiser must be informed, either by e-mail to [email protected], or on site at the “Inscriptions” stand. If you decide to change your formula during the race, you must inform the organisers using the contact numbers provided.

Any change of formula may result in additional registration fees.

There are no different start pens.

All participants will leave together at 5am.

To take part in the Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo, you do not need to provide a medical certificate or a cycling or triathlon licence, as the event takes place in ‘Rando’ format and is not a race. No ranking will be established at the end of the event. However, we advise all participants to have a full medical examination before taking part in the Tour du Mont Blanc Cyclo.

Any form of ID and your E-Ticket. If you are registered through a Tour Operator, please contact them to arrange pick up. The E-Ticket will be sent out by mail a couple days before the event.

You must pick up your own start number. Exceptionally, if your registration is complete (medical certificate validated), your group leader (club president) or a colleague/friend will be able to collect your number by presenting your E-Ticket and a copy of your ID.

Start numbers are attributed directly at start number pick-up.

No, it’s strictly forbidden.

During a cyclosportive event, cyclists are obliged to respect the highway code. The courses are not closed to traffic.

All cyclists must ensure their own safety and adapt their speed to the route, traffic and weather conditions (rain, wind, etc.).

In order not to jeopardise the safety of the event, and in accordance with prefectoral orders, it is forbidden to use a following vehicle (car, van, motorbike, scooter).

Refuelling and technical assistance from cars or motorbikes are prohibited.

Refuelling and additional assistance are authorised set back from the road, on the right-hand side of the road and with the bike stationary.

Areas used by feeders (car parks, etc.) must be kept clean.

For minor repairs such as punctures, you need to have the necessary equipment. If you are unable to continue your journey because of a mechanical problem, you can take a seat in the broom wagon. You will however have to wait.

If you are the cause of or witness to an accident, or if you notice that someone is in need of medical assistance, each participant is obliged to stop and render assistance and alert the emergency services by calling the emergency number on the back of your frame plate.

There is always an emergency number. It is written in the information for the race of the day and on the back of your frame plate.

Remember to fill in your personal details on the back of your frame number (name, race number, emergency contact number, etc.) and keep it with you throughout the event.

You can find your results directly after the test on the RESULTS tab of this website.

A finisher’s diploma is available on our website, once your time has been checked and validated.

You will find the following on the feed stations:

• Drinks (water, isotonic drink, Coca-Cola)
• Salted (chips, nuts, …)
• Sweet (fruits, biscuits, …)
• Bars and Gels Powerbar
• Pasta (La Salle and Bourg-St-Maurice)

A meal voucher is supplied with your registration pack. The Pasta Party is available on a self-service basis after arrival at the Signal venue.

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Road bike the tour of mont blanc: cycling - 330km & 8000m d.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic of the road bike long distances trips. This is a tour around the famous Mont Blanc starting in Chamonix via Col des Montets then Col de la Forclaz, Martigny, the Col du Grand St Bernard, Aosta, La Thuile, Col du Petit St Bernard, Bourg St Maurice, the Cormet Roselend, Beaufort, Col des Saisies, Megeve, St Gervais, Le Fayet and return to Chamonix. On the map, it seems nice and easy but in reality you should count 325km and 7400m of altitude gain.

We chose to do the trip in two days. That gave us two big days of 7hrs30mins. Starting early is important to avoid the heat. There are many fountains along the way to fill your water bottle.

The route/itinerary of the Tour du Mont Blanc on Road Bike:

Chamonix - Col des Montets (you are in Switzerland) - Col de la Forclaz - Martigny: 44km Martigny - Champex - Col du Grand Saint Bernard (you are in Italy) - Aoste: 76km Aoste - La Thuile: 41km

1st Day Numbers: 163 km & 4300m D

La Thuile -  Col du Petit Saint Bernard (you are in France) - Bourg Saint Maurice: 44km Bourg Saint Maurice - Cormet de Roseland - Beaufort: 40km Beaufort - Col des Saisies - Flumet: 33km Flumet - Megeve - Chamonix: 46km

2nd Day Numbers: 167km & 3700m D

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Tour de Mont Blanc Cyclo 2025

• What's Included
• Itinerary 2025

Accommodation

Tour de mont blanc cyclo 2025 travel package.

The Ultimate One Day Cycling Challenge .......as Tour Operators for Tour de Mont Blanc Cyclo 2025  we can say this truly is The Daddy of cycling events!!! The course traverses three countries in one day; France, Switzerland & Italy within a 338km curcuit with 8500 meters of climbing. Taking in a "sharks teeth" course of classic climbs such as; Col du Petit St Bernard (2188m), Col du Grand St Bernard (2469m), Cormet du Roseland (1967m) and finishing with final climb up to the alpine resort of Les Saises (1648m) this is a truly breathtaking Ultrafondo in every sense.

Alpcycles are experienced Official Tour Operators of this Ultrafondo and our crew will be with you every step of the way with hand-picked accommodation in the heart of Les Saises and support out on the course, keeping you fed & watered with all those special Alpcycles touches that allow you to EAT * SLEEP * RIDE and enjoy your event. 

Tour de Mont Blanc Cyclo Travel package:

3 Night Package: Thursday TBC to Sunday TBC

Twin Room Accom & Support Package/Entry = TBC

Single Room Accom & Support Package/Entry =  TBC

• The event day is: TBC
• If no Entry is required deduct €150 from package price
• Single rooms are limited - book early
• A medical form or race license is required for this event
• Non-riding partners/friends an additional €450 if sharing the same room

Tour de Mont Blanc 2024 Alpcycles package:

• Full TDMB Entry and our INVALUABLE SUPPORT SERVICE below, which is the #1 reason riders trust us to get them through the day. (if no entry required deduct 150 euros)
• Additional rolling Alpcycles VIP feedstations in selected Official Feedzones throughout the event day. This means a friendly face, homemade real food nutrition (sweet & savoury), always plenty of water/refreshments all day and a hug if you need one!!!
• Day Bag service - our riders can place their own items on our feedstations so that you can access them during the event day.
• Airport transfers for you, your bike and luggage to and from Les Saises at set times
• Allocated Airport for Tour de Mont Blanc is Geneva International Airport
• The Alpcycles team there for the full event to support you all the way
• 3 nights in 3 Star Family run hotel in the heart of Les Saises - right by the finish line!
• Twin share & single ensuite rooms - supplement payable for single rooms
• Non-rider partner/friend option if sharing the same room.
• Breakfast everyday and group evening meal on Thursday night
• **Your entry fee includes your Event dinner at the finish line on 13/07. Plenty of great food to re-fuel you
• Bike set up, tools, track pumps and secure bike storage
• Mechanically minded staff team and everything hosted by us
• The Alpcycles crew there to see you off and welcome you in
• The knowledge, enthusiasm and support of the Alpcycles team throughout your stay to ensure you have the best experience ever….so if anything else needs thinking of, we have probably already have.

What's not included in our package:

• Your flights
• Insurance for you and your bike
• Drinks with hotel meals and anything not outlined above

Itinerary 2023

Your itinerary for the weekend - subject to change

Thursday – Arrival day

Today we will have a scheduled airport transfer from Geneva International Airport (GVA) at a set time and head to our hotels in Les Saises.

Currently the pick-up time is 1pm, so book flights that are due to land by 12:15pm please. We will adjust this time and make every effort to get you all into resort as quickly as possible, so please look for morning flights.

Please find more information about the hotel on the "Accommodation" tab.

On arrival the crew will assist with bike building/set up and later our own Alpcycles briefing at dinner for our guests. The crew will be on hand all afternoon/evening if needed

This evening we will have a group dinner in a local restaurant. This is included in your package

Friday - Pre-Event Day

After an good breakfast riders will have the day to prepare and make those final preparations to you bike, kit and nutrition including ensuring you have any items you want on our additinal VIP feedstations. The Alpcycles crew will be on hand during the day to assist you with anything they can. Bibs & Race packs can be collected in the afternoon. Late afternoon the Alpcycles team will give a Race Briefing for all our riders to ensure you are ready for your event.

• Good Breakfast
• Alpcycles Team on hand all day
• Alpcycles rider briefing late afternoon at the hotel
• Dinner is not included this evening. Experience with this event has taught us that guests like to eat different things at different times the day before an event. There is a good selection of restaurants in Les Saises and our guests tend to find the thing they like at the time of day they like to eat, then chill before bedtime.

Saturday –  Event Day

With a 0500am start time its hard to call it "breakfast" this early in the day, but we will be with you to get you started this morning and to the start line on time. By the time the sun rises you will be well on your way to a truly challenging ride with unforgettable scenery. Throughout the day you will get to see the friendly & supportive faces of the Alpcycles crew at strategic points on the route armed with nutrition, including lots of homemade savoury & sweet goodies, as well as tools/pumps etc for those handy bike tweaks.

• Super Early Breakfast
• Dinner is included in your entry at the Event Finish and provided by the event organisers

Sunday - Departure

Today you wake up "King of the Mountains".....or "Queen of the Mountains" of course. You nailled it!

After breakfast we will transfer our guests back to Geneva Internstional Airport (GVA). Transfer schedules will be released at a later date but please look for afternoon flights. Please contact Shelley at [email protected] if you have any questions

For the Tour de Mont Blanc Cyclo Ultrafondo our hotel will once again be the Calgary in Les Saises. In the centre of the resort we are perfectly located for both the start & finish of the event.

If you have any dietary requirements please be sure to let us know when you book your package with us.

Please contact Shelley at [email protected] or sign up to our newsletter (right) for Priority Booking price for these packages.

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Why the Tour du Mont Blanc is rated one of the best treks in the world

Amanda Thompson European Alps

The Tour du Mont Blanc, or the TMB as it is more commonly known, is widely regarded as one of the best treks in the world. The peak of Mont Blanc is permanently covered in snow and the literal translation for Mont Blanc is ‘White Mountain’. The French commonly refer to it as La Dame blanche (‘the White Lady’) whereas the Italians often refer to it as Il Bianco (‘the White One’). The mountain was first climbed in 1786 and not only is it popular with current day mountaineers, it’s also very popular for hikers who can enjoy a slice of this fabulous landscape without having to scale to the summit.

Here’s why this challenging and rewarding trek is so highly regarded.

Breathtaking scenery

From the moment you arrive in the charming village of Chamonix the views are nothing short of breathtaking. Chamonix sits in a valley that is encircled by some of the most iconic and towering peaks in Europe, including Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. The views before you even start the trek are spectacular. As you make your way along this hike you will be treated to a stunning array of landscapes from mountain lakes reflecting the surrounding beauty and dramatic alpine passes to snow capped peaks, dense forest and open meadows where livestock graze. The variety of scenery is a visual feast and what makes this trek so special.

3 countries in one trip!

The superb landscape is not all the tour has to offer and one of the most appealing features of this walk is that it’s in an incredible location and at the crossroads of three separate countries. As you cross each border, you encounter distinctly different architectural styles in the villages along with different local customs. You could be eating a French baguette one day, pizza and pasta the next and then the traditional Swiss dish of Raclette all within a few days! The ability to travel through these diverse regions while remaining immersed in the stunning alpine environment adds a layer of cultural richness and variety, making the TMB not just a physical challenge but also a journey through the heart of European alpine heritage.

Unparalleled rewards

Typically trekked anticlockwise to maximise the views and ease some of the stepper ascents, the TMB presents a challenge with significant ascents and descents, high passes and, in places, trekking over rough ground. The reward for your efforts are unparalleled! For every day of demanding trekking, you will be presented with magnificent views of the snow capped peaks dominating the skyline, the breathtaking views down to the valleys and villages below along with magnificent sunrises and sunsets. Each day on the TMB offers new and unforgettable vistas, making the journey as visually rewarding as it is physically challenging. If you complete the full circuit of the TMB you will climb over 9000 vertical metres, which is more than the height of Mount Everest!

Easy accessibility

One of the reasons the TMB is so highly rated is how accessible it is in comparison to a lot of other treks around the world. You won’t need to travel for days or remote locations to enjoy this iconic trek. Located in the heart of Europe you can easily reach your starting destination of Chamonix via the extensive railway network in Europe or via one of the major airports (Geneva, Zurich, Milan) within easy reach of Chamonix. You can literally be at the Eiffel tower in Paris in the morning and ready to start this epic hike later that day! Alternatively, because you are in the heart of Europe, onwards travel once you have finished your hike does not require lengthy travel plans. It really lends itself to being able to enjoy the best of hiking along with being within easy reach of the best sights in Europe.

Need to know

The European Alps summer hiking season officially starts in the second weekend of June and ends in the second last weekend in September. Find out more about the best time to trek Mont Blanc and then view  our walks on the Tour du Mont Blanc. There are delicious things to eat along the Mont Blanc trail too! For even more inspiration and expert advice, download our free European Alps Destination Guide

Amanda Thompson

Amanda is RAW Travel's specialist for Slovenia and the European Alps. With a passion for mountain treks and a wealth of industry experience, she's your go-to guru for planning the ultimate adventure. Former PT turned trekking expert, Amanda has the best training tips and insights to ensure your journey through the Alps is nothing short of epic.

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