Chat with us on WhatsApp. We're just a message away.Self-Guided
at your own pace
7 days
99 km
~14 km/day
moderate
Chamonix
ends Annecy
2–12
participants
Casual+ Inns (4★)
Jul – Aug
Journey through the French Alps from iconic Chamonix to beautiful Lake Annecy on this self-guided hiking adventure. Traverse sections of the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc before entering the limestone peaks of the Aravis range. Discover authentic mountain villages including Grand Bornand, Chinaillon, and La Clusaz, each preserving traditional Savoyard architecture. Daily luggage transfers allow you to hike with just a daypack while enjoying comfortable 3-4 star accommodations. The route offers flexible daily options from moderate to challenging, passing through alpine meadows, across mountain passes, and alongside pristine lakes. Conclude your trek at stunning Lake Annecy, one of Europe's cleanest lakes.
Highlights
Hike highlighted sections of the world-famous Tour du Mont Blanc with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, hanging glaciers, and iconic peaks including Aiguille Verte and Les Drus.
Discover the best-preserved traditional villages of the Aravis region including Grand Bornand, Chinaillon, and La Clusaz, where architectural authenticity and mountain culture remain intact.
Conclude your alpine journey at stunning Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest lakes in France, with panoramic mountain views and the enchanting medieval city of Annecy to explore.
8 Days from $2,395
Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Chamonix | Hotel Heliopic (4-star) | - | - | |
| 02 | Chamonix | Hotel Heliopic (4-star) | B | 15 km / 9 mi | hiking |
| 03 | Chamonix | Hotel Heliopic (4-star) | B | 13 km / 8 mi | hiking |
| 04 | La Clusaz | Hotel les Sapins | B | 12 km / 7 mi | hiking |
| 05 | Le Chinaillon | Hotel Alpage | B, D | 15 km / 9 mi | hiking |
| 06 | Le Grand Bornand | Hotel La Croix Saint Maurice | B | 18 km / 11 mi | hiking |
| 07 | Annecy | Hotel Mercure Centre (4-star) | B | 15 km / 9 mi | hiking |
| 08 | Departure | - | B | 11 km / 7 mi | hiking |
Meals: B = Breakfast · L = Lunch · D = Dinner
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives.
Arrive in the legendary mountain town of Chamonix, nestled beneath the towering Mont Blanc massif. After checking into your hotel around 5pm, spend the afternoon exploring this iconic alpine village with its dramatic backdrop of rocky peaks and hanging glaciers. Use the evening to prepare for the hiking days ahead.
Meals: -
Accommodation: Hotel Heliopic (4-star)
A short morning public bus transfer (not included) brings you to the charming alpine village of Argentière, where today’s spectacular hike begins. The trail follows the breathtaking Balcon des Aiguilles Rouges route before climbing toward the stunning Lac Blanc. Throughout the hike, magnificent panoramas unfold around you, including views of Aiguille Verte, Les Drus, La Mer de Glace, the Aiguilles de Chamonix, Mont Blanc du Tacul, Aiguille du Goûter, and the majestic Mont Blanc.
The descent leads back toward Chamonix via Le Praz, with the option to shorten the descent by taking the Flégère cable car (not included).
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9 mi
Elevation Gain: 900 m
Accommodation: Hotel Heliopic (4-star)
Spend another memorable day exploring the world-famous alpine town of Chamonix at your own pace. Depending on seasonal snow conditions, you may take the cable car from Chamonix to Plan Praz or continue onward to Le Brévent (not included). From here, hike along the final section of the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc toward the village of Les Houches.
The trail rewards hikers with panoramic mountain scenery before concluding in Les Houches, from where you return to Chamonix by public train or bus (not included).
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
Elevation Gain: 515 m
Accommodation: Hotel Heliopic (4-star)
The day begins with a short transfer by train or public bus (not included) to the picturesque village of Les Houches. From here, board the Bellevue cable car (not included), avoiding the initial steep ascent and allowing for a gentler start to the hike.
The trail winds through peaceful forests and scenic alpine hamlets overlooking the beautiful Bionnassay Valley. Along the way, enjoy exceptional views of Mont Blanc, the Dôme du Goûter, and the striking Aiguille de Bionnassay glacier. Crossing the scenic Col de Tricot, the route descends through a series of beautiful switchbacks toward Chalet de Miage before continuing to the traditional alpine village of Les Contamines.
A private transfer included in the tour then takes you to the authentic mountain village of La Clusaz in the Aravis range.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7 mi
Elevation Gain: 640 m
Accommodation: Hotel les Sapins
After a public bus transfer to Lac des Confins, today’s scenic hike begins amidst the high mountain pastures of the Confins plateau. The trail passes through the dramatic Bouchet Valley beneath the towering limestone peaks of the Aravis range, including the impressive Pointe Percée.
Hiking beneath Pointe du Roulletaz, the path gently traverses mountain slopes before crossing the scenic passes of Borneronde and Annes. The mountain cottage at Col des Annes provides a perfect location for a relaxing lunch stop surrounded by alpine scenery. The trail then descends toward the peaceful hamlet of Le Chinaillon beneath the ridges of Pointes d’Almet, Grande Combe, and Pointe de Deux Heures.
Meals: B, D
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9 mi
Elevation Gain: 800 m
Accommodation: Hotel Alpage
Today’s hike climbs toward the ridge of Aiguille Verte overlooking the beautiful Lessy Lake. From the ridge, enjoy breathtaking views across the Aravis mountains and the striking summit of Pointe Percée.
The route continues over the Col de la Forclaz before descending to the hamlet of Mayse, where hikers can stop for refreshments or lunch. The trail then climbs again toward the Pass of Planay between Roc des Tours and Roc des Charmieux before descending through alpine landscapes toward Le Grand-Bornand.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11 mi
Elevation Gain: 1070 m
Accommodation: Hotel La Croix Saint Maurice
The day begins with an included private transfer to Montremont. From here, the hike ascends toward the Pass of Nantets on the slopes of La Tournette, the highest mountain overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Annecy.
The trail descends beneath the dramatic cliffs of Dents de Lanfon before continuing to the lakeside village of Talloires. From Talloires, you may take the scenic Navibus boat shuttle across the lake (not included), passing through Doussard and Duingt before arriving in Annecy. Alternatively, a public bus can be taken to Annecy.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9 mi
Elevation Gain: 600 m
Accommodation: Hotel Mercure Centre (4-star)
After breakfast and hotel check-out, the tour officially concludes in Annecy. Guests may choose to extend their stay or enjoy an optional final hike in the surrounding mountains.
For the optional hike, take a public bus toward Thônes to reach Col de Bluffy. The trail climbs along the ridge of Mont Barret before crossing the scenic Smugglers Pass and continuing toward Mont Baron and Mont Veyrier, both offering exceptional panoramic views over Lake Annecy and the French Alps. The route finally descends back toward the lakeshore
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 11 km / 7 mi
Elevation Gain: 735 m
Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Located in the heart of Chamonix facing the iconic Aiguille du Midi cable car, this elegant 4-star hotel is an ideal base for alpine adventures. The hotel features a luxurious 500 m² spa with an indoor pool, hammam, sauna, and ice grotto for relaxing after hiking days.
Situated in the heart of Annecy near the old town and the lake, this stylish 4-star hotel offers a modern and comfortable stay. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the canals, cafés, and beautiful lakeside atmosphere of Annecy.
Lodging
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
• Accommodation in a double occupancy room (2 people sharing): 7 nights
• Breakfasts (7)
• Dinner on Day 5 (Half-board)
• Luggage transfers
• Private transfer from Les Contamines to La Clusaz (Day 4)
• Private transfer from Le Grand Bornand to Montremont (Day 7)
• Digital travel packet
• Smartphone travel app use during trip with GPX files
• Tourist taxes
Airport Pickup
We recommend to book directly from airport.
Airport Drop
We recommend to book directly from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Chamonix
Annecy
Geneva International Airport (GVA)
Geneva International Airport (GVA)
**Arrival **
The tour begins in Chamonix with hotel check-in around 5:00 PM on Day 1. The nearest international airport is Geneva International Airport, located approximately 88 km from Chamonix. Travelers can reach Chamonix through several transportation options including Alpy Bus, Swiss Tours, FlixBus, and BlaBlaCar bus services, with journey times generally ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours. Train connections from Geneva Airport to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are also available via Switzerland and take approximately 3 hours. Private airport transfers can additionally be arranged upon arrival for a more comfortable journey.
**Departure **
The tour ends in Annecy after breakfast on Day 8, with hotel check-out at approximately 10:00 AM. Annecy is located around 45 km from Geneva International Airport and offers convenient onward travel connections. Travelers can take direct or connecting buses to Geneva Airport, with travel times of approximately 1 to 2 hours depending on the route. Train connections from Annecy Railway Station to Geneva Airport are also available and usually take around 1 hour. Private transfers to the airport can easily be arranged through your hotel in Annecy for added convenience.
The French Alps experience distinct seasons throughout the year, each offering a different atmosphere for exploring the region around Chamonix and Lake Annecy.
The best hiking season falls in July and August, when temperatures range between 15–25°C (59–77°F) and trails are fully accessible with stable weather and long sunny days.
June and September are considered the good season, offering cooler temperatures of around 8–22°C (46–72°F), blooming alpine meadows in early summer, and beautiful golden autumn scenery in September.
The mixed season includes May and October, with temperatures between 5–18°C (41–64°F) and more unpredictable mountain conditions, including lingering snow or early snowfall at higher elevations.
From November to April, the region enters the off-season for hiking, with temperatures often ranging from -8–8°C (18–46°F).During these winter months, heavy snowfall covers many mountain trails, transforming the Alps into a popular destination for skiing and snow activities instead of trekking.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Offseason
May
Mixed
June
Good
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.
Travelers from the European Union need a valid identity card or passport. Non-EU travelers should check visa requirements with French authorities in their home country well in advance of travel.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.
This is a level 3/5 tour requiring intermediate hiking experience. Daily hikes range from 4-7 hours with elevation gains between 400-1100 meters. Most days offer easier alternative routes to accommodate different fitness levels.
Your main luggage (maximum 15kg/33lbs per person, one bag) is transported by vehicle to your next accommodation each day. You only carry a daypack with essentials during hikes.
Early season departures (June) may have limited hiking options from Chamonix due to snowpack at higher elevations. Alternative routes will be provided in your travel packet if conditions require adjustments.
Breakfast is included all days except Day 1. Half-board (breakfast and dinner) is provided on Day 5 in Le Chinaillon. Other dinners are not included but excellent restaurant options are available in all villages, including at your hotels.
You receive a digital travel packet with smartphone app access containing GPX files and detailed route descriptions. Optional printed travel packets with maps and topo guides are available for an additional fee.
Public buses and cable cars around Chamonix, the bus to Lac des Confins (Day 5), boat ticket from Talloires to Annecy (Day 7), and optional Day 8 bus are not included but are easily accessible.
