Self-Guided Mont Blanc West Hiking Tour

Majestically rising among the highest peaks of the Alps, Mont Blanc stands as one of Europe’s most iconic mountain landscapes. Hiking around this magnificent massif leads you onto one of the most spectacular long-distance trails in the continent, the renowned Tour du Mont Blanc. Along the journey, hikers cross scenic high mountain passes, pass through charming alpine villages, and rest in welcoming mountain huts that offer warmth and comfort after rewarding days on the trail.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is considered one of the great classic hikes in the world and attracts adventurers from across the globe. Travellers come in search of breathtaking alpine panoramas, peaceful natural surroundings, and unspoilt landscapes that capture the true beauty of the mountains. This unforgettable journey through the heart of the Alps promises remarkable scenery and meaningful experiences that will stay with you long after the trek is complete.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Level

moderate

Avg. Daily Distance

15 km / 10 mi

Hiking Days

5

Lodging

Casual+ Inns

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Highlights

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Scenic Mountain Passes

Cross dramatic high passes along the Mont Blanc route that reveal sweeping views of glaciers, valleys, and rugged peaks. Each stage offers new perspectives of the surrounding mountain landscapes.

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Crystal-Clear Lakes

Encounter stunning mountain lakes such as Lac Blanc, famous for its turquoise waters and reflections of surrounding peaks. These serene locations create some of the most memorable moments of the journey.

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Charming Village Stops

Pass through picturesque mountain villages and peaceful hamlets filled with wooden chalets and welcoming cafés. These stops provide a glimpse into traditional life in the Mont Blanc region.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Martigny

Your journey begins in the charming alpine town of Martigny, located near the flowing Rhône River. Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, Martigny offers a peaceful introduction to the beauty of the Alps.

Take a short walk through the town and visit the historic La Bâtiaz Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the valley. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the many local restaurants before your alpine adventure begins.

Meals:
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Day 2: Argentière

In the morning, you will transfer to the small village of Trient, where your hike begins.

The trail climbs towards Col de Balme, a scenic mountain pass offering beautiful views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley. After a short rest at a mountain lodge, the path descends into grassy alpine meadows with grazing livestock.

You will then follow the ridge trail across Aiguillette des Posettes, where impressive panoramic views of glaciers and surrounding peaks accompany you. The day ends with a descent along a mountain stream to the alpine village of Argentière.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9 mi
Elevation Gain: 1070 m
Accommodation: Hotel le Dahu
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Day 3: Chamonix

Today is one of the most spectacular stages of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

You will climb rocky paths and secured ladders to reach the beautiful alpine lake Lac Blanc, known for its stunning views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks.

Later, the trail continues along the famous Grand Balcon, passing through alpine slopes and blueberry fields until you reach Plan Praz at around 2000 m. From here, you can take the cable car down to the lively alpine town of Chamonix, where colorful streets and cafés create a vibrant atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking Distance: 14 km / 9 mi
Elevation Gain: 1560 m
Accommodation: Hotel Oustalet
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Day 4: Les Houches

The day begins with a cable car ride high above the valley. From here you continue hiking towards Col du Brévent and the summit viewpoint of Le Brévent, famous for its spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif.

The trail passes the alpine lake Lac du Brévent before descending to Refuge de Bellachat. The path then continues through forested trails near Parc de Merlet before reaching the quiet alpine village of Les Houches, located in the scenic Arve Valley.

You will spend the night in one of the charming hamlets in this peaceful mountain valley.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7 mi
Elevation Gain: 550 m
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Day 5: Les Contamines

Today you will experience the famous Mont Blanc Tramway up close, walking for a short section along its historic railway tracks. From Bellevue, you can admire the impressive end station of this daringly constructed rack railway beside the glacier. The trail continues along a scenic alpine path leading to a suspension bridge over a rushing glacial stream. Afterwards, you hike through alpine meadows towards the Col de Tricot, before descending to the charming Miage Huts.

A final climb brings you to Truc d’Arly, a peaceful resting place surrounded by grazing cows. Your destination, Les Contamines-Montjoie, lies in the beautiful Montjoie Valley, known for its traditional Savoy cheeses produced in the surrounding alpine pastures.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11 mi
Elevation Gain: 1460 m
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Day 6: Bourg-Saint-Maurice

The final stage of the hike is both challenging and rewarding, offering breathtaking alpine scenery. The trail first follows the river to the baroque pilgrimage church Notre Dame de la Gorge, marking the beginning of a long climb into the high mountains.

You will ascend along a rocky alpine trail to the Col du Bonhomme and continue further to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, offering spectacular views across the southern part of the Mont Blanc Massif.

A welcome rest awaits at the Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme. From here, the trail descends through alpine meadows and mountain streams to the small village of Les Chapieux.

A short transfer will then bring you to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, where you will spend the final evening of your journey. Relax and celebrate the completion of your unforgettable alpine adventure.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11 mi
Elevation Gain: 1385 m
Accommodation: Hotel L'Autantic
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Day 7: Departure

After breakfast, your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure concludes. Departure from Bourg-Saint-Maurice or the possibility to extend your stay and explore more of the beautiful French Alps.

Meals: Breakfast

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.



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Essential Info

Inclusions

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.

Additional Inclusions

· Accommodation as mentioned with breakfast · Daily luggage transfer (1 piece of luggage per person, max. 15 kg) · Transfers as per program · Carefully elaborated route description · Digital travel documents incl. navigation app

Exclusions

Airport pickup

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty 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.

Start

Martigny

Finish

Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Fly-In

Geneva International Airport (GVA)

Fly-Out

Geneva International Airport (GVA)

Arrival

The tour starts in Martigny, which is easily accessible by several transport options. The nearest international gateway is Geneva Airport (IATA: GVA). From Geneva, Martigny can be reached by direct train in about 1.5 hours. Travellers coming from Zurich can reach Martigny by train in approximately 2.5–3 hours via Visp. Those arriving by car will find a limited number of parking spaces near the Martigny railway station available for about CHF 10 per day.

Departure

The tour ends in Bourg-Saint-Maurice. From here, travellers usually take a regional bus operated by Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alpes Regional Bus Network to nearby railway stations before continuing by train. The journey back to Martigny takes approximately 8 hours with several transfers. From Martigny, convenient train connections are available to major Swiss cities and to Geneva Airport for onward international flights.

The Tour du Mont Blanc, which circles the Mont Blanc Massif, experiences a typical alpine climate with cool summers and snowy winters. Weather conditions can change quickly due to high altitudes, with valleys such as Chamonix generally warmer than the mountain passes.

The best season for hiking is July and August, when trails are mostly snow-free and daytime temperatures range around 15–22 °C (59–72 °F) in the valleys and 8–14 °C (46–57 °F) at higher elevations.

June and September are considered a good season, offering pleasant conditions with temperatures around 10–18 °C (50–64 °F) in the valleys and 5–12 °C (41–54 °F) on high passes, although some snow patches may still remain.

May and October fall into a mixed season, when weather becomes more unpredictable and temperatures usually range between 5–12 °C (41–54 °F), sometimes dropping close to 0 °C (32 °F) at higher altitudes.

The off-season runs from November to April, when the route is largely covered with snow and temperatures can fall between -10 and 5 °C (14–41 °F), making regular trekking difficult.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Offseason

April

Offseason

May

Mixed

June

Good

July

Best

August

Best

September

Good

October

Mixed

November

Offseason

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

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.

Recommended Hiking Clothes & Gear

  • Lightweight hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
  • Moisture-wicking base layers and breathable hiking shirts.
  • Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts.
  • Light fleece or down jacket for cooler temperatures.
  • Waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Hiking poles (optional but recommended on uneven terrain).
  • Small daypack with hydration system or water bottles.
  • Headlamp or small flashlight.
  • Light gloves and beanie for early mornings or high altitudes.

Clothing

  • Layered clothing for temperature changes throughout the day.
  • Full-sleeved tops for sun and insect protection.
  • Comfortable evening wear for lodges or inns.
  • Compact rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
  • Extra socks (preferably synthetic or wool).

Other Necessities

  • Basic first-aid kit with personal medication.
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder.
  • Snacks like trail mix, nuts, or energy bars.
  • Plug adaptor and power bank for charging devices.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light — you’ll appreciate it on uphill climbs.
  • Break in your shoes before the trip to avoid blisters.
  • Keep rain gear easily accessible in your daypack.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

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 (including Covid-19), 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 via our reservation form. This is mandatory. 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. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

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, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

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