Hiking Tour du Mont Blanc: The Best 11-Day Guide

Introduction

The Tour du Mont Blanc, also known as the TMB, is a 170km hike that goes through France, Italy, and Switzerland. It brings you all around the highest mountain in Europe. It can be completed in 5 to 11 days or even more, depending on how you want to tackle the 11 official stages and their variants.

An alternative is a 4-day half Tour du Mont Blanc. So, if you are unsure, you can do all the 11 stages, or if you want to try it out, you could start with this. The Tour du Mont Blanc has an official route, but also has many variants.

Along your way, you will need to choose if you want to follow the original trail or use a variant that may be even better. We actually went 3 times on the Tour du Mont Blanc, and that’s why we are writing this complete Tour du Mont Blanc Guide to help you in your self-guided hike around one of the most beautiful mountain chains in Europe.

If you want to get deeper into the Tour du Mont Blanc, we have a complete series of articles:

12 best Tour du Mont Blanc tips
The Best Tour du Mont Blanc Packing list 2025
15 Proven ways to shortcut the TMB
10 Easy Ways to Escape the TMB

Couple on a rocky summit with Mont Blanc sprawling behind during the TMB Stage 10 from from Tre-le-champs to Flégère — Toward la Flegère

Tip: We hike with Osprey backpacks and can’t recommend them enough — the Talon 44 and Tempest 40 are comfortable, durable, and great for any adventure.

About the Tour du Mont Blanc

Introduction

Le Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most spectacular trails in the world. The trail consists of 11 stages and over 10 variants. Along the way, hikers can choose which option they prefer. Its route passes through beautiful valleys, adorable hamlets, charming landscapes, rugged mountains, crystal clear rivers, and white snow.

Hiker seated on a viewpoint rock looking to the Aiguilles — Between Tre-le-Champs and the TMB Ladder

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

The official stages

Likewise, you can hike the Tour du Mont Blanc both clockwise and anti-clockwise. However, hikers traditionally do it anti-clockwise and start in Les Houches (France). Just a few people chose the clockwise option and would usually start in Champex (Switzerland)

Stage 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines
Stage 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux
Stage 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta
Stage 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur
Stage 5: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti
Stage 6: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly
Stage 7: La Fouly to Champex
Stage 8: Champex to Col de la Forclaz/Trient
Stage 9: Trient/Col de la Forclaz to Tre-le-Champ
Stage 10: Tre-le-Champ to Refuge La Flegere
Stage 11: Refuge La Flegere to Les Houches

Classic view across Lac de Chéserys to the Mont Blanc massif — Lac de Cheresys

Read: The Ultimate Half Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking Guide: Your Half Adventure

Weather

Mountain weather is unpredictable and constantly changing, making most weather apps and forecasts unreliable in advance. For reference, we hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc at the end of June and experienced sunny days with only one rainy night, despite a different forecast.

Two hikers sitting on rocks overlooking a wide valley with mountain peaks in the distance, enjoying the view. — Refuge de Nant Borrant to Refuge de la Balme

We also trekked in mid-July, where the weather was exceptionally sunny—even too hot at times. However, during our late August to early September attempt, we had to stop due to four consecutive days of nonstop rain.

Two hikers in rain jackets with backpacks smiling at the camera on a wet road in the mountains. — TMB Stage 8 Start

Tip: Make sure to pack quality waterproof jackets — one for him and one for her — they’ll make all the difference on rainy days.

Best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

Officially, the Tour du Mont Blanc opens from mid-June to mid-September.

The middle of June is a great time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc as the trail will be almost empty. But you will have to deal with snow-covered sections on the trail, or you won’t be able to use the variant you wanted to.
The end of June is probably the best time to be on the Tour du Mont Blanc. Most of the snow is already melted, and what’s left is trekkable. Plus, the crowd will not yet be there. And you will not need to organise everything in advance. (That is the time we chose)
The middle of July and August is the busiest time on the trek, but also the time when the trail will be fully available.
September will again be less crowded. But the weather will also become colder and with higher chances of rain.

Rocky ascent with a view to the Mont Blanc massif — From Tre-le-Champs to the TMB Ladders

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

How difficult is the Tour du Mont Blanc

It is a demanding trail, you are looking at long days with breath-taking views. Most importantly, you will ascend to the mountain and descend to the valley continuously and day after day. Above all, some days you will walk over 1000m up/down. What can affect your trail the most is your decision about staying in mountain huts or camping. As a camper, you will have to carry more gear and your backpack will be heavier.

There is only one technical part which isn’t too hard and it is the ladder on the Stage 10.

Climbers ascending a vertical iron ladder under cloudless skies — TMB Ladders

Tip: We use Black Diamond walking poles for Men and Women — sturdy, lightweight, and perfect for both easy trails and tougher hikes.

Food & Water

Firstly, the Tour du Mont Blanc passes through many villages. So you will be able to buy food regularly and will not need to carry it in your bags. If you do not want to bother, you can also eat in mountain huts along the way. Most of them offer lunch menus. And if you stay overnight, they even offer lunchboxes.

Secondly, if you are a vegetarian, you will also be able to find alternatives. But vegans will have a harder time and will probably have to cook their own meals.

Thirdly, you can find water easily along the road, so no need to carry 3L of water with you, as there are many wells around. Plus, most of the shelters will refill it for you.

Trail lunch in the woods: Jetboil mug in foreground, hiker eating beside packs. — Leaving Trient

Tip: Always travel with a filtered water bottle — it saves money, reduces plastic waste, and keeps you hydrated wherever you go.

The money stuff

In short, in towns most of the places accept credit cards, but up in the mountains, cash will be the only means of payment. Be sure that you carry enough of it with you. Meanwhile, in Italy and France, the currency is the euro. Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc but often accepts euros.

Relaxing with a beer above Chamonix, glaciers and lifts in view — La Flegère

Check our Google Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Mobile network

Well, on most of the trek, you will be able to get a cellular network, but don’t expect to be online all the time. For example, from Col des Fours to Col Chécrouit, there is no network. But that’s really only for a short part of the trek where you won’t especially need mobile networks.

Snow-capped mountain peak under a blue sky with patches of clouds and alpine ridges. — Tête nord des Fours

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Wild Camping

Wild Camping is not recommended at all and often prohibited:

In Italy, wild camping is strictly prohibited, and you should avoid doing it. The local authorities and people do not joke with it. Italian law says: free camping is forbidden (allowed only above 2.500 m from sunset to dawn)
In Switzerland, it is the same; wild camping is simply and strictly prohibited. And people would denounce you to the authorities.
In France, it is another story. And you can wild camp without too much trouble. As the local law says, ‘free camping is allowed only at high altitude between sunset and sunrise’. But without a clear definition of the altitude.

Tent pitched on an alpine ridge with breathtaking mountain views and snow-dusted peaks in the background. — Col de la Croix du Bonhomme

Tip: We used this MSR tent — super reliable, easy to set up, and held up perfectly in all weather conditions.

The Tour du Mont Blanc Guide

Introduction

The official starting point of the Tour du Mont Blanc is in Les Houches, France, where we both began and ended our trek. Throughout the journey, we opted for some variant routes whenever possible, allowing us to experience even more breathtaking landscapes. In the end, our preferred route is:

Posing under the Tour du Mont Blanc start/finish arch in Les Houches. — Tour du Mont Blanc Sign at the Les Houches

Tip: We hike with Osprey backpacks and can’t recommend them enough — the Talon 44 and Tempest 40 are comfortable, durable, and great for any adventure.

Overview

Day 1: Les Houches – Col de Voza – Bionnassay – Champel – Tresse – Les Contamines-Montjoie
Day 2: Les Contamines-Montjoie – Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge – Nant Borrant – La Balme – Col du Bonhomme – Col de la Croix du Bonhomme
Day 3: Col des Fours – Tête Nord – La Ville des Glaciers – Mottets – Col de la Seigne – la Casermetta – Refuge Elisabetta
Day 4: Refuge Elisabetta – Lac Combal – Arp-Vieille supérieure – Lac Chécrouit – Col Chécrouit – Plan Chécrouit – Dolonne – Courmayeur
Day 5: Courmayeur – Rifugio Bertone – Rifugio Bonatti
Day 6: Rifugio Bonatti – Chalet Val Ferret – Rifugio Elena – Grand Col Ferret – La Peule – Val Ferret – La Fouly
Day 7: La Fouly – Saleinaz – Champex
Day 8: Champex – Plan de l’Au – Bovine – Trient – Le Peuty
Day 9: Le Peuty – Col de Balme – Aiguillette des Posettes – Tre-le-champ
Day 10: Tre-le-champ – Lac de Cheresys – Lac Blanc – La Flégère
Day 11: La Flégère – PlanPraz- Brévent – Col de Brévent – Les Houches

Two hikers sitting with backpacks on the grass, overlooking the Mont Blanc massif under a clear blue sky during the TMB Stage 5 from Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti — Rifugio Bonatti

Tip: Always travel with a filtered water bottle — it saves money, reduces plastic waste, and keeps you hydrated wherever you go.

The Tour du Mont Blanc Stage by Stage

Day 1: Les Houches – Les Contamines

f you’re planning to start the Tour du Mont Blanc on the same day you arrive, it’s totally doable. Many hikers begin their trek around 11 AM, which still gives enough time to complete the first stage. We left by car at 5 AM and arrived in Les Houches by 11 AM, ready to hit the trail.

Where to Park in Les Houches

If you’re driving, there’s a free official Tour du Mont Blanc parking lot behind the cable car station “Le Prarion”. It’s located at: 31 Chemin du Verney du Fouilly, 74310 Les Houches
Once you arrive, follow the “Tour du Mont Blanc Parking” sign all the way to the end of the road. Avoid parking near the cable car station, as that area is for day visitors.

Parking lot at Les Houches surrounded by greenery with several parked cars on a rainy day. — Parking lot at Les Houches

Getting to Les Houches from Chamonix: If you’re coming from Chamonix, free shuttle buses run regularly to Les Houches, making it super easy to reach the trailhead.

If you want a more relaxed start, consider arriving in Les Houches the day before and staying overnight in a camping or hotel to get a good rest before beginning the trek.

Where to stay in Les Houches: Camping Bellevue, Camping Le Pontet, or a Hotel for more comfort. We would recommend staying at RockyPop

There are several places where you can officially start the Tour du Mont Blanc, depending on where you’re staying. The most common starting points are near the Bellevue cable car or the Le Prarion cable car station in Les Houches.

Wooden steps leading uphill past chalets in Les Houches under a cloudy sky. — Trailhead TMB

To find the trail, look for a Tour du Mont Blanc sign followed by one of these destinations:

Col de Voza
Bionnassay
Champel
Tresse
Les Contamines-Montjoie

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 1 Hiking Stats:

Distance: 5 km
Highest point: 1,653m
Lowest point: 1,000m

View of alpine meadows and chalets with a hiker walking toward Mont Blanc’s snowy peaks in the distance on the TMB Stage 1 from Les Houches to Les Contamines — Les Houches to Col de Voza

The trail wastes no time. Stage 1 gives you a taste of the climb-and-reward rhythm that defines the TMB. Expect a steady uphill through forests and alpine meadows before reaching Col de Voza, where sweeping views of the Mont Blanc massif open up.

Female hiker on a forest trail with trekking poles and a large green backpack cover. — Les Houches to Col de Voza

From there, the path continues past quaint hamlets and traditional chalets, eventually descending into the valley of Les Contamines-Montjoie, your stop for the night.

Hiker walking along a quiet alpine path lined with chalets and greenery, carrying a large backpack. — Trail from Col de Voza to Fioux and Bionnassay

Where to Stay Overnight: At the end of the first stage, you can set up camp or stay in a gîte at Le Pontet.

Located about 40 minutes (3-4 km) after Les Contamines, Camping Le Pontet is a great overnight stop along the Tour du Mont Blanc. If you prefer to save energy, you can take the free shuttle from Les Contamines, which conveniently drops you off right in front of the camping area.

Service: Toilets, hot showers, electricity at the shower area, sinks, café/bar, covered and open area for cooking.
Online: 4G coverage of the area
Cost: 17€ for two with our tent.

Tent set up on the grass at Camping Le Pontet surrounded by trees and mountains. — Camping Le Pontet

Read: Stage 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

Variant 1: Bivouac Nant Borrant

If you continue along the Tour du Mont Blanc trail for about one more hour beyond Camping Le Pontet, you’ll reach Refuge de Nant Borrant. This is a great option for those looking to shorten the following day’s hike.

Service: Dry toilets, drinkable water at the shelter, meals available at the shelter.

Variant 2: Refuge de la Balme

If you continue hiking for another hour beyond Refuge de Nant Borrant, you’ll reach Refuge de la Balme. This is another great option to spend the night before tackling the next stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB).

Service: Public toilets, drinkable water, sinks, meals available at the shelter

Mountain refuge with Tibetan prayer flags and wooden chalets at the foot of alpine peaks along the Tour du Mont Blanc. — Refuge de Nant Borrant to Refuge de la Balme

Check our Google Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Day 2: Les Contamines – Col de la Croix du Bonhomme

Route: Les Contamines-Montjoie – Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge – Nant Borrant – La Blame – Col du Bonhomme – Col de la Croix du Bonhomme.

This stage follows the official Tour du Mont Blanc route, gradually gaining elevation as you hike from Les Contamines-Montjoie up to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. The ascent is steady, passing through Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge, Nant Borrant, and La Balme before reaching the high mountain pass.

Hiker walking along a wide mountain trail with stunning peaks and clear blue sky on the way to Refuge Nant Borrant during the TMB Stage 2 from Les Contamines to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme — Refuge de Nant Borrant to Refuge de la Balme

Why stop at Col de la Croix du Bonhomme? Spending the night here allows you to take the Col des Fours variant the next day, offering some of the most breathtaking views on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 2 Hiking Stats:

Total Distance: 13,6km
Highest point: 2,482m
Lowest point: 1,139m
Elevation gain: 1,464m
Elevation loss: -1,055m/-185m

Mountain refuge on a snowy ridge surrounded by alpine peaks with scenic hiking trails nearby during the Half TMB — Col de la Croix du Bonhomme Refuge

Stay the night at the wild camping area near Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme, a scenic and peaceful spot along the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Service: Dry Toilets, hot showers for 3€, electricity in the shelter kitchen, sinks, café/bar, covered and open area for cooking, kitchen available for free at the shelter, drinkable water.
Online: 3G coverage of the area
Cost: Free, 3€ for the shower.

View from inside a tent looking out to the mountains, with a person practicing yoga outdoors under a clear blue sky. — Col de la Croix du Bonhomme

Read: Stage 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Variant 1: Les Chapieux

If you decide to skip the Col des Fours variant and stick to the original Tour du Mont Blanc route, continue hiking 5-6 km downhill to Les Chapieux, dropping approximately 900m in elevation. This will set you up for the next stage from Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta.

Stay in the wild camping area in Les Chapieux near the tourist office.

Service: Toilet and sink in the tourist office

Or stay in the Auberge refuge de la Nova.

From Les Chapieux, you can take a bus to Refuge des Mottets in the morning, cutting out 2 hours of hiking. However, this bus only operates in July and August, so be sure to check availability before relying on this shortcut.

Day 3: Col de la Croix du Bonhomme – Rifugio Elisabetta

Route: Col des Fours – Tête Nord – La Ville des Glaciers – Mottets – Col de la Serigne – la Casermetta – Rifugio Elisabetta

Start the day by heading behind the refuge to begin the Col des Fours variant. The steep climb leads to Tête Nord des Fours (2756m), offering incredible panoramic views. After soaking in the scenery, descend to Col des Fours, where early-season snow may cover the trail.

Two hikers celebrating on a mountain summit with snowy peaks and bright blue sky on the TMB Stage 3 Variant from Croix du bonhomme to Rifugio Elisabetta — Tête nord des Fours

Continue down into the valley, passing through Ville des Glaciers and crossing a bridge to rejoin the official Tour du Mont Blanc route. From there, tackle the ascent to Col de la Seigne (2516m), the border between France and Italy, with breathtaking views of the Italian Alps.

Hiker making their way down a snowy pass with mountain ridges and valleys under a partly cloudy sky. — From Tête nord des Fours to Refuge Mottets

Finally, descend into Italy, enjoying the stunning landscapes as you make your way to Rifugio Elisabetta, where you’ll spend the night.

Two hikers resting on the grass with backpacks, enjoying wide views of a green valley. — From Col de la Seigne to Rifugio Elisabetta

Stay at Rifugio Elisabetta, as there isn’t any camping option there.

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 3 Hiking Stats:

Distance: 17km
Highest point: 2,727m
Lowest point: 1,777m
Elevation gain: 1,214m
Elevation loss: -1454m

Mountain refuge set on a ridge with snow-capped peaks and glaciers behind. — Rifugio Elisabetta

Facilities at Rifugio Elisabetta:

Service: Toilets, hot showers for 2€, electricity in the common area, sinks, café/bar, restaurants, drinkable water
Online: No coverage of the area
Cost: 48€ per person in a dormitory half-board, 62€ per person in a double room half-board, 2€ for a shower. Cash Only.

Inside a wooden dorm room with bunk beds where hikers are unpacking their gear. — Rifugio Elisabetta

Read: Stage 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

Variant 1: Stay in Cabane du Combal

If you want to extend your hike, continue for about an hour down the valley from Rifugio Elisabetta to Cabane du Combal. This peaceful spot offers a more secluded overnight option with stunning valley views.

Services: Toilets, hot showers, electricity, sinks, café/bar, restaurant, and drinkable water.
Online: No mobile coverage in the area.

Backpacker walking toward a chalet with a steep red roof, surrounded by alpine peaks. — From Rifugio Elisabetta to Cabane du Combal

Variant 2: Camping Val Veny

For an alternative overnight stay, continue hiking for about two more hours after Cabane du Combal. Here, you’ll need to leave the official Tour du Mont Blanc route by crossing the bridge just before the Cabane du Combal and continuing through the Val Veny valley. If you’re trekking in July or August, you’ll find a bus service available along this route, making it easier to reach the campgrounds.

In Val Veny, you’ll find three campgrounds located next to each other:

Camping Hobo – A unique experience in nature
Camping Aiguille Noire
Camping Monte-Bianco La Sorgente

Facilities

Services: Toilets, hot showers, electricity, sinks, café/bar, restaurant, and drinkable water.
Online: 3G Network coverage.

The next day, you can either take the bus or hike back to Lac Combal to continue following the Tour du Mont Blanc trail. Alternatively, you can head directly to Courmayeur, but this means skipping a particularly scenic section of the trek.

Day 4: Rifugio Elisabetta – Courmayeur

Follow the traditional Tour du Mont Blanc route, but make a detour to visit Cabane du Combal and the stunning Miage Lake and Glacier.

Two hikers sitting on rocks near a glacier lake with jagged peaks and clouds in the background. — Miage Lake

After taking in the views, rejoin the main Tour du Mont Blanc trail and continue towards Courmayeur.

Backpacker hiking on a rocky path overlooking a vast valley with snow-capped mountains. — Cabane du Combal to Vieille Arps Supérieur

If you’re hiking in mid-July or August, you can shorten the descent into Courmayeur by taking the cable car from Plan Chécrouit, cutting about 1 hour and 30 minutes of hiking.

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 4 Hiking Stats:

Distance: 15 km
Highest point: 2,424m
Lowest point: 1,176m
Elevation gain: 648m
Elevation loss: -1,625

Stay at Hotel Stella Del Nord, conveniently located just before Courmayeur. This cozy hotel offers a comfortable stay with great amenities, making it a perfect place to rest after a long day on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Cozy hotel room with a red bedspread decorated with hearts, wooden furniture, and warm lighting. — Hotel Stella Del Nord

In Courmayeur/Dolonne, stay at Hotel Stella Del Nord

Service: Toilets, hot showers, electricity in the room, sinks, café/bar, restaurants, drinkable water, free sparkling and mineral water, free tea and biscuits, breakfast.
Online: 4G coverage and WIFI
Cost: 80€ + 2€ staying fees

Exterior of Hotel Stella del Nord with its large yellow sign, set against a mountain backdrop. — Hotel Stella Del Nord

Read: Stage 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

Variant 1: Camping Grande Jorasses

When you arrive in Courmayeur, you will pass by the bus station. From there, hop on the free shuttle 924 toward Val Ferret to reach Camping Grandes Jorasses. This is a convenient and easy way to get to your campsite without extra effort after a long day on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Service: Toilets, hot showers, electricity, sinks, café/bar, pizzeria, drinkable water.
Online: 4G coverage

Check our Google Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Day 5: Courmayeur – Rifugio Bonatti

Route: Courmayeur – Rifugio Bertone – Rifugio Bonatti

This is one of the shortest days on the Tour du Mont Blanc. The day starts with a steady uphill climb to Rifugio Bertone (about 2 hours).

Two hikers with backpacks standing under tall trees, gazing at the panoramic mountain views. — Courmayeur to Rifugio Bertone

From there, follow the official Tour du Mont Blanc trail towards Rifugio Bonatti, one of the most scenic sections of the entire trek. Once past Bertone, the views become absolutely breathtaking.

We reached Rifugio Bonatti by 1:35 PM, after approximately 5 hours of hiking.

Two hikers with backpacks talking on a grassy plateau with panoramic mountain views. — Rifugio Bertone to Rifugio Bonatti

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 5 Hiking Stats:

Total distance: 11.9 km
Elevation gain: +1,373m
Elevation loss: -533m
Highest elevation: 2,171m
Lowest elevation: 1,205m

Wide view of Rifugio Bonatti sitting on a grassy slope under a bright blue sky with mountain peaks in the background. — Rifugio Bonatti

Be sure to book your stay at Rifugio Bonatti

Stay at Rifugio Bonatti

Services: Toilets, hot showers, electricity in rooms, sinks, café/bar, restaurant, drinkable water, breakfast.
Connectivity: 4G coverage available.
Cost: €160 (2–4 bed room, half board).

Read: Stage 5: From Courmayeur to Bonatti

Variant 1: Camping

Camping Options on Stage 5

If you prefer to camp instead of staying at Rifugio Bonatti, you’ll need to descend into the Val Ferret Valley, where you’ll find a few campgrounds such as:

Camping Tronchey
Camping Grandes Jorasses

During high season, shuttle buses run between the valley and the campgrounds, making it easier to connect back to the trail.

Campground Services:

Toilets and hot showers
Electricity
Sinks and drinkable water
Café/bar and pizzeria
4G coverage available

Variant 2: Stage 6

If you find this stage too short and want to keep going, you have several options to extend your hike further along the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Option 1: Hike to Chalet Val Ferret or Rifugio Elena

You can continue to Rifugio Elena, located just before the border into Switzerland. This option adds 7.17 km with an elevation gain of +500m and descent of -478m, making it a reasonable extension for the day.

Alpine refuge buildings surrounded by mountains near Grand Col Ferret. — Val Ferret to Rifugio Elena

Option 2: Combine Stage 5 and Stage 6

For those looking for a long and challenging day, you can push through all the way to the end of Stage 6, crossing into Switzerland and reaching La Fouly.

Total Distance: 19.3 km
Elevation Gain: +1133m
Elevation Loss: -1557m
Highest Elevation: 2538m
Lowest Elevation: 1600m

At the end of the day, you’ll be staying at one of the accommodations available in La Fouly or camping in the valley. This will allow you to shorten your overall trek by one day and enjoy a well-deserved rest in Switzerland.

Tent pitched on grassy ground at Camping des Glaciers with mountains behind. — Camping des Glaciers

Day 6: Rifugio Bonatti – La Fouly

Waking up at Rifugio Bonatti with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc is an unforgettable experience. This stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most scenic, offering panoramic landscapes as you make your way toward Switzerland.

Hiker posing joyfully beside old stone alpine houses with glaciers in the background on the TMB Stage 6 from Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly — Rifugio Bonatti to Val Ferret

The day begins with a beautiful descent to Chalet Val Ferret, followed by a steady uphill hike to Rifugio Elena. From there, the climb continues to Grand Col Ferret (2538m), marking the border between Italy and Switzerland.

Couple sitting together on the grass overlooking mountains from Grand Col Ferret. — Val Ferret to Rifugio Elena

As you cross into Switzerland, the descent begins, leading into the stunning Val Ferret Valley. The trail winds through alpine meadows and charming Swiss scenery before arriving in La Fouly, where you’ll set up camp for the night.

Couple sitting on grassy slope admiring the valley view near La Fouly. — Grand Col Ferret to La Fouly

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 6 Hiking Stats:

Total Distance: 19.3 km
Elevation Gain: +1133m
Elevation Loss: -1557m
Highest Elevation: 2538m
Lowest Elevation: 1600m

View from inside a tent showing two people’s feet and alpine forest outside. — Camping des Glaciers

Where to Stay: Camping des Glaciers

Facilities at Camping des Glaciers

Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, electricity, sinks, a restaurant, drinkable water, and a small shop.
Connectivity: 4G coverage and WiFi available.
Cost: 27€

Read: Stage 6: From Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Variant 1: Hotel

If you prefer to stay in a hotel or a mountain hut, there are a few options as you are in La Fouly:

Hotel Edelweiss
Auberge-restaurant des Glaciers

And even a few more options a bit before la Fouly.

Day 7: La Fouly – Champex

The Swiss section of the Tour du Mont Blanc takes you further away from Mont Blanc itself, making this part of the trail less scenic than the dramatic alpine sections. However, it still offers charming Swiss valleys, quaint villages, and peaceful forests as you start looping around the mountain range to return to the French side.

Hiker walking on a dirt road surrounded by forest and mountains on the trail to Champex. — La Fouly to Champex

The day begins with an easy walk through a picturesque valley, passing traditional Swiss villages. After this pleasant start, the trail transitions into a steady uphill climb through dense forests, which lasts for most of the day. Eventually, you’ll descend toward Champex-Lac, a small alpine town set beside a stunning mountain lake.

Hiker climbing a steep forest trail with trekking poles surrounded by tall pine trees. — La Fouly to Champex

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 7 Hiking Stats:

Total Distance: 15.9 km
Elevation Gain: +1203m
Elevation Loss: -1330m
Highest Elevation: 1671m
Lowest Elevation: 1051m

Panoramic view of a deep green valley covered in forests and dramatic mountain cliffs. — La Fouly to Champex

Where to Stay: Camping Les Rocailles

Facilities at Camping Les Rocailles

Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, electricity, sinks, restaurant, drinkable water, and a small shop.
Connectivity: 4G coverage and WiFi available.
Cost: 35.70€

Two tents pitched on grassy ground at Camping Les Rocailles surrounded by alpine nature. — Champex Camping les Rocailles

Read: Stage 7: From La Fouly to Champex-Lac

Variant 1: Hotel

If you prefer to stay in a hotel or a mountain hut, there are a few options as you are in Champex:

Hotel Auberge: Au Vieux Champex

Variant 2: Col d’Arpette

If the weather is clear and sunny, taking the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant is highly recommended for some of the most dramatic and rewarding views on the Tour du Mont Blanc. This high-altitude route offers a more challenging and rugged climb, but the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking panoramas.

Unfortunately, on our trek, rainy conditions forced us to take the official route instead. Since the Fenêtre d’Arpette is steep and rocky, bad weather can make it dangerously slippery, and fog can reduce visibility significantly.

If you decide to take this alternative route, walk past Champex-Lac and continue for about 1.5 km to reach Hôtel Relais d’Arpette, where you can also find camping options. This is a great place to stay overnight before tackling the Fenêtre d’Arpette the next day.

Check our Google Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Day 8: Champex – Le Peuty

Route: Champex – Plan de l’Au – Bovine – Col de Forclaz – Trient – Le Peuty

This stage was one of the least enjoyable for us due to non-stop rain, making the trail muddy and visibility poor. However, in good weather, this section can be a rewarding forested climb with occasional panoramic views.

Hiker in green rain jacket climbing a misty trail on a grassy mountain slope. — From Champex to Col de Forclaz

The day starts with a relatively easy walk through the valley before transitioning into a steep forest ascent toward Bovine, a well-known high-pasture area. After reaching the top, the trail flattens out slightly, offering some relief before descending into Trient and then Le Peuty, where we camped for the night.

View of mist-covered mountains and a sea of clouds above pine trees on the TMB near Trient. — Summit on TMB Stage 8

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 8 Hiking Stats:

Total distance: 17.1 km
Elevation gain: +1562 m
Elevation loss: -1372 m
Highest elevation: 2053 m
Lowest elevation: 1282 m

Dense fog over alpine meadow with pine trees fading into the mist on a rainy day. — From Champex to Col de Forclaz

Stay at Camping Le Peuty

This is one of the most basic campgrounds on the Tour du Mont Blanc; it belongs to the town hall, is free, and no reservation is needed, making it a budget-friendly option.

Facilities:

Toilets (no toilet paper)
Basic showers (cold water)
One electricity outlet (limited availability)
Sinks & drinkable water
Nearby restaurant
4G coverage available
Cost: 0€

Read: Stage 8: Champex to le Peuty

Variant 1: Camping/Hotel de la Forclaz

If you’re looking for a more comfortable camping option, you can stay at Hôtel de la Forclaz, which offers a designated camping area with better facilities than Le Peuty. However, staying here will make your next day longer, as you’ll need to walk down to Le Peuty the following morning before starting Stage 9.

This option is great if you prefer hot showers, more amenities, and a better night’s sleep, but keep in mind the extra distance added to the next day’s hike.

Mountain hut and road at Col de la Forclaz on a rainy day surrounded by misty forest slopes. — Col de Forclaz

Variant 2: Hotel

If you’re looking for a more comfortable stay instead of camping at Le Peuty, Trient offers a few great options:

L’ Auberge du Mont Blanc
La Grande Ourse

Charming yellow hotel at Trient with hiker arriving on a rainy day, surrounded by mountains. — Trient

Day 9: Le Peuty – Tre-le-champ

Route: Le Peuty – Col de Balme – Aiguillette des Posettes – Tre-le-Champ

Today, we leave Switzerland behind and re-enter France, marking the beginning of the most scenic part of the Tour du Mont Blanc. From here on, expect stunning views of Mont Blanc that will accompany you until the end of the trek.

Trekker approaching Refuge du Col de Balme with red shutters; Mont Blanc behind. — Col de Balme’s Mountain hut

Start the day with a steady ascent to Col de Balme, where a mountain hut awaits—a perfect spot for a well-deserved break. From there, the trail leads to Aiguillette des Posettes, featuring a small descent followed by a short climb. The final stretch is a long descent to Tre-le-Champ, where you’ll spend the night.

Hiker standing on a rocky outcrop with trekking poles, overlooking Mont Blanc and the French Alps. — Col de Balme to Col des Posettes

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 9 Hiking Stats:

Total distance: 13.6 km
Elevation gain: +1231 m
Elevation loss: -1116 m
Highest elevation: 2208 m
Lowest elevation: 1283 m

Hiker on a rocky perch under dramatic sunrays, Mont Blanc massif beyond. — TMB Stage 9 from Trient to Tre-le-Champs

Where to Stay: Auberge de la Boerne (Camping & Hut Options)

Facilities at Auberge de la Boerne

Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, electricity, sinks, restaurant, drinkable water
Internet: Poor 4G at the camping spot, strong on the road, WiFi available
Cost: 16€

If you prefer a mountain hut experience, the Auberge de la Boerne also offers dormitories, private rooms, and tent rentals for added comfort.

Campsite at Tré-le-Champ filled with colorful tents and hikers resting after a stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc. — Auberge de la Boerne

Read: Stage 9: Le Peuty to Tre-le-champ

Day 10: Tre-le-champ – La Flégère

Route: Tre-le-Champ – Lac de Chéserys – Lac Blanc – La Flégère

Today is one of the most unique stages of the Tour du Mont Blanc, featuring incredible scenery and the famous ladders—a thrilling yet manageable section of the trail. The ascent toward La Flégère starts gently before leading to the metal ladders, which allow hikers to navigate the steep cliffs safely. These ladders are suitable for everyone, and we even saw older hikers and kids using them with ease.

Ladder climb above Tré-le-Champ with spire-like rocks and the valley below — TMB Ladders

At the intersection near Tête aux Vents, you have the option to head straight to La Flégère, but we highly recommend taking the scenic route via Lac de Chéserys and Lac Blanc. These alpine lakes offer breathtaking reflections of the surrounding peaks and are among the most beautiful spots on the Tour du Mont Blanc. The extra detour is well worth it and won’t add too much distance to this relatively short stage.

Tiny alpine pond on rolling meadows above Chamonix — From Lac Blanc to La Flegère

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 10 Hiking Stats:

Total distance: 8.13 km
Elevation gain: +1166 m
Elevation loss: -685 m
Highest elevation: 2351 m
Lowest elevation: 1398 m

Hiker gazing across the valley toward jagged spires — Between Tre-le-Champs and the TMB Ladder

Where to Stay: Refuge de La Flégère (Camping & Hut Options)

Facilities at Refuge de La Flégère

Facilities: Toilets, restaurant
Internet: Weak 4G at the camping spot, strong on the main road, WiFi available
Cost: Free (for camping)

Additional Notes:

If you have dinner at the refuge, you can access hot showers for 2€.
If you buy a drink, you can charge your electronics and refill your drinkable water.
The refuge also offers rooms and dormitories for those preferring indoor accommodation.

Tent pitched on a fenced viewpoint at La Flégère facing the Aiguilles — La Flegère

Read: Stage 10: From Tre-le-champ to La Flégère

Day 11: La Flégère – Les Houches

Route: La Flégère – PlanPraz – Brévent – Col de Brévent – Les Houches

The final stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is as stunning as it is rewarding. The day begins with a relatively gentle and scenic walk from La Flégère to PlanPraz, offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. From PlanPraz, the trail ascends toward Brévent, where a few more ladders await before reaching Col de Brévent (2480m), the highest point of the day. The panoramic views from the top make this climb totally worth the effort.

Hiker on green balcony trail; Mont Blanc behind and a paraglider above. — From PlanPraz to Brevent

After soaking in the incredible scenery, it’s time for the long descent back to Les Houches. The first section is a rugged, rocky trail, followed by a more gradual forested descent. While the final stretch can feel long, the satisfaction of completing the Tour du Mont Blanc keeps you going!

Descending stone steps from Brévent with Mont Blanc spanning the horizon. — From Brevent to Bellachat

Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 11 Hiking Stats:

Total distance: 18 km
Elevation gain: +1270 m
Elevation loss: -2145 m
Highest elevation: 2480 m
Lowest elevation: 978 m

Steep zigzags dropping toward Les Houches; town visible far below. — From Bellachat to les Houches

Where to Stay: Camping Bellevue (Les Houches)

Facilities at Camping Bellevue (Les Houches)

Facilities: Toilets, sinks, hot showers, electricity, drinkable water
Internet: 4G coverage
Cost: 16€

If you prefer more comfort, now that you’re back in the valley, you can find accommodations in Les Houches, Chamonix, or nearby towns. Regular buses connect Les Houches to other areas, making it easy to reach your next stay.

Camping Bellevue—MSR tent pitched with wide valley and peaks behind. — Camping Bellevue Les Houches

Read: Stage 11: From La Flégère to Les Houches

Cost of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Without taking into account the transportation or the food (only half board when mandatory in Italy), and if you follow the same route we did, you will be spending for 2:

Camping le Pontet: 17€
Shower in Refuge Col de la Croix du Bonhomme : 6€
Rifugio Elisabetta: 128€
Hotel Stella del Nord: 82€
Rifugio Bonatti: 160€
Camping des Glaciers: 27€
Camping des Rocailles: 35.70€
Camping le Peuty: 0€
Auberge de la Boerne: 16€
La Flégère: 0€
Camping Bellevue: 16€

To sum up, the total cost of the Tour du Mont Blanc for 2 will be 487.7€, plus the food along the way.

Hiker on rocky path with grassy blocks and Mont Blanc beyond. — From La Flegère to PlanPraz

Check our Google Map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

About the authors

We are Alex and Tina, a French-Serbian couple who met in China back in 2014. We spent three incredible years there before making France our home. Our shared passion for travel has been the heartbeat of our relationship for over 12 years, taking us across 44 countries and counting.

We launched TheDailyPackers in 2019 as a way to document our adventures. In 2026, we reached a major milestone by officially turning our blog into our full-time job. While we are still growing toward financial independence through this platform, every article we write is fueled by our mission to make your voyages easier through in-depth guides, honest advice, and the lessons we’ve learned from our own mistakes.

Our journey has not been without its storms. In 2023, our world changed forever when our first son, Poppy, was stillborn on November 25th. It was, and remains, the hardest chapter of our lives. In 2025, we were blessed with our second little boy, Milo. He has since joined our traveling tribe, and you’ll be seeing him—and the reality of traveling with a little one-on the blog more and more.

We hope to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity and resilience. Thank you for being part of our story.