At the heart of the European Alps, the massif of Mont Blanc straddles the borders of France, Italy and Switzerland and includes some of the most spectacular mountain scenery and trekking imaginable. With its rich mountaineering history and unsurpassed cultural diversity, this corner of the Alps has an irresistible attraction for the world's adventurers, climbers and hikers. Mont Blanc itself, at 4807 metres (15,770 feet), is the high point of the range and the biggest peak in Western Europe. This great new walking holiday picks out the best of the daily stages of the Tour du Mont Blanc and links them by short vehicle transfers. During 6 days of trekking, we will get to see all of the highlights of this famous long-distance walk, including all of the best mountain views. Our route will tackle several major pass crossings, such as the Col de Bonhomme, Col de la Seigne and the highest of all, the Fenetre d'Arpette (2670m). And, as a finale, we have also included the superb day-hike to picturesque Lac Blanc, with its panoramic views across the Chamonix Valley to Mont Blanc. For those with limited time, this one-week trekking version of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers superb trekking in 3 countries; France, Italy and Switzerland, as well as a wealth of unforgettable Alpine experiences.
Notes: Prices and itineraries shown for holidays departing in 2013 may be
subject to change, although we will endeavour to keep any price
increases to a minimum. 2013 prices will be confirmed in October 2012.
Day 1: Arrive in Chamonix
Rendezvous at the group chalet in Argentiere (1240m / 4660ft), just above Chamonix. Lying beneath the stunning north face of Mont Blanc, the views are awesome from the start!. Before dinner, you will meet your trip leader to have an informal chat about the days ahead and have the chance to check out your clothing and gear and to decide if you will need to pick up any further items of equipment, before setting out in the morning. KE Land Only package services begin with the evening meal. Overnight at the group chalet in Argentiere. Meals included: Dinner (D)
Day 2: Col de Tricot to Les Contamines
A gentle introduction on this first day. We transfer to Les Houches and from there take a cable car ride to Bellevue, where our trek starts in earnest. A short descent takes us to the start of the Bionassay Glacier with the Aiguille de Bionassay towering above. We cross a fine new suspension bridge, and climb to the Col de Tricot. Ahead lies the the Dome de Miage and below us is the idyllic hamlet of the Chalet de Miage which will take us 45 minutes or so to reach. After a welcome drink at the chalet, a short climb and easy descent leads to the colourful village of Les Contamines. Approximate walking time 5.5 hours. (B,D)
Day 3: Col de Bonhomme to Les Chapieux
A leisurely wander by the river to Notre Dame de la Gorge is our start for today. Leaving the river our route then climbs steeply, following the ‘paved’ Roman road thought to have been a route taken by Hannibal in an early version of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Our next stop is at the refuge at Le Balme, a good place to contemplate the climb to the Col de Bonhomme. This is a long, steady plod and the pass itself often has snow patches early in the season. At 2469 metres (8100 feet), this is considerably higher than the Col de Tricot, but at least the climbing is over for the day, as we traverse round the Croix de Bonhomme before dropping gently down to Les Chapieux. Overnight at the pleasant Aberge la Nova in dormitory accommodation. Approximate walking time: 7 hours. (B,D)
Day 4: Courmayeur via the Col de la Seigne
A short section of road takes us out of Les Chapieux towards the Refuge Le Mottet. From here, we ascend to our next high point, at the Col de la Seigne (2513m / 8245ft). This is a significant col on the border between France and Italy and gives superlative views of the Brenva face of Mont Blanc. An easy descent takes us past the Elizabetta Refuge and down into the head of the Val Veni, under the awesome ridge of the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey. After lunch, a pleasant descent La Visaille where we take the local bus to the vibrant town and mountaineering centre of Courmayeur. Time permitting; we can explore Courmayeur before catching the local bus along the Val Ferret to Arnouva where we check into our hotel. 6 hours. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Col du Grand Ferret to La Fouly
We set off on the long climb to the Col du Grand Ferret (2530m / 8300ft). From this pass, there are views of the snow-capped Grand Combin (4090m / 13,419ft) and also Mont Dolent, the summit of which is shared by France Switzerland and Italy. Beyond the pass, we have entered Switzerland and the terrain is very different, less rugged, as we descend to La Fouly. Here we catch a local bus to our overnight halt in the 'Chocolate Box Village' of Champex. Walking time - 5 hours. (B, D)
Day 6: Cross the Fenetre d’Arpette
Today we have 2 options and the guide will make a decision on the best route for the group. The climb up to the pass known as the Fenêtre d’Arpette (2670m / 8760ft) is one of the most demanding days of the tour (and involves 1180 metres of ascent), but there are compensations. On reaching the rocky col the spectacular view across the Trient Glacier to its seracs and crevasses is quite breathtaking. Alternatively, we can take the beautiful Bovine Trail, through the high meadows where the famous Swiss fighting cows spend the summer months. After a steep ascent to the meadows we hope to stop at the farm for coffee and a chance to chat with the cowherder. We overnight at our chalet in Argentiere. (B, D)
Day 7: Final day-hike to Lac Blanc
Today’s walk is an excellent finale to the Tour du Mont Blanc with spectacular views across to the main Mont Blanc range. We take the path up through the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve to reach the start of a ridge-walk that will lead us upwards to Lac Blanc. En route we often see ibex, chamois, and marmots. It really can be a great chance to get up close to some of the alpine wildlife. At Lac Blanc itself there is an opportunity to visit the refuge and indulge in some home made tart and a coffee! We walk down to the mid-station at La Flegere and descend by cable car to Chamonix, where we have time to look around this fascinating and historic Alpine town, before returning to our chalet in Argentiere. (B, D)
Day 8: Depart Argentiere
The KE Land Only package ends after breakfast. (B)