Alps Tour du Mont Blanc Express
Circle the Mont Blanc massif through France, Italy, and Switzerland in just eight days, hiking the most scenic sections of the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc route with expert local guides.
Step into a legendary mountain landscape where soaring granite spires, ancient alpine pastures, and glacier-carved valleys stretch across three distinct European countries. Designed for active travelers who want to experience the absolute best of the classic Tour du Mont Blanc without spending two full weeks on the trail, this 8-day express trek packs maximum scenery, invigorating high-mountain hiking, and authentic regional culture into one unforgettable week.
Traversing high mountain passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland, you’ll take in unforgettable vistas of Mont Blanc’s 15,777-foot summit along the circuit’s finest sections of trail. From tumbling icefalls and bell-ringing Swiss cattle to historic alpine chalets, each day of hiking ends in comfortable, hand-picked mountain lodges. This streamlined circuit around Western Europe’s highest peak delivers the quintessential Mont Blanc adventure—balancing ambitious days on the trail with seamless logistics, local flavors, and cozy mountain hospitality.
Trip Highlights
This trip is operated by MT Sobek
George Wendt, Richard Bangs & John Yost
OARS and MT Sobek have shared roots dating to the early 70’s, when the two pioneering companies were working side by side to help shape the modern era of global adventure travel. Today, we are proud to showcase a premier collection of world-class international trekking expeditions guided by our Legacy Partner, MT Sobek.
Why Travel with Mt Sobek
What to Expect
Itinerary & Map
Itinerary at a Glance
We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every Tour du Mont Blanc Express trip is different depending upon the group, other trips in the area, and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your MT Sobek trip might be like:
Day 1
Geneva pick-up and transfer to Chamonix, France
Your Mont Blanc adventure begins in Geneva, Switzerland, where you’ll meet your group and guides at 2:00 p.m. for a private van transfer to the iconic mountain hub of Chamonix, France in the heart of the French Alps. Settle into your hotel, explore Chamonix’s bustling pedestrian streets, and join your trip leader for an evening orientation to go over trail details for the week ahead. Cap off your first night with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodations: Grand Hotel des Alpes, Park Hotel Suisse & Spa, or Chalet Hotel Le Prieure
Meals: Dinner
Transportation: 1.5-hour private vehicle transfer
Day 2
Les Houches to Les Contamines
The first day on the trail begins in nearby Les Houches. The trail ascends through pine forests and past classic timber farmhouses before opening up at the high pass of Bellevue. Here, take in panoramic views of the Chamonix Valley, with the Bionnassay Glacier and Mont Blanc on display. After taking in the summit vistas, descend through forested slopes to the valley floor, arriving at the historic mountain enclave of Les Contamines, home to charming wooden chalets and the 18th century Church of the Holy Trinity.
Accommodation: Hotel La Chemenaz
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: ~7 hours / 10 miles | Elevation gain: 2,500 feet | Elevation loss: 2,800 feet
Day 3
The Roman Road to the Val de Montjoie
Follow a historic road dating back to Roman times as you climb steadily through the Val de Montjoie toward Plan des Dames. The trail continues upward to Col du Bonhomme and Croix du Bonhomme, offering dramatic high-altitude lunch spots surrounded by alpine summits. In the afternoon, navigate grassy downhill singletrack into the remote outpost of Les Chapieux, keeping an eye out for marmots, ibex, and vibrant mountain flora. A brief van transfer delivers you to the village of Bourg-Saint-Maurice for a well-earned dinner and overnight stay.
Hiking: ~7 hours / 12 miles | Elevation gain: 4,200 feet | Elevation loss: 3,000 feet
Accommodation: Hotel Autantic or Base Camp Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation: 35-minute private vehicle transfer
Day 4
Vallée des Glaciers to Courmayeur, Italy
A short morning drive brings you to the head of the Vallée des Glaciers to begin your cross-border trek into Italy. A relatively easy ascent takes you up and over the 8,245-foot Col de la Seigne, where the Italian face of Mont Blanc reveals itself in sheer, vertical grandeur rising nearly 10,000 feet above the valley floor. From here, descend past the turquoise waters of Lac Combal into the Val Veny, where a private transfer whisks you into the lively resort town of Courmayeur. Spend the evening soaking up Italian charm, cobblestone lanes, and regional cuisine.
Hiking: ~6 hours / 10 miles | Elevation gain: 2,300 feet | Elevation loss: 2,700 feet
Accommodation: Hotel Berthod or Hotel Le Massif
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation: 1.25-hour private vehicle transfer
Day 5
Grand Col Ferret to Champex-Lac, Switzerland
After a short transfer, step onto the trail near the massive ice formations of the Glacier de Pré-de-Bar. Towering above stands Mont Dolent—the tri-point summit where the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland intersect. From here, you’ll make a push over 8,300-foot Grand Col Ferret to enter Switzerland, descending into the peaceful Val Ferret toward the tiny village of La Fouly which is situated beneath Glacier de l’A Neuve. Finish the day with a van transfer to Champex-Lac, a scenic Swiss mountain village perched along a pristine alpine lake.
Hiking: ~5–6 hours / 9 miles | Elevation gain: 2,500 feet | Elevation loss: 3,100 feet
Accommodation: Hotel du Glacier, Martigny Boutique Hotel, or Hotel Splendide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation: 1-hour private vehicle transfer
Day 6
The Bovine Route to Col de la Forclaz
Today’s route follows the classic “Bovine Trail,” winding along high pastureland and mountain meadows. After an initial easy stretch, the trail climbs up through evergreen forests and onto a high ridge traverse revealing unobstructed views of the Rhône Valley, the town of Martigny, and the Bernese Alps. Enjoy countryside views before descending to Col de Forclaz. From here, transfer back across the French border to the quiet alpine village of Argentière.
Hiking: ~6 hours / 12 miles | Elevation gain: 2,400 feet | Elevation loss: 2,300 feet
Accommodation: Hôtel de la Couronne or Alpina Eclectic Hotel & Spa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer
Day 7
Grand Balcon Sud to Chamonix
Set out from Col des Montets along the famed Grand Balcon Sud route toward Les Cheserys. This trail offers unmatched perspective across the valley, framing the Le Tour and Argentière glaciers alongside the entire Mont Blanc massif. Traverse the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, passing near the iconic turquoise reflection of Lac Blanc before continuing across the high plateau of La Flégère. From here, take a classic switchback trail down through pine forests into the Chamonix Valley. Celebrate your completed circuit through France, Italy, and Switzerland over a festive farewell dinner in town with your guides and fellow hikers.
Hiking: ~6.5 hours / 10 miles | Elevation gain: 2,700 feet | Elevation loss: 3,600 feet
Accommodation: Grand Hotel des Alpes, Park Hotel Suisse & Spa, or Chalet Hotel Le Prieure
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8
Depart for Geneva
Enjoy a final group breakfast in Chamonix before taking a scheduled private transfer back to Geneva Airport (GVA) to connect with your onward flight or further European travels.
The return transfer arrives at Geneva Airport at approximately 10:00 a.m. Book departing flights any time after 12:00 p.m.
Meals: Breakfast
Meeting Time & Place
Location
Chamonix, France, with scheduled group transfers to and from the Geneva Airport (GVA)
Meeting time
2:00 p.m.
Return
Any time after 12:00 p.m. on Day 8
Trip Map
Dates & Prices
| 2027 Departures | Price |
|---|---|
| June 6, 13, 27 | $8,895 |
| July 4, 11, 18, 25 | $8,895 |
| August 1, 15 | $8,895 |
| September 5, 12 | $8,895 |
*Per person based on double occupancy.
Deposit
• $600 per person
Additional Costs
• Travel Insurance (recommended)
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
• $1300
The Need-to-Know Info
Trip Details
Included in Your Trip Cost
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Pre- and post-trip accommodations
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for guides and guide-drivers
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
- Personal expenses
Is This Trip Right for You?
The Tour du Mont Blanc Express is a challenging point-to-point trek, featuring six back-to-back days of hiking through rugged mountain terrain designed for active hikers. You will cover 8 to 12 miles per day over 6 to 8 hours of continuous movement, with zero scheduled rest days.
Elevation & Trail Demands
- Significant Elevation: Prepare for sustained climbs up to 4,200 feet in a single day and long downhill descents dropping up to 3,000 feet.
- Technical Terrain: This is not a technical climbing trip but trail conditions vary from established dirt tracks to steep, rocky, muddy, or scree-covered paths with moderate exposure. Most of the trails are wide enough to get some distance between you and any drop offs and scenic overlooks, but if you have a severe sensitivity to heights you may find a few sections challenging. Many hikers have also expressed that the trails around Mont Blanc are more technical than those found in the U.S. So, we strongly recommend adequate training, the use of hiking poles and sturdy, mid-height boots.
- Group Pacing: Guides manage group pacing with regular breaks to ensure everyone stays comfortable, and on schedule together.
Because the group changes mountain hotels every night, skipping a day on the trail is difficult and cannot be guaranteed. Transfers with our luggage driver are subject to strict driving schedules and are reserved for safety or medical needs rather than leisure.
Arriving with a high level of physical fitness is essential to enjoying this action-packed week.
Do I need prior hiking experience?
Yes, prior hiking experience is required. Guests should be prepared for long, steep hikes with significant elevation gain and loss.
You’ll stay in a mix of alpine hotels chosen for location and comfort. Some properties are rustic, especially in smaller villages, while Chamonix and Courmayeur offer more elevated options. Rooms and bathrooms can be small, and amenities may be basic, but locations are ideal for the route. Over the course of many decades operating in this area, MT Sobek has carefully curated these properties to maximize the quality of your experience, balancing comfort, trail access, and transfer times.
Please keep in mind these accommodations may be subject to change depending on your date of travel:
Grand Hotel des Alpes
In the shadow of Mont Blanc in the heart of Chamonix, the Grand Hotel des Alpes is centrally located, just minutes from the lake, the lift to the Aiguille du Midi, and the old town. The traditional blue shuttered building, built in 1840 and beautifully renovated, offers 30 handsome rooms with extensive amenities including concierge service and afternoon tea.
Park Hotel Suisse & Spa
Enjoy upscale comforts and warm hospitality at the Park Hotel Suisse & Spa, perfectly located in the heart of Chamonix. In addition to well-appointed rooms, guests are treated to a spa area located on the hotel’s roof top. This comes with a steam room, two saunas, a Jacuzzi and heated outdoor swimming pool, plus a panoramic terrace.
Chalet Hotel Le Prieure
Experience classic Alpine hospitality at this chalet-style hotel with spectacular views of Mont Blanc. Sit back with a drink by the wood fire in the lobby and savor a wide range of breakfast delights as you contemplate Chamonix’s stunning mountain peaks. Relax in modern wood-paneled rooms and unwind in style with access to a hammam, Jacuzzi, outdoor sauna, herbal tearoom, and a terrace overlooking Mont Blanc. Just a short walk to downtown and the Aiguille du Midi cable car!
Hotel La Chemenaz
Situated right at the start of the hiking trails, this classic family-owned chalet hotel offers luxurious accommodations in a magnificent setting facing the Mont Blanc Massif. A variety of rooms, suites and family accommodations feature “chalet chic” decor, with faux fur textiles and warm wood finishes.
Hotel Autantic
Welcome to the picturesque Hotel Autantic, a 3-star establishment located in a peaceful part of the village. Its stone and wood exterior exudes a warm and inviting feel, and its period furnishings create a Savoyard ambience. Enjoy the comfort of well-appointed rooms as well as a swimming pool and sauna.
Base Camp Lodge
Boasting sweeping views of the Vanoise National Park mountains, this modern hotel comes with warmly decorated guestrooms, each having flat-screen TVs, en suite facilities and Wi-Fi. There’s an industrial-chic restaurant, a bar and a terrace.
Hotel Berthod
Built in 1882 by Jean Laurent Berthod, more than a century later the hotel remains family owned and operated. There is a familial atmosphere here, with cozy, personalized rooms and service designed to make guests feel right at home. Indoor spa facilities await hikers eager to relax after a vigorous day of activity.
Hotel Le Massif
At the foot of Mont Blanc and the heart of Courmayeur this mountain resort welcomes you with Italian hospitality. Cozy rooms blend Italian design with Alpine architecture—walls softened with wood panels and sleek marble bathrooms. Similarly, you’ll find a blend of Aosta Valley tradition and global innovation in the restaurant. The elegant spa offers a wide range of experiences from indoor and outdoor whirlpool baths to a Turkish bath and outdoor sauna.
Hotel du Glacier
Serving guests for over 100 years, the cozy Hotel du Glacier is a Swiss hotel tradition. Rooms are basic but spacious and comfortable, and many have views of the picturesque mountain lake. After a day of hiking, enjoy the sunny terrace or gardens.
Martigny Boutique Hotel
Artfully designed, the Martigny Boutique Hotel is a warm, creative retreat where airy rooms showcase prints from a renowned Swiss arts foundation. Savor a rotating weekly menu of Valais’s freshest ingredients, inspired by Alpine and Andean flavors. Part of a meaningful project that provides employment to people with disabilities, the hotel pairs purpose with style. Unwind in the wine bar with standout Valais vintages and distinctive in-house NectART wines.
Hotel Splendide
This historic hotel opened its doors to guests for the first time in 1938. Passed down through four generations, the property exudes historic character combined with a modern take on Belle Epoque style. Overlooking the Grand-Combin massif which peaks at 14,150 feet, the hotel provides a tranquil retreat for guests hiking the Mont Blanc trail. Many of the stylish and comfortable rooms have balconies and views of the mountains.
Hotel de la Couronne
Located just 5 minutes from the departure tracks for hikers, this classic turn-of-the-century hotel, one of the oldest in the valley, occupies a quaint Alpine-style building. It offers simple, lodge-style rooms, many with mountain views, a traditional approach to hospitality and a warm welcome. Recently renovated in 2023, La Couronne will now boast a spa with a sauna and hammam as well.
Alpina Eclectic Hotel & Spa
The unique Alpina Eclectic Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of Chamonix with stunning views of the Mont Blanc. Each room is individually decorated with updated mountain style to evoke a warm and inviting atmosphere and equipped with all you need for your stay. Guests can recharge at the spa or indulge in a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant with panoramic views of the Mont Blanc range.Add text or additional blocks here.
One of the joys of hiking through France, Italy, and Switzerland is how much the food reflects where you are each day. You can expect hearty, mountain-friendly meals built around fresh regional ingredients—think cheeses, cured meats, rustic breads, pasta dishes, sausages, and warming soups and stews in the countryside. There will also be plenty of opportunities to enjoy local favorites like French pastries, Italian gelato, and Swiss chocolate along the way.
Breakfasts are served at the hotels and are typically buffet-style, featuring items such as fresh breads, butter and jam, cereals, yogurt, cheese, fruit, and hot drinks including coffee and tea. These breakfasts are meant to be filling and flexible, allowing you to fuel up according to your appetite and the day’s hike.
Lunches are picnic-style and include a variety of sandwich fixings, salads, cheeses, fruit, and snacks. Snacks are also offered at the beginning of the day, so you can have them handy in your pack along the trail.
Dinners are served later than is common in the U.S., close to 7:00 p.m. local time or sometimes later. Usually enjoyed at the hotel or a nearby local restaurant, dinners are often three courses, starting with soup or salad, followed by a main dish and dessert. Expect meals that are rich and comforting, generally featuring pasta, potatoes, polenta, or other high-energy staples, paired with meats such as chicken or beef, or vegetarian alternatives. Fresh baked bread is a consistent accompaniment, and desserts often reflect local traditions.
Dietary Restrictions
MT Sobek can accommodate many common dietary restrictions on this trip with advance notice. Let them know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible.
Because this is a point-to-point hiking trip through small mountain villages, kitchens and ingredient availability can be limited. While restaurants along the route have become increasingly experienced with common dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, options may be more limited than at home.
Weather in the Alps varies significantly by elevation, valley, and day, with conditions that can change quickly. You should be prepared for classic mountain weather, which can include sun, wind, rain, and cooler temperatures all within the same day. MT Sobek trips depart from June through September to take advantage of the most reliable window for mountain services and accessible trails.
June (Early Season): Trails feel fresh and green with average temperatures ranging from 51-64°F. This is typically the peak season for alpine wildflowers.
July & August (Peak Summer): These are the warmest months, with averages between 56-70°F, though afternoon storms remain a possibility in the high mountains.
September (Early Autumn): Conditions are cooler and crisper, with averages around 51° to 63°F, offering quieter trails and a hint of fall color at higher elevations.
The temperature ranges above are typical of the valley towns where our days start and end. As you hike, expect temperatures to drop around 3.6°F for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. This means that even if it is a warm 70°F in the valley, it can be significantly colder and windier as you reach high-altitude passes like the Grand Col Ferret.
Dressing in layers is essential. The days can change from hot to cold and wet. Snow is even possible in the high passes. Come prepared for everything.
| Chamonix | Champex | Geneva | |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 64° / 53°F | 58° / 47°F | 74° / 53°F |
| July | 70° / 58°F | 65° / 52°F | 79° / 57°F |
| August | 69° / 58°F | 63° / 52°F | 78° / 56°F |
| September | 63° / 53°F | 57° / 47°F | 70° / 50°F |
Do I need a passport or visa for this trip?
A valid passport is required to enter Switzerland, France, and Italy. Most countries require that passports be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Non-U.S. citizens should consult their local embassy or consulate to confirm current entry requirements.
What is the group size?
The typical group size for this MT Sobek trip is between 5 and 16 guests, creating an experience that feels personal, relaxed, and thoughtfully paced.
What is the guide-to-guest ratio?
This trip is staffed with one guide for up to eight guests, plus a dedicated driver. An additional guide will be added for larger groups.
Do you recommend travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations.
This trip is operated by MT Sobek and is subject to their terms & conditions.
| Deposits & Payments | |
|---|---|
| At time of reservation | $600 |
| 95 days prior to trip departure | Balance |
| Cancellations & Refunds | |
|---|---|
| From time of reservation until 95 days prior to trip departure | $300* |
| 94 to 61 days prior to trip departure | 25% of Trip Cost |
| 60 to 46 days prior to trip departure | 50% of Trip Cost |
| 45 days or less prior to trip departure | 100% of Trip Cost |
*Rather than paying the $300 cancellation fee, you may choose to keep your $600 trip deposit on account to use on a future MT Sobek trip when cancelled 125 days or more before departure. Deposits on account must be used within two years.
Transfers
You may transfer one time to another trip without a fee up to 125 days before departure. Requests to transfer from one trip to another within 124 days of departure are subject to the Cancellation Fees outlined above (based on the date you notify us of your wish to transfer). No transfers are allowed on custom or private Departures.
Cancelled Trips
MT Sobek reserves the right to cancel any trip due to inadequate enrollment or other cause that makes the trip unfeasible for us to operate, but will inform you at least 45 days prior to departure. In such a case, a full travel credit toward a future trip or refund of Trip Cost is given, except in those instances such as force majeure or epidemics where prepaid deposits or irrevocable commitments cannot be returned or reversed. In any event, MT Sobek will provide alternative travel dates for a postponed trip. If a refund is sought, only recoverable funds will be provided. MT Sobek is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by members preparing for the trip (e.g. non-refundable Advance Purchase air tickets, visa fees if applicable, clothing, equipment, or medical expenses). Do not purchase your air tickets before speaking with your Adventure Coordinator.
If a trip is cancelled or postponed due to force majeure (war, labor strikes, earthquakes, flooding, epidemic, a major world event adversely affecting international travel patterns, etc.), MT Sobek will provide a travel credit or refund the portion of the trip cost that is recoverable after using good faith efforts to recover payments already advanced to suppliers (hotels, transportation companies, etc.) We will refund the balance as promptly as possible. However, MT Sobek does not guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made, and our use of good faith efforts to recover these payments will not include the institution of any legal proceedings. MT Sobek is not responsible for expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for a cancelled or postponed trip (e.g., non-refundable purchase of air tickets, visa fees, inoculations, equipment, etc.) or for any additional arrangements should the trip member depart prior to the scheduled group departure date.
The Tour du Mont Blanc Express trip is run by OARS Legacy Partner MT Sobek.
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