Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided

Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided

tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided | UCX
tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided | UCX tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided | UCX

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7 Days From

$1358

Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided

7 Days Starting in Chamonix, France and ending in Chamonix Valley, France

Visiting: Chamonix, Trient, Champex, La Fouly, Grand Col Ferret, Courmayeur

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

UCX

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active, Adventure Tours, Walking Hiking and Trekking

Interests:

Cultural

Activities:

Mountain Biking, Trekking

From: $1358

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an exhilarating self-guided trek through the breathtaking alpine scenery of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, as you traverse the stunning landscapes of France, Switzerland, and Italy. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures and culinary delights of the European Alps, including the famous Raclette. Over seven days, you'll journey from Chamonix to Courmayeur, staying in mountain refuges and gîte hostels, with options to upgrade to double rooms. Enjoy the convenience of luggage transfers and detailed route information, allowing you to focus on the awe-inspiring views and the thrill of the trek. Whether you're navigating high mountain paths or exploring charming alpine villages, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for seasoned hikers.

Highlights

  • Trek through stunning alpine scenery around the highest peak in Western Europe

  • Experience the exhilaration of trekking through three countries in the European Alps

  • Enjoying the culinary specialties such as Raclette

  • Walk from Chamonix to the head of the valley and Le Tour

  • Walk to Trient or Col de la Forclaz in Switzerland

  • Walk across the Grand Col Ferret path into Italy

  • Val Veni balcony trail with views of Mont Blanc and tumbling glaciers

Itinerary

tourhub | UTracks | Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided | UCX | Route Map

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Day 1 : Walk From Chamonix To The Head Of The Valley And Le Tour (4Hrs)

Location: Chamonix

Accommodation Name: Le Tour

Meals Included: Dinner

Leaving from Chamonix, there are a couple of options to reach today's destination. You can ascend on the Brevent cable car (not included, allow EUR26 pp) and take the balcony path 2000m above Chamonix town. Alternatively, there is a gentler option following the valley floor. Heading up the valley the trail takes in the huge expanse of the Mont Blanc massif, the Argentiere glacier and the Aiguille du Tour (3542m). It is an exhilarating walk and a fabulous start to the week. Overnight Le Tour.

Day 2 : Walk To Trient Or Col De La Forclaz In Switzerland (6Hrs, +700M, -900M)

Location: Trient

Accommodation Name: Trient

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Leaving from the village of Le Tour you take the scenic high mountain path of Balme heading towards Switzerland. Weather permitting you will be able to take some wonderful photos of the Mont Blanc chain including the impressive “La Verte”, the Drus and the Needles of Chamonix. You will cross the border between France and Switzerland before making your way down to the village of Trient for overnight accommodation.
(9km, +700m/2297ft, -900m/2953ft)

Day 3 : Walk To Champex (5.5Hrs, +900M, -650M)

Location: Champex

Accommodation Name: Champex

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The trail continues through impressive forests with a strong ascent to the high mountain pastures of the Bovine Alps. The route takes you past shepherds huts and small farms always with views of impressive peaks such as Grand Combin to the south and later to the dramatic depths of the Rhone Valley. The Bovine hut is a great place to stop for lunch where you can spot Marmots playing in the slopes nearby. Descend along a forest trail to the pretty town of Champex located by the lake of the same name.
An alternative route is via the “Fenêtre d'Arpette” (2665m), however due to the instability of this trail we do not recommend this route.
(+900m/2953ft, -650m/2132ft)

Day 4 : Walk Through The Valais Des Hommes To La Fouly (4.5Hrs)

Location: La Fouly

Accommodation Name: La Fouly

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today's walk highlights some amazing natural beauty. Dry meadows, pools of fresh water, herds of cows and wonderful chalets surrounded by flower-filled gardens greet you. Swiss village life is all around and whilst the dramatic scenery of previous days is not as apparent, it is a chance to experience the wonderful “Valais des Hommes”. Overnight in La Fouly.
(15km, +500m/1640ft, -600m/1969ft)

Day 5 : Walk Across The Grand Col Ferret Path Into Italy (5-6Hrs, +900M, -500M)

Location: Grand Col Ferret

Accommodation Name: Refuge Elena

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning you walk to the small village of Ferret (1705m). From here the route takes you out of Switzerland and into Italy by the Grand Col Ferret (2537m) pass. It’s a steady climb and at the Col you will be awe-inspired by the sweeping views of the Pre de Bar glacier. After some time drinking in the panorama you can amble down the steep track to your overnight accommodation at the Refuge Elena, which is located at the base of the glacier and a great place to view the changing light on the alps. Alternatively, your accommodation may be a little further into the Val Ferret.
(13km, +900m/2953ft, -500m/1640ft)

Day 6 : To Courmayeur (5 To 6Hrs, +800M, -1600M)

Location: Courmayeur

Accommodation Name: Courmayeur

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning's walk takes you through the Val Ferret and along a balcony path with impressive views of the Grand Jorasses, Mont Blanc and in the distance the Col de la Seigne marking the border between France and Italy. On reaching Refugio Bonatti there are three options to reach Courmayeur. The newly rerouted TMB trail traverses the north flank of Monte de la Saxe, whilst the former official TMB route takes you along the crest of Monte de la Saxe. Both are high trails with fabulous views of the Brenva face of Mont Blanc and the dramatic Aiguille Noire. The alternative route is via the variant route over the Col du Sapin (2436m) with a quick descent to Courmayeur. This latter route is preferable in poor weather (or take a bus from the roadhead at Arnuva). Overnight Courmayeur.
(20km, +800m/2625ft, -1600m/5249ft)

Day 7 : Val Veni Balcony Trail, Return To Chamonix Via Courmayeur, Trip Concludes

Location: Chamonix

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today can be a relaxing amble or a challenging ascent, the choice is yours. Our recommendation is to take the bus up to the Val Veni roadhead and walk back to Courmayeur along the Val Veni Balcony trail. The views of Mont Blanc, tumbling glaciers and endless wildflowers are worth the effort. The route information provided will detail easier and harder options. Once back in Courmayeur, collect your luggage and return to Chamonix by local bus (45 minutes, EUR15) where the trip concludes.
Val Veni balcony trail optional walk: approx 3 hours walking

What's Included

  • Meals

    6 breakfasts and 6 dinners are included. Continental breakfasts usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea, and juices. Dinners will consist of 2 or 3 courses which may include regional specialties.

  • Accommodation

    6 nights accommodation in mountain refuges or gîte hostels on a dormitory share basis. It is possible to upgrade to a double room on 5 out of 6 nights for an additional cost (only possible for 2 people traveling together).

  • Luggage Transfer

    Luggage transfer on days 1-6 (max 15kgs - soft duffel style luggage only).

  • Information Pack

    Information pack including Navigational App and TMB hiking map (1:50,000) per group of 1-4 people. The route is waymarked.

What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from the Tour

    Travel to Chamonix and from Courmayeur is not included.

  • Lunch and Drinks

    Lunch and drinks are not included.

  • Personal Items

    Items of a personal nature are not included.

  • Luggage Storage

    Storage of luggage is not included.

    Please ensure your pre-tour hotel can store luggage before you book.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

  • Public Transport

    Public transport including cable car (optional on day 1) and bus from Courmayeur to Chamonix on day 7 (allow EUR15) is not included.

Accommodation

6 nights in mountain refuges/gîte-hostels. Accommodation is mixed dormitory style in mountain refuges or gîte hostels. There can be up to 40 people in one room in some refuges but less on most nights (around 10-12). Beds are often bunks but can also be one long platform with separate mattresses or one long continuous mattress. Blankets are provided - you need to bring a sleeping sheet. Bathrooms and toilets are shared. Whilst the double room option offers the privacy of your sleeping quarters, often the bathrooms will still be shared. Please note if you elect the double room option you may stay in different accommodation and therefore follow a slightly different route. This should be kept in mind when travelling with friends as you may be split up if you choose different styles of accommodation. The double room option is not available for single travellers. In alpine huts if there is a free bed it will be sold regardless of whether you as an individual have requested a single room. To avoid this likelihood we do not offer a single option in this category. Single travellers should take the dormitory option.

Grading

MODERATE – GRADE 3
The walking is moderate (3) grade with daily walks of around 5-6 hours, between 8 and 20 km and maximum ascents of 900 metres per day. The timing provided in the itinerary is a guide only and is for the walking components only – rest breaks are not included. There are some challenging stages during the walk with steep uphills, descents, and many sections of the trail which require care. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced walkers only. You should also be able to navigate in alpine regions using a map and compass. Whilst the route is very well marked and well trodden, adverse weather conditions may make navigation difficult without reference to a map and compass. Early in the season (June) you may encounter snow on the passes which may be quite deep and alter the grading of the trip to challenging. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds.

Mode of Transport

Travel to Chamonix and from Courmayeur. Public transport including cablecar (optional on day 1) and bus from Courmayeur to Chamonix on day 7 (allow EUR15).

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided tour?

    Accommodation is provided in mountain refuges or gîte hostels, typically in mixed dormitory style. Some refuges can accommodate up to 40 people in one room, but most nights will have around 10-12 people. Beds are often bunks or one long platform with separate mattresses. Blankets are provided, but you need to bring a sleeping sheet. Bathrooms and toilets are shared. There is an option to upgrade to a double room on 5 out of 6 nights for an additional cost, but this is only available for two people traveling together.

  • Are meals included in the Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 6 breakfasts and 6 dinners. Continental breakfasts typically consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea, and juices. Dinners are 2 or 3 courses and may include regional specialties. Drinks are not included.

  • Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfer is provided on days 1-6. The maximum weight allowed is 15kgs, and only soft duffel style luggage is accepted.

  • What kind of navigational support is provided?

    An information pack including a Navigational App and TMB hiking map (1:50,000) is provided per group of 1-4 people. The route is waymarked.

  • What should I bring for sleeping arrangements?

    You need to bring a sleeping sheet as blankets are provided but not sheets.

  • Can single travelers book a double room option?

    No, the double room option is not available for single travelers. Single travelers should take the dormitory option.

  • What are the transportation options to and from the tour locations?

    Travel to Chamonix and from Courmayeur is included. Public transport, including a cable car (optional on day 1) and a bus from Courmayeur to Chamonix on day 7, is also available but not included in the tour price (allow EUR15).

  • What is the difficulty level of the Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided tour?

    The tour is graded as moderate (Grade 3). Daily walks are around 5-6 hours, covering 8 to 20 km with maximum ascents of 900 meters per day. Some stages are challenging with steep uphills, descents, and sections requiring care. A good level of fitness and experience in alpine navigation using a map and compass are required.

  • What should I be prepared for in terms of weather conditions?

    You should be prepared for all weather conditions, including snow, ice, strong sun, and extreme winds. Early in the season (June), you may encounter deep snow on the passes, which can make the trip more challenging.

  • Is there an option to store luggage before the tour starts?

    Yes, but you need to ensure that your pre-tour hotel can store your luggage before you book.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews of this operator

Katharine McLennan (Google Reviewer)  

UTracks is awesome. My...

13-Jun-2024

UTracks is awesome. My Assisi trip was one of the most beautiful trips I have taken in my 56 years. I wanted to walk by myself, and Utracks teamed up with a local Italian travel company to do everything for me—book the hotels and move my bags from hotel to hotel as I walked the track. The app was AMAZING. It showed the daily itinerary, and the interactive map told me metre by metre where I needed to go and whether I was on track or not. It was far more accurate than Google Maps, and I loved all the commentary on what to look for and what not to. The places I stayed were known as "agriturismo places." They are hosted by families on working farms. Those gorgeous families had farms and accommodations that sometimes dated back to 800!!! But all of them had done a fantastic job updating them to be modern, beautiful rooms. I loved how warm the hosts were and how much they appreciated my stay. There were seldom more than 5 people staying each night. The walk was fabulous -- and incredibly well-researched and noted. I was often the only one on the trails, but I always felt safe and looked after by UTracks in their 24-hour cover. I never had to use it - but as a single woman walking on her own through the Italian hills -- it is great to know that people know where I am. The preparation pack sent to me was also incredibly organised with equipment lists, hotel directions-- with all the contacts, and the contacts of the lovely fellow who would be taking my bag from place to place. He was fantastic -- and I also felt supported by him if things were to go wrong. I will definitely be working with Utracks again and can't wait to plan my next adventure.

Addy K (Google Reviewer)  

Great hike to sample some...

04-Oct-2023

Great hike to sample some of the best locations along the Tour Du Mont Blanc. Our guide Sara was great at maintaining pace and knew the route very well. The scenery was amazing especially the tall mountains close to our accomodation. The accomodation provided great 3 course dinners, and we got to sample French, Swiss and Italian food. This is not an easy hike, but as long as you are able to do 1000 mtr elevation gain hikes, this is thoroughly enjoyable.

Patrick Shum (Google Reviewer)  

Hassle free self guided tour...

26-Jul-2023

Hassle free self guided tour around the most scenic Austrian hills and lakes. All our heavy baggage taken care of from hotel to hotel. Hiking not difficult at all, instructions are v clear. I recommend use online GPS map. In case someone want to shorten the walking, various options (bus / boat) provided.

Amanda Liddell (Google Reviewer)  

300km in 12 days from...

15-Jun-2023

300km in 12 days from Porto to Santiago de Compostela where a Cathedral stands as the most beautiful ‘Welcome’ imaginable. The accomodation arranged by UTRACKS was consistently excellent & the ease of only having to worry about carrying your backpack and what you’ll have for lunch is perfect. Yes, most days at breakfast you can make up your own bread roll and filling. Notes and directions were included but once you arrive in Spain you just need to look for the ‘shell’ and ‘yellow arrow’ to find your ‘way’. I am 67 years old & consciously chose to walk alone however I met some fabulous people along the way and finally had hours on end with ‘no headchatter’. There’s healing which catches you unaware & makes every step very worthwhile.

Kerry Andersen (Google Reviewer)  

We used UTracks to organise...

13-Jul-2023

We used UTracks to organise our self guided Portugal Coastal Camino walk. We were very happy with information provided for our walk and accommodation picked.

Ian Freestone (Google Reviewer)  

Recently two trips with utracks....

26-Aug-2024

Recently two trips with utracks. Mont Blanc self-guided and Austrian hike-bike. In summary, the experience is only as good as the local partner. In Austria, Helmut was amazing! Met with us prior - went over every detail of the trip, answered his phone if we had a concern. Mont Blanc, the partner would only communicate by text, did not meet us on arrival, and would not return calls even when we had an emergency. Other concerns we raised with utracks staff were not responded to adequately leaving the feeling that they had our money, job done.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.