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Holidays

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc

France, Italy, Switzerland
18 reviews
View Dates & Prices
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

The complete classic walk around Mont Blanc, staying in hotels and with full baggage support

Trip Code: TMH
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc

Highlights
  • Complete the full route around Mont Blanc and tick off a bucket list adventure
  • Experience world-class trekking as you walk through France, Italy and Switzerland
  • Enjoy the breath-taking scenery of the Alps and their unique mountain culture
  • Excellent IML guide, and all baggage transfers are included
At a Glance
  • Group Size 6 to 12
  • 10 days trekking
  • Max altitude - 2670 metres
  • Join In Chamonix
Accommodation & Meals
  • 11 Breakfasts
  • 7 Dinners
  • 7 nights Hotel
  • 3 nights Guesthouse
  • 1 nights Mountain Hut / Refuge
Overview

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic walking holiday adventure around Mont Blanc in the heart of the Alps of Europe from Chamonix, France trekking through Italy and Switzerland. Starting out in the Chamonix Valley, this superlative walking holiday makes a complete circumnavigation of Mont Blanc and its satellite Alpine peaks. Walking firstly into Italy and then Switzerland, the trekking route follows picturesque valley trails and ascends via wonderful mountain paths.

Our walking route also climbs to a succession of scenic and challenging Alpine passes, including the high point of the circuit at the rocky Fenetre d'Arpette (2670m). Lower level highlights include the vibrant Italian Alpine resort of Courmayeur and the charming Swiss village of Champex. As an excellent final day addition to this classic walking holiday around Mont Blanc we include the trek to the summit of the Brevent (2525m) for unmatched views of Chamonix, the Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc itself. We use a good standard of hotel accommodation throughout and our vehicle back-up means that group members need carry only a small daysack. Suitable for regular hill walkers looking for an Alpine trekking adventure around Mont Blanc, this holiday provides an excellent introduction to long-distance trail walking in the Alps of Europe.

 

Is this holiday for you?

This is a classic Alpine walking route on good trails. The average distance covered each day is around 17 kilometres and there is a fair amount of ascent and descent. However, the pace of the walking is steady and regular hill walkers will find this trek to be well within their capabilities. Additionally, vehicle transport for your KE trek bag, means that you need to carry no m …

This is a classic Alpine walking route on good trails. The average distance covered each day is around 17 kilometres and there is a fair amount of ascent and descent. However, the pace of the walking is steady and regular hill walkers will find this trek to be well within their capabilities. Additionally, vehicle transport for your KE trek bag, means that you need to carry no more than a small daysack. There will be vehicle support everyday to carry the group members trek bags to the next overnight stop (note, this service cannot be used for passengers).

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Why KE?

Complete the tour with our experienced guides, who live, breathe and love the Alps. Relax in hotel and chalet accommodation and walk worry-free with all baggage transfers included.

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Itinerary

Download Trip Notes

Meet at the group chalet in the Chamonix Valley (1240m). Lying beneath the stunning north face of Mont Blanc, the views are awesome from the start!. KE Land Only package services begin with the overnight.

Accommodation

Hotel
Hide Details

Our leader will meet us for breakfast and an informal chat about the week ahead. Floowing this we have a a very gentle introduction on this first day, with 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. Crossing the torrent via a fine new suspension bridge, we climb easily to the Col de Tricot. Ahead lies the bulk of the Dome de Miage and below us is the idyllic summer hamlet of the Chalet de Miage which will take us 45 minutes or so to reach. After a welcome drink at the Chalet de Miage, a relatively short climb and easy descent takes us to the colourful village and winter ski resort of Les Contamines.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B D

Ascent

800 M

Descent

1450 M

Time

7 - 8 hours walking

Distance

16 KM
Hide Details

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, this is considerably higher than the Col de Tricot, but at least the climbing is over for the day, as we traverse around via the Croix de Bonhomme, before dropping gently down to Les Chapieux.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B D

Ascent

1350 M

Descent

850 M

Time

8 - 9 hours walking

Distance

18 KM
Hide Details

A level trail takes us out of Les Chapieux towards the refuge Le Mottet, which doubles as a donkey and mule sanctuary. Many of these animals earn their keep by transporting baggage to our next high point, at the Col de la Seigne (2513m). 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, we catch a bus down to the vibrant town and mountaineering centre of Courmayeur. We stay tonight in a hotel at La Palud above the town.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B

Ascent

800 M

Descent

950 M

Time

7 hours walking

Distance

21 KM
Hide Details

Leaving La Palud, we climb towards the Monte de la Saxe Ridge. This is a spectacular grass ridge which provides fantastic views of the Italian side of Mont Blanc and the Grandes Jorasses. We pass above the Bertone Hut and at this point there are options depending on the weather. We can drop down to La Vachey and walk up the road from there. Or, we can cross another col, Col des Deux Sauts, passing the Bonatti Refuge and contouring around to Arnouva. From here, we will take the bus back to La Palud, to spend a second night in the hotel above Courmayeur.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B

Ascent

1500 M

Descent

1200 M

Time

9 hours walking

Distance

21 KM
Hide Details

We start the day with a bus transfer to Arnuva to its head and we then climb up to the Elena Refuge - an excellent place to stop for morning coffee. After this pleasant interlude, we set off on the long climb to the Col du Grand Ferret (2530m). From this pass, there are views of the snow-capped Grand Combin (4090m) 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.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B D

Ascent

920 M

Descent

1100 M

Time

7 - 8 hours walking

Distance

16 KM
Hide Details

A relatively easy day, which starts off with a gentle downhill walk through woodland and a number of typically Swiss villages. There is a final 45 minute climb to the famously scenic 'Chocolate Box' village of Champex. Arriving early, we have the chance to sample the delights of its local hostelries.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

730 M

Time

5 - 6 hours walking

Distance

17 KM
Hide Details

Today we take the beautiful Bovine Trail, through the high meadows where the famous Swiss fighting cows spend the summer months. On this route after a steep ascent to the meadows, we might even have the opportunity to stop at a farm for coffee and a chat with the cowherder. This is a very pleasant walk providing spectacular views of the upper Rhone Valley and tops out at around 2040 metres. We then descend all the way to Trient.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B D

Ascent

760 M

Descent

710 M

Time

6 - 7 hours walking

Distance

13 KM
Hide Details

We begin a climb up through fine woodland to reach the Col de Balme. Our route to the pass can be varied to take account of the prevailing weather conditions. The preferred route, via Les Grands, allows us to linger over views of the Trient Glacier. On reaching the Col de Balme, we cross the border back into France where below us lies the Chamonix Valley, dominated by the Aiguille Verte at one end and Mont Blanc at the other. We descend from the Col de Balme to Chamonix, and to our accomodation.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B D

Ascent

1200 M

Descent

1450 M

Time

8 - 9 hours walking

Distance

18 KM
Hide Details

From Chamonix our path meanders up to the Col des Montets before heading off towards the cliffs of Le Chesery, where our route takes a seemingly impossible line, helped on the more difficult sections by cables and ladders. This is very easy and not something to be worried about! Leaving the cliffs behind, easier ground takes us to Lac Blanc where we take lunch. This is arguably one of the Chamonix Valley’s best viewpoints. We descend to La Flegere and use the valley transport system for the short journey back to our accommodation in the Chamonix Valley (1240m).

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B

Ascent

1000 M

Descent

550 M

Time

6 hours walking

Distance

9 KM
Hide Details

Today we complete our Tour du Mont Blanc. Returning to the end point of the previous day's walk, we use the lift system to get back up to La Flegere and, from there, continue to climb on a superb trail to the Col du Brevent and on to the Brevent summit. The views across the Chamonix Valley to Mont Blanc are excellent and the walking is delightful. Finally, we descend via Merlet to Les Houches and transfer back to our accomodation. We will be sure to have a final celebratory dinner to mark the end of our classic circuit.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B D

Ascent

930 M

Descent

1800 M

Time

7 - 8 hours walking

Distance

17 KM
Hide Details

KE Land Only package services end after breakfast.

Meals

B
Hide Details
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Airport Airport
Direction Direction
Trek

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional English-speaking guide
  • All transfers and cable cars involved in the itinerary
  • All accommodation as described
  • Meals as detailed in the Meal Plan
  • Services of a support vehicle for baggage transfers

  • Travel Insurance
  • Meals as detailed in the Meal Plan
  • Visa fees (if applicable)
  • Airport transfers
  • Miscellaneous expenses

TRAVEL TO YOUR DESTINATION

In some cases you may choose to take a ferry and/or train to your holiday start and end destination. Please see further information on Travelling by Train.

If flying from the UK there are low cost airlines available to the start and from the end of your holiday.

To benefit from full financial protection, ease your holiday planning, and avoid dealing with airlines, we can book scheduled flights from the UK as part of a flight inclusive package. Scheduled flights are usually more expensive than low cost alternatives, however potentially less stressful if your flight is cancelled or delayed. If you book flights through KE Adventure Travel we will offset the carbon of your flight.

The group will rendezvous at the hotel in the Chamonix Valley on the evening of day 1 of the trip itinerary.

Arriving by air:
Fly to Geneva Airport and make use of an airport transfer service. We recommend Mountaindropoffs (mountaindropoffs.com/en).

Arriving by rail:
Train tickets can be booked from London through to Chamonix (with two changes) with trainline.com.

Arriving by road:
If you are driving to Chamonix we will provide route details and directions to the group hotel in the Chamonix Valley.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals are included except for lunches and dinner on day 1 and day 4. Lunches can be easily purchased from supermarkets, bakeries or your accommodation along the way.
We do recommend you bring a few additional trail bars and snacks with you (not chocolate as it can melt) - these can of course also be purchased along the way, but it is sometimes nice to have your favourite hill food with you.

Water from the taps is perfectly drinkable on this holiday - please use this to fill your personal bottles for your daily activities. We do not encourage the purchase of single-use plastic bottles.

As might be expected, the food available in restaurants and hotels in France and Switzerland is excellent. Continental breakfasts and evening meals are provided by our accommodation. Lunch and additional snacks can be purchased from the huts or supermarkets when in the valley.

During this holiday, the groups start and finish the trek at a hotel in the Chamonix Valley. On the rest of the Tour de Mont Blanc the group will spend a total of 7 nights in comfortable hotels, chalets or gites with all bedding provided. On the route of the 'Tour du Mont Blanc' accommodation is comfortable and charming but often quite simple. Where we can, we will book twin rooms. Occasionally it will be same sex triple or quad rooms, which may be with shared bathrooms. Single rooms are not available.
On one night accommodation may be in a non-segregated dormitory if this is all that is available. This type of shared accommodation is all part of the Alpine mountain experience.

The group will be led by an experienced mountain leader. There will also be a support vehicle for baggage transfer.

This holiday involves going to moderately high altitude. During the course of your trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 2500 metres. Most people will have no difficulty with this level of altitude but before coming on the holiday, we recommend you read the advice on trekking at altitude on our website which can be viewed via the link below. You can also talk to one of our trekking experts if you have any concerns about altitude. www.keadventure.com/page/altitude.html

The package price includes all accommodation, guiding, and all meals except lunches. You should also make an allowance for additional snacks, drinks etc. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available every night. Approximately 300 Euros should adequately cover typical personal spending requirements. Please note that a part of the route is in Switzerland but Euros are accepted in most places we stay, although Euros will generally be accepted you may not get a favourable exchange rate.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage (maximum weight on arrival at the group hotel is dependent on your international flight restrictions) and a daypack (of around 30 - 40 litres). 

Our baggage transfer company who transport your main bag from guesthouse to guesthouse throughout the trek have requested that everyone uses a duffle type bag. They will not take hard suitcases. Please note that there is a strict weight limit of 15kgs maximum for bags to be transferred and no fresh produce should be left in these bags.

You can of course travel to the group hotel with any type of baggage, and store it at our group accommodation with any items you do not need on trek and pick these up when you return.

Your main bag will be transferred between overnight stops and you should have this ready for collection by 8.00 each morning. The bag will normally be delivered to your hotel by 17.30.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

Europe

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)

  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For the latest details on visiting countries within the EU or the European Economic Area (EEA), please check the UK Government website

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations.

GHIC / Medical cover

UK residents should carry a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This entitles you to state provided medical treatment when you're visiting an EU country or Switzerland. This is not a substitute for medical travel insurance which is vital when travelling overseas.

The currency for part or all of this holiday is the Euro.

The unit of currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc.

It makes a lot of sense to spend some time before coming on a trekking or climbing trip getting some additional exercise. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. We would suggest that you adopt a weekly exercise regime leading up to your trip. Jogging, squash and swimming are good for developing better stamina. Before departure, we suggest that you try to fit in a number of long walks in hilly country.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Tour of Mont Blanc. Trekking Guide. Kev Reynolds

  • Walking Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc. Andrew Harper

  • Tour du Mont Blanc Topo Guide. Publisher: Fdration Franaise de la Randonne

IGN (Institut Geographique National) 1:50,000 scale.

The IGN also produce a 1:25,000 series covering the route but these are not very practical as you would require several sheets. The 1:50,000 ‘Carte de Randonees’ series of walking maps provides a detailed topographic map with a useful contour interval of 20m. This is still a good scale for following the route on the ground and means you only need one map: Pays Du Mont-Blanc - Aravis - Chamonix - Courmayeur A1

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.

You must bring the following items:

  • Hiking boots

  • Socks

  • Underwear

  • Hiking trousers

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Waterproof overtrousers

  • Thermal baselayer shirts (1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens

  • Thermal gloves

  • Sunhat

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Daypack 30 – 40 litres should be sufficient

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Head torch and spare batteries

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment.

The following items are optional:

  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)

  • Gaiters

  • Shorts

  • Thermal baselayer - legging

  • T-shirts and/or casual shirts

  • Spare laces

  • Insect repellant

  • Camera

  • Travel clothes

  • Travel shoes

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Note

We request that you keep the weight of your main baggage to less than 15kgs for the baggage transfers.

Many of the equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive a 12.5% discount with Cotswold Outdoor, Snow+Rock and Runners Need. The discount code can be downloaded from your MyKE account and you can use this code at the checkout, either in store or online.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 from 18 reviews

Magnificent views! ★★★★

Another well organised tour by KE! The views did not disappoint as we traverse through France, Italy and Switzerland - you notice the changing landscapes as we cross the borders. The accommodation and food were excellent, particularly the home cooked meals at the Yeti Lodge where we had the pleasure of staying for 3 nights at Argentiere. Although there were 2 nights where we had to stay in dorms, the rooms were clean and equipped with all the facilities. Our guide Damien did an amazing job havin g to manage 12 people with varied fitness levels. This is a physically challenging hike with significant ascents and descents, so be prepared! I gave the walk a four star because I feel KE could've done better at the screening process, it was a bit disappointing having to walk a rather slow pace due to the varied fitness level in the group.
By Jenny from HURSTVILLE | 21 September 2022

Stunning scenery ★★★★★

This is an amazing 10 days trip walking through France, Italy and Switzerland, around Mount Blanc. The scenery is breathtaking but you do need to be fit, as you have some very hard days with plenty of ascent and descent, I was part of a great group, but a few of the group found it harder than they had expected. Our guide Damien was very knowledgeable and patient with a good sense of humour. The food and hotels where all good but you may have a few nights sharing in mixed sex dormitories, dependi ng on hotel availability, however, we did know this before we began. Some tips……take walking poles and learn to walk with them beforehand if you have not used them before and plenty of snacks. However, we were able to buy provisions for lunch most days and the hotels did offer packed lunches, the bakery in Argentiere has to be visited !! We were really lucky with the weather and had 10 dry, warm days which really helped as a couple of the days were really long with some hard ascent, involving ladders. I highly recommend this holiday and I had a great 10 days but be prepared and make sure your fit enough. Now deciding what trip,to,book next !!!!!
By Rosemary from Banbury | 20 September 2022

Challenging 10 day Journey! ★★★★★

Excellent journey around Mont Blanc. It was interesting to watch how the scenery changed as we made our way around. I thought that the itinerary worked very well with the best views at the end of trip.. The hotels were generally good and mainly on the route which meant little transport at the beginning or end of day. We spent the first and last 3 nights at the Yeti Lodge in Argentiere which I thought worked really well. The dinners there were really good with loads of vegetables. The other meals were a mix of hotel and a few nights out which was also good. Our guide Damien was also very good. Had done the loop several times this season and was excellent company. We were extremely fortunate with the weather, no rain for 10 days (Sept). Some chilly mornings but generally good walking weather. The "Is this holiday for you?" section says 'The average distance covered each day is around 17 kilometres and there is a fair amount of ascent and descent. However, the pace of the walking is steady and regular hill walkers will find this trek to be well within their capabilities'. This is all true but keep in mind the holiday averages about 1,000m of ascent a day so the 10 days are challenging so be ready. The paths were generally good but some are rockier than others.
By William from Banbury | 19 September 2022

Our guide Sophie was amazing. She is so knowledgeable and experienced. ★★★★★

Sophie shared her love for the mountains, the wildflowers and the geology. She took the time to ensure every individual had a positive experience. She guided me in negotiating difficult terrain and challenging water and snow crossings. Without her help and encouragement I could not have completed the trip. I will be forever grateful to her. Although the food was delicious, most of us would have appreciated more fresh salads and vegetables.

By Julia from Corvallis | 22 July 2019

The holiday of a lifetime! ★★★★★

I loved every minute of this holiday and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moderately challenging adventure. The route was spectacular and the variety of terrain and scenery made it difficult to choose a favorite day--they were all glorious (even the very rainy one!). The pacing made each day very achievable. Our leader was incredibly professional and knowledgeable and set a great tone for the trip. After 12 days together, I was very sad to say goodbye to the members in the group . It could not have been a better experience. I will definitely be booking my next trip with KE Adventures! Thank you!!
By Joanne from Tiburon | 07 August 2017
Read More Reviews Leave a Review
Traveller Reviews
4.8 out of 5 from 21 reviews
Leave a Review
Magnificent views!
★ ★ ★ ★
Another well organised tour by KE! The views did not disappoint as we traverse through France, Italy and Switzerland - you notice the changing landscapes as we cross the borders. The accommodation and food were excellent, particularly the home cooked meals at the Yeti Lodge where we had the pleasure of staying for 3 nights at Argentiere. Although there were 2 nights where we had to stay in dorms, the rooms were clean and equipped with all the facilities. Our guide Damien did an amazing job havin g to manage 12 people with varied fitness levels. This is a physically challenging hike with significant ascents and descents, so be prepared! I gave the walk a four star because I feel KE could've done better at the screening process, it was a bit disappointing having to walk a rather slow pace due to the varied fitness level in the group.
By Jenny from HURSTVILLE | 21 September 2022
Stunning scenery
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This is an amazing 10 days trip walking through France, Italy and Switzerland, around Mount Blanc. The scenery is breathtaking but you do need to be fit, as you have some very hard days with plenty of ascent and descent, I was part of a great group, but a few of the group found it harder than they had expected. Our guide Damien was very knowledgeable and patient with a good sense of humour. The food and hotels where all good but you may have a few nights sharing in mixed sex dormitories, dependi ng on hotel availability, however, we did know this before we began. Some tips……take walking poles and learn to walk with them beforehand if you have not used them before and plenty of snacks. However, we were able to buy provisions for lunch most days and the hotels did offer packed lunches, the bakery in Argentiere has to be visited !! We were really lucky with the weather and had 10 dry, warm days which really helped as a couple of the days were really long with some hard ascent, involving ladders. I highly recommend this holiday and I had a great 10 days but be prepared and make sure your fit enough. Now deciding what trip,to,book next !!!!!
By Rosemary from Banbury | 20 September 2022
Challenging 10 day Journey!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent journey around Mont Blanc. It was interesting to watch how the scenery changed as we made our way around. I thought that the itinerary worked very well with the best views at the end of trip.. The hotels were generally good and mainly on the route which meant little transport at the beginning or end of day. We spent the first and last 3 nights at the Yeti Lodge in Argentiere which I thought worked really well. The dinners there were really good with loads of vegetables. The other meals were a mix of hotel and a few nights out which was also good. Our guide Damien was also very good. Had done the loop several times this season and was excellent company. We were extremely fortunate with the weather, no rain for 10 days (Sept). Some chilly mornings but generally good walking weather. The "Is this holiday for you?" section says 'The average distance covered each day is around 17 kilometres and there is a fair amount of ascent and descent. However, the pace of the walking is steady and regular hill walkers will find this trek to be well within their capabilities'. This is all true but keep in mind the holiday averages about 1,000m of ascent a day so the 10 days are challenging so be ready. The paths were generally good but some are rockier than others.
By William from Banbury | 19 September 2022
Our guide Sophie was amazing. She is so knowledgeable and experienced.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Sophie shared her love for the mountains, the wildflowers and the geology. She took the time to ensure every individual had a positive experience. She guided me in negotiating difficult terrain and challenging water and snow crossings. Without her help and encouragement I could not have completed the trip. I will be forever grateful to her. Although the food was delicious, most of us would have appreciated more fresh salads and vegetables.

By Julia from Corvallis | 22 July 2019
The holiday of a lifetime!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I loved every minute of this holiday and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moderately challenging adventure. The route was spectacular and the variety of terrain and scenery made it difficult to choose a favorite day--they were all glorious (even the very rainy one!). The pacing made each day very achievable. Our leader was incredibly professional and knowledgeable and set a great tone for the trip. After 12 days together, I was very sad to say goodbye to the members in the group . It could not have been a better experience. I will definitely be booking my next trip with KE Adventures! Thank you!!
By Joanne from Tiburon | 07 August 2017
Fantastic time
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Fantastic time on the walk. Beautiful scenery, great group, nice comfortable hotels and good food. A super way to spend time in the alps!

By Amelia from London | 07 August 2017
A bucket list active adventure holiday
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This classic tour exceeded our expectations - the scenery was beautiful and our group of 7 got along really well. We were fortunate in having great weather for most of the trip; not sure how pleasant this would have been with lots of rain and cold. The description and notes for each days' hike were accurate so we were prepared for the ascents and descents and the difficult terrain. Our guide Sophie was very knowledgeable and took good care of us. Our only complaint is not getting the marita l bedroom with en-suite bath when it was available at several of the lodges (the other couple got it every time!)
By Diane from CHANDLER | 23 October 2016
Excellent Walking Tour
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Excellent walking tour with very good food/accommodation in all the hotels used. The guide had a very wide experience of working in the Alps and was a fund of knowledge on the geology, plant and animal life (he trained as a student at an agricultural college) and history of climbing in the areas we were walking in.

By Brian from Aberdeen | 14 October 2016
A great trip with some stunning scenery...
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We were fortunate to have good weather for almost all of the trip. Our French guide Sophie was really excellent with her encyclopaedic knowledge of the area and its flora and fauna. All the accommodation was good with great food especially in the French hotels and the Yeti lodge. Thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see some of the best scenery in Europe (if not the world).

By Mark from STAFFORD | 01 October 2016
a pleasant walking holiday
★ ★ ★ ★
I had great time for this adventure holiday. Trip guide Gary is very nice & knowledgeable.Our whole trip mates of seven got along very well & had lots of laughs together.
There are some improvement can be done. The hotel "Auberge du Mont-Blanc" on 8/27 was not pleasant. Small & almost nothing in the room other than beds. Multiple shared shower & bathroom was very inconvenient. Dining table space was jam packed & you couldn't even open your arms to eat. Hope the lunch sandwich has more variety other than ham & cheese except tuna sandwich was offered on the first day only.
Otherwise,it's a very nice trip to remember. I enjoyed it very much.
By Chyong-Hwa from San Diego | 16 September 2016
Phenomenal Experience
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

What a fantastic trip! We were SO lucky to have Gary Daines as our guide plus a wonderful group of fellow trekkers - 50% of the pleasure came from the camaraderie of our group and the other 50% from the incredible personal physical challenge, scenery and other folks we met along the way. Certainly a trip of a lifetime for me. Thank you SO much KE!

By Sharon from Surrey | 09 September 2016
We did it!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The mountain heights seemed intimidating but the hikes - looking back the way we walked - were nothing but amazing! The places we stayed in were good, the meals and baggage were taking care of. We just needed our day pack, lunch, water and took lots of pictures. Our guide, Gary, was attentive, gauging our physical condition and gave us water breaks or rests. Everyday, he went over the routes we were to take and approximate time the group would take to get there. He didn't mind repeat answet ing our questions on where would be the next point on the route. I really enjoyed the experience and the group from three different countries became very good friends.
By Lucia from Vancouver | 07 September 2016
A great walking holiday, thoroughly recommended
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
TMB is a challenging but not impossibly difficult route for the reasonably fit regular hill walker. Every day was refreshingly different, the scenery breathtaking. Apart from one dull damp day and an hour or so of light rain on the final afternoon, we were blessed with perfect weather, sunny and warm in the valleys, sunny and cool in the mountains. We were very fortunate to have Sophie, always thoughtful of everybody's individual needs, as our guide; as a seasoned hiker and climber, she had so much knowledge of the area which she happily shared with us. Altogether an unforgettable experience.
By David from Woking | 27 August 2016
Classic walk
★ ★ ★ ★

This was a great holiday and challenge with fantastic food and accomodation. As a single traveller I did not realise I would be in a room with 2 others. The triple rooms used in 2 or 3 of the places were far too small and caused significant problems for us. KE should not use triple rooms or at least warn people if they are going to and then give the option of canceling as it is not acceptable to be crammed in in this way.

By Adventure from BELPER | 22 August 2016

KE Adventure reply

Thank you for your review and we are glad you had a great holiday with fantastic food and accommodation. The choice of hotels and room configuration is quite limited in some places if we are to avoid transfers away from the walking route, which in our opinion would greatly detract from the concept of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Occasionally we may have to use some same sex triple rooms, although we always try to accommodate couples in twin rooms. For future reference, you can find the accommodation details for each trip on the 'Holiday Information' tab of our website.

The Classic Tour Du Mont Blanc - a great walk, one should not miss!!!

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By Sreedevan from Dublin | 10 August 2016
Classic Tour Du Mont Blanc - August 2015

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By Ernest from HEREFORD | 06 November 2015
The hardest most rewarding 11 day hike I've done so far,
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Pictures cannot do it justice, You just have to experience it for yourself. The trek itself was a lot harder than I expected but very rewarding. The views were breathtaking. The lodging and food were excellent. My favorite was the YETI lodge and staff

By Jillian from MENLO PARK | 26 October 2015
Classic Tour Du Mont Blanc - August 2015

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By Ernest from HEREFORD | 06 October 2015
An incredibly beautiful, enjoyable and challenging hiking experience!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This hiking trip was wonderful! It was a good challenge with stunning scenery everyday. The trails were remarkable and our guide, Jonny, was helpful, knowledgeable, fun and flexible. He was an excellent guide. The accommodations and food were well organized and I was satisfied with both. It was a pleasure to focus on the hiking, scenery and the conversations as KE took care of everything else. This was a perfect vacation for me and I would recommend the Classic Tour de Mont Blanc and KE Adventur es to anyone!! I am hoping to try other KE adventures:).
By Margaret from LACOMBE | 14 September 2015
Brilliant scenery & benefited from good weather, a classic trek.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

An excellent holiday in which you trek most of the sections of the 'Tour'. For the pedantic some sections are travelled by bus or cable car although with a little planning and a flexible & accommodating leader this minor dissappointment can be overcome e.g you can go back & walk the route from Les Houches to Col de Voza to finish with! Overall a trip thoroughly recommended with the proviso mentioned.

By Ernest from HEREFORD | 14 September 2015
Amazing walking holiday, with fantastic views, food and guide
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This was an amazing trip - we had great weather, although 2 days slightly overcast. Our guide, Jonny, was awesome, he really knew his stuff, and made the experience better by giving us alternatives and add ons. The views were amazing.

By Mary from IPSWICH | 07 September 2015
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