Mont Blanc Rambler Self Guided Hike

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 hike and a fabulous start to the week. Overnight Le Tour. Distance 13.3km/8.2mi, +870m/1476ft, -450m/1476ft

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. Distance 12km/7.5mi, +1050m/3445ft, -980m/3512ft

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. Distance 15.5km/9.5mi, +945m/3100ft, -900m/2952ft An alternative route is via the “Fenêtre d'Arpette” (2665m), however due to the instability of this trail we do not recommend this route.

Today's hike 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. Distance 15.4km/9.5mi, +750m/2460ft, -620m/2034ft

This morning you hike 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. Distance 11.5km/7mi, Ascent: 980m/3215ft, Descent: 500m/1460ft

This morning's hike 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. Distance 17km/10.5mi, Ascent: 631m/2070ft, Descent: 1500m/4921ft

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, approx EUR15) or continue on your way into Italy. Val Veni balcony trail optional walk: Distance 15km/9.3mi, Ascent: 1280m/4200ft, Descent: 812m/2664ft