{"id":44036,"date":"2019-02-21T09:00:30","date_gmt":"2019-02-21T17:00:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=44036"},"modified":"2024-02-29T09:36:36","modified_gmt":"2024-02-29T17:36:36","slug":"how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/travel\/how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc","title":{"rendered":"How to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"cb-itemprop\" itemprop=\"reviewBody\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Tour Du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the most famous long-distance treks in the world\u2014and for good reason. Every year, thousands of people complete the 105-mile-long trek, which has an impressive accumulated elevation gain and loss of around 32,800 feet. The TMB circumnavigates Mont Blanc, a glaciated massif that commands attention whether you\u2019re climbing on it, hiking around it or gazing at it from the streets of Chamonix. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At 15,777 feet, Mont Blanc is the tallest peak in Western Europe and is ranked 11th in the world in topographic prominence. The whole Massif Du Mont Blanc extends for about 25 miles and has 11 summits. The TMB will give you spectacular views of them from every angle.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many ways to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc\u2014you can make it shorter, faster, luxurious or rugged. But for the sake of brevity, this guide will focus on the classic 105-mile section and will cover:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#why-hike\">Why Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#itinerary\">How to Choose Your Itinerary<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#top-destinations\">Top Destinations Along the Tour du Mont Blanc<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#highlights\">Highlights Along the Tour du Mont Blanc<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to\">How to Prepare<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_44045\" style=\"width: 910px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44045\" class=\"wp-image-44045 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_072413_0062_001_001-e1550601184512.jpg?resize=900%2C600\" alt=\"A group of hikers head for a hut after a long day on the TMB. \" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-44045\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A group of hikers\u00a0 head for shelter after a long day hiking the Tour Du Mont Blanc.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not only does the TMB circle around the birthplace of modern mountaineering, it traverses three entirely different countries. So, get ready to go from saying \u201cBonjour!\u201d to \u201cBuongiorno!\u201d as you navigate your way through France, Italy and Switzerland, climb up at least six mountain passes, and top out on high points like the Col des Fours in France, and the Fen\u00eatre d&#8217;Arpette in Switzerland.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to Garin Carpenter, an REI Co-op staffer and an avid hiker who did a 13-day Tour du Mont Blanc trip last summer, \u201cYou really feel like you\u2019re in each place. You\u2019re in France and you can feel it, then you\u2019re in Italy and it\u2019s amazing, then Switzerland knocks your socks off. When you hike the TMB you will have all these micro-experiences in each country that make the trek unforgettable.\u201d<\/span><br \/><a name=\"why-hike\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Tour du Mont Blanc is bursting with epic alpine scenery\u2014glaciers, mountains, rivers, lakes, meadows and wildlife. In addition to the physical demands of the trip, the TMB also doubles as a living, breathing history lesson. You\u2019ll see churches still intact from the 18<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">th<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> century and walk the same paths that Roman soldiers used 2,000 years ago.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And should your feet grow weary (which they will), the TMB has an extensive hut system (huts every 6-10 miles) stocked with food, water and many other creature comforts. Seventeen towns\u2014and many smaller villages\u2014dot the route, so there are many options for vehicle support and finding a warm bed to sleep in at night. Plus, you can take on the circumnavigation of the Mont Blanc massif supported or unsupported, as so desired.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_44047\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44047\" class=\"wp-image-44047 size-article_body\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/smaller.jpg?resize=1024%2C682\" alt=\"A trail marker offers alternative route directions on the Tour du Mont Blanc.\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-44047\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A trail marker offers alternative route directions on the Tour du Mont Blanc.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But perhaps what makes the TMB most appealing is the cultural smorgasbord you\u2019ll experience as you go from country to country along the way. Instead of using roads, you cross borders via alpine passes\u2014and with each country comes a whole new ambiance. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you hike the TMB, you get to enjoy croissants in France, espresso in Italy and cheese in Switzerland. It\u2019s true: You can easily travel to those places <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">without<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> walking from country to country, but what would be the fun in that?<\/span><br \/><a name=\"itinerary\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Choose Your Itinerary<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Tour du Mont Blanc can be completed in as little as three days (if you&#8217;re going for speed) or 13-plus days, depending on how many miles you want to cover per day. During the hike you can stay in mountain huts, tents, hotels\u2014or a mixture of all of the above. As a whole, the route can be traversed clockwise or counter-clockwise. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To add to the complexity, there are many different starting points available, including Courmayeur, Les Houches, Chamonix, Les Contamines, Saint Gervais, Les Chapieux, Orsi\u00e8res (Champex, La Fouly) and Trient. The traditional route starts in Les Houches, a 10-minute bus ride from Chamonix, and goes counter-clockwise, leaving the Col de la Forclaz-to-Argentiere portion for the end, which is often regarded as the route\u2019s grand finale. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s possible to undertake the TMB solo, but many travelers choose to go with a guided group. The plethora of itinerary options and inter-country challenges associated with hiking the TMB mandate a lot of complex logistical planning, especially with the potential language barriers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carpenter really appreciated how having guides maximized his enjoyment. \u201cGoing guided allowed me to really lose myself in the scenery and culture while not having to think about logistics,\u201d he said. \u201cThe guides were like historians and the service was incredible. By the time we got to our lodging, our duffels were already in our rooms and they just handed us keys.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, while there\u2019s no right way to do the TMB, just be sure to grab your favorite blister protection\u2014and don\u2019t forget the trekking poles!<\/span><br \/><a name=\"top-destinations\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Top Destinations Along the Tour du Mont Blanc<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The TMB is a multi-country adventure with a plethora of alpine scenery, charming villages and mountain serenity along the way. It can be a lot to take in, so here are some of the top destinations you\u2019re likely to stop at during your circumnavigation of the Mont Blanc massif.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>France<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>Chamonix<br \/><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Elevation:<\/strong> 3,402 feet<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Best for:<\/strong> Year-round adventure<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Road Access:<\/strong> One hour from Geneva airport (50 miles)\u2014bus, shuttle, train available<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internationally known as a skiing and mountaineering hot spot, Chamonix is also one of the top stops along the Tour du Mont Blanc (for many, it\u2019s where the adventure begins). Like Whistler, British Columbia and Jackson, Wyoming, Chamonix is a year-round destination for outdoor adventure. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the winter, skiers and snowboarders enjoy Chamonix Valley\u2019s 10 different ski resorts. Additionally, backcountry skiers, riders and mountaineers use the lifts to access the bigger peaks and alpine zones deeper in the French Alps.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the snow melts, Chamonix is world-renowned for hiking, biking and rock climbing. It\u2019s also famous for trail running, too, and hosts the popular 106-mile <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/montblanc.utmb.world\/races\/UTMB\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> trail race every year. Paragliding, hang gliding, base jumping and other extreme sports are also popular in Chamonix, and on clear days the sky is often dotted with the colorful parachutes of happy pilots on an afternoon flight. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Les Contamines<br \/><\/b><strong><i>Elevation: <\/i><\/strong><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3,819 feet<br \/><\/span><\/i><strong><i>Best for: <\/i><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A hike and a tennis match<br \/><\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Road Access:<\/strong> From Geneva\u2014bus, shuttle, train or car (48 miles) <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">December through April, the small village of Les Contamines<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-Montjoie<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a bustling ski town. It also boasts opportunities for cross-country skiing, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tobogganing, ice climbing and dog-sled rides. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the summertime, folks of all ages and interests can enjoy the 100-acre Patrice Dominguez Park, the largest leisure park in the Mont-Blanc region, where they can swim, play tennis or mini golf, go horseback riding, pedal <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">boats, climb or practice archery. <\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_44052\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44052\" class=\"wp-image-44052 size-article_body\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_071913_0153.jpg?resize=1024%2C682\" alt=\"A cow lounges amongst the alpine in front of an old stone structure.\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-44052\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hearing the sound of cowbells singing throughout the alpine is a common experience on the TMB.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For less structured playtime, explore the nearby 13,590-acre <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lescontamines.com\/winter\/decouvrir-english\/the-resort\/the-nature-reserve\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Les Contamines Nature Reserve<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the highest-elevation nature reserve in France and the only protected area in the Mont-Blanc Range. \u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over the years, Les Contamines has kept true to its traditional roots\u2014its farms, chalets and alpine heritage are preserved by the town\u2019s 1,200 residents. To this day there are Swiss-style farmhouses and baroque churches, like the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">church of Notre-Dame de la Gorge<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which was rebuilt in 1699 and still serves as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">place of prayer for travelers hiking the Col du Bonhomme mountain pass.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For art lovers, Les Contamines is home to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Samivel\u2019s Garden, an outdoor museum that showcases the work of the famous <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">watercolorist, Samivel. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Les Chapieux<br \/><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Elevation:<\/strong> 5,085 feet<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Best for:<\/strong> Unplugging<br \/><\/span><\/i><strong><i>Road Access:<\/i><\/strong> <i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is a daily shuttle service between Les Contamines and Les Chapieux during the summer<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surrounded by mountains, Les Chapieux is a small hamlet that comes alive in the spring and summer. The roads to Les Chapieux aren\u2019t plowed in winter, but come spring, the village transforms from a few dormant, snow-covered structures to a basecamp for backcountry skiers, and in summer a popular rest and resupply stop for TMB trekkers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Les Chapieux has a few small shops, a tourism office with a campground and two inns. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/refugelanova.com\/?lang=en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Auberges de la Nova<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which opened in the late 19th century, is more like a hostel with basic amenities. Right down the road from the Nova is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.leschambresdusoleil-montblanc.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chambres Du Soleil<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which over its 150-year lifespan has provided refuge to those from all walks of life, including<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> soldiers, skiers, hunters and hikers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Italy<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>Courmayeur<br \/><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Elevation:<\/strong> 4,016 feet<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Best for:<\/strong> Skiing, heli-skiing, spa days, high-end shopping<br \/><\/span><\/i><strong><i>Road Access: <\/i><\/strong><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turin, Milan and Geneva airports are all options. Find the best one for you and schedule an airport transfer<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in northwest Italy, Courmayeur is the halfway point on the Tour Du Mont Blanc (if you\u2019re hiking the normal circuit) and is a popular spot for a rest day. The town center is car-free and paved with cobblestone. Here you can find everything from high-end Italian brands, like <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Balenciaga, Fendi, Lanvin, Balmain and Prada, to l<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ittle local boutiques with many family-owned restaurants in between. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If shopping is not your priority, check out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/montebianco.com\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skyway Monte Bianco<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> cable car<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which travels 6,500 vertical feet to the Punta Helbronner station<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rotating 360 degrees along the way. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Or check out the Duca degli Abruzzi Alpine Museum which chronicles the history of the region\u2019s mountain guides and their epic expeditions. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And whether you\u2019re hiking the TMB, or just in Courmayeur for a visit, make the trek to the Rifugio Walter Bonatti, a hut named after one of Italy\u2019s most revered alpinists. Chat with other hikers and enjoy a home-cooked <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">traditional Italian meal with a glass of wine straight from the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/place\/Valle-dAosta\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valle d\u2019Aosta<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Switzerland<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>Champex-Lac<br \/><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Elevation:<\/strong> 4,921 feet<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Best for:<\/strong> Fishing, swimming, playing in the sun by the lake<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Road Access:<\/strong> Trains run from Geneva to Martigny; then take a bus or taxi to Champex-Lac<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Switzerland is divided into 26 cantons, or states, and Champex Lac is nestled in the largest of these, the Canton of Valais, known for its delicious food and for having some of the best wine in Switzerland. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Situated on the shore of an alpine lake, the small village offers hotels and a few small shops and convenience stores. There is a ski hill in Champex with 15.5 miles of downhill trails, but Champex-Lac truly comes alive in the summertime. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rent a boat and angle for trout, take an ice-cold plunge or simply walk around the lake.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Just 12 <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">miles away, in the larger town of Martigny, visit a world-famous art center, Musee de La Fondation Pierre Gianadda, plus an old Ro<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">man amphitheater and more.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_44048\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44048\" class=\"wp-image-44048 size-article_body\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/svizzera.jpg?resize=1024%2C682\" alt=\"A small building bearing the Swiss flag sits below soaring peaks and rock walls. \" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-44048\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">An idyllic alpine setting greets hikers amidst the stunning peaks and pleasant valleys of Switzerland.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><b>La Fouly<br \/><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Elevation:<\/strong> 5,250<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Best for:<\/strong> Cheese and peak-bagging<br \/><\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Road Access:<\/strong> Once in Martigny,<\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> take the Martigny-Orsi\u00e8res train, changing at Sembrancher. In Orsi\u00e8res, take the bus to La Fouly\/Val Ferret<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like many of the alpine villages listed so far, La Fouly has a ski area, a few places to stay, and a small number of cafes and shops. The village sits at the base of famous mountains like Tour Noir, Aguille <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">d\u2019Argenti\u00e8re and Dolent, a 12,533-foot monolith that dominates the skyline. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In La Fouly, four alpine pastures still produce cheese in a traditional Swiss manner, so trying raclette or fondue in this town is highly recommended (or maybe just buy a few blocks for the trail). <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eat at the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Auberge des Glaciers or Caf\u00e9-Restaurant du Dolen, where the owners make sure to buy ingredients primarily from local producers just a few miles away.<\/span><br \/><a name=\"highlights\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highlights Along the Tour du Mont Blanc<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>1. Cable car to the Aiguille du Midi<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the top of the Aiguille du Midi (12,680&#8242;) there are views of the entire Mont Blanc range. On a clear day, you can also see the Matterhorn, Monta Rosa and the Grand Combin. Order an espresso and take it all in from a balcony perched on a mountaintop with exposure in every direction.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>2. Chamonix <\/b><b>pub\/cafe culture<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For baked goods, try the Patisserie Richard. It\u2019s local and you\u2019re likely to find that the croissants are hot out of the oven. Book dinner well in advance at La Flamb\u00e9e and feast on some seriously tasty French cuisine. Try the tartiflette, a dish made with bacon, potatoes and melted cheese, followed by the \u201cgorgeous chocolate cake.\u201d Les Caves is a cool little underground (literally) bar and nightclub with really gracious owners and a delicious dinner menu.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_44051\" style=\"width: 960px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44051\" class=\"wp-image-44051 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_071513_0304-e1550602337735.jpg?resize=950%2C633\" alt=\"The resort town of Chamonix.\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-44051\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The resort town of Chamonix and the nearby village of Les Houches are popular start\/end points for TMB hikers.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.chamonix.com\/montenvers-mer-de-glace,81,en.html\"><b>3. Cogwheel Train<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ride the 100-year-old cogwheel Montenvers Train up to the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice), one of the largest glaciers in the Alps.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The glacier was only accessible by foot or mule before the Montenvers Train was built in 1908. The funicular train crawls slowly up for 3,280 feet to the station, where there is a gondola and restaurant. Check out the 330-foot-long ice cave (be warned, there are 440 steps from the bottom of the gondola to reach the ice cave) and follow it up with a negroni at the Panoramic restaurant.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>4. Col de la Seigne<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upon reaching the Col de la Seigne (8,250 feet), you\u2019ll be standing on the border of France and Italy with views of both countries sprawled out before you. The sweeping and spectacular <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vall\u00e9e Blanche on the French side and the Val Veni and the Grand Col Ferret on the Italian side are vistas not to be missed.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Col de la Seigne is located in between Champieux, France and Courmayeur, Italy and can be reached going either direction on the TMB. Rifugio Elisabetta is nearby (about 3 miles) for those who wish to stay overnight. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>5. Beaufort Cheese Dairy and Aging Cellar<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will not regret getting a tour of this cheese sanctuary in France. \u201cWe visited a French cheese-maker who makes this really regionally exclusive French cheese,\u201d says Carpenter. \u201cThe milk comes from the most beautiful cows you\u2019ve ever seen. You watch the cheese-maker at work, then go down into the basement of the barn and get hit with an amazing stench. The smell of over 100 years of cheese curing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>6. Refugio Bonatti<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do it for the patio! This Italian refugio is located on the south side of the Val Ferret. \u201cYou are having a cold beer in the sun and you put your boots in a boot room and they give you wool clog slippers,\u201d says Carpenter. \u201cThen if you stick around until the nighttime, you can see the headlamps of the alpinists across the valley on these granite faces.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>7. Cowbells<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll hear the clanking of cowbells as you make your way through the various meadows and forests of the trek. While that sounds like it could be annoying, it\u2019s not. According to one hiker I talked to, the cowbells were one of his favorite parts. And the only souvenir he bought in Europe was an old, hand-pounded bell from an old bell-maker in Chamonix because the calming sound brings him right back to the TMB whenever he rings it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>8. Swiss Raclette<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Raclette gets its own section here. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Raclette is a luxurious cheese, usually melted and served over potatoes, tiny pickles and dried meat.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u201cWe had the most epic raclette session I have ever had in my entire life,\u201d says Carpenter. \u201cThey bring out these baskets of steamed potatoes and veggies and charcuterie straight from heaven. You make your plate then head over to a table where the Swiss raclette master has half a cheese wheel under this melting light and right when it starts to get brown and bubbly they scrape it all onto the top of your plate. You\u2019re in Switzerland where this cheese comes from, and you are doing it the way it\u2019s supposed to be done. Those are the kinds of experiences I\u2019ll never forget.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201d<\/span><br \/><a name=\"how-to\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Prepare for the Tour du Mont Blanc<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The TMB is a serious hike and most people shouldn&#8217;t attempt it off-the-couch. It takes proper preparation. You must be physically fit and equipped with the right gear and clothing. Whether you\u2019re trekking with or without a guide, it\u2019s also a good idea to have first-aid certification, or better yet, a wilderness first-responder certification. Yes, there are many towns along the way and lots of people on the trail, but it\u2019s always good to know how to read a map and have some wilderness medicine experience before taking on this famous trek. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best Time to Go<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best time of year to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is from mid-June to early September. Late June is the more beautiful and quiet time of year but you may have some snow leftover up high to deal with. July and August are the peak months because of the weather. The trail will be less busy in September, but the weather is less reliable.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Huts, Hotels or Both?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can sleep and eat in the mountain huts, carry a tent or stay in one of the many hotels along the TMB. The beauty of staying in huts and hotels lies in your lighter-weight pack\u2014you won\u2019t need to carry a tent and cooking supplies. Plus, adding a few nights in town provides opportunities to do laundry, see the sights and eat some amazing food.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_44050\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44050\" class=\"wp-image-44050 size-article_body\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_072013_0524_002.jpg?resize=1024%2C682\" alt=\"An REI Adventures guide briefs her group about the days' route. \" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-44050\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A trip guide\u00a0briefs the group about the day&#8217;s route.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The mountain huts are generally open from mid-June until the first or second week in September. Make sure to reserve a bed well in advance if you are going during the peak season.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What to Bring? <\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supportive, good-quality <a href=\"\/c\/hiking-boots\">hiking boots<\/a> or shoes that you feel comfortable hiking in for many miles a day over steep, rocky terrain.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Waterproof <a href=\"\/c\/hiking-jackets\">jacket<\/a> and <a href=\"\/c\/hiking-pants\">pants<\/a>, plus a good selection of <a href=\"\/c\/base-layers\">layers<\/a> including a <a href=\"\/c\/hiking-clothing-accessories\">hat<\/a> and <a href=\"\/c\/liner-gloves\">gloves<\/a>. The weather can shift from sunny and hot to snowy in a matter of minutes\u2014even in the summer.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"\/c\/day-packs\">Day pack<\/a> or <a href=\"\/c\/backpacking-packs\">multiday pack<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"\/c\/hiking-shirts\">Short- and long-sleeve base layers<\/a>, a fleece mid layer, <a href=\"\/c\/hiking-pants\">hiking pants and shorts<\/a>, <a href=\"\/s\/travel-underwear\">underwear<\/a>, a <a href=\"\/s\/windproof-jackets\">lightweight windproof jacket<\/a>, and a warm <a href=\"\/s\/puffy-jackets\">puffy jacket<\/a>. Plus <a href=\"\/c\/sunglasses\">sunglasses<\/a>, <a href=\"\/c\/sun-protection\">sunscreen<\/a> and some euros!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Train<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s safe to say that you\u2019ll probably be sore no matter how you prepare for the TMB. There\u2019s no way around 100 miles and your knees will be feeling it by the end. That said, get in shape. If you\u2019re going to do something this epic, you\u2019re going to want to be energized and taking everything in instead of looking at your toes and grunting your way through Europe. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to train? You guessed it: hike! For at least six weeks to three months before your trip, get out on the steepest local trails (or long stairways) you can find, two to three times a week, wearing a progressively heavier pack. Work up to a 30-mile week, then take a week off before you leave. Some strength training in the gym (low reps, heavy weight) and yoga on top couldn\u2019t hurt.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Useful Phrases<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn some French and Italian. Although many Europeans speak English, it\u2019s not their first language, so communicating food allergies or preferences can be difficult. Plus, the locals generally appreciate it when you try.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>French<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hello: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bonjour<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Goodbye: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Au revoir<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thanks: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Merci<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much?: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Combien?<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I have\u2026 : <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puis-je avoir\u2026<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you speak English?: \u00a0<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parlez-vous anglais?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><b>Italian<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hello: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ciao<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Goodbye: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Addio or ciao<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thanks: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Grazie<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much?: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quanto?<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I have\u2026 : <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Posso avere\u2026<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you speak English?: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lei parla inglese?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><b>Swiss <\/b><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian and <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rumantsch (1%). Below are a few German phrases to learn.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hello: Hallo<br \/><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Goodbye: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Auf wiedersehen<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thanks: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Danke<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much?: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wie viel?<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I have\u2026. : <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Darf ich haben&#8230;<br \/><\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you speak English? : <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sprichst du Englisch?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Tour Du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the most famous long-distance treks in the world\u2014and for good reason. Every year, thousands of people complete the 105-mile-long trek, which has an impressive accumulated elevation gain and loss of around 32,800 feet. The TMB circumnavigates Mont Blanc, a glaciated massif that commands attention whether you\u2019re [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":44038,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[388],"tags":[270,251,707,1550,255,991,12],"internal-tag":[],"class_list":["post-44036","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel","tag-europe","tag-france","tag-hiking","tag-international","tag-italy","tag-switzerland","tag-travel"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/travel\/how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"How to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/travel\/how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/travel\/how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_072513_0206-e1550600405559.jpg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_072513_0206-e1550600405559.jpg?fit=2800%2C1243"},"articleSection":"Travel","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Beckindale"}],"creator":["Beckindale"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["europe","france","hiking","international","italy","switzerland","travel"],"dateCreated":"2019-02-21T17:00:30Z","datePublished":"2019-02-21T17:00:30Z","dateModified":"2024-02-29T17:36:36Z"},"rendered":"<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"wp-parsely-metadata\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"headline\":\"How to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc\",\"url\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/travel\\\/how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/travel\\\/how-to-hike-the-tour-du-mont-blanc\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2019\\\/02\\\/Parrish_072513_0206-e1550600405559.jpg?resize=150%2C150\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2019\\\/02\\\/Parrish_072513_0206-e1550600405559.jpg?fit=2800%2C1243\"},\"articleSection\":\"Travel\",\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Beckindale\"}],\"creator\":[\"Beckindale\"],\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Uncommon Path \\u2013 An REI Co-op Publication\",\"logo\":\"\"},\"keywords\":[\"europe\",\"france\",\"hiking\",\"international\",\"italy\",\"switzerland\",\"travel\"],\"dateCreated\":\"2019-02-21T17:00:30Z\",\"datePublished\":\"2019-02-21T17:00:30Z\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-02-29T17:36:36Z\"}<\/script>","tracker_url":"https:\/\/cdn.parsely.com\/keys\/rei.com\/p.js"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2019\/02\/Parrish_072513_0206-e1550600405559.jpg?fit=2800%2C1243","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44036","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=44036"}],"version-history":[{"count":24,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44036\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":195809,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44036\/revisions\/195809"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/44038"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=44036"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=44036"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=44036"},{"taxonomy":"internal-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/internal-tag?post=44036"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}