A three country, three culture circuit of Europe's highest peak, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a coveted goal of hikers worldwide. Dramatic alpine scenery vies with the fascination of visiting towns in France, Italy and Switzerland during this ten day tour encompassing Europe's most spectacular mountains and the challenge of a number of high, remote passes. Completing the entire circuit in eight hiking days, we take advantage of a number of little known variations.

Based out of a mix of charming country inns, first class, old world hotels and simple hiker's hostelries, we visit Chamonix, Contamines, Courmayeur, Champex, Trient, and Argentiere. The unique combination of good accommodations and spectacular hiking makes this tour a wonderful reward for the physically fit.



ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrive Geneva. Transfer to Chamonix. Dinner with guides. Overnight in a grand old world hotel.

Day 2 We enjoy a moderate introductory hike to Contamines with views over the peaks and glaciers of Chamonix. Overnight in a charming country inn.

Day 3 We pass the pilgrimage site, Notre Dame de la Gorge, ascend an ancient Roman road to La Balme, then ascend more steeply to the refuge at the Col du Bonhommme.

Day 4 Today we cross two passes, the Col des Fours and the Col de la Seigne, with staggering views of glaciated peaks of the Italian side of Mont Blanc. A long descent leads to Courmayeur. Overnight in an elegant old world hotel with haute cuisine and a large selection of regional wines.

Day 5 We are treated to ever-improving views of the the Brenva face of Mont Blanc, its most impressive and imposing aspect on our remote, rarely traveled variation. We overnight in a pleasant new refuge in the Italian Val Ferret.

Day 6 We ascend to the Grand Col Ferret, the Swiss border, with stunning views of the Grand Combin. We descend through pristine meadows to the Swiss Val Ferret. Bus transport takes us to the idyllic lakeside town of Champex and our charming, chalet style inn.

Day 7 The Fenetre d'Arpette offers the steepest hiking of the tour and a fabulous outing. Our picnic here above the beautiful Glacier du Trient is truly unforgettable. We descend to the tiny hamlet of Trient and a simple inn.

Day 8 From Trient we hike via the Col des Posettes, a pleasant variant of the TMB and finish in Argentiere. Overnight in a comfortable French country inn.

Day 9 Our hike along the Grand Balcon Sud offers spectacular views of Mt. Blanc and the Aiguilles, or needles, of Chamonix. Return to our old world hotel for a splendid final dinner.

Day 10 Depart.

Learn more about the French/Swiss/Italian Alps/Mont Blanc Region.