Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Route Guide Through France, Italy, and Switzerland

Planning the Tour du Mont Blanc: The Perfect Itinerary

There is a reason the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is whispered about in hushed, reverent tones in the hiking community. It isn't just a trail; it’s a high-altitude pilgrimage that circumnavigates the crown jewel of the Alps, crossing through the rugged peaks of France, the dramatic spires of Italy, and the pastoral meadows of Switzerland. Stretching 170 kilometers (105 miles) with over 10,000 meters of cumulative ascent (roughly the equivalent of climbing Everest from sea level) this trek is a masterclass in alpine beauty.

Whether you’re dreaming of the sunrise reflecting off the Massif du Mont Blanc, the taste of authentic Italian polenta at a remote rifugio, or the melodic clank of Swiss cowbells in the Val Ferret, the TMB offers something for everyone. However, with over 200,000 people visiting annually, a successful journey requires more than just a pair of boots; it demands careful upfront planning.

Planning the Tour du Mont Blanc: A Sample Itinerary

To help you navigate this "bucket list" adventure, this guide provides a detailed, day-by-day breakdown of the classic counter-clockwise route. From the traditional starting line in Les Houches to the final panoramic descent into the Chamonix Valley, we’ve mapped out every pass, valley, and mountain hut to ensure you don’t miss a single highlight.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: always do your own research and consult the latest information locally or online for the latest routes, accommodations and tips. 

 

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The 10-Day TMB Itinerary: Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines-Montjoie

The journey begins in the charming village of Les Houches, just a short bus or train ride from Chamonix. Passing under the iconic wooden archway that marks the official start of the TMB, you’ll immediately begin the first major ascent toward the Col de Voza.

For those looking to save their legs on day one, the Bellevue Cable Car provides a popular shortcut, whisking you up to 1,800 meters and offering immediate, staggering views of the Bionnassay Glacier. From here, you have two primary options:

• The Standard Route: A steady descent through lush forests and alpine hamlets like Bionnassay, offering a gentler introduction to the trail.
• The "Col de Tricot" Variant: A more strenuous but breathtaking alternative. This route takes you across a thrilling Himalayan-style suspension bridge over the glacial torrent before a steep climb to the Col de Tricot, followed by a sharp descent to the Chalets de Miage.

Both paths eventually converge in the beautiful valley of Les Contamines-Montjoie. This traditional Savoyard village is the perfect place to enjoy your first "post-hike" meal. Be sure to visit the Office de Tourisme de Les Contamines if you need last-minute trail updates or weather forecasts for the high passes ahead.

Distance: 16 km (Standard) / 18 km (Variant)
Elevation Gain: 646 m (Standard) / 1,200 m (Variant)
Approximate Time: 5–7 hours

Day 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Day two is widely considered one of the most strenuous yet spectacular stages of the entire circuit.

Leaving the valley floor of Les Contamines, you will begin a relentless ascent into the Nature Reserve of Les Contamines-Montjoie, the highest nature reserve in France.
The trail passes the famous Notre Dame de la Gorge, a beautiful baroque chapel that marks the end of the paved road and the beginning of an ancient Roman path.

From here, you’ll climb steadily past the Refuge de la Balme before tackling the high-altitude terrain of the Col du Bonhomme (2,329m). After a brief traverse to the even higher Crête du Cap des Gours, you will reach the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2,479m). On a clear day, the views back toward the Mont Blanc massif and forward into the Beaufortain region are unparalleled.

From the col, a long, knee-taxing descent leads you down into the remote and tranquil hamlet of Les Chapieux. Because accommodation is extremely limited here, it is essential to book your spot at Auberge de la Nova or the local campsite well in advance for the 2026 season.

Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,316 m (4,317 ft)
Approximate Time: 7–8 hours

Day 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

Day three marks a magnificent milestone: your crossing from France into Italy. The day begins with a steady climb through the high alpine pastures of the Vallée des Glaciers. Many hikers opt to take the local shuttle bus from Les Chapieux to Ville des Glaciers to save 5km of road walking, allowing more energy for the spectacular ascent to the border.
The primary objective is the Col de la Seigne (2,516m).

As you crest the pass, the horizon explodes with the jagged, "Himalayan" profile of the Italian side of the Mont Blanc massif. Unlike the glaciated slopes of France, the Italian face (known as Monte Bianco) is a vertical wall of dark granite and tumbling ice.

From the pass, you will descend into the Val Veny, passing the Casermetta al Col de la Seigne, an environmental education center housed in a former barracks. The day concludes at Rifugio Elisabetta, a hut perched dramatically on a rocky spur overlooking the Brenva and Miage glaciers.

Distance: 15 km (9 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,000 m (3,280 ft)
Approximate Time: 5–6 hours

Day 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

Day four transitions from the high, wild silence of the French-Italian border to the bustling, chic atmosphere of Courmayeur, the "mountaineering capital" of Italy. Starting from the perched position of Rifugio Elisabetta, you’ll begin by descending onto the flat, marshy plain of Lac Combal. 

As you reach the end of the lake, you have a critical choice to make:

• The Main Route (High Path): A steady climb toward the Mont Favre spur (2,430m). This route is highly recommended for its panoramic "balcony" views of the entire Val Veny and the south face of Mont Blanc. You’ll eventually pass Rifugio Maison Vieille—a legendary spot for a mid-day pasta or espresso—before beginning a steep, zig-zagging descent through pine forests into the village of Dolonne and finally Courmayeur.
• The Valley Floor Variant: At the end of Lac Combal, you can continue along the lower road to La Visaille. From there, you can catch a local Arriva bus directly into Courmayeur. This is an excellent option for tired knees or poor weather, as it saves several hours of steep downhill walking. 

Courmayeur itself is the largest town on the circuit and the ideal spot for a mid-trek resupply. Spend the evening wandering the cobblestone streets of the Via Roma, enjoying world-class gelato, or relaxing at the famous QC Terme Pré Saint Didier spa nearby. 

Distance: 15.5 km (9.6 miles)
Elevation Gain: 500 m – 580 m
Approximate Time: 6–7 hours

Day 5: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Day five is often cited by hikers as the most visually rewarding stage of the entire trek. After a potential rest morning in Courmayeur, you will begin a steep but well-graded climb through larch forests toward Rifugio Bertone. Upon reaching the ridge, the hard work is largely over, and you are rewarded with one of the most famous "balcony" walks in the Alps.

The trail traverses the high slopes of the Val Ferret, keeping you at a consistent altitude while providing a front-row seat to the Grandes Jorasses, the Dent du Géant, and the cascading glaciers of the Italian side. The sheer verticality of the peaks across the valley is breathtaking and offers a stark contrast to the rolling green hills of the Swiss border ahead.

The stage ends at Rifugio Bonatti, named after the legendary Italian mountaineer Walter Bonatti. This hut is renowned for its exceptional hospitality, delicious Italian cuisine, and a terrace that offers an unobstructed view of the sunset hitting the granite spires. For 2026, booking Rifugio Bonatti well in advance is essential, as it is one of the most sought-after stays on the circuit.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 860 m (2,822 ft)
Approximate Time: 5–6 hours

Day 6: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Day six marks your transition from the rugged, vertical drama of Italy into the serene, pastoral landscapes of Switzerland. The day begins with a gentle traverse from Rifugio Bonatti across the upper reaches of the Val Ferret, gradually descending toward the valley floor before the final push to the border.

The primary challenge of the day is the ascent to the Grand Col Ferret (2,537m). As you climb, the views behind you of the jagged Grandes Jorasses are replaced by the vast, rolling green vistas of the Swiss Valais. At the summit of the pass, you officially cross the border. The descent on the Swiss side is notably gentler than the Italian ascent, winding through alpine meadows often filled with the sound of traditional cowbells.

You will pass the Alpage de la Peule, a working dairy farm and refreshment stop, before continuing down to the quiet village of La Fouly. Tucked beneath the "Petit Ferret," this village offers a quintessential Swiss experience with its flower-laden chalets and tranquil atmosphere. For hikers needing a break, the local Swiss post bus runs through this valley, providing an easy link to the next stage if your legs are feeling the cumulative miles.

Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
Elevation Gain: 895 m (2,936 ft)
Approximate Time: 6–7 hours

Day 7: La Fouly to Champex-Lac

Day seven is often referred to as the "recovery stage" of the Tour du Mont Blanc. After the high-altitude intensity of the previous days, this section trades jagged peaks for enchanted forests and idyllic Swiss hamlets. The path follows the Dranse de Ferret river, meandering through the bottom of the valley with significantly less elevation gain than any other day on the circuit.

You will pass through several postcard-perfect villages, including Praz-de-Fort and Les Arlaches, where you can admire traditional Swiss stone-and-wood architecture that has stood for centuries. The final portion of the day involves a steady, winding climb through a shaded forest to reach the "Little Canada" of the Alps: Champex-Lac.

The highlight of this stage is the stunning glacial lake at the center of the village. It’s the perfect place to rent a rowboat, visit the Flore-Alpe Botanical Garden, or simply enjoy a coffee on a lakeside terrace. For those staying overnight, the Gîte Bon Abri or the local hotels offer a cozy Swiss welcome.

Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
Elevation Gain: 420 m (1,378 ft)
Approximate Time: 4–5 hours

Day 8: Champex-Lac to Trient (via Bovine or Fenêtre d'Arpette)

Day eight offers a "choose your own adventure" scenario, featuring two paths with vastly different characters. Both routes lead to the small, pink-churched village of Trient, but the physical demand varies significantly.

• The Bovine Route (Standard): This is the classic TMB trail. It winds through lush larch forests before opening up into high alpine pastures at the Bovine farmstead. The highlight here isn't a jagged peak, but the sprawling panoramic view of the Rhône Valley and the Swiss town of Martigny far below. It’s a steady, manageable climb followed by a descent through the woods to the Col de la Forclaz.
• The Fenêtre d'Arpette (Variant): This is widely considered the most difficult variant on the entire TMB and should only be attempted in clear, stable weather. It involves a grueling ascent over a massive boulder field to reach the "window" (Fenêtre) at 2,665m. The reward is a staggering, close-up view of the Trient Glacier. The descent is exceptionally steep and technical, requiring careful footwork.

Whichever path you choose, you will finish the day in the deep valley of Trient. Most hikers gather at the Auberge du Mont Blanc to share stories of the day’s crossing over a hearty Swiss fondue.

Distance (Bovine): 16 km (10 miles) | Gain: 740 m
Distance (Arpette): 14 km (8.7 miles) | Gain: 1,200 m
Approximate Time: 5.5 hours (Bovine) / 7–9 hours (Arpette)

Day 9: Trient to Tré-le-Champ

Day nine marks your triumphant return to France. Leaving the pink church of Trient behind, you will begin a steady, zig-zagging climb through pine forests toward the Swiss-French border. The target is the Col de Balme (2,191m), a wide, grassy saddle that offers one of the most iconic "reveal" moments of the entire trek.

As you step across the border, the entire Chamonix Valley opens up before you, with the north face of Mont Blanc and the jagged Aiguille Verte dominating the horizon. It is a moment of immense satisfaction as you look back at the massive peaks you have spent the last week circumnavigating.

From the col, you have two main descent options:

• The Standard Route: A direct and gentle descent toward the village of Le Tour.
• The Aiguillettes des Posettes Variant: A spectacular ridge-line walk that keeps you high above the valley for longer, providing 360-degree views before dropping down into the hamlet of Tré-le-Champ.

Tré-le-Champ is a quiet, picturesque settlement known for its traditional stone houses. It serves as the perfect final staging post before the grand finale. Many hikers choose to stay at the rustic Auberge la Boerne, a historic mountain lodge famous for its cozy atmosphere and communal hiker spirit.

Distance: 13 km (8 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,000 m (3,280 ft)
Approximate Time: 5–6 hours

Day 10: Tré-le-Champ to Chamonix (via Lac Blanc)

The final day of the Tour du Mont Blanc is a grand finale in every sense, taking you through the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve. This stage is famous for its physical challenge, technical fun, and the most photographed views of the entire 170km circuit. 

The day begins with the legendary "Ladders of the TMB." To reach the Grand Balcon Sud, you’ll navigate a series of steady metal ladders and handrails bolted into the rock face. While exhilarating, hikers with a severe fear of heights can opt for a longer, winding detour via the Col des Montets. 

After the ladders, the trail climbs toward Lac Blanc (2,352m). On a calm day, the entire Mont Blanc range is perfectly mirrored in the lake's turquoise waters. It is the ultimate spot for a final celebratory photo. From the lake, you will traverse the "Grand Balcon Sud," a spectacular high-altitude balcony path that keeps the massif in full view as you head toward La Flégère. 

To conclude your journey, you can either descend on foot through shaded forests or take the La Flégère Cable Car down to Les Praz, followed by a short walk or bus ride back into the heart of Chamonix. Crossing the "finish line" in the town center, you’ll join the ranks of those who have successfully completed one of the world's greatest treks. 

Distance: 13 km (8 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,000 m (3,280 ft)
Approximate Time: 6–8 hours 

Counter-Clockwise vs. Clockwise

Choosing your direction is a pivotal decision when planning your TMB journey. While the trail is a loop, the experience varies significantly depending on which way you turn.

The Classic Counter-Clockwise (CCW) Route

This is the "official" direction and the one followed by the vast majority of hikers (and this itinerary). Starting in France and moving toward Italy, it offers a steady build-up of scenery, culminating in the dramatic "reveal" of the Mont Blanc massif as you cross the Col de la Seigne. The primary benefit is social; you’ll likely meet the same group of hikers at the refuges each night.

The Clockwise (CW) Route

Choosing to go "against the grain" offers a quieter, more solitary experience on the trail. You’ll find the ascents are often steeper but shorter, while the descents are long and gradual. This direction is also a strategic choice for late-season hikers or those booking late for 2026; because it is less popular, you may find better last-minute accommodation availability in the mountain huts.