France · Italy · Switzerland · Three countries & alpine meadows
Tour du Mont Blanc
A grand loop around the Alps' highest peak
Distance
~170 km (full loop)
Duration
7–11 days
Max elevation
~2,665 m (Fenêtre d'Arpette)
Difficulty
Moderate–hard · long days
A circuit of the Mont Blanc massif across France, Italy and Switzerland, linking flower-filled valleys, glaciated passes and mountain refuges. Europe's most beloved long-distance walk offers big scenery with cozy huts and hot meals each night — no tent required.
Along the trailStops
Les Houches
The traditional start near Chamonix, where the anticlockwise loop begins.
Col de la Croix du Bonhomme
An early high pass into remote French valleys with a welcoming refuge.
Courmayeur
The Italian mountain town on the massif's sunny south side, famous for its food.
Grand Col Ferret
The pass marking the border crossing from Italy into Switzerland.
Chamonix
The mountaineering capital where the loop closes beneath Mont Blanc itself.
Good to knowTips
- Book mountain refuges well in advance — they fill fast in July and August.
- You can walk it in either direction and use buses/lifts to skip or shorten stages.
- Alpine weather changes fast; carry layers, rain gear and sturdy boots.
Getting thereLogistics
Base yourself in Chamonix (reachable from Geneva airport). Refuges and hotels provide half-board along the route, so you carry only a daypack. Luggage-transfer services exist for lighter walking.
Next hike
Kumano Kodo