Tour du Mont Blanc Week

• Five nights at two- and three-star hotels, two nights at inns
• Six days walking
• Light backpacking; some steep ascents/descents
• Altitude maximum: 8,323ft (2,537m); average: 4,595ft (1,400m)
• Option to travel by train to your adventure

Expect fair weather from late June to early October, but all mountain ranges create their own weather patterns and the Alps are no exception. It can and does rain and it can be surprisingly cold at times, particularly on the high passes. Expected daytime temperatures are:

15C-25C (59F-77F) in the valleys, although it can sometimes reach 30C (86F) in July/August

5C-15C (41F-59F) on the passes, though it will feel colder if wet and windy

5C-15C (41F-59F) in the valley at night, possibly a little lower early and late in the season

There is always the possibility of lying snow, especially in the early season, and snowfall even in August and September when we may find new snow on the passes. On late season treks (September), the days are shorter and we need to make early starts to make the most of the available daylight hours.

This trip has been rated Activity Level 5 (Challenging).

Some of the days are long, quite often involving ascents of 3,000ft-4,000ft (900m-1,200m), equivalent to three to four hours walking uphill, followed by similar descents, amounting to eight to nine hours of walking each day (including rest stops and lunch). Although the paths are well maintained, there are sections that are rough underfoot.

As this is a group holiday, you need to be confident your fitness will allow you to enjoyably walk at a consistent and steady pace that matches the group average, therefore allowing the group to finish the day at a reasonable time. You will also enjoy the trek a great deal more if your fitness allows you to walk the route in relative ease. You will have to carry your own gear with you (there is no vehicle support), but this need not weigh more than 17lb-22lb (8kg-10kg) if you pack carefully.

The route throughout is non-technical, although there is a short section with a fixed sloping ladder and metal footsteps to help traverse what would be a steeper section. We will be walking mountain paths throughout, however, and this trip is not advised for severe vertigo sufferers.

If you cannot walk during the itinerary and want to opt out of a day, please note this can sometimes be a little tricky dependent on where on the circuit you are. To reach the next point you need to take a public bus (which run at limited times) or taxi (which can be expensive in more remote locations).

All ascents, descents and distances listed have been measured by our local partner using satellite-based mapping software. Please note, GPS measuring devices can give differing results, especially in mountainous terrain and on winding paths.  Measurements stated throughout these Trip Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on the group pace.

Download our Fitness Training Guide for more information on our Activity Levels.