Trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc: A Journey Through the Heart of the Alps

Trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc: Complete two-way hiking guidebook and map booklet (Cicerone Trekking Guides)

by Kev Reynolds

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	65477 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	440 pages

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Welcome to the ultimate guide to trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc, one of the most iconic and challenging hiking trails in the world. This comprehensive guidebook will provide you with everything you need to plan and execute an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Alps.

The Tour of Mont Blanc (TMB) is a circular route that circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif, the highest mountain in the Alps. The trail covers approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) and traverses three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. It typically takes 7-10 days to complete, depending on your fitness level and the pace you set.

Planning Your Trek

Planning your TMB trek is an important part of ensuring a successful and enjoyable experience. Here are some key things to consider:

• When to go: The best time to trek the TMB is during the summer months (June-September),when the weather is generally mild and stable. However, it's important to note that the trail can be crowded during this time, so it's best to book your accommodations and transportation in advance.
• Fitness level: The TMB is a challenging trek, so it's important to be in good physical condition before you start. You should be able to hike for several hours each day, carrying a backpack weighing 10-15 kilograms (22-33 pounds).
• Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options available along the TMB, from mountain huts to hotels and guesthouses. It's important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you're traveling during the peak season.
• Transportation: The TMB starts and ends in Chamonix, France. There are several ways to get to Chamonix, including by train, bus, or car. Once you're in Chamonix, you can Free Download a TMB pass, which will give you access to the trail and all of the mountain huts along the way.

The Trek

The TMB is divided into 11 stages, each of which offers its own unique challenges and rewards. Here is a brief overview of each stage:

1. Stage 1: Chamonix to Les Houches (10.5 km, 3-4 hours) - This is a relatively easy stage that follows the valley floor along the Arve River. The trail passes through several small villages, including Les Houches, where you can stock up on supplies.
2. Stage 2: Les Houches to Les Contamines-Montjoie (15 km, 5-6 hours) - This stage begins with a steep climb up to the Col de Voza (1,657 m). The trail then descends into the Val Montjoie, a beautiful valley surrounded by towering peaks. You'll spend the night in the village of Les Contamines-Montjoie.
3. Stage 3: Les Contamines-Montjoie to Courmayeur (19 km, 6-7 hours) - This is one of the most challenging stages of the TMB, as it involves climbing over the Col du Bonhomme (2,329 m) and the Col de la Seigne (2,516 m). The trail offers stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif throughout.
4. Stage 4: Courmayeur to La Fouly (18 km, 5-6 hours) - This stage takes you through the Val Ferret, a beautiful valley on the Italian side of the Mont Blanc massif. The trail follows the Dora Baltea River and passes through several small villages. You'll spend the night in the village of La Fouly, Switzerland.
5. Stage 5: La Fouly to Champex-Lac (19 km, 6-7 hours) - This stage involves climbing over the Col de Fenêtre (2,683 m),which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail then descends into the Val d'Arpette, a beautiful valley in Switzerland. You'll spend the night in the village of Champex-Lac.
6. Stage 6: Champex-Lac to Trient (17 km, 5-6 hours) - This stage follows the Trient River through a beautiful valley. The trail passes through several small villages, including Trient, where you can stock up on supplies.
7. Stage 7: Trient to Vallorcine (18 km, 6-7 hours) - This stage involves climbing over the Col de la Forclaz (1,526 m),which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail then descends into the Val de Chamonix, a beautiful valley in France. You'll spend the night in the village of Vallorcine.
8. Stage 8: Vallorcine to Argentière (14 km, 4-5 hours) - This stage follows the Arve River through a beautiful valley. The trail passes through several small villages, including Argentière, where you can stock up on supplies.
9. Stage 9: Argentière to Les Houches (12 km, 3-4 hours) - This stage involves climbing over the Col des Montets (1,461 m),which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail then descends into the Val Montjoie, a beautiful valley surrounded by towering peaks. You'll spend the night in the village of Les Houches.
10. Stage 10: Les Houches to Chamonix (10.5 km, 3-4 hours) - This stage follows the valley floor along the Arve River. The trail passes through several small villages, including Chamonix, where you can celebrate your successful completion of the TMB.

Tips for Trekking the TMB

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your TMB trek:

• Train for the trek: The TMB is a challenging trek, so it's important to be in good physical condition before you start. Start training several months in advance, and gradually increase the distance and elevation gain of your hikes.
• Pack light: It's important to pack light for the TMB, as you'll be carrying your backpack for several hours each day. Bring only the essentials, and leave behind any unnecessary items.
• Break in your boots: Make sure to break in your hiking boots before you start the trek. This will help prevent blisters and other foot problems.
• Bring plenty of water: It's important to stay hydrated on the TMB, so bring plenty of water with you each day. You can refill your water bottle at the mountain huts along the way.
• Be prepared for all types of weather: The weather in the Alps can change quickly, so be prepared for all types of conditions. Bring a rain jacket, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Inform someone of your plans: Before you start the trek, let someone know your itinerary and when you expect to return. This will help ensure that someone knows where you are in case of an emergency.

Trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc is an unforgettable experience that will challenge you both physically and mentally. But if you're properly prepared, you'll be rewarded with stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and the transformative power of nature. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your TMB trek today!