Tour Du Mont Blanc
A Must-Do Mountain Trek
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is an absolutely stunning trek, a must for anyone who enjoys hiking in the mountains. Every direction you look, you are blessed with incredible views, and the villages dotted along the trail provide excellent supply points. My adventure began with two friends, Lou and Emma, and it was an experience I'll never forget.
Day 1: Starting with a Loop
With a storm approaching, we decided to adjust our plans and tackle what was supposed to be our last day first. We drove up to Tre-le-Champ-le-Haut and set out on a loop via Lac Blanc and Flegere, returning to our starting point. This 10-mile hike, with about 4000 feet of ascent, was a perfect introduction to the TMB. The route is famous for its ladders, which add a thrilling element to the hike.
The views were breathtaking, with Lac Blanc offering a serene and picturesque spot to rest. The anticipation of the storm added a sense of urgency, but the weather held, allowing us to enjoy the stunning scenery without interruption.
Day 2: Trail Running in Chamonix
The next day, the storm hit as predicted. Instead of hiking, we opted for a trail run from Chamonix. Running in the storm was exhilarating, and Chamonix itself was a delight. Known for its excellent shopping and food, we spent the day exploring the town, indulging in local cuisine, and preparing for the next leg of our journey. The charm of Chamonix, with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning backdrop, made it a memorable day despite the weather.
Day 3: Les Houches to La Giettaz
With the storm clearing, we resumed our trek from Les Houches to La Giettaz. This 12-mile hike, with 2500 feet of ascent, was beautiful and challenging. The trails were well-marked and offered ample water fountains along the way. We camped near a river that night, the sound of the flowing water providing a soothing backdrop to our campsite.
Day 4: Crossing into Italy
Our next leg took us from La Giettaz to Lex Blanche, a demanding 16-mile hike with 6500 feet of ascent. This stage was particularly challenging, but the crossing into Italy made it worthwhile. As night approached and the weather turned again, we reached a refuge just in time. Hot food and a warm place to rest were very welcome after such a strenuous day.
Day 5: Onwards to Courmayeur
The final stretch of our trek was 12miles and took us around to Courmayeur, a beautiful town that is definitely worth exploring. The picturesque streets, charming shops, and excellent food were a perfect way to conclude our trek. From here, we hopped in the car and headed back to the airport, our hearts full of the incredible experiences and memories we had made.
TMB Trek Facts and the UTMB
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a circular trail covering approximately 105 miles (170 km) and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The trek typically takes 7-11 days to complete, but it can be adapted based on fitness levels and time constraints. The route offers diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to rugged mountain passes, and provides ample opportunities to experience the local cultures and cuisines.
In addition to the hiking trail, the TMB is famous for the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), one of the most challenging and prestigious trail running races in the world. The UTMB covers the same route as the TMB but is completed in one go, with elite runners finishing in less than 24 hours. The race attracts top endurance athletes from around the globe and is a testament to the physical and mental demands of the Mont Blanc circuit.
Whether you're hiking or running, the Tour du Mont Blanc is an adventure of a lifetime, offering unparalleled natural beauty and a profound sense of achievement. If you love trekking in the mountains, this iconic trail should be at the top of your list.
