| Summer 2008 > Mont-Blanc Tour > Tour du Mont-Blanc / Half Tour / North part |  |
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The TMB is undoubtedly the most reknown Alpine tour. The great alpine classic which any hiker would be proud to have accomplished. These are just some of the reasons we are so attracted to the TMB : the great number of prestigous glaciers and summits such as the Bionnassay, the Peuterey, the Grandes Jorasses, the Mont Dolent,… and of course the grand daddy of all of them, the Mont Blanc, the highest point in continental europe. Add to this the variety of countryside, crossing three countries, excellent pathways, and our mountain leaders who know every inch of the terrain and who will guide you through the magnificent corners of this region. The TMB is not a hard hike with 6 to 8 hours walking per day at an average of 1000m altitude change daily, but is more enjoyable for those in good shape. A bit of training beforehand should ward off any unpleasant surprises ! The half tours were conceived to allow you to complete the entire loop in one or two tours. If you are thinking of doing the whole loop we offer you a night in Courmayeur between the two. Difficulty : 6 days of walking, 5 nights in gites or refuges (dormitories) carrying a light day pack (for midday pic nic etc) Overnight affaires are transported by minibus (change of clothing, toiletries etc) Minibus support allows not only to go light but also to go longer. This formula is idea for composite groups and for the best of walkers who will discover all the variations as well as for the more modest walkiers who can take advantage of the minbus service to shorten the day. |
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ITINERARY: JOUR 1 : COURMAYEUR - LAVACHEY Leaving from the hamlet of Villair (1340m) is a beautiful forested ascent to the Bertonne refuge, then over a crest dominating the Val Ferret we get to Tete Bernada (2534m), we are at the summit of one of the most beautifull lookouts on the whole TMB. There is no lift access here, no 4x4s, just the mountian and us. The view is exquisit. Descent to Lavachey (1640 m), night in an auberge. JOUR 2 : LAVACHEY – LA FOULY Leave the auberge towards Malatra then a pretty traverse bring us to Arnuva. The ascent to the col Ferret (2537 m) is steep but enjoyable. On the col we cross the Swiss Italian border. Lovely downhill through valaisan pastures to the charming village of Fouly (1595 m). JOUR 3 : LA FOULY - CHAMPEX Easy day crossing the peaceful Swiss Val Ferret. Passing through beautiful hamlets whose old chalets have seen generation of walkers, preceded by generation of travellers crossing the Alps from north to south. We reach Champex and its famous lake via a woodlands crossing. JOUR 4 : CHAMPEX – TRIENT The classic TMB takes the Bovine route. An hour and a half of easy walking followed by a rapid ascent in the forest and we are hanging over the Rhone valley and the town of Martigny. You will not be disappointed with this fabulous balcony. Easy descent to the col de Forclaz. There is a possible variation via the Fenetre d’Arpette d’Arpette (2671 m), (ì 1050 m î 1420 m  6 heures 30), a rocky area between the Pointe des Ecandies and Pointe du Genepy, a famous passage into the Trient valley across from its magnificent glacier (only for good walkers and in good weather conditions) We spend our last night at Trient (1271 m). |
JOUR 5 : TRIENT– TRELECHAMP The walk up to the Col de Balme (2131 m) via las Herbageres brings us back into France. From this col the view of the Chamonix valley is unique and stays with us along the Posettes ridge all the way to Trelechamp (1417 m) in the upper Chamonix valley. Possible variation on the Tseppes path. JOUR 6 : TRELECHAMP - CHAMONIX From Trelechamp we climb up to Cheserys, a balcony offering grandiose views ; the glaciers of le Tour, Argentiere, the mer de glace, the aiguille verte, the Drus , the Aiguilles de Chamonix and of course the Mont Blanc dominating all these marvells. We expect to add a slice of wildlife to this day as a reward for our efforts, ibex are common here. The tour ends at Flegere, we return to Chamonix by cable car in the afternoon. NB. The guide or mountain leader may modify the itinerary if conditons necessitate. Misc :Bring some euros and swiss francs for personal expenses Meeting point:Departure will be from the Compagnie des Guides’office in Chamonix There will be a predeparture meeting with your guide or mountain leader the night before at 6pm at the guides offices. Price summer 2008 : 590 € per person (minimum 6 people) This price includes : -The mountain guide, the mountain leaders (12 people max per mountain leader) -Half board in refuges (dormitories) - drinks not included -Midday picnics -Lift tickets -Transportation to the end of the tour -Luggage transportation Proposed departures for summer 2008 : Sunday 13 July, 3 and 24 August 2008 |
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