| Summer 2008 > Mont-Blanc Tour > Mont-Blanc Tour "Day Bag" |  |
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The spectacular circuit around the Mont-Blanc (TMB) is undoubtedly the most reknowned Alpine tour. From the massif of Mont Blanc (15 771’- the roof of western Europe), seven valleys extend into France, Italy and Switzerland. Each retains its own unique culture, architecture and landscape. Each day we hike up to the ridges and descend into valleys below, with time to enjoy views of glaciers, green mountain meadows and peaks (Bionnassay, Peuterey, Grandes Jorasses, Dolent, Aiguille Verte !..). IMPORTANT DETAILS: REFUGE ACCOMMODATIONS: Dormitory style lodging with 12 or more persons per room. Refuges always have dining rooms for dinner and breakfast. You can purchase wine, beer, soft drinks and snacks. These refuges are often located in spectacular mountain settings and offer little privacy and showers (Not always with hot water !). Toilets are usually outhouses. QUALIFICATION: The TMB Circuit is designed for fit, energic people who have a healthy dose of curiosity and enthusiasm about the world,and who like to be active.The most important prerequisites are a spirit of adventure and positive attitude. You should be an experienced hiker in good physical condition. You must be prepared and capable of walking an average of 5 to 7 hours a day on trails with steep ascents and descents.(averaging 3000 to 4000 feet up and 2000 to 3000 feet down each day). |
The Aiguille Verte and the Drus |
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ITINERARY : Day 1: LES HOUCHES-LES CONTAMINES: We have a short transfer before going up to the Col de Voza (5500’) where we’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Mont-Blanc range. Continue hiking down below the tumbling Bionnassay Glacier, and up to the Col de Tricot (6955’). A steep descent brings us to the Chalets de Miage (5115’). After lunch, a short climb takes us up to Le Truc (5942’), then down through the thikly wooded hillside to the charming small town of Les Contamines (3829’), where we spend the night. Hiking time is about six hours. L,D. Camping le Pontet (Dormitory) Day 2: LES CONTAMINES-LES CHAPIEUX: We hike up an old Roman road to the Plan des Dames, then make a long ascent to the Col du Bonhomme (7641’) and Croix du Bonhomme (8100’) for lunch. In afternoon we hike downhill on a grassy trail to les Chapieux (5500’). Approximately six and half hours hiking. B,L,D. Auberge de la Nova Day 3: LES CHAPIEUX-COL CHECROUIT (ITALY): We transfer to the end of the « Vallée des Glaciers », then enjoy a relatively easy hike over the Col de la Seigne (8245’) and down into Italy to Lac Combal. We hike up to Arp Vieille from where, after a beautiful traverse with scenic views in front of the Italian side of Mont-Blanc, we arrive at the Col Checrouit (6415’). Hiking time about seven hours. B,L,D. Refugio Maison vieille Day 4: COL CHECROUIT-CHAMPEX: Hihe down to Courmayeur(4014’), and take the bus to Arnuva, in the Italian Val Ferret. After a short transfer, we walk up a nice trail past the spectacular « Glacier de Pré de Bar ». Cross the Grand Col Ferret (8300’) to enter Switzerland, and descent to the scenic village of la Fouly (5280’), located beneath the Glacier de l’A Neuve. An easy trail continue down into the Swiss Val Ferret to Praz-de-fort. Transfer to the small Lake resort of Champex. Hiking time is seven hours. B,L,D. Relais d’Arpette Day 5: CHAMPEX-TRIENT: We start hiking down to Champex d’en Bas, with a steep winding path heading towards the north across alpine pastures (great views of Martigny, the Rhone Valley and the Valais). Weather permitting, an alternate trail by the « Fenetre d’Arpette » (8760’), a rocky « window » across a mountain ridge, can be taken. Six or seven hours hiking. B,L,D. Relais du Mont-Blanc Day 6: TRIENT-CHAMONIX: Hike over the Col de Balme (7188’) through forest and high pastures and back into the Chamonix Valley. Majestic views of Mont-Blanc reappear as we hike over the Col. We descent to Le Tour and transfer back to Chamonix. Hiking time is six hours. End of the trip. B,L. LAND COST (Summer 2008): 595 € (6 persons minimum) Dates proposed (Summer 2008): Sunday : June 15th & 22nd; July 6th & 20th; August 3rd,10th,17th & 31st; September 14th. DELAYS: If the trip is delayed because of bad weather, cancelled or delayed flights or delays on other modes of transport, sickness situation for which the Compagnie des Guides or its agents cannot control, the cost of delays is not included. |
What’s included - leadership - accommodations in refuges (dormitory style) - meals as noted (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) - local group transfers by bus or cable car - ground transportation by van What’s not - transportation to Chamonix - hotel in Chamonix, - drinks and extras - insurance of any kind - optional tips to leader EQUIPMENT: This is a mountain trip where we cross passes above 8250 feet. Temperature can drop to freezing and windchill factor can make it colder. Be prepared for it. Layering is the best way to stay warm. Your daypack should be midsize to hold your raingear, lunch, water, and your camera. The rest of your luggage travels in the assisting minibus. |
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