Leaving from the village of Le Tour this morning we take the scenic high mountain path of Balme heading towards Switzerland. Weather permitting you will be able to take some wonderful photos of the Mont Blanc massif including the impressive “La Verte”, the Drus and the Needles of Chamonix. We will cross the border between France and Switzerland before making our way down to the village of Trient for overnight accommodation. (9km, +800m/2624ft, -900m/2953ft)

Meals:  L,D

There are two routes between Trient and Champex. The first is via the Mountain of Bovine which involves crossing the Forclaz Pass (1527m) where there are beautiful lake views. The other is The “Fenêtre d'Arpette” (2665m) route, which is a variant on the Tour du Mont Blanc and quite challenging. Our aim is to always take this trail except in bad weather. The trail is not as well defined as the lower route but as with many pass crossings, the rewards on a good weather day are extraordinary views, including to the Trient Glacier. The descent to Champex is steep though you will have the opportunity to have a hot shower at the lodge. The decision on which path will be taken is always at the discretion of the guide. (18.6km, +1200m/3937ft, -1000m/3280ft or +800m/2624ft, -650m/2132ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we have a bus transfer to the small village of Ferret (1705m). The route takes us out of Switzerland and into Italy by the Grand Col Ferret (2537m) pass. It’s a steady climb and at the Col the sweeping views of the Pre de Bar glacier are awe-inspiring. After some time drinking in the panorama we will amble down the steep track to Refuge Elena which is located at the base of the glacier, and a great place to view the changing light on the alps. A further hour takes us to the roadhead where we are transferred to Courmayeur and our overnight accommodation. (15.5km, +900m/2953ft, -800m/2624ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we transfer to La Visaille then set off on foot, ascending the enchanting valley where the enormous Miage glacier flows into Lake Combal. The Italian side of Mont Blanc offers a completely different perspective of the highest peak in the European Alps. We continue over the Seigne mountain path, overhung by limestone pyramids, and the Estelette Glacier, until we reach France. The trail descends through high mountain pastures to Ville des Glaciers. Today provides an excellent opportunity to buy Beaufort cheese from the local farmers. (+900m/2953ft, -1000m/3280ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

A beautiful climb this morning takes us up mountain pastures to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2483m) where there are good views southeast to the peaks of the Vanoise. We descend to the Contamines Natural Reserve, through a pine forest fringed gorge and down to an ancient Roman Road and the church of Notre Dame de la Gorge. We continue walking to our accommodation in the Contamines Valley. (+900m/2953ft, -1200m/3937ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

The trail takes us along the river valley and heads slowly to La Gruvaz before continuing to Le Champel and a fairly steep ascent via Bionnassay to the Col de Voza. We descend following a combination of gravel roads and tracks to reach the town of Les Houches, where the trek concludes. (+500m/1640ft, -900m/2952ft)

Meals:  B,L