“I will say this only once Climb every mountain. Ford every stream. Follow every rainbow till you find your dream.”
That dream just might lead you to Chamonix, and onto the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc.
Wow, it’s been only a short time since we were all following our dream on the trail. What an amazing trip we had. From glacier views and alpine villages to big climbs, shared laughter, and cozy evenings together, every day brought something new. Here’s how our Tour du Mont Blanc journey unfolded.
Arrival in Chamonix: Cable Cars, Glaciers & First Alpine Views
We started with a fantastic day in Chamonix, taking the cable car early in the morning to the top of Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc. Here we could see the climbers roped up, making their way down the steep ridge to start their morning climbs on Mont Blanc. We also held our breath as we stood over the void and looked down at the crevasses below.
Then we descended halfway and hiked the balcony trail to warm up our legs. Arriving at the heart of Mer de Glace, we climbed down into the glacier itself before taking the cog railway back to Chamonix, where we prepared to start our trek early the next morning.
After a wonderful dinner, complete with a spectacular dessert bar and Crêpe Suzette, it was off to bed.
Stepping Onto the Trail: France, Wildflowers & Alpine Villages
On Monday, we started our trek with an early bus to Les Houches, then took the cable car up to Bellevue to begin our ascent to Col de Tricot. Along the way, we were surrounded by wildflowers and learned what to do in the event of rockfall.
Lunch brought delicious omelets and green salad at a mountain refuge, and that evening we hiked into the alpine village of Les Contamines where we spent the night. That first day reminded us that we truly were on a Level 5 hike.
The next day, we continued from Les Contamines with a steep climb up the old Roman road. All the while, the weather was throwing rain at us, and waterproofs were the order of the day. We hit the snowline as we reached the Col and made our way to Croix du Bonhomme before descending—slipping and sliding through the mud.
That evening we enjoyed true Savoyard hospitality with tartiflette and charcuterie, the perfect reward after a full day on the trail.
Crossing Borders: Into Italy for Gelato & Mountain Charm
On Wednesday, we crossed the border into Italy at Col de la Seigne. After the bad weather of the previous day, the clear skies felt like a gift. We enjoyed wildflowers and stunning views as we climbed, then continued down toward town.
Arriving in Courmayeur meant treating ourselves to gelato, some of the best in the world. After checking into our hotel, a few travelers headed out to explore, enjoying a little shopping in this cashmere and silk haven.
It was a lovely mix of mountain hiking by day and Italian charm by evening.
Switzerland: Shepherd Trails, Fondue & Farm Lunches
Thursday began with a bus ride up the valley before hiking to Col Grand Ferret, stopping along the way for morning hot chocolate or coffee at a mountain hut. On the way down, we followed the Shepherds Trail, wandering through grazing cows before arriving in La Fouly and transferring to Champex, a sweet town surrounding a beautiful lake.
On Friday, we climbed again, hiking up through forest and pasture until we reached a farm overlooking the Rhône Valley. Here, a few lucky hikers had their dreams come true with fondue and incredible views. True to pattern, we hiked up in the morning and down in the afternoon.
That evening we continued on to Martigny, and some travelers even squeezed in a visit to see the famous St. Bernard dogs.
Back to France: A Final Pass & Celebration in Chamonix
Saturday marked the end of our hiking journey. We departed from Col de la Balme and followed the quiet trail before entering back into France. To save our knees, we jumped on the cable car and then took the bus back to Chamonix.
We finished just in time for a little last-minute shopping and a fantastic celebratory dinner at Heliopic Hotel & Spa.
It was the perfect way to close out a week of border crossings, big climbs, tired legs, shared stories, and walking side by side day after day. Tour du Mont Blanc is a legedary hike that all people should have on their bucket list. It was a pleasure to experience this bucket list opportunity with these amazing women.
