camping le tour chamonix

Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Guide: Everything You Need to Know

By: Author Gabi

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc is a great way to save money and experience beautiful camping spots on your Alps adventure. This ultimate guide will tell you everything you need to know about camping on this iconic trek from where to camp, tips on wild camping, and how to coordinate food and meals.

We went back and forth so many times on whether we should camp on the Tour du Mont Blanc or just go with the more popular option of staying at Refuges. The refuges are, after all, what makes the TMB so unique.

In the end, what made us decide to go camping was two things:

  • Each night we spent in a tent instead of a refuge saved us almost $200 in refuge expenses for the 3 of us.
  • That $200 saved could be $200 spent on more yummy European food and drinks.
  • What sealed the deal was the prospect of epic campsites with a view from our tent.

We did in fact score amazing camping spots overlooking sharp, dramatic peaks and because of that, I encourage all experienced backpackers to take on the challenge of hauling a tent and creating your own itinerary.

camping Tour du Mont Blanc

Table of Contents

Reasons to Camp on the TMB

Budget friendly.

If you’ve been putting off hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc because you “can’t afford a trip like that” think again. By bringing a tent, staying at campgrounds, and occasionally wild camping, your trip will be nearly half the cost.

Related: How Much Does it Cost to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc (Coming Soon)

Unfortunately, this is one of the most expensive backpacking trips in the world and if you aren’t hiking solo, it’s pretty insane what it costs to stay in a refuge.

That being said, you can turn this really expensive trip into a moderately budget-friendly trip by camping.

Even if you stay at campgrounds every night (and don’t wild camp), the price is 10 Euros per person on average versus 60 Euros per person on average in refuges (that includes food though).

And if you’re on a really tight budget, cooking your food while tent camping with your backpacking stove will make this trip far more budget-friendly.

Save Money, Eat More

Refuges are REALLY expensive and so one of the biggest things we liked about the prospect of tent camping was that we’d have more money to eat. Yeah sure we’ll sacrifice on the comforts of a cozy bed and a hot shower every night but if we’re coming to Europe, we want to eat like kings.

If that sounds like you, camping is probably a good choice.

Solitude and Stunning Scenery

This was the deciding factor for us. Yes, we were on a tight budget and yes we wanted to eat a lot of good for but even more, we were going to be in the freaking ALPS! Few places in the world can compare to the beauty of this range and we wanted the full experience of being in it and surrounded by it.

The campsites aren’t all stunning, but the few nights that were, were over-the-top, mind-numbing, and Instagram-worthy beautiful.

The proof can be found in this related blog of 35 photos to inspire you to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc .

Things to Consider Before Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Camping and fastpacking don’t mix.

Regret camping TMB, not fastpacking & camping it. Fastpacking means rapid backpacking, finishing TMB in 7-9 days vs. 9-11 days normally. It involves hiking fast without the tent, possibly using public transportation to skip sections. Carrying a tent’s weight affects speed, challenging for high-altitude crossings. On a 105-mile trail with 33,000 feet of elevation gain, choose between speed or carrying a tent.

Carrying a heavy tent affects speed, especially tackling 2 col crossings/day on a trail gaining 33,000ft over 105 miles. Choose tent or speed.

stage 6 of Tour du Mont Blanc, Italy

Camping on the TMB involves logistical challenges, requiring meticulous planning, especially considering limited food and supply stops. Fastpacking complicates the timing for meals, hiking, and setting up tents before nightfall, hindering the enjoyment of scenic views.

I’ll say it one last time and be done: If you are going to camp, take the time and do it in 10-11 days.

Cool? Cool.

You MUST Plan Out Your Food

The single hardest part of camping was trying to get food. So most importantly: You must carry a camp stove and backpacking food.

In the planning phase, we read so many times about how easy it was to get food. This caused us to go about the planning phase thinking in terms of mileage and places to camp, not in terms of we’ll eat dinner here and then pitch our tent here.

For a trail that’s known for its easy access to luxurious eating opportunities, it’s amazing that we managed to starve as much as we did. We didn’t starve but there were multiple nights we went to bed without proper dinner.

Here’s how to not starve on the Tour du Mont Blanc:

1 | Eat Dinner at Refuges

Option one kinda contradicts the benefit of saving money by camping. If you’re camping for the sake of the experience and have a larger budget, the best way to go about food is to just pay for dinner at each refuge.

The reason that we were hungry so often is that most refugees don’t just let you walk in and pay for what you order at dinnertime like you can at lunch. Lunch on the Tour du Mont Blanc was wonderful most of the time because it was a great way to rest, the meals were fantastic, and we didn’t have to spend a fortune.

Refuge des Mottets on Tour du Mont Blanc

But with dinnertime, “You either partake in the entire meal or have none of it?” (obscure movie reference) and unfortunately, our budget couldn’t accommodate this.

Dinner usually runs around 25-30 Euros per person and with this, you get to enjoy an amazing 3-4 course meal. If you decide to go with this option though, you do need to be arriving at the refuge no later than 5:30 pm. Dinner is served at 7 pm (and sometimes earlier) and you have to be signed up for dinner ahead of time with the refuge managers. You can’t just show up at 7 pm.

Pre-book dinner at refuges via call or email, and carry backup food as they’re remote. It’s an enriching, costly option, though.

2 | Carry a Camp Stove + Backpacking Meals

So unless you want to go with option 1, it is essential that you pack a way to cook your food and that you factor in time to resupply in cities.

Eating lunch at refuges and cooking your dinners is a great way to get a taste of delicious European food whilst also saving money.

The important part of this is meal planning.

While in Europe, I love baguettes but they aren’t the most packable. For a few nights, we enjoyed baguettes, salami, greens, French butter, and croissants—delicious but bulky for backpacks.

Les Contamines, Tour du Mont Blanc

If I were to do it again, I basically would’ve planned 1 day of good food, then 1-2 days of backpacking food. Something that won’t go bad between towns.

Carrying a camp stove is great for cooking traditional backpacking meals and honestly, I would carry a camp stove even if I was just using it to make my coffee in the morning. It wasn’t often, but on a few days when we weren’t camped anywhere close to a refuge, I had to pry myself out of my sleeping bag without coffee…it was terrible.

I recommend these Kuju Coffee Pocket Pourover Packets because they’re super yummy and backpacker-friendly.

Water is Easy to Find

On the subject of food, rest assured that water is very easy to find. Throughout the trail, there are often actual water fountains where you can refill your bottles. Given that you’re camping, you should pack a water filter as a backup.

Hydro blu water filter

The only time we had to use ours was at Chalet du Glacier in Switzerland and at Lac Blanc in France, where the water is not drinkable without being filtered. Hence, why it is necessary to pack a water filter as a backup. If you don’t have a water filter, we love carrying HydroBlu’s Go Flow or Clear Flow systems.

Electrical Outlets are Hard to Come By

This factor depends on the person. I’m a full believer in the value of completely detaching from phones and electronics for a week but at the same time, I’m a photographer at heart and there was no way I was going to do one of the greatest mountain hikes in the world without my good ol’ Sony A6300 .

In addition, I think it’s good to have your phone charged in case you need to make an emergency call, though a GPS/Spot device would work the same.

The point being, it’s up to you whether this even matters but by camping the Tour du Mont Blanc, electricity will be harder to come by. Most campgrounds do have some form of outlet but they’re not charging stations (like outlets in the bathroom for example). So you either need to commit to going off-grid or pack proper battery devices like Jackery Portable power banks and the real-life saver, our Biolite Solar Panel (see pack list below).

Related: What to Pack for Camping on the TMB

Wild Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Any seasoned backpacker knows the value of scoring a stunning spot in the National Forest or on BLM land where you can pitch a tent, have the place all to yourself, and can take it all in for free .

Wild camping is a little different in Europe. It’s not like Mont Blanc Massif is just one big clump of public land where you can pitch tents as you please. Wild camping rules are different in all 3 countries.

France is the best for wild camping and overall they are pretty lax about where you pitch a tent. Usually, there are even designated free camping spots along the Tour du Mont Blanc marked with signs of “Aire de Bivouac.” Many, but not all, of these designated wild camping spots even have a water source and toilets.

When it comes to Italy and Switzerland, wild camping is pretty much illegal. Technically, the rule is that you may wild camp if you are over 2500 meters in elevation and you are setting up camp at sunset and packing up at sunrise. Except for Fenetre d’Arpette, there aren’t spots on the TMB that are above 2500 meters. I know some people try their luck on this if they’re pitching their tent at dusk but in general, don’t expect to find any wild camping in Italy.

In all 3 countries , you can pitch a tent on private land with the owner’s consent. For example, I know people often camp at the Le Peute dairy farm in Switzerland and we wild camped on the property of Col de Balme with consent from the refuge owner.

I recommend staying in a hotel in Chamonix though before your hike so you can get a good nights sleep before starting this incredible adventure.

Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Spots

Chamonix campgrounds, camping les arroles.

Price: 4.40 for tent, 7.10 per adult Amenities: Toilets, free showers, charging station, picnic tables, dishwashing stations

This campground was awesome because of the price and proximity to Chamonix Center. The showers were super warm and I liked the community feel of the campground.

Camping Les Arroles, Chamonix, Start of the TMB

When you camp here, and at most campgrounds in Chamonix Valley, you’ll be given a guest pass which gives you free access to public transportation. Be sure to hold onto this for later use at the end of the TMB.

Bonus: The campground has a luggage office. This is great if you’re doing the TMB as an add-on to a longer European trip and you have other luggage you don’t need on the trial.

Other campgrounds nearby:

  • Camping de la Mer de Glace: 5 Minutes train ride North of Chamonix, free train pass included
  • Camping Les Marmottes: 5-minute train ride south of Chamonix
  • Camping des Deux Glaciers: 5-minute train ride south of Chamonix

Camping on Stage 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

Camping bellevue.

Distance: Kilometer 0, Les Houches Price: 7.50 per adult Amenities: Toilets, free showers, charging station

If for some reason you want to camp in Les Houches instead of Chamonix this is a fine option. There are grocery stores, bakeries, and restaurants nearby.

Campground: Camping Bellevue Distance: Kilometer 0 Price: 7.50 per adult Amenities: Toilets, free showers, charging station

Camping on Stage 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Camping le pontet.

Distance: Kilometer 18 Price: 4.40 for tent, 5.50 per adult Amenities: Toilets, free showers, dishwashing station, laundry facilities, restaurant and small grocery store on site

While we did not stay here personally since it was too early our day, we did go right by it and it seemed like a really nice campground.

If you’re doing a classic stage 1 this is a great first night. Note that the campground is 2 km further south from town. You have to get on a bus to get there. If you need food and supplies, get them before you go to the campground though there is a small restaurant and store there.

If 18 kilometers seems like a long day you, can cut out the first 2 km with the free shuttle in Les Contamines. It picks up every 30 minutes or so in front of the Office of Tourism in Contamines and drops you off right at the campground. The shuttle continues all the way to Notre Dame de la Gorge. You could even hop back on that shuttle in the morning to skip relatively boring road walking however, it only cuts off one kilometer.

The Tourism Office has charging outlets and is right across the street from a grocery store, bakery, and water fountain making it also a really good place to get stock up if you are going to continue on past Camping le Pontet.

Wild Camping near Nant Borrant

Distance: Kilometer 23 Price: Free Amenities: Water supply, possibly toilets, close to Nant Borrant

Nant Borrant is a 1.5-hour walk from Les Contamines (shorter if you ride the free shuttle) and about 15 minutes past this refuge there is a designated wild camping area marked with a sign on the left-hand side of the trail.

Stage 2 from Les Contamines to Les Chapieux, TMB

There is a water supply about 200 meters from the tent site at the trail junction. The sign said there were toilets but I didn’t see any (there is a forest though). It’s pretty but not the most stunning campsite. Easy to get dinner at Nant Borrant before making camp.

Wild Camping at Refuge de la Balme

Distance: Kilometer 26 Price: Free Amenities: Toilets, sinks, water supply, access to Chalet Refuge de la Balme

Twice we almost stopped at prior campsites just before this spot but we pushed on and I’m so glad we did. We ended up scoring one of the most beautiful campsites I had ever seen.

Tent view from Chalet Refuge de la Balme on the Tour du Mont Blanc stage 2

Even though the campsite felt super remote and isolated, you still had access to public toilets with sinks and a water fountain.

I’d recommend having your food here or eating at Nant Borrant, although the food is not very good at this Refuge.

Free Camping in Les Chapieux

Distance: Kilometer 34 Price: Free Amenities: Toilets, sinks, water supply, restaurants nearby

There is a free camping area at the Tourist Office in town. I’ve heard mixed things about camping here. Some say it’s beautiful and some say it’s too loud and busy but it’s the only option in Les Chapieux for camping.

There are a few restaurants for dinner and a small shop for basic groceries and supplies.

Camping on Stage 3: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

Stage 3 is a very difficult place to find camping. Technically, the next designated camping spot isn’t until Val Veni which is 6 hours away. Getting to that campground requires taking the bad weather alternate route which is understandable in bad weather but trust me when I say the classic stage 4 route is one off the most beautiful sections of the entire TMB!

Wild camping near Refuge des Mottets

Distance: Kilometer 40-44 Price: Free Amenities: None

Refuge Des Mottets is very clear that they do not allow wild camping anywhere near the refuge.

Refuge des Mottets on Tour du Mont Blanc

The management did however tell us that you can camp up toward Col de la Seigne. They didn’t exactly say where and you probably don’t want to sleep on a exposed mountain pass so I’d say to look for a spot about 20 minutes from the refuge.

It’s not recommended to camp here in bad weather.

Wild camping at Rifugio Elisabetta

Distance: Kilometer 49 Price: Free Amenities: Water supply

I’ve heard from a few people that there is a designated wild camping spot near Elisabetta but I did not see an obvious spot.

At this point in the day, we had combined stages 1 and 2 in one day so we were desperate for a comfy bed and decided to just pay for beds at Rifugio Elisabetta since they had availability.

Rifugio Elisabetta, stage 3 of Tour du Mont Blanc

I think if the refuge is fully booked, they would allow you to set up your tent and wild camp nearby because there are so few options for campers on stage 3.

When all else fails, see Val Veni below.

Camping on Stage 4. + 5: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Again for stages 4 and 5, there are no designated campgrounds on the main TMB. Your options are similar to stage 3: wild camp if you’re desperate and discreet, opt for a refuge for one night, or bypass part of stage 4/5 to make it to the next designated campground (not recommended as this is one of the best parts of the tour).

Also, be sure that you stock up on food and supplies Courmayeur . The next grocery store isn’t until La Fouly, Switzerland.

Val Veni Campgrounds

Distance: Kilometer 53 (Alt Route) Price: 5.00 for a tent, 7.50 per adult Amenities: Toilets, showers, laundry, bar/restaurants, small food shop

When all else fails on stage 3, the nearest campground, Aiguille-Noire, and Camping La Sorgente can be found an hour from Elisabetta on the bad weather alternate route. If necessary, you can hop on a bus starting in La Visialle, 40 minutes from Elisabetta.

The campgrounds here are great but it’s a long day of hiking for most and you’ll be missing the beauty of the classic stage 4.

Vel Ferret Campgrounds

Distance: Kilometer 67, 15-minute bus ride from Courmayeur Price: 4.50 for tent, 7.50 per adult Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, laundry, dishwashing station, small food shop

While there are no campgrounds in Courmayeur, there are many campgrounds in Val Ferret. We stayed at Camping Grandes Jorasses and loved it. There is Camping Tronchey just 2 bus stops further.

Set in the forest and beneath another large glacier, this was a perfect campground for us for the night. Hot showers were €0.50 per 2 minutes and the showers were as expected at most campgrounds, basic but clean enough.

Val Ferret Campgrounds, Italy, TMB

The Val Ferret campgrounds are a 15-minute bus ride from Courmayeur. Bus tickets cost €2 and can be purchased from the tour office and they’ll tell you which bus to get on.

If you stay here, be sure to come prepared with food to any of these campgrounds. Don’t leave Courmayeur without stocking up with enough food for a few days. There won’t be any grocery stores until you reach La Fouly and since it’s in Switzerland, everything will be significantly more expensive than if you buy it in Courmayeur. There’s also an ATM in town if you need cash for refuges.

Note that Courmayeur has siesta from noon to 3 pm-ish and you won’t be able to re-supply at this time but trust me, you’ll be happy to head into stage 6 with enough food to last a few days.

From the campgrounds in the Val Ferret, you can easily rejoin the main TMB route right across the street from Notre Dame de Guerison. From Camping Grandes Jorasses, you just walk down the main road 5 minutes and you’ll see the obvious trail signs and a bridge.

Wild camping before Bonatti

Distance: Kilometer 77 Price: Free Amenities: None

Like all wild camping in Italy, I’d only recommend this as a place to pitch your tent near sunset and be out by sunrise.

About an hour before you reach Rifugio Bonatti, there are many flat places where you could pitch a tent for the night and you’ll even have an amazing view of the Grandes Jorasses, Mont Blanc, and Val Ferret + Val Veni.

Alt Stage 5 of Tour du Mont Blanc, Italy side

The area right around the ruins perhaps 30 minutes before Bonatti is probably the most ideal spot, terrain-wise.

Note: It is technically illegal to wild camp here. Use your discretion when deciding to camp here.

Camping on Stage 6 + 7: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Wild camping on grand col ferret.

Distance: Kilometer 90 Price: Free Amenities: None

Remember, Switzerland does not allow wild camping unless you’re above 2500 meters. Technically, Grand Col Ferret is at 2537 meters which means you could in theory camp at the summit.

Though it wouldn’t be at 2500 meters, as you descend into the Switzerland side of the Col there are many places where you could probably pitch a tent. This is only a good last resort option, not a good place to spend the evening.

Note, it is technically illegal to camp here. Use your discretion to decide on camping here.

Camping Des Glaciers

Distance: Kilometer 100, 6 hours from Bonatti Price: 8.00 per adult Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, dishwashing station, common area, free wifi, small food shop

We didn’t stay here but we walked right past this campsite. This campground sits right on the TMB just after passing through town. It has all the facilities.

Camping Les Rocailles

Distance: Kilometer 115, 4.5 hours from La Fouly Price: 16.00 for a tent, 8.00 per adult Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, dishwashing station, picnic area

After La Fouly, the next campground isn’t until Champex. The campground is on the far end of town but it’s not far if you want to walk back into town in the morning for groceries or pastries. The campground is expensive but there’s not much of an option unless you’re willing to take a chance with wild camping on alt stage 8 (see below).

The town of Champex is nice and I do wish we had spent more time here regardless of the camping expense.

Champex camping, Tour du Mont Blanc, Swiss Alps

In Champex there’s a store to resupply if necessary. There is also a great deal at the bakery nearby where you can get a breakfast buffet of bread, cheese, salami, jam, and a few pastries for 12 francs which is pretty good for Switzerland.

Camping on Stage 8 + 9: Champex to Tre le Champ

Relais d’arpette.

Distance: Kilometer 117 via alt stage 8, 45 min from Champex Price: 13.50 per adult Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, water, picnic area, access to restaurant/bakery, and to-go lunch

If you plan on taking alternative stage 8, you can opt to push on another 45 minutes to stay here.

Tour du Mont Blanc alt stage 8 via Fenetre d'Arpette, Swiss Alps

It’s still expensive but it’s a little bit more scenic, quaint, and has nice camping facilities including hot showers. This refuge has a restaurant and bakery and you can also request to pay for a to-go lunch to the next day.

Wild Camping at Fenetre d’Arpette

Distance: Kilometer 120 via alt stage 8, 1.5 hours from Champex Price: Free Amenities: None, 4 hours from the next food and water source (requires filtration)

Remember that while you are in Switzerland, you are allowed to camp above 2500 meters. Fenetre d’Arpette is the highest point on the TMB and does lie above 2500 meters but I’m not going to recommend for you to sleep at the summit. Besides the fact that a pass is way too exposed for tent camping, there is nowhere you could set up a tent. Instead, I recommend to wild camp in the grassy meadows just above the treeline but before you get to the rocky boulder field.

Tour du Mont Blanc alt stage 8 via Fenetre d'Arpette, Swiss Alps

Please note that while this is a perfectly suitable place to wild camp and no one probably cares as long as you leave no trace, you are not technically above 2500 meters and would breaking the law so camp here at your discretion.

There are no amenities and there is no access to water here. The next water source isn’t until you reach the river at Chalet du Glacier and drinking the water there requires water filtration due to farming runoff.

Hotel Col de La Forclaz

Distance: Kilometer 131 (via main route), 5-6 hours from Champex (depending on route) Price: 6.00 for tent, 8.00 per adult Amenities: Toilets, showers, water, picnic area, restaurant/bakery

This hotel has camped out in its grassy meadows. The guidebook gives the impression that Col de la Forclaz is an actual village when in reality it’s pretty much just a col.

The hotel has facilities but eating at the hotel is very pricey as are the few small stores nearby that have food. The hotel has breakfast for 16 francs and half board for 43 francs (I believe this is in addition to the initial cost of the tent and persons).

The camping is scenic though. Come with your own food and cooking supplies and you’re set.

Distance: Kilometer 133 (via main route), 7-8 hours from Champex (depending on route) Price: 6.00 per person Amenities: Toilets, water, picnic area with shelter

If you’re taking classic stage 9, you can camp at Le Peuty, 45 minutes past Forclaz. It’s not actually at Refuge Le Peuty but it’s very close. Similar to French free camping areas, it’s a very basic camping spot with water and toilets but not much else.

Refuge Les Grands

Distance: Kilometer 134 (via alt stage 8 + 9), 5-6 hours from Champex (via alt 8) or 2 hours from Forclaz Price: Free Amenities: Toilet, water supply

Alt stage 9, Tour du mont blanc

This self-catering refuge is only manned occasionally and more often than not, access to the inside isn’t available.

When we happened to be passing by it was being operated by members of the local mountain club of sorts. They told us that you’re welcome to pitch a tent but there isn’t much room for more than a single, small tent making this more of a backup camping spot than a planned place to stay.

There is water available here as well as a toilet (with an amazing view btw). When it is open, you can use the refuge kitchen for a small fee.

Refuge du Col de Balme

Distance: Kilometer 137 (via main TMB), 3 hours from Col de la Forclaz (via main TMB) 3 hours from Chalet du Glacier (via alt stage 9) Price: Free Amenities: Toilet, access to refuge

Not to be confused with Refuge de la Balme at the start, this refuge is located at the border between Switzerland and France and turned out to be our most spectacular night on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Upon arrival, we asked the owner if we could camp on the property and he said normally no because it’s too windy on the col but it was abnormally clear that day so he allowed us to.

Col de Balme camping and refuge, Tour du mont blanc

It was the most stunning camping spot we experienced on the whole Tour Du Mont Blanc, even more stunning than Refuge de la Balme. From the col, you have a perfect view of Chamonix Valley below and beautiful Mont Blanc, plus, it’s especially beautiful to see this view at sunrise and sunset.

Col de Balme camping and refuge, Tour du mont blanc

While there are no facilities specifically for tent campers here, the owner of the refuge was super nice and if you’re allowed to camp at the refuge, more than likely they will allow you to use the restrooms, get coffee there in the morning, and of course, you can pay to be apart of dinner if you arrive early enough in the day.

Wild camping at Col de Posettes

Distance: Kilometer 139, 30 min from Col de Balme Price: Free Amenities: None

On the occasion that it’s very windy on the Col de Balme if you look down to Chamonix Valley and to the right, you’ll see the main TMB trail and a lower col, Col de Posettes.

Col de Posettes, Tour du mont blanc stage 10, French alps

This is another good spot to wild camp however there are no facilities nor are you anywhere close to facilities. The nearest food and water are in Tre-le-Champ about 2 hours further down the trail.

A Quick Note on France Camping

Now that you’ve entered France, again, wild camping is once again more lax. I will mention a few spots I’m pretty certain you can wild camp at however there is a big gray area I haven’t mentioned.

The only places I know that you definitely cannot wild camp in this section of France are at Aiguillette des Posettes and at Lac Blanc itself.

Before the summit of Aiguillette des Posettes, such as at Col de Posettes mentioned earlier, you can wild camp but once you reach the summit and descend from the summit, some signs specifically say no camping.

Auberge la Boerne

Distance: Kilometer 144, 3 hours from Col de Balme Price: 8.00 (unclear whether this is per person or per tent) or 35.00 per person for half-board camping (camping, dinner, and breakfast) Amenities: Toilets, water, showers (possibly additional cost), wifi, access to all meals served at the refuge, small groceries

By the time we stumbled into Tre-le-Champ on our 7th and final day on the tour, we were all out of food and were starving. In a way, it was good though because otherwise, we never would’ve known about this incredible restaurant/refuge/camping spot.

I know I’ve said multiple times that the food is delicious at all the refuges but trust me when I say, that Auberge la Boerne has the best food on the whole Tour. Here you can get real, traditional food and specialty cuisine of the French Alps.

Tre le Champ, Tour du mont blanc stage 10, French alps

Besides the food, I loved the outdoor patio that we dined at within a small courtyard. The courtyard is surrounded by about a dozen buildings with a small meadow in the center. I loved how the refuge and restaurant had a friendly staff, a tight-knit community of locals, and how it’s a major hub for all TMB hikers passing. We ran into multiple hikers we had met earlier on in the trek.

Tre le Champ, Tour du mont blanc stage 10, French alps

So back to camping, I later found out that this amazing restaurant allows camping in the beautiful meadow for a small fee. If you camp here you have the option to pay for dinner (17 per person), breakfast the next morning (10 per person), and to-go lunch (10 per person). There is a water fountain just outside the courtyard and they allow you to use the toilets. I’m not sure because we didn’t stay here personally, but they may even allow you to use the showers.

Camping du Glacier d’Argentiere

Distance: Detour from Kilometer 144, 40 minutes from Tre-le-Champ Price: 4.00 for tent, 5.90 per adult Amenities: Toilets, water, hot showers, laundry facilities, charging station, bar, restaurant, morning bread, short walk to more shops and stores of Argentiere

Going to camp in Argentiere is the more popular option for many TMB campers mostly because it’s a full-amenity campground and if you need to re-supply before stage 10 and 11, Argentiere is the only place with a full-scale grocery store.

Going to Argentiere requires taking a 30-40 minute detour by foot.

Note: Hang onto that unlimited train/bus pass you may have received for free in Chamonix Valley campgrounds. You can cut 10 minutes out of this detour by getting on the train.

Camping du Glacier is known as a very popular mountaineering take-off point so it can be a cool vibe at this campground.

Camping on Stages 10 + 11

Wild camping near lac blanc.

Distance: Kilometer 149, 3 hours from Tre-le-Champ Price: Free Amenities: Water from the lake (requires filtration), 15 minutes from Lac Blanc Refuge

We had initially planned on camping at Lac Blanc after reading that you could online. I’m guessing that between 2017 and the summer of 2019 you could since the refuge was not operational and not under any ownership. The refuge was bought back again in the summer of 2019 so when we arrived in September of 2019, we were surprised to find that you couldn’t camp there after talking to the refuge managers.

Lac Blanc bound, Tour du Mont Blanc Stage 10

While you cannot camp at Lac Blanc or anywhere within sight of the Lac Blanc refuge, you can camp at Lacs de Chéserys which is just 15 minutes before you get to Lac Blanc. This cluster of lakes is almost equally as spectacular as Lac Blanc.

Wild camping near La Flégère

Distance: Kilometer 150, 3 hours from Tre-le-Champ Price: Free Amenities: Water from lake or stream (requires filtration), probably water and toilets at La Flégère

Whether you’re on the main TMB or the trail from Lac Blanc, the grassy slopes before La Flégère make for dozens of easy and super scenic places to pitch a tent for the night.

Tour du mont blanc stage 10, French alps

Some spots are rocky and some that are grassy so it will take a little bit of looking to find a great spot. From most spots, you’ll have an amazing view of Grandes Jorasses and/or Mont Blanc.

Again, this is more traditional wild camping and there are no amenities. There is the water source of lakes and streams but I recommend a filter.

Wild camping near Le Brevent

Distance: Kilometer 161, 3.5 hours from La Flégère Price: Free Amenities: Water from the lake (requires filtration), access to food at Le Brevent or Refuge de Bellechat, each about an hour away

Last but not least, if you want one last night on the trail, it is possible to camp in the area between Le Brevent and Refuge de Bellechat.

Stage 11 of the Tour du Mont Blanc from Le Brevent to Les Houches

Note that I doubt you are allowed to camp within the boundary of Le Brevent ski resort but there is no sign dictating where that boundary starts and ends. To be on the safe side, I’d recommend wild camping at least 30 minutes after Le Bravent. In addition, camping is not allowed at Refuge de Bellcahat and as the rule usually goes, you can’t be within sight of the refuge.

There are no amenities nor are you close to amenities here so come prepared if you are going to try and wild camp here.

I really hope this helped you with any doubts, concerns, and questions you had about camping on the TMB! If you loved the blog and found it helpful, we’d love if you pinned it to one of your Pinterest boards, shared it on social media, or purchased your supplies through our TMB Pack List links because we think Karma is rad 🤙

One more thing if you choose to camp, check out where we stayed in Chamonix after the TMB . It was a perfect way to end an epic trip!

If I left anything unanswered or if you have a specific question, let us know in the comments section below.

Related TMB Resources:

  • Ultimate Planning Guide to the TMB
  • Tour du Mont Blanc Pack List
  • How to Hike the TMB in 7 Days: Fastpacking Guide
  • 35 Photos to Inspire You to Hike the TMB
  • Where to Stay In Chamonix for the Tour du Mont Blanc
  • Travel Insurance for the TMB

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Monday 6th of February 2023

Thank you so much for the excellent overview! Two questions. Did you need to secure any permit for camping? Also were the campsites reserved, or first come-first serve?

Friday 10th of February 2023

No permits and it was all first come first serve. But that was a few years ago and i don't know if that changed with covid rules

Sunday 15th of January 2023

hey, did you have to pre book any campsites?

Tuesday 17th of January 2023

No, all the campsites are just large fields so there aren't specific sites or a lack of space.

Wednesday 24th of August 2022

When in September was this? beginning or end ? I am thinking at starting TMB in 18 September.

It was the first week of Sept

Stacey Tuers

Friday 28th of January 2022

Where can I purchase a map online?

Thursday 3rd of February 2022

I'm not sure that you can get the exact topographical map that we used but Amazon has a similar one https://amzn.to/3AWHWy3

TMBtent

Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc [2024 Update]

Have you ever wanted to spend 11 days in the world’s most majestic mountains, walking on rugged trails by day, indulging in delicious food by night, and sleeping under the stars?

Welcome to the Tour du Mont Blanc.

This trek is truly incredible any way you approach it, but we’re here to tell you that bringing your tent makes the experience so much more rewarding. This post has everything you need to prepare for your Tour du Mont Blanc camping adventure.

Water and steep mountains on stage 4 of the TMB

In This Guide:

  • About the Hike
  • Why You Should Camp on the TMB

Campsites on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Wild camping on the tour du mont blanc.

  • How to Find Your Campsites

What to Pack for Camping on the TMB

  • Food and Drink while Camping

Budgeting and Money

Everything you need to camp on the tmb – all in one place..

Simplify your Tour du Mont Blanc camping adventure by getting the resource specifically designed for camping along the Tour du Mont Blanc . From custom itineraries to maps created specifically for campers, our Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc is the ultimate resource to help you plan your trip.

When you purchase a guide, you’ll get instant access to all the information you need to plan your trip in our planning portal as well as in a downloadable PDF eGuide.

  • Planning Portal Access: Get instant access to our online trip planning portal complete with 9-day, 11-day, and 12-day TMB Camping itineraries.
  • Campground Insights:  You’ll get detailed information for every camping option along the route, including amenities, nearby services, transportation, and helpful area maps.
  • GPS Maps:  Every guide comes with custom GPS maps for three different itineraries. Download the maps for offline use so you’ll always be able to find your next campsite.
  • Expert Advice:  Find detailed maps for every stage, accommodation & booking information, packing lists, and much more.

camping le tour chamonix

We’re confident this is the best resource available for camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc.  Pick up your guide below and if you’re not satisfied for any reason we’ll give you a full refund!

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About the Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc takes trekkers through France, Italy, and Switzerland on one of the most spectacular trails in the world . Typically completed in 11 stages , the route circumnavigates  Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. The trail passes through seven unique and beautiful valleys, where charming hamlets and regional delicacies abound. Between the valleys, the route traverses rugged mountain landscapes and stunning high alpine scenery .

The TMB is one of the most popular long-distance treks in Europe and is considered to be a classic walk that belongs on any passionate hiker’s bucket list. Along the way most hikers stay in refuges , high mountain huts that provide basic accommodation and meals. However, in recent years it has become increasingly difficult to secure bookings at these huts, making camping along the route very appealing!

To get an overview of camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc check out our virtual fly-through video below:

Why You Should Camp on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc opens a world of possibilities that simply aren’t possible if you’re staying in mountain refuges along the route. We outline our top three reasons to camp below:

#1 – Avoid the refuge booking craze!

Every year it seems like booking refuges along the TMB gets more and more difficult. Nowadays, unless you have a full itinerary ready to go in early October, your chance of securing beds at all of your preferred refuges is slim to none. So, you’re either stuck with settling for an alternate itinerary or paying a tour company to arrange your bookings.

Camping solves this problem!

When you camp on the TMB, you don’t need to worry about making any reservations. You can simply show up and pitch your tent at any of the campgrounds along the route.

#2 – Add flexibility!

When you camp, you add a layer of flexibility that isn’t possible when staying in refuges. Even if you run into bad weather, twist an ankle, or end up hiking slower or faster than anticipated, you won’t have any flexibility if you’ve booked your night’s stay at a refuge. You simply must make it there or forgo your reservation.

However, campers have ultimately flexibility by not only avoiding the need for reservations, but also having everything they need with them. Simply find a safe and legal place to camp, and you’ll be all set.

#3 – Save money!

The last one is maybe the most obvious, but it’s still worth mentioning. Camping is significantly less expensive compared to staying in refuges along the Tour du Mont Blanc. Yes, you won’t enjoy some of the creature comforts that the refuges provide, but you’ll be able to complete the trek on a much smaller budget!

There are many campgrounds along the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit, and it is possible to hike the entire trek and camp every night. The following section covers all of the campgrounds on the route as well as some of the more popular wild camping locations. We’ve also created the helpful map below so you can see the location of each camping option:

For those interested in wild camping on the TMB, be sure to check out the section later in this article that outlines the rules and regulations. We generally recommend against wild camping outside of sanctioned areas, as this leads to all sorts of negative impacts on the environment.

Our Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc has three of the best camping itineraries for the TMB. It also has all of the information you need to plan your own TMB trip in your tent.

Get Your FREE TMB Campground List

Wondering where you can camp along the TMB? This downloadable list has all of the campgrounds along the route, plus a few wild camping spots too. It’s the perfect tool to help you start planning your adventure.

List of campgrounds on the TMB

Your TMB Campsite List will be emailed to you shortly. 

Les Houches & Chamonix

The Tour du Mont Blanc officially begins in the town of Les Houches, which is about 15 minutes by bus from Chamonix. The bus is easy to use and runs frequently , so you can stay in either town the night before starting your trek.

Campers will be spoiled with choices when it comes to campgrounds in the area. Here are our recommendations for the best places to pitch your tent in both Chamonix and Les Houches, as well as the services available at the campgrounds and nearby.

Camping Les Arolles (Chamonix)

Washing area, toilets & hot showers, bus connections available.

Camping Les Arolles in Chamonix.

There are several campgrounds in the Chamonix Valley, but Camping Les Arolles is the only camping option within the actual town of Chamonix. If you prefer the convenience of being able to walk from your tent to shops, restaurants, and other amenities, this is your best bet.

If you don’t mind riding the bus to get to things, there are several more campgrounds in Les Bossons, which is on the bus route between Chamonix and Les Houches. Camping Les Arolles is nice, but it can get a bit crowded in peak season. Try to get there early in the afternoon to snag a good pitch.

  • Services at Camping Les Arolles: Free wifi, washing area, electronics charging, toilets, and hot showers.
  • Nearby: Chamonix has multiple grocery stores and outdoor retailers, bus stops, a train station, post office, several bars, restaurants, and bakeries, laundry facilities, and pharmacies.

Map of campgrounds at the start of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Camping Bellevue (Les Houches)

camping le tour chamonix

In Les Houches, camping is available at the Bellevue Campsite which is located at the base of the cable car of the same name. This is your only camping option in Les Houches. The campground is also right at the start of the trail, so you can get an early start on your first day.

This makes for a good option if you prefer the quieter village of Les Houches to busier Chamonix. The camping area is large and flat, making for a comfortable place to pitch your tent.

However, be warned that there is almost no shade at Camping Bellevue, so it can get a bit hot on summer afternoons.

  • Services at Camping Bellevue: The campground has basic bathroom facilities and places to charge electronics. 
  • Nearby: Les Houches has several bars, restaurants, ATMs, a small outdoors store where you can purchase stove fuel, a post office, and a grocery store.  There is a bus that runs frequently to and from Chamonix, which has several outdoor retailers and shops that will provide you with anything you may have forgotten to pack. 

Map showing the camping options in Les Houches on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Refuge de Miage Wild Camping

Drinking water, public toilets.

Map of camping near Refuge de Miage.

If you’ve taken the Col de Tricot alternate route on the first stage, it is possible to camp adjacent to the lovely Refuge de Miage. This is a beautiful place to pitch your tent, with stunning views of the surrounding remote valley.

Drinking water is available nearby and there are also public restrooms available for your use.

You can also purchase food and drinks from the refuge, just don’t count on being able to get dinner as that is typically reserved for guests only.

Les Contamines Region

Upon reaching Les Contamines, most campers will prefer to pitch their tent at Camping Le Pontet , just past the town of Les Contamines. This is the traditional stopping point for this stage, and it gives you better access to services and amenities, both at the campground and in the nearby town.

However, if you’d like to cover even more ground on stage one and you’d prefer a site that is more similar to wild camping, there is also the option of continuing on to Nant Borrant or even further to Refuge de la Balme .

Campgrounds near Les Contamines on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Camping Le Pontet (Les Contamines)

Bar & restaurant.

Tents at Camping Le Pontet in Les Contamines.

This campground is located about 40 minutes past the town of Les Contamines. You can continue on the TMB trail to reach Camping Le Pontet, or when the trail forks you can veer left to climb briefly uphill to reach the town.

When you reach the edge of town, descend back down to the trail and walk onward to the campground. While you have to walk a bit further to reach the campground, it is right on the TMB and you’ll have a head start the next morning! 

  • Services: This campground has toilets, sinks (with potable water), warm (not hot) showers, a café/bar, places to charge electronics, and a covered area for cooking.  
  • Nearby: Les Contamines has bars, restaurants, shops, and an ATM. We highly recommend stopping in town for a cheese plate and a Picon Biere (beer mixed with the famous French orange liqueur, Picon) en route to the campground!

Refuge Nant Borrant Bivouac

Water supply, near refuge.

camping le tour chamonix

If you continue walking a short way past the Nant Borrant Refuge, you’ll see some legal wild camping spots on the left hand side of the trail.  The camping area is marked by a sign reading “bivouac” and you can spend the night here free of charge.

There is also a water source about 200 meters from the camping area and you’re also adjacent to a small river which can be filtered for drinking water.

  • Services: Toilet
  • Nearby: You can fill up on drinking water at the refuge. There are no other services near this camping area.

Refuge de la Balme Bivouac

Hiking trail on the way to Refuge de la Balme.

Refuge de la Balme is located another 1.2 miles past the Nant Borrant camping area. Hikers are welcome to camp for free near the refuge. Check in with the refuge staff before pitching your tent.

This is a beautiful campsite with stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks. If you have the energy, we recommend camping here as opposed to the bivouac area near Nant Borrant.

  • Services: Toilets, potable water, sinks, and meals are all available at the refuge.
  • Nearby: There are no services near Refuge de la Balme.

Les Chapieux & Surrounding Area

The traditional stopping point at the end of stage two is the lovely little hamlet of Les Chapieux, where free camping is available in the field next to the tourist office. However, if you want to stop earlier, it is possible to camp outside of the Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme.

Map of campgrounds near Les Chapieux on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme Bivouac

Col du Bonhomme

This refuge is located just past the top of Col du Bonhomme, meaning that in good weather this could be a glorious place to pitch your tent with sweeping views of the surrounding area. Hikers are allowed to set up camp for free just outside the refuge. However, in cold/windy/rainy/stormy conditions, this would be a pretty miserable place to camp, given its exposed location.

  • Services: Toilets, showers, electronics charging, potable water, meals for purchase.
  • Nearby: There are no shops or services until you reach Les Chapieux.

Les Chapieux Free Camping

Bar & restaurant nearby.

Camping in Les Chapieux on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

When you descend into tiny and charming Les Chapieux, you can’t miss the large grassy field on the edge of town in which you can pitch your tent for free.

The folks in the tourist office can provide you with tickets and information for the bus that travels to Refuge Des Mottets .  This bus allows you to avoid the one of the TMB’s longest sections of road walking (about 2 hours’ worth) on your next day.  

  • Services: The tourist office, located in the center of the camping area, has bathrooms with sinks (cold water, potable) and toilets.
  • Nearby:   There is a small shop across the road from the campsite that sells delicious local cheeses, snacks, and hiker basics like instant noodles, trail mix, and some toiletries. Additionally, the Auberge de la Nova, just down the road from your campsite, is a nice option for drinks, snacks, or dinner.

Camper in their tent in Les Chapieux.

Rifugio Elisabetta & Val Veny

The traditional stage three of the TMB poses some problems for campers. You cannot camp at Rifugio Elisabetta and there are no towns or campgrounds anywhere near the rifugio where you can pitch a tent. So, what’s a camper to do?

The best alternative is to head to one of the three campgrounds in the Val Veny, just off the main TMB route. This alternative requires you to hike further than the traditional stage three stopping point (about 4-5 miles extra), but much of that walking is easy road walking or gentle downhill trails.

Hikers who choose this option will leave the traditional TMB route and descend into the Veny Valley, where they can walk and/or catch the bus to one of the three campgrounds in the area.

For more in-depth details on how to plan your itinerary around these campgrounds, you’ll want to get our Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc .

Map of camping options near Rifugio Elisabetta.

Not sure where to camp?

We get it- the options for camping on this section of the TMB can be confusing. You’ll need to utilize alternate routes and/or public transportation in order to make it work, which can be complicated.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Our Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc simplifies your options and provides specific itineraries that allow you to camp on every stage with detailed maps and directions!

Check it out below:

camping le tour chamonix

Camping Aiguille Noire

Camping Aiguille Noire in the Italian Val Veny.

Camping Aiguille Noire is our top pick for camping in the Val Veny, primarily for its convenience to the trail as well as public transit. However, this is also a wonderful place to spend the night with great facilities such as a well-stocked food shop, bar/restaurant, and well-equipped toilet and shower facilities.

Behind the campground is a link trail that takes you back up to the main Tour du Mont Blanc route and there is also a bus stop right in front of the campground.

  • Services: You’ll find great services at Camping Aiguille Noire including a bar/restaurant, food shop, clean shower block, and free WiFi.
  • Nearby: There is a bus that runs between La Visaille and Courmayeur, and you can catch it from a stop very close to the campgrounds. There are no other services available until you reach Courmayeur.

Camping Hobo

View of Hobo Camping near Courmayeur.

Camping Hobo sits adjacent to Camping Aiguille Noire and is another popular stop for TMB campers. The campground is more basic, but the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, making this a great place to pitch for the night.

You’ll get all the typical amenities you would expect from a full service campground, and it is relatively easy to rejoin the TMB route from here.

  • Services: Camping Hobo has a bar, free WiFi, a place to charge electronics, a small shop, and an indoor common space. There is also on-site laundry.

Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente

Entrance to Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente.

Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente is the least convenient of the three Val Veny campgrounds for Tour du Mont Blanc hikers. It is located further down the valley and off the main road. This makes for a quieter camping experience that is worth considering if you don’t mind a bit of extra walking.

The facilities at La Sorgente are excellent and equivalent to the other campgrounds in Val Veny.

  • Services: Bar/restaurant, free WiFi, clean toilet/shower block, small shop.

Courmayeur Camping Options

There are no campgrounds within the town of Courmayeur .  One option is to treat yourself to a real bed and in Courmayeur, Italy’s iconic mountaineering village.

Alternatively, you can hop on the local bus to reach a number of well-appointed campgrounds in either Val Veny or Val Ferret. We’ve laid out your options below:

Map of campgrounds near Courmayeur, Italy

Option #1: Courmayeur (no camping available)

The first time we hiked the TMB, we decided to splurge on a hotel in the lovely nearby town of La Saxe (just north of Courmayeur), and let me tell you it was worth every penny.  If you’re into cozy, luxurious, and affordable lodging experiences, check out Maison La Saxe .  

This tiny hotel offers top-notch service and a peaceful location with convenient access to the Courmayeur city center.  They also serve up a delicious complimentary breakfast made with all local, high-quality ingredients.  Book Suite #2 for a private roof terrace and breathtaking views of the entire valley.

There are tons of other great accommodation options in Courmayeur and the surrounding towns of Dolonne, La Saxe and Entrèves, but you won’t find any campgrounds in these towns.

Nearby: Courmayeur has restaurants, bars, ATMs, laundry services, outdoor retailers, pharmacies, grocery stores, and a bus stop.  

Image of Courmayeur, Italy

Option #2: Stay in either Val Veny or Val Ferret

If you prefer to camp, you’ll need to catch a bus or hike to one of the campgrounds in either the Val Veny or Val Ferret. Either works fine, just be sure to double check those bus schedules before deciding on one.

For Val Veny, see the campgrounds listed in the previous section, which includes Camping Aiguille Noire, Camping Hobo, or Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente.

If you prefer Val Ferret, we’ve outlined your campground choices below. Be sure to check out The Guide to Camping on the TMB to learn more about these options.

Camping Grandes Jorasses (Val Ferret)

camping le tour chamonix

Camping Grand Jorasses is a good camping option near Courmayeur.  It is about 3.5 miles down the road past Courmayeur in the town of Plampincieux (local bus #924 will take you right there from Courmayeur).  

The campground is in Val Ferret (directly below the TMB route). The staff can give you information about nearby trails that will connect you back with the TMB. 

There is a bar/pizzeria onsite or you can make the trip into Courmayeur for tons of additional options.

  • Services: Bathrooms, sinks, showers, electronics charging, small shop, and a pizzeria/bar. 
  • Nearby: Besides the bus stop, there are no other services available. You’ll need to go into Courmayeur to access shops, ATMs, and other services.

Camping Tronchey (Val Ferret)

Entrance to Camping Tronchey in Italian Val Ferret.

Camping Tronchey is your other option in the Italian Val Ferret. W e highly recommend you stay at Camping Grandes Jorasses instead, as the facilities here are not nearly as nice here . However, it does have a bus stop right in front and is set back a bit further from the main road compared to Grandes Jorasses.

  • Services: Very basic bathroom facilities, small shop .

Camping near Rifugio Bonatti

Unfortunately, there are no sanctioned camping areas between Courmayeur and La Fouly . This creates a challenge for campers, since nearby towns and bus services to alternate campgrounds are limited on this stage. Don’t worry though, we’ve shared all of the options below:

Map of camping options near Rifugio Bonatti.

If you don’t want to sleep indoors at Rifugio Bonatti, Camping Grandes Jorasses, located in Val Ferret, remains the closest and most convenient camping option on this stage of the TMB.

If you really want to camp every night, but don’t want to miss out on too much of the main TMB route, here’s what you can do:

  • Upon completing stage four, take the bus from Courmayeur to one of the camping options (either in Val Veny or Val Ferret) and then ride the bus back to Courmayeur to begin hiking on the morning of stage five.
  • Upon reaching Rifugio Bonatti at the end of stage five, you’ll see a link trail that leads down to Val Ferret, where you can catch the bus or walk to Camping Grandes Jorasses.
  • The next day (stage six), you could take the bus from Camping Grandes Jorasses to the Arp Nouvaz stop, where you’ll be able to connect back to the TMB and hike onwards to La Fouly.

For more details on Camping Grandes Jorasses and Camping Tronchey, see the previous section on camping near Courmayeur.

The Rifugio Bonatti area is another part of the TMB that presents challenges for campers. You’ll need to use link trails and public transportation to get to your campsite, making things a bit tricky.

Camping in La Fouly

Campers will breathe a huge sigh of relief upon getting to this stage. Finally, you don’t have to deal with inconvenient workarounds when it comes to pitching your tent!

With a well-located campground just off the Tour du Mont Blanc route, La Fouly is as easy as can be (at least the camping part…the hiking part is another story!)

Map of camping in La Fouly

Camping des Glaciers

Camping des Glaciers in La Fouly.

Camping des Glaciers might feel a bit hectic at first, but it has plenty of redeeming qualities.  Yes, you’ll be camping with what feels like half of Switzerland’s children, dogs, and RV’s, but you’ll have your pick from several flat and shady sites and the views are dynamite. 

We recommend choosing a spot that borders the river to drown out any ambient noise from your neighbors. The camp office (like most places in the Alps) is closed for a lunch break in the middle of the day, but you can choose a site, set up camp, and use the facilities before registering in the office.  

  • Services: The campground offers hot showers, toilets, sinks (with potable water), electronics charging, and good free wifi.  The office sells a few snacks, stove fuel, and beverages. You can order fresh bread for the morning if you’d like.
  • Nearby: About a ten minute walk from the campground, the town center has a few restaurants, an ATM, and a grocery store.  

camping le tour chamonix

C hampex-Lac

Upon reaching Champex-Lac you’ll have two choices for routes on the following day, which may impact where you camp. The standard Tour du Mont Blanc route travels along the Bovine Alp route, while the challenging alternate Fenetre d’Arpette route takes hikers up and over a difficult pass.

Your first option, Camping les Rocailles in Champex will work for either route, while you may prefer to camping at Relais d’Arpette if you plan to hike the Fenetre d’Arpette.

Map of campgrounds near Champex, Switzerland.

Camping les Rocailles

Camping Les Rocailles in Champex.

Camping Les Rocailles is located on the far end of Champex, past the city center.  When you reach Champex, just remind yourself that you have another 20 minutes of walking before you are really done for the day.  This might help you to avoid the “Are we there yet?” syndrome that can come after a long day of hiking. The good news is that you’ll have a head start on the hike tomorrow.  

This lovely little campground offers three terraces with mostly flat spots to pitch your tent, but not much shade to be found.   If you want to continue on even further to get a head start on the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant the following day, see the alternative option described below. 

Keep in mind you’re in Switzerland, and the prices at Camping les Rocailles reflect that!

  • Services: The campground provides toilets, sinks (with potable water), hot showers, a dishwashing/laundry room, electronics charging, wifi, and an area for drying wet clothes.  The office sells beer, wine, and soda.  
  • Nearby: Champex has a grocery store, cafes, bars, restaurants, outdoor retailers, and an ATM. The lake offers several tranquil and beautiful spots along the shore for relaxing after a long day on your feet. Make sure you stock up on provisions before leaving Champex, as this is the last real town that the TMB passes through directly until the endpoint in Les Houches. 

Relais d’Arpette

Map of Relais d'Arpette

This alternative only makes sense for hikers who are planning on taking the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant the following day, as the Relais d’Arpette campground is not located along the main TMB route.

The campground is reached by continuing about 45 minutes gently uphill past the town of Champex. To find it, simply follow the Fenêtre d’Arpette trail signs. Make sure you stock up on provisions before leaving Champex, however, as this is the last real town that the TMB passes directly through until the endpoint in Les Houches. 

  • Services: Toilets, hot showers, potable water, free wifi, electronics charging, restaurant, and packed lunches available.
  • Nearby: There are no services nearby once you leave Champex.

Col de la Forclaz, Trient & Le Peuty Camping

You have two great options for camping on this stage of the TMB.  You can camp on the terraced field next to Hotel de la Forclaz or pitch your tent on the edge of the tiny hamlet of Le Peuty.

Map of camping options at Col de la Forclaz and Le Peuty

Hotel Col de la Forclaz Camping

Camping area at Hotel Col de la Forclaz.

The camping at Hotel Col de la Forclaz is the more luxurious option of the two available on this stage. Here you’ll have access to toilets and showers, as well as the option to purchase breakfast and/or dinner at the hotel.

There is a small shop where you can pick up snacks and a few essentials. This campsite is also closer to Champex, making for a shorter day of hiking. This option doesn’t make sense for hikers who who take the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant, as they would need to backtrack about half a mile along the main TMB route to reach Hotel de la Forclaz. 

  • Services: Toilets, hot showers, electronics charging, restaurant, and a small shop. Transportation on/off the trail may be possible from here.
  • Nearby:   Besides what’s offered at the hotel, there are no other services in the area.

Le Peuty Camping

Toilets & showers.

Tent at the camping area at Le Peuty on the TMB.

For about half the price of Hotel de la Forclaz, you can camp in the field next to Refuge Le Peuty. Th e facilities are basic, and the simplicity can be a nice change of pace after staying at some of the larger, busier campgrounds along the route .  To reach Le Peuty, simply continue downhill on the trail for another 30-40 minutes past Col de la Forclaz.

Make sure to reference our map when you get close, as the campground is really just an empty field without much signage or information. Just pitch your tent when you get there and someone will stop by in the evening to collect your payment. You can pay in CHF or Euros.  

  • Services:  Potable water (cold), toilets (no TP or soap), sinks, sheltered cooking area with picnic tables, trash and recycling, one outlet, portable showers (hot water is hit or miss), clothesline.
  • Nearby: There is a restaurant at the gite next to the campsite, as well as a few other restaurant offerings in Trient (15 minutes down the road). There are no grocery stores or ATM’s in the area, so stock up before leaving Champex.

Camping at Le Peuty.

Tré-le-Champ & Argentiere

You’ll again have two options for camping near the Tour du Mont Blanc route on this stage: Auberge La Boerne (Tré-le-Champ) is located very close to the TMB route, while Camping du Glacier requires a 25-minute detour down to the town of Argentiere. 

While Auberge la Boerne get points for its proximity to the trail, Camping du Glacier has the advantage of being near a bigger town with more services.  Find more details on each option below.

camping le tour chamonix

Auberge la Boerne (Tré-le-Champ)

Tent area at Auberge la Boerne

This cozy Auberge in Tré-le-Champ offers convenient camping just off the trail. The campground has magnificent views of the Aiguille Verte from its nice grassy pitches. The only downside is that the camping area is small and can get quite crowded during peak season. There is an excellent restaurant onsite, and campers can opt for half-board if they wish. 

  • Services: Toilets, showers, drinking water, restaurant, small shop. 
  • Nearby: There is a train station in nearby Tré-le-Champ (5 minutes from the campground) which you can take to get to Argentiere or Chamonix.

Camping du Glaciers (Argentiere)

The trail into Argentiere.

Camping du Glaciers in Argentière consistently gets excellent reviews.  This is a large campsite with lots of great amenities. To reach the campground, you’ll have to walk an extra 25 minutes off the trail (and then back the next morning), but in exchange you’ll get easy access to a much wider array of amenities in the larger town of Argentière

  • Services: T oilets, hot showers, drinking water, laundry, wifi, a restaurant (which serves breakfast), and a place to purchase snacks and stove fuel.
  • Nearby: Grocery store, ATM, restaurants, a Tourist Office, and bus connections.

Refuge La Flégère & Surrounding Area

There is no official campground on this stage, but it is possible to camp about 100 meters from Refuge La Flégère (ask the refuge staff to show you where to pitch your tent when you arrive). Y ou can also wild camp near Lacs de Chéserys, which is off the main TMB on the route up to Lac Blanc.

If you are unsure where wild camping is permitted in this area, we highly recommend downloading the Chamonix App which has a detailed map of where camping is permitted in this area.

For those camping near Refuge La Flegere, y ou can use the facilities at the refuge or in the cable car station during its open hours.

If you would like to stay at a developed campground or need to access more services, there is also the option of taking the cable car down to the town of Les Praz from La Flégère. 

Map of camping near La Flegere.

Refuge La Flégère Bivouac

camping le tour chamonix

Adjacent to the refuge is a small water reservoir inside a wooden fence. Refuge staff generally permit bivouacking within the fenced in area so long as you set up your tent later in the evening and are packed up early in the morning.

The good thing about wild camping here is that during the daytime you’ll have access to the services at the refuge as well as the adjacent cable car station.

  • Services: Potable water and toilets in the cable car station. Also, you can charge electronics and use the bathroom in the refuge if you have a drink or a meal there.
  • Nearby: There is a café in the cable car station that provides meals, water for purchase, and snacks. If needed, you can ride the cable car down from here to Les Praz to access grocery stores, sporting goods stores, and other modern amenities, but the ticket is quite pricey. Information about the cable car can be found here.

camping le tour chamonix

Camping de la Mer de Glace (Les Praz)

Camping Mer de Glace.

For those who would like to stay at a developed campground or need to access more services, there is the option of taking the cable car down to the town of Les Praz from La Flégère.

Be sure to check ahead of time to make sure the cable car will be running during your hike and to see updated prices . Once you get down to Les Praz, Camping de la Mer de Glace is a 15-minute walk from the cable car station.  In the morning, you’ll need to ride the cable car back up to La Flégère to rejoin the TMB.

  • Services: Toilets, hot showers, electronics charging, free wifi, laundry facilities, covered sitting area, bar, and small food shop.
  • Nearby: There are restaurants, transit links, and a small shop in the town of La Praz.

Where to stay upon completing the TMB

Congratulations! You’ve completed the Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the world’s most beautiful and iconic walks! This is no small feat, as the TMB is a major physical and mental challenge.

It’s time to reward yourself. Hardcore campers can return to one of the campgrounds in the Chamonix Valley, while those looking to reward themselves with the luxuries of the indoor world should check out our recommendations below.

Regardless of where you stay, make sure you take some time to reflect on your journey and toast to your remarkable achievement!

Hotel Helopic & Spa is our top pick in Chamonix for before the Tour du Mont Blanc. You'll find comfortable rooms, spacious guest areas, and the location can't be beat!

  • Spacious Rooms
  • Excellent Spa
  • Easy access to public transport

Heliopic Hotel & Spa

Featuring spacious rooms and an on-site spa, the Heliopic Hotel & Spa is the perfect location to relax after your TMB trek. The central location makes it easy to get to and they have great amenities like free-luggage storage and beautiful common areas.

This is our top-pick in Chamonix for Tour du Mont Blanc trekkers.

Auberge du Manoir – Known for their friendly staff, beautiful rooms, and great location, the Auberge du Manoir is a great option in Chamonix.

Hôtel Le Refuge des Aiglons – The Hotel Le Refuge des Aiglons is located adjacent to the Chamonix Sud bus station, making it an ideal location for the night you arrive in or before you depart Chamonix.

Wild camping along the TMB is a bit complicated. The trail passes through three countries and several local municipalities, each with their own specific rules and regulations. Generally speaking, wild camping may be allowed in France at high altitudes between sunset and sunrise, it may be permitted above 2,500 meters (from dusk until dawn) in Italy, and it is strictly forbidden in Switzerland.

If wild camping in the area near Chamonix, you’ll need to register on the Chamonix App before setting up camp. The app also has a super helpful map that shows where wild camping is allowed, where it’s discouraged, and where it’s outright forbidden.

The good news is that there are many official campsites that are easily accessible along the TMB. While not entirely cheap, we feel it is important to use these facilities whenever they are available in order to give respect to the local communities and the fragile natural environment. Furthermore, there are quite a few opportunities to pitch your tent in free sanctioned wild and semi-wild camp spots along the TMB. If you choose to wild camp outside of these areas, set up after dusk, pack up at dawn, and utilize leave no trace practices.

Sanctioned Wild and Semi-Wild Campsites

  • Chalet Miage (located on the Col de Tricot variant)
  • Refuge Nant Borrant
  • Refuge de la Balme
  • Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme
  • Les Chapieux
  • Refuge la Flégère
  • Inside the Réserve Naturelle des Aiguilles Rouges (7p.m. to 9 a.m.)

Wildflowers on stage 4 of the TMB

Let us help plan your TMB

We’re here to help! We offer comprehensive TMB planning support so you can plan your perfect trip!

In addition to our popular guides, we also offer the following TMB planning services:

GPS Digital Download

GPS files for the entire TMB

Navigate with confidence on the trail

Works with all GPS navigation apps & devices

Custom GPS File

Custom GPS file created for your unique itinerary

Includes all of your accommodations

Confidently navigate using a GPS file designed just for you

Expert Consultation s

1-on-1 video calls

Specifically catered to your questions

Problem-solve your itinerary, bookings, route options, and more!

Why work with us?

camping le tour chamonix

As passionate hikers, we’ve made it our goal to empower you with all of the information you need to have your best TMB experience. 

We’ve helped over 2,500 hikers prepare for their trips, navigate on the trail, and simplify the planning process.

How to Find Your Campsites on the Tour du Mont Blanc

As you’ve no doubt noticed from the list of campground above, not every camping option is located directly along the main Tour du Mont Blanc trail. Several, especially those around Courmayeur and in the Chamonix area, will require you to detour off the main route in order to find camping options.

Not only that, but you’ll also surely be wondering how far you need to hike to get to the next campground, regardless of where you are on the trail.

Our solution to this is to use a GPS navigation app, with our favorite being Gaia GPS.

Our Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc comes with three unique GPS files that contain all of the campground locations along the route along and intel on the best link trails to get to all of the campgrounds that aren’t on the main route. Using our files, your navigation app will look like this:

GPS map showing campgrounds on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

As you can see, you have a clearly labeled route to the campground making it easy to stay on track. Trust us, having a GPS route saved for offline use will be the single best thing you do to make your trek more manageable!

If there is one best reason to purchase our Guide , this is it! Do yourself a favor and make navigating while camping on the TMB that much easier!

Don’t want the full camping guide? No worries, we also offer a basic GPS file for the entire TMB.

Packing for camping on TMB is balancing act between ensuring you have everything you need and not making your experience miserable by carrying too much weight. You’ll have a more extensive packing list compared to hikers staying in refuges and the stakes are a bit higher if you neglect to bring something essential.

We’ve provided a summary below, but for a complete packing list, check out this post .

How much should my pack weigh?

This isn’t easy to answer, since there are a ton of factors that influence how much is too much for any individual hiker. Some things to think about…

  • How fast are you hoping to hike? Generally speaking, lighter=faster
  • Have you completed a multi-day through hike with this specific backpack and this amount of weight before? If not, you should really try to keep it below 25lbs (including water!) 
  • Are you injury-prone or do you have any chronic knee, hip, or back issues? If so, you need to make sure that backpack is below 20lbs!
  • If you have other travel destinations before or after the TMB, you can store your extra luggage in Chamonix. See our logistics article for more on this. 

Caution sign showing a person falling off a cliff.

What type of tent should I bring?

Most of the campgrounds on the TMB will have a level place to pitch your tent and soft ground that will make staking a breeze. However, if you plan on wild camping or staying at any of the bivouac areas described above, you’ll want to bring some heavy duty stakes and a durable ground cover for underneath your tent.

You can expect variable weather at any time of year on the Tour du Mont Blanc, so a good rain fly is an absolute must. Wind is also a concern, so a lower profile tent makes a lot of sense.

Finally, you’ll want something reasonably lightweight as you’ll have to pack it up and carry it across challenging terrain each day on the trail!

In terms of the best brands, we like the backpacking tents offered by MSR, Big Agnes, and Sierra Designs. Our favorite is the MSR Hubba Hubba , which is widely available in both North America and Europe. Check it out below:

The MSR Hubba Hubba 2 is our top pick for a backpacking tent that stands up to any and all conditions. Lightweight, durable, and easy to set-up, this is our favorite backpacking tent!

MSR Hubba Hubba 2-Person Backpacking Tent

How warm should my sleeping bag be?

We often get asked about the warmth rating your sleeping bag should have for the Tour du Mont Blanc. The answer, of course, is that it depends.

Generally speaking, most campers will be comfortable with a sleeping bag in the -5 to 5 degree Celsius range. That will cover most conditions that you’ll encounter while still keeping your pack relatively light.

If you tend to sleep a bit hot, you should be fine with something in the 10 degree Celsius range. Just be sure you have a well insulated sleeping pad.

Top gear picks for TMB Campers

Beyond a good tent and sleeping bag, here are a few specific items that we found really make camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc a lot more enjoyable:

Battery Backup

If you plan on using your phone as a GPS to navigate along the TMB (which we highly recommend!), it’s imperative that it stays charged. Many campgrounds will allow you to charge electronics, but this isn’t a guarantee everywhere. And trust us when we say it gets competitive for access to an outlet!

Our favorite power bank for backpacking is the BioLite Charge 80 , which is super lightweight, designed specifically for use in the outdoors, and charges most phones 4-5 times. This is an essential item for TMB campers in our opinion.

The BioLite Charge 80 is our favorite power bank for hiking. It will charge your phone up to five times and won't weigh down your pack!

BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank

Trekking Poles

These are a total game-changer on a tough trek like the TMB. You (and your knees) will be so glad to have them on steep sections, and this is especially true for campers who are carrying heavier loads.

Merino Wool Socks

Keeping your feet happy is one of the best pieces of advice we can offer for would be TMB trekkers. This means using comfortable boots/trail runners that you have hiked in before and are well broken in.

However, your socks are just as, if not more, important than your boots. Bringing a few pairs of high-quality merino wool socks will be your best defense against blisters and foot issues. For that, we highly recommend Darn Tough socks for their comfort, durability, and lifetime guarantee. These are the only socks we hike in!

Darn Tough makes legendary socks that are known for their durability, odor control, and lifetime warranty. We don't hike in anything else!

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks

A few other honorable mentions…

Puffy down jacket: Lightweight, warm, packable and all you need (it’s not necessary to bring a heavy fleece, too).

Kev Reynolds’ Ciccerone Guide to the TMB : The best guidebook for the Tour du Mont Blanc in our estimation.

Don’t forget travel insurance!

One final item to get squared away before your trip that isn’t on many TMB campers list is travel insurance. We recommend a basic policy for all TMB trekkers to protect you against lost luggage, medical evacuation, and any other issues that can pop up and ruin your trip. We have a full breakdown of what to look for in travel insurance for the TMB here.

Food and Drink for TMB Campers

One of the many wonderful things about the TMB is that you don’t need to worry about carrying (and eating) eleven days’ worth of underwhelming freeze-dried backpacker meals. Due to the fact that the trail passes through many towns and villages, you will be able to resupply every few days. We’ve noted the availability of shops and restaurants at every stop along the route in our Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Make sure you plan accordingly, as you won’t pass shops on every stage.

For budget travelers, it is possible to self-cater and keep your food and drink costs quite reasonable. You’ll need to bring your own camp stove and cooking equipment if you plan on fixing most of your own meals along the TMB. 

Additionally (for those with slightly deeper pockets), many of the hotels, gites, and refuges offer the option of purchasing meals. You can just show up for lunch, but you’ll need to order dinner ahead of time (earlier in the day is typically fine). Not all refuges are able to accommodate campers for dinner.

Whichever way you approach your food and drink strategy, we think you’ll find that trekking in the Alps is every bit as much a culinary delight as a natural one! 

All of the hotels, gites, and campgrounds provide potable water. You will pass through many villages with public drinking fountains, but make sure to plan ahead and carry 1-2 liters of water each day. Due to the presence of agricultural activity near large swaths of the trail, we do not recommend drinking any water from natural streams without filtering it first.

As such, packing a lightweight and packable water filter is always a good idea. We’re partial to the simple, yet effective, Sawyer Squeeze for a great option for campers on the TMB:

The Sawyer Squeeze is a lightweight, packable, and dependable water filter. We've used our backpacking all over the world with great success!

Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System

Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc is a great way to save money on your trip. Not only will you avoid the expense of staying in a refuge each night, you’ll also be able to save money on food and drink by getting many of your meals from shops and small cafes, which tend to be a lot less expensive than refuges.

Below, you can find a few basics to keep in mind in terms of money on the Tour du Mont Blanc:

Cash or Credit?

While an increasing number of accommodation providers, shops, and other services are beginning to accept credit cards, cash is still the primary payment method used along the TMB. It is important to carry enough cash to cover all of your expenses for several days, as  ATMs are infrequent along the trail.

The TMB crosses the borders of three different countries, meaning that you’ll need to switch from using Euros in France to Swiss Francs in Switzerland then back to Euros upon entering Italy. While most places in Switzerland will accept Euros, you’ll get better exchange rates using Francs. 

Typical Costs

Although it has the reputation for being one of the more expensive and luxurious thru-hikes, it is still very possible to hike the TMB on a tight budget (camping helps tremendously with this!) Furthermore, you can even eat delicious foods and drink some tasty beverages without breaking the bank.

The two keys to saving money on the TMB? Lodging and food.

Since you’ve found this camping guide, you’re well on your way to having the first one covered. Camping will save you boatloads of money, and you’ll have a better experience too!

In terms of food, the best thing you can do is to avoid eating meals at restaurants and refuges. Sure, stop for a coffee and a pastry, enjoy a post-hike beer, and definitely pick up some local cheese, but if you cook some of your own meals you will greatly, greatly reduce your overall spending.

Read more: How Much it Cost Us to Hike the TMB

Hikers take in the views from the top of a pass on the TMB

Let Us Make Your TMB Trip A Success

We have used our experience, research, and passion to create effective and trail-tested resources for all TMB hikers. If you plan to trek without the support of a tour company, our resources can help you with the logistics of preparing for the trip of a lifetime.

  • Camping Guide (Our Best Seller): If camping is more your style, our dedicated camping guide is just for you. It includes detailed campground descriptions and camping-specific itineraries.
  • GPS Digital Downloads (2nd Best Seller): Navigate the TMB with ease using our GPS files, updated yearly and compatible with most devices. The files cover the entire trek, including common alternate routes.
  • Guide to the TMB:  Our comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about the TMB. It’s available on our online planning portal and as a downloadable eGuide. The guide includes accommodation recommendations, offline GPS & maps, and video fly-throughs of the trail.
  • Custom Itineraries:  We’ll help you design a TMB itinerary that fits your specific needs, including your trip length, accommodation type, hiking ability, budget, and more.
  • Custom GPS Files:  For a truly personalized experience, we can create a GPS file customized to your specific itinerary, including your accommodations and route preferences.

As passionate hikers, we’ve made it our goal to empower you with all the information you need for your best TMB experience. We’ve helped over 2,500 hikers prepare for their trips, navigate on the trail, and simplify the planning process.

camping le tour chamonix

What’s Next?

If you’ve read our post up to this point, you’re well on your way to having an incredible experience walking the Tour du Mont Blanc.

However, you still have lots of preparation before you’re truly ready! Be sure to read our entire series on the Tour du Mont Blanc to learn everything you’ll need to know to prepare for this incredible adventure!

  • Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List – Be sure you’ve got everything you need!
  • Tour du Mont Blanc | Maps & Routes – Get an overview of this incredible trail!
  • Tour du Mont Blanc Logistics – Don’t forget the small details!
  • How to Navigate on the TMB – Turn your smartphone into a GPS!
  • How to find all of your campgrounds on the TMB – Know where you are and where you’re going!
  • How to train for the TMB – Avoid being the last person to the campground!
  • 10 Essentials for the Tour du Mont Blanc- The quick and dirty basics
  • TMB Trip Report – Know what to expect!
  • Tour du Mont Blanc Photo Galley – Find some inspiration!
  • How to hike the TMB for (nearly) free – save BIG on your TMB costs!
  • Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation and Refuge Guide
  • Tour du Mont Blanc – Shortcuts, Detours, & Public Transit

47 thoughts on “Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc [2024 Update]”

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Thank you for producing such a fantastic, comprehensive and inspirational website!

My wife and I have been wanting to hike the TMB for over 15 years and we have finally got round to it. We start tomorrow.

Until we read your website we had not considered camping on the route. However, your website changed all that and we are now planning to spend as many nights as we can in the tent on the TMB. Your detailed camping information really leaves no stone unturned and we can’t wait to get started!

Thanks again.

John & Sharon Crawford (UK)

John & Sharon, Thank you so much for your kind words! We are so glad that you found the information useful and that it inspired you to camp more along the route. We hope you have a fantastic time on your walk! -Emily & Ian

Did you make any reservations in advance for the campsites? Thanks!

Hi Joy, We did not reserve any of our campsites in advance, and had no problem finding a pitch. Hope this helps!

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Hello Guys! Thanks for all the information you share! Very useful!

I am Tiago from Brazil!

I will do the tour in august 2018 with my wife. Would like to know if the campsites rent a tent? And how much it cost?

Thanks a lot for your attention, apreciate!

Hey Tiago, glad you’ve found the information useful! Excited to hear about your 2018 TMB plans. Unfortunately, none of the campsites we visited rented tents, so you’ll need to bring your own. Hope this helps and let us know if you have any more questions!

Thanks for producing this info guide. It has been a huge help with planning my TMB trip 2018 or 2019.

Do you remember the price of camping at Chalet Pierre Semard please?

This site is the only place I’ve even heard of it and I like the sound of it.

I checked the site you gave the link for but I can’t figure out how to translate it to English.

Thanks again for all the helpful info.

Hi Phil, Glad our guide has been helpful in planning your trip. Pierre Semard was definitely one of our favorite campgrounds and we were thrilled to find it given that there wasn’t a lot of information available on it. If I remember correctly we paid 4 euros/night – a bargain.

The website here has some additional information in English: https://www.chamonix.com/camping-pierre-semard,117-209642,en.html Hope this helps and be sure to let us know if you have any other questions.

Hi Im planning on camping on the trail in June, what are the coldest night temperatures i can expect? Thank you for this great website!

Hi Sebastian, We hiked in early-July and the coldest it got at night was low 50s (10 Celsius). It will most likely be a bit colder in June and you can see the average monthly temperatures for June for Chamonix here: https://www.accuweather.com/en/fr/chamonix/136573/month/136573?monyr=6/01/2018

Also, if hiking in June you’ll want to be prepared to encounter snow on the trail. It has been a very snowy winter in the Alps this year so I’d imagine snow will linger on the trail into July. Best of luck!

Thank you so much for writing this! I am hiking the TMB this June (17th -26th). I’m fairly experienced with trekking as well as snow hiking. In your experience, do you think even with the heavy snow year, the TMB is doable for capable hikers?

Either way, thank you so much again for this post! We are hoping to camp most of it.

Hi Jenny, Glad you found our information useful! It’s really difficult to say what the trail conditions will be like in mid-June. We hiked in early July last year, and there were short sections that were snowy and slightly difficult with a loaded backpack. We’d recommend checking in with the various huts on the route, as they’ll have a good idea of current conditions. The good news is that even if some sections are too snowy to traverse there are plenty of alternate routes and ways to connect various sections of the trail.

Hi! Looking to go in June! Very helpful article. Would you by any chance have any advice on how to complete the trail in 7 nights/8 days? Wanted to see if you have any advice/trails for us since we still wanted to complete the full hike with cutting down the days!

Hi Kristina, Thanks for reaching our and glad you’ve found our site useful! Tackling the entire trail in 8-days will be very difficult, though not impossible. Be prepared for some very long, very tiring days. Our best recommendation would be to hike from Courmayeur to Alpage de La Peule, skipping Refugio Bonatti. From La Peule you would then walk to Champex, skipping La Fouly. You could also combine the last day and walk directly from Tre-le-Champ to Les Houches. For all of these days you’d want to get a very early start and be prepared to arrive very late in the day.

There are also bus connections that would make an 8-day trek much more pleasurable without the long demanding days. Hope this helps!

Hello Kristina a, I am also hiking the tour in June as a post-graduation experience, but unfortunately I will be hiking alone. I am hoping to meet people on the hike when I go. I was wondering when in June will you be hiking?

Hello, do you recommend completing this hike alone? I would very much like to hike this tour during June 2019 as a post-graduation vacation, but I am slightly worried because of the conditions and lack of experience hiking. Is it likely to meet other groups or people during the hike and joining them? Thank you very much and have a great day!

Hi Ryan, The TMB is certainly a great hike to do solo. The trail is well marked and there are many groups of other hikers who you are likely to encounter. We’d recommend being sure you are fit enough given your lack of experience hiking and also brushing up on some of your outdoor preparedness skills in advance. With both of those accomplished it is very likely that you’ll meet other sociable hikers along the route! Hope you have a great TMB!

Hi! Great info and I want to purchase your guide, but how up-to-date is it? I understand that the route might change slightly from year to year, and nothing would be more frustrating to have outdated info on a guide. Thanks in advance!

Hi Alex, Glad you’re finding the info on our site useful! All of the campsite info in our Guide is up to date for 2019 and the route doesn’t change year to year, unless there was heavy snow and you are starting early in the season. Either way we always offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for our Guide so if you buy it and don’t like it we’ll give you a refund no questions asked! Cheers, Ian

hi, im planning on going and walking over 12days. im going with a 10year old how bad is the wild camping restrictions uphold as i am sure one or two days my son will be too tired to make camp sites

Hi there, It’s difficult to give you an easy, surefire answer, as the rules and availability for wild camping vary quite a bit throughout the walk. At most stages, if you’re able to set up camp after dusk and pack up at dawn you’ll likely be okay. If you think your itinerary could be too challenging, there are lots of easy ways to cut out segments via public transportation or you could look into adding or cutting out days.

Hope you and your son have a great trip! Emily and Ian

Hello, i know it might be a silly question, but is reservation necessary for the campsites?

thank you for your website! it was key for organizing my TMB trek.

Hi there, Not a silly question at all! While reservations are very necessary for many of the mountain huts, you do not need them at the campgrounds. In fact, many won’t even accept them in advance. If you’re concerned about getting a good pitch, try to get there a little earlier in the day and you should be just fine.

Have a wonderful trip! Emily and Ian

I am planning to hike the TMB next year and I have found your online guide to be extremely helpful and informative. I have just a couple of questions:

1. Did you make your reservations ahead of time for camping? If not were you ever turned away because it was at capacity?

2. Did you make reservations in advance when you stayed at the refugio’s? And if so how far in advance?

I would rather not be tied down to a schedule but also don’t want to stress about no available sites!

Hello! 1. Campsite reservations are not necessary. They always make room for walkers. If you’re worried about getting a good pitch, try to get there a bit earlier in the day and you’ll have no problem.

2. Yes, we strongly recommend that you book the refigios ahead of time. Many fill up months in advance. As soon as you work out your itinerary, it’s a good idea to call and make a reservation. If you’re on the trail and you think you’ll need to change something, you can phone the hut and see if they’ll be able to adjust your reservation.

Hope you have a great hike! Emily and Ian

Hi, thanks for the camping guide. One update: we hiked the tour last week and camping close to refugio Elisabetta was strictly forbidden (at the refugio they told us that the police comes and checks… which was a bit unfortunate, as the refugio was fully booked). As we walked clockwise, we continued that day to cross the boarder to France and reach Les Chapieux (very long day!). Also, some people wild-camp higher up, closer to the French boarder, or at the French side.

How was your clockwise hike? Where did you start your hike and did you complete the entire TMB? We are planing to hike this late June early July 2020 and don’t yet know if my husband will have more than 7 days. We looked at alternatives for starting points and I was leaning towards starting in Courmayeur since Chamonix has a number of events in late June and early July that will make it quite busy (Mont Blanc Marathon June 25-28; Chamonix Yoga Festival Jul 3-5 and Climbing World Cup Jul 11-13).

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Thanks so much for this info! I’m keen to buy your guide book and follow stages above, just checking if info is still valid for summer 2022? I’ve seen a few places where it says wild camping is illegal below 2500 m? Just thought I’d double check. Also, is there still no need to book if I go early august?

Hi Becky, Yep, the Guide is up to date for 2022! Just to note, it does not include specific wild camping sites, but rather is focused on staying in developed campgrounds. We always recommend this to limit impacts on the environment. Thanks, Ian

Hi there! thanks so much for all the well detailed info and useful tips. I was interested to hike during the month of May 2023. as the following months I won’t have the same availability. Is this possible at all?

Hi Calen, Glad you’re finding it helpful! Unfortunately, it’s very unlikely that you’ll be able to do the hike in May. There’s typically too much snow still on the trail to trek without snow-specific equipment, and most (if not all) of the refuges and campgrounds will not have opened for the season.

Hello, I’m looking to camp the trail in early October will this be possible due to the weather conditions and availability of camping spots?

Hi Kyle, It’s hard to say what the weather will be like in early October. You might get lucky with some lovely sunny fall days, but you also might encounter some wicked rain and snow. Either way, be prepared for cold nights and mornings. Many of the campgrounds will have closed for the season, so you will need to wild camp at many points along the route. Best of luck!

For camping, do I need to bring any sort of container for my food or can I keep it in my tent?

Hi Danila, You can store your food in your tent, as bears or other wildlife are not much of a concern. Have a great trip!

This is great information! I just wish you posted the mileage between each stage and maybe some prices of the campsites and huts. Where do you go to find out the price of the campsites? Thanks!

Hi Kathryn, Thanks for the feedback. To find the most updated prices, we recommend visiting the campgrounds’ websites. Typically you can expect to pay around 10 euros per person at a campground. There are also some free sites along the route. Have a great trip!

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camping le tour chamonix

We’re Emily and Ian, outdoor lovers and planning nerds who live in Boulder, Colorado. The only thing we love more than researching and mapping out our next adventure, is actually being out there on the trail. Between the two of us, we’ve been to over 30 countries, and much of our travel in these countries has been on two feet or two wheels. When we’re not in a far-flung destination, we spend a lot of time exploring the amazing camping, hiking, and biking destinations in our home state of Colorado. Learn More About Us

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Crave the Planet

Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc Guide + Tips

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Experience the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc like never before with a camping tour that takes you through the heart of the Alps, offering an unforgettable adventure amidst some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes.

Most people stay in huts when hiking the TMB – but this guide will help you avoid the crowded huts by camping the Tour du Mont Blanc for more peace. You’ll find a mix of higher elevation wild camping near refuges and campgrounds in the valleys.

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Over 11 days, you traverse high mountain passes, explore charming alpine villages, and enjoy exquisite local cuisine, all while making your camping spot under the vast, starry sky each night. You can download this app to find allowable wild camping.

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Quick Guide to Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc

Tmb camping map, exploring the tour du mont blanc, why go camping on the tour du mont blanc, complete guide to camping along the tour du mont blanc trail, 1. accommodations in les houches & chamonix, 2. campsites in the les contamines area, 3. pitching your tent near les chapieux, 4. options near rifugio elisabetta & val veny, 5. val ferret, 6. establishing base at la fouly, 7. campgrounds at champex-lac: 2 choices, guidelines for wild camping during your trek, locating campsites on the tmb trail, essential camping gear for the tour du mont blanc, nourishment along the tmb, financial considerations for your journey, final verdict: ways to book a hut to hut hiking trip, common inquiries on the tour du mont blanc trek, more resources.

The trek promises to be a fulfilling challenge that rewards you with unparalleled natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment.

Navigating the Tour du Mont Blanc means traversing international borders and a mosaic of local jurisdictions, all with unique camping regulations. It’s wise to inquire about the specific camping policies at each refuge and village you encounter. Also, always seek permission from landowners before setting up your tent on their land.

Here’s a general guideline to the camping rules across the three countries you’ll cross:

  • In France, you’re allowed to bivouac from sunset until sunrise.
  • Italy permits bivouacking above 2,500 meters, also from sunset to sunrise.
  • In Switzerland, bivouacking is not allowed.

Use this resource to plan your camping version of the Tour du Mont Blanc hike.

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse or fingers to zoom in and out. Click on the icons to get more information. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the written index. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your google maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open google maps, click the menu button, and go to “your places”/ “maps.”

List of camping locations along TMB. Read further down for an explanation of where they are and links to their sites to book a spot.

  • Camping Des Glaciers
  • Camping Grandes Jorasses
  • Camping Relais d’Arpette
  • Refuge de la Balme wild camping
  • Refuge La Flegere
  • Les Chapieux camping
  • Hotel de la Forclaz Camping
  • Camping Hobo
  • Auberge La Boerne
  • Camping de la Mer de Glace
  • Camping Bellevue
  • Camping du Glacier
  • Nant Borrant wild camping
  • Camping Les Arolles
  • Camping Aiguille Noire
  • Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme
  • Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente
  • Camping Les Roccallies
  • Camping Le Pontet
  • Le Peuty camping

Preparing for this camping journey requires careful planning and a spirit ready for the outdoors.

By choosing to pitch a tent, you deepen your connection with the environment and enhance the immersive experience of being in the wilderness.

In addition to campgrounds, this guide will also share:

  • Essentials for the Trek
  • The Advantages of Tenting on the Trail
  • Locations for Overnight Tenting
  • Regulations on Undesignated Tenting
  • Locating Tent Pitches
  • Gear for Overnight Hiking
  • Food and Beverages Tips
  • Managing Your Expenses

Camping

There are many different rules about camping in Europe and campgrounds can be crowded.  You do need to reserve them often.  Wild camping is prohibited or limited by elevation, region or culture in many places but people still do wild camp. 

Not really my favorite thing for hut to hut trails in Europe. The huts are quite often the best part of the hiking trip. 

  • Price is good
  • More Flexibilty
  • Wild camping is tricky
  • Rules change
  • harder and heavier pack

camping guide for tmb

Embarking on the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), you’ll experience a globally renowned trail spanning across three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. This route encircles the majestic Mont Blanc, Europe’s towering beacon reaching skyward with its snow-capped peak.

On your journey, you traverse 11 segments, each presenting its own unique spectacle of the Alps’ raw beauty. As you navigate various mountain passes like Col de la Seigne and Fenêtre d’Arpette, the path takes you through picturesque valleys dotted with inviting villages, offering cultural discoveries and local flavors.

Prepare to be charmed by hamlets that dot the valleys, scale rugged landscapes, and indulge in the distinctive Alpine experience that the Tour du Mont Blanc expertly curates.

More Tour du Mont Blanc Travel Blogs

  • 5 Day TMB Itinerary
  • Review of Global Rescue Trekking Insurance
  • Best Self-Guided Planners for the TMB
  • Best Time to Hike the TMB
  • Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc
  • TMB Costs and Budget Planning
  • Paragliding in Chamonix
  • TMB Minimalist Packing List

camping le tour chamonix

1. Escape the Refuge Reservations

Bypassing the intense competition to book huts on the Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the primary benefits of choosing to camp.

Securing accommodation in mountain refuges is an increasingly competitive ordeal with slots filling up months in advance, limiting your spontaneity.

By contrast, with a tent in your pack, you can enjoy the freedom of hiking without the stress of locking in your sleeping spots so far ahead of time.

2. Embrace the Flexibility of the Trail

The ability to adapt to the unexpected during your trek is a key advantage of camping. Changeable mountain weather, varying personal pace, or a surprise blister can all impact your day’s plan.

On a refuge-dependent trek, alterations in your itinerary can cause ripple effects.

But with your shelter on your back, your plan stays as fluid as the mountain streams, and it’s always just the right time to pitch camp and rest.

3. Substantial Savings

Camping along the Tour du Mont Blanc is notably kinder to your wallet compared to the costs of staying in refuges.

While you swap some home comforts for the embrace of nature, the financial savings are considerable.

Backpacking in this way lets you extend your adventure or allocate your budget to other experiences, making that challenge of the Mont Blanc trek both rewarding and economical.

– Clockwise Direction

camping le tour chamonix

This guide lists campgrounds and wild camping spots that are allowed in the clockwise direction.

Your journey begins at Les Houches, a short bus ride from the bustling town of Chamonix . You have a variety of camping facilities to choose from, with amenities that ensure comfort at the start of your hike.

  • Camping Les Arolles is nestled within Chamonix itself, providing the luxury of proximity to shops and entertainment alongside free WiFi and a washing area. If you prefer a quieter setting, opt for more campgrounds towards Les Bossons, accessible by bus.
  • In Les Houches, prepare for an early trail start by staying at Camping Bellevue , the primary camping site in the area. Located at the base of the Bellevue cable car, this campground offers basic sanitary facilities and charging stations.
  • For a unique experience, consider wild camping near Refuge de Miage if you take the Col de Tricot alternate route—be mindful of environmental stewardship and utilize available public amenities responsibly.

As you reach Les Contamines, Camping Le Pontet serves as a traditional rest point. Situated past the town, it provides easy access to town amenities and offers a starting advantage for the next day’s trek. Services include showers, a café, and charging stations.

Adventurous spirits seeking a semblance of wild camping might press on to the Nant Borrant or Refuge de la Balme areas. Legal wild camping zones are available adjacent to the refuges, with potable water and toilets close by.

Upon completion of stage two, Les Chapieux presents free camping opportunities next to the local tourist office.

If ending your day earlier is preferred, bivouac at Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme , keeping environmental considerations in mind.

Campers tackling the third stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) face a dilemma, as pitching tents at Rifugio Elisabetta is not an option , and the surrounding area lacks towns or official campgrounds. To navigate this issue, campers have a practical alternative:

One can divert to the Val Veny, which is home to three campgrounds and lies just off the primary TMB trail. This detour means covering an additional 4-5 miles beyond the usual stopping point for stage three. The extension, however, involves mainly easy road walking or gentle descents.

By choosing this route, hikers will veer away from the standard TMB path and make their way down into the scenic Veny Valley. Once there, they can either continue on foot or take a bus to reach any of the three campgrounds available in the area.

Your Options

Our favorite camping spot in Val Veny is Camping Aiguille Noire , chosen especially for its accessibility to both the trail and public transportation options. Additionally, it offers an excellent overnight experience with amenities like a fully supplied grocery store, a bar/restaurant, and high-quality restroom and shower facilities.

If you’re seeking a serene retreat away from the bustle, consider Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente in Val Veny . While it may be a tad less accessible for Tour du Mont Blanc trekkers, being nestled further down the valley and away from the main thoroughfare, the tranquility it offers could be just the reward for those willing to embrace a little more legwork.

Nestled right next to Camping Aiguille Noire, Camping Hobo offers a warm welcome to TMB campers with its more rustic charm. Don’t let the simplicity fool you; the amiable and attentive staff ensure a delightful stay, making it a perfect spot to set up camp under the stars.

You’ll find all the essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready to easily hop back onto the TMB trail for your next day’s adventure.

The vibrant town of Courmayeur does not have any campgrounds. Choosing a hotel here allows you to experience the area’s rich cultural atmosphere along with the essential services for a comfortable stay.

👉 ❌ This is a bit of a chokepoint for campers.

Stays Near Rifugio Bonatti

As the trail brings you closer to Rifugio Bonatti , allow yourself to get a drink on their deck before decending down into Val Ferret to rest at nearby camping grounds. Take in the views of the Italian side of Mont Blanc from this ideal vantage point.

Alternative to Bonatti

Campers on the TMB, take note: the stretch between Courmayeur and La Fouly lacks official camping sites, posing a bit of a logistical puzzle due to scarce nearby towns and bus links. But don’t fret, we’ve outlined your best bets:

For those keen on camping during this leg of the TMB, Camping Grandes Jorasses in Val Ferret is your nearest and most practical option. To stay on track with the main route and keep camping nightly, try this strategy:

  • After stage four, catch a bus from Courmayeur to your chosen campsite in either Val Veny or Val Ferret, then bus back the next morning to resume the hike.
  • At the end of stage five, near Rifugio Bonatti, follow a connecting trail down to Val Ferret to reach Camping Grandes Jorasses by bus or foot.
  • On the following day, hop on the bus from Camping Grandes Jorasses to the Arp Nouvaz stop to rejoin the TMB and continue towards La Fouly.

If you can’t get into Camping Grandes Jorasses, you can also try Camping Tronchey but it’s more basic.

In the Swiss village of La Fouly , campers find solace in the charming local campsites. Enjoy the amenities provided while basking in the serene backdrop of the Swiss Alps.

Camping des Glaciers is a party! It may seem bustling upon arrival, teeming with energetic kids, pets, and camping vans, but it compensates with its choice of level, shaded pitches and spectacular views.

For a more peaceful experience, we suggest setting up camp by the river to mask any surrounding sounds. Although the camp office takes a midday break, you’re free to pick a spot, get settled, and access the amenities prior to official check-in.

Just a short ten-minute stroll away, the town center provides additional conveniences, including dining options, an ATM, and a grocery store for all your needs.

Another picturesque spot lies at Champex-Lac . Here, the campsites grant you access to refreshing lake views and the tranquil sounds of nature, all the while ensuring your journey’s convenience and comfort.

  • Camping Les Rocailles sits at the edge of Champex, a brief 20-minute stroll beyond the town center—anticipate this extra leg to stave off any end-of-hike impatience. Your reward is an early jump on tomorrow’s trail.

This charming campground features three terraced areas with ample flat space for tents, although shade is sparse. For those eager to get a jump on the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant, consider pushing on further using the alternative outlined below.

And a gentle reminder: you’re in Switzerland, where the rates at Camping Les Rocailles are a testament to the country’s standard of living!

  • Choosing the Relais d’Arpette campground is ideal for those targeting the Fenêtre d’Arpette trail the next day, given its location off the primary TMB trail. Accessible via a mild 45-minute uphill hike from Champex, just track the trail signs for Fenêtre d’Arpette. Remember to gather supplies in Champex, as it’s the last significant town on the TMB before reaching Les Houches.

8. Camping at Col de la Forclaz, Trient & Le Peuty

The areas of Col de la Forclaz, Trient , and Le Peuty offer campers various facilities along the route. Whether you’re seeking full service or a more rustic experience, these sites cater to a range of preferences.

  • Indulge in a touch of luxury at the Hotel Col de la Forclaz campsite, the more upscale choice on this TMB stage. Delight in amenities like pristine toilets, refreshing showers, and the convenience of adding hotel breakfast or dinner to your stay.

Discover the onsite shop for snacking and sundry needs. Plus, its proximity to Champex means a lighter hiking day for you. However, if you’re eyeing the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant, take note: choosing this campsite would require a half-mile backtrack along the main TMB route to reach the comforts of Hotel Col de la Forclaz.

Or, head to the tiny hamlet of Le Peuty.

  • Enjoy the rustic charm and wallet-friendly rates of camping in the meadow beside Refuge Le Peuty , costing just half of what you’d spend at Hotel de la Forclaz. The facilities here are modest, offering a refreshing break from the more bustling campgrounds encountered earlier on the trail. To find your way to this tranquil spot, continue your descent for 30-40 minutes past Col de la Forclaz.

The campground is essentially an unmarked field. Simply set up your tent upon arrival, and a staff member will come by later to collect the fee, accepting both CHF and Euros.

9. Finding Your Spot at Tré-le-Champ & Argentiere

Tré-le-Champ and Argentiere are home to camping locations that serve as a perfect stop for those traversing the French sections of the trail. Take advantage of the amenities and rest up for the trails ahead.

  • Find comfort and convenience at this snug La Boerne Table & Auberge in tre-le-champ , where camping is just a stone’s throw from the trail, complemented by breathtaking views of the Aiguille Verte from its lush, grassy sites.
  • Camping du Glaciers in Argentière is highly praised for being a spacious campsite with a wealth of fantastic facilities. Though it requires an additional 25-minute detour from the trail (and a return trip the following day), the reward is the convenience of Argentière’s extensive amenities right at your doorstep.

10. Around Refuge La Flégère

For a stay closer to the high mountains, consider the area surrounding Refuge La Flégère . Here, you’ll find the perfect blend of wilderness and sleeping near refuges. You can also take a gondola down to the valley for established campgrounds.

  • Camping de la Mer de Glace (Les Praz) is a short gondola ride away and 15 min from the valley station.
  • Refuge La Flégère has all the normal hut services and allows overnight bivouacking.

Concluding Your TMB Trek

Once you’ve completed your circuit of the Tour du Mont Blanc, various accommodations are available. Seek out places that offer a space to reflect on your achievement and recuperate before your onward journey.

I’d recommend a spa hotel in Chamonix 🙂

Experiencing the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) involves navigating a mosaic of regulations that concern wild camping . As the path weaves through France, Italy, and Switzerland, it’s crucial to honor the diverse local mandates you’ll encounter.

  • In France, the freedom to camp in the wild is often reserved for higher elevations, only from sunset until sunrise.
  • Over in Italy, post up your tent above 2,500 meters as twilight fades, and take it down with the first light. However, bear in mind that Switzerland upholds a stringent ban on such spontaneous encampments.
  • For those near Chamonix, a quick registration via the Chamonix App is mandatory before you commence camping. This digital tool is an invaluable resource, detailing specific zones that welcome wild camping, areas where it’s discouraged, and spots where it’s expressly prohibited.

The TMB offers abundant authorized campgrounds along its route. Utilizing these sites supports local townships and contributes to preserving the delicate alpine ecosystem.

Besides, numerous designated areas permit free camping, giving you the opportunity to immerse in nature without infringing on regulations.

f you opt to camp outside these allocated spots, your responsibility to set up at sundown and depart at dawn is paramount, along with a strict adherence to leave-no-trace principles.

Here are some officially recognized spots for you to consider:

  • Chalet Miage on the Col de Tricot path
  • Refuge Nant Borrant
  • Refuge de la Balme
  • Les Chapieux
  • Refuge la Flégère
  • Reserve Naturelle des Aiguilles Rouges between 7 p.m. and 9 a.m.

While you may encounter seemingly perfect settings for a night under the stars, diligence in abiding by local laws ensures a sustainable future for the trail and its surrounding environments.

Selecting a place to rest each night while you traverse the renowned Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) may require brief deviations from the main path. This is particularly true in the regions encircling Courmayeur and Chamonix.

To make your journey smoother, incorporating a reliable GPS navigation app into your toolkit is crucial, and Gaia GPS comes highly recommended for this purpose.

When utilizing a GPS app complemented with tailored GPS files, your screen becomes an invaluable map. These files detail all campsite locations along your journey and offer precise directions to access sites off the primary trail. With this technology, your waypoints are marked, and connecting trails to each campsite are easy to follow.

Such an advanced setup not only enhances your route clarity but also ensures you remain oriented towards your next destination with ease. Walking on the TMB with a pre-downloaded GPS map significantly eases navigation, especially when no internet connection is available.

For complete peace of mind and ease of navigation while on the Tour du Mont Blanc, acquiring a comprehensive camping guide might prove beneficial. However, should you prefer a more simplified aid, a standard GPS file covering the entire trail is an alternative offering.

With these navigational resources, determining how far and where to journey before you can unwind at your campsite becomes a trouble-free part of your adventure.

Assessing Your Pack’s Weight

Determining the ideal backpack weight involves various factors based on personal hiking pace, experience, and any pre-existing injuries. Strive to maintain your pack’s total weight under 25 pounds, including water, to ensure comfort and avoid strain. If you have a history of injuries, aim for a pack weight less than 20 pounds. Remember, lighter packs contribute to a quicker pace on the trail.

Choosing the Right Tent

When selecting a tent for the TMB, prioritize a model with a sturdy rain fly and a lower profile to counteract wind. Ensure it is light enough to carry comfortably across varied terrains daily. Heavy-duty stakes and a durable ground cover are advised, especially for wild camping or bivouac sites. Brands such as MSR, Big Agnes, and Sierra Designs offer reliable backpacking tents with the MSR Hubba Hubba standing out for its balance of lightness and durability.

Selecting a Sleeping Bag

Your sleeping bag should accommodate temperatures ranging from -5 to 5 degrees Celsius for a comfortable night’s sleep in most conditions on the TMB. If you tend to sleep warm, a bag rated around 10 degrees Celsius may suffice, but always pair it with an insulated sleeping pad or a sleep sac to safeguard against the cold ground.

Read ➡️ Best Summer Sleeping Bags

Recommended gear for tmb camping.

  • Battery Backup : Keep your devices charged with a quality power bank like the BioLite Charge 80 , as electronic charging opportunities may be scarce at campsites.
  • Trekking Poles : Reduce the impact on your knees and improve balance on steep trails with the aid of trekking poles.
  • Merino Wool Socks : To prevent blisters and discomfort, invest in Smartwool Hiking socks made from merino wool for their blend of comfort and durability.

Other essentials include a puffy down jacket for warmth without the bulk and the Knife edge guidebook by Andrew Mccluggage for insightful trail guidance. Lastly, secure travel insurance for peace of mind against unforeseen events during your adventure.

Remember : Handling the basics well can make a significant difference in your hiking experience. Proper gear setup keeps you safe and comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy the majestic Tour du Mont Blanc.

Rescue Insurance [Protect Your Body and Health]

It’s a very good idea to get insurance for this trip just in case you twist an ankle or worse on the trail.  Parts of these trails are totally inaccessible to vehicles so if you did get hurt you would have to get a helicopter rescue. 

Crave the Planet partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services.  Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, we rely on Global Rescue to provide our clients with medical, security, travel risk and crisis response services. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens. 

👉 We highly recommend hikers enroll with Global Rescue for peace of mind.

Travel Insurance [Protect Your Wallet]

| TL;DR From Author

Don’t let unexpected changes derail your travel plans – with travel insurance you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re covered if you need to alter your bookings. Protect your investment and travel with confidence by securing travel insurance today.

Hydration Essentials

When embarking on the TMB, it’s crucial to maintain hydration. Fortunately, the trail is well-equipped with water sources, including potable water at accommodations and village fountains. It’s advisable to carry 1-2 liters of water daily to ensure you remain hydrated between these points.

Campers should be mindful that not all water sources are safe to drink unfiltered due to agricultural runoff near the trail. It’s recommended to have a compact and efficient water filter. A popular choice among hikers is the Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system, known for its simplicity and effectiveness.

Alongside water, campers have various food options. The route’s proximity to towns allows for regular resupply of provisions, effectively eliminating the need to transport an extensive supply of food.

For those who prefer to manage their budget, self-catering is a viable option. This entails bringing cooking equipment and a portable stove. Nearby shops, where available, provide ingredients for meals, which might include pasta , cheese , and fresh bread (pain).

Additionally, hikers can indulge in local delicacies by purchasing meals at hotels, gites, or refuges along the path. While lunches are typically available without prior arrangement, dinners often require an early reservation, especially if you’re not staying overnight. It’s important to note that some refuges may not serve campers, so planning ahead is essential.

Those who enjoy a glass of beer or wine will find that these are also part of the offerings at many resting points, enhancing the overall experience with local flavors.

Whether opting for self-prepared meals or enjoying local cuisine, the TMB promises to be as enriching for the palette as it is for the soul.

Payment: Cash or Cards?

When you’re trekking along the Tour du Mont Blanc, prepare to operate mostly with cash . While the trend of accepting cards is growing, you’ll find cash crucial, especially as ATMs can be scarce. Ensure you’re carrying enough to sustain your basic needs for multiple days.

Currency Variations

Embarking on the TMB, you traverse through three countries, which means handling different currencies. You start with Euros in France, switch to Swiss Francs in Switzerland, and back to Euros in Italy. It’s prudent to use local currency in Switzerland to benefit from favorable exchange rates, although they will accept Euros.

Managing Your Expense

While the TMB has a reputation for being on the more opulent side of hiking experiences, it’s feasible to adopt a cost-effective approach—mainly through opting to camp. This choice not only curtails your expenditure on accommodations significantly but also amplifies your connection with nature.

For meals, steer clear of frequent restaurant dining and instead indulge in local markets and stores for provisions. A self-prepared meal can dramatically reduce your costs while letting you enjoy the culinary delights of the region.

Remember, the trail’s best rewards, like the sweeping vistas atop a challenging pass, are available at no extra charge to you.

Local delicacies like cheese are a must-try, and a celebratory drink post-hike is a tradition worth indulging in. But always balance it with homemade meals to keep your expenses in check.

Self-Guided Tour Planning Service

Self-Guided Tour Planning Service

  • [Self-Guided] - You're on your own once you start
  • Must book in Oct to Jan of year prior to hike
  • Fully done for you route
  • Service finds and books your huts
  • Maps provided on app

What we liked: The logistics of the TMB and other hut to hut hikes can be very daunting, especially if you don't speak Italian and French. 

Note: Lesser known trails are often easier to book.  

  • Ease of route
  • No finding or dealing with huts
  • Tapping into expertise
  • No waiting for slow hikers
  • No feeling rushed if you're slower
  • Less control of dates
  • No guide on the trail
  • Unknown - you didn't "plan"

Guided Group Tour : 4 Days

Guided Group Tour : 4 Days

  • small groups (<10 typically)
  • local Chamonix guides
  • all transfers/breakfast/dinner/accommodations included
  • airport transfer included
  • stay in the insanely beautiful Rifugio Bonatti and other huts at high elevation

What we liked:   Designed for busy people that want to experience the highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc without having to take 2 weeks of their precious vacation time.  Everything is done-for-you and you can show up and relax in the most stunning mountains. 

Note: The standard price includes shared rooms in the huts.

  • All transfers included
  • Best price for a guided trip
  • Local Chamonix Guides
  • At the mercy of group pace
  • Not the full circuit

DIY: Book Your Own Huts

DIY: Book Your Own Huts

  • Cheapest Option
  • Most Freedom
  • Take side excursions as you like

What we liked: The challenge of it.  It's so fun to route plan, find trails and the huts you want.  Often it's not the expense saved, but the learning of the trail while planning that is satisfying. 

Note: Be prepared to spend some time with spreadsheets and wait weeks for replies from hut owners.  BONUS:  Click on the link to watch my 10 part video series on HOW to book a hut to hut trip.  It's a Dolomites hut trip but it's basically the same process for TMB. 

  • Cheapest option
  • Most freedom
  • Learn the Trail by planning
  • You must be organized
  • Map skills are essential
  • campgrounds can be crowded
  • reservations often needed in advance
  • Wild camping is prohibited or limited by elevation

Not really my favorite thing for hut to hut trails in Europe. The huts are quite often the best part of the hiking trip and the rules are so complicated about wild camping.

Best Shelters for Your Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

If you want to mix and match refuges and camping, when trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), several refuges stand out for their hospitality and services. Notable ones include Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme, which is known for its picturesque setting and warmth. Another recommended shelter is the Rifugio Elisabetta, offering remarkable views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It’s essential to book these in advance as they fill up quickly, particularly during peak hiking seasons.

Regulations on Wild Camping Along the TMB Trail

Wild camping is generally not permitted along the TMB route, especially within the national parks and nature reserves. However, some designated areas may allow bivouacking for a night, provided you set up at dusk and leave at dawn. Check local regulations before your hike to ensure compliance.

A Suggested Camping Schedule for Completing the TMB

An ideal camping itinerary for the TMB could involve staying at regulated campsites along the route. A common approach could include your first night at Les Houches, then Les Contamines, followed by stays at Courmayeur, La Fouly, and Trient, among others. This plan spaces out campsites reasonably, accounting for a moderate daily hiking pace.

Projected Camping Expenses on the TMB

Expect average costs for campsites to range from €5 to €25 per night. Keep in mind, though, prices can vary based on location and amenities offered. Additional expenditures may include food supplies, gear rental if needed, and transportation to and from the trailheads.

Challenging Segments of the TMB and Preparatory Advice

Parts of the TMB can be arduous, particularly ascents such as the Fenêtre d’Arpette or the climb to the Grand Col Ferret. Prepare by ensuring adequate fitness levels and packing suitable gear, including sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing. Also, acclimating to higher altitudes can be beneficial.

Guidance Needs for the TMB Expedition

While a guide is not essential for experienced hikers, beginners might find it advantageous for navigation and safety reasons. Self-guided camping is viable, but it’s crucial to be well-prepared with maps, a good understanding of the terrain, and knowledge of local weather patterns.

Discover gear that elevates your outdoor adventures. As a physical therapist, I’ve curated product comparisons to enhance safety and enjoyment, perfect for beginners or those with weary knees.

Physical Therapist Curated Gear Guides for Hikers & Skiers

  • 🧎 Make your knees feel better while hiking and walking: Best Knee Braces for Hiking
  • 🌳Make the downhills stop hurting and hike with more confidence Best Trekking Poles Review
  • ⌚ Never get lost on the trail and navigate the wilderness safely with My Review of the Best GPS Watches for Hiking
  • ❄️ Go hiking on uneven terrain safely: The Best Hiking Boots with Ankle Support
  • Don’t get lost in the backcountry with : My Review of the Best 2 Way Radios for the Mountains

hiking hut to hut

My Guides to Bucketlist Hikes in Europe (That I’ve personally done and loved.)

  • Alta Via 1 Trail in the Dolomites
  • Olpererhütte Hike in Austria
  • The Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal
  • The Tour du Mont Blanc Hike vs the Alta Via 1

We hope this guide filled with interesting information about camping the Tour du Mont Blanc given you the proper information to plan your next adventure.

camping le tour chamonix

Author profile :  Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.

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camping le tour chamonix

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Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) – Low budget guide to camping sites and food supplies

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Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a legendary long distance circular hiking trail in the Alps, around the Mont Blanc massive, that takes hikers crossing three countries, namely France, Italy, and Switzerland. The trail encompasses around 170 km of trekking with around 10000 meters of ascend and descent.

The route takes you through some of the most beautiful area in the Alps, in the foot of the tallest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc. Most people undertake the hike in around 10-12 days, staying in the mountain huts, hotels, bed & breakfasts, or camping sites spread along the way.

Staying in an alpine mountain hut may sound nice and romantic, but the exorbitant price, up to €50 per night per person or more for a bed in a large dorm, may be prohibitive for most travelers. To make matters worse, these beds are usually booked up months in advance, forcing hikers to already map out their desired route way in advance. Similarly, hotels and bed & breakfast price in the mountain resort towns in the area charge very steep price for their rooms, especially during the summer high season.

This is where camping sites come in handy. Costing so much lower, the sites are never booked up and no onward reservation is necessary in any of the sites, allowing you full flexibility. Wanna spend another day in a particular area that you like? No problem, simply tell the camping guards that you’d stay another night. Plus, who wouldn’t want to wake up to fresh mountain air underneath a mountain glacier.

View from Mount Chetif

In this comprehensive low budget guide to tackling the Tour du Mont Blanc, I’d detail the cost and location of the camping sites along the path (camping price for summer 2019), where to get food supplies and my food strategy and budgeting, plus the TMB route I undertook in handy maps.

Note that I did the TMB from Chamonix, taking the classic counter-clockwise route. But this guide would also work just fine for the clockwise route, or for when starting at Courmayeur. The time needed to complete each daily leg may vary depending on your pace, but can be roughly estimated from TMB’s website .

Another peculiarity from my trip was that I did the full trip from Chamonix to Chamonix, while my partner, reluctant to hike for two weeks straight, joined me halfway in Courmayeur in the second week.

Jump to: Budgeting

camping le tour chamonix

Getting there:

The most common starting point for the hike would be either Chamonix on the French side or Courmayeur on the Italian side. These two towns are connected via a tunnel that goes right through the base of the Mont Blanc.

For international travelers, there are multiple main cities with international airports located at a couple of hours distance. The Swiss city of Geneva offers a direct bus route to Chamonix, and some to Courmayeur. Alternatively, there’s also direct bus connection from the Italian city of Turin to both towns.

There are plenty of bus operator companies offering the route, such as Swiss Tours , BlaBlaBus , FlixBus , EasyBus to name a few. All buses stop at Chamonix-SUD bus station, or at Courmayeur’s Piazzale Monte Bianco, both are very close to the city center. Tickets can be bought online.

Day 0: Arriving at Chamonix + day hike

I arrived at Chamonix from the Geneva airport, and then did a day hike around the beautiful area before starting the TMB trek.

Camping site Chamonix: Les Arolles , located very close to Chamonix-SUD bus station.

Camping site info: €11.5 per person or €18.6 per 2 persons. Hot shower is for free! There is a small open air communal area with one picnic table and power socket, but tend to get very overcrowded.

Food supply availability: Plenty of supermarkets and other food shops available in Chamonix, such as Super U and SPAR . Camping stove gas and fuel are also available in one of the many outdoor shops .

Alternative camping site in Les Houches: Camping Bellevue , located very close to the starting point of TMB.

Tent at Camping Les Arolles Chamonix

Day 1: Chamonix – Les Houches – Les Contamines-Montjoie

I started the TMB trek by boarding the bus from Chamonix to Les Houches where the official starting point is located.

Camping site Les Contamines-Montjoie: Camping Le Pontet , located about another 30 minutes walk further down the TMB trail from the center of Les Contamines-Montjoie.

Camping site info: €10.2 per person or €15.8 per 2 persons. Hot shower is for free! There are some picnic tables with parasol for communal use. Power socket is available around the shower area.

Food supply availability: There are supermarkets available in the town of Les Contamines-Montjoie ( Carrefour and Spar ). Stock up for the next day too since in Les Chapieux there’s no proper supermarket.

Mind you that you’d first pass the town before reaching the camping site and thus I’d recommend to drop by the shops before going to the camping site. A restaurant is also available at the camping site for those with bigger budget.

TMB waypoint

Day 2: Les Contamines-Montjoie – Les Chapieux

This is arguably the hardest leg of the TMB route, with a distance of over 18 km and over 1300 meters of ascend and 900 meters of descend.

Camping site Les Chapieux: Open air camping , located on a big open field in the beautiful valley.

Camping site info: Free camping! It’s an unmanned camping ground, thus no facility. No shower available, only a small building with toilet and a wash basin with ice cold water. No communal area available, neither power socket. The whole valley has no mobile internet access as of 2019, so you’d might want to remind your relatives and friends not to worry if they don’t hear from you for one night.

Food supply availability: No supermarket in the area, but there is a small deli selling limited assortments of basic and local products, albeit at an elevated price. I spent around €5 for only croissant, boiled egg, and small yogurt, hence my advice to stock up from Les Contamines-Montjoie.

Les Chapieux camping site

Day 3: Les Chapieux – Camping Aiguille Noire (outskirt of Courmayeur)

Many people would break this leg by staying in Rifugio Elisabetta hut halfway through the trek. But in order to camp, I had to continue further to the camping site located in the outskirt of Courmayeur, taking a bit of a detour from the official TMB route.

For the same reason, I chose to shorten the route by taking the bus from Les Chapieux to Refuge Des Mottets which would take two hours walking. Mind you that this bus would fill up very quickly and it is recommended to buy the ticket the day before or queue at least half an hour before. The bus schedule can easily be found in the small building next to the Les Chapieux camping site.

Camping site Courmayeur (outskirt): Aiguille Noire , technically not in Courmayeur itself, but on the outskirt before entering the town. There are no camping sites available in Courmayeur.

Camping site info: €12.5 per person or €20 per 2 persons. Hot shower costs €0.5 for about 5 minutes. There is a communal building with tables and power socket is available.

Food supply availability: There is a mini market at the camping site selling many kinds of products at a slightly elevated price, but still reasonable. Another option would be to take the bus from the bus stop in front of the camping ground to Carrefour supermarket at La Saxe Pontal bus stop. There is a restaurant at the camping site though.

Alternative camping site Courmayeur (outskirt): HOBO Val Veny , located right next to Aiguille Noire.

Rifugio Elisabetta

Day 4: Day hike around Camping Aiguille Noire

Since I had to wait for my partner’s arrival in Courmayeur on day 6, I did a day hike in the mountains around the camping site Aiguille Noire , which was not part of the official TMB route itself, but no less stunning nevertheless.

This further highlights the advantage and flexibility of camping, since I could simply inform the camping owner that I’d stay for another night.

Note: For those who would continue with the TMB route to Courmayeur, simply follow the green route indicated in the map. Remember that there is no camping site in Courmayeur and you’d have to stay in a hotel or bed & breakfast. Alternatively, you could camp in Plampincieux, also located in the outskirt of Courmayeur (see Day 5 route below).

Val Veny Courmayeur

Day 5: Day hike around Plampincieux

I moved from Camping Aiguille Noire to the camping site in Plampincieux by bus, with a transfer in Courmayeur. From there I then started a day hike which covered most of the TMB route.

Camping site Plampincieux: Grandes Jorasses , located in a pine forest area in Plampincieux, an area outside Courmayeur.

Camping site info: €~10-12 per person or €~20 per 2 persons. Hot shower costs €0.5 for ~100 seconds(!), so get your soap and shampoo ready. There is no communal room apart from the restaurant where you can sit if you purchase something. There is a power socket available above the sink in the wash area.

Food supply availability: A mini market at the camping site sells limited assortment of products, although at elevated price. It’s best to shop beforehand in Courmayeur ( Carrefour supermarket at La Saxe Pontal bus stop). The restaurant at the camping site also serves some food.

Alternative camping site Plampincieux: Tronchey , located further down the road from camping Grandes Jorasses.

Note: To continue with the TMB route from Courmayeur, simply follow the green route indicated in the map, which would join the day hike that I did around Plampincieux above Rifugio Giorgio Bertone . Mind you that this TMB leg would end up at Rifugio Walter Bonatti in the mountain, and the nearest camping possibility would be to go back down to Grandes Jorasses or Tronchey.

Camping Grandes Jorasses

Day 6: Rendesvouz at Courmayeur

I stayed at the same camping site Grandes Jorasses in Plampincieux, this time for two persons after I picked up my partner at Courmayeur for hiking the second half of TMB together.

Again, I could simply inform the camping manager in the morning that my partner would join in the tent for the second night and it’s arranged.

Since we were in Courmayeur, there were more options for food supply, such as from Carrefour in the city center. We could also purchase another gas/fuel canister from one of the outdoor shops in Courmayeur.

camping le tour chamonix

Day 7: Plampincieux – Fouly

To continue with the TMB trek, we took the bus from the camping site in Plampincieux to the base of Col Ferret where the TMB route starts again. Officially, the TMB route runs from Rifugio Walter Bonatti to the base of Col Ferret, shown in green in the map.

Camping site Fouly: Camping des Glaciers , possibly the camping site with the best view, located on a big plain downstream of a glacial river with mountain glaciers visible in the distance.

Camping site info: CHF 29.6 per person or CHF 39.2 per 2 persons (man, Switzerland is expensive!). Hot shower is available for free. There is also a large communal room with tables and power sockets.

Food supply availability: The camping reception sells some snacks although it’s best to go to the supermarket in the nearby town center. Again, mind you that everything in Switzerland is expensive, including the supermarket.

Camping des Glaciers

Day 8: Fouly – Champex

This is one of the easiest leg since it does not involve a lot of ascend and descent. The route also passes several towns where you could easily eat or take a break in one of the cafes or restaurants.

Camping site Champex: Les Rocailles , located further down the street from the Champex lake.

Camping site info: CHF 25.6 per person, CHF 35.2 per 2 persons. Hot shower is available for free, and there is a small communal area in front of the reception with power socket available.

Food supply availability: There is a supermarket in Champex, although the options are not as diverse as in bigger towns. We recommend to stock up for the next day too since there is virtually no shop in Peuty, the destination of the next day.

Bier by Champex lake

Day 9: Champex – Peuty

Similar to the previous day, this day’s route entirely in Switzerland is also not very heavy.

Camping site Peuty: open air camping site , located on an open field in the valley.

Camping site info: Donation of CHF 6 for the camping site’s maintenance. A person usually comes once a day in late afternoon to collect the donation. At that time some people did not have CHF but only euro and the attendant grumpily exempted them from paying.

There are plastic portable shower cabins available but you’d have to be lucky to get hot water. Mine had glacial water and my partner had warm water. There is also a small roofed area with tables as a communal area, but no power socket available.

Food supply availability: None, nothing, nada. That’s why it’s better to stock up food from Champex. For those who are desperate, there is a small cafe at Refuge Le Peuty selling sandwiches and some other foods.

Camping Le Peuty

Day 10: Peuty – Tre Le Champ

After this day’s hike, you’d leave expensive Switzerland behind and can enjoy lower price again for everything.

Camping site Tre Le Champ: Pierre Semard .

Camping site info: €~10-12 per person, €~20 per 2 persons. Hot shower is available and there are power sockets at the large communal area equipped with many tables.

Food supply availability: There is a supermarket in the nearby town Argentiere, a lovely small town. The camping site has a restaurant as well though.

Alternative camping site Argentiere: Camping du Glacier , located a bit removed from the TMB trail itself in Argentiere.

Camping Pierre Semard

Day 11: Tre Le Champ – Chamonix

This is the last leg that we undertook in the TMB hike to return to Chamonix. Officially, you would only stop at Refuge La Flegere here and continue the next day to Les Houches (blue route in the map).

Camping site Chamonix: Les Arolles .

Aternative camping site in Les Houches: Camping Bellevue , located very close to the starting point of TMB.

Finally completing the TMB! See information about Chamonix on Day 0 above.

There are two main expenses for the trip, namely on the accommodation and food . In this part I’d detail how we did the budgeting for the two weeks trip in this particularly expensive region.

Camping cost

In the first six days I camped solo before my partner joined me for another six days of hiking together. Here are the cost breakdown:

In the end the camping cost added up to around €186.3, or say, rounded up to €190 for 12-days trip’s worth of accommodation. That amounted to around €10.6 per person per night. In towns in the Alps you’d easily spend €190 on only two or three nights in a modest hotel. In Switzerland maybe just one night.

Rifugio Monte Bianco

Food strategy and cost

During the entire trip we did not once eat out despite the temptation of some of the restaurants at the camping sites. We always got our food supplies in the supermarket and cooked ourselves. Water was always free either at camping sites or at water sources along the trail.

Morning coffee Les Contamines

Mostly plenty of bread such as croissant or pain au chocolat which were ubiquitous in France and Switzerland, accompanied by yogurt with oatmeal. We brought our own coffee powder and tea to freshly prepare these mood-boosting warm hot drinks every morning.

Average cost: ~€3 per person (expect higher price in Switzerland). As a comparison, a cup of coffee in and a croissant a cafe would already cost €~5.

On trail snack:

Our all time favorite is cereal bar, packed with energy and easy to carry, which can be found in almost every supermarket. We also like to bring some small salami or mixed nuts (e.g. almond, cashew) for extra protein and energy. Cost would be around €2-3 per person .

Picking blueberries during TMB

Mostly crackers or sandwiches with ham or cheese bought the previous day, accompanied by cherry tomatoes or other vegetables and fruit. Don’t forget to try the typically local Gruyere cheese that can be found in Swiss supermarkets.

Average cost: €4-5 per person (of course a bit higher in Switzerland). You definitely could not eat lunch in a restaurant during the hike. But sometimes you could find some mountain hut/refuge offering lunch along the trail, which can set you back around €12-20 for a hearty lunch.

Lunch at Val Veny

This is the time to prepare warm meal. We bought camping gas/fuel in Chamonix and Courmayeur, costing around €5-8 per canister, for our mini camping stove (Primus Express).

We cooked mainly pasta or noodles. We prepared pasta with ready made sauce, and we just added e.g. tuna, bacon, mushroom. Instant noodles or rice vermicelli can also be found in various supermarkets and we cooked that with added tuna or bacon. We topped that with a pre-cut salad mix or other vegetables to make it complete and healthy.

Average cost: €5-7 per person (+occasional beer €~1.5 extra). Dining in a restaurant costs a fortune in the Alps mountain towns; expect to shell out upwards of €20 per person.

Cooking at camping Grandes Jorasses

Total food cost:

The total spent on food for the 12-days trip ( €252-324 ) would definitely range widely depending on how much you’d like to eat and splurge. The estimate given here is already quite generous in our opinion.

We tended to stay on the lower end of the daily cost range, but sometimes treated ourselves to something more pricey, such as the Swiss Gruyere cheese or a bottle of beer from the local Italian brewery.

I would not even bother to calculate how much you’d spend eating out three times a day for the whole 12 days in this super expensive region. Spoiler: a lot!

To sum up the camping and food cost, we spent around €442-514, or say, rounded up to €450-520 , for 12-days trip for one person plus 6-days trip for another one. That translates to roughly €25-29 per person per day .

Of course other extra cost should be added too, such as the flight ticket (we flew Amsterdam-Geneva return for around €130 per person) and bus fare to Chamonix or Courmayeur, which typically costs €25-40 return. These brought the grand total to around €850 for the both of us.

That concludes my detailed low budget guide to camping sites and food supplies for hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB). Hope that can help and inspire you to plan and tackle this truly legendary and amazing long distance hiking route. Feel free to drop any question. Happy hiking!

Start of TMB Col Ferret

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About author.

Born and raised in Indonesia, bitten by the travel bug since moving to Europe.

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Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc

Hiking in the Alps, is there a better way to spend summer holidays? In August 2020, when the coronavirus situation in Europe had improved a bit during the summer, we decided to go hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the most iconic long distance treks in the Alps. Normally, the trail is very busy in August, but as many hikers had to cancel their treks that summer, the paths were not crowded at all. In this post we first shortly introduce what Tour du Mont Blanc, also known as TMB, is all about, and explain how we hiked it without using the rather expensive mountain hut accommodations, but camping instead.

Table of Contents

Tour du Mont Blanc trail Camping Tour du Mont Blanc Our TMB hike in August 2020 – Day 1 Les Houches to Les Contamines via Col de Tricot – Day 2 Camping Le Pontet to Refuge Mottets via Col des Fours – Day 3 Refuge Mottets to La Visaille and Val Ferret – Day 4 Rest day in Val Ferret and Courmayer – Day 5 Val Ferret to La Fouly in a storm – Day 6 La Fouly to Champex Lac – Day 7 Camping d’Arpette to Trient via Fenetre d’Arpette – Day 8 Trient to Tre-le-Champ – Day 9 Tre-le-Champ to Chamonix via Lac Blanc How much hiking and camping TMB costs? What we learned and would do differently?

Tour du Mont Blanc trail

Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic Alpine hike and often on the lists of the most spectacular hiking trails in Europe, if not in the whole world. The trail runs around the Mont Blanc Massif, through amazing landscapes in three different countries; France, Italy and Switzerland. The length of the traditional trail is around 165 km (103 miles), but there are several alternative trails that can either shorten or lengthen the trek. The hike takes the trekkers over several mountain passes and through seven scenic mountain valleys. This means a lot of ascent and descent during the hike, altogether around 11 000 meters (36 000 feet), or even more, if you choose to walk some of the higher trail variants.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

TMB is traditionally divided in 11 stages, and most of the hikers follow the 11-day itinerary, possibly with some rest days on the way. As TMB runs through some towns and villages, the trail is easy to reach, and hikers can stop on the way to spend a night in a hotel or eat in restaurants – or choose to just walk through the towns and stop in mountain huts and smaller villages instead. The trail is popular, well marked and in good condition, so it’s mostly easy to walk and follow. There are a lot of both free and paid online resources about TMB and planning your hike, with useful maps and information about the different stages of the hike, the accommodation options and the towns and villages on the way, but not so much about camping Tour du Mont Blanc, so in this post we share some experiences and hopefully useful information about that.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Camping Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du Mont Blanc is “meant” to be hiked staying in the mountain refugees. Some of these huts are quite basic, some resemble small guesthouses and some are more fancy, but all of them offer accommodation and serve food. The easiest way to hike TMB is to walk from hut to hut, eating breakfast and dinner in the huts, and maybe even buying take-away lunch from them. There are a lot of tour operators that can help with booking the accommodation and meals, or it can be done independently, e-mailing or calling the huts to make reservations. If hut-to-hut hike would be your thing, note that some of the huts get fully booked very early, at least for August.

Camping Le Peuty | Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Camping TMB means that you’ll need to carry your tent, sleeping pad and sleeping bag, as well as enough clothes to keep you warm and dry in the changing weather conditions. Also, unless you are planning to stop in huts for meals, you’ll need to carry food and cooking equipment, and of course some water. There are grocery stores in the towns and villages on the way, so you won’t need to carry everything for the whole trek, just plan ahead where and when you’ll stock up. Unless your tent and other camping equipment are light-weighted, be prepared for carrying a quite heavy backpack, which can make the ascents and descents of the trail very demanding. TMB with a heavy load in your back is not a trek for those who are out of shape, so know you limits and practice for the hike, unless you are an experienced mountain trail hiker. On the other hand, camping TMB provides much more flexibility, as there is no need to book the camping sites ahead like the huts (that said, in August it might be wise to check ahead if there is space, especially if Covid-19 restrictions still limit the capacity of the sites).

Campind d'Arpette | Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

As possibilities to (legally) wild camp are very limited in all three countries, the hikers should stay in the official camping sites and assigned camping areas. This makes planning the hike somewhat challenging, as especially in Italian section, the camping areas are too far apart. However, there are buses running in the valleys on both sides of the town of Cormayer, so it’s possible to utilize them to reach a camping area, and to return back to the trail the next day. In general, wild camping is forbidden in the valleys, but some of the huts, like Refuge Mottets and Refuge La Flegere  in France, allow wild camping close to them.

Lacs de Cheserys | Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Our TMB hike (and gear) in August 2020

We hiked TMB anticlockwise (this is how most of the hikers do it), starting from Les Houches village near Chamonix in France. Before starting the hike, we stayed the previous night in a camping site in Chamonix, so that we could start the hike first thing on the morning. Tip for those who come to Chamonix by own car – there are free parking areas in Les Houches, one right next to the Prarion cable car station and another, bigger area on the other side of the main road, next to the Lac des Chavants lake.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

It’s often said that you need sturdy hiking boots for doing mountain hikes like TMB, but we actually did the hike wearing old trail running shoes, and still after the hike thought that it was a great choice, even with all the load in our backs. And yes, running shoes do get soaking wet if it rains a lot or if there are bigger streams to cross, but they also dry super quickly. Regarding the gear otherwise, our backpacks weighted from around 12 to over 16 kilos, depending on the amount of food and water each day. That is kind of an okay weight to carry still, but I’d say that around 10 kilos would be ideal for such a demanding hike. That would require investing in a lightweight tent and other gear though. Walking sticks were a nice add to the gear – we hadn’t used them before and were a bit skeptical, but they made especially the descents easier for the knees. In addition to camping and cooking gear and clothes we carried torches / headlamps, a first-aid kit, cellphones, a small action camera, a power bank, chargers and cables. We had planned and uploaded our route (and optional routes) beforehand in our sports watches (with GPS tracking), which made following the trail, as well as measuring distance and ascent/descent, super easy.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Day 1 Les Houches to Les Contamines via Col de Tricot (Camping du Pontet)

When starting the hike from Les Houches , it was all about ascent from the first steps. Some hikers choose to use the Bellevue cable car to get up to Col de Voza mountain pass, but we preferred to walk (the cable car is rather expensive, and hey, we came here to hike!). We were full of energy and eager to walk up quickly, but quite soon realized, that carrying all the stuff on our backs is really going to make the hike strenuous. However, we still decided to take the alternative route variant via Col de Tricot , since we had heard that it’s more interesting than the traditional one, plus includes crossing a glazier river along a suspension bridge. Naturally, choosing this higher route meant more ascent and descent to the already rather demanding first day.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

It was a warm and sunny day, and the views were great. There was quite a lot of hikers, especially around the upper station of the Bellevue cable car, which is also the end station of the Mont Blanc tramway. Most of the people were day hikers though, and closer to Les Contamines the trails got a lot quieter. The descent to the village was tough for the knees, and we were happy to finally reach Les Contamines and to stop and buy cold beers from a supermarket. The village is rather pretty, and it was quite busy too. Our destination was still 2,5 km hike away though, so we continued walking in the valley, following the river, until we arrived in Camping du Pontet . It was a tough first day for sure, as we were not yet adapted to the long days of walking. Happy but tired, we cooked some pasta dinner and fell asleep early.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Stats of day 1: 20 km, 1380 meters ascent / 1200 meters descent, 6,5 hours walking time (breaks excluded)

Day 2 Camping Le Pontet to Refuge Mottets via Col des Fours (wild camping)

Awake at six and ready for a new hiking day! The first mile from the camping site is along a flat trail, great for stretching the legs and getting prepared for the long walk ahead. And when the ascent began, the climb was long, from around 1180 elevation meters to 2665 meters, phew! We first followed the classic trail to Col du Bonhomme , and then took the higher variant to Col des Fours . We chose this both for the views and for being able to stay the night near Refuge Mottets instead of down in Les Chapieux village. It was a hot day, with burning sun and cloudless skies. Carrying the backpacks up to the mountain passes was a super-sweaty exercise, but the scenery was absolutely stunning. Up in Col des Fours there was still some snow left, but not really on the trail anymore, just some small patches here and there.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

After reaching this pass, the downhill section of the day begun. It also started to get cloudy, and we could feel the rain in the air way before it actually reached us, just few hundred meters before arriving in Refuge de Mottets. Instead of finding a place to our tent by some ruined buildings right before a stream-crossing, we walked to the mountain hut first. It was a great decision, because it was soon pouring down, and a thunder storm raised. We were lucky to be in a warm shelter, sipping beer and watching the storm through the windows. I’m not sure if I have ever witnessed such rain, it was really bucketing down. Meanwhile, the stream close to the shelter had turned into a river, and it even took the footbridge with it. Crossing the stream without it would have been quite dangerous. When the storm finally passed, we set up our camp quite close to the hut, not sure if the place was “allowed” or not, but we didn’t have much choice. This was a tiring day, and the night was a bit restless too. Luckily our tent kept all the water outside even if it was a very wet night.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

19,5 km, 1500 / 900 meters, 7 hours walking

Day 3 Refuge Mottets to La Visaille and Val Ferret (Camping Grandes Jorasses)

We woke up early and packed the camp, as we wanted to disassemble the tent soon after the sunrise. We started walking around seven, up towards the next mountain pass. As soon as we reached a sunny spot on the hillside, we stopped to make some breakfast and to dry our gear a bit. It was a beautiful morning, and even instant coffee tasted amazingly good when watching the sunshine reaching the valley below us. Also this day naturally began with some ascent, and our legs felt heavy and tired, even if the climb to the next pass was only 650 vertical meters. The view from Col de la Seigne on the border of France and Italy (2515 m) was a great reward though, it was a stunningly beautiful scenery! The snow-capped mountains glared in the sun, and we could see Mont Blanc too.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

After admiring the scenery for a while, it was time to continue. The descent all the way to Rifugio Elizabetta was very beautiful. Our plan was to walk all the way to Courmayer along the trail that day, but after Elizabetta, when the downhill section got more boring, we started to realize how tired we actually were, and that walking to Courmayer along the trail would mean still a notable amount of both ascent and especially descent. So, even if we knew that the views from the ridge close to the town would be great, we decided to continue walking down in Val Veny valley instead of following the trail up to the ridge on the south side of the valley. In La Visaille , we hopped in a bus (that was free of charge in 2020) to Courmayer . After some grocery shopping we took another bus to get to Camping Grandes Jorasses camping site in Val Ferret . A hot shower felt amazing and food tasted so good! We decided to stay two nights and have a day-off from walking, to give our tired legs a chance to recover.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

“Fun” fact: Val Ferret was closed for a week or so before our arrival, as there was a threat that one of the glaciers above the valley would break, dropping a huge amount of ice to the valley. Luckily this didn’t happen, and the roads and camping sites were opened again.

15 km, 650 / 800 meters, 4,5 hours walking

Day 4 Rest day in Val Ferret and Courmayer

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Day 5 Val Ferret to La Fouly in a storm (Camping des Glaciers)

This was supposed to be another super long hiking day. The original plan had been to take a bus to Courmayer, start the walk from there and combine the stages 5 and 6 of the trail. When we realized that 31 km with a huge amount of ascent and descent would be to much, the next plan was to start the walk from the camping site, walking up to the ridge and rejoin the trail there, then walk above Val Ferret to Rifugio Bonatti and continue over Col Ferret pass on the border of Switzerland and down to La Fouly. That would still have been a very demanding day, and as there was a storm coming, we decided to shorten the hike even more, to be able to reach the high mountain pass before the storm. So we took a morning bus up Val Ferret valley, and started the walk from Arnuova , with a climb towards Col Ferret. Nevertheless, our plan to avoid the thunder storm and rain failed miserably. It had been a cloudy morning, and soon it also started to rain. First it was just a mild rain, but on our way up, the thunder storm got closer, and the weather turned very windy too. Soon the quick hike up turned into a wet and muddy struggle, and the thunder roared around us. It felt crazy to be there, with no shelter, but going back down wouldn’t have helped much either. We had seen some other hikers rushing up ahead of us, so we just decided to follow, thinking that if they can do it, we can too.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

The storm passed and the rain stopped before we made it up to Col Ferret . We stopped to change clothes and to watch how the clouds above Val Ferret started to disperse, slowly giving way to beautiful mountain views. In Col Ferret we considered following the mountain ridge to Petit Col Ferret, to take an alternative route down to La Fouly from there. We finally decided against it though, as we knew that the descent from Petit Col Ferret would be more steep, and after the storm it could be muddy and slippery. Shortly after continuing the walk down from Grand Col Ferret, the sun came out, and the afternoon was very beautiful. The scenery was again wonderful, and the path was easy to walk. Before reaching the bottom of the valley we decided to take an alternative path that runs above the valley, as the actual trail partly just follows a road to La Fouly, and that section is maybe a bit boring. In La Fouly we set up our camp in Camping des Glaziers, a big and busy site with nice views.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

As we shortened the hike a lot in Val Ferret due to the storm, it was an “easy” and short hiking day.

15 km, 770 / 970 m, 4,5 hours walking

Day 6 La Fouly to Champex Lac (Camping d’Arpette)

On fifth walking day we followed the classic itinerary and walked the Stage 7 from La Fouly to Champex Lac. Many people who decide to skip some part of TMB, skip this stage and take a bus between these two towns. It’s true that this stage doesn’t offer such breathtaking mountain views as most of the other stages, but it’s still a beautiful walk in Swiss Ferret Valley , and takes you also through some picturesque old villages. After running in the bottom of the valley the path dives into a forest, and then it’s a nice and easy ascent to Champex Lac , a nice-looking town by a beautiful lake.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

We bought some more groceries from an (expensive) supermarket in town, and continued still a bit further. As we had planned to take the d’Arpette variant the next day, we chose to stay the night in Camping d’Arpette , that is along this alternative route instead of the classic TMB. We cooked some dinner and made plans for the next day. It was supposed to be a sunny day with clear skies, which is perfect for the d’Arpette variant, that includes a steep ascent and descent over Fenetre d’Arpette. We were thinking, that if we’d feel energetic after that climb, we could maybe continue to French side on the same day, combining two stages of TMB.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

17,5 km, 580 / 550 m, 4,5 hours walking

Day 7 Camping d’Arpette to Trient via Fenetre d’Arpette (Camping Le Peuty)

Another beautiful morning after a chilly night. We got up quite early, and started the hike at eight, after having some breakfast and packing our camp again. For the first kilometers, it was a gentle ascent next to some grazing lands and forest. Then the more steep and rocky climb towards Fenetre d’Arpette began. We tried to walk quickly, but the terrain gets the more challenging the higher up you get, and especially with the big and heavy backpacks, it was a very long and slow climb. When we finally reached the ridge, the amazing views from there were a nice reward though, and we took some time to just stretch our legs and take in the scenery. D’Arpette variant takes you very close to Glacier de Trient , so the views from up there are quite unique.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Soon after starting the climb down from the ridge we realized that getting up hadn’t been the hardest part. The descent is long and steep, and a killer for the knees. But it’s scenic. We needed to bury our alternative plan to take a “shortcut” and continue all the way to Tre-le-Champ the same day, as it would have been way too demanding. So we continued along the D’Arpette trail to Peuty in Trient , a tiny little hamlet with a super basic but also cheap camping area outside Refuge Le Peuty . There are no actual grocery stores in the village, but there is a cute little self-service store that sells local products like cheese and bread and some basic stuff aimed for hikers, like tuna, eggs and pasta.

This was a short hiking day measured in distance, but included quite some challenging climbing both up and down.

13 km, 1050 / 1290 m, 5,5 hours walking

Day 8 Trient to Tre-le-Champ (Auberge La Boerne camping)

We started the 7th walking day early, under sunny skies. The task for the day was quite easy, the short Stage 9 of TMB, from Trient in Switzerland to Tre-le-Champ in France, over Col de Balme pass. This stage comes with over 1000 meters ascent, but as it’s not very steep at any point, it’s a nice and easy walk up. On the morning we first walked uphill along a nice path running through a forest, and then reached the treeless slope up to the ridge, that also marks the country border. Up in Col de Palme the views towards Mont Blanc Massif were amazing, and we stopped to make some hot chocolate and to admire the scenery.

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Descent from the pass was as gentle as the ascent had been, a nice and scenic walk down, and then a bit back up again before starting the final descent to the next valley and Tre-le-Champ village. Last kilometers of the day were again about walking in a forest. We set up our tent outside Auberge La Boerne , a cute lodge that has both rooms and a camping area. The plan for the rest of the day was to walk down to Argentiere to explore the town and to do some grocery shopping for a dinner. However, it was Sunday, and down in the village we learned that the shops were not open, except for some expensive tourist stores. So we decided to buy some pastries from a cafe for a quick lunch, and to eat dinner in a guest house for once – so far we had cooked all meals during the hike ourselves, except for having pizzas in Courmayer. It was nice to get together with other hikers over a dinner, and we also had some local craft beers.

In the evening it started to rain again, and the forecast for the next day was not too promising; only 1 hour of sunshine in the morning and otherwise a cloudy and rainy day. We were considering having a rest day, but then again, the forecast was rather bad also for the next couple of days.

13,5 km, 1070 / 980 m, 4,5 hours walking

Day 9 Tre-le-Champ to Chamonix via Lac Blanc

After a rainy night with some thunder, the morning was surprisingly fine and even sunny. We decided to go on, and to make this the last day of the hike, combining Stages 10 and 11 and ending the hike either in Chamonix, or if feeling super-energetic, trying to continue all the way to Les Houches. The first section of the hike was an easy ascent through a forest. The skies were quite clear, and we were happy that it was dry, since the climb up on top of the ridge above Argentiere includes a section with several ladders . Some say, that it’s a difficult part, but we found it quite easy actually, even with the backpacks, so I guess it depends on how experienced you are. Wouldn’t recommend to those with vertigo though, but there is an alternative trail without ladders too. During the climb we could see how it got very cloudy down in Chamonix valley. We knew that clouds would soon prevent the views towards the mountain massif, so we tried to hurry up. We took yet another alternative trail to Lac Blanc lake, as we had seen amazing pictures of Lac De Cheserys, smaller mountain lakes close to Lac Blanc. Due to cloudy weather, we didn’t get to see the perfect reflections of the mountains in the lakes, but they were beautiful nevertheless.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Up in Lac Blanc we walked around a bit, before continuing back down to Le Flegere cable car station, that marks the end of Stage 10 of the hike. Then it was time to decide the route for the rest of the day, but it would have been also possible to wild camp outside Refuge Le Flegere. In clear weather, TMB section 11, that runs along a mountain ridge above Chamonix before descending to Les Houches, is said to be one of the most beautiful parts of the whole hike, with superb views towards Mont Blanc. However, it was already so cloudy, that we could barely even see the massif anymore, so we decided to walk down to Chamonix instead. Also, we were quite sore and tired already, and walking to Les Houches would have meant a very long hiking day. As we didn’t want to walk along a road, we followed paths instead, and mostly walked in a forest. The descent was long, altogether 1360 vertical meters and our legs were really aching when we were finally down in Chamonix. It also started to rain as soon as we reached the village, so it really felt like a good time to end the hike. We returned to Les Houches and our car by bus, and stayed still another night camping in Chamonix.

16,5 km, 1040 / 1360 m, 6 hours walking

Total length of this shortened version of TMB was 130 km , and the eight walking days included in total over 8 000 meters both ascent and descent . Total walking time was 43 hours . Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc was an unforgettable experience, scenic, tough, rewarding, fun.

How much hiking and camping TMB costs?

Hiking Tour du Mont Blanc can be quite expensive, if you stay in the mountain huts or hotels and eat out a lot, and especially if you also use a tour operator to take care of the bookings and maybe even to transport your gear from hut to hut. Camping TMB is not free either, but a lot cheaper option than staying in the huts.

Total costs of our hike were 540 € for the two of us together. Accommodation costs were 184 €, and include 9 nights in camping sites. Both the cheapest and the most expensive camping site was in Switzerland – night in Camping des Glaciers cost over 32 EUR, and in the (very basic) Camping Le Peuty only 12 EUR. Restaurant costs were 201 EUR altogether. We ate out only twice, once in Italy and once in France, and the meals for two cost 20 EUR and 34 EUR. The rest, 147 € were beers bought from the refuges and wine with the restaurant meals (so this money would be easy to save, but on the other hand, it feels simply great to have a cold beer after a hiking day). We cooked most of the meals ourselves, and the grocery costs during the hike were altogether 140 EUR. In addition we used 16 EUR for other purchases, mainly for camping gas and some band-aids and other first-aid stuff.

What we learned or would do differently?

As said, this hike was truly an amazing experience. Hiking and camping TMB is not a walk in a park, but not super difficult either, and for us it was the first long-distance hike ever with all camping gear. We have hiked quite a lot, and often cover long distances and great elevation changes during our day hikes, but that is clearly a different thing than hiking up and down on the mountains for several days in a row, with a heavy backpack. A hike like this is very hard on the legs, especially knees, but also quite tough for the whole body, and possibly for the mind too. It also consumes a lot of energy, so it’s important to pay attention on the nutrition, and of course to drink a lot of water.

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

We have no regrets really, even if it would have been great to not skip any parts of the hike, especially not some of the most scenic sections. On the other hand, we took shortcuts mostly due to bad weather, which means that the views wouldn’t have been too good anyways. I suppose it’s quite rare to get to walk the whole circle under clear skies only, unless you reserve a lot of time and build your hiking schedule according to the weather. Allowing enough time for the hike is advisable in any weather, it makes no sense to ruin the hike with rush, trying to cover super-long daily distances or to be the first in the hut or camping site. For competitive people it can be surprisingly challenging to focus on your own pace and to enjoy the journey instead of focusing on “completing” each day. So, slow down, breathe, relax – it’s an amazingly beautiful hike, not a race! 

Tour du Mont Blanc definitely wasn’t our last long-distance hike, and we are eager to hit some new mountain trails next summer!

Lacs de Cheserys | Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | FinnsAway travel blog

Have you hiked TMB or are you planning to? Share your thoughts, experiences and questions in the comments!

Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc mountain trail in the Alps | trail map by chamonix.net

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4 Responses

This is a nice written summary about your TMB hike! Thank you. I did take note for my hike next year in 2022! I decided to forego the camping idea but will stay in refuges, huts, hotels ec… The food and social aspect that i want to experience. I haven’t done JMT, Wonderland Trails but this one, i would call luxurous thru-hike so i will pack light as always and enjoy the journey! I did enjoy reading your blog. Dan

Thank you Dan! I’m sure you’ll have great time doing TMB in 2022, it’s a wonderful trail! Even when camping, it’s actually very easy to meet other hikers, and as many camping sites are close to huts, you can visit the huts too, having meals or discussing about the hike over cold beers 🙂 Checked out your page about John Muir Trail – sounds like an adventure, and the pictures are beautiful!

great trip ! What period in August was this? I’m trying to set may departure date but don’t know if 16 or 23 august makes much difference. If I choose 23 maybe the nights would be colder as we approach September.

It was a wonderful experience for sure! I should add more exact dates also to the blog, good point. We started at 9th of August and finished on 17th. Of course not every summer is the same, but in general I don’t think it makes a lot of difference if you leave on 16th or 23th, it’s always possible that there can be chilly nights and in theory there can be snowfall too up in the higher slopes. The Mont Blanc Ultra Trail is this year 22nd to 28th of August, so the trail will be (at times) very busy during that time. All the best for your hike!

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camping le tour chamonix

The Ultimate guide to solo hiking & camping the Tour du Mont Blanc

Crossing through France, Italy, and Switzerland to circle Western Europe’s highest peak, the 180km Tour du Mont Blanc trek is part epic alpine adventure,  part authentic cultural experience , but entirely unforgettable. There are few routes in the Alps that rival the iconic TMB, and it’s a combination of the dramatic natural scenery and the charming mountain villages that have made this trek a fast favourite among mountain-lovers. Impressed by everything I’d seen and heard, I set out to solo hike the Tour du Mont Blanc a few weeks ago, and I can truly say it was nothing short of life-changing. Considerably more ambitious than the hikes I usually do, the TMB pushed me to the edge of my physical limits, but also reminded me that sheer determination is greater than any aching muscle or blister (of which there were many). And the views are always that much sweeter when you earn them in dirt, sweat, and tears!

I learned a lot when I was prepping for this hike, and of course even more when I was actually out on the trail, so here’s my guide to preparing for all aspects of your own solo Tour du Mont Blanc hike, including getting to the trailhead, planning your route, what to expect at the campsites, food/water on the trail, and a comprehensive packing list.

What's in this travel guide

This post contains several affiliate links to products that I use and love. By clicking on these links, I might get a teeny tiny contribution towards my travel fund, at no extra cost to you! 

camping le tour chamonix

Postcard-perfect view of Mont Blanc from Lac Blanc

About the Tour du Mont Blanc

Widely regarded as one of the best hikes in the entire world, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a moderately challenging 180km circuit that begins in Les Houches, France , a small town just beside the immensely popular Chamonix ski resort. The route circumnavigates beautiful Mont Blanc (4,810m),  ascending 11 mountain passes and racking up around 10,000m in elevation gain/loss through France, Italy, and Switzerland . Most people complete the hike in 8-12 days, often with one rest day in Courmayeur or Champex. And while strenuous, the TMB is actually achievable for most passionate hikers— the navigational demands are minimal, small villages with food and supplies are frequent, and there are plenty of ways to make the hike as easy or challenging as you want. So long as you’re motivated to get up and over the next pass, you’ll be celebrating in Chamonix in no time!

The scenery alone should catapult the TMB to the top of your bucket list, but the wonderful food and people along the trail are also a big part of what makes this trek so special . In fact, the TMB may ruin you for all other hikes— why isn’t there cheese and wine for sale on every trail! Plus, hikers come from all over the world to walk around snow-capped Mont Blanc, so you can expect to make lots of new friends as you tackle a Col together or swap stories over dinner at the campsite. This is a social experience as much as it is an outdoor adventure.

Even though it’s possible to do the TMB with a guided tour, this is a really safe and simple hike to do independently , so there’s just no need. Not only was this the longest hike I’d ever done, but it was my first time hiking completely solo— and I absolutely loved it. In many ways, the TMB is probably the perfect introductory solo hike, as you’re never truly alone on the trail, never far from food or supplies, and rarely remote enough to require evacuation should something go wrong . I’d highly recommend making your own adventure and setting out independently (or with a group of friends)!

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Planning your Tour du Mont Blanc hike

When to hike the tmb.

The TMB is only walkable from late June to early September due to snow , though this varies from year to year― there are plenty of stories about fresh snow in the middle of August, that’s just the Alps for you. Another thing to consider is that most mountain huts are only open in this window (but that doesn’t affect campers). I hiked in mid-July, which is a less busy time than August when most of Europe is on holiday― there were plenty of fellow hikers on the trail to chat with, but it didn’t feel overly busy. The only other thing I considered when planning my hike was the UTMB schedule, which is the crazy race in late August where thousands of people come to run the entire 180km trail. Can’t for the life of me imagine why (or how) someone would do that, but avoid hiking at this time if you don’t fancy being trampled!

Camping vs mountain huts

This will probably make the biggest difference in your whole TMB experience. I decided to camp along the way, which meant that I carried a tent, a sleeping bag, sleeping mat, a camp stove, a pot and cutlery, and a bunch of freeze-dried dinners (I bought bread and cheese along the way to supplement my mountain food). It was definitely a lot of extra weight, especially compared to the hikers carrying day packs (at which I often stared enviously), but I had a lot of freedom and flexibility with my day-to-day itinerary  and my hike cost a small fraction of a hut-style hike (a night in a mountain hut costs about 60€ including dinner and breakfast, while camping ranged from free to 14€ per night ).

If you’re staying in mountain huts, it’s important to make reservations in advance , which means you’re locked into your itinerary with no room for adjustments (and my plans changed about 20 times a day along the trail, so that would have been challenging). It really depends on what you’re after, as I can definitely see the appeal in carrying only a light pack, sleeping in a bed every night, and not worrying about cooking. But I wholeheartedly recommend camping as a more authentic— and fun— option if you’re up for the challenge! I’ve summarised all of my campsites below, and definitely check out my packing list at the bottom of this post for an idea of what gear you’ll need to bring.

Essential resources

If you’re seriously considering the TMB, I’d highly recommend purchasing  Trekking The Tour of Mont Blanc by Kev Reynolds .  This up-to-date guidebook was absolutely invaluable in planning (and re-planning each day) every single stage of my hike, as well as navigating along the trail, choosing campsites, and finding food in nearby towns . So long as you have this book, there’s absolutely no need for a big map or a GPS— this really is the “TMB bible” and you’ll probably see 90% of hikers whip out their copy at the top of every Col and fork in the trail. Buy this immediately!

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Views of the Glacier du Trient from Fenêtre d’Arpette

Getting to the Tour du Mont Blanc

Getting to chamonix.

As a rather bustling ski resort, there are a number of options to get to Chamonix, France. I’d recommend flying into Geneva, Switzerland and then taking a bus/shuttle/train across the border to Chamonix. The bus takes about 2 hours and costs 19€; a shuttle costs about 25€, but only takes a little over an hour; and the train is a bit cheaper and really scenic, but it involves heaps of transfers. I had a shuttle arranged through my hotel in Les Houches because I had been travelling for ages to get there (Australia might as well be Mars), I was dead-tired, and needed to arrive asap to organise all my stuff for an early hiking start the next day. It was 29€, but definitely worth it for the convenience. Most hotels in Chamonix will offer a similarly priced shuttle or there are several companies (not affiliated with any hotel) that also drive the route.

I’d also recommend staying in a hotel/hostel in Chamonix or Les Houches the night before your hike rather than a campsite (although there is a nice one in Chamonix). That way, you can store anything you don’t actually need on the trail (e.g. plane clothes, stuff for onwards travel) with the front desk and retrieve it when you finish.

Getting to the trailhead in Les Houches

Although it’s technically possible to begin the TMB in Chamonix, the official trailhead is in  Les Houches, about 6km from Chamonix.  I stayed in a hotel between Chamonix and Les Houches on the night before my hike, about 2km from the trailhead, so I just walked from my  hotel  on the morning of Day 1. From the Tourist Information Centre in Les Houches, there’s an arrow directing you to the start of the trek and it’s not a difficult walk . If you’re staying actually in Chamonix (or if you want to save your energy for the trail), there’s also a bus that runs around Chamonix and Les Houches . It’s 3€ for a ticket that works all day on the bus, so you can also use your ticket to do any last-minute gear or snack shopping prior to hitting the trail.

Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary

There are traditionally 11 stages to the Tour du Mont Blanc hike, with most people tackling a stage each day, typically anticlockwise . I was able to group a few stages together and finish in 8 days (plus a rest day in Courmayeur, which I’d definitely recommend). I found the pace reasonably comfortable, and I’m definitely not the fastest hiker, so I would recommend 8-9 days for most people . It’s hard to know exactly how you will feel on the trail and how the weather will be, though, so it’s another great reason to camp and stay flexible in your itinerary, allowing yourself to make constant changes to your “plan” as you go (and I say “plan” because you can never really have a plan in the mountains.. nature always has its own plan for you).  Here’s my TMB itinerary, which should give you an idea of what to expect— and what to look forward to!

Day 1: Les Houches – Les Contamines

Distance covered: 20km Elevation gain & loss: 646m & 643m Trail time: 6.5hrs Highlights: Passed through the most adorable little French villages, saw French llamas and little French kitties, caught a few glimpses of Mont Blanc through the clouds

CAMPING LE PONTET

Located about 2km past Les Contamines, this is a lovely campsite and gîte with clean facilities and reasonable prices. Due to torrential rain, I paid a bit extra to stay in a bed in the mountain hut-style dorm and was very happy to be out of the wet and cold. Price of camping: ~8€ Price of bed in gîte: 14€ Facilities: toilets, hot showers, wifi (for 1€) Food:  a small shack onsite sells some snacks and drinks

Read more: TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 1: LES HOUCHES – LES CONTAMINES

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Charming French cottages along the trail

Day 2: Les Contamines – Col des Fours – Les Mottets

Distance covered: 23km Elevation gain & loss: 1579m & 876m Trail time: 7.5hrs Variations: Col des Fours to Les Mottets Highlights: Crossed 3 mountain passes, reached the highest point on the TMB at 2,665m, saw a marmotte and a herd of chamois, wild camped in the most incredible spot in front of the mountains

WILD CAMPING NEAR REFUGE LES MOTTETS

I originally set my tent up on the side of the river closest to the mountain hut, but was told to move to the small grass patch opposite the field of cows. I woke up to a chorus of cow bells and enjoyed spectacular views of the mountains, so it was well worth the lack of facilities to enjoy wild camping for at least one night. Price of camping: free! Facilities: None (possible to pay to shower at the hut) Food:  I got a day-old baguette for free from the hut and ate it with my dehydrated dinner (but it’s possible to pay for a hot meal at the hut)

Read more:  TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 2: LES CONTAMINES – COL DES FOURS – LES MOTTETS

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Approaching the first of 3 mountain passes on Day 2

Day 3: Les Mottets – Rifugio Elisabetta – Courmayeur

Distance covered: 30km Elevation gain & loss: 1464m & 1818m Trail time: 8.5hrs Variations: combined stage 3 & 4 into a single day Highlights: Crossed the border into Italy, walked with a lovely group of people, incredible mountain views, descended into Courmayeur and got to enjoy pizza and gelato

ALBERGO LE MARMOTTE IN COURMAYEUR

After combining two stages into a single day and covering a brutal amount of distance both up and down steep trails, I arrived a day earlier than I had originally planned in Courmayeur. As a reward, I stayed in a room at Albergo Le Marmotte (my friend Katy was staying there while she waited for me to come through Courmayeur). I must say, it was nice to have a hot shower and a good long sleep in a bed! Price of hotel: 80€ for a double room Food: there are a million pizza/pasta options in town (my motivation for walking farther today than planned) and the hotel also serves a delicious Italian breakfast in the mornings, included in the room rate

Read more: TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 3: LES MOTTETS – RIFUGIO ELISABETTA – COURMAYEUR

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Crossing the border into Italy

Day 4: Courmayeur – Rifugio Bonatti – La Peule

Distance covered: 28km Elevation gain & loss: 1710m & 611m Trail time: 9.5hrs Variations: combined stage 5 & part of stage 6 into one day Highlights: Stunning wild flowers, glimpses of “Monte Bianco” (as the Italians say), crossed the border into Switzerland

I camped inside a yurt at Le Peule for the same price of pitching a tent on the property, and it was certainly a warmer option. There is one yurt furnished with beds that is more expensive, and also the option of dorm beds for 25€, but I was quite happy to sleep with my air mattress and sleeping bag on the wood chips of the storage yurt after enjoying a delicious drink and some cheese from inside the refuge. Price of camping: 15€ to pitch a tent or stay in the unfurnished yurt Facilities: toilets, hot showers, indoor seating in the refuge Food: hot meals at the refuge, drinks and cheese for sale

Read more:  TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 4:  COURMAYEUR – RIFUGIO BONATTI – LA PEULE

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Walking alongside Mont Blanc

Day 5: La Peule –  Champex

Distance covered: 24km Elevation gain & loss: 465m & 1465m Trail time: 5.5hrs Variations: combined part of stage 6 & stage 7 into one day Highlights: Passed through some cute Swiss towns, dozens of wood carvings of animals along the forest trail, gorgeous lake in Champex

CAMPING LES ROCAILLES

On the far side of Champex, this is a large and well-equipped campsite with good wifi and nice facilities. I found it a bit difficult to locate (luckily, I ran into a friend from the previous day who helped me find my way), so just follow the lake all the way around through town and it is immediately off the trail you will take tomorrow, can’t miss it. Stock up on food at the supermarket in town before checking in! Price of camping: 15sfr Facilities: toilets, hot showers, wifi (!), picnic tables Food: sells a few snacks, 15min walk to supermarket and restaurants in Champex

Read more:  TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 5: LA PEULE – CHAMPEX

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Serene Champex

Day 6: Champex – Fenêtre d’Arpette – Le Peuty

Distance covered: 15km Elevation gain & loss: 1199m & 1139m Trail time: 6.5hrs Variations: stage 8 high route via Fenêtre d’Arpette Highlights: The so-called hardest day of the trek, incredible uphill climb to highest point on the TMB at 2,665m, amazing views of Glacier du Trient

Having heard that there is no camping at Col de la Forclaz, the traditional end of stage 8, I detoured about 20min to Le Peuty, where a simple campsite sits below the mountains. There are excellent directions in the guidebook , but basically you just walk downhill along a winding road until you come to a small, level clearing. The facilities are really minimal, but the site has a great view and was pleasantly inexpensive. Price of camping: 4sfr Facilities: toilet block outside, small shelter to cook and eat under Food: 5min walk to a very tiny shop selling sandwiches and a couple food items, plus a bar with drinks

Read more:  TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 6: CHAMPEX – FENÊTRE D’ARPETTE – LE PEUTY

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Approaching the dreaded Fenêtre d’Arpette

Day 7: Le Peuty – Tré-Le-Champ

Distance covered: 16km Elevation gain & loss: 1069m & 1178m Trail time: 4.5hrs Highlights: Crossed the border back into France, unobstructed views of Mont Blanc, wine with friends at a great camp site

AUBERGE LA BOERNE

There are several options for camping in Tré-Le-Champ and Argentière, but I was really happy with this spot in the garden of Auberge la Boerne. Campers get full access of the wonderful indoor bathrooms and it’s just a short walk to a massive supermarket (by mountain standards) so you can binge on tasty snacks on the cheap. Price of camping: 8€ Facilities: bathrooms inside the Auberge, hot showers, wifi also in the Auberge Food: hot meals at the Auberge, 15min walk to a supermarket in Argentière

Read more: TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 7: LE PEUTY – TRÉ-LE-CHAMP

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Crossing back into France

Day 8: Tré-Le-Champ – Lac Blanc – La Flegere – Chamonix

Distance covered: 17km Elevation gain & loss: 760m & 1257m Trail time: 5.5hrs Variations: combined stage 10 & 11 into one day, included Lac Blanc variante, and arrived back in Chamonix Highlights: The famed ladder section with vertical climbing, stunning alpine lakes, swimming in freezing cold Lac Blanc, descent from the mountain into Chamonix for the end of the hike!

Back in Chamonix, there are a number of campsites in and around the town , as well as a wide range of accommodation options throughout the area. Treat yourself to a hot shower and a comfy bed, you’ve earned it!

Read more:  TOUR DU MONT BLANC DAY 8: TRÉ-LE-CHAMP – LAC BLANC – LA FLEGERE – CHAMONIX

camping le tour chamonix

One of the amazing Lacs des Chéserys

What to expect on the trail

I’m an absolute potato when it comes to directions, and even I never got lost while hiking the TMB. On just a couple occasions, I was not 100% sure of which fork in the road to take, but there were usually people around to ask or I’d just whip out my very handy guidebook . Between TMB signage, painted trail markers on the rocks, and all of the guidebook’s detailed directions, it was easy to find my way around and I never once wished that I had a map with me.

If you’re staying in mountain huts, all your breakfasts and dinners will be covered and will be delicious (so I hear). The huts also sell packed lunches for about 13€, so you could safely have ever single meal taken care of. Some campers ate their meals in the refuges, some bought food every few days from small shops, and some cooked every meal on a stove , so there is no shortage of options.

I personally had my mountain food, but I also bought bread and cheese in shops to supplement the pouch meals, and found it to be inexpensive and delicious. I paid about 1€ for baguettes and 4€ for good sized hunks of cheese in most places, but I even scored a free baguette from a refuge once when I went to enquire about buying one— it hadn’t sold that day so they just gave it away. Most refuges sell drinks (beer, soft drink, juice, coffee) for a few euro, as well. Every single day, you will pass by a refuge, most days also a small town with a shop or two, and every few days a supermarket— food is never far away!

As for water, there are little troughs with eau potable every few hours, clean water at all the refuges, and even delicious glacier water in little streams along the way . I never felt very panicky about having enough water, and actually found that carrying only 1L at a time was a good way to keep my pack light. I didn’t really encounter anyone who was purifying their water, and certainly never felt the need to, so don’t stress about packing filtration systems, either.

All the campsites I stayed at (details in the Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary section of this post) were very nice: clean toilets, hot showers (at most sites), and reasonably priced from 4sfr to 14€ per night . For the most part, campsites are well described within the guidebook I recommended previously , but in a few instances, there were no campsites listed within hours of where I was hoping to stay. I found that other hikers usually seemed to know of a place if you ask around, and wild camping is a good plan B (although it’s not permitted in many parts of Switzerland, so refer to the guidebook). I only wild camped one night during my hike, but there are certainly places to get off the beaten path more frequently if that’s your thing. To make sure you’re camping legally, enquire inside one of the mountain huts and they will usually direct you to a nearby area where you can pitch your tent without being bothered (I did get asked to move once).

Enjoying the view from my tent on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Packing list for the Tour du Mont Blanc

This will vary hugely depending on whether you’re camping or staying in huts and whether you’re cooking for yourself or buying food, so this is just what I packed for my trip (plus the things I wish I had brought).

Check out this post for recommendations on all the best gear: BUILDING THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE KIT: THE BEST HIKING & BACKPACKING GEAR FOR WOMEN

Hiking gear

  • hiking backpack — I used a 50L pack and it was perfect. Surprisingly, I had by far the smallest bag of anyone that I saw camping along the trail, but people were carrying unnecessary items, if you ask me (jeans? a laptop?)
  • waterproof backpack cover
  • trekking poles — cannot stress this enough, I would not have been able to complete the hike without poles. Sometimes you are descending into valleys and your knees are screaming with the pain of a thousand suns and the only thing keeping you upright is your poles, so do not leave them at home.
  • bladder — I managed with a 1.5L bladder and just filled up frequently, which helped with the weight of my pack. I also packed a 1L plastic bottle that I could fill up at streams throughout the day (and use to pour water into my bladder).
  • hiking boots — I would really recommend some that come up high on the ankle for better stability. There is a fair bit of uneven ground, but also the steep ascending and descending on scree provides prime ankle-rolling opportunities.

Camping equipment

  • sleeping bag — it’s usually around 10C at night, but I get quite cold, so I packed a bag rated to 5C (and was still sleeping in all the clothing I brought). Go for something warmer if you have room.
  • mattress pad
  • ultralight pillow
  • camp stove — I actually ditched my stove and cookwear after the first few days, just cooking my mountain pouch food with cold water. If I had a second person to share weight with, it would have been fine, but I wanted to keep my pack as light as possible and I was already carrying a 2 man tent.
  • gas canister — you’ll have to buy this in Chamonix or Les Houches since you can’t fly with it.
  • cookware — I only carried a spoon to stir and eat directly from my mountain pouches, but these are the bowls I usually hike with.
  • mountain food — I brought about 5 pouches of food and they lasted for multiple meals, especially when eaten with a baguette. All of the pouch meals I had could be cooked with only cold water, even the ones that say they require hot water, you just need to leave the water in the pouch for a few hours rather than a few minutes. I would put water in the pouch in the morning and the food would be completely rehydrated and delicious by lunchtime, when I would just eat straight from the pouch. This site makes the most amazing mountain food, you’ll want to eat it all the time.

I saved a lot of weight by packing hardly any clothing, but I basically wore everything to sleep. Long sleeve, fleece, down jacket, tights, fleece leggings, and wool socks.. I got really cold in my tent, despite a warm sleeping bag, so don’t skimp on warm clothing if you’re also someone who runs cold. Better to carry a few extra items than to not get any sleep at night because you’re freezing!

  • 2x quick drying hiking tanks/shirts
  • 1x long sleeve shirt
  • 1x fleece pullover/zip-up for the evenings
  • down jacket — really glad to have this at night and on the windy mountain passes
  • rain jacket — I actually only used mine for about 2 hours over the entire hike, but other people have not been so lucky with weather, so it’s essential to have.
  • 2x hiking/running shorts
  • tights for chillier evenings and for sleeping (plus fleece tights if you get cold easily)
  • 2x wool socks and liners — wash them as soon as you take them off at night and tie to the outside of your pack in the morning if they still aren’t dry. These toe sock liners are the best thing that ever happened to my feet in terms of preventing blisters!
  • 1x comfy (and clean) socks for the night
  • baseball hat/sun hat
  • Tevas /similar sandals — something you can wear around the campsite, on short walks in the evening, and possibly in the showers
  • 1x sports bra for the ladies

Personal bits

  • knee strap — this hike has a cruel amount of steep descents that will wreak havoc on bad knees. I bought a knee strap specifically for this hike, since I get crippling knee pain even down gentle hills and my knee brace is huge and very metal, and I can’t recommend this strap highly enough. It fits snuggly right above your tibial tuberosity and puts pressure on your patellar tendon, which helps maintain normal tracking and reduces pressure on the posterior patellar surface. It was about $8, is super small so it doesn’t make your knee hot and sweaty, and it really made a world of difference for me.
  • KT tape for blisters and hotspots — I struggled so badly with blisters and went through way more bandages than I ever anticipated, plus was given handfuls by multiple kind hikers who took pity on me, so come prepared if you too are prone to blisters.
  • Naproxen — something for the aches that you will definitely have, preferably a strong anti-inflammatory to keep swelling to a minimum in your joints.
  • Claritin — the pollen is out and about in the summer.
  • hygiene kit — toothbrush, soap, the usual bits (I recommend bar shampoo and bar soap to save on space and weight)
  • ultralight microfibre towel — I actually left this out to save weight, but I know that not everyone is willing to drip dry.
  • camera + extra batteries — I love my GoPro  for long hikes like this since it’s super small and light, takes great photos, and is totally water/dirt/shock/Brooke-proof.
  • TMB guidebook 

Happy hiking! Feel free to leave questions in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them.

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brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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The comments.

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John Andrew

Hi, thanks for posting an amazing blog about the ultimate guide to solo hiking & camping the Tour du Mont Blanc. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a breathtaking adventure, and this ultimate guide to solo hiking and camping is a game-changer. From trail tips to gear essentials, it’s a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking the thrill of the great outdoors. With this guide in hand, you’ll navigate this iconic trek with confidence, embracing the serenity of solitude while forging unforgettable memories amidst the stunning Alpine landscapes.

Thanks for once again. Keep posting such types of informational blogs.

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OMG, you saved me Brooke! I’m John from Vietnam, Im about to do TMB this September and was so stressed due to the last minute planning. All the refuges are booked and i was gonna cancel this hike until i found this article. Thanks the universe! I hope you are having a great day exploring the world. Thank you so much for sharing!

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Hi John, I am so glad you found this article helpful, that makes me so happy!

Hope you had a phenomenal time on the trail, it’s one of the very best 🙂

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That was very helpful, Thanks Brook, I hiked Lycian way in Turkey, wonderful but it would be my first time solo hiking in August. like to hike with you in some part of the world, would be happy to receive your friendship email. The best Mina

The Lycian Way looks incredible, that’s definitely on my list! Hope you enjoyed the TMB & happy trails 🙂

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Aimee Frazier

Hi Brooke- Thanks for so much useful information! I’d love to know what knee brace you used – the link is broken. I’ll be trekking the TMB in September and will definitely need a knee brace. Thanks again!

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Youtube Travel Here

Hello! Great blog article with a lot of useful information! I have a question: how many kg was your total backpack weight? I’m 70kg and my backpack weights 15kg. I’m not experienced with multiple day hikes but I do often hike a few hours day trips. I’m still doubting if I take too many kg or not. Because food for a few days is around 2kg and camping gear around 3kg so that’s already 5kg extra if you go camping! While non-camping people already take around 10kg in their daypacks

On the TMB, I’d estimate I carried around 16kg and I’m 58kg, but obviously this is SUPER personal– what one person can carry is not the same as another. I struggled A LOT with that weight at the time, but I can climb Class 4 routes with a 23kg bag now without issue, so fitness (and not just general fitness, but specific fitness with regard to carrying a pack) is also a major factor.

The best advice for anyone reading this is to train WITH pack weight prior to the trek!

Happy trails 🙂 xx bb

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Hi Brooke, This was such a useful article! Thank you so much for sharing. I was wondering if you’d be able to answer a query I have. We’re planning the trip for our honeymoon next year.

Is it possible to book accommodation/a home base (we’re thinking apartments through AirBnb) in some of the villages and then do some of the key trails each day. We would have a car, so would be able to drive to different sections of the trail each day to do some of the amazing hikes or trail runs.

If we have 7 days, we could book accommodation at: – Chamonix for 2-3 nights – Champex for 2-3 nights – Courmayeur for 2-3 nights

Do you think we’d be missing out on some of the higher altitude hikes?

Would love to hear your thoughts!

Thanks, Emma

Hi Emma, so glad you found this post helpful! This is actually what my boss just did with her husband and their baby– basing out of a few towns, they were able to hike ~70% of the TMB as day hikes and then drive between towns to complete other sections. Your proposed itinerary would definitely be possible.

However, let me just warn that you will be missing out on the true TMB experience! If there’s not a super compelling reason to stay in town, I would strongly encourage you to book rooms in the huts so you can hike the full trail and really get into it– they are very comfortable, serve great food, and the social aspect is really fun. You can definitely still build in a rest day or 2 along the way, but I think it’s really worth it 🙂

Hope that helps, definitely let me know if you have further questions and I can also reach out to see exactly how my boss structured her itinerary with the car if that’s absolutely what you want to do.

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Been searching for days trying to find a SOLO hiking blog for the TMB, and bonus a lady solo hiker! Well curated details and answered all of my questions without being so heavily wordy (which i end up losing interest in lol). Basically planning this on a whim this week for a September trip, cause hell, why not! From the PNW to the Tour du Mont Blanc <3

Ahh Sheilynne, thanks so much for reading and I’m so happy to hear about another solo lady getting out there on the TMB! Hope you had an absolutely fabulous time this September, it’s such a wonderful experience 🙂

Happy trails! xx bb

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HI Brooke, great to read all this information! I think I’m gonna do this. The TMB is said to be challenging, I wonder: is this because of exposed or otherwise dangerous passages? I solo-hiked (and wild camped) the Alta VIa 1 in the Dolomites. It was challenging, and pushed my limits slightly, safetywise. Are there passages that were scary?

Hi Anne, thanks so much for reading and I SO encourage you to do the TMB! It’s not very exposed or dangerous, the challenge of the TMB just comes from the length and the elevation gain, which is not insignificant– nearly 2x the gain of AV1 (and only 1.5x the length, so yes, it is much steeper).

Wishing you a wonderful adventure! xx bb

Thanks for so much great, difficult information, particularly about camping! I am a wilderness guide, and have done lots of solo trips, but none in a foreign country. My question is about the knee brace you used. After all these years guiding trips with heavy packs, I also have screaming knees. It looks like the link no longer works. Might you have an updated link to the brace you used? Thank you so much!

Hi Aimee, thank you so much for the sweet comment and apologies for the broken link! I realise this is probably too late to be helpful for your TMB trip, but for future reference, this is my favourite knee strap: https://amzn.to/3uio9tu

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Jack Tinberg

Thank you so much for this post. I have been finding it difficult to get all this information from one place! Planning my trip now and thank you for saving me a ton of time and $$$$.

Thanks for reading, Jack, I’m so glad to hear you found this post helpful 🙂

Happy trails!

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Hey Brooke,

So thinking of a last minute solo trip soon, late June.

I haven’t done solo hiking or camping before so worried about the weight and competency with the tent gear.

I am happy to pick up food at refuges to remove that weight. Do you believe it is possible to not bring the mattress pad. Just bring tent, sleeping bag and maybe a light pillow?

Thanks, Alan

Hi Alan, I hope you made it out onto the trail for your solo trip this summer! Did you end up camping? I hope you did indeed bring a mattress pad, as I would absolutely never EVER recommend backpacking without one– they aren’t very heavy and you would have an atrocious sleep. I’m sure you figured out the perfect system 🙂

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Pablo Fernandez

One of the best guides online. Cheers!

Thanks so much for reading & for your kind words, Pablo! Hope you had a fantastic time on the trail 🙂

I found the info very useful as I´m planning this tour (solo hike and camping like you) this August. Thanks for sharing!:)

Hi Michaela, so glad you found the information helpful!

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Me too! Hehe also this August, see you there! Thanks for info! I will try to carry 6 kg backpack with tent

Hi Brooke, I’m from Taiwan:) Thanks for this article, it is very helpful.

I plan to hike TMB solo in Jun this year, and I am wondering if it is safe. If I hike along the main trail, Is there clearly marked on the road? In your experience, how risky is it if I fully prepared? Thanks.

Hi Yu, thanks for reading!

The TMB was my first solo backpacking trip and I found it to be absolutely excellent– safe, well-marked, trafficked enough that you’re not alone for too long, frequently punctuated by shops/restaurants in small towns, intermittently connected to transport… If you’re prepared for the physical challenge, then you could hardly find a better solo hike!

Hope that helps and happy trails! xx bb

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Some spectacular photographs of spectacular scenery. Thanks for information on pricing. I am such a novice at touring possibilities I get a bit stuck on simple unimportant stuff. Example, do gas canisters in France have compatible fittings for gas stoves we buy here in Scottish camping shops? Thanks again for info.

Hi Lee, thanks for reading, glad you enjoyed my early attempts at photography 🙂

I had no issue finding compatible gas canisters; Chamonix draws hikers from all over the world, so it’s not hard to source outdoor essentials to fit any set-up. I don’t know if Scotland has a super unique fitting, but I suspect you’d be fine!

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thank you for this article very helpful. When you planned your campsites did you have to reserve them, or did you just show up the day of and pay?

Hi Jonathon,

Back in 2017, I just showed up for the campsites with no bookings whatsoever (I don’t think reservations were even possible at that time), but I can’t comment on whether this is still true in 2023.

If anyone else reading this has recently hiked the TMB, we’d greatly appreciate your feedback!

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Jonathan Lloyd

Hello/Bonjour,

Your guide has been the most helpful of any on the internet thus far! Thank you. I would like to ask, how far in advance did you book on trail reservations (gite, refuge, or campsite)? A lot of guides recommend booking 6-9 months in advance. I like being flexible and hiking 25-30km days… Thoughts or recommendations on reservations?

Thank you! 🙂

Hi Jonathon!

At the time I hiked the TMB, there were no reservations required at any of the campsites, so my itinerary was 100% flexible. This may not be the case for camping anymore, I’m not sure, but definitely if you plan to stay in refugios, you really should book in advance. As a solo person, I’d say you have a good shot at snagging a last-minute spot, and even the possibility of arriving day-of and getting a bed if someone cancels (this worked for me in the Dolomite huts!)– but it’s still recommended to have a tent as a backup.

Hope that helps a little! xx bb

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Good’ay Aussie, great to have your expert advice.

Brooke , I have followed your advice and purchased the guide book you recommended. I walked the Larapinta Trail out of Alice Springs in June 2022 and found it very tough (at 70) doing more than 12 kms a day. So I thought I would walk around Mont Blanc in twice the time.

My idea was to luxuriate in a Chalet with good wine and food every second night and to spend the intervening evening at altitude in the mountains in a tent. I am used to camping in the Snowy Mts in winter. I have bought a hyperlite back and am having a special (under 1kg dyneema tent) made for me in Japan.

Big question, walking in June before the crowds, would I be allowed to do it? (camp in the mountains outside the normal camping areas). What do you think from your experience?

I think that sounds like a wonderful adventure perfectly balanced with comforts, which the TMB certainly lends itself to. Throughout much of France and Italy, I found it easy enough to wild camp– sometimes in plain view, other times farther from the trail and rifiguios– but this is technically forbidden in Switzerland, so you’ll be confined to the (well-appointed) campsites here. If these aren’t open, I think wild camping would be unobjectionable, so either way, this should be very doable.

Happy trails to you! xx bb

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Hello Brooke, I have read through this vlog several times hoping I trek the TMB next month (travel restrictions…). I eat vegan and wondering if food will be difficult to purchase in the shops along the way. I don’t eat bread or cheese which I have read is a huge staple.

I will be tenting as well and wondering if there is anything you would change regarding your route if you were to do it again. I will be using yours as a guideline due to time.

Thank you for sharing such a fabulous informative vlog. Cheers Wendy

I am SO sorry for the slow reply to your comment– maybe you can share if you were able to find anything vegan-friendly along the route, as others may have a similar question?

Hope you had a wonderful experience on this trail! xx bb

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Hello, when you were camping — did you ever worry about your belongings in the tent especially when you’re away (e.g going for a shower)? How did you deal with that?

As you are, I was a little wary prior to undertaking the trek alone, but it ended up feeling incredibly safe to leave things in the tent while I went to shower or find cheese nearby. I’d imagine you’ll feel the same, but if not, it’s easy enough to bring any real valuables (camera, etc) with you.

Hopefully you have as wonderful an experience as I did!

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Thanks for the website help lot more hikes plans for me.

Hi Ben, so glad to hear it!

Happy trails 🙂

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Hi Brooke, Thanks for this article, so many helpful tips! Did you leave your things and backpack in the tent in the evenings? I wonder how safe it would be to leave it for a while and for example go for a dinner or a walk in the evening. Thanks!

Hi Aga, so glad you found this post helpful!

I never had any issues leaving my stuff in the tent– whether you’re wild camping or staying at a designated site, the TMB is (generally speaking) incredibly safe.

Happy trails! -Brooke

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Thank you so much for this great article! I see you stated that you recommend hiking boots with ankle support, do you always hike in hiking boots? I am not an avid hiker but the few I have done, West Highland Way, Inca Trail, and local hikes, I have done in running sneakers. I have been debating the need for hiking boots for this hike and cannot get a true feel if they are necessary or not. I like sneakers since I feel like they are more comfortable and you don’t get blisters which is important for such high mileage days however everything I have read for this hike say hiking boots. Thank you so much for your helpful tips!

Hi Kristen,

This is such a personal choice! I’d never go on an overnight hike without boots, but that’s because I have terrible ankles and really need the support. I know plenty of others (like you) would PREFER to hike in shoes, even on a multi-day trek… as crazy as it sounds to me 🙂

For the TMB, I’d REALLY encourage boots because of the rough, rocky terrain and steep ascents/descents (especially if you do the high variants, which often descend over scree fields)– but I actually saw a man doing it in Teva sandals, so clearly it’s a matter of preference. People also run this trail (not the high variants, though) as part of an Ultra, so they’d be in shoes as well.

I have also done the Inca Trail, and the real difference is the weight you’re carrying, the distances you’re walking, and the rugged trail conditions on this trek, which far outweigh the demands of the 4-day Inca Trail.

The best compromise in my eyes would be bringing both shoes and hiking boots. My parents are avid mountaineers and this is what they do– they wear shoes on flatter, less demanding days when they want to maximise comfort (and also when they’re just walking around the campsite) and then wear boots on the more demanding days. This requires some additional pack weight, but if you’d be bringing camp shoes anyway (I usually bring Birkenstocks), then it’s not an enormous jump to bring a light pair of runners.

I really hope that helps! -Brooke

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I was originally planning to hike TMB with a friend at the end of july/beginning of august. Unfortunately plans have changed and my friend is no longer able to come with. I’m pretty confident with solo travelling via hotels, but I’m not sure how confident I am to solo travel on a thru hike with camping only. Your page is helping me feel way more confident about doing this solo! How did you find the trail as a solo female hiker? You mentioned it being safe and that’s what I have read in multiple places. Were there any times you felt concerned about your safety? How were the people? Did you feel like there was always someone near you to help you out in case you got lost or were confused about something? Thank you so much in advance!

I was actually in the exact same situation! I had planned to do the TMB with a friend, she backed out at the last minute, and I was really nervous about doing it alone– it was my first solo trek, I had to carry a 2-man tent and all the cooking gear by myself, and I’m not a great navigator. In the end, I just went for it, and it ended up being one of the best experiences of my life.

As you’ve read here and in other places, the hike is completely safe and I never once felt uncomfortable. The TMB is very popular, so you’ll never go more than a few hours without passing someone who can help if needed. The people on the trail were amazingly friendly (hikers are always the best kind of people!), and I made some really lovely friends that I hiked with for one or two days as our itineraries overlapped. Every day or second day at most, you will pass through a small town, so there are also plenty of points where you can take a rest day if needed or restock supplies.

Thankfully, the trail is super easy to follow. There are signs and markers everywhere and the main guidebook is really all you need, I didn’t even bring a map or GPS and was fine.

I would highly recommend camping, as it will give you the most freedom in terms of how far you go each day. This is great for a solo hiker because you might make friends and want to camp with them at a closer spot than you originally planned or you might be alone and want to keep trekking until 7pm because, well, why set up camp early if you’re alone?

I think if you can do it with a friend, you can do it by yourself, and you might just find that it’s far more rewarding that way 🙂

Happy trails, and feel free to ask any other questions you might have before July! -Brooke

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Hi Jamie did you/ are you still planning to do your trip?

I wish! Brooke had great information and I was really excited to do it by myself however like most things these days. I had to cancel it because of the pandemic….I read that the trail has been really nice with the lack of people so I would have loved to still go, but I’m living in Korea and if we leave the country…we are legally obligated to do a 14 day quarantine upon return…not enough vacation days for that unfortunately. I hope to reschedule it for next summer if things start looking up!

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Hi Brooke! Thank you for your post 🙂

I was just wondering if you could give me a rough estimate of how much the total trek cost you (excluding your flights and travel expenses to reach the starting point)- but things like accommodations during and cost for food?

I personally spent 90€ on accomodation for the entire trek, and that’s including one night where I paid 40€ for a B&B in Courmayeur, so it could have been much cheaper. All other nights were camping along the trail!

In terms of food, I had 2x mountain meals each day on the trail, so that’s about $25AUD each day + maybe $5 in snacks. I’m not sure where you’re based, but this is my favourite mountain food: http://packitgourmet.com

Hope that gives you an idea 🙂

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I feel much confident now. Thank you and enjoy your new adventure !

I’m so glad to find so much helpful info from your blog. I’m planning to hike solo for the first time in June. My main concern is about the trail. Were the trails clearly marked? Would I be able to tell which way to take especially when there’s no one around to ask on the entire TMB loop?

Thanks, Jen

Hi Jen, it’s great to hear that you found this post helpful!

I was worried about the same thing before my trek, especially since I am a really poor navigator… Thankfully, the trail is INSANELY well marked, with signs at just about every junction listing KMs and time to the next waypoint. I’d recommend having the guidebook pages with you, but you don’t need a separate map or GPS. Also, there are usually people to ask, it’s a popular trail 🙂

Hope that helps; happy trails! -Brooke

Amazing thanks for sharing!!

Thanks for the comment & happy trails! 🙂

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Fellow Sydney resident here!

Just wanted to say thank you for this awesome write up, it has really provided me with some invaluable insight into how I should approach the trip 🙂

I plan to hike the TMB early July next year, but considering I’m fairly new to hiking and have never done a solo hike in my life, I’m a bit concerned about the overall difficulty. Would you suggest I hold off attempting the hike until I have some more experience in this kind of thing?

I would very much like to mirror your approach to the hike, and suspect I will end up following your itinerary as closely as possible once I’m over there.

Thanks heaps, Brooke!

Hi Brad, so happy to hear you found these posts helpful and that you are planning to hike the TMB! It is truly incredible.

This was also my first ever solo hike and I’d definitely recommend it to you as the perfect introduction to hiking alone. It is a physically strenuous hike, sure, but the navigational demands are really minor, there are plenty of other people on the trail, lots of well-appointed campgrounds, and near-daily opportunities to pass through a town or take a rest day as needed. If you are confident in your ability to carry a heavy pack and make the long ascents, I wouldn’t worry about the rest!

Definitely let me know if you have any other questions about the TMB, I’m more than happy to share further details of my experience and just general trekking advice, having since done a lot more 5-10 day hikes around the world.

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Brad — TMB will be my 3rd solo hike. I recommend the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland (50 miles with the extra day to the coastal waterfall) and the northernmost 70 miles of the Kungsleden in Switzerland, each is 5 days. Brooke — Thanks for this! I feel much more confident about my solo trip (which has been postponed for 2 years).

Thanks for reading and happy trails, Clare! Crossing my fingers that this will be your year 🙂

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Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds amazing.

Did you have to prebook the camp spots? or did you just show up and pay as your entered?

Kind regards.

Hi Yannick,

Apologies for the late reply, I’m travelling in South America at the moment and I haven’t had very reliable internet!

As for the campgrounds, no, you absolutely don’t need to book anything in advance. I didn’t have any trouble getting a spot and I think it’s very unlikely they would turn you away even if they were fairly crowded. Worst case, you can wild camp, but I sincerely doubt it will come to that. The campsites are large and there are often several options within a few kms.

Hope this helps and have a wonderful hike, the TMB is amazing! -Brooke

Hi Brooke, I love your website- it is really helpful!

Could I please ask if you had to book the campsites? or did you just show up at the campsite and request a place to stay?

Kind regards,

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Thanks for all the info, I loved reading about your adventure.

Do you know what your total base weight was of your pack without water etc? Thanks!:)

Hi Geert, thank you for the kind words!

My TMB weight: 15kg total base weight (bag and camping gear) 6kg + food 2.5kg + clothes, toiletries, electronics (camera, etc) 5kg + water 1.5kg

Hope this helps 🙂 -Brooke

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Thanks, this website has wonderful info. We will be doing the TMB in a couple of weeks. Do you think a jetboil is something that is necessary to bring? We were thinking of just buying food at convenience stores along the route. Are there enough of those that you won’t need to bring any freeze-dried meals?

Thanks, Elliot!

Well, you have a few options for food along the TMB. The first is that you can buy hot meals at mountain huts (or restaurants when you pass through town), the second is that you can cook all of your own food, but the best option, in my opinion, is a combination of both! Food in the mountain huts can be really expensive (about 25€ per dinner), so it will really blow your budget out. Plus, there are a number of campsites that aren’t right next to a mountain hut or in a town, which will make it pretty challenging to get food (this is assuming you’re camping??).

When I hiked the TMB, I cooked but supplemented my dehydrated mountain meals with bread and cheese bought along the way. I even enjoyed an incredible pizza for dinner when I passed through Courmayeur!

Hope this answers your question– and have a wonderful time on the TMB, it really is amazing! -Brooke

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  • Where to stay – Chamonix
  • Geneva Airport to Chamonix
  • Itineraries
  • Tour du Mont Blanc Refuges
  • Refuges ebook

Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

The Tour du Mont Blanc’s 11 stages

This page will help you get a grip on the route of the Tour du Mont Blanc. There are 11 Tour du Mont Blanc étapes (stages). If you’re planning to trek self guided independently, then you need to get acquainted really well with the trail route and understand it as much as you can before trying to plan your days and where you will stay.

The Tour starts traditionally in Les Houches, a village at the beginning of the Chamonix Valley and it’s actually possible to hike either way around the loop – clockwise or anti-clockwise. Most hikers hike anti-clockwise so that the views of Mont Blanc are always in front of you, but there are actually advantages of hiking clockwise, namely less traffic on the trail in the mornings.

There are several alternative start points to the TMB if you don’t want to start at Les Houches. You could start at any of the main towns along the trail – Les Contamines (France), Courmayeur (Italy) or Champex-Lac (Switzerland).

It’s also possible to start your hike a couple of stages earlier in the Chamonix Valley so instead of starting at Stage 1, you could for example start at Stage 11 and do Stage 1 as your day 2. I often suggest this when I help trekkers plan their itinerary (I offer private consultations via zoom). This is a great option as accommodation is limited between stages 10 and 11 so by starting off on Stage 11 (you can get the Brévent cable car up from Chamonix town centre) you can either do this as a day hike and return to your Chamonix hotel, or you can book somewhere to stay in Les Houches if you want to be moving each day. This means you would finish at the end of Stage 10. Bear in mind that Stage 11 has a long, brutal descent – in fact if you took the Brévent cable car up and then the summit cable car after – you would be whizzed to the top of Brévent (and that spectacular views! ) within minutes – you would ONLY have descent for the remainder of the day (around 5 hours). If you have delicate knees then you might want to re-consider turning this into your first day!

Its also a great idea to do Stages 10 and 11 as day hikes. This allows you to get some ‘training’ hikes in before with just a day pack before you set off into the wilderness!

If you aim to camp along the trail (and are not therefore tied to refuge bookings) and bad weather is predicted for the end of your trek. Instead of missing stage 10 and 11’s outrageously incredible views of Mont Blanc due to closed in weather, you could start at stage 10 and lap up the views before continuing onto ‘Stage 1’.

For now though let’s talk through each stage.

camping le tour chamonix

What is a ‘stage’ on the TMB?

The Tour du Mont Blanc hiking route has been divided into 11 sections which can be hiked in a day. Each section is called a ‘stage’.

If you are hiking independently and do not plan to book onto a guided tour, you do not have to follow the recommended 11 stages – you can easily create your own daily hiking plan to fit to your own schedule or level of fitness.

However, all the Tour du Mont Blanc guide books refer to these stages so it’s a good place to start to get to know the trail and is invaluable during your planning phase. If you are planning your trek yourself and going down the self guided route, expect it to take a while to read up, get to know the trail and then plan your days meticulously. There’s plenty of posts here that can help you. Read our Planning – First Steps article.

camping le tour chamonix

How long is each stage?

It’s worth noting that each ‘stage’ is LONG averaging between 13-20km per day over challenging terrain, expect between 700m up to 1000m elevation gain each day! Covering the entire Tour du Mont Blanc in 11 days is no walk in the park – expect to be on the trail between 7-9 hours per day.

Some of you may want to walk at a more leisurely pace and cover a shorter distance each day. In this case trekking the entire circuit of the Tour du Mont Blanc could take you nearer 14 days to complete.

Many hikers choose to hike the trek over two summers dividing the Tour du Mont Blanc in half which is a very sensible option. I’ve done this when hiking with my 10 year old. Most hikers split the trek and hike (in which ever order they like):

➳ Les Houches (Chamonix Valley- FRANCE) to Courmayeur (ITALY)

➳ Courmayeur (ITALY) – Les Houches (Chamonix Valley – FRANCE)

Other superhuman hikers fast pack the trail in a week whilst hundreds of hardcore athletes run the trail every August in the ultra endurance race, the UTMB arriving back in Chamonix with 21 -46.5 hours! The choice is yours.

camping le tour chamonix

Stage breakdown and overview

Below is a brief breakdown of each stage which will help you get a feel for the route of the Tour du Mont Blanc. The Tour starts traditionally in Les Houches, a village at the end of the Chamonix Valley.

If you want to make a shorter itinerary, for example you only have limited time of say a week, or you want to make shorter days because you don’t want to hike 7-9 hours every day (I hear you), then go on over to our Itineraries page where we have ready made suggested itineraries to shorten sections or to only hike the most stunning stages.

And of course if you have the time and want to hike shorter distances each day (because even the 11 day itinerary has some serious kilometres and elevation each day!) then know that there are refuges every 5km along the Tour du Mont Blanc trail so you can make your own itinerary to suit your needs. Just be sure to book early (Oct-Nov for the following summer) so that you can have your choice of refuges.

Tour du Mont Blanc distances & countries

camping le tour chamonix

LES HOUCHES (CHAMONIX) – LES CONTAMINES

  • height gain 646m
  • height loss 633m

Stage 1 starts from the village of Les Houches at the end of the Chamonix Valley, works its way over to the village of Bionnassay then down into the Montjoie Valley to the town of Les Contamines.

Faced at the beginning of trail with a brutal 600m climb from Les Houches to the Col du Voza (1653m), trekkers can opt out of this and choose to take the Bellevue cable car and be whizzed to more of less the same elevation in less than 5 minutes. Read our post on TMB short cuts .

From the Col du Voza see spectacular views of the Dome du Gouter and Aiguille de Bionnassay. The trail now meanders down through pleasant hamlets and verdant woodland. It’s still a long day but undemanding in terms of exposure and almost completely downhill if you take the cable car up.

It’s a good introduction to the trail to warm up the legs and soak up the French ambiance but nothing in terms of sheer rugged wild beauty which is yet to come.

VARIANT TRAIL – COL DU TRICOT – There is an alternative route for Stage 1 (18km) that passes the Col du Tricot (2120m) which offers much more spectacular views than the traditional route. It’s classed as a more challenging route, which it is compared to the traditional Stage 1, however in my opinion it is not ‘difficult’ and it’s certainly worth the extra effort for the highlights of crossing a Himalayan suspension bridge (crossing the rushing glacial water over this bridge is a highlight of mine), the spectacular views of Glacier Bionassay and the fantastic view of Dômes du Miage. I would say that more trekkers actually take this route than the traditional stage 1 route now and in fact in Kingsley Jones’s guidebook THIS IS simply stage 1. If you take the Bellevue cable car short cut from Les Houches (which I would ALWAYS recommend as it cuts 2 hours of unspectacular up) then it’s only a couple of minutes before you will reach the variant stage 1 trail (see map below). If you want to hike the traditional trail it takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the trail from the top of the Bellevue cable car. It takes me 2 hours to reach the top of the Col du Tricot from the Bellevue cable car. You then have a very steep descent down to Refuge Miage. It takes me 1 hour to descend the steep zig zag trail. DO NOT rush this – an injury here would be terribly disappointing. So in total it takes me 3 hours to get to Refuge Miage which I would highly suggest for lunch – they have a lovely garden overlooking the Dôme du Miage – book ahead in peak season. This variant should NEVER be considered in bad weather. You would not want to be on the top of the Col du Tricot in a lightening storm, plus the descent to Refuge Miage would be hazardous in rain. However look at the weather forecast – if it is predicting thunderstorms in the afternoon (which is common around 4pm in July and August) then this route would be perfectly okay if you were setting off at 8am in the morning – remember it only takes 3 hours to get to Refuge Miage and after this point the route is not a problem in bad weather. Accommodation options are at Refuge de Miage (private refuge – they have one large dorm or lovely private tiny chalets in the garden) or Auberge du Truc (very authentic basic stay available to book on the TMB website) both before Les Contamines. If you’re after a much more adventurous bed for the night consider taking the ‘smuggler’s trail ‘ from the top of Col du Tricot to the tiny 18 bed Refuge Plan Glacier. If you’re looking for more information on the refuges of the TMB I’ve written an ebook on them – click here to find out more .

camping le tour chamonix

If you’re looking to shorten your Tour du Mont Blanc trek into less days, then the traditional route through Bionassay is one of the recommended stages to skip. However I would never recommend skipping variant stage 1 – it’s one of my favourites! However if you simply don’t have time and for example want to do the half TMB to Courmayeur but only have 3 days and don’t want to hike longer than the standard stages each day then it would make sense to start in Les Contamines and skip this stage. This can be done by taking the bus from Chamonix to Les Contamines and starting your trail there. Or if you’re coming direct from Geneva Airport you can get an airport transfer direct to Les Contamines (which is easier than catching the bus from Chamonix to Les Contamines because you need to change bus in St Gervais and often the wait time is frustratingly long). Depending on the timetable schedule it can take between 2-4 hours to reach Les Contamines on public transport. Consider a private transfer if there’s a group of you.

If you’re looking how to make stage 2 slightly easier, consider taking the Bellevue cable car to cut 2 hrs off your trail & push on through Les Contamines to stay at the first refuge on the trail after the town. Nant Borrant is a gorgeous chalet refuge 1 hr up the trail (up a very steep hill!) which will give you a head start the following day

camping le tour chamonix

What is the ‘Tour du Mont Blanc’? 15 quick facts

camping le tour chamonix

Money on the TMB

mont blanc hiking trail

Planning – the first steps

37 comments.

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Ashish Shukla

This is Ashish from New York. I stumbled upon your website and I must thank you for a really well written account of all the stages. I have not found such a detailed and succinct explanation for each stage anywhere else and I have done a fair bit of research. Thank you Thank you Thank you!! After reading this blog and your public transportation write up, I feel way more confident to tackle this hike starting on September 01-2021. I am planning to do it in 6 nights/7days.

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tourdumontblanchike

Hi Ashish, you’re welcome. Have a great trek!

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I totally agree with Ashish’s comments, above. We’ve done the full TMB (in 2015) and yet I still find I’m thoroughly entranced by all of the information, pictures, and tips for good planning that you share. Well done!! This is an excellent resource. I love its down-to-earth, friendly, honest tone. It’s so helpful to get real-life perspectives and details. You present them all in a very reader-friendly manner. The entries about the various refuges, and the descriptions of the traditional TMB stages, are particularly helpful… although, really, *everything* here provides great information. (My only suggestion (humbly offered) would be to proof-read the Casermetta Museum / Col de la Seigne history paragraphs, which seem of very different quality than the rest). Andrew McCluggage has put out a recent and very good book on the TMB, to add to the classic guides by Kev Reynolds and Jim Manthorpe; have you seen it? Your photographs and the attractive arrangement of each page/screen on your site really captures the allure and the magnificence of the TMB. It is an epic experience, from start to finish. Bravo, Mags!!! We will be keeping your work bookmarked for our next trip back!! I wish I could say we were heading out on the trail *today*!

Hi Caroline, thanks for getting in touch and for your kind words. I have re-read the Casermetta post and oh my gosh – why was that not proof read! I think some of it had been translated from Italian and not checked! Apologies! I’ve taken it offline as it needs to be updated anyhow – I hiked over the Col de la Seigne a couple of weeks ago and had the pleasure of interviewing one of the staff at the Casermetta so I have that interview on film which will be uploaded to the post. Hiked the variant stage 9 a couple of days ago which is a real favourite – stunning views of the Trient Glacier! I haven’t yet read Andrew’s book but I shall – will be hiking the tour again fully in September so I’ll aim to take that one with me this time and add it to our post on guidebooks. Thanks again for letting me know about the Casermetta post – glad you did 🙂 Best wishes. Mags

Thanks, Caroline! Hi, Mags – I am starting my hike from Le Brevent. So, the last day of my hike, I am planning to go from Trient to Le Brevent (via Lac Blanc) in one day. I think that’s approximately 19 miles. I was wondering if you have completed that section and your thoughts on whether it can be done in one day? The one constraint I am running into is that the last cable car (descent) from Le Brevent to Chamonix is at 4:30pm. So, I will probably have to start super early from Trient. Not sure if this is do-able in one day. I welcome your thoughts/suggestions.

Hi Ashish this would be an incredibly long day. Do you want to take public transport? One way to cut some time would be to take the chairlift down from Col de Balme then the bubble to the village of Le Tour. Then catch a bus (or walk) down the straight road to Montroc. Cross the train tracks at Montroc and walk behind the station where there is a trail that takes you up to Tré-le-Champ (10-15 mins up). This cuts out the up to Aiguillette des Posettes and the long long descent into Tré-le-Champ. It’s the only way you could cut the trail. Cutting out the Posettes would gain you possibly 2-2.5 hours although it would take at least 45 mins to get to there via public transport but at least saving your legs for the 3 hours up to Lac Blanc from Tré-le-Champ. It would be a long long day and I have to say I would never consider it but if you are a super fast trekker and aim to set off at 6am then its possible. You could always see how you are going when you get to Flégère and if you think you’re running behind take the cable car down into the valley from Flegere instead of continuing to Brevent (2-2.5 hours further). Good luck. Let me know how you get on.

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This is a great resource bar none ! If I do stages 10 and 11 in consequtive days and want to stay at a hotel each night, would a stay in the same one both nights ? How do shuttles work at the end of each stage or what other tranportation modes are needed to return the the hotel in the evening ? Thank you

Hi Bob thanks for your kind words. I’m glad our website has helped you! Yes you can stay in the same hotel. It’s a good idea and actually I’ve recommended it before to hikers who want to see a bit of Chamonix first before setting off on the trek as it’s a good way to get a few days training hikes before leaving. Of course it sounds like you’d do this at the end of the trek so you would be arriving down from Col du Balme, to Tre-le-Champ. You will need to stay either in Argentiere, Les Praz or Chamonix. Les Praz would be more convenient as the Flegere cable car arrives here at the end of your next day but there are only a few hotels here (Hotel Eden is nice). Once you arrive in Tre-le-Champ the best way to head down the valley for the night is to walk down to the train station. To get here pass the Easter Island heads in the village (you can’t miss them!) and bear on the lower left hand trail – you will pop out at the train station in around 15 minutes. You will be able to catch the train to Argentiere, Les Praz or Chamonix. You will need to repeat this journey to get to the start of the trail again the following morning. What will be nice is that you won’t need to bring your heavy pack with you!! Stage 10 ends at Flegere – it’s a very short day even with the Lac Blanc detour so you may decide to hike on to Brevent to cut a bit of your trail time the next day. At Brevent you can also take the cable car down to the valley floor (Chamonix) so in this case it would make sense to stay overnight in Chamonix instead of Les Praz. Stage 11 ends in Chamonix Les Houches. There are frequent buses and the train that would bring you back to your hotel.If you followed this plan you could spend the 3 nights in the same hotel.

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Merci beaucoup for this information, it is much appreciated. It has helped me so much in planning. The information is succinct and the web design in phenomenal!

I would like to start at Champex, go anti-clockwise, hike the TMB back around to Champex then continue on to hike the Walkers Haute Route to Zermatt. I plan on getting to Champex early to mid September after hiking a long trail in the USA June-Sept, so will have my “trail legs” then hopefully. It looks like the UTMB race will be over at the end of August so this will not be an issue. I also want to camp in a tent for the majority of the trail, sleeping in Refuges only infrequently and when I do I would not need a private room. I have ultra light gear and have experience through hiking in the USA.

Is this an unwise plan, given the start date I have chosen? It looks like the weather will still be reasonable. I do not want to miss too many beautiful views due to bad weather (but do not want to wait another year for TMB and Haute)! In September do I still need reserve Refuge bunk beds far in advance? Could I just see what’s available on the trail as I hike? I was planning on the Refuges just for a little food and a shower mostly. Last thing, what is your opinion on using my Zpacks Duplex tent for this time of year? I’m thinking I might need my NEMO Hornet tent instead but it’s heavy. Thank you!

Hi, the weather is normally still very good in September and indeed has rarely any thunder storms compared to August! I had one day of rain in 8 days last year but of course it can vary. I hiked the trail solo in September last year and didn’t book refuges in advance. I only got caught out on one night but managed to find somewhere in the end. I would suggest starting early September if you are planning on continuing onto the Haute Route after. Some refuges ask you to book a meal the day before but most would allow you to eat if there is enough food by just turning up – a few might not so always have a back up handy in the form of expedition food etc just in case. Take the lightweight tent. Bear in mind that wild camping in Italy and Switzerland is tricky. Italy it is legal after 2500m! and Switzerland is not allowed at all so you need to camp at campsites. Courmayeur has no campsites but there are several in the Val Veny – unfortunately it means that you need to miss out stage 4 or hike it & come back round but that’s quite a mission. Hobo Camping is good https://www.campinghobo.com/en/ . I will be camping the trail in July! Have a great hike. All the best. Mags

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Hi We’re planning on doing the TMB clockwise and starting at the Brevent. This gives us two opportunities to see some of the best views if the weather is not good. Telepherique up, then head down and stay at Lac Blanc, then normal days for a 10 day trip. Last day would be Les Houches to the Brevent and ride down. Both times up will be in the morning so it increases the chances of clear viewing. We live in Colorado, so we’ll be acclimatized and relatively fit. Any thoughts, advice? ..

Hi Tom the problem with hiking the tour clockwise, especially in Chamonix is that you will have your back to Mont Blanc all the way. I would suggest if you want to start in the Chamonix Valley and take in the magnificent views of Mont Blanc on the first few days that you start from Tre-le-Champ (get the train to Montroc and then hike up 15 minutes on the trail behind the train station up to Tre-Le-Champ) hike up to Lac Blanc and then you would continue TOWARDS Mont Blanc with the views ahead of you the whole time. You can then walk via La Flégère to Le Brévent and down to Les Houches.

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Hi, great site and thank you so much for all the information. Where can I find GPX a route file?

Hi Ori FatMaps has a great map of the TMB and you can download the GPX file

https://fatmap.com/routeid/2721627/tour-du-mont-blanc/@46.0001773,6.9058586,3170.4236129,-82.5128444,0,2243.4477193,satellite

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Hi! LOVE your website, thank you so much for all the information! I am planning to do the hike in july but I must ask, is stage 7 the only part with exposure? I love hiking in the alps but would really have a probelm walking next to sheer drops (a bit traumatised from hiking in Madeira hehe)

Hi Caroline stage 7 doesn’t have any exposure and is actually the most gentle section of the trail. Do you mean stage 10 with the ladders?

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Thanks a LOT for the great site and all the valuable info here ! Is there a Smartphone (iPhone) navigation application with detailed maps for TMB ?

Hi Mark I use the GAIA GPS app – see my article here https://tourdumontblanchike.com/tour-du-mont-blanc-gps-gaia/

Some trekkers also use Trail Trails.

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Christopher Legg

Wow, I have also just stumbled across this, whilst I know some of the area, I shall certainly use this to plan my trip. I haven’t read it all yet but I will. Thankyou. very much. Chris from Cornwall

You’re welcome. I’m glad it’s helped you plan your trip. Happy hiking.

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hi, thanks for sharing all details about TMB. Would like to know your location for wild camping, those pictures are awesome.

Hi Ivan wild camping is only permitted in one of the three countries the trek goes through – France. Here you are allowed to bivvy from sunset to sunrise. Therefore this gives plenty of scope on the first and last stages. One of the best places is Lac du Cheserys just under Lac Blanc. Camping at Lac Blanc is not permitted. In Italy wild camping is only permitted above 2500m which doesn’t leave much options and in Switzerland camping is only permitted in campsites. I am due to camp the trail in the next two weeks for my first time so I look forward to being able to share more tips about camping the TMB soon. Happy hiking!

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thank you so much for sharing all this info – it seems to have the most comprehensive explanation of each stage I’ve been able to find! I was wondering if you had suggestions on grouping stages together – I find a lot of 8-9-10 day itineraries out there and I was wondering if you had a suggested 9 day or 10 day with no rest days?

Hi Brittney. It all depends how much you want to walk each day. As there are refuges every 5km along the trail you can chop up the route into 9 or 10 days without a rest day. I’m not sure what you mean about grouping together stages if you didn’t want a rest day? Happy to help you plan your itinerary over a zoom call. You can find out more about what’s included and book here https://tourdumontblanchike.com/tmb-zoom-consultation/ . Best wishes. Mags

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Bob Bergner

Great website! Thanks for all the work (and pleasure) that went into creating it. I speed hiked the TMB a few decades ago–minimal gear, sleeping under the stars wherever the day ended for a few hours a night. It was mid June (lots of snow), so I had the trail largely to myself. A tremendous experience! Now, I’d like to take my wife on a few days of the trail at a more relaxed pace. From what I remember, the last section from Champex back to Chamonix has the most dramatic scenery. Is that correct? Thanks for a quick answer here. And I look forward to setting up a consultation if (when, really) I need more detailed information. Cheers, Bob

Hi Bob wow what an experience that must have been! Yes the variant stage 8 from Champex (via Col du Fenetre) is the most technically difficult as you have to navigate the boulder field but you also benefit from the truly incredible view of the Trient Glacier. Then Stage 10 is stunning as you are traversing along the Balcon Sud flank with Mont Blanc to your left. For me (variant) stage 1, stage 2, 3 & 4 are my favourites unless I’m taking the variant 8 then the Chamonix legs of 10 and 11. Hope that helps? Feel free to message me direct via email to set up a zoom if you need. Best. Mags

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Kathy Meldrum

Hi Mags! What a GREAT website! This info is so helpful! I have an idea for an itinerary and I’m wondering if you can provide me with any input. Is there a hike from Chamonix to Col de Balme and on to Tre le Champ where we can stay the night at Auberge La Boerne for day 1? Then on to either Lac Blanc refuge or Flegere for day 2. Then on to Bellechat for day 3 and then descend to Les Houches on day 4. We will be hiking with kids and are looking for something doable yet challenging, but I can’t quite figure out the mileage or how long it would take us. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you! -Kathy

Hi Kathy apologies for my delay in responding. Yes this itinerary would work – it’s similar to my 2.5/3 day itinerary here https://tourdumontblanchike.com/3-day-itinerary-lac-blanc/

You can get the train or bus to Montroc and then there is a trail from the back of Montroc train station that takes you up to Tre-Le-Champ. Often it’s easier to do this instead of getting the specific bus from Argentiere to Tre-Le-Champ as it doesn’t go very often but buses go regularly past Montroc up to Le Tour and the train stops there once an hour. It takes between 20-30 minutes to hike up the easy trail.

It only takes around 3 hours to hike from La Boerne to Lac Blanc however you will be hiking with kids so lets say 5 hours so you could have a late start enjoying your breakfast (however all refuges will kick you out around 8 or 9am so La Boerne may do this as well. Its definitely worth staying in Lac Blanc if you can get the reservation though over Refuge Flegere. The kids will love the ladders on the way up from La Boerne!

Bellachat doesn’t have a shower just to let you know but it would be a necessary stop for you with kids. It’s a good itinerary. Go for it!

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Excellent article, thanks so much for sharing and wishing you many more hiking adventures. Katie

Thanks Katie. Have a great trek!

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Hi! I’ve used this resource while planning over the past year and it’s been a huge help! We’re leaving in 2 weeks to begin half of the TMB, Chamonix – Courmayeur. Time is limited as we plan to travel to see the rest of Italy after. However, I’ve been disappointed to not see the great views everyone talks about in the final stages. Is there a way to take the Brévent cable car to Le Brévent, see the views and continue on to Les Contamines without making the descent down into Les Houches? Any public transportation options we could use to try and combine stage 11 and 1? We’re not scared of a long day, just not sure how doable it all is.

Hi Aysia absolutely you can take the Brevent cable car from the centre of Chamonix (you have to walk up the steep hill from the Gendarmerie to get to the cable car station). Take the first cable car up to the mid station (Plan Praz) then you can get the next cable car up to the summit of Brevent, have a look and then come back down. You can then get the no 1 bus from the Chamonix Centre bus stop (which is just around the corner from the Gendarmerie) to Les Houches. There is a bus stop right outside Bellevue cable car (bus stop Bellevue) or if you want to walk through the official arch to start the trek outside the tourist office you would need to get off at ‘Les Houches Mairie’ stop which is two stops before Bellevue. Its just a 10 minute walk to walk down the main road to Bellevue if you wanted to get a photo at the arch. Hope this helps! Have a great trek!

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Would you please provide information on the itinerary and refugios you took? Planning the same over ideally 5 or so days! Thanks

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Thank you so much for the helpful site, it has been my go-to reference for planning my trip. We are doing the traditional 11 day itinerary beginning is Les Houches, and would like to spend the last night at Lac Blanc. I understand the last day is rough on the knees and having a bad knee already I am curious if staying at Lac Blanc that night will add to the decent on day 11, and if there is a shortcut option to cut down on some of the intense downhill. Thanks!

Hi Rachelle thanks for the kind words. Yes staying in Lac Blanc will add a little onto the next day however what I would do is descend down from Lac Blanc to Refuge Flegere and continue along the TMB balcony trail towards Brevent (epic views along here of Mont Blanc) then when you get to Plan Praz (the mid station at Brevent) I would take the cable car up to the summit and then maybe finish your trek there. There is a cafe there so you can have a celebratory beer overlooking the viewing platform for Mont Blanc and then get the summit cable car down and then the mid station cable car down to Chamonix. This leaves out the long 1300m descent into Chamonix on stage 11. Or the alternative is to add an extra night at the Bellachat refuge so that you split this day in two. Hope this helps.

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I, of course, must add that this site is beyond helpful (so many things that I didn’t even know I needed to know)

I thought I was finished planning a shortened version of the TMB. However, after going through your site, I think I need to make an adjustment.

Because we are time limited, we will be skipping certain portions (taking the bus from Courmayeur to Arnuva, then another from Ferret to Champex; and taking the train from Argentiere to Chamonix).

However, Brevent and Balcon Sud seem like they shouldn’t be missed (I love mountain ladders, and scary, narrow paths with great views). We have one day in Chamonix built in before we start (in case the flight from the US has issues). We could use this day to see those areas.

Do you have a suggestion on a one-day version to/from Chamonix to the Brevent / Balcon Sud area (I have no qualms about taking chair lifts/gondolas to make this work)

Thank you so much for making the TMB do-able for all of us.

Hi Anne. Merry Christmas. Apologies for my late reply. Absolutely you can do stage 10 and some of 11 as a day hike. You would need to get the bus or the train from Chamonix to Montroc. I would choose the train if I were you as its a lovely ride and free with the Chamonix guest card that you can get from your hotel. Read my post https://tourdumontblanchike.com/what-is-a-chamonix-guest-card-carte-dhote/ (note there is a bus stop right outside the train station at Montroc too). Disembark from the train then turn right and keep right until you reach a small car park where you’ll see an unsigned trail head – this is the trail up to Tre-Le-Champ. It won’t take you long to reach the village and you’ll be surprised by a number of carved Easter Island heads on the corner when you arrive in the hamlet. With the heads on your right, carry on straight and up to the main Col des Montets busy road. Cross and see the well signposted trail ahead of you. This is the start of stage 10 and is the traditional ladders route. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the ladders which start at the L’Aiguillette d’Argentière (a rock spire where you’ll find rock climbers climbing) and end at the Tete dux Vents, the cairn which marks the turn off for Lac Blanc. It takes me 3 hours to get to Lac Blanc from Tre-Le-Champ. It’s nice to have lunch here and admire the view before descending down to Refuge Flegere (around an hour). Then you can walk the balcony between Flegere and Brevent. It takes a couple of hours and the views of Mont Blanc are outstanding. You can then choose to take the summit cable car up to Brevent from Plan Praz (the mid station). It’s a great view up there and there is a cafe. This is a good place to end your trek as it takes a further 4-5 hours to descend from the summit of Brevent down to Les Houches to complete stage 11 so I would take the summit cable back down to Plan Praz and then catch the cable car from Plan Praz back down to the centre of Chamonix. A perfect day! Enjoy! Best wishes. Mags

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Hiking & Trail Running in Chamonix

Towns & Hamlets

Contributors:

Le Tour is located at the north-eastern end of the Chamonix Valley past Argentiere near the border with Switzerland. Being at the end of the valley, it finds itself surrounded by mountains on all sides. There are many trails heading in all directions from Le Tour. On the eastern edge lies the Montagne de Posettes with its highest point being the crest summit of the Aiguillette des Posettes . On the north-eastern side lies the ski domain of Le Tour with its highest point being the Tete de Balme summit at 2321m right on the edge with Switerland. On the western side lies the Montagne de Peclerey with the hamlet of Le Planet located at a plateau below it.   The Petit Balcon Nord starts at Le Tour and enables you to visit all the hamlets and towns all the way down to Chamonix using a low altitude but very scenic and easy nature trail.

Le Tour is one of the main ski areas of the Chamonix Valley and in the summer the ski lifts are open for hikers, runners and mountain bikers. For mountain bikers there are marked trails of varying difficulties and the lifts enable you to bring your bike up. For hikers and runners the lifts enable easier access to higher altitude routes such as the trail taking you to the Refuge Albert Premier next to the Glacier du Tour . The glacier can be seen from the valley floor and the hamlet of Le Tour but the best views are definitely from the trail to the refuge and the refuge itself.

Le Tour has a Catholic Church and a beautiful little Chapel located very close to each other in the heart of the hamlet. Le Tour has a couple of restaurants located around the bottom of the lift station. There are no bakeries or super markets at Le Tour with Argentiere being the nearest town for those type of facilities. The nearest train station is Montroc-le-Planet from where you can either walk up to Le Tour or take the bus. Le Tour has a bus stop near the lift station. There is lot of parking around the lift station too in case you want to visit by car.

Nearest town to this point of interest

Nearest Town

Altitude of this point of interest

Accommodation

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Linked Trails & Points of Interest

These are the trails and points of interests linked to this Hamlet

Le Tour and Montroc Short Loop

Loop Trail:

A fantastic family-friendly loop between the hamlets of Le Tour and Montroc with a nice variety of forest, views and charming hamlets

Trail Length

End Apr - End Oct

How long does it take to hike this trail

Hiking Time

1.5 - 2.0 Hours

Elevation gain and loss for this trail

Elevation +

+226m / -226m

How old do kids have to be to go on this trail

4+ Years old

How long does it take to run this trail

Running Time

45 - 75 Mins

The technical difficulty level of this trail

Technical Difficulty

Are dogs allowed on this trail

Dogs Allowed

Nearest Town to this Trail

Low altitude, easy and family friendly trail that takes you from Le Tour, to Argentiere to Le Lavancher and ends up in Chamonix using the Petit Balcon Nord (PBN)

Mid Apr - End Oct

2.5 - 4.0 Hours

+226m / -683m

7+ Years old

1.5 - 2.5 Hours

Very Easy (1/5)

Le Tour to Refuge Albert 1er

Exceptional

This route takes you from the village of Le Tour to the high altitude refuge Albert 1er, right next to the Glacier du Tour

Start Jul - End Sep

3.0 - 5.0 Hours

+862m / -862m

Chapelle du Tour

Above Average

Small Catholic Chapel in the heart of the hamlet of Le Tour

Nearest town to this point of interest

High altitude Refuge at 2702 meters right next to the Glacier du Tour

Aiguillette des Posettes

Mountain Ridge

Crest Summit above Le Tour on the crest towards the Tete de Balme

Montroc

Small Hamlet on the road from Argentiere to Le Tour

Glacier du Tour

Glacier above the town of Le Tour with the trail to the Refuge Albert 1er enabling close access

Jean-Marie Blanc Monument

Memorial for Jean-Marie Blanc who died in a helicopter crash in 1977

Chalet de Charamillon

Large snack with huge terrace in between the Charamillon and Autannes lifts

Location & Map

Below you will the location of this point of interest on the map. You can click the button to show the nearby trails and points of interests that are listed above on the same map. Another option is to visit our complete interactive map that shows everything that is listed on our website.

Cost Comparison: Tour du Mont Blanc Camping vs. Hotels

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When I solo hiked five long-distance trails back-to-back in Europe and eventually completed the Tour du Mont Blanc in France, Italy, and Switzerland , I carried a heavy backpack and tried to camp in a tent as many nights as possible to keep costs down. Of all the trails I’ve done, I found that the 100 mile Tour Du Mont Blanc most lends itself to a combination of accommodation styles. You can tent camp the entire route, but you have to get creative and stray from the classic trail a few times in order to be a camping purist. To follow the path of least resistance, it can make more sense to book the occasional rifugio or hotel room. In fact, mountain refuges feel like a quintessential part of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc; you may regret completely avoiding them in favor of camping every night.

The following is a day-by-day comparison of what it costs to solo hike the Tour du Mont Blanc via camping vs. staying in hotels, hostels, or refuges, assuming you spend 10 days going anti-clockwise starting from Les Houches. With this information and with your budget in mind, you can make your own choices about whether you’d like to stick to one style or mix and match – or perhaps just book an all-inclusive guided tour instead.

Not interested in seeing how the prices break down day-by-day? Click here to zoom to the end of the post where I tally up all the final costs.

Read First: Pricing Context

This is simply the “base cost” of transportation and accommodation for the classic Tour du Mont Blanc trekking route; it does not include variables that would differ wildly from person to person, such as extra food costs, new gear, rest days, or possible trail variants and day hikes off of the main route. It is also assuming that you are choosing to do a self-guided solo hike of the Tour du Mont Blanc because you want to save money, and therefore I am not going to include prices for the most high-end luxury resorts.

I can’t possibly list every hotel that exists, especially in resort towns like Courmayeur and Chamonix; I am providing a sample of well-rated and affordable options near the trail that typically don’t enforce a minimum length of stay.

Note that I am assuming you’re hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in the middle of summer (July/August), but prices will vary based on the day of the week, surge pricing because of local events such as the UTMB marathon, etc. This post is meant to give you a rough idea of how much you can expect to pay to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided, but you should of course double check the most recent prices yourself.

If you are extremely determined, you may be able to camp for free even more often than I’ve presented here. I am only listing wildcamping options where it seems both legal and at least somewhat convenient. The wildcamping rules change between each of the three countries and there are restrictions based on what elevation you’re at and what time you set up and break down camp, so it can get very complicated. Reference Nomads with a Purpose , TMBtent , and Sling Adventures for more information about wildcamping for free as well as campsite options available to you on alternate routes (such as Fenêtre d’Arpette, Col de Tricot, etc). 

Tip : You can book a lot of the hotels and refuges I recommend via Mon Tour du Mont Blanc .

The Most Beautiful (and Skippable) Stages of the Tour Du Mont Blanc

Day 0: travel day to chamonix / les houches.

At the start of the trek, some hikers prefer to stay somewhere close-ish to Gare Routière where the buses from Geneva drop off, because this will also put you walking distance from the popular and fancy part of Chamonix where you can find outdoor gear shops, groceries, and restaurants. Other people may prioritize staying near the Tour du Mont Blanc starting trailhead in Les Houches so they can start hiking immediately on Day 1. There are amenities in Les Houches too but it’s a little quieter over there.

Another criteria when choosing accommodation for the night before your trek is luggage storage. You may have extra items that you flew to Geneva with that you don’t need to hike with.

Transportation

BlaBlaCar Bus from Geneva Airport to Chamonix: €19.81 Alternative: AlpyBus from Geneva Airport to Chamonix: €39.50

AlpyBus offers door-to-door pickup and dropoff. BlaBlaBus drops off at Gare Routière at 234 Avenue de Courmayeur in Chamonix, which is walking distance from a lot of hotels and campsites in Chamonix, or a local bus ride away from Les Houches.

Camping Les Arolles : €13.20 (€4.90 tent site + €8.30 per adult). TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Camping Le Grand Champ : €14.20 (€7 tent site + €7.20 per adult). Camping Bellevue €11 (€3.50 tent site + €7.50 per adult).

Camping Les Arolles is in Chamonix and walking distance from where the buses from Geneva drop off. They do not take advanced reservations; you can just show up day-of. Arolles offers paid luggage storage.

Camping Le Grand Champ is in between Chamonix and Les Houches; I camped here on my first trip to the area and it was very cozy and peaceful with a cool view of a jagged peak. If you don’t have door-to-door drop-off with your shuttle from Geneva, then you’d need to take a local bus to get here from Chamonix. You do not need to make advanced reservations here except in peak season of July 12-August 18th. They don’t ask for a deposit for reservations.

Camping Bellevue is in Les Houches and walking distance from the trailhead; it’s the only campsite that wouldn’t require a bus ride to get to the trailhead in the morning. 

La Chaumière Mountain Lodge : €138 no meals, €150 with breakfast, €173 half board. TripAdvisor. Alternatives : Chamonix Lodge Hostel €50 includes breakfast. Vert Lodge Chamonix €55 includes breakfast. La Croix Blanche €131-€177 depending on meals chosen. Hôtel Le Morgane €153-€191. Hôtel Vallée Blanche €158. Les Houches: Ibis €119. Le Saint-Antoine €185. RockyPop €94-€141.

I once booked a bunk at Chamonix Lodge hostel and really enjoyed it; they have a free breakfast, free luggage storage, and they are only about a 15 minute walk from where the buses drop off in Chamonix. They also have private rooms, but then you’re paying the same that you would for a regular hotel.

I once stayed at La Chaumière, which also offers luggage storage and is a 15 minute walk from where the bus from Geneva drops off. It’s a more typical hotel where you have your own room. It was super cozy and I had a balcony with a great view of the mountains. There is a convenient bus stop just outside the hotel, slightly down the road. In the morning you’ll want to ride the bus to Les Houches to begin the Tour du Mont Blanc.

There are innumerable hotel, hostel, and B&B options to choose from throughout Chamonix and Les Houches. You can find something within practically any budget. Hostels will be about €40-60 per bed in the peak summer season. Les Houches will generally be cheaper than Chamonix.

Day 1: Les Houches to Les Contamines

Local bus to starting trailhead of TMB: $0.

Most campsites and hotels will have given you a free bus pass .

Camping Le Pontet : €11.40. Can add €18 dinner reservation, €11 breakfast buffet. TripAdvisor . Alternative : Wildcamping near Refuge de la Balme or Refuge de Nant Borrant for €0.

Camping Le Pontet has plenty of room for tents, a nice bathroom and shower block, a laundry room, plus a covered eating area and bar where there are enough outlets for a lot of people to charge their phones all at once. If you don’t reserve an official meal, you can order food from the little bar; I got a sandwich. You can reserve a tent spot in advance if you want, but you pay on arrival.

As you’re walking towards the campsite, you will pass through the town of Les Contamines with all of its amenities and hotels and continue along the river Bon-Nant to reach the more secluded (but quite developed) Le Pontet. In the morning you’ll follow the road to Notre-Dame de la Gorge to begin the next stage.

If you want to get a jump on the next stage and/or save money, you could wildcamp near the refuges as described by TMBtent or Nomads With a Purpose . I will admit that I found this day to be quite long, so going the extra distance to wildcamp would have been exhausting to me.

Refuge de Nant Borrant : €57.80 half board dorm, shower included. €12 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternative : Refuge de la Balme : €62 half board dorm, shower included. €13 packed lunch.

If you are willing to add another 45 minutes or so of hiking to the end of your day, you could continue on to the Nant Borrant Refuge and sleep in a dorm bed. Another hour and 15 minutes past that is Refuge de la Balme. Staying at either of these places will give you a jump on Day 2.

Chalet-hôtel Gai Soleil : €88 private bunk bed room for 1-2 people includes breakfast buffet. Other types of rooms (€95 single, €114 economy double) can have breakfast added on for €13. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Chalet-Hôtel La Chemenaz €242. Studio 4 couchages “l’Appel de la Montagne” €63.

If you stop in Les Contamines instead of continuing on to Camping le Pontet or the refuges, you will have hotel options and even some private apartment rentals that are actually cheaper than hotels.

Day 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Free campsite in the field by the tourist office: €0. Alternative : Camp outside of Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme for €0.

You’ll descend down into the small hamlet of Les Chapieux from Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. There is a main street lined with a few hotels and a shop with snacks, and a giant field where campers can pitch their tents for free. You do not have to reserve a spot. The campsite does have toilets but no showers. Do not expect to have cell service in Les Chapieux. You might also have trouble finding a place to charge your phone.

Les Chapieux is right along the TMB and there’s nothing else around, so there’s no need to stray from the path to reach the campsite nor to rejoin the trail in the morning.

If you camp outside of the Croix du Bonhomme refuge you’ll have phenomenal views, but it’s quite exposed and could be problematic in bad weather. My friends who camped there also said they had some kind of horrific issue with flies or bugs of some kind. You have to pass this refuge along the trail anyway, so you will get the view even if you don’t camp there.

Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme : €27.38 no meals or €59.88 half board. €3 showers, €10 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternative : Refuge Des Mottets €55 half board includes shower. €13 packed lunch.

You can stop short of Les Chapieux to stay at Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme, or you can hike two hours past Les Chapieux to stay at Refuge Des Mottets. You have to pass both refuges eventually anyway; it’s a matter of cutting your Day 2 mileage short, or extending it and getting a jump on Day 3.

The hike from Croix du Bonhomme to Les Chapieux is a long descent, so if you have knee problems, you might enjoy waiting to tackle that on Day 3 instead of doing it at the end of Day 2 after you’ve already been hiking all day. The hike from Les Chapieux to Mottets is pretty flat.

Auberge de la Nova : €66 half board dorm or €80 half board room. €14 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternative : Les Chambres du Soleil €70 half board dorms or €96 for a room. €12 packed lunch.

There are two auberge options in Les Chapieux. There are a lot more options in nearby Bourg-Saint-Maurice, but you’d have to take the bus or an expensive taxi to get to that town from Les Chapieux. When you search for Les Chambres du Soleil, for some reason Google Maps wants to tell you it’s located in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, but it’s actually in Les Chapieux.

Day 3: Les Chapieux to Refugio Elisabetta

Rifugio Elisabetta : €54 half board dorm. €2 shower token, €10 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Cabane du Combal €95 half board. €15 packed lunch. Rifugio Monte Bianco €58-85 half board. €12 packed lunch.

Rifugio Elisabetta is one of the quintessential TMB refuges that most hikers really want to prioritize. It’s a dormitory-style mountain hut that sits right next to a glacier! After I arrived and took a lightning-quick 4 minute token-operated shower, I sat outside to admire the glacier up close while waiting for the included dinner service. 

They will randomly seat you at a table with other hikers for the meals. The dinner was great, but the breakfast was just some toast. If you typically need a big breakfast to fuel your hiking days, you’ll want to supplement with your own food. They do also have snacks (such as chips/crisps) and cold drinks you can purchase separately from the meals.

You really need to book as far in advance as possible to grab a spot, but day-of you could always swing by and ask if they have any last minute cancellations/openings.

Camping Hobo : €15.50 (€7 per tent site + €8.50 per adult). TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Camping Aiguille Noire €15 (€6 per tent site + €9 per adult; they also have €18 dorms). Camping Monte Bianco La Sorgente €14.50 (€6 per tent site + €8.50 per adult).

In order to camp on this day (or stay at Rifugio Monte Bianco), you would have to go off of the classic TMB route and add more mileage. The closest campsites are in Val Veny, another ~2 or 2.5 hour walk from Rifugio Elisabetta. You’re getting quite close to Courmayeur at that point, which is supposed to be the endpoint for tomorrow’s hike, unless you plan to skip ahead to Day 5’s itinerary tomorrow. If that’s the case, tomorrow you can take a free shuttle bus from Val Veny to Courmayeur to start your hiking day.

The classic hike from Elisabetta to Courmayeur includes some of my favorite views of the entire trek (for the first half of the day anyway, from Elisabetta to Maison Vieille; the last half of the day sucks). If you take the variant to Val Veny instead and basically skip Day 4, you’ll miss out. Sling Adventures made up for this by hanging around the area an extra day in order to complete a day hike of the section they missed.

Day 4: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

Cabinlift Dolonne + chairlift Maison Vieille one way : €15.

The first half of Day 4 is gorgeous, but the second half grinds the knees and is not very pretty. You can avoid the second half by taking the chairlift from Maison Vieille to Dolonne (it’s broken up into two rides; at one point you’ll transfer from a chairlift to a cabinlift).

Hotel Ottoz : €90.50 includes breakfast. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Hotel Dolonne €90. iH Hotels Courmayeur Mont Blanc €138. Cresta et Duc Hotel €170. Hotel le Jumeaux €162. Maison La Saxe €190.

Courmayeur is lively and touristy; besides Chamonix this is the biggest town you’ll visit on the TMB. There are tons of restaurants and shops for resupply, although they’re all closed for a few hours for a lunch break around the time hikers start to arrive in town.

As soon as you come off the mountain, you hit the Dolonne neighborhood of Courmayeur first. It seems to have some cheaper accommodation options; this is where Hotel Ottoz is. Most other hotels are located in the main city center of Courmayeur and will involve additional walking to reach. I was grateful to have my own room, a longer hot shower, and the ability to sink-wash some clothes and hang them to dry outside on the clothesline.

This is another stage without any obvious campsites. You could take a bus from Courmayeur to camp in Val Veny (see campsite list for Day 3). If you already hiked all the way to the Val Veny campsites yesterday and basically skipped Day 4, then today you could do a day hike to see what you missed and camp at Val Veny again. Or, you might move on and end up at one of the Val Ferret campsites tonight (see campsite list for Day 5).

Rifugio Maison Vieille : €70.50 half board dorm, €45.50 breakfast only, €30.50 no meals. €15 packed lunch. TripAdvisor .

You have to pass Maison Vieille along the classic TMB route regardless of whether you stop there. It’s the last outpost before you start the grueling and non-scenic descent down into Courmayeur at the end of Day 4. I honestly recommend taking the ski lift from Maison Vieille into Courmayeur to save your knees; you won’t be missing anything interesting on the trail. However, if you stay at the refuge tonight, the following morning I believe the lift down into Courmayeur won’t open until 9:30am. This means that if you wanted to explore Courmayeur at all or restock supplies, you might be getting a pretty late start to your hiking day on Day 5.

Day 5: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Rifugio Bonatti : €70 half board dorm, includes shower token. Sleeping liner mandatory or for rent for €3. €12 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Rifugio Bertone €65 half board dorm, includes shower token. €12 packed lunch. Rifugio Elena €58.50 half board dorm or €35.50 without meals, includes shower token. €11 packed lunch.

Rifugio Bonatti is another dormitory-style mountain hut that is practically synonymous with the Tour du Mont Blanc. It had the best dinner of my entire trek, and the continental breakfast included in their half board was much more sufficient than the one at Elisabetta. Like at Elisabetta, you will be randomly seated at a table with other hikers for dinner, and you can buy snacks if you need a pick-me-up while you’re waiting for mealtimes. The 4-minute showers are token-operated just like Elisabetta.

The view of the Mont Blanc massif from the seating area in front of Bonatti is spectacular. As you leave Bonatti you’ll say goodbye to Mont Blanc itself, which will not reappear until Col du Balme on Day 9.

You really need to refuges book as far in advance as possible to grab a spot. If Bonatti is all booked up, you can hike on further to stay at Rifugio Elena instead. Bertone is prior to Bonatti; from Courmayeur to Bertone would be a pretty quick day (but at 5.5 miles, too long to tack onto yesterday’s hike).

Camping Grand Jorasses : €14.50 (€9 per adult + €5.50 per tent site). Paid showers. TripAdvisor . Alternative : Camping Tronchey : €14.50 (€9 per adult + €5.50 per tent site). Paid showers.

These campsites are down below Rifugio Bonatti in Val Ferret near Plampincieux. Camping there requires leaving the official TMB route behind. You’ll hike past Bonatti for another 1.5-2 hours until you reach Chalet Val Ferret, then take a bus to reach the campsites. In the morning you can take the bus back to Chalet Val Ferret to rejoin the trail. I have seen it reported in a few places that this shuttle is now free .

It’s also possible to take a spur trail into Val Ferret just after you pass Bonatti instead of hiking all the way to Chalet Val Ferret. The spur trail takes about an hour and there is a bus stop here too. However, if you don’t want to miss any of the TMB, the next morning it would suck to climb back up to Bonatti where you left off. Starting the next day at Chalet Val Ferret is easier.

Chalet Val Ferret €130.80 half board. €12 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Hotel Miravalle €113-168. Chalet Svizzero €190 includes breakfast.

If you are willing to head into Plampincieux on the bus from Chalet Val Ferret as described in the camping section, you will have some lodging options there. You’ll need to take the bus back again in the morning to rejoin the trail.

Day 6: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Camping des Glaciers : CHF26.60 (€28.08) includes showers. Trip Advisor .

I really enjoyed the spacious Camping des Glaciers and its lovely view of the mountains. Like most of the paid campsites along the Tour du Mont Blanc, it’s a drive-in campsite with a lot of other campers and caravaners. You won’t feel like you’re roughing it, but this also means you’ll have easy access to any amenities you need. There is a small communal building for campers where you can leave your phone to charge and the reception office has a limited selection of snacks. You are walking distance from a bigger grocery store in La Fouly. Don’t forget to buy Swiss chocolate!

It is possible to reserve and pay in full in advance for your tent site.

Hôtel Edelweiss : CHF 92.40 (€97.55) half board dorm or CHF 72.40 (€76.43) with breakfast only. Private room costs vary; CHF 100-193 half board room or CHF 128.60-165.60 with breakfast only. CHF 14 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Auberge des Glaciers CHF 97.20 half board dorm or CHF 152.50 half board room. CHF 14 packed lunch. L’auberge Maya-Joie CHF 72 dorm and breakfast. CHF 18 for evening meal, CHF 12 packed lunch.

A friend I met on the trail stayed at Hôtel Edelweiss and spoke well of it, so I will extend the recommendation. La Fouly is a small tourist village with a handful of non-camping options.

Gîte de la Léchère : CHF 71.40 half board dorm. CHF 12 packed lunch. TripAdvisor .

You’ll notice that when auberges are located within a more built-up village and offer dorms (or both dorms and private rooms), I’ve listed them under “hotels,” and when a mountain hut is in a remote part of the trail without anything else around, I list it as a “refuge.” I’m going to consider Gîte de la Léchère to be a mountain refuge because when I hiked past it during my trek, it gave me a similar vibe as Rifugio Elisabetta or Bonatti. It’s very close to La Fouly, but not close enough that you’d want to venture into town for a small errand if you don’t have to. 

Day 7: La Fouly to Champex 

Camping Les Rocailles : Their “Hiker’s Package” is CHF 19 per person (€20.06). This includes the tent pitch, shower, electronics charging, wifi, tax, etc. TripAdvisor .

With your back to Champex, follow the road until you reach Camping Les Rocailles at the end of town. The campsite has a place to charge your phone and a limited selection of refreshments to buy. Like the prior night’s campsite in La Fouly, caravans and motorhomes can also stay here, and there is a grassy pitch for tent campers. Unlike in La Fouly, you cannot reserve a tent site in advance.

The campsite is walking distance to everything in Champex, so you can easily hit up a grocery store or outdoor gear shop. My new friends and I walked down to the lakeshore for a picnic and a few people went for a swim.

Gîte Bon Abri : CHF 34 (€35.89) dorm with no meals, or CHF 71 (€74.96) half board dorm. CHF 53-58 (€56-61) for private room, or CHF 90-95 (€95-100) half board private room. CHF 12 breakfast, CHF 25 dinner, CHF 14 packed lunch. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Pension en Plein Air  CHF 82 half board dorm. Hôtel Alpina Champex CHF 183.60 or CHF 232.60 half board, Hotel Mont Lac Champex CHF 190, Hôtel Splendide CHF 156.60, Le Belvédère CHF 120 with breakfast, half board is additional CHF 35.

There are lots of hotels in Champex. Ones like Au Club Alpin are more expensive because of their fancy lakeside suites, but you can find more affordable well-rated alternatives like those I’ve listed above. The most affordable one, Gîte Bon Abri, is about a 30 minute walk away from the lake and town. For Hôtel Splendide, note you can only book by email, otherwise a multi-night minimum is enforced. Be sure to read TripAdvisor reviews – the ones for Belvédère are hit or miss.

Day 8: Champex to Trient/Col de la Forclaz

Le Peuty campsite CHF 6.00 (€6.33). TripAdvisor . Alternative : Camping on property of Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz : CHF 18.00 includes showers (CHF 8 for small tent + CHF 10 per adult), or CHF 45 half board. CHF 16 breakfast.

You can camp very cheaply at Le Peuty in Trient, and staying there will give you a jump on the following day’s hike, but Le Peuty campsite does not have many amenities. Some new trail friends and I chose the campsite in the backyard of Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz and were grateful for a little communal building where we could hide from rain, charge phones, and play cards at the indoor tables. The hotel has a nice restaurant where we ordered Swiss fondue! There is a tiny souvenir shop across from the hotel with a couple snacks, but otherwise there’s not much else around.

That said, the people who worked in the restaurant at the hotel were blatantly annoyed by campers hanging around and were kind of rude to us. When I hiked past the Le Peuty campsite the next day, there were a lot of campers there and it seemed like a more welcoming hiker hangout space. Campers can book a meal at Refuge Le Peuty even if they’re not staying in the dorms; hopefully the people at the refuge are nicer about it than the people at Hôtel de la Forclaz.

A tent site cannot be reserved in advance at either location, you can just show up.

Hôtel du Col de la Forclaz : CHF 45 (€47.51) dorm with no meals, CHF 55 (€58.06) dorm and breakfast, CHF 75 (€79.18) half board dorm. A private room could be anywhere from CHF 58-199 depending on type of room and which meals you want to include. TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Refuge Le Peuty CHF 66 half board dorm. CHF 11 packed lunch. Auberge du Mont Blanc CHF 40-68 dorm depending on meals chosen. La Grande Ourse CHF 75 half board dorm or CHF 162 half board private room. CHF 15 packed lunch.

If you hike down into Trient instead of stopping in Forclaz, this village has a handful of hotel options (and a really cute pink church to take photos of).

Day 9: Col de la Forclaz to Tré-le-Champ

Camping on property of Auberge La Boerne : €8-10, showers included. €40 half board camping. TripAdvisor . Alternative : Camping du Glacier d’Argentière €11.20 (€7.50 per adult + €3.70 tent pitch). According to Nomads with a Purpose , you can wildcamp for free at Col de Posettes (though not at the summit of Aiguillette des Posettes) or sometimes at Refuge du Col de Balme if the owner gives permission.

Auberge La Boerne is a dormitory that also has a campsite option. You do not have to make a reservation in advance if camping with your own tent. Their restaurant is open for à la carte orders at lunchtime, and you can sign up in advance to join the breakfast service (€10) or the evening meal (€20). I am guessing that perhaps the €8 tent camping fee has increased to €10 for 2024, because if you add €8 + €10 breakfast + €20 dinner, you get €38, so why would half board be listed as €40?

As you’re now nearing the end of the circuit at Chamonix, Auberge La Boerne feels like an adventurer’s outpost where you might meet bicyclists, climbers, or weekenders in addition to your fellow trekkers. It’s near a neighborhood and isn’t a wilderness experience, but it still feels tucked away and cozy and isn’t bustling like Chamonix.

You can walk to the nearby Montroc train station if you need to visit Argentière for supplies or an ATM. That’s also how you’d get to Camping du Glacier d’Argentière; if you stay there you’d need to take the train back to Tré-le-Champ to rejoin the trail in the morning.

Auberge La Boerne : €55 half board dorm. €12 packed lunch.  TripAdvisor . Alternatives : Gîte Le Moulin €49 half board dorm. €11 packed lunch. Les Grands Montets €181, or €195 with breakfast.

There are hotels and chalets near the Montroc train station in Tré-le-Champ, in Le Tour a short walk away, or in the closest “big” town of Argentière, which you may want to ride the train to.

Refuge du Col de Balme : €55 half board dorm. TripAdvisor .

I loved taking a break at this refuge around lunchtime during my trek; the restaurant has a lot of options, including the best apricot almond tarte I’ve ever tasted. It’s located halfway along the route of Day 9, prior to Aiguillette des Posettes which is the big dramatic viewpoint of the day. It might make sense to sleep here and do Aiguillette des Posettes the following day if you plan on staying near Lac Blanc tomorrow night (a popular day hike/variant off the TMB path) instead of hiking on to Chamonix. Otherwise it’s kind of an odd stopping point.

If you do venture to Lac Blanc in between stages 9 and 10, note you can’t wildcamp at Lac Blanc itself, but you can at Lacs de Chéserys nearby. Refuge options in between stages 9 and 10 include Refuge La Flégère and Refuge de Bellachat.

Day 10: Tré-le-Champ to Chamonix

Refer back to Day 0.

Day 11: Travel Day

BlaBlaBus is usually cheaper, but they may not have an early enough pickup time for you to make your flight on Day 11. AlpyBus does door-to-door pickup from hotels throughout Chamonix and they can come get you quite early in the morning.

✈️ Coming to Europe from further afield? Use an  Airalo eSIM  for affordable international cell data and don’t forget to protect your investment with  travel insurance .

Total Base Cost to Solo Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

All of these price totals assume you are taking BlaBlaBus both into and out of Chamonix instead of AlpyBus. I did not add on any costs for packed picnic lunches or paid shower tokens. I did not add the €15 chairlift from Maison Vieille to Courmayeur since this is optional.

€187.39 = Camping only, assuming you camp at Camping Hobo twice (Day 3 and Day 4). I did not add the optional meal services at Camping Le Pontet or Auberge La Boerne.

€281.39 = Camping mostly, with stays at Rifugio Elisabetta and Rifugio Bonatti. I did not add the optional meal services at Camping Le Pontet or Auberge La Boerne.

€356.39 = Camping mostly, with stays at Elisabetta and Bonatti, plus a hotel in Courmayeur. I did not add the optional meal services at Camping Le Pontet or Auberge La Boerne.

€690-790 = Never tent camping, choosing bunks at refuges and auberges as often as possible instead of private rooms, except in Courmayeur. The lower end of the price range represents opting out of half board when possible. If you stay at Rifugio Maison Vieille instead of a hotel in Courmayeur, you can subtract another €20-60 depending on your chosen meal inclusions at Maison Vieille.

€1100-1250 = Never tent camping, always choosing private rooms, except for the bunks at Rifugio Elisabetta and Rifugio Bonatti. The lower end of the price range represents opting out of half board when possible.

As a piece of advice – I would say that opting out of half board in favor of resupplying at grocery stores in town is not really going to save you money. Food in town is expensive too.

For comparison – guided trekking companies charge between $2,200-$4,800 for a Tour du Mont Blanc trip (if you see something cheaper, pay attention to whether it’s self-guided vs. fully guided, and whether the tour skips some days of the circuit).

Cost Breakdown: Solo Hiking the West Highland Way [2023]

Cost breakdown: solo hiking hadrian’s wall [2023], self-guided: backpack slovenia via the alpe-adria trail, free download | the kerry way: self-guided, free download | self-guided rim to rim in the grand canyon, best long distance hikes for your zodiac sign, how to use an esim for easier international cell coverage, subscribe to newsletter.

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My dream is to write travel and hiking content full-time. All of my guides and itineraries are free and my travels are self-funded. If you enjoy my site and would like to support, you can donate any amount to my Ko-fi page. Thank you!!

What a fantastic resource for planning! I’m done booking my trip and only found this now that I’m looking at adding another person to our trip. This is great for alternatives I would not have thought of. Thanks!

Awesome, thanks Karen! I’m so glad it was helpful, I hoped it would come in handy for people! I found that physical guidebooks do their best to list possible accommodations, but they become out of date so fast. Online I’ll see a roundup of recommendations for campers, or a separate day-by-day trail report that’s got a few popular hotel suggestions, but I rarely see a more comprehensive list comparing all the budget options side by side.

I hope you guys have an incredible trek!

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beginner ski area in chamonix

© Chamonix OT

Back of Le Tour, Buet valley

© Helen McGrory/SeeChamonix.com

beginner ski area in chamonix

Beginner Areas in Le Tour

Large beginner areas and gentle rolling pistes in Le Tour

Le Tour village and ski area can be found at the far end of the Chamonix valley and is accessible by ski bus or by car. You can also take the train to Vallorcine from where you can get on the Vallorcine gondola, which links up to Le Tour ski area, but as a complete beginner we wouldn't recommend this route.

Le Tour provides plenty of variation for beginners of all levels, whether it be starting off at the nursery ski area at the bottom of the slopes ( La Vormaine ) or trying something a little more challenging higher up the mountain in the main ski area.

beginner ski area in chamonix

Best beginner areas

La Vormaine La Vormaine (1,462m) is the largest nursery ski area in Chamonix, served by four drag lifts of varying length and a magic carpet lift. There are two green pistes and one blue piste here, as well a small snowpark and freestyle area. The nursery area is very wide and flat, allowing plenty of space to make progress and build confidence. You’ll find this area located just to the right of the main gondola and bus stop, to the side of the main home run back into the village.

Le Tour Higher up the mountain, Le Tour ski area has 11 more blue pistes (the highest concentration of blue pistes in the Chamonix valley) and the terrain is mostly gentle and not too steep, making it very popular with beginner skiers and snowboarders looking to progress. The majority of the blue pistes are accessed by four drag lifts (good for skiers but not so easy for beginner snowboarders) and two chair lifts. At the end of the day it’s easy to take the Charamillon gondola down the mountain, to avoid having to do the red home run piste back to the bus stop and car park.

Vallorcine In Le Buet, near Vallorcine village, there is a small nursery area called La Poya which is perfect from complete beginners and children. This area has a gently sloping ski area with two small drag lifts and a rope tow to enable beginner skiers and snowboarders to get to grips with the basics. There's also a children's play zone and a small café on site.

beginner ski area in chamonix

Beginner ski lessons

If you're learning to ski for the first time, Chamonix has plenty of choice of ski schools who teach children's ski lessons and adult's ski lessons . Children's lessons are determined by their age and ability, whilst adult lessons are determined by ability and interests.

Off Piste above Charamillon Restaurant Le Tour

Beginner ski passes

If you're joining a ski school as a complete beginner, you will probably start off in the nursery areas where you can buy a beginner ski pass for a minimum of four hours or one day at a time. There are different prices for each of Chamonix's beginner ski areas which you can find via the link below.

If you're a skier looking to progress after having already learnt the basics, you can buy a ski pass for the mid to high mountain ski areas from as little as four hours. You should consider buying a 'Chamonix Le Pass' ski pass rather than the 'Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass.' The Chamonix Le Pass pass is valid for Brévent-Flégère, Grands Montets (but not the summit lift), Le Tour-Vallorcine, Vormaine, Chosalets, Savoy and Planards.

Intersport - La Croisette Ski Hire, Les Menuires shop interior

Beginner ski hire

Pre-booking your ski hire in advance allows the hire shop to prepare for your arrival and smooths the process. A key thing you should consider when booking your equipment is how close your accommodation is to the ski hire shop, or to the foot of the pistes for when lessons have finished. Even if there are several equipment options to choose from, we recommend you go for the most basic. Beginner skis are short, flexible skis that are easy to turn or, if you're snowboarding, you'll have a shorter stiffer snowboard that's easier to control and generally cheaper too. You won't need to know about the technical aspects of any of the equipment as ski hire shops will advise you to get the best model for your ability and size once you've booked.

What should I wear when skiing or snowboarding?

Buying all the gear before you go can be daunting if you’ve never set foot in a ski resort before. The key items to bring with you, along with the obvious ski jacket, ski trousers and sunglasses, are as follows:

  • Layers - thermal tops and leggings, fleeces, hoodies, hats and a good pair of ski gloves and a helmet. Weather on the mountain can change pretty quickly, and you are much better off wearing layers of thinner items as opposed to a big, bulky jumper.
  • Socks - a variety of socks ranging in thickness, it may sound weird but in our experience hire boots can be quite painful with the wrong socks.
  • Sun cream - even when it’s cloudy the sun here can (and will) still get you, and don't forget the underneath of your chin as the sun reflects off the snow too. Don't forget a lip salve with an SPF.
  • Piste map - make sure to always have one in your pocket while you're out on the mountain. You can pick up paper copies from the lift pass or tourist office once you've arrived in resort.

More inspiration...

Take a look at this year's Ski Pass Prices or, if you're not sure which pass to buy, read Ski Pass Options for more information. Find your way around with Piste Maps for Chamonix .

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camping le tour chamonix

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Appart'hôtel le génépy, choose dates to view prices, photo gallery for appart'hôtel le génépy.

Comfort Apartment, 2 Bedrooms, Mountain View | Private kitchen

Overview of Appart'Hôtel le Génépy

Exceptional, popular amenities.

  • Pet-friendly
  • Airport transfer
  • Non-smoking
  • Ski facilities

Main amenities

  • Housekeeping once per stay
  • Ski storage
  • Airport shuttle
  • Multilingual staff
  • Concierge services
  • Luggage storage

Feel at home

  • Free cribs/infant beds
  • Kitchenette
  • Espresso maker

Your area essentials

Map

  • Popular Location Bistrot des Sports 1 min walk
  • Popular Location Arctic Juice & Café Chamonix 1 min walk
  • Popular Location Centre Commercial Alpina 1 min walk
  • Popular Location Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Station 5 min walk

Room options

View all photos for standard apartment, 1 bedroom.

Standard Apartment, 1 Bedroom

  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Studio

  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Premium Apartment, 3 Bedrooms, Terrace, Mountain View

Premium Apartment, 3 Bedrooms, Terrace, Mountain View

  • Mountain view
  • 2 Queen Beds, 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Comfort Apartment, 2 Bedrooms, Mountain View

Comfort Apartment, 2 Bedrooms, Mountain View

  • 1 Queen Bed, 2 Twin Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Family Duplex, 2 Bedrooms, City View

Family Duplex, 2 Bedrooms, City View

  • 1 Queen Bed, 2 Twin Bunk Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Superior Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Mountain View

Superior Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Mountain View

  • 1 Queen Bed, 1 Twin Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Similar properties

Exterior

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Front of property

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Reception

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About the area, what's nearby.

  • Centre Commercial Alpina - 1 min walk
  • Chamonix Church - 3 min walk
  • Montenvers Tram - 7 min walk
  • Chamonix - Planpraz Ski Lift - 9 min walk
  • Aiguille du Midi Cable Car - 12 min walk

Getting around

  • Geneva International Airport (GVA) - 72 min drive
  • Sion (SIR) - 75 min drive
  • Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Station - 5 min walk
  • Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (XCF-Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Train Station) - 6 min walk
  • Chamonix Anguille du Midi Station - 8 min walk
  • Airport shuttle (surcharge)

Restaurants

  • Joséphine - 3 min walk
  • La Potinière - 2 min walk
  • Café Valentino - 2 min walk
  • L'Atelier Café - 3 min walk
  • Côté Macarons - 1 min walk

About this property

At a glance.

  • Arranged over 3 floors

Arriving/Leaving

  • Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
  • Contactless check-in available
  • Late check-in subject to availability
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Check-out time is 10 AM
  • Contactless check-out available

Restrictions related to your trip

  • Check COVID-19 restrictions

Special check-in instructions

  • There is no front desk at this property
  • The check-in location differs from the property location; to check in, go to Hôtel Le Faucigny 118 Place de l'Eglise
  • Guests will receive an email 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions; your host will greet you
  • If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Required at check-in

  • Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
  • Government-issued photo ID may be required
  • Minimum check-in age is 18
  • Pets allowed (dogs and cats only)*
  • Service animals welcome
  • Free WiFi in public areas
  • Free WiFi in rooms
  • No onsite parking
  • Airport shuttle*

Other information

  • Smoke-free property

Property amenities

  • Ski lessons nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby
  • Built in 1903

Accessibility

  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • 12 stairs to reach property
  • Tile flooring in room
  • Hardwood flooring in room

Room amenities

Be entertained.

  • Flat-screen television
  • Cable TV channels

Home comfort

  • Portable fan
  • Electric kettle
  • Free crib/infant bed
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Free toiletries
  • Toilet paper

Stay connected

Food and drink.

  • Refrigerator
  • Cookware, dishes, and utensils
  • Housekeeping (once per stay)

Fees & policies

Mandatory fees.

  • A tax is imposed by the city: EUR 1.60 per person, per night. This tax does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Pets are allowed for an extra charge of EUR 10 per pet, per night

Also known as

Frequently asked questions.

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative. More information Opens in a new window

10/10 Exceptional

8/10 very good, verified traveller, situated in the heart of chamonix, vacay at genepy, antonio noel, most popular destinations.

IMAGES

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  5. Zdjęcia: Camping., Chamonix, W drogę!, FRANCJA

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VIDEO

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  1. Chamonix In France

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  2. Chamonix Sightseeing

    Full Refund Available up to 24 Hours Before Your Tour Date. Viator, A TripAdvisor Company. Quick & Easy Purchase Process. Pick from Over 345,000 Things to Do! Book & Save on Viator

  3. Pierre Semard campsite, Le Tour

    One star campsite located in the Planet Montroc area on the way towards Le Tour. A guest card is issued on arrival, to make you enjoy free transport (buses and trains) of the Chamonix valley. You will also benefit reductions that we obtained from our partners. At your disposal in the chalet: - The bar and the evening entertainment and pre-parties.

  4. Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Guide: Everything You Need to Know

    Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Spots Chamonix Campgrounds Camping Les Arroles. Price: 4.40 for tent, 7.10 per adult Amenities: Toilets, free showers, charging station, picnic tables, dishwashing stations. ... Camping Le Pontet. Distance: Kilometer 18 Price: 4.40 for tent, 5.50 per adult

  5. Le Tour

    A typical Savoyard village nestled at the far end of the Chamonix Valley. Le Tour is a small, quaint little village at the far end of the Chamonix Valley in the Domaine de la Balme area. Take a stroll around the back streets to see some of the classically Alpine-style houses and the church dome. Look up to see the glaciers reaching down towards ...

  6. Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc [2024 Update]

    Tré-le-Champ & Argentiere. You'll again have two options for camping near the Tour du Mont Blanc route on this stage: Auberge La Boerne (Tré-le-Champ) is located very close to the TMB route, while Camping du Glacier requires a 25-minute detour down to the town of Argentiere.

  7. Campings : Chamonix Mont Blanc

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  8. The 13 best campgrounds and campsites in Chamonix

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  9. Camping The Tour Du Mont Blanc Guide + Tips

    1. Escape the Refuge Reservations. Bypassing the intense competition to book huts on the Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the primary benefits of choosing to camp. Securing accommodation in mountain refuges is an increasingly competitive ordeal with slots filling up months in advance, limiting your spontaneity.

  10. The Complete Guide to Camping on the Walker's Haute Route

    From Chamonix to Le Tour you are below the tree line, then you climb up to Col de Balme through a private ski area. As a great alternate, there are campgrounds with amenities in Chamonix and Le Tour. From Col de Balme, the trail enters the canton of Valais in Switzerland, where the rest of the Haute Route hike is located.

  11. Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)

    Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) A flexible, low-cost way to experience one of the world's best hikes ... for this transfer. They all arrive at Chamonix Sud bus station. Camping Les Arolles is only 5 minutes walk from the bus station and is a lovely family run campground. Plenty of space, clean facilities, multiple charging points and WiFi ...

  12. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)

    Camping site info: €11.5 per person or €18.6 per 2 persons. Hot shower is for free! There is a small open air communal area with one picnic table and power socket, but tend to get very overcrowded. Food supply availability: Plenty of supermarkets and other food shops available in Chamonix, such as Super U and SPAR.

  13. Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc trail

    Camping Tour du Mont Blanc. Our TMB hike in August 2020. - Day 1 Les Houches to Les Contamines via Col de Tricot. - Day 2 Camping Le Pontet to Refuge Mottets via Col des Fours. - Day 3 Refuge Mottets to La Visaille and Val Ferret. - Day 4 Rest day in Val Ferret and Courmayer. - Day 5 Val Ferret to La Fouly in a storm.

  14. The Ultimate guide to solo hiking & camping the Tour du Mont Blanc

    About the Tour du Mont Blanc. Widely regarded as one of the best hikes in the entire world, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a moderately challenging 180km circuit that begins in Les Houches, France, a small town just beside the immensely popular Chamonix ski resort.The route circumnavigates beautiful Mont Blanc (4,810m), ascending 11 mountain passes and racking up around 10,000m in elevation gain ...

  15. The Tour du Mont Blanc's 11 stages

    It's worth noting that each 'stage' is LONG averaging between 13-20km per day over challenging terrain, expect between 700m up to 1000m elevation gain each day! Covering the entire Tour du Mont Blanc in 11 days is no walk in the park - expect to be on the trail between 7-9 hours per day.

  16. Campsites : Chamonix Mont Blanc

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  17. Chalet Alpin du Tour Refuge (1453m), Massif du Mont-Blanc

    featured in Mountain huts Updated 1 July 2020. Situated at the foot of the Le Tour hiking area, Chalet Alpin du Tour is a clean, simple and good value refuge. It is run in association with the Club Alpin Francais by a family who are enthusiastic about mountain life and want to share their passion with others. The chalet has 86 beds and includes ...

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  19. Le Tour

    7. Our Rating. Good. Le Tour is located at the north-eastern end of the Chamonix Valley past Argentiere near the border with Switzerland. Being at the end of the valley, it finds itself surrounded by mountains on all sides. There are many trails heading in all directions from Le Tour. On the eastern edge lies the Montagne de Posettes with its ...

  20. Cost Comparison: Tour du Mont Blanc Camping vs. Hotels

    Alternatives: Camping Aiguille Noire €15 (€6 per tent site + €9 per adult; they also have €18 dorms). Camping Monte Bianco La Sorgente €14.50 (€6 per tent site + €8.50 per adult). In order to camp on this day (or stay at Rifugio Monte Bianco), you would have to go off of the classic TMB route and add more mileage.

  21. Family Campsites

    Family campsites are available in 5 parks - see list below for details. For more information or a park map click on the park name. Fee is $34/night per site with the exception of the walk-in sites at Sanborn which are $18/night per site. Fees are subject to change. RV's are allowed with the exception of the walk-in sites at Sanborn.

  22. RV Camping in Santa Clara California: 91 Campgrounds in ...

    Campendium is an Amazon associate site and earns from qualifying purchases. Campgrounds in Santa Clara California: Campendium has 4 reviews of Santa Clara RV parks, state parks and national parks making it your best Santa Clara RV camping resource.

  23. Beginner Areas in Le Tour

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  24. Le Hameau Albert 1er in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Reviews, Deals, and Hotel

    View deals for Le Hameau Albert 1er. Montenvers Tram is minutes away. WiFi and parking are free, and this hotel also features 2 restaurants. All rooms have satellite TV and DVD players.

  25. Appart'Hôtel le Génépy in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Reviews, Deals, and

    View deals for Appart'Hôtel le Génépy, including fully refundable rates with free cancellation. Centre Commercial Alpina is minutes away. WiFi is free, and this hotel also features an airport shuttle and concierge services. All rooms have kitchenettes and flat-screen TVs.