Tour of Mont Blanc via the mountain huts - 7 days

This second day is punctuated by the clanging of Hérens cowbells , an emblematic breed of the Swiss Alps, which you'll encounter at the Giète alpine pasture (1,884 m) . The local cheesemaker, busy around his cauldrons, might explain the secrets of making alpine cheese, an age-old craft. The trail then winds its way up to the Col de Portalo (2,049 m) , where a 360° view unfolds before you: on one side, the Swiss valleys and the Rhône River meandering in the distance; on the other, the still snow-capped French peaks.

The descent to Champex-Lac (1,500 m) is enchanting, with its turquoise lake surrounded by fir trees. A minibus transfer will take you to La Fouly , a typical village in the Swiss Val Ferret, where a final 20-minute climb will lead you to the Gîte de la Léchère . This mountain refuge, run by passionate mountaineers, offers meals made with local produce (vegetable soup from the garden, dried meat, blueberry tart).

An evening around a wood fire, listening to the stories of other hikers, will conclude this emotionally rich day.

The Grand Col Ferret (1,537 m) marks your entry into Italy, offering a spectacular view of the southern slopes of Mont Blanc , less frequented but just as impressive. Mont Dolent , a peak straddling three borders (France, Switzerland, Italy), rises proudly before you. The descent into the Italian Val Ferret is a festival of colors: bluish glaciers (Pré de Bar, Miage), flowery meadows, and stone hamlets.

In Arnouva , a local shuttle awaits to take you to Courmayeur , an alpine town renowned for its Italian atmosphere (artisanal gelato, lively cafes, Baroque architecture). After a well-deserved break, a gradual ascent will lead you to the Maison Vieille refuge (2,000 m) , perched above the vineyards of the Aosta Valley. Dinner, inspired by Piedmontese cuisine (polenta, porcini risotto, or gnocchi), will be accompanied by local wines.

A night under the stars, lulled by the silence of the mountains, will prepare you for what's to come.

This stage, the longest of the route, begins with a descent towards Lake Combal , an emerald mirror of water surrounded by rocks. The well-marked but demanding path then leads you to the Elisabetta refuge , the starting point for the ascent of the Col de la Seigne (2,516 m) , the Franco-Italian border.

Here, the landscape changes dramatically: glaciers give way to the alpine pastures of the Beaufortain , where Tarine cows , those tawny breed with gentle eyes, graze alongside goats with tinkling bells. The descent towards Les Chapieux is a feast for the senses, with the scent of freshly cut hay, crystal-clear streams, and centuries-old wooden chalets.

The Chapieux refuge, simple yet welcoming, offers comforting meals (gratin dauphinois, onion soup) after this epic day. A hot shower (if available) and a sunset over the mist-shrouded peaks will complete this unforgettable stage.

An early start is necessary to tackle the climb to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2,479 m) , a narrow, rocky pass where the wind can gust. The trail, marked by cairns, crosses scree slopes before reaching the Col du Bonhomme , famous for its natural terrace offering a breathtaking view over the Tarentaise and Vanoise valleys.

A picnic break (bread, cured meats, cheese) is ideal here, before starting the descent towards the Refuge des Prés . The latter, nestled in a glacial cirque, is a haven of peace where mountain specialties are served (morel mushroom tart, apple tart).

The evening can be enlivened by discussions with the wardens, often guides or mountaineers, who share their anecdotes about the surrounding peaks.

The day begins with a technical descent towards the Chalet de Nant Borrant , located near the remains of a Roman road , a testament to the passage of legions 2,000 years ago. The trail then climbs back up towards the Tré la Tête refuge , perched above the Dorine gorges.

The trek to the Truc refuge is enchanting: lunar landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and discreet wildlife (golden eagles, ibex). The refuge, isolated and authentic, is heated by wood and lit by candlelight.

The evening meal, often a fondue or a raclette, is an opportunity to share stories with other hikers, before a night under the slate roofs, lulled by the sound of the wind in the larches.

Last stage of this journey, but not the least! After an energy-boosting breakfast (muesli, homemade jam, strong coffee), you will tackle the ascent of the Col du Tricot , renowned for its steep slopes and views of the Bionnassay glacier .

The descent to Bellevue is pure bliss, with shaded paths and views over the Chamonix valley. The Grands Bois , a coniferous forest, will finally lead you to Les Houches , a typical village where you can celebrate your achievement with a local beer or a glass of Savoy white wine.

A bus transfer will take you back to Chamonix, where a farewell dinner (Savoyard fondue, blueberry dessert) will conclude this human and sporting adventure, rich in landscapes, encounters, and pushing your limits.