In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationMont Blanc Massif - France / Swiss
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AgeFrom 18 - 80 years
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CO₂-Emissions16.08 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Starting from Orsières , this self-guided, looped mini-hike immerses you in a spectacular, rocky landscape, reserved for experienced hikers. Steady climbs , exposed trails , and high-altitude passes unfold against a stunning alpine backdrop. Each stage reveals a unique atmosphere: from the isolated pastures of La Peule to the more intimate ambiance of the Tsissette cabin.
This intensive trek, in the heart of the Valais region of Switzerland , is distinguished by its isolation , the raw beauty of the landscapes , and the technical difficulty of its route . Ideal for those seeking a physical challenge and off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trip offers total immersion in the high mountains. Significant elevation gains , sustained effort , but also moments of pure bliss facing the peaks of the massif: a concentrated dose of alpine emotions in a compact format.
The highlights
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Challenging alpine loop in the heart of Valais, Switzerland
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High mountain atmosphere between isolated alpine pastures and a mountain hut
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Aerial trails, technical sections and steep elevation changes for experienced hikers
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
Enjoy a fully independent stay: you will have access to an emergency number, reachable only between 9am and 7pm.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 16 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 834 m
- Average daily descent: 840 m
Management
You will receive access to our trekking app, which serves as a complete digital travel guide for the Tour du Mont Blanc. Inside, you will find everything you need for your trek: route descriptions, hiking maps, navigation support, payment information, and all the key details specific to your trip.
Our trekking app also includes built-in navigation assistance. With GPS-based maps and offline access, you can confidently follow the trail and stay on track even without a mobile signal.
Program
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Orsières - Tsisette Hut
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 1220 m
- Negative elevation 110 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Your route begins in Orsières , a typical Valais village nestled at the foot of the mountains. From the very first steps, you'll begin a steady climb southward , following a path that winds through forests and alpine pastures. The ascent is constant yet gradual, offering a peaceful immersion in the alpine world.
After about 6km , you'll reach La Roche de Cornet , a crossroads of trails with an unobstructed view of the Val Ferret . It's a lovely spot to take a break and enjoy the panorama. Further up, the route follows the Crête de Velle ridge along a wide path shared with mountain bikers : please be careful in this section.
As the kilometers pass, the landscapes open up to reveal the surrounding peaks, heralding your imminent arrival. At the end of the day, you reach the Cabane de la Tsisette , a peaceful and welcoming mountain refuge where you will spend the night. It's a chance to rest, enjoy a good meal, and soak up the tranquility before continuing your adventure.
Day 1 -
Tsisette Hut - Peule Alpine Pasture
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h45
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 1070 m
- Negative elevation 1010 m
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Starting from the Cabane de la Tsisette , you begin an ascent towards the Nevé de la Rousse , a high-altitude pass with a stark, mineral atmosphere. Between scree and rocks , the landscape becomes more austere, almost lunar, framed by La Tsavre and the western ridge of Becca Colinta , with a plunging view over the Val Ferret .
You then continue towards the Col de l'Arpalle , a narrower and steeper pass carved into the rock and exposed to the wind. The contrast is striking. After this section, the trail leads to Lac de Fenêtre , nestled high in the mountains. A short , slightly exposed section precedes the arrival at the lake: caution is advised. This alpine lake offers an ideal setting for a peaceful break, with views of the surrounding peaks.
The descent then zigzags through meadows , alongside refreshing streams. As you approach Les Ars , a final left turn leads you to your gîte for the night , nestled in the heart of the Swiss pastures . A perfect place to recharge after this day in the high mountains.
Day 2 -
Peule Alpine Pasture - Orsières
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 21 km
- Positive elevation gain 210 m
- Negative elevation 1400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The day begins with a gentle descent through pastures , with panoramic views of Mont Dolent and Petit Col Ferret as a backdrop. The easy and pleasant path follows the curves of the valley and runs alongside an alpine river , immersing you in a peaceful atmosphere.
You'll traverse landscapes typical of the Valais region: wooden chalets , herds of cows , and flowery meadows punctuate your journey. The route, without any technical difficulties, invites you to fully appreciate the scenery at a leisurely pace.
As you approach La Fouly , the path enters a light forest , crossed by small streams. You follow a well-marked trail which then guides you along quiet country roads and gently sloping forest tracks.
At the end of the route, you'll pass through a few secluded hamlets and along a peaceful countryside until you reach Orsières , thus completing your alpine loop. A gentle end to the hike, ideal for savoring the last moments of your mountain getaway.
Day 3
Note
Please note that the itinerary is subject to change, as we collaborate with a wide range of mountain huts and hotels to ensure your trip runs smoothly. Availability may vary, but our flexibility in working with multiple accommodation partners helps us provide you with the best possible experience.
Accommodation
Located at an altitude of 2000 meters in the heart of the Combe de l'A, the Cabane de Tsissette is accessible to hikers of all levels. It is a popular stop on the Tour du Saint-Bernard and many other hiking routes.
The Gîte Alpage de La Peule is a charming little mountain lodge located on an alpine pasture above La Fouly, directly on the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking trail. Surrounded by vast pastures and open alpine panoramas, it offers simple and comfortable accommodation, generous local cuisine, and a warm and authentic atmosphere.
Access
Go to the starting point
Orsières station (SBB/RegionAlps) : terminus of the Martigny – Orsières line (regional line).
From this station, Place Centrale is usually a few minutes' walk away (Orsières is a small village, easy to get around on foot).
Price details
The price includes
- The digital travel guide
- Accommodation in mountain huts and dormitories
- Half-board accommodation in mountain huts
- Telephone support is available from 9am to 7pm.
The price does not include
- The journey to the place of stay
- Lunches
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Transfers
- The solo supplement (€65)
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Blankets are provided in the mountain refuge and gîte.
Equipment to bring
- A pair of lightweight sandals for the refuge or a pair of sneakers
- A toiletry bag (earplugs recommended)
- A quick-drying bath towel
- For sleeping in mountain huts or guesthouses: a sleeping bag liner
- A small flashlight (with spare batteries)
- Telescopic walking poles (recommended)
- A 1.5L water bottle or hydration pack
- A pocket knife
- An individual plastic container for lunch salads + cutlery and a cup
- Sunscreen cream (skin and lips) + after-sun lotion
- Toilet paper + small garbage bag
- Optional: camera, binoculars…
Warning: the mountains are unpredictable and unpredictable. We've tried to consider all the different weather conditions they can present. This equipment list will help you adapt comfortably to the mountain's moods!
Clothing to bring
- A cap or a hat
- A pair of sunglasses
- A hat or a headband
- T-shirt (carline type, quick-drying material)
- A warm shirt or a thin fleece
- A warm jacket (fleece type)
- A windproof jacket (like a K-Way or Gore-Tex)
- A closed rain cape with sleeves, without snaps, made of polyamide
- Lightweight canvas trousers
- Windproof trousers (like Kway or Gore Tex),
- Shorts or capri pants
- Socks (100% wool: warm, absorbs and wicks away moisture, prevents foot overheating; synthetic fibers: very good resistance, absorbs and wicks away moisture, but be careful if 100% synthetic as it can cause foot overheating; cotton: absorbs moisture but doesn't wick it away well)
- Trekking shoes: they're a hiker's best friend! They must have three qualities: sturdiness, good foot and ankle support (high-tops), and waterproofing.
- Choose shoes with non-slip, cleated soles that are relatively rigid. They need to grip the ground well. Vibram soles have a long-standing reputation; choose them if you have the option.
- A pair of long gaiters
- A pair of gloves
- Spare underwear
- A pair of lightweight canvas trousers and a spare pair of shorts
- Spare socks
They traveled with us
