GUIDE to CAMPING on the TOUR DU MONT BLANC Welcome

TMBtent.com GUIDE TO CAMPING ON THE TOUR DU MONT BLANC Welcome

Table of Contents Your adventure starts now! 1. Sfa 2. Asdf Welcome to the TMBtent Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc! The TMB is an unforgettable trek however you approach it, but we feel that camping along the route is the most 3. Asdf rewarding way to experience it. Carrying your own tent will not only afford you greater 4. Asdf flexibility, but it will also give you the chance to build community with fellow campers and sleep 5. Asdf in some of the most beautiful places on earth. 6. Asdf This guide will give you the tools to plan your perfect TMB adventure. In addition to in-depth 7. asdf camping information for every stage of the TMB, we’ve also included sections on logistics, packing, and a sample itinerary. You can print the entire guide, or individual topics as needed. You can also download it to your mobile phone for easy access on the trail. About the course:

In preparation for the upcoming hiking season, we completely revamped this guide to reflect the insights, experience, and updates that we’ve gained from the past several years of running our website. We feel confident that our guide has the most accurate and up-to-date information available and that it will be an invaluable resource for your trek.

We are so excited that you’ve decided to hike the TMB and we know that with the right preparation you will have an incredible trip. Thank you for letting us be part of the process.

Sincerely, Who we are/About TMBtent:

As passionate hikers and travelers, we've made it our goal to empower fellow trekkers with all of the information they need to have their best TMB experience.

We scour the guidebooks, connect with accommodation providers, and compile tips from other hikers in order to give you the most current, straightforward, and accessible information possible. Happy trails! Emily & Ian Disclaimer:

Everything presented here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, distributed on an as is basis with no warranties. TMBtent, LLC makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information in this guide and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.

Contents

Read it cover to cover or jump around to the parts that suit you. This guide is organized into six easy-to-navigate sections:

About the TMB

A quick overview of the hike, key stats, and what to expect along the route. 1 Table of Contents 1. Sfa Stage-by-Stage Camping Guide 2. Asdf 3. Asdf An in-depth description of all of your camping options on every stage of the 2 TMB. We’ve included detailed maps for each stage. 4. Asdf 5. Asdf Logistics 6. Asdf

Key information about getting to and from the TMB, as well as insights on 7. asdf 3 luggage storage and rest days. About the course: Packing for the TMB 4 Our tried-and-true gear list for camping on the TMB. The printable format makes packing a breeze!

Sample Itinerary 5 This itinerary shows our recommended stopping points for campers completing the classic 11-day counterclockwise circuit.

Want more? Who we are/About TMBtent: 6 Learn more about our comprehensive planning guide which will prepare you for your best possible trip, while also saving you time and money! Section 1 About the TMB

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About the course:

Who we are/About TMBtent: Length: 170 Km (106 miles) Total ascent/descent: 10,000 meters (32,808 feet) About the TMB Duration: 11 days Trail conditions:: Mostly singletrack on dirt trails. Some steep, loose, and rocky sections. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170-km loop trail that encircles the Mont Blanc Massif. Starting and Small segments on dirt roads and tracks. ending in France, it also takes walkers through Italy and Switzerland as it winds its way over Terrain: Rugged mountain passes, pastoral rugged mountain passes and through charming valleys. valleys, pine forests, alpine meadows 170 Is it for you? kilometers long What’s it like? : Passing through the many charming villagesLes along Houches the route has isseveral a major bars, restaurants, 10,000 highlight of the TMB.ATM’s, If youand want a grocery a hike store. in which There is a bus that meters of elevation gain you can absorb Alpineruns frequentlyculture and to pick and up from excellent Chamonix, which wine and cheese athas frequent several intervals,outdoor retailers you’ll love and shops that will the TMB. However,provide if you youwant with to feel anything far from you may have 11 civilization and aloneforgotten in nature, to pack. this isn’t your best days to complete bet. How hard is it? If you are reasonably fit and have some backpacking experience, you should be What’s it like? well-suited to the physical challenge of the TMB. It Passing through the many picturesque villages along the route is a major highlight of the TMB. If you is a tough trek that involves long, steep ascents want a hike in which you can absorb Alpine culture and pick up excellent wine and cheese at frequent and descents on nearly every stage, but it isn’t too intervals, you’ll love the TMB. However, if you want to feel far from civilization and alone in nature, this technically demanding. Make sure you have healthy isn’t your best bet. knees, as the downhill sections can take their toll! Be sure to check out our article on how to train for How hard is it? the hike. If you are reasonably fit and have some backpacking experience, you should be well-suited to the physical challenges of the TMB. It is a tough trek that involves long, steep ascents and descents on What’s the accommodation like? Hikers can opt nearly every stage, but it isn’t too technically demanding. Campers will need to carry larger packs which for high quality hotels and use luggage transfer will increase the challenge of the trek. services in order to maximize comfort. Alternatively, they can stay in budget-friendly dorms or they can carry their own tent. The beauty What can I expect when camping? of the TMB is that is is customizable to many Camping facilities along the TMB can vary widely from place-to-place. They range from basic wild budgets, styles, and ability levels. camping areas with simple compostable toilets to deluxe campgrounds with hot showers and wifi. In general, most established campgrounds along the route will provide showers, potable water, bathroom facilities, and a place to charge your electronics. Section 2 Stage-by-Stage Camping Guide

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About the course:

Who we are/About TMBtent: Camping Basics

RESERVATIONS TMB hikers do not need to make advance bookings for any of the campgrounds The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through mentioned in this guide. Many of the campgrounds can get quite crowded, so we mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and accomodation recommend arriving before 4:00pm to ensure you get a good pitch. However, the campgrounds rarely, if ever, turn away TMB trekkers, even if they are very full. (with the exception of camping), must be booked in advance. There’s a chance you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we On the other hand, it is essential that you make reservations for any refuges you plan to stay at on the TMB. Book as early as possible, as refuges can fill up for peak still wouldn’t recommend it. season months in advance. June: Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail. Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible WILD CAMPING and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny days, and less crowded trails. Wild camping along the TMB is complicated and often illegal. 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 July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of France at high altitudes between sunset and sunrise, it may be permitted above significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful 2,500 meters (from dusk until dawn) in Italy, and it is strictly forbidden in Switzerland. This website has helpful information on the specific legal codes for warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike. each country. August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails The good news is that there are many official campsites that are easily accessible along the TMB. Furthermore, there are quite a few opportunities to pitch your tent and warm, sunny weather. in free sanctioned wild and semi-wild camping 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. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season. FOOD AND DRINK

Due to the fact that the trail passes through many towns and villages, you will be able to resupply every few days. In the stage-by-stage guide, we’ve noted the availability of shops and restaurants at every stop along the route.

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.

Potable water is available at all of the campgrounds and refuges along the route. Stage Zero: Les Houches or Chamonix

The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and accomodation (with the exception of camping), must be booked in advance. There’s a chance you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we still wouldn’t recommend it.

June: Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail. Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny days, and less crowded trails.

July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful CAMPING OPTIONS OVERVIEW warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike.

Option 1: Camping Bellevue The Tour du Mont Blanc ofﬁcially begins in the town of August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails Les Houches, which is about 15 minutes by bus from This option allows you to stay near the Chamonix. The bus is easy to use and runs frequently, and warm, sunny weather. start of the TMB in the town Les Houches. You can walk directly to the so you can stay in either Chamonix or Les Houches the trailhead to begin your hike in the night before starting your trek. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful morning. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be Campers will be spoiled with choices when it comes to closed for the season. However, Les Houches is a smaller town campgrounds in the area. We’ve described the best with fewer services. option in each town.

Option 2: Les Arolles If you don’t mind riding the bus to get to shops and Located in Chamonix, this option gives restaurants, there are several campgrounds in Les you easy proximity to a wider range of Bossons. Les Bossons is located along the bus route services in this iconic mountain town. between Chamonix and Les Houches.

You’ll need to catch the local bus to Les For those who prefer to spend this night in a hotel, Houches in the morning to start the there are a plethora of accommodation options in both TMB. Les Houches and Chamonix to suit a variety of budgets.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Zero: Camping Bellevue

Camping is available at the Bellevue Campsite, which is Services: August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails located at the base of the cable car of the same name. This is your only camping option in Les Houches. ● Bathroom facilities and warm, sunny weather. ● Electronics charging ● Potable water The campground’s facilities were fully remodeled in September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful 2019. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be Nearby: closed for the season. You will receive a guest card (included in your camping tariff) which gives you access to free transit throughout ● Bars/restaurants the valley. This means that you can easily get to and ● Grocery store from Chamonix if you want to visit a wider range of ● Outdoor store shops, restaurants, and other services. ● Bus to/from Chamonix

Contact Info:

Camping Bellevue Website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Zero: Camping Les Arolles

There are several campgrounds in the Chamonix Valley, Services: August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails but this is the only camping option within the actual town of Chamonix. ● Bathroom facilities and warm, sunny weather. ● Electronics charging ● Potable water If you prefer the convenience of being able to walk from ● Hot showers September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful your tent to shops, restaurants, and other amenities, ● WiFi time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be this is your best bet. ● Washing area closed for the season. Camping Les Arolles is very nice, but it can get a bit Nearby: crowded in peak season. Try to get there early in the afternoon to snag a good pitch. ● Bars/restaurants ● Grocery store ● Outdoor store You will receive a guest card (included in your camping ● Local/regional transit connections tariff) which gives you access to free transit throughout ● Post ofﬁce the valley. This means that you can use your card to ride ● Laundry facilities the bus free of charge to Les Houches (15-20 minutes) ● Pharmacy to begin your hike the following morning. Contact Info:

Camping Les Arolles Website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage One: Les Houches to Les Contamines

Option 1: Camping Le Pontet At the end of stage 1, most campers will prefer to pitch August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails their tents at Camping Le Pontet, located just past the This is the typical stopping at the end of town of Les Contamines. This is the traditional stopping and warm, sunny weather. stage 1. Camping Le Pontet is the best option for those who are following the point for this stage. It gives you better access to traditional 11-day itinerary. services and amenities, both at the campground and in September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful This campground gives you access to a the nearby town. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be wider range of services than the other closed for the season. options. However, if you’d like to cover even more ground on stage 1 and you’d prefer a site that has the feel of wild Option 2: Nant Borrant camping, there is also the option of continuing on to This wild camping area is 2.3 miles past Nant Borrant or even further to Refuge de la Balme. Camping Le Pontet. It offers a basic option for those who want to hike a bit Think carefully before choosing options 2 or 3, as you’ll further on stage 1. have already hiked over 10 challenging miles just to get to the town of Les Contamines and you don’t want to Option 3: Refuge de la Balme overexert yourself on your ﬁrst day. Hiking further to either of these camping areas could theoretically help Located 3.4 miles past Camping Le you complete the entire TMB in less time, but it’s not Pontet, this is another basic and free option. Campers can access the facilities the most strategic place to double up on stages. at the refuge.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage One: Camping Le Pontet

This campground is located about 40 minutes past the Services: August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails town of Les Contamines. You can continue on the TMB trail to reach Camping Le Pontet, or when the trail forks ● Bathroom facilities and warm, sunny weather. ● Electronics charging you can veer left to climb brieﬂy uphill to reach the ● Potable water town. ● Warm showers September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful ● Cafe/bar time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be If you took the left fork through the village, at the far ● Covered cooking area closed for the season. edge of town you’ll descend back down to the TMB and walk onward to the campground. Nearby:

You have to walk a bit further to reach the campground, ● Bars/restaurants Shops but it is located directly along the TMB, giving you a ● ● ATM head start the next morning!

Contact Info:

Camping Le Pontet website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage One: Nant Borrant

To reach this camping area, keep hiking about two miles Services: August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails past Camping le Pontet on the main TMB route. ● Compostable toilet and warm, sunny weather. ● Potable water from nearby If you continue walking a short way past the Nant Refuge Nant Borrant Borrant Refuge, you’ll see some legal wild camping September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful spots on the left hand side of the trail. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season. The camping area is marked by a sign reading “bivouac.” You can spend the night here free of charge. Nearby:

● Refuge Nant Borrant

Contact Info:

Refuge Nant Borrant website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage One: Refuge de la Balme

Refuge de la Balme is located an additional 1.2 miles Services (at refuge): August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails past the Nant Borrant camping area. Hikers are welcome to camp for free near the refuge. ● Toilets and warm, sunny weather. ● Potable water ● Sinks We’ve heard from our fellow hikers that this is an ● Meals September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful especially scenic place to camp. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season. Check in with the refuge staff before pitching your tent. Nearby:

● Refuge de la Balme

Contact Info:

Refuge de la Balme website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Two: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Option 1: Les Chapieux The traditional stopping point at the end of stage 2 is August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails the lovely little hamlet of Les Chapieux, where free This option offers the rare combination camping is available in the ﬁeld next to the tourist and warm, sunny weather. of free camping alongside easy access to shops and restaurants. ofﬁce. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful However, it is possible to camp outside of the Refuge de time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be la Croix du Bonhomme if you want to stop earlier in the closed for the season. day.

Option 2: Refuge de la Croix du One advantage of stopping in Les Chapieux is that Bonhomme you’ll have the option to use the local bus the next Another free option, this is a scenic morning to cut out a very long section of road walking. camping spot. However, the location isn’t a practical stopping point for most hikers.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Two: Les Chapieux

When you descend into tiny and charming Les Services (in tourist office): August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails Chapieux, you can’t miss the large grassy field on the edge of town in which you can pitch your tent for free. ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. ● Potable water The folks in the tourist office can provide you with September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful tickets and information for the bus that travels to time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be Refuge Des Mottets. closed for the season. This bus allows you to avoid the one of the TMB’s Nearby: longest sections of road walking (about 2 hours’ worth) on the next stage. ● Small shop ● Auberge de la Nova serves meals and drinks (order dinner in Make sure to wait at the bus stop (right in front of the advance) tourist office) at least 30 minutes early or buy your ticket in advance since the bus does sell out quickly.

Contact Info:

Les Chapieux Tourist Ofﬁce website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Two: Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme

This refuge is located just past the top of Col du Services (in refuge): August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails Bonhomme, meaning that in good weather this could be a glorious place to pitch your tent with sweeping views ● Toilets and warm, sunny weather. ● Showers of the surrounding area. ● Potable water ● Electronics charging September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Hikers are allowed to set up camp for free just outside ● Meals for purchase time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be the refuge. However, in cold/windy/rainy/stormy closed for the season. conditions, this would be a pretty miserable place to spend the night. Nearby:

In any case, the particular location of this campsite (just ● Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme before your descent into Les Chapieux at the end of stage two) means it’s not a very practical stopping point for most TMB hikers. Staying here would set you up for a very long day on stage 3.

Contact Info:

Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme website

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Three: Les Chapieux to Rifugio Elisabetta

Option 1: Rifugio Elisabetta The traditional stage 3 of the TMB poses some August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails problems for campers. You cannot camp at Rifugio This is a convenient and scenic option for Elisabetta and there are no towns or campgrounds near and warm, sunny weather. those who choose not to camp on this stage. the rifugio that offer somewhere for you to pitch your tent. Furthermore, you cannot wild camp anywhere September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful near Rifugio Elisabetta. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be Option 2: Val Veny campgrounds closed for the season. The easiest option is to stay in the rifugio instead of This option requires hiking an extra 4-5 camping along this stage. If that’s your plan, we strongly miles and deviating from the main TMB recommend that you make reservations in advance, as trail. All three of the campgrounds in the area (Camping Hobo, Camping Aiguille it ﬁlls up quickly. Noire, & Camping La Sorgente) provide a wide range of amenities. For those who are determined to camp, the Val Veny campgrounds are the best option. Option 3: Courmayeur

Those who are up for a very long day can Alternatively, it is possible to combine stages 3 and 4 to combine stages 3 and 4 to reach reach Courmayeur in one day. There is still no camping Courmayeur and its wider range of in Courmayeur, but there are more accommodation services. options available.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Three: Rifugio Elisabetta

This is a stunningly beautiful place to spend the night, Services: August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails and the rifugio serves up meals and refreshments in a cozy, memorable setting. ● Toilets and warm, sunny weather. ● Showers ● Meals for purchase As with all the refuges on the TMB, making advance ● Potable water September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful reservations is strongly recommended if you are time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be planning to stay at Rifugio Elisabetta. closed for the season. Even though all of the refuges require the use of a sleep Nearby: sheet, you can rent one at Rifugio Elisabetta for a small fee. This is helpful for campers who don’t want to carry ● N/A a sleep sheet throughout the trek, only to use it on the rare occasions in which they stay in refuges.

If you decide to stop here, be aware that there is nothing else in the area in the way of food or supplies. Contact Info: The next place with food, water, and toilets is Rifugio Maison Vielle, which is about three hours away. [email protected]

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Three: Val Veny Campgrounds

To reach these campgrounds, continue on the main TMB trail 2 Services: miles past Rifugio Elisabetta until you reach a bridge and a trail August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails junction at the far end of Lac Combal. From there, take the ● Toilets signposted route towards La Visaille. Once you get to La Visaille and warm, sunny weather. ● Hot showers (2 miles past the junction at Lac Combal), you can either catch ● Potable water the local bus or walk on the road to one of the three ● Washing area September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful campgrounds in Val Veny. The ﬁrst of these campgrounds is a ● Restaurants little over a mile past La Visaille. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be ● Small shop ● ATM (Aiguille Noire) closed for the season. On the following day, you can either continue along the road to ● WiFi (La Sorgente & Hobo) reach Courmayeur, following the bad weather TMB alternate route or hike up to rejoin the main route. While the alternate Nearby: route will get you there much faster, you’ll miss out on a really beautiful section of the TMB. We recommend that you rejoin the ● La Visaille-Courmayeur bus main route in order to enjoy this stage to the fullest.

To rejoin you have two options. If you want to hike the entirety of Contact Info: stage 4, you can retrace your steps from the previous day back to the junction at Lac Combal (you can also ride the bus back to La Camping Aiguille Noire website Visaille and walk from there). A shorter option would be to take a link trail that starts in Val Veny and leads directly up to meet the Camping Hobo website TMB. You can access this trail from behind Camping Aiguille Noire, just under the Zerotta ski lift. Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente website Stage Three: Courmayeur

It is possible to hike from Les Chapieux all the way to Services: Courmayeur in one day, but this is a very long and challenging August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails option. While this gets you out of having to stay at Rifugio See Stage 4 for information on and warm, sunny weather. Elisabetta, it doesn’t solve all of your camping problems, as accommodation options in Courmayeur. there’s nowhere to pitch a tent in Courmayeur either. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Courmayeur, however, does provide more services and a wider time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be range of accommodation offerings than Elisabetta. If you want to Nearby (Courmayeur): double up on stages 3 and 4, we recommend that you take the closed for the season. following shortcuts to make this big day a bit easier: ● Bars/restaurants ● Grocery stores 1. Take the bus from Les Chapieux to Refuge des Mottets to ● Outdoor stores eliminate about two hours of road walking at the start of ● Laundry services the day. ● Pharmacy ● ATMs 2. Consider riding the cable car or chairlift down to ● Local/regional transit connections Courmayeur. The trail will take you right past both options. The cable car is more direct, but if it’s not running you can ride the chairlift down part of the way and then transfer to a cable car that will take you to Dolonne, just across the river from Courmayeur. This is a good idea if Contact Info: you want to avoid a very steep and seemingly endless descent into Courmayeur. N/A Stage Four: Rifugio Elisabetta to Courmayeur

Option 1: Courmayeur There are no campgrounds within the town of August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails Courmayeur. There is no camping available in and warm, sunny weather. Courmayeur, but this is a great place to splurge on a hotel. Those looking for a bit of luxury can forgo camping on this stage and take advantage of the plentiful hotels September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful and guesthouses in the area. Option 2: Val Ferret campground time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season. Camping Grandes Jorasses is 3.5 miles If you would like to camp on this stage, you will need to from Courmayeur in the town of take the local bus from Courmayeur to either Val Veny Plampincieux. This campground is easily or Val Ferret. Both valleys offer good camping options accessed by bus and also has link route and can be reached by bus within 15-20 minutes from options to rejoin the TMB. Courmayeur.

Option 3: Val Veny campgrounds

These campgrounds are easily reached by bus from Courmayeur. All three of the campgrounds (Camping Hobo, Camping Aiguille Noire, & Camping La Sorgente) provide a wide range of amenities.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Four: Courmayeur

A stay in Courmayeur is a highlight for many TMB hikers. This Services: legendary Italian mountaineering town boasts beautiful August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails architecture and delicious dining options. All hotels and guesthouses in the area will and warm, sunny weather. provide the following: If you are considering including a rest day in your itinerary, this is a great option. It may seem too early in the trek to stop, but ● Hot showers September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful many hikers ﬁnd that this is when they need it most. ● WiFi time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be ● Linens/towels Here are a few of our favorite places to stay in Courmayeur: closed for the season.

● Hotel Maison La Saxe – Located just up the valley from Nearby (Courmayeur): Courmayeur, this small hotel offers an incredible breakfast spread and beautiful rooms. Book early as they ● Bars/restaurants only have six rooms! ● Grocery stores ● Outdoor stores ● Cresta Et Duc Hotel – Centrally located with free ● Laundry services breakfast. What’s not to love? ● Pharmacy ● ATMs ● Local/regional transit connections

Contact Info:

N/A Stage Four: Val Ferret

Camping Grand Jorasses is a good option for those who would Services: prefer to camp instead of staying in Courmayeur. The August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails campground is located 3.5 miles down the road from ● Bathrooms Courmayeur in the town of Plampincieux (local bus #924 will and warm, sunny weather. ● Sinks take you right there from Courmayeur). ● Showers ● Electronics charging September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Unlike Val Veny (your other camping option on this stage) ● Small shop Camping Grandes Jorasses has the advantage of being located time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be ● Pizzeria/bar closer to the trail on stage 5, making it easier to rejoin the main closed for the season. TMB route. Nearby: Camping Grandes Jorasses is in Val Ferret, directly below the TMB route. To rejoin the TMB on stage 5, you’ll have ● Bus stop to Courmayeur approximately 1.5 miles of uphill hiking on a link trail. The campground staff can give you information about accessing the link trail. Contact Info:

Hikers who choose to camp on stage 5 may end up spending two Camping Grandes Jorasses website nights at this campground. Stage Four: Val Veny Campgrounds

If you didn’t camp in Val Veny on the previous stage (or even if Services: you did and you don’t mind a repeat), you can ride the local bus August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails from Courmayeur to reach the campgrounds in Val Veny. ● Toilets and warm, sunny weather. ● Hot showers When you’re ready to begin your hike the following day, simply ● Potable water take the bus back to Courmayeur and rejoin the trail. ● Washing area September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful ● Restaurants We recommend that campers stay in Val Ferret (option 2) on this time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be ● Small shop stage because it offers easier access to rejoin the main TMB trail ● ATM (Aiguille Noire) closed for the season. on stage 5. However, the campgrounds in Val Veny have good ● WiFi (La Sorgente & Hobo) facilities and a wide range of services, making them an appealing option for many hikers. Nearby:

● La Visaille-Courmayeur bus

Contact Info:

Camping Aiguille Noire website

Camping Hobo website

Camping Mont Blanc La Sorgente website Stage Five: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Option 1: Rifugio Bonatti Unfortunately, there are no sanctioned camping areas August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails between Courmayeur and La Fouly. This creates a This is the most convenient option for challenge for campers since the trail gets pretty far and warm, sunny weather. those who don’t mind spending a night in a rifugio. This is one of the most from civilization along this stage and bus services to atmospheric refuges along the TMB. alternate campgrounds are limited. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be Option 2: Camping Grandes Jorasses Trekkers have the option of either spending the night at closed for the season. Rifugio Bonatti or staying at Camping Grandes Jorasses Located in Val Ferret, this is the closest in Val Ferret. and most convenient camping option on this stage. Hikers can access the campground via a link trail along stage 5. The fastest way to get to Camping Grandes Jorasses at the end of stage 5 is via a link trail from the main TMB that you’ll see before reaching Rifugio Bonatti. This trail ends a few hundred meters from the campground.

For those who want to hike all the way to Rifugio Bonatti, there is another (less direct) link trail from the rifugio that will take you down to the valley. When you get down to Val Ferret, you’ll need to catch a bus to Camping Grandes Jorasses.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Five: Rifugio Bonatti

The good news is that if you have to stay in a hut on your trek, Services: Bonatti is the one to choose! This beautiful refuge boasts a August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails remote and spectacular setting. It offers jaw-dropping views of ● Toilets Mont Blanc and the Grandes Jorasses, as well as friendly, and warm, sunny weather. ● Hot showers efﬁcient service. ● Potable water ● Electronics charging September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful While we obviously prefer camping, staying in a mountain hut is ● Meals for purchase a quintessential TMB experience. It’s a great way to meet fellow time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be hikers and soak in the communal spirit of thru-hiking. closed for the season. Nearby: As with all refuges along the TMB, it is essential to reserve your bed in advance at Rifugio Bonatti. Nothing. Rifugio Bonatti is a few hours’ walk from the nearest town in either direction. Make sure to stock up on provisions in the Courmayeur area before heading out.

Contact Info:

Rifugio Bonatti website Stage Five: Camping Grandes Jorasses

July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful OVERVIEW THE BASICS warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike. Camping Grandes Jorasses is the closest and most convenient camping Services: option on this stage of the TMB. Unfortunately, many of the camping August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails options along stages 3-5 necessitate detouring and often missing out on large sections of the main TMB route. If you want to camp every ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. night, but don’t want to miss out on too much of the classic route, ● Sinks here’s what you could do: ● Showers ● Electronics charging September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Upon completing stage 4, take the bus from Courmayeur to one of the ● Small shop time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be nearby camping options (either in Val Veny or Val Ferret) and then ride ● Pizzeria/bar closed for the season. the bus back to Courmayeur to begin hiking on the morning of stage 5. Nearby: Upon reaching Rifugio Bonatti at the end of stage 5, you’ll see a link trail that leads down to Val Ferret, where you can catch the bus to ● Bus stop to Arp Nouvaz Camping Grandes Jorasses.

The next day (stage 6), take the bus from Camping Grandes Jorasses to the Arp Nouvaz stop, where you’ll be able to connect back to the TMB Contact Info: and hike onwards to La Fouly. By starting at Arp Nouvaz, you’ll cut out a roughly 3-mile (mostly downhill) section of the main TMB route. Camping Grandes Jorasses website

Theoretically, if you didn’t want to miss out on any part of the traditional stage 6 route, you could hike back up to Rifugio Bonatti on the morning of stage 6, then complete the stage as usual to La Fouly. Be warned that if you choose to do this, you’re looking at a very, very challenging day (15.5 miles and 6,000 feet of elevation gain!) Stage Six: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Camping des Glaciers Campers will breathe a huge sigh of relief upon getting August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails to this stage. Finally, there aren’t a million decisions to This large campground has many make and inconvenient workarounds when it comes to and warm, sunny weather. amenities and is conveniently located near the TMB and the town of La Fouly. pitching your tent! September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful With a well-located campground just off the TMB, time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be stage 6 is as easy as can be (at least the camping closed for the season. aspect…the hiking part is another story!)

Camping des Glaciers can be quite busy with camper vans and big groups, but you’ll have your pick from several ﬂat and shady sites and the views are dynamite.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Six: Camping des Glaciers

What Camping des Glaciers may lack in wilderness and Services: solitude, it makes up for in great views and nice August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails amenities. It’s an easy 10-minute walk to the center of ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. La Fouly, where a range of services are available. ● Sinks ● Hot showers ● Electronics charging September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful ● Potable water time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be TIPS: ● Small shop ● WiFi closed for the season. Choose a spot that borders the river to drown out any Nearby: ambient noise from your “neighbors.” ● Bars/restaurants The camp ofﬁce (like many places in the Alps) is closed ● ATM for a lunch break in the middle of the day, but you can ● Grocery store choose a site, set up camp, and use the facilities before registering in the ofﬁce. Contact Info:

Camping des Glaciers website Stage Seven: La Fouly to Champex

Option 1: Camping les Rocailles Camping Les Rocailles is located on the far end of August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails Champex, past the town center. When you reach Most campers will choose to stay at this Champex, you’ll still have another 20 minutes of and warm, sunny weather. campground because of its location along the main TMB route and its easy walking before you reach the campground. The good proximity to the shops and restaurants in news is that you’ll have a head start on the hike the September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Champex. following day. time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season. If you want to continue on even further to get a bigger head start on the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant the following day, camping at Relais d’Arpette will allow you Option 2: Relais d’Arpette to shorten stage 8 by approximately 45 minutes.

This option is only worth considering for those who plan on taking the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant on stage 8, as it is not located along the main TMB route.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Seven: Camping les Rocailles

This lovely little campground offers terraces with Services: relatively ﬂat spots to pitch your tent, but not much August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails shade to be found. The bottom terrace is reserved for ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. camper vans and vehicles; TMB hikers should pitch ● Sinks their tents on the upper terraces. ● Hot showers ● Electronics charging September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful ● Potable water time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be Champex Lac offers several tranquil and beautiful ● Dishwashing/laundry room places along the shore for relaxing after a long day on ● WiFi closed for the season. your feet. ● Laundry drying area ● Microwave & electric kettle Make sure you stock up on provisions before leaving ● Beer, wine, & snacks for purchase Champex, as this is the last real town that the TMB passes directly through until the endpoint in Les Nearby: Houches. ● Bars/restaurants ● ATM ● Grocery store ● Outdoor store

Contact Info:

Camping les Rocailles website Stage Seven: Relais d’Arpette

This alternative only makes sense for hikers who are Services: planning to take the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant on stage August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails 8, as the Relais d’Arpette campground is not located ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. along the main TMB route. ● Sinks ● Hot showers September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful However, if you want to get a head start on the variant ● Electronics charging ● Potable water time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be for stage eight, this is a great option. Plus, as stage 7 is ● WiFi one of the shorter and easier stages of the entire TMB, ● Restaurant closed for the season. you’ll likely have plenty of energy to keep going a bit ● Packed lunches for purchase further to reach Relais d’Arpette.

Nearby: The campground is reached by continuing about 45 minutes gently uphill past the town of Champex. To ﬁnd There are no services nearby once you leave it, simply follow the Fenêtre d’Arpette trail signs. Champex.

Make sure to stock up on provisions before leaving Champex, as this is the last real town that the TMB Contact Info: passes directly through until the endpoint in Les Houches. Relais d’Arpette website Stage Eight: Champex to Col de la Forclaz

Option 1: Hotel de la Forclaz You have two great options for camping on this stage of August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails the TMB. You can camp on the terraced ﬁeld next to This option requires stopping earlier Hotel de la Forclaz or pitch your tent on the edge of the and warm, sunny weather. along the trail at the Hotel on the Col de la Forclaz. The facilities at the hotel are tiny hamlet of Le Peuty. nicer than at Le Peuty, but it is also more September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful expensive. The Hotel de la Forclaz provides showers, meals, and time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be well kept facilities. This is a good option for those who closed for the season. want to stop earlier in the day or access more services.

Le Peuty offers more basic camping but is inexpensive Option 2: Le Peuty and has great views of the Trient Glacier.

Instead of stopping at the hotel, those camping at Le Peuty will continue downhill for approximately 40 minutes to reach the very basic camping area at Le Peuty. This option is less expensive and gives you a head start for the following day.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Eight: Hotel de la Forclaz

Hotel de la Forclaz is the more luxurious option of the Services: two. August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. Here you’ll have access to toilets and showers, as well ● Sinks ● Showers as the option to purchase breakfast and/or dinner. The September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful hotel has a small shop where you can pick up snacks ● Electronics charging ● Potable water time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be and a few essentials. ● Restaurant ● Small shop closed for the season. This campsite is also closer to Champex, making for a shorter day of hiking. Nearby: Those who take the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant would Transportation to/from the trail can be need to backtrack about half a mile along the main TMB arranged from here. There are no other route to reach the hotel. services nearby.

Contact Info:

Hotel de la Forclaz website Stage Eight: Le Peuty

For about half the price of Hotel de la Forclaz, you can Services: camp in the ﬁeld at Le Peuty. Although the facilities are August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails simple, it can be a nice, quiet departure from some of ● Bathrooms (no toilet paper) and warm, sunny weather. the busier sites along the TMB. ● Sinks ● Cold showers September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful To reach the campground, simply continue downhill on ● Sheltered cooking area ● One outlet for electronics time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be the trail for another 30-40 minutes past Col de la charging Forclaz. ● Potable water closed for the season.

Make sure to reference the map when you get close, as the campground is really just an empty ﬁeld without Nearby: much signage or information. ● Restaurant at the gite next to the campground Pitch your tent when you get there and someone will ● Additional restaurants in the stop by in the evening to collect your payment. You can small hamlet of Trient, 15 minutes pay in CHF or Euros. away

Tip: There is no toilet paper available in the bathrooms Contact Info: at Le Peuty. Campers should carry their own supply. N/A Stage Nine: Col de la Forclaz to Tre-le-Champ

Option 1: Camping Pierre Semard Although Tre-le-Champ is the ofﬁcial endpoint of stage August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails 9, neither of the camping options are actually located This campground has excellent amenities within the town. and warm, sunny weather. and is located in close proximity to the TMB. However, the nearby area is lacking in services. Camping Pierre Semard is in Les Frasserands, which is September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful just downhill from Tre-le-Champ and very close to the time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be TMB route, while Camping du Glacier requires a closed for the season. 25-minute detour down to the town of Argentiere.

While Pierre Semard gets points for its great facilities Option 2: Camping du Glaciers and proximity to the trail, Camping du Glacier has the advantage of being near a bigger town with more This large campground also has great services. facilities, but requires a 25-minute detour off the TMB. The nearby town of Argentiere has shops and services.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Nine: Camping Pierre Semard

Pierre Semard is a lovely campground with plenty of Services: ﬂat and shady areas to pitch your tent. August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. Additionally, the campground provides access to an ● Sinks ● Hot showers indoor lounge/bar area with self-serve coffee, September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful computers, and comfy chairs. ● Potable water ● Electronics charging time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be ● WiFi In the morning, pick up the trail about 100 yards from ● Restaurant closed for the season. the campsite (pay close attention- there’s a sign on your ● Laundry left, but it’s easy to miss!) Nearby:

There is a train station in nearby Tre-le-Champ, which you can take to Argentiere or Chamonix. Otherwise there are no other shops or services in the immediate area.

Contact Info:

Camping Pierre Semard website Stage Nine: Camping du Glaciers

Hikers consistently give Camping du Glaciers excellent Services: reviews. August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. This is a large campsite with lots of great amenities. To ● Sinks ● Hot showers reach the campground, you’ll have to walk an extra 25 September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful minutes off the trail (and then back the next morning), ● Potable water ● Electronics charging time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be but in exchange you get easy access to a much wider ● WiFi array of amenities in the larger town of Argentiere. ● Small shop closed for the season. ● Laundry Tip: Arrive early to ensure you get a good pitch as the campground can get quite busy. Nearby:

● Grocery store ● Bars/restaurants ● ATM ● Tourist ofﬁce ● Transit connections

Contact Info:

Camping du Glaciers website Stage Ten: Tre-le-Champ to La Flegere

Option 1: Wild camping near Refuge La There is no ofﬁcial campground on this stage, but it is August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails Flegere possible to camp about 100 meters from Refuge La Flegere (ask the refuge staff to show you where to pitch and warm, sunny weather. This free option gives campers access to the facilities at the cable car station and your tent when you arrive). close proximity to the trail. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful You can use the facilities at the refuge or in the cable time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be car station (when it is open). closed for the season. For those who would like to stay at an actual campground or need to access more services, there is Option 2: Camping de la Mer de Glace also the option of taking the cable car down to the town of Les Praz from La Flegere. This option requires taking the cable car down to the town Les Praz and back up again the following day. For this effort you’ll get the amenities that come with a full-service campground plus shops and restaurants in Les Praz.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Stage Ten: Wild Camping at Refuge La Flegere

Upon arriving at La Flegere, you’ll see a large cable car Services (cable car station): station as well as the picturesque Refuge La Flegere. August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. Before pitching your tent, check in with the refuge to ● Potable water inquire about where camping is permitted. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Please note that the water in the refuge is not time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be drinkable. There is one slightly odd exception to this closed for the season. rule, however. The water in the cable car station Nearby: bathroom is safe to drink, but the station is only open Meals and snacks can be purchased from during normal business hours. Be sure to ﬁll up before it the cafe at the cable car station or at the closes if you are camping. refuge. There are no other services nearby.

You can use the bathroom facilities in the cable car station when it is open. In addition, if you purchase a snack or drink at the refuge you can use the facilities and charge your electronics. Contact Info (Refuge La Flegere):

[email protected] Stage Ten: Camping de la Mer de Glace

For those who would like to stay at an actual Services (cable car station): campground or who need to access more services, August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails there is the option of taking the cable car down to the ● Bathrooms and warm, sunny weather. town of Les Praz from La Flegere. ● Potable water ● Hot showers September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful The cable car typically runs from 9:00-17:00 and costs ● Electronics charging ● Laundry time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be €15 each way. ● WiFi ● Bar closed for the season. Once you get down to Les Praz, Camping de la Mer de ● Small shop 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 Nearby: La Flegere to rejoin the TMB. ● Restaurants ● Shop ● Transit connections

Contact Info:

Camping de la Mer de Glace website Stage Eleven: La Flegere to Les Houches

Option 1: Camping Bellevue Congratulations! You’ve completed the Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the world’s most beautiful and iconic walks! August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails This option allows you to stay close to and warm, sunny weather. the TMB ﬁnish in the town Les Houches. Hardcore campers can return to one of the campgrounds in the However, Les Houches is a smaller town Chamonix Valley, while those looking for more luxurious with fewer services. accommodation should check out our recommendations below. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Regardless of where you stay, make sure you take some time to time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be grab a cold beer, reﬂect on your journey, and toast to your Option 2: Les Arolles remarkable achievement! closed for the season.

Located in Chamonix, this option gives Hotel Le Morgaine – We stayed at this highly reviewed hotel you easy proximity to a wider range of both before and after the TMB. We found the rooms to be services in this iconic mountain town. spacious, the staff very friendly, and the location to be excellent. Room rates are also quite reasonable. You’ll need to catch the local bus upon ﬁnishing your hike in Les Houches. Auberge du Manoir – Known for their friendly staff, beautiful rooms, and great location, the Auberge du Manoir is a great option in Chamonix. See Stage 0 for details and contact information for both of these camping Hôtel Le Refuge des Aiglons – The Hotel Le Refuge des Aiglons is options. located adjacent to the Chamonix Sud bus station, making it an ideal location for the night before you depart Chamonix.

Les Houches: Camping Chamonix: Les Arolles Bellevue

Nearby: Bars/restaurants, ATMs, Grocery store, Outdoor store, bus to/from Chamonix

Services: Section 3 Logistics

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About the course:

Who we are/About TMBtent: Getting to Chamonix from the Geneva Airport

THE BASICS

Cost: €19 - €40

Duration: 1.5 - 2.5 hours The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and accomodation Transport type: Bus or private shuttle (with the exception of camping), must be booked in advance. There’s a chance Advance booking: Required for all options you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we still wouldn’t recommend it.

The vast majority of walkers will get to the start of the Tour du Mont Blanc by first flying into June: Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail. the Geneva Airport (GVA). Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible There are frequent flights to Geneva from the rest of Europe as well as a good number of and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny flights from the U.S. Most U.S. flights arrive early in the morning, leaving you with ample time days, and less crowded trails. to get to Chamonix that same day. July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of Once you’ve landed in Geneva, you’ll have several options for getting to Chamonix, outlined significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful below: warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike.

● OuiBus: We found this to be the cheapest option and would highly recommend August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails OuiBus. The service departs directly from the Geneva Airport and will take you to the and warm, sunny weather. Chamonix Sud bus station, in the heart of Chamonix. September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful ● AlpyBus: AlpyBus runs a door-to-door transfer service from the Geneva Airport to time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be hotels in the Chamonix Valley. It is more costly than OuiBus, but also more convenient closed for the season. since they’ll drop you directly at your hotel (or campground!)

● Mountain Drop-offs: Similar to AlpyBus, Mountain Drop-offs runs a door-to-door transfer service for walkers arriving in Geneva. Very highly rated.

All of these options can also transport you back to the Geneva Airport at the end of the TMB. Most offer discounts for booking a return ticket. Getting to Les Houches from Chamonix

THE BASICS

Cost: €2 - €3

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and accomodation Transport type: Bus or train (with the exception of camping), must be booked in advance. There’s a chance Advance booking: Not required you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we still wouldn’t recommend it.

Many walkers will opt to stay at least one night in Chamonix before and after hiking the Tour June: Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail. du Mont Blanc. While Les Houches is a lovely town, there is no denying that Chamonix has Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible more services and certainly more accommodation options. and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny Luckily, the Chamonix Valley has excellent public transportation links, and it is a breeze to get days, and less crowded trails. to Les Houches and the start of the TMB from just about anywhere in the valley. July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of Bus significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike. If you’re staying in Chamonix, you’ll want to make your way to the Chamonix Sud bus station. Busses depart from the Chamonix Sud bus station every 30 minutes for Les Houches. You can ﬁnd updated service schedules on the Chamonix Bus website. Once in Les Houches, get off at August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails the ‘Les Houches Mairie’ stop located in the center of the village. and warm, sunny weather.

Train September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful Most hikers will ﬁnd that the bus is a more convenient choice for getting from their time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be accomodation to the trail. However, the Mont Blanc Express train route also connects closed for the season. Chamonix and Les Houches via a scenic 15-20 minute ride. Bear in mind that it is a 10-minute uphill walk from the Les Houches train station to the start of the TMB.

Carte d’Hote

Make sure to ask your accommodation provider in Chamonix for this Guest Card. As a beneﬁt of paying the mandatory tourist tax added onto the cost of your lodging, you’ll receive a complimentary Carte d’Hote. This card allows you to ride the bus and train within the Chamonix Valley (including getting to the start of the TMB in Les Houches) free of charge. Campgrounds in Chamonix and Les Houches also provide the Carte d’Hote. The card is only valid for the length of your stay, from check-in through check-out. Where to Stay Before and After the TMB

Even though you’ll be doing plenty of awesome camping during your hike, you may enjoy sleeping in a hotel both before and after the TMB. There is nothing quite like a soft mattress and hot shower after 10 days of trekking! Below are some of the best accommodation options in the Chamonix Valley for either end of your hike. For those determined to camp, please see Stage 0 of the camping guide for information on campgrounds in Les Houches and Chamonix.

The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through Chamonix mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and accomodation Hotel Le Morgaine – Spacious rooms, friendly staff, and an excellent location.. Room rates are also quite reasonable. (with the exception of camping), must be booked in advance. There’s a chance you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we Auberge du Manoir – Known for their friendly staff, beautiful rooms, and great location, the Auberge du Manoir is a great option in Chamonix. If you still wouldn’t recommend it. have a booking before and after the TMB, they’ll store your luggage for free! June: Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail. Hôtel Le Refuge des Aiglons – This hotel is located adjacent to the Chamonix Sud bus station, making it an ideal location for the night you Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible arrive in or before you depart Chamonix. The hotel also offers free luggage and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny storage during your hike if you have a booking with them. days, and less crowded trails.

July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of Les Houches significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful Hotel Les Campanules – Located just across the river from the town center warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike. of Les Houches, Hotel Les Campanules gets great reviews for its tremendous views and excellent food. It’s also a great budget option.

Rocky Pop Hotel – Located just outside of Les Houches, the Rocky Pop August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails hotel has stellar reviews for its funky style and friendly staff. and warm, sunny weather.

September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season.

Luggage Storage Many walkers will be traveling with more luggage than they might want to carry for the entire TMB.

Unfortunately, there are no luggage storage facilities at the train station in Chamonix. Walkers can store their extra luggage at the Auberge du Manor, which charges €2 per day (free if you stay there before and after your hike).

Other hotels and accommodation may store your baggage if you have a reservation before and after you walk, but you’ll want to conﬁrm this ahead of time. Rest Day Options

Many walkers choose to break up the long days of trekking on the TMB by taking a rest day along the way. If you have the time, we highly recommend taking a rest day as it will give your body a chance to recharge and also allow you to explore one of the wonderful villages or towns along the route. Here are your best options:

Courmayeur The hiking season for the TMB generally lasts from late June through Courmayeur is understandably the most popular place for a rest day on the TMB. While it isn’t exactly the halfway point, you’ll have already crossed mid-September. July and August are the busiest months, and accomodation several major passes and your feet may be begging for a break. Courmayeur is also the largest town you’ll encounter on the TMB, making (with the exception of camping), must be booked in advance. There’s a chance for an easy place to stock up on supplies and enjoy a shower and bed. Our you could get away without advance bookings in June and September, but we lodging recommendations for Courmayeur are below: still wouldn’t recommend it. Hotel Maison La Saxe – Located just up the valley from Courmayeur, this small hotel offers an incredible breakfast spread and beautiful rooms. Book early as they only have six rooms! June: Early in the season, you are likely to encounter snow on the trail.

Cresta Et Duc Hotel – Centrally located with free breakfast. What’s not to Depending on the snow levels, there could be sections that will be impassible love?! and you may need to reroute. Otherwise, expect cool evenings, bright sunny days, and less crowded trails.

La Fouly July: Hikers could still encounter some snow along the trail, but chances of La Fouly is just past the halfway point of the TMB, so naturally it makes a good rest day spot. The town is small so there won’t be as much to do as in significant snow will be diminishing as the month wears on. Expect beautiful Courmayeur, but it is a beautiful location nevertheless. Check out our favorite spot in La Fouly: warm days and abundant wildflowers. This is a popular month to hike.

Maya Joie – A highly rated auberge with a variety of room types and free WiFi. August: Another busy month on the trail, hikers can expect snow-free trails and warm, sunny weather.

September: Expect shorter days and increasingly chilly weather. A beautiful time to be on the trail and less crowded, although some accomodation may be closed for the season. Champex Champex is a lovely Swiss town located on a pristine mountain lake. Most walkers who are traveling counterclockwise will arrive in Champex at the end of their seventh day and will be very ready for a break! Champex offers many services, accommodation options, and more to do than La Fouly. Our lodging recommendation for Champex:

Hôtel du Glacier – Get a room with a balcony to enjoy the stunning views! Section 4 Packing for the TMB

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About the course:

Who we are/About TMBtent: Essential Gear

Making smart choices about what to pack (and what to leave behind) is a vital part of setting yourself up for a successful and enjoyable TMB experience. This is inﬁnitely more true for campers, who will need to carry signiﬁcantly more gear. It’s simple; the heavier your pack, the harder your effort. However, with a little thoughtful planning, you can keep your pack weight manageable while still ensuring you have everything you need to be comfortable on the trail and at camp. Highlights:

Cheese: Byu a wedge off a giant wheel at a farmhouse in France, eat it as fondue in Switzerland, Footwear Tent Backpack Trekking Poles or enjoy it as dessert at a rifugio in Italy. Any way you experience the cheese of this region, we Traditional hiking We recommend you Make sure you These are a total boots, hiking shoes, or bring a lightweight complete several hikes game-changer on a promise you can’t go wrong! trail runners will all backpacking tent. If with your bag packed tough trek like the TMB. You (and your knees) work for the conditions possible, a freestanding the same way and with Dietary Restrictions will be so glad to have Baked Goods: The strong French influence in this on the TMB. Bring a tent is ideal, as you may the same weight you’ll them on steep sections, Water: All of the hotels, gites, and campgrounds region means that you’re going to be able to get pair of boots or trail need to pitch on hard, carry on the TMB. Just and this is especially provide potable water. You will pass through shoes that you know rocky surfaces that like shoes, backpacks true for campers who many villages with public drinking fountains, your hands on some excellent baguettes and from experience don’t don’t accommodate need to be broken in, are carrying heavier pastries. Make sure to try a fruit tart, a speciality in cause problems for stakes easily. and your body needs to loads. We recommend but make sure to plan ahead and carry 1-2 your feet. Ideally, you Additionally, a tent with get used to the feeling bringing lightweight, liters of water each day of the hike. Due to the the Alps. telescoping poles that should put at least 30 a large vestibule will of wearing it for can be packed away for presence of agricultural activity near large miles on them in make it easy to keep all extended periods of travel. Also, it is swaths of the trail, we do not recommend various terrains and of your gear dry in the time. In terms of size, Picon Biere: Another regional speciality, Picon beer important to hike with drinking any water from natural streams is a drink made by mixing beer with Picon, an weather conditions to event of rain, while still most campers will need your poles while reduce the chance of giving you enough between 45 and 65 training, as it takes a bit without filtering it first. aperitif made from oranges. The result is a unique running into issues on space inside your tent. liters. Don’t forget to of time to learn how to use them most the trail. bring a pack cover to and refreshing beverage that is worth sampling at effectively. protect against rain. least once. How much should my pack weigh? Dinner at a Mountain Refuge: Many of the refuges There are several factors that influence how much is too much for any individual hiker. along the TMB seem to defy the limitations of Considerations include: geography to cook up some phenomenal multi-course meals in remote locales. There’s ● How fast are you hoping to hike? Generally speaking, lighter=faster. ● Have you completed a multi-day thru-hike with this specific backpack and this amount of nothing better than sharing a delicious meal with weight before? If not, you should really try to keep it below 25lbs (including water!) fellow hikers surrounded by stunning mountain ● Are you injury-prone or do you have any chronic knee, hip, or back issues? If so, you need to scenery. We particularly recommend the dinner at make sure your backpack stays below 20 lbs. ● One last rule of thumb: If you can’t fit everything in a 65L backpack or smaller, you have Rifigio Bonatti. packed too much. PACKING LIST

CAMPING GEAR PERSONAL GEAR MISC. GEAR

❏ Tent ❏ Multi-tool ❏ Guidebook ❏ Sleeping bag ❏ First-aid kit ❏ Ear plugs ❏ Sleeping pad ❏ Hydration bladder ❏ Camera ❏ Pillow ❏ Small day-pack ❏ Unlocked phone ❏ Camping stove ❏ Pack cover ❏ Battery backup ❏ Backpacking pot ❏ Backpack ❏ Biodegradable soap ❏ Utensils ❏ Trekking poles ❏ Travel adapter ❏ Plate/Bowl/Mug ❏ Travel towel ❏ Plastic bags ❏ Stove fuel ❏ Headlamp ❏ Digital watch ❏ Lighter/waterproof matches ❏ Sunscreen ❏ Sleeping mask ❏ ______❏ Toilet paper ❏ ______

WOMEN’S CLOTHING MEN’S CLOTHING

❏ Underwear (3-4 pairs) ❏ Underwear (3-4 pairs) ❏ Socks (3-4 pairs) ❏ Socks (3-4 pairs) ❏ Sports bra (1) ❏ Long sleeve base layer (1) ❏ Long sleeve base layer (1) ❏ Short sleeve hiking shirt (1) ❏ Short sleeve hiking shirt (1) ❏ Hiking pants (1 pair) ❏ Leggings (1 pair) ❏ Running shorts (1 pair) ❏ Running shorts (1 pair) ❏ Down jacket ❏ Down jacket ❏ Rain jacket ❏ Rain jacket ❏ Hiking boots ❏ Hiking boots ❏ Sunglasses ❏ Sunglasses ❏ Gloves ❏ Underwire bra ❏ Hat ❏ Gloves ❏ Sandals/camp shoes ❏ Hat ❏ Buff ❏ Sandals/camp shoes ❏ Rain pants ❏ Buff ❏ ______❏ Rain pants ❏ ______Section 5 Sample Itinerary

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About the course:

Who we are/About TMBtent: Sample Itinerary

This itinerary is designed for those who want to follow the traditional 11-stage counterclockwise route, camping at every stop. The time estimates only reﬂect hiking duration, and therefore do not include the additional time needed to take the bus to reach some of the campgrounds. These times also don’t account for breaks, so make sure to factor that into your planning. For the stages in which we described multiple options in the guide, we’ve indicated in the notes which option was used to create this sample itinerary. Use this as a starting point to build your own customized itinerary, making adjustments for length and accommodation preferences. We’ve provided a blank itinerary on the following page, which you can use to plan out your perfect trek.

Day Start Finish Lodging Distance/Time Notes 1 Les Houches Les Contamines Camping Le Pontet 16km/5.5 hrs Camping in ﬁeld behind 2 Les Contamines Les Chapieux 18km/7.5 hrs tourist ofﬁce 3 Les Chapieux Val Veny Val Veny Campgrounds 22km/8 hrs Option #2 for Stage 3 Option # 2 for Stage 4, then Courmayeur (take bus 4 Val Veny Camping Grandes Jorasses 8km/3 hrs bus from Courmayeur to to Val Ferret) Camping Grandes Jorasses Option #2 for Stage 5. Assumes Courmayeur (take bus to utilizing Bonatti link trail and 5 Val Ferret Camping Grandes Jorasses 13km/5 hrs start) then bus to Camping Grandes Jorasses. Val Ferret (take bus to Arp Bus from Camping Grandes 6 La Fouly Camping Des Glaciers 14km/5 hrs Nouvaz) Jorasses to Arp Nouvaz stop. 7 La Fouly Champex Camping Les Rocailles 15km/4.5 hrs

8 Champex Col de la Forclaz Hotel de la Forclaz 14km/6.5 hrs Option #1 for Stage 8.

9 Col de la Forclaz Tre-le-Champ Chalet Pierre Semard 15km/6 hrs Option #1 for Stage 9. Wild camping at Refuge La 10 Tre-le-Champ Refuge La Flegere 8km/ 3.5 hrs Flegere 11 Refuge La Flegere Les Houches Camping Bellevue 17km/6.5 hrs Customizable Itinerary

Day Start Finish Lodging Distance/Time Notes 1

13 Want more?

Thanks for using our Camping Guide kick off your TMB adventure. This guide is just the starting point when it comes to the planning process- there’s still making reservations, creating your itinerary, training, picking out the right gear, and so much more.

If you’re like us, you want to make sure you’ve thought of everything, and that can be overwhelming. That’s where we can help!

We are thrilled to offer a step-by-step Tour du Mont Blanc Planning Guide, which will walk you through every aspect of the preparation process for the TMB.

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● Utilize an easy-to-follow timeline to ensure ● Receive detailed maps and descriptions of you don't miss out on making reservations each stage, including GPS coordinates and getting good deals ● Get in shape for the hike using our ● Evaluate which accommodation type will three-month training plan be best for you, and receive our recommendations for the can't-miss places ● Use our thorough packing lists and gear to stay recommendations to put together the perfect kit ● Create a budget for your trip, estimate expenses in every spending category, and ● Plan a customized trek using our use our best tips for saving money itinerary-building tool and sample itineraries ● Learn how to turn your smartphone into a GPS device for navigating on the trail ● Get email access to us for personalized Q&A (even without cell service!) support Have a great trip!

Thanks so much for using this guide and we hope you have an unforgettable Tour du Mont Blanc adventure! We love hearing from our readers so please reach out with questions, comments, suggestions, or anything else you’d like to share. You can always ﬁnd us at www.tmbtent.com and on Instagram @tmbtent.

Emily & Ian