Self Guided: Grand Tour Des Combins
Grand Tour des Combins Self Guided Trek 10 Days
Embark on the Tour des Combins circular trek, an unforgettable alpine adventure through the heart of the Alps. Hike ancient paths in Switzerland and Italy with stunning 360-degree views of the Grand-Combin, one of Western Europe’s tallest peaks. Experience authentic mountain villages, meet locals, and enjoy regional cuisine at charming refuges along the way.
-
Duration
10 Days
-
Start Location
Mauvoisin, Switzerland
-
Date(s)
July - September
-
Price
From €1510
Adventure Snapshot
VIEW GALLERY
-
-
+ 16
SWITZERLAND & ITALY / 9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS
This 9 night / 10 day full version of the Tour des Combins trek is an incredible opportunity to completely immerse yourself in the mountains and enjoy the natural beauty of the valleys that surround one of western Europe’s highest peaks. The Grand Combin is located in the Swiss Alps, near the border between Switzerland and Italy. The Grand Combin massif itself includes several peaks, with the highest being Grand Combin de Grafeneire, which stands at 4,314 meters (14,154 feet). The mountain is known for its massive glaciers, rugged terrain, and stunning views.
The route crosses through two countries (Switzerland and Italy) over 10 days, traversing alongside huge glaciers, over high mountain passes, and meandering through beautiful alpine meadows.
This trek keeps you off the beaten track away from the more popular Alpine treks, staying in fairly remote refuges and villages. This trek is a real hidden gem!
Not sure whether you're ready? No problem. Take our Grand Tour des Combins 'Readiness' test.
Grand Tour des Combins 'Readiness' test
Learn more. Download our guide here.
DOWNLOAD PDFEnter your details to download the Grand Tour des Combins Self Guided Trek 10 Days brochure
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The Tour des Combins trek is well suited to fit hillwalkers, capable of trekking for multiple days carrying a reasonably heavy rucksack. You follow footpaths each day and the terrain is very hilly. You can expect to do up to and over 1000m ascent and descent per day.
You'll have the opportunity to embark on a lesser-known yet equally breathtaking alternative to the Tour du Mont Blanc, trekking alongside the stunning Glacier de Corbassière, one of Europe's largest glaciers.
You stay in a mixture of mountain refuges, cabanes and hotels during the trek, which all provide basic but comfortable lodging and good food. As part of this unique adventure, you'll also stay overnight at the iconic St. Bernard Monastery, which dates back to the 11th century.
It might seem like a lot to take in so if you're not sure if you're ready.. No problem. Take our Grand Tour des Combins 'Readiness' test.
Grand Tour des Combins 'Readiness' test
-
Duration
10 Days
-
Start Location
Mauvoisin, Switzerland
-
Date(s)
July - September
-
Ability
Level BLevel B
You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing. You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more 'aggressive' environments. Let's dial it up!
-
Price
From €1510
Adventure Overview
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP
Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last minute equipment on arrival dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary.
For the full downloadable Grand Tour des Combins Trek kit list please click here.
Hiking shoes / Trail Shoes
Good grip and ankle support is recommended
Softshell Jacket
Light technical jacket, ideally with a hood.
Lightweight fleece
Something light and thin.
Thermal Tops
Keep them light and thin.
Tech T-Shirts
Highly breathable, lightweight synthetic technical t-shirt.
FULL KIT LIST
More info
Click the link in the text above to find the full kit list
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
The trek begins in Mauvoisin in Switzerland at the end of the Val de Bagnes valley. We recommend to arrive the night before and overnight nearby in La Chable then take the public bus up to the start point on the morning of your first trekking day. If you would like us to book your accommodation for the first night please ask in advance.
What's Included?
- 9 Nights accommodation
- 9 Breakfasts
- 9 Dinners
- Planning and reservations
- Detailed itinerary and GPX tracks
- 24/7 Support communication with our Alps based team
What's not Included?
- Flights and airport transfers
- In-resort travel (bus / lifts / trains)
- Lunches, snacks and drinks
- Luggage transfers
- Additional nights before, during and after trip (can be added on request)
- Travel insurance (required)
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATION
We know the importance of having comfortable accommodation on this trip. After a long day of trekking it's vital to have a comfortable bed and good food to enjoy in a scenic location. We've handpicked refuges and other mountain accommodation along the way that we're sure you're going to love. (A single room supplement is available where possible, please request this far in advance)
VIEW GALLERY
-
-
+ 6
ON THE TREK
The majority of the accommodation on the trip will be in dormitories and / or small shared rooms. You can upgrade in some of the accommodation options if requested in advance and based on availability.
-
Duration
8 Nights
-
Internet
Not included
-
Beds
Shared Rooming
-
Food
Half Board
VIEW GALLERY
Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard
One of the highlights of this trek is staying in the Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard. It is a place of great alpine historical significance.
Napoleon Bonaparte stopped for a few hours at the hospice on May 20, 1800 during his great crossing of the Alps. The Hospice was founded in 1050 by Bernard de Montjoux, archdeacon of Aosta, to welcome and protect the many travelers who take this passage through the Alps.
-
Duration
1 Nights
-
Internet
Not included
-
Beds
Shared Rooming
-
Food
Half Board
Immerse yourself in Nature
Adventure Itinerary
Here you'll find the full itinerary including distances (KM) ascents and descents each day and a rough estimate of how long it will take.
Start & End point: Mauvoisin, Switzerland
Length: 10 days
Whilst we aim to stick to the itinerary below, accommodation in some of the locations may not always be available. In this instance you will be booked into a suitable alternative accommodation.
Keep in mind: The moving times shown don’t account for breaks. Add 1–2 hours each day for a more accurate total trail time.
-
Day 1:
Mauvoisin - Cabane Chanrion
Your journey starts in Mauvoisin with a climb to the top of the Mauvoisin Dam, one of the highest arch dams in Europe. From here, enjoy sweeping views of Lac de Mauvoisin, a turquoise lake stretching nearly 5 kilometers. Crossing the dam to the right bank, follow a trail through a series of tunnels, with waterfalls tumbling down the cliffs around you.
The route continues on a well-marked path to the Écuries du Giétro, a group of historic mountain buildings. Beyond this, the trail opens onto the Tsofeirë plateau, a peaceful area of alpine meadows. A steady climb leads to the Tsofeirë Pass, where you’ll get stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
From the pass, descend through rugged terrain shaped by glaciers, eventually reaching the Cabane de Chanrion, your final stop for the day. This welcoming mountain hut provides a well-earned rest after a rewarding day of hiking through varied and dramatic landscapes.
11km / 900m up / 282m down / 4 hours -
Day 2:
Cabane Chanrion - Rifugio Champillon
From the Cabane de Chanrion, the route is visible as it descends through rolling alpine pastures toward the Grand Charmotane Bridge. After crossing the bridge, the trail steepens for a short while before easing into a mix of rocky and grassy terrain. A well-marked path then leads up to the Fenêtre de Durand, a high mountain pass steeped in history. It was here in 1943 that Luigi Einaudi, later the second president of Italy, crossed into Switzerland while fleeing fascism, welcomed by Swiss soldiers.
From the Fenêtre de Durand, the descent toward By offers striking views of the imposing Mont Gelé and the gentler slopes of Mont Avril, marking the transition between the Valais and the Aosta Valley. The trail first navigates rocky terrain before reaching the Thoules pastures, where it joins a forestry road leading toward the Balme pasture and the By Basin. From there, a short 150-meter ascent brings you to the Ru de By, which you follow until reaching Néan. Leaving the watercourse behind, the final climb leads to Tsa de Champillon, before arriving at the Rifugio Champillon, your stop for the night.
23km / 1135m up / 1170m down / 8 hours -
Day 3:
Rifugio Champillon - St. Rhemy
Leaving the Rifugio in Champillon, the trail climbs steeply toward the Champillon Col, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Grand Combin and the Mont Blanc massif in the distance. From the pass, the descent leads into the Menouve Valley, passing through the Pointier pasture before the route begins to climb again.
Following the Tour des Combins, the trail ascends to the Combe Germain pasture before reaching the Eternod Stream. From here, the route heads west through a scenic larch forest, eventually meeting the Barasson mountain. A final stretch on a well-marked path connects to a forestry road, leading down to Saint-Rhémy, marking the end of the day’s hike.
15km / 464m up / 1135m down / 5 hours -
Day 4:
St. Rhemy - Rifugio Frassati
Starting in Saint-Rhémy, the trail first leads to the main village of Saint-Léonard, passing through its center and continuing westward beyond the church. After crossing beneath the international road, the route follows a path under the covered road leading back toward the Crévacol ski area.
From here, the ascent begins into the Comba de Merdeux, winding through alpine terrain and passing several mountain pastures along the way. The trail steadily climbs until reaching the Rifugio Pier Giorgio Frassati, a welcoming mountain hut and your destination for the night.
11km / 1127m up / 206m down / 4 hours -
Day 5:
Rifugio Frassati - Great St. Bernard Pass
Leaving the Frassati Refuge, the trail heads northeast toward the Col des Ceingles at 2,817 meters. From the pass, a descent leads into the Comba des Thoules, followed by a short climb to the Col de Saint-Rhémy at 2,563 meters.
The path then winds downhill, passing through Praz de Farcoz before joining the Route du Grand-Saint-Bernard above Fonteinte. A final stretch leads to the Col du Grand-Saint-Bernard, home to the historic hospice and its famous St. Bernard dogs, marking the end of today's trek.
10km / 754m up / 833m down / 4 hours -
Day 6:
Great St. Bernard Pass - La Fouly
Starting at the historic Great St. Bernard Hospice at 2,470 meters, the route begins with a descent past the scenic Lac du Saint Bernard, with the Italian mountains reflecting in its waters. Crossing the border back into Italy, the trail leads down to the Baou mountain pasture before beginning a steady climb toward the Fenêtre de Ferret, the pass marking the Italian-Swiss border, where stunning panoramic views await.
From the pass, a gentle descent brings you to the Lacs de Fenêtre, with breathtaking vistas of Mont Blanc, Grandes Jorasses, and Mont Dolent in the distance. The trail then drops more steeply past the Plan-La-Chaux and Ars mountain pastures, eventually reaching the hamlet of Ferret. Following the Dranse River, the path alternates between its left and right banks before arriving in La Fouly, the endpoint for the day.
13km / 390m up / 1260m down / 4 hours -
Day 7:
La Fouly - Cabane La Tsissette
The day’s hike begins with a climb to the Col du Basset, a 1,200-meter ascent that can be shortened by taking the Arpalle chairlift. From the top of the lift, follow signs for the Col du Basset, crossing the Alpage de la Fouly before the trail steepens and winds toward the pass. Along the way, you may spot chamois, ibex, and marmots, while the panoramic views make the effort worthwhile.
From the Col du Basset, the descent leads into the Combe de l’A, a protected nature reserve in the Grand-Saint-Bernard region. Spanning elevations from 1,400 to 3,000 meters, this area is rich in wildlife, home to red deer, chamois, ibex, foxes, and marmots, as well as birds of prey like golden eagles and goshawks. A well-maintained footpath allows hikers to experience this alpine sanctuary without disturbing the animals, with educational panels along the way offering insights into the region’s unique geology and flora.
Following the Ruisseau de l’A, the route eventually reaches the Cabane La Tsissette, offering food and accommodation from mid-June to mid-October. Nestled in a peaceful setting, it provides a perfect resting spot for the night.
10km / 1183m up / 777m down / 5 hours -
Day 8:
Cabane La Tsissette - Cabane Mille
Leaving La Tsissette, the trail heads north, exiting the Combe de l’A and descending toward the village of Drance, situated along the River Dranse. From here, a steady climb leads to Liddes, the main village of the region, before the route turns south into the Grand-Saint-Bernard Valley, gradually ascending to Bourg-Saint-Pierre.
As the most significant village on the Grand Tour des Combins, Bourg-Saint-Pierre is rich in history, featuring landmarks such as the Saint-Charles Bridge, an ancient bell tower, a Roman milestone, and well-preserved historic homes. After exploring the village, the trail continues upward, passing the Chapel of Lorette, Creux du Mâ, Boveire d’en Bas, Le Coeur, and Erra, meandering through alpine pastures with stunning views over the Entremont Valley.
The day's journey ends at the Col de Mille, where the Col de Mille Hut, a cozy 59-bed mountain refuge, offers breathtaking panoramic views and a well-deserved rest.
24km / 1560m up / 1113m down / 8 hours -
Day 9:
Cabane Mille - Panossiere Hut
From the Col de Mille, the trail enters the Bagnes municipality, Switzerland’s largest at 282 km². The Tour des Combins route gradually turns northeast, reaching La Treutse (2,092m) after about an hour. From here, you'll enjoy sweeping views over the scattered hamlets of Bagnes, home to around 7,800 residents.
Continuing east, the path winds through Arolla pines and blueberry fields before arriving at the Brunet Hut. From there, the route heads southeast, leading to the Sery Bridge, which spans a narrow gorge. After a mix of gentle climbs and descents, the trail reaches the small village of La Maye.
A steep zigzagging ascent brings you to a 200-meter-long footbridge, crossing streams fed by the Corbassière Glacier. From here, an easy final stretch leads to the François-Xavier Bagnoud Hut in Panossière, where breathtaking glacier views and a well-earned rest await.
15km / 1064m up / 900m down / 6 hours -
Day 10
Panossiere Hut - Mauvoisin
After passing along the moraine on the right bank of the Corbassière glacier, you'll start a short but steep climb up to the Col des Otanes, standing at 2870m, the highest point of the TDC. From here, the view is truly breathtaking. Surrounded by towering rock and ice, the Grand-Combin stands tall, offering a view of one of the most stunning spots in the Alps.
A one-hour descent brings you to Tseumette. From this grassy saddle, you'll have a great view of the Mont-Pleureur and Ruinette peaks. Far below, you can spot the impressive 250m-high concrete wall of Europe’s tallest arch dam. The descent continues all the way to Mauvoisin.
7kms / 289m up / 1077m down / 3 hours
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
GTDC: What is it?
The Tour des Combins is a breathtaking multi-day trek that encircles the spectacular Combins Massif along the Swiss-Italian border. Its Read more
The Tour des Combins is a breathtaking multi-day trek that encircles the spectacular Combins Massif along the Swiss-Italian border. Its highest peak stands at 4,314m (14,153ft), competing with its more famous neighbor, Mont Blanc (4,808m / 15,774ft). The trail spans three distinct regions: Valle d’Aosta in Italy, Val d’Entremont, and Val de Bagnes in Switzerland.
GTDC: How do I get there?
We’ve chosen Mauvoisin as the starting point for our itineraries, though there are several other options including:La Fouly, Read more
GTDC: Fitness
The Grand Tour des Combins trek is a wonderful but challenging adventure. It features significant ascents and descents, so it’ Read more
The Grand Tour des Combins trek is a wonderful but challenging adventure. It features significant ascents and descents, so it’s important not to underestimate the fitness required to complete and truly enjoy it. While you don’t need to be an elite athlete, we strongly recommend doing some training to ensure you arrive in good physical shape for this type of trek. See our trekking training advice here.
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Grand Tour des Combins Self Guided Trek 10 Days trip is rated Level B, for those with some prior experience We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.
Level A
For beginners and newcomers
- You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure
- Little / no prior experience
- Shorter time duration
- No technical skills required but keen to learn
- Basic level of fitness
More your level?
Level B
For those with some prior experience
- You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
- You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
- Some basic skills
- Moderate fitness
Think you've got this?
This trip is at this level
Level C
For accomplished adventurers
- You enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally
- You’re comfortable on multi-day adventures and you call yourself an avid adventurer
- You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it is there' attitude
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level D
For the pros
- You're ready to test your skills on the next challenge
- You're comfortable in most types of alpine environments
- Some level of technical skills
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level E
For the experts
- You’ve been on multiple adventures and have built up a solid skillset to tackle most challenges out there
- Good technical skills and knowledge
- Experienced in alpine/mountains environments
- Very high level of fitness
More your level?
Climb Triglav
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Slovenia’s Julian Alps as you embark on an unforgettable trek through Triglav National Park. This exhilarating journey will take you to the summit of Slovenia’s highest peak, lead you through the stunning Triglav Lakes Valley, reveal nature’s most awe-inspiring wonders, and offer you the experience of staying in traditional mountain huts.
-
July - September
-
Level A
-
€950.00
The West Highland Way Waiting list
Discover the raw beauty of Scotland on this iconic 96-mile journey from Milngavie to Fort William. The West Highland Way is a trekker’s dream, winding through ancient glens, misty lochs, and towering mountains that paint the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you’re tracing the shores of Loch Lomond, crossing the rugged Rannoch Moor, or conquering the Devil's Staircase, every step brings a new adventure and breathtaking vistas. Join us on this unforgettable journey and experience the Highlands at their finest, with carefully planned routes, cozy accommodations, and expert guidance every step of the way.
-
March-October
-
Level A
-
€
Skills & Climb: Ben Nevis
Tackle Britain's highest peak in the snowy winter months away from the summer crowds. Spend 2 epic days on the west coast of Scotland as you take on the challenge of climbing Ben Nevis in winter conditions, with crampons on your feet and an ice axe in your hand. The perfect introduction for hikers with a good level of fitness who are looking to dive into mountaineering.
-
January - March
-
Level A
-
€
Dolomites Alta Via 1 Guided 10 Days
Discover the Alta Via 1 Trek, an extraordinary adventure through the Dolomites, Italy. The Alta Via 1 Trek is a 120-kilometer hiking experience that traverses the breathtaking UNESCO-listed landscapes of the Dolomites. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, this 10 day trip will Immerse you in the rich culture and natural beauty of the region.
-
July - September
-
Level B
-
€2350.00
Prep Peak: Toubkal Summer
Enjoy a Moroccan cultural rollercoaster ride in the warmer summer months, from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the wild and quiet Atlas Mountains in just 5 days. Climbing Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4167m, is challenging but suitable for newcomers to trekking mountains. The combination of mountain and culture on this trip is what makes it extra special. This trip runs during the 'summer season'.
-
May - October
-
Level B
-
€620.00
Intro Hut Ski Tour – Chamonix
Introducing keen and competent off-piste skiers to the world of hut ski touring. This is great preparation for our hut to hut ski touring trips and an important confidence builder. You will learn the essential skills required for ski touring over multiple days and experience staying in a mountain hut.
-
February - March
-
Level B
-
€1300.00
Haute Route Trek Guided 11 Days
The Haute Route trek is one of the world’s great multi-day treks. The route links two world famous alpine mountains, Mont Blanc in France and the Matterhorn in Switzerland.
-
July - September
-
Level C
-
€3450.00
Austria, Otztal Ski Tour
The Otztal ski tour is a stunning link up of beautiful Austrian and Italian mountain huts and peaks in the wild Tyrol region of the Alps. The ski terrain is suited for those looking to tackle a challenging 'hut to hut' ski tour similar to that of the famous Haute Route. You can expect long ski touring days with plenty of uphill and enjoyable descents, and often more comfortable huts than those found in the Western Alps.
-
March
-
Level C
-
€2030.00
Mont Blanc Turbo
Climb Mont Blanc (4808m) the highest peak in Western Europe. It’s a beautiful, imposing and highly sought after summit that sits at the roof of the Alps on the border of France and Italy. If your adventure juices are flowing, then keep on reading...
-
June - July
-
Level C
-
€2650.00
Climb the Triple Crown
Climb the famous Triple Crown of the Alps. Mont Blanc, Matterhorn and Eiger. A lifetime mountaineering achievement, all possible within 10 days with the right fitness and preparation.
-
July - August
-
Level D
-
€12900.00
Swiss, Bernese Oberland Ski Tour
The Bernese Oberland ski tour is a stunning link up of high altitude mountain huts and peaks in the wild Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps. The ski terrain in this region is suited for those with previous ski touring experience, who are looking to progress to the next level and discover some high altitude peaks and glaciers. You can expect long ski tour days, comfortable huts and big ski descents.
-
March
-
Level D
-
€2030.00
Climb the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is probably the most iconic peak out there in the mountains. Rising behind the charming town of Zermatt on the Swiss / Italian border this is a highly sought after summit for mountaineers and adventurers alike. Daring, dramatic and intimidating, this is one of our favourite mountains to guide.
-
July - August
-
Level D
-
€4350.00
Climb the Eiger
The Eiger is one of the most sought after summits in the Alps and a formidable challenge for any keen mountaineer. Located in the Bernese Alps in Switzerland, this is a major Alpine classic steeped in historic tales of heroic climbing. On this trip we climb via the Mittellegi ridge. Got what it takes?
-
July - August
-
Level E
-
€4450.00