Treks
Haute Route Trek
The Haute Route Trek is one of the world’s great multi-day treks. The route links two renowned alpine mountaineering centres, Chamonix in France, home to Mount Blanc and Zermatt in Switzerland, home to the Matterhorn.
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Duration
9 Days
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Start Location
Chamonix, France
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Date(s)
July - September
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Price
€1995
Adventure Snapshot

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TREK FROM MONT BLANC TO THE MATTERHORN
The summer Haute Route Trek is one of the world’s great multi-day treks. The route links two renowned alpine mountaineering centres, Chamonix in France, home to Mount Blanc and Zermatt in Switzerland, home to the Matterhorn. The path passes through breathtaking alpine scenery and you will enjoy stunning mountain panoramas every step of the journey.
Spectacular views are standard on this trek and it is a great stepping stone for the trekker to experience the High Alps and its glaciers. The summer haute route trek is for hill walkers and trekkers keen to get stuck in to the the mountains, travel through some picturesque valleys and go over some high alpine passes.
The hiking route follows a network of well-marked and signposted trails that stays below 3000m and takes advantage of the popular mountain huts and small inns and hotels in the charming villages along the way. In the summer the route is safe, entirely non-technical and while challenging because of its daily elevation gains and distances, is achievable by any hiker in reasonably good physical condition. It's a journey you will never forget.


YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The summer haute route trek is for hill walkers and trekkers keen to get stuck in to the mountains and experience one of worlds great treks. You should be capable of carrying a rucksack (~10kg) for 6-8 hours a day for 9 days in a row. We will be crossing high cols/saddles and traversing valleys with tricky hiking terrain such boulders and morrain.
You do not need any experience of glacier crossing/using crampons as our guides will teach you all the necessary skills at the start of the course. Not sure whether you're ready? No sweat! Drop us a note and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.
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Duration
9 Days
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Start Location
Chamonix, France
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Date(s)
July - September
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Guide Ratio
10:1
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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!
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Price
€1995
Adventure Overview

Kit & equipment required for this adventure
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.
You can bring a small 40-50L bag that can carry your change of clothes, and anything that is not essential on the day trips. Our vehicle support will bring the bags to the hotels on most evenings other than the nights in the mountain huts.

Rucksack
Mountaineering specific 35-40L backpack
Available to rent on arrival

Mountaineering or hiking boots
B1 is fine

Waterproof jacket

Waterproof pants
Side-leg zippers are helpful

Thermal socks
Good walking socks are required

Soft shell trousers
Stretchy, durable mountaineering trousers

Shorts
Good to have for approaches to the mountain huts especially in warmer temperatures

T-shirts

Midweight fleece jacket

Soft shell jacket
Light technical jacket ideally with hood

Warm hat
Ideally thin and single layered so it can fit under the helmet

Sun hat
Choose your hat of choice as long as it shields you from the sun

Sunglasses
At least cat 4 and ideally with limited gaps at the sides

Sun cream
Factor 30-50 High Mountain sunscreen

Water bottles
You must be able to carry at least 2L of water in your backpack

Trekking Poles
Foldable poles are best

Sleeping bag
Rated to -15 °C comfort temperature

Trekking Towel

Head torch
Don't forget to pack spare batteries. They're essential

ID and documents
Passport / Drivers license, Visa, Insurance, Yellow Fever Card (if applicable)

Cash / credit card
For extra costs such as drinks and snacks

First aid kit
Blister kit, paracetamol, etc

Thermal tops
Light colours are recommended

Midweight thermal underwear bottoms

Bandana / Buff

Hiking shoes / trainers
Good to have for approaches to the mountain huts.

Earplugs
Highly recommended for the mountain huts

Insect Repellant
"I’d recommend Adventure Base 100%. I want to be an Adventure Base guide!"
"The route was stunning and the guides were great. Logistics were really seamless which makes a huge difference. All this contributes to a stunning experience for the participants."
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
On arrival day you meet with your guides and fellow climbers at the accommodation for a welcome briefing in the evening. Here you will have an opportunity to ask any last minute questions as well as share your pre trip excitement with your group.
What's Included?
- All 8 nights accommodation
- Breakfast and dinner on each night of the trip, including in Chamonix and Zermatt
- Handpicked Adventure Base guide(s)
- Luggage transfers (apart from 2 nights in huts)
- All transfers on itinerary
What's not Included?
- Flights
- Airport transfers to Chamonix and from Zermatt
- Travel insurance
- Snacks and drinks
This trip is running on the following dates
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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATION
We know the importance of having comfortable accommodation on this trip. After long days trekking it's vital to have a comfortable bed and good food to enjoy. We've handpicked hotels and other mountain accommodation along the way that we're sure you're going to love.

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Hotels, Chalets, Auberges or Gîtes
During this trip the group will spend 6 nights in good quality, comfortable hotels, chalets, auberges or gîtes, and 2 nights in mountain huts with blankets or duvets provided.
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Duration
6
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Internet
Wifi included
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Beds
Twin sharing
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Food
Half board

Mountain Huts
During this trip the group will spend 6 nights in good quality, comfortable hotels, chalets, auberges or gîtes, and 2 nights in mountain huts with blankets or duvets provided.
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Duration
2
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Internet
Not included
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Food
Half board

WHAT TO EXPECT
HERE'S YOUR ITINERARY
While we try and stick to the tried and tested itinerary below, the mountain and the weather sometimes has other ideas. We will always remain as flexible as possible, which is why we only work with experienced and knowledgable guides, to make sure we can change any plans if required.
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Day 1:
Arrival in Chamonix
Your trip starts in the historic French mountain town of Chamonix. Our guide will give a briefing about the days to come, and can check out clothing and gear if need be. If you need more equipment, Chamonix has a huge number of outdoor shops with a large choice of kit, so it’s a great place to top up your supplies. Dinner and overnight in Chamonix.
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Day 2:
Chamonix to Col de la Forclaz
The first morning is broken gently with a ride on the Mont Blanc Express train that drops us at the head of the Chamonix valley. From here we head up through larch woods before gaining the balcony trail which leads to the Aiguillette des Posettes. At your first mountain col there are incredible views over Le Tour glacier and behind to the jagged peaks of the high Alps. The day comes to an end with a climb to the Col de la Forclaz where we stay for the night (we sometimes stay in Trient and have this climb the next morning). Approx. walking time 6-7 hours Distance: 13.5km. Total Ascent: 1200m. Total Descent: 1100m.
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Day 3:
Col de la Forclaz to Lac de Louvie
The family-run ‘Alpage de Bovine’ gives the first part of our day its name as we steadily climb the ‘Bovine Trail’ to the traditional summer retreat of the ‘Alpage’. As well as looking after the herd of prize cows this friendly Alpage provides refreshments and wonderful home-made cakes. Next up is a descent through the gorge to a rustic cafe at Plan de L’Au and a short transfer to the remote village of Fionnay. There is now a journey into the hills along the truly stunning trail leading to the beautiful Cabane de Louvie. The spectacularly located cabane is perched some 750m above you, and the challenging trail leading to it offers increasingly breathtaking panoramas across many of the 4000m peaks of the Alps. Thankfully we can get our breath back with a welcome drink at the top! Approx. walking time 7-9 hours (No access to kit bag) Distance: 18 km. Total Ascent: 1250m . Total Descent: 550m .
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Day 4:
Cabane de Louvie to the Cabane de Prafleuri
Traversing two cols from one high mountain hut to the next, this day is possibly the most dramatic of the trek. First thing in the morning we follow the shoreline of a glassy lake, where is we are blessed with still weather, the surrounding mountains can be perfectly reflected on the surface. The trail then leads us steeply up to a high path which wanders beneath the cliffs. We now head for the Col de Louvie passing at 2921m before descending onto the edge of the Grand Desert Glacier. The Col de Prafleuri is our next goal, taking you even higher to 2987m. Not too far away is the Cabane de Prafleuri (2624m) where we spend another peaceful evening in the mountains. Staying up at high altitude provides us the best chance to see families of ibex grazing. Approx. walking time 7-9 hours. (No access to kit bag) Distance: 18 km . Total Ascent: 820m. Total Descent: 550m .
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Day 5:
Lac de Dix to La Sage
Now that we are accustomed and acclimatised to the rigors of the mountains we start out with a climb to gain the Col de Roux. Early morning on this col with views to the glacier and the milky waters of Lac de Dix is a great start to the day. Rewarded by views of the Pigne D’Arolla and Mont Blanc de Cheilon, we descend gently to follow the lake to its end, usually passing a few noisy marmots on our way. An exciting part of the trek is up next, with a steep ascent to the Col de Riedmatten or the ‘Pas de Chevre’ (translating to Goats’ Path) and its brand new ladders, which having been replaced in 2015 make for a much easier crossing than in previous years. The rest of the day is all downhill to the alpine village of Arolla, nestled in its very own forest of Arolla pines. Here you can have a drink and a rest before taking a transfer to La Sage where we rendez-vous with our kit bags! Approx. walking time 8-9 hours Distance: 22km. Total Ascent: 1100m. Total Descent: 1360m .
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Day 6:
La Sage to Zinal
This day too involves crossing two high cols so we start early and ascend to the Col de Torrent at 2912m. The following descent takes us to the green waters of the Lac de Moiry – where there is a café at the dam (hurrah!). Now we can see some of the giant peaks of the Pennine Alps, including the magnificent Dent Blanche (aptly named white-tooth). The demanding Col de Sorebois is up next – slightly shorter than the Col de Torrent it shouldn’t present any difficulties. From our high point we are rewarded with fabulous vistas across to the Weisshorn, the Dent Blanche and the Zinal Rothorn. Approx. walking time 8- 9 hours. Distance: 24.5km . Total Ascent: 2000m. Total Descent: 1850m.
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Day 7:
Zinal to Gruben
With just one col on the itinerary today we can relax on the gentle ascent this morning and look out for nutcracker birds which are found in these woods. Upon gaining the summer alpine meadow we traverse the mountainside on a nice undulating trail until we reach the junction of the path for two Cols; the Col de la Forcletta (2874m) and the Meidpass (2790m). Normally, we take the Forcletta as it offers great views of the glaciers and peaks of the Turtmann valley; however the decision lies with the guide and depends on conditions on the day. We usually arrive at the col around lunchtime for a welcome break. On the descent there is often an opportunity to see the increasingly rare edelweiss flower. Approx. walking time 7-8 hours (If the Meidpass is taken then the ascent, descent and distance is slightly more) Distance 19 km. Total Ascent 1315m . Total Descent 1165m .
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Day 8:
Gruben to Zermatt
The last day of trekking does not disappoint as we start out through open woodland before heading into high pastures. Our final pass is the Augstbordpass at 2894m. Behind the pass is a descent into a bowl where we follow a rocky trail which clings to the mountainside. We stop at the Twära viewpoint for a magnificent view into the Mattertal (although the Matterhorn remains elusive until reaching Zermatt!). Then we begin our descent to the pretty hamlet of Jungu, followed by a final steep section to the town of St. Niklaus. There is an option to save your knees and take the “characterful” cable car down from Jungu (not included) which eliminates the final 1000 metres of descent. From St Niklaus we take a short train or taxi ride into the iconic town of Zermatt and see its pride – the Matterhorn. We enjoy a final meal together here contemplating the highs of the week before falling into bed. Approx walking time 7 hours Distance 16 km . Total Ascent 1070m. Total Descent 1765m.
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Day 9:
Departure
Departure after breakfast.

Frequently asked questions about this adventure
Confirming bookings
We need a minimum of four trekkers to run this course. Your booking will remain pending if you are the Read more
We need a minimum of four trekkers to run this course. Your booking will remain pending if you are the first to book onto a course and we will send you a confirmation as soon as a the course is confirmed. We recommend not booking flights till the course is confirmed. We will confirm the course at the latest 10 weeks before the start date. In order to increase the chance of confirming trips as soon as possible we team up with other small suppliers, so you may be on the trip with trekkers who have booked from a similar company.
Do I need to have previous experience?
You don’t need any previous trekking experience but it is worth having some hill walking experience behind you. This Read more
You don’t need any previous trekking experience but it is worth having some hill walking experience behind you. This will help prepare you for the amount of walking we’ll be doing on this trek. You must be able to walk comfortably on mixed ground for long periods of time.
How many clients per guide?
Our trekking ratio is 10:1.
Our trekking ratio is 10:1.
Is there WiFi along the way?
What are the guides like?
Our guides are all fully qualified, certified International Mountain Leaders. They are super friendly and knowledgeable and know the route Read more
Our guides are all fully qualified, certified International Mountain Leaders. They are super friendly and knowledgeable and know the route like the back of their hands.
What are the mountain huts like?
We stay 2 nights in mountain huts on this trip. They are fairly basic but comfortable. You will sleep in dormitories Read more
We stay 2 nights in mountain huts on this trip. They are fairly basic but comfortable. You will sleep in dormitories on a shared basis, sometimes up to 6-8 per room. The lodges offer breakfast and dinner as well as a few snacks.
What kind of fitness level do I need?
What size backpack should I bring?
Your backpack should be between 20-30l. This will be your day pack and must be a comfortable fit, you’ Read more
Your backpack should be between 20-30l. This will be your day pack and must be a comfortable fit, you’ll spend many days with it on your back. It must fit your essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, camera, etc. Your other luggage will be transported by vehicle to each hotel.
What type of boots do I need for the trek?
You will need comfortable, durable trekking boots. Something like the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 Gore-Tex boot. Gore-tex will ensure your Read more
You will need comfortable, durable trekking boots. Something like the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 Gore-Tex boot. Gore-tex will ensure your feet stay dry and warm. Trail shoes are also OK, although make sure they fit well and are durable.
What will we do if the weather is bad?
This depends on a few factors and how bad the weather is. We’ll always aim to continue the trek Read more
This depends on a few factors and how bad the weather is. We’ll always aim to continue the trek even if it’s raining/snowing as long as it is safe to do so. The weather in Summer is generally very reliable with clear skies and dry conditions following the monsoons. If the weather is truly terrible for a day or two we will rest in the lodge until it passes or use our vehicle to move you along to the next stop.
Will I definitely make it from beginning to end?
In short, no. Whilst we will always strive to get you along the trek safely, sometimes the weather or other Read more
In short, no. Whilst we will always strive to get you along the trek safely, sometimes the weather or other factors like your personal fitness will prevent you from completing the trek. The lead guide will always conduct a meeting with the clients and other guides each evening to check how everyone is doing and to field any questions or concerns. All decisions will have client wellbeing as a top priority. But in 99 out of 100 cases you’ll make it! We will always provide vehicle support if necessary.
Meet your guides for this adventure

Ben
Mountain Leader
Ben is a UIMLA International Mountain Leader/Guide and works as our lead Trekking Guide. He has worked as an Expedition Leader in challenging environments around the world in countries such as Borneo, Mongolia, Morocco and Costa Rica and at home in the European Alps, responsible for the safety and success of expeditions for many years. His passion for the mountains is infectious and he loves sharing a summit photo or long-distance Trek with our clients.

Fabio
Lead IFMGA
Fabio has guided with us for close to ten years now and has summited Mont Blanc more times than we can remember. He's even helped Sir Richard Brans get to the top of Western Europe. When asked what his favourite mountain was his response was 'It's the mountain not known to many, in a remote country that provides opportunity for adventure. That said, I do love Cordillera Blanca (Peru) to guide in, Montserrat (Barcelona) because it's where it all started for me and Main De Fatima (Mali) because it's special to me!"

Faust
Lead IFMGA
Born in the Aran Valley, from parents who were ski teachers and mountain guides, the motivation inherited by nature has led him to practice all facets of mountain sports such as climbing, skiing and mountaineering. He has spent his alpine career as part of the FEDME team (Spanish Federation of Mountain and Climbing Sports) and his passion and profession have led him to travel to other continents to carry out his activity.

Fede
Lead IFMGA
"My favorite mountain is the Midi d’Ossau, in the Pyrenees. It is a volcanic and unique mountain, that a stands out from the other peaks around. It is a huge fortress with many different features that provides incredible rock climbing routes, and the most important thing is that is 20 minutes from my house ;)"

Lars
Lead IFMGA
Lars is a IFMGA Guide originally from Belgium, with over 20 years of experience climbing and splitboarding in the Mont Blanc massif, the Alps and the greater ranges of the world. Having lived in Chamonix for over a decade he has enjoyed the unique and unlimited climbing possibilities in and around the valley. Lars is also one of the most recognised and experienced splitboard guides leading expeditions to Kamchatka, Greenland, Iceland and more.

Miha
Lead IFMGA
Miha is an IFMGA guide from Slovenia based between the beautiful Julian Alps and Chamonix. He has been climbing for over 20 years all over the world, including expeditions to Nepal, Tibet, India, Pakistan, USA, Mexico and Peru. He summited an 8000er on his first expedition to the Himalaya, did a first ascent on the previously unclimbed Lasher peak in the Himalaya and climbed El Capitan and many routes over the Alps.

Pablo
Lead IFMGA
Pablo is originally from a small mountain village in Spain and came to Chamonix with only one dream to become a mountain guide. Based in Chamonix since 2013, Pablo made the Alps his playground as a guide and as an alpinist and has climbed many of the classic alpine routes. He combines mountain guiding with helicopter rescue work in Spain during the off seasons.

Roger
IFMGA
"I love what I do and love to transmit my passion while guiding. After touring the world following the call of the mountains and human cultures and fulfilling my dreams, I have put together all the knowledge gained and a strong background as a mountain guide to become one of the most versatile, dedicated and professional guides back home, in the Pyrenees."

READY TO TREK FROM CHAMONIX TO ZERMATT?
We hope this page has described all the information you need, but don't hesitate to ask us if you require a little more. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.
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