Trail Running
Self Guided Trail Running: Grand Tour des Combins in 7 Days
Take on the Grand Tour des Combins in 7 days — a demanding multi-day trail running adventure linking the classic Tour des Combins with the historic Tour du Grand St Bernard. This high-alpine circuit crosses Switzerland and Italy on runnable mountain trails, old trading routes, and panoramic ridgelines beneath the towering Grand Combin (4314 m), Switzerland’s second-highest peak. Expect big mountain days, huge views, remote valleys, and welcoming alpine refuges serving hearty regional food at the end of each stage.
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Duration
7 Days
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Start Location
Mauvoisin, Switzerland
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Date(s)
July - September
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Price
From €1200
Adventure Snapshot
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+ 102
SWITZERLAND & ITALY / 6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS
This 6 night / 7 day version of the Tour des Combins is an unforgettable trail running journey through the heart of the Swiss and Italian Alps. Designed for runners looking to fully immerse themselves in high mountain terrain, the route circles the mighty Grand Combin massif (4314 m), one of the highest peaks in Western Europe, known for its vast glaciers, rugged landscapes, and dramatic alpine scenery.
Over seven days, the route crosses Switzerland and Italy on runnable mountain trails, climbing high passes, traversing beneath glaciers, and flowing through remote alpine valleys and flower-filled meadows.
Far from the busier Alpine circuits, the Tour des Combins offers a quieter and more authentic mountain experience, with nights spent in welcoming refuges and traditional alpine villages. A true hidden gem for trail runners seeking big mountain days and spectacular scenery.
Not sure whether you're ready? No problem. Take our Grand Tour des Combins Trail Running 'Readiness' test.
Grand Tour des Combins Trail Running 'Readiness' test
Learn more. Download our guide here.
DOWNLOAD PDFEnter your details to download the Self Guided Trail Running: Grand Tour des Combins in 7 Days brochure
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The Tour des Combins is ideal for trail runners comfortable covering long distances over multiple consecutive days while carrying a running pack. The route follows mountain trails through consistently hilly alpine terrain, with daily stages between 15-25kms often involving over 1,000 m of ascent and descent. Strong fitness and confidence moving efficiently in the mountains are essential.
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 Trail Running 'Readiness' test.
Grand Tour des Combins Trail Running 'Readiness' test
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Duration
7 Days
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Start Location
Mauvoisin, Switzerland
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Date(s)
July - September
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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
From €1200
Adventure Overview
See real footage of previous expeditions
Grand Tour Des Combins
01:02Beth tackles the stunning and quiet Grand Tour Des Combins. A stunning trek through Switzerland and Italy.
What We Do
00:51Because life's better when you spend time in the mountains!
Meet The Team
01:48Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP
Please note: Luggage transfers aren’t available on this trip, so you’ll need to carry your kit with you throughout the route.
For the full downloadable Grand Tour des Combins Trek kit list please click here.
Trail Running Shoes
Trail Running Z Poles
Foldable pole in three parts. Something like; Black Diamond Distance FLZ poles
Trail Running Glasses
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
An amazing 10-day hike over beautiful terrain. The "Grand Tour des Combins" self guided hike I did had some short (3 hour) and some long (6 hour) walking days. Lots of elevation changes. One thousand metre days being pretty common. You are walking above tree line most of the time, with steep granite mountains above you. Views for miles. If you are a fit walker/hiker, I would definitely recommend this hike.
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGEÂ
The trip 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?
- 6 Nights accommodation
- 6 Breakfasts
- 6 Dinners
- Planning and reservations
- Navigational App
- 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 (not available on this trip)
- Additional nights before, during and after trip (can be added on request)
- Travel insurance (required)
Adventure like a local
The Adventure Base Difference
Born & Bred in the Alps
With an office at the foot of Mont Blanc in Chamonix, we help you Adventure like a local.
Customer Focused
We don't just want you for one trip, we want you for lots! We work extremely hard to earn that right.
Don't take our word for it
Our clients do the talking. Check out their latest reviews and see what makes their trips so special.
Guaranteed Departures
If you can book it, we'll run it even if it's just for you. You shouldn't have to wait to get excited for your trip.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATION
We know the importance of having comfortable accommodation on this trip. After a long day in the mountains 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)
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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.
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Duration
5 Nights
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Internet
Not included
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Beds
Shared Rooming
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Food
Half Board
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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.
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Duration
1 Nights
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Internet
Not included
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Beds
Shared Rooming
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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: 7 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.
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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 - Great St. Bernard Pass
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.
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.
21km / 1881m up / 1039m down / 8 hours -
Day 5:
Great St. Bernard Pass - Cabane La Tsissette
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 variant offers a quieter path cutting out the town of La Foult, perfect for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. You'll pass by pristine mountain lakes reflecting the surrounding peaks, providing ideal spots to rest and take in the serene beauty.
Approaching Cabane La Tsissette, nestled amidst towering peaks, you'll be greeted with warm hospitality and hearty alpine cuisine. Spend the evening soaking in the tranquility, with the Milky Way painting the night sky above.
12.6km / 814m up / 1285m down / 6 hours -
Day 6:
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 7:
Cabane Mille - Mauvoisin
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.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.
22kms / 1353m up / 1977m down / 9 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
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Self Guided Trail Running: Grand Tour des Combins in 7 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?
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Level A
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€1150.00
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July - September
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Level B
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July - September
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Level B
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€1495.00
Austria, Silvretta Ski Tour
The Silvretta is a classic and a favourite for a reason. This tour offers a mix of glaciated terrain, great huts, and stunning peaks — but without pushing into high-stress technical territory. The ascents are steady, the descents are fun, and the overall pace is manageable for those stepping into the world of hut-to-hut touring.
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March
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Level B
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€1950.00
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.
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July - September
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Level C
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€3590.00
Austria, Otztal Ski Tour
The Ötztal Ski Tour is a stunning journey through the wild Tyrol region of the Alps, linking together beautiful Austrian and Italian mountain huts and peaks. It’s ideal for those seeking a challenging multi-day ‘hut-to-hut’ ski adventure. Expect full days of ski touring with rewarding ascents, enjoyable descents, and cozy, often more comfortable huts than you might find elsewhere in the Alps.
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March
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Level C
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€2110.00
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...
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June - July
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Level C
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€2760.00
Alpine Haute Route Ski Tour
The Haute Route ski tour has deservedly earned its reputation for being one of the world's great ski adventures. Embark on an epic 6 day journey crossing spectacular glaciated terrain from Chamonix to Zermatt. Love your skiing? This is a must for you!
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March - April
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Level D
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€2340.00
Climb the Triple Crown of the Alps
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.
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July - August
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Level E
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€13955.00
Bernese Oberland Ski Tour in the Swiss Alps
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 for expert ski tourers with strong endurance. It features long days on huge glaciers, remote huts, and big, wild terrain — a true adventure for seasoned riders.
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March
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Level E
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€2350.00
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?
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July - August
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Level E
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€4830.00
