Trail Running
Self-Guided Trail Running: Tour du Mont Blanc in 4 Days
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a legendary 170 km trail looping through France, Italy, and Switzerland around the towering Mont Blanc. It’s one of the most iconic mountain routes in the world — and a serious challenge for experienced trail runners. This 4-day self-guided version is built for elite-level endurance and grit. It's tough, it's wild, and it's worth every step.
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Duration
3 Nights, 4 Days
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Start Location
Les Houches, Chamonix
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Date(s)
July - August
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Price
From €1260
Adventure Snapshot
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RUN THROUGH FRANCE, SWITZERLAND & ITALY / 3 NIGHTS / 4 DAYS
This 3-night / 4-day self-guided trail running tour is a chance to experience the full Tour du Mont Blanc at pace — crossing three countries, covering big distances, and soaking up the raw beauty of the Alps as you move fast and light around western Europe’s highest peak.
Over four big days, you’ll run beneath towering glaciers, through high alpine meadows, and across remote cols linking France, Italy, and Switzerland. Expect wild trails, punchy climbs, technical descents, and jaw-dropping views around every corner — this is one of the world’s most iconic mountain routes, reimagined for runners.
We know what matters after a long day on the trail — a hot shower, a proper bed, and your gear waiting for you. That’s why this trip includes private rooms wherever possible and daily luggage transfers, so you can focus on running with just your daypack. No hauling heavy loads, no cramped dorms — just clean, comfortable spaces to rest, refuel, and get ready to do it all again the next day.
Learn more. Download our guide here.
DOWNLOAD PDFEnter your details to download the Self-Guided Trail Running: Tour du Mont Blanc in 4 Days brochure
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
This version of the Tour du Mont Blanc is built for highly fit and experienced trail runners. You’ll need strong mountain legs, solid endurance, and confidence moving quickly over technical alpine terrain — day after day.
Expect 30–50 km per day with over 2,000m of ascent and descent, on rugged, often remote trails. This is not a casual run — it’s a full-on physical and mental challenge across serious mountain terrain.
Thanks to daily luggage transfers, you’ll move light with only the essentials in your pack, giving you the freedom to focus on running efficiently and enjoying the epic landscapes around Mont Blanc.
That said, there are options each day to reduce the distance or intensity if needed. Strategic shortcuts — like taking a gondola to bypass a steep descent, catching a shuttle bus between trailheads, or skipping a section of trail during poor weather — are available throughout the route.
While this itinerary is designed for strong runners looking to cover big distances, having these alternatives in your back pocket adds flexibility and helps keep the experience enjoyable, even when fatigue kicks in or conditions change.
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Duration
3 Nights, 4 Days
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Start Location
Les Houches, Chamonix
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Date(s)
July - August
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Guide Ratio
Self Guided
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Ability
Level CLevel C
You have a fair amount of experience climbing, hiking or skiing more technical terrain. You’re comfortable on sustained adventures and you call yourself a ‘hardened’ adventurer. You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it there' attitude.
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Price
From €1260
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 Trail Running kit list please click here.
Trail Running Shoes
Trail Running Telescopic Poles
Something like; Black Diamond Distance FLZ poles
Trail Running Glasses
Softshell Jacket
Light technical jacket, ideally with a hood.
Lightweight fleece
Something 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
We had a spectacular trip - and Adventure Base was a big reason why. The staff was proactive before the trip, providing advice on packing and IMPORTANTLY on weather and proper equipment (ie micro-spikes and poles) to make us safe and comfortable. All the staff were knowledgeable and responsive to all our many questions during the Tour. It was like having a personal guide OFF the mountain - a prefect solution as we wanted to hike on our own but wanted expert advice. thank you!
The direct, face to face meetings with both Beth Gavoille and Charlie Krarup left me feeling that they each genuinely wanted to understand my needs, wants and concerns and would do whatever they could to assist me as much as possible. I never felt that I was simply a customer in a financial transaction with them but rather that they authentically cared about me. You truly felt that you were being listened to.
We had an amazing experience planning the TMB with Adventure Base. Everything went well before and during our trip. Great support from their side.
7 Day Self-guided TBM was an amazing trip. AB planned everything exceptionally well. No issues. I will use them again for my next trip.
5 stars for the Adventure Base team! We are so pleased with our self-guided 9-day Tour du Mont Blanc trek through Adventure Base. The company had clear communication with us the whole way- from making our itinerary, checking in before with left the US, checking in once we got to Chamonix, and then while we were on the trail as well. They helped us chose a different route mid hike, making us feel safe and supported. They also did a lot of small things that went a long way- holding our luggage + dropping it off at our hotel to be ready for us once we were done hiking, providing us with digital + paper maps, a mini trail first aid kit and buffs. We are so thankful to have used them!
The Adventure Base team was a complete pleasure to work with - friendly and knowledgeable. The team was super responsive from start to finish (from planning phase and throughout our trek) providing great advice, logistics and support. We will use AB again - 5 stars!!
We did the TMB with adventure base- family with 2 teenagers. We honestly could not have asked for a better organised self guided tour- the accommodation, bag transfers, food and the communication by Adventure base were amazing. Only trumped by Mother Nature- what a beautiful and bucket list walk. Olly, Beth and Virginia were superb and we highly recommend this tour company.
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGEÂ
The trek begins in Les Houches in the Chamonix valley. Typically people will arrive the night before and overnight either in Les Houches or overnight in Chamonix and take the train from Chamonix to Les Houches in the morning to start the hike. If you would like us to book your accommodation for the first night please ask.
What's Included?
- 3 Nights accommodation
- 3 Breakfasts
- 3 Dinners
- Planning and reservations
- Detailed itinerary and GPX tracks
- 24/7 Support communication with our Chamonix based team
- Daily luggage transfers
What's not Included?
- Flights
- Airport transfers
- In-resort travel (bus / lifts / trains)
- Lunches, snacks and drinks
- 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 on the trails it's vital to have a comfortable bed and good food to enjoy in a scenic location. We've handpicked accommodation along the way that we're sure you're going to love.
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ON THE TREK
Most of the accommodations on this trip will be in private rooms, wherever available. All of them are accessible for daily luggage transfers, so your bags will be waiting for you at the end of each day.
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Duration
3 Nights
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Internet
Not included
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Beds
Private Room
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Food
3 Breakfasts + 3 Dinners
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 point: Les Houches
End point: Montroc Train Station
Length: 4 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:
Les Houches - Les Chapieux
Kick off the day by catching the Chamonix Valley bus to Les Houches. You have two options to start the day: either follow the path up to Col du Voza on foot or take the Bellevue cable car for a quicker ascent to the Bellevue Plateau (Distance saved: 5.2kms / 818m ascent). For those who want to stop at the Archway and official starting point, hop off at the Les Houches Marie bus stop. If you'd rather start with the Bellevue gondola, get off at the Bellevue bus stop instead.
From the top of Bellevue, it’s a short and well-marked trail to reconnect with the Col du Tricot variant trail. This variant is only to be taken in good weather conditions. If the weather is less than perfect you should follow the lower trail via Le Champel.
via Le Champel: From Col de Voza make your way down towards Bionnassay. From here follow the signs for Le Champel, crossing over the bridge over the Torrent de Bionnassay along the way. At Le Champel turn left onto the trail that leads you to Chalets de Miage, traversing the hillside. Once you reach the Chalets you can stop for refreshments if you wish before continuing up over Auberge du Truc. From Auberge du Truc follow the sign for Les Contamines, passing by Macherey and Les Granges de la Frasse.
via Col du Tricot: From Bellevue plateau cross the railway tracks and follow the path through wide alpine meadows with incredible views of the Bionnassay glacier. Soon, you’ll reach the iconic Himalayan suspension bridge—an exciting crossing with epic scenery all around. From here, it’s a steady climb to the grassy saddle of Col du Tricot, where you're rewarded with stunning views over the Miage Valley and across to Col du Bonhomme. You’ll spot Refuge Miage below, and maybe even the smugglers' route toward Refuge Plan Glacier to your left. The descent from the col is steep—take it slow and use your poles. Once down in the valley, it’s just five-minutes to reach Refuge Miage. The trail climbs gently again, leading you out of the Miage Valley and up towards Auberge du Truc. From Auberge du Truc follow the sign for Les Contamines, passing by Macherey and Les Granges de la Frasse.
From Les Contamines, continue along the river to Notre Dame de la Gorge, where the trail heads back into the wild. If you're running in July or August, you can save your legs a bit by hopping on the shuttle (navette) from outside the Tourist Office to the chapel (Distance saved: 5kms / 1-2 hrs of road walking).
At Notre Dame de la Gorge, take a moment to admire the beautiful chapel nestled beside the rushing water before starting the climb. The trail here is steep and dramatic—an ancient Roman road made of stone slabs that winds its way up through the forest, often running alongside the roaring gorge. After crossing the old Roman bridge and soaking in views of the gorge below, you’ll continue your ascent for about an hour to reach Refuge Nant Borrant.
From Refuge Nant Borrant, the trail continues upward past Refuge de la Balme and onto the more rugged terrain leading to the Col du Bonhomme (2,329m). After the pass, there’s a steady traverse with spectacular alpine views before the final push to Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2,483m). From Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme the route descends steadily from the refuge to the valley floor and the small hamlet of Les Chapieux.
Approximate time and distances:
35.0 km / 3,157 m / 2,608 m / 8-10 hours
*Option to save 10kms / 800m elevation with shortcuts. -
Day 2:
Les Chapieux - Courmayeur
From Les Chapieux, you have a choice: Run: Follow the river upstream for about 1 hour to Refuge des Mottets. Shuttle Bus (Navette): Save some energy and catch the bus. You can take it all the way to the Refuge Mottets parking area, then walk 5–10 minutes downhill to the refuge. Or, hop off earlier at Ville des Glaciers to visit the local cheese farm, then follow the gentle TMB trail down to the refuge (Distance saved: to Ville des Glaciers 4.5kms / to Parking des Mottets: 6kms).
From Refuge des Mottets, begin the steady climb up to the Col de la Seigne (2,516m), marking the border between France and Italy. It’s a gradual ascent on a well-defined trail, and a rewarding one—at the top, the views open up dramatically and Mont Blanc comes back into sight.
From the col, it’s an easy descent down to Rifugio Elisabetta, perched on a rocky spur between the Glacier d’Estellette and Glacier de la Lée Blanche. The trail then continues gently downhill, following a wide, straight stretch of old Roman road through the Vallée de la Lée Blanche. After about an hour, you’ll reach the photogenic Cabane Combal, a charming A-frame refuge set in an open valley framed by rugged peaks.
From this junction near Cabane Combal you have another choice: Shuttle Bus: From the junction, it’s 2–3 km to La Visaille, where you can catch the Val Veny bus to Courmayeur and skip the final section of the day (Distance saved: From La Visaille 8.9kms / 635m ascent / 1390m descent). Walk: The trail then climbs steadily out of the Val Veny floor to a high spur from Mont Favre. Looking back, you’ll see the massive moraine of Glacier Miage dwarfing Cabane Combal, and on a clear day, views stretching back to Col de la Seigne.
From there, the trail traces the south side of Val Veny, rising and falling along the mountainside with stunning views of Monte Bianco and jagged peaks across the valley. You’ll then enter the Courmayeur ski area, following a scenic traverse until signs for Plan Checrouit point you toward a steady descent into Courmayeur.
During peak season (Aug–Sept), you can skip the tough descent from Rifugio Maison Vieille by taking the chair lift and cable car to Dolonne, just a 10-minute stroll from town—a great option if your legs are tired or you're keen to relax in Courmayeur a little sooner. (Chairlift: Distance saved: 1.5kms and 270m descent / Gondola: Distance saved: 2.5kms and 500m descent)
Approximate time and distances:
29.6 km / 1496 m / 1839 m / 7-9 hours
*Option to save upto 15kms / 700m up / 1390m down with shortcuts. -
Day 3:
Courmayeur - Relais d'Arpette
From Courmayeur there are two options: Shuttle Bus: You can take the Val Ferret shuttle bus from Courmayeur PMB (place Monte Bianco) to Arp Nouvaz (Distance saved: to Arp Nouvaz (end of the valley - start of Grand Col Ferret) 17.5kms / 1236m+ of ascent). Run: From Courmayeur head toward the Church of Saint Pantaleon and follow the uphill road, Strada del Villair, all the way to the car park where the TMB trail begins. From here, it’s a steep climb through the forest to Rifugio Bertone—perfect for an Italian coffee with a view.
From Bertone you have two options - both options bring you to Rifugio Bonatti: via Col Sapin variant: If the weather’s good and it’s after early season (post–July 7th), you can take the Col Sapin variant. For those really looking to push themselves it offers quieter trails and jaw-dropping scenery—well worth the effort, with unreal views of the southern buttress of the Mont Blanc Massif. via Main Trial: From Bertone, the main trail continues along a gently undulating balcony path toward Rifugio Bonatti.
From Rifugio Bonatti, the trail climbs gently for a short distance before crossing a wooden bridge over the river. You’ll then rejoin the balcony path, continuing to traverse the mountainside with open views of the Val Ferret below. The trail then descends to the valley floor near Chalet Val Ferret. This is a good spot to regroup, grab a bite and put your feet in the river before the tackling the Grand Col Ferret.
From the Grand Col Ferret (2,537m), marking the border between Italy and Switzerland, you'll descend into the Swiss side of the Val Ferret. The trail winds down gently with sweeping views before reaching Gîte Alpage de la Peule, a traditional working dairy farm. From here it’s not far to the hamlet of Ferret.
From here you can choose to: Shuttle Bus: Either from Ferret or La Fouly (a further 2kms) to Champex Lac (Distance saved to Champex: 14.8kms/ 578m ascent.) Run: From La Fouly, follow the TMB trail down the valley, staying left of the river to Praz de Fort. Cross to the right side, continue to Issert, then cross back to the left and follow signs up to Champex. Pass the lake on your left and head up the road, turning left at the sign for Relais d'Arpette.
Approximate time and distances:
48.7 km / 2432 m / 2008 m / 9-11 hours
*Option to save up to 35kms / 1400m up / 1000m down with shortcuts. -
Day 4:
Relais d'Arpette - Montroc Train Station
From Relais d’Arpette you have two options that take you to Col de Balme: Fenetre d’Arpette & Les Grands Variant: For adventurous hikers, this variant is one of the toughest and most technical parts of the TMB. It demands focus — but if you start early and get good weather, the views and sense of accomplishment at the top are well worth it. The two variants marry up at Chalet du Glacier where you can continue on the Les Grands variant which is a lesser-known TMB route, but well worth the effort. It climbs above the tree line with stunning views of the Trient Glacier, then follows a scenic high trail around Les Grands Otanes before rejoining the main route at Col de Balme.
Bovine Route: The trail passes by Plan d'Au before climbing steadily to the Alpage de Bovine. From here the trail cuts around the mountain with amazing views out over the Valais, before descending to Col de la Forclaz, and then to Trient, a cute village of no more than a handful of houses. Pass through Trient and head up towards the Col de Balme.
From Col de Balme you have another choice: Le Tour Gondola: Le Tour Autannes Chairlift & Charamillon Gondola - If you choose this route, expect a 20-minute walk along the road from Le Tour to Montroc. You can also just take the bus from Le Tour to Montroc, rather than continuing on foot (Distance saved: 2.8kms / 720m down). Walk: From the Swiss side, head down into France towards Col des Posettes. Climb the ridge to L’Aiguillette des Posettes (2201m), where you’ll get great views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley. Continue along the ridge, but avoid it in bad weather due to lightning risk. Descend steeply to Tré-le-Champ, then follow the trail to reach Montroc Train Station.
Approximate time and distances:
28.3km / 2345 m up / 2614 m down
*Option to save upto 7kms / 260m up / 1090 m down with shortcuts.
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Self-Guided Trail Running: Tour du Mont Blanc in 4 Days trip is rated Level C, for accomplished adventurers 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
More your 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
Think you've got this?
This trip is at this 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?
Intro to Trail Running – Chamonix
An opportunity to build confidence, learn the fundamentals of trail running, and experience the world-famous trails of Chamonix. This course is designed for beginners or road runners looking to transition to the trails. You’ll develop essential skills such as efficient uphill and downhill technique, pacing, gear selection, and how to stay safe in the mountains. All of this while exploring some of the most breathtaking terrain in Chamonix. Led by experienced Chloë Lanthier, this introduction balances practical learning with scenic runs — giving you the confidence and motivation to step into the world of trail running.
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September
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Level A
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€850.00
Haute Route Trek Guided 6 Days
The Haute Route trek is one of the world’s great multi-day treks. The route links two world-famous mountains, Mont Blanc in France and the Matterhorn in Switzerland. Enjoy this 6 day version of the trek from Arolla to Zermatt.
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July - September
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Level B
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€2300.00
Dolomites Alta Via 1 Guided Highlights
Discover the Alta Via 1 Trek – a spectacular journey through the heart of Italy’s Dolomites. This iconic trail winds through some of the most stunning UNESCO-listed alpine landscapes in the world. We’ve crafted this itinerary for those who want to experience the best of the Alta Via 1 on a shorter adventure. Perfect for hikers short on time but big on adventure, this guided trek packs in the highlights without skimping on the views. Over just a few unforgettable days, you’ll soak up dramatic peaks, scenic trails, and cozy mountain rifugios — all with expert guidance and none of the stress. If you’re after a high-impact trekking experience in a short window, this trip is made for you.
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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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€3450.00
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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€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...
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June - July
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Level C
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€2650.00
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 D
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€12900.00
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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€2250.00
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.
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July - August
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Level D
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€4350.00
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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€2030.00
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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€4450.00
READY TO RUN THE TMB IN 4 DAYS?
We hope you've found all the information you need above, but if not don't hesitate to get in touch. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.
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