Self Guided: Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise
Self Guided: Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise
Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise 4 Day Trek
Set off on the 4 Day Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise, a stunning circular trek through France’s oldest national park. Follow peaceful alpine trails around the Vanoise range, where every turn reveals something new – from wildflower meadows and rocky passes to the shimmering glaciers that give the route its name. This condensed 4-day version covers the full loop with slightly longer days, perfect for experienced hikers or trail runners looking for a more challenging pace. Experience the quiet beauty of lesser-travelled paths, stay in welcoming mountain refuges, and connect with the authentic charm of the Alps. With its full circuit and rich mountain character, the Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise offers a rewarding adventure and memories to last a lifetime.
Want to help shape the future of epic mountain experiences? Join our Trailblazers crew — test new routes, share your feedback, and be part of our inner circle! Find out more here.
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Duration
4 Days
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Start Location
Pralognan-la-Vanoise
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Date(s)
July - September
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Price
From €360
Adventure Snapshot
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LA VANOISE NATIONAL PARK / 3 NIGHTS / 4 DAYS
The Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise — Alpine Beauty in Four Days
Discover the essence of the French Alps on a four-day adventure through the spectacular Vanoise National Park — France’s oldest and one of its most unspoiled. This shorter version of the classic circuit captures the heart of the full Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise, offering a perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and solitude in just a few unforgettable days.
Though shorter in duration, this route doesn’t skimp on reward. You’ll wander through flower-filled meadows, trace the edges of ancient glaciers, and climb mountain passes that open up to sweeping views across the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys. Unlike the busier trails of the Tour du Mont Blanc, the Vanoise offers quiet paths where you can still feel the solitude of the high mountains and spot wildlife like ibex, marmots, and bearded vultures in their natural habitat.
The Vanoise trek also carries a deeper story. Once home to over a hundred glaciers, the massif still boasts around 40 to 50 named ice formations today — among them the Glacier de la Vanoise, de Gébroulaz, de Chavière, and de la Grande Casse. While many are retreating, their presence remains powerful, carving dramatic landscapes and feeding alpine streams that bring life to the valleys below.
Each night, you’ll rest in mountain refuges that define the spirit of this region — some perched on rocky ridges with views of glaciers, others tucked among forests or pastures. Expect hearty Savoyard meals, shared stories with fellow trekkers, and that special mountain quiet that settles in as the sun sets over the peaks.
Perfect for strong hikers or runners, this condensed version of the Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise delivers all the highlights — the glaciers, the wildlife, the sense of space and adventure — in a shorter, balanced journey through one of France’s most captivating mountain regions.
Learn more. Download our guide here.
DOWNLOAD PDFEnter your details to download the Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise 4 Day Trek brochure
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise is perfect for strong hillwalkers and trail runners looking to cover more ground each day. The route follows classic trail through rolling and hilly terrain. You can expect to do up to and over 1000m ascent and descent per day with 20kms. It’s a rewarding challenge for those ready to move efficiently through the mountains.
This condensed 4-day version covers the full loop with slightly longer days, ideal for hikers short on time—especially those traveling from within Europe—or for experienced hikers and trail runners seeking a more challenging pace. The trails have gradual ascents and descents that are steady and runnable rather than steep like other alpine hikes such as the Tour du Mont Blanc or the Haute Route.
Discover a lesser-known but equally stunning alternative to the Tour du Mont Blanc. This route offers a mix of landscapes that change at every turn — from alpine meadows and glaciers to rugged mountain passes.
You’ll hike through France’s oldest national park, alive with diverse wildlife and plant life, and get the sense of truly circling the glaciers of the Vanoise range — though many are sadly shrinking fast. It’s a shorter trek than some of the classics, but still a full, rewarding loop around a mountain range — there’s something special about finishing where you began.
You’ll stay in a series of welcoming mountain refuges that perfectly capture the spirit of the Vanoise. Each has its own charm — from alpine refuges surrounded by glaciers and rugged peaks to cozy huts nestled among meadows and larch forests. Comfort levels vary, but all provide warm hospitality, hearty meals and stunning views.
Want to help shape the future of epic mountain experiences? Join our Trailblazers crew — test new routes, share your feedback, and be part of our inner circle! Find out more here.
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Duration
4 Days
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Start Location
Pralognan-la-Vanoise
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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 €360
Adventure Overview
See real footage of previous expeditions
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 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 Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise 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 Pralognan-la-Vanoise in the La Vanoise National Park between Savoie and Auvergne Rhone Alpes. We recommend to arrive the night before and overnight in Pralognan-la-Vanoise. If you would like us to book your accommodation for the first night please ask in advance.
What's Included?
- 3 Nights accommodation
- 3 Breakfasts
- 3 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
- 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 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.
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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
3 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 Glaciers
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: Pralognan-la-Vanoise
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:
Pralogan-la-Vanoise - Refuge d'Arpont
The trek begins in Pralognan-la-Vanoise, climbing steadily toward the Col de la Vanoise. The ascent is steep from the start, following ski pistes and mountain trails through alpine meadows and forests. After passing the Refuge des Barmettes, you’ll cross the stunning Lac des Vaches, famous for its stepping-stone path and reflections of the surrounding peaks. It’s here that you’ll spot your first glacier.
Next, you reach the Refuge du Col de la Vanoise, perched beneath the Grande Casse, the highest peak in the Vanoise National Park at 3855m. This refuge serves as a short refreshment stop, perfect for a quick snack or hot drink before continuing.
The trail then undulates along the slopes, passing by lakes and streams as you venture deeper into the national park, here there is no service and the scenery feels truly remote. You’ll spot a few more glaciers in the distance, including the largest in the region.
The day concludes at the Refuge de l’Arpont, a simple yet idyllic mountain hut. The showers are basic, but the beds are comfortable, the common room offers incredible views of the mountains, and the rooftop terrace is unbeatable for relaxing and soaking up the alpine scenery after a long day on the trail.
22kms / 1500m up / 550m down / 9 hours -
Day 2:
Refuge d'Arpont - Plan d'Amont
The trail from Refuge de l’Arpont begins by passing a spectacular waterfall, setting the tone for a day! The landscape shifts constantly, from rugged alpine slopes and rocky paths to soft grassy pastures and gentle valleys.
As you approach the latter part of the stage, the trail passes several refuges and alpine restaurants, perfect spots to pause for a delicious tart or a coffee on a sunny terrace. This section feels lively and more accessible compared to the quieter, more remote stages earlier in the trek.
The day concludes at Plan d’Amont, a beautiful mountain area surrounded by wildflowers and overlooking a series of sparkling alpine lakes. It’s a peaceful and quaint place to spend the night, full of character, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable views from the terrace.
16kms / 750m up / 700m down / 8 hours -
Day 3:
Plan d’Amont - Refuge de Roc de la Pêche
The day begins by crossing the dams, followed by a short but steep ascent that quickly brings you onto the higher alpine plateaus. From there, the trail winds through lush pastures and traverses the mountains before gradually ascending toward the Col de Chavière, the highest point of the trek at 2796m. On a clear day, you’re rewarded with views of Mont Blanc. Shortly afterward, you’ll pass through the famous “sea of cairns” - don’t forget to add one of your own as you go!
A brief detour takes you past the Refuge de Peclet Polset, a convenient spot for a quick snack or refreshment. As you continue, the scenery transforms dramatically: the valley opens up, the landscape becomes lush and green, and for a moment it almost feels like Scotland. Passing a local cheese farm is a reminder that you are very much in the French Alps!
The trail then follows a 4x4 track to the Refuge du Roc de la Pêche, a luxurious mountain chalet and the perfect place to conclude today's trek. This standout refuge features modern comforts including a games room, two saunas, a cinema room, an outdoor jacuzzi, and exquisite wood carvings throughout the building. The food is exceptional, and a hot drink is a perfect treat after a long day out on the trail.
26kms / 1290m up / 16000m down / 9 hours -
Day 4:
Refuge de Roc de la Pêche - Pralognan-la-Vanoise
The final day is a short and all downhill, offering a gentle end to your trek. You’ll follow the river as it winds through the valley, passing small mountain hamlets along the way.
The last few hundred meters lead you back to Pralognan-la-Vanoise, completing the full loop and bringing you full circle to where your adventure began - a satisfying and scenic conclusion to the Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise.
8kms / 0m up / 500m down / 2 hours
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
TDGV: WHAT IS IT?
The Tour de la Vanoise is a multi-day hiking route through the stunning Vanoise National Park in the French Alps. Read more
The Tour de la Vanoise is a multi-day hiking route through the stunning Vanoise National Park in the French Alps. It offers breathtaking mountain views, glaciers, and alpine wildlife along well-marked trails, making it perfect for those starting out with multi-day hikes or trying a longer trek for the first time. 80kms / 4000m+ Elevation / Highest Point 2796m.
TDGV: HOW DO I GET THERE?
From Geneva: Geneva Airport (GVA) is the most common international gateway. From here, you can reach Pralognan-la-Vanoise via taxi or Read more
From Geneva: Geneva Airport (GVA) is the most common international gateway. From here, you can reach Pralognan-la-Vanoise via taxi or train. From Geneva Center, take a train to Chambéry (1h), then transfer to Moutiers (1h), and finally a taxi (€120, 1-4 people) or bus to Pralognan-la-Vanoise (40mins).
Direct taxi transfer: €460 each way 1-4 people (2.5 hours).
Rental car: 2.5 hour drive from Geneva – depending on your pre and post trek plans this could be a better option.
Recommended: Consider staying a night in Pralognan-la-Vanoise if arriving the same day as your first day trekking.
For more information: see here
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise 4 Day Trek 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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March
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Level B
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€1950.00
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July - September
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Level C
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Austria, Otztal Ski Tour
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March
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Level C
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€2030.00
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July - August
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Level E
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Climb the Matterhorn
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July - August
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Level E
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€4725.00
Ready to Chase the Glaciers?
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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