Trip Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Mont Blanc region with this unforgettable trip with AdventureWomen!  

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe, standing at an elevation of 4,808 meters (15,774 feet) above sea level. It is located on the border between France, Italy, and Switzerland, with its summit lying within the French territory. Mont Blanc is part of the Mont Blanc Massif range and is known for its challenging climbing routes. 

Your adventure begins in Geneva, Switzerland, from where you’ll be seamlessly transferred to Chamonix, France, for a warm and delicious welcoming dinner. 

Welcome to Mont Blanc!

Marvel at the majestic Aiguille du Midi after a thrilling cable ride, then hike the Balcon du Nord trail for a breathtaking view of the Mer de Glace glacier. The next day, traverse the Col du Tricot to Les Contamines-Montjoie, relishing great views of the Chamonix valley along the way. 

On day 4, experience the allure of the baroque Chapel Notre Dame de la Gorge, ascent to the Col du Bonhomme before reaching Bourg Saint-Maurice for a restful night.  

Courmayeur and Champex-Lac

Then, embark on a cross-country journey to Italy via the Col de la Seigne. Descend into the enchanting Val Veni, arriving in the charming town of Courmayeur. The next day, explore Courmayeur’s gems, including a visit to a local winery, where you’ll indulge in delicious wines and enjoy a delightful cooking demonstration. 

On day 7, continue your trek, ascending to Rifugio Bertone, descending to Arp Nouva. The next day, climb to Pré de Bar, conquering the Grand Col Ferret—the highest pass of the Tour du Mont Blanc—before reaching Champex-Lac in Switzerland. 

Embark on the scenic Bovine Way on day 9, passing the Col de la Forclaz, before returning to Chamonix.  

Conclude this remarkable journey with a hike through the Aiguilles Rouge nature preserve and a heartwarming farewell dinner. 

As your adventure concludes, savor the memories and breathtaking views one last time before transferring to Geneva for your return journey home. This meticulously crafted itinerary promises an immersive exploration of the Mont Blanc region, blending outdoor adventures with cultural discoveries and culinary delights. 

Main Attractions

  • Experience the thrill of being at high altitudes and enjoy stunning alpine scenery
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Chamonix region and the serene Les Contamines-Montjoie
  • Experience the diversity of landscapes as you cross international borders and explore the picturesque Val Veni
  • Combine culinary exploration with challenging hikes, culminating incrossing the Grand Col Ferret

What You'll See and Do

  • Cable Car Ride
  • Cooking Class
  • Cultural Exploration
  • Hiking
  • Historical Sites
  • Local Delicacies
  • Sightseeing
  • Walking
  • Wine Tasting
  • Women-To-Women Exchanges
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

The AdventureWomen itineraries are subject to change depending on the chosen departure date. To view a specific departure itinerary, simply click on the "Browse Detailed Itinerary" button above and select your date.

Day 1

Arrive in Geneva, Switzerland

Welcome to Geneva!

During your adventure, you’ll get to know your expert guide, who will help you discover Mont Blanc. You’ll meet other incredible individuals on your journey. They will help make your experience a fun and personally fulfilling adventure and will cheer you on as you step outside your comfort zone, embracing new challenges in your own way!

Arrive at the Geneva airport (GVA) in Switzerland by noon.

A group transfer from the airport to the hotel will be provided when most guests arrive (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at other times are available for purchase.

Check-in at your hotel. In the late afternoon, attend an orientation about your upcoming Mont-Blanc adventure.

Enjoy a lively welcome dinner where you can connect with your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and discover the unique reasons each woman in your group is excited to explore the Mont Blanc.

Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Pointe Isabelle (or similar)

Day 2

Chamonix, France

After breakfast and a short walk to the cable car station, start the ascend to the top of the French Alps: l’Aiguille du Midi. This ride offers a breathtaking experience with its stunning panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains. At the summit, you can explore the observation decks and tunnels, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the high-altitude alpine landscape.

Descent to the middle station and start your first hike. The Balcon du Nord trail in Chamonix offers a scenic adventure through lush alpine terrain. As you traverse this stunning route, you will be treated to magnificent views of the Mont Blanc Massif, glaciers, and the Chamonix Valley, making it an unforgettable trek for nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking an immersive mountain experience. It is also a good hike to get in shape before the trekking starts. Enjoy a picnic lunch with your group along the way.

The hike ends at Montenvers, a stunning location in the French Alps, offering breathtaking views of the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) glacier and the surrounding mountains. If time permits, explore the ice cave before traveling down to Chamonix by train. Take a short walk back to the hotel.

Enjoy dinner on your own tonight. Explore Chamonix’s rich restaurant scene or savor the ambiance of your hotel’s bar and bistro.

Today’s hike is approximately 3.5 miles (5.7 km), 2.5 hours, and 450 feet (120 m) of elevation gain, 1,350 feet (450 m) of elevation loss.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch

Overnight: Hotel Pointe Isabelle (or similar)

Day 3

Les Contamines, France

This morning after breakfast, set off for your first day of hiking. Take the public bus to the cable car station and ride to Bellevue. From Bellevue, on a clear day, enjoy great views of the Chamonix Valley and the Mont Blanc Range.

Begin your hike to Les Contamines. Hike past the Bionassay glacier and the rolling slopes of the Col du Tricot. Then, descend into the Valley of Les Contamines-Montjoie. End the hike by arriving at the hotel located in the heart of the classic village of Les Contamines. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.

Enjoy dinner as a group tonight and enjoy a well-deserved rest for the night.

Today’s hike is approximately 14 miles (22 km), 7 hours, 2,950 feet (900 m) of elevation gain, 4,265 feet (1,300 m) of elevation loss. At the end of the hike is a steep descent before it goes up again to the hotel.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel La Chemenaz (or similar)

Day 4

Bourg Saint Maurice, France

After breakfast, it’s time to hike to the wonderful Baroque Chapel Notre Dame de la Gorge. Then, climb up along an old Roman ridge and past an original Roman bridge. Ascent to the Col Du Bonhomme. After the pass, the road comes down to a small hidden valley and descends through narrow gorges called “the Priest’s Path” to a mountain pasture where you will meet the famous “tarine” cows.

Note that, today, you will tackle steep uphill and downhill routes on rough terrain; this part of the tour can be very challenging but accomplishing the Col du Bonhomme hike makes the challenges worthwhile. At the end of the hike, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel.

Enjoy dinner as a group at a local restaurant tonight.

Today’s hike is approximately 11 miles (17 km), 7 hours, 4,400 feet (1,340 m) of elevation gain, 3,050 feet (930 m) of elevation loss. The hike starts with a steep ascent.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel L’autentic (or similar)

Day 5

Col de la Seigne to Courmayeur, Italy

Today’s journey takes you from France to Italy. After breakfast, take a private transfer to today’s starting point. Climb through open pastures and snowfield to Col de la Seigne (8,254 feet) and the border with Italy while admiring the amazing view over the southwest side of the Mont Blanc range. Pass by picturesque glacier lakes while descending into beautiful Val Veni. This 45-minute descent will bring you to the small hamlet of La Visaille, from where you will take a public bus to the picturesque town of Courmayeur, Italy.

Enjoy dinner as a group at your hotel.

Today’s hike is approximately 14 miles (22 km), 7 hours, 2,500 feet (760 m) of elevation gain, 2,750 feet (840 m) of elevation loss.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Svizzero (or similar)

Day 6

Courmayeur, Italy

Start your day by visiting the town of Courmayeur with your local female guide. This stunning Alpine town is one of the historic capitals for mountaineering and is known for its cobbled streets and traditional buildings. Pass the local delicatessens and cafés that perfectly represent the Italian treats and the unparalleled hospitality. Admire the many magical mountain peaks towering on the horizon.

Continue your program by visiting a nearby winery where you will travel via a public bus. This establishment, with its idyllic surroundings, is a perfect backdrop for exploring the region’s wine cellars and vineyards. Try some of the delicious wines from the valley, and discover the secrets of local cuisine. During a cooking demonstration, learn how to cook a typical dessert from the region. The tour and the activities are led by the women of the family.

Transfer back to your hotel via public transportation.

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own: explore Courmayeur’s vibrant and diverse restaurant scene which perfectly complements its alpine charm. Or, indulge in the typical dishes of your hotel’s restaurant.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Hotel Svizzero (or similar)

Day 7

Courmayeur, Italy

After breakfast, start the steep climb up to Rifugio Bertone with the best view of the Mont Blanc massif. Hike along the Mont de la Saxe, taking the balcony path facing the ridge of the Grandes Jorasses. Stop for a picnic lunch and take in the unforgettable view. Descend to Arp Nouva, at the very end of Val Ferret from where you will transfer to Courmayeur via public transportation.

Enjoy dinner as a group at your hotel.

Today’s hike is approximately 9 miles (14 km), 4.5 hours, 3,600 feet (1,100 m) of elevation gain, 2,100 feet (700 m) of elevation loss.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Svizzero (or similar)

Day 8

Grand Col Ferret

Following breakfast, transfer to Arp Nouva. Your morning begins with a climb to Pré de Bar and across the Grand Col Ferret, the highest pass of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Descend into the hamlet of Ferret, Switzerland. From here, enjoy the view of the deep, green forest crawling up the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.

Arrive in Champex-Lac on foot and enjoy dinner as a group at your hotel or at a local restaurant.

Today’s hike is approximately 12 miles (19 km), 6.5 hours, 2,800 feet (870 m) of elevation gain, 2,800 feet (870 m) of elevation loss.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel du Glacier (or similar)

Day 9

Col de la Forclaz

Taking the Bovine Way, an old trail used to access the flower-filled summer cow pastures high above the valley, continue along your circuit today, passing the Col de la Forclaz (5,000 feet). Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.

Get transferred to Chamonix and check-in at your hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Today’s hike is approximately 10.5 miles (16 km), 5 hours, 2,950 feet (900 m) of elevation gain, 3,500 feet (1,080 m) of elevation loss.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch

Overnight: Hotel Pointe Isabelle (or similar)

Day 10

Chamonix, France

Take the public bus to the starting point of your last Mont Blanc hike. Head towards the Chamonix Valley and hike through the Aiguilles Rouges (“Red Needles”) nature reserve. This route passes the iconic mountain lakes of Chezery and Lac Blanc, providing you with a unique panorama. This will, without a doubt, be a memorable end to your hiking journey. Descend to the Flegère cable car’s upper station and return to Chamonix by local public transportation. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.

Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at a local restaurant with your new AdventureWomen friends. Reflect on the cherished memories you’ve created and celebrate the conclusion of an amazing journey through this truly remarkable tour.

Today’s hike is approximately 8 miles (13 km), 6 hours, 4,000 feet (1,230 m) of elevation gain, 2,000 feet (600 m) of elevation loss.

Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Pointe Isabelle (or similar)

Day 11

Depart from Geneva, Switzerland

After breakfast, a group transfer to the airport will be provided when most guests depart (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at other times are available for purchase.

It is advised to schedule your flights for after 2:00 PM.

Breakfast

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Traveling to Mont Blanc



Arrival and Departure Information

July 7, 2025 Departure 

Arrive: Arrive in Geneva, Switzerland (GVA) on July 7, 2025 by 12:00PM. One group transfer is included (time TBD); private transfers at other times are available for an additional fee.

Depart: Depart Geneva, Switzerland (GVA) on July 17, 2025 after 2:00PM. One group transfer is included; private transfers at other times can be arranged for an additional fee.

 

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Preparation and Packing  

Please use the following guides as a reference when preparing for your adventure. We also encourage you to adapt the guides to your travel style as well as the destination’s forecasted weather.  

Gratuities  

Gratuities are a personal decision and are at your own discretion based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided. Gratuities are dependent upon the number of guests on your departure, and they vary greatly from trip to trip. As a general reference, AdventureWomen suggests you plan for 70-100 EUR (or more) worth of gratuities for this adventure. Specific tipping recommendations for your trip will be provided to you closer to your departure date and may fluctuate due to inflation, exchange rates, and the number of travelers on your trip. 

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates with at least two blank-facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

Activity Level

We rate this trip as Challenging. Our challenging adventures get your heart rate pumping and are more athletic. These women’s trips are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition and be able to hike up to 10 miles per day in steeper, more rugged terrain. Please note that this is a general description of what you might encounter; for specific details about your trip, please consult the itinerary.

We recommend training before your trip (with your doctor’s permission) to make the most of your adventure. With this itinerary in mind, we have a partnership with Trailblazer Wellness, a woman-owned, women-run company that will design an individualized fitness plan just for you! Best of all, AdventureWomen guests get a 10% discount with the code AVW. Learn more on the Trailblazer Wellness website.

Health Considerations

Make an appointment with a travel clinic, as they may have recommendations for vaccines and medications based on the destination as well as your age, health, and past vaccination history.

For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the pages about Portugal and Spain.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800. You can transfer your deposit to another trip with no additional fee if you notify us within 120 days of the original trip departure date. We can hold your deposit for up to six months as a credit. Failure to book a new trip within this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of your deposit.

Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplement Health and Safety Form

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

July 7, 2025 Departure Final Payment Due Date: April 8, 2025

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

What's Included

Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • One group transfer on arrival and departure
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • Activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinking water available from taps to refill personal bottles

Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Switzerland
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Accommodations

Hotel Pointe Isabelle (or similar)

Hotel Pointe Isabelle is based on the story of Isabella Straton, a true adventurer, and one of the top female pioneers in alpinism. Born in Victorian England, Straton left her home country for the uncharted French Alps. The hotel, located in the heart of Chamonix, was founded by her grandchildren as a tribute to their grandmother. Pointe Isabelle is your Chamonix "home away from home."

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi

Hotel La Chemenaz (or similar)

La Chemenaz is a delightful hotel nestled in the heart of Les Contamines-Montjoie. Offering a privileged setting, premium services, and an outdoor pool, guests can revel in the scenic beauty of the majestic Mont-Blanc Mountain Range. The hotel's exterior is adorned with vibrant flowers while the spacious and comfortable rooms exude a cozy atmosphere. Inspired by the traditional architecture of Savoyard chalets, the welcoming decor adds a touch of charm. All rooms offer natural light and feature private balconies.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, cable/satellite TV, safe, private balcony, Wi-Fi

Hotel L'Autentic (or similar)

Located in Bourg Saint Maurice, near one of the largest ski resorts of Savoie, this nice hotel offers comfort and a quiet place to stay. You will be welcomed any day of the year, in a green and relaxing environment where the nobility of the stone and the warmth of the wood create a Savoyard atmosphere.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi

Hotel Svizzero (or similar)

Located in Courmayeur, this hotel was built in the immediate post-war period as a typical Swiss chalet. Renovated in the early 2000s, it's been pampering guests ever since. Located a short distance from the centre of Courmayeur and the ski lifts, this hotel offers you the opportunity to stay in an exclusive and comfortable chalet.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker, cable/satellite TV, Wi-Fi

Hotel du Glacier (or similar)

A hotel that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. For four generations, the Biselx family has been welcoming returning guests while upholding the Swiss hospitality tradition. The property boasts a sauna and on-site breakfast.

Amenities: soap, Wi-Fi

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary