Mont Blanc: Hiking and Alpine Scenery

Location: Europe
Duration: 11 Days
Price: From $6,695
Activity Level: Challenging

Mont Blanc: Hiking and Alpine Scenery

Location: Europe
Duration: 11 Days
Price: From $6,695
Activity Level: Challenging

Overview

Embark on an immersive exploration of the Mont Blanc region with AdventureWomen, blending outdoor adventures with cultural discoveries and culinary delights.  Known as the highest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc offers breathtaking landscapes and challenging hikes. Your adventure kicks off in Geneva, followed by a warm welcome dinner in Chamonix. Experience a thrilling cable ride to Aiguille du Midi, hike the scenic Balcon du Nord, and traverse the Col du Tricot. Then, in a cross-country expedition, discover Italy’s charm in Courmayeur, enjoying a local winery visit and a cooking demo. Ascend to the Grand Col Ferret, the highest pass of the Tour du Mont Blanc, before concluding your adventure with a farewell dinner and a final hike through the Aiguilles Rouge nature preserve. Savor every moment in this captivating alpine paradise!

Main Attractions

Breathtaking Altitudes

Experience exhilarating high-altitude hikes with stunning alpine scenery through Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Chamonix & Les Contamines

Immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes of Chamonix and tranquil Les Contamines-Montjoie.

Culinary & Scenic Journeys

Cross international borders while enjoying delicious cuisine and challenging hikes, culminating at the Grand Col Ferret.

Map showing routes from Geneva to Chamonix with insets detailing hiking paths around Mont Blanc, including travel modes by plane, car, and hiking trails through Switzerland, France, and Italy.
A paraglider soars above a scenic lake flanked by mountains and greenery under a clear blue sky.
A picturesque alpine village with colorful flowers in the foreground, a river running through the center, and snow-capped mountains in the background.
Stone path leading to a church with a tall clock tower, surrounded by mountains and greenery under a clear blue sky.
A paraglider soars above a scenic lake flanked by mountains and greenery under a clear blue sky.
A picturesque alpine village with colorful flowers in the foreground, a river running through the center, and snow-capped mountains in the background.
Stone path leading to a church with a tall clock tower, surrounded by mountains and greenery under a clear blue sky.

Itinerary

A village with red flowers in the foreground, surrounded by mountains and green forests under a blue sky with clouds.

Welcome to Mont Blanc!

Arrive in Geneva and journey to Chamonix, a charming resort town nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant alpine culture, Chamonix is the perfect base for adventure and is a destination that attracts nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the beauty and excitement of the French Alps. You’ll meet your expert guide and fellow travelers, all eager to embrace new challenges together. Kick off your journey with an engaging orientation session, followed by a lively welcome dinner where you can share stories and connect with like-minded women. Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with exploration, camaraderie, and the stunning beauty of the French Alps!

Meals dinner
Red train on a mountain track with snow-covered peaks in the background, passing near a stone building.

Alps by Cable Car and Glacier Viewing

Start your first full day experiencing the magic of Chamonix with a breathtaking cable car ride to l’Aiguille du Midi, where stunning panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Alps await. After soaking in the beauty from the summit, embark on the iconic Balcon du Nord trail, a scenic hike that offers captivating vistas of the Mont Blanc Massif and lush alpine landscapes. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before concluding your hike at Montenvers, where the spectacular Mer de Glace, “Sea of Ice” glacier beckons. After a day of adventure, indulge in Chamonix’s vibrant dining scene or unwind at your hotel’s cozy bistro. Join us for an unforgettable day filled with exploration and breathtaking scenery! 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch
A picturesque alpine village with grazing animals in a green meadow, surrounded by trees and snow-capped mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Hike Through Les Contamines: Alpine Serenity

Embark on a captivating hike through the picturesque village of Les Contamines, nestled near the Mont Blanc massif. Begin your day with a scenic cable car ride to Bellevue, where breathtaking views of the Chamonix Valley and the Mont Blanc Range unfold. Your hike takes you past the majestic Bionassay glacier, rolling slopes, and into the serene Valley of Les Contamines-Montjoie. Along the way, enjoy a delightful picnic surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Conclude your adventurous day with a group dinner in the heart of this charming village, sharing stories and savoring the beauty of the mountains. 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch, dinner
A building in Mont Blanc.

Tackle Col Du Bonhomme

Begin your day in Bourg Saint Maurice with a scenic hike to the Baroque Chapel Notre Dame de la Gorge. Ascend along ancient Roman pathways to the breathtaking Col du Bonhomme, a high-altitude pass offering stunning panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif. Prepare for this challenging trek, which includes steep ascents and descents through picturesque valleys, where you may encounter the iconic “tarine” cows in serene mountain pastures. Celebrate your achievement with a well-deserved group dinner at a local restaurant, sharing stories and savoring the flavors of the region. Enjoy your adventure and the beauty of the Alps on this unforgettable day! 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch, dinner
A mont blanc landscape.

Col de la Seigne to Courmayeur, Italy

Journey from France to Italy via the Col de la Seigne, a mountain pass in the Alps that serves as a natural border between France and Italy. Set off through lush pastures and snowfields, soaking in spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif. Enjoy the beauty of glacier lakes as you descend into the enchanting Val Veni, where you’ll find the charming hamlet of La Visaille. A short bus ride will then take you to the picturesque town of Courmayeur, Italy, where you’ll unwind and share stories over a delightful group dinner at your hotel. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and cultural discovery on this unforgettable day! 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch, dinner
People walking through a street with buildings.

Discover Courmayeur, Italy

Enjoy a well-deserved rest day in the enchanting alpine town of Courmayeur, nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. Join your local female guide for a stroll through cobbled streets lined with charming cafés and delicatessens, where you’ll soak in the breathtaking mountain views and experience Italian customs. Venture to a nearby winery to explore picturesque vineyards and taste exquisite local wines. Enjoy a hands-on cooking demonstration, where you’ll learn to make a traditional dessert, led by the talented local women of the family. After a delightful day of discovery, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening, or explore Courmayeur’s vibrant dining scene.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Mountain range under a clear blue sky with green forested slopes in the foreground.

Hike to Rifugio Bertone

Embark on a rewarding climb to Rifugio Bertone after breakfast, perched at 6,500 feet with stunning views of Mont Blanc massif. Trek along the scenic Mont de la Saxe, soaking in panoramic vistas of the Grandes Jorasses. Pause for a delightful picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking alpine beauty. The rifugio strategically located along hiking and trekking routes, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the region. Beyond its practical role as a resting place for hikers, Rifugio Bertone is also embedded in the cultural and natural heritage of the Alps and offers its visitors a sense of connection to the mountain environment and its history. Afterward, descend to Arp Nouva at the end of Val Ferret, before transport back to Courmayeur. Gather for a delicious group dinner at your hotel, sharing stories and memories from a day filled with adventure and stunning landscapes. 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch, dinner
A person with a backpack walks on a trail through a grassy mountain landscape under a clear blue sky.

Cross the Grand Col Ferret

After breakfast, explore the Pennine Alps, and transfer to Arp Nouva. Begin an exhilarating climb to Pré de Bar, leading you across the Grand Col Ferret, the highest pass of the Tour du Mont Blanc at 8,323 feet. As you traverse this stunning high-altitude route, marvel at the breathtaking views of lush forests and majestic mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the alpine beauty before descending into the charming hamlet of Ferret, Switzerland. Complete your adventure with a scenic walk to Champex-Lac, where you’ll gather for a delightful group dinner, celebrating the day’s achievements and the beauty of the journey. 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch, dinner
Railway tracks curve through a lush valley with vibrant pink flowers in the foreground and snow-capped mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.

Hike the Bovine Way to Col de la Forclaz

Begin your day with a scenic hike along the Bovine Way, an old trail used to access the flower-filled summer cow pastures high above. Ascend to the Col de la Forclaz at 5,000 feet, where stunning views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding Alps await. Pause for a delightful picnic lunch amidst nature before descending back into the valley. After your invigorating trek, enjoy a transfer to Chamonix, where you’ll check in at your hotel. Spend the evening at your discretion, exploring Chamonix’s charming restaurants and cafes. 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch
A snow-capped mountain is reflected in a calm lake during sunset, with rocky terrain in the foreground and a clear blue sky above.

Farewell Hike through Aiguilles Rouge

On your final day, enjoy a memorable hike through the stunning Aiguilles Rouge nature reserve, home to a variety of alpine flora and fauna, a designated area for the conservation of natural resources. This mountain range is located opposite Mont Blanc massif. Known for its striking red rock formations, this scenic route offers breathtaking views of iconic mountain lakes like Chezery and Lac Blanc. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the alpine beauty before descending to the Flegère cable car station and returning to Chamonix. Conclude your adventure with a delightful farewell dinner at a local restaurant, where you will share stories and celebrate the cherished memories made with fellow travelers throughout this incredible journey. 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.

Meals breakfast, boxed lunch, dinner
A mountain town scene with people walking along a pathway lined with outdoor cafe tables, bicycles, and buildings, with snow-capped mountains in the background under a clear sky.

Departure from Geneva

Enjoy a final breakfast in charming Chamonix, savoring the last moments of your Mont Blanc adventure. Bid farewell to your incredible guides and fellow travelers who have made this journey unforgettable. After breakfast, a group transfer will take you to Geneva Airport for your flight home, with private transfers available if needed.

Meals breakfast
A vibrant village with colorful flowers in the foreground, surrounded by buildings, and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky in the background.

Accommodations

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

A modern hotel with balconies is set against a backdrop of mountains and trees. A busy street scene with people and parasols is in the foreground.

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, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

A wooden hotel with balconies in a mountainous area, a fenced pool in the foreground, and green hills in the background.

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, hair dryer, cable / satelite TV, safe, private balcony, Wi-Fi

Rustic stone and wood building with wooden shutters, set behind a field of blooming purple lavender under a clear blue sky.

Hotel La Petite Auberge (or similar)

The Petite Auberge is nestled on the outskirts of Bourg Saint-Maurice, offering a tranquil and sunny retreat. Surrounded by lush gardens and majestic mountains, it provides a peaceful escape. With an adjoining restaurant, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a delightful dinner after a day of hiking. Please note that, while each room has a private bathroom, the toilet are shared with other guests.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, private bathroom, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, bottled water, Wi-Fi

Charming wooden cabins surrounded by lush greenery and mountains under a clear blue sky, with visible solar panels and a small pool in the foreground.

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, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, cable / satellite TV, Wi-Fi

A multi-story yellow hotel with wooden balconies and green shutters under a clear blue sky.

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

What People Are Saying

“I discovered AdventureWomen on a trip several years ago. This company takes us to unusual places & introduces us to very unique activities. I think AdventureWomen is very well-organized.”

What People Are Saying

“I have never traveled with another group, but I think what sets AdventureWomen apart is all of the staff on your team and the places we stayed. Caring, paying attention to detail, very knowledgeable and just a lot of fun!”

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Jul 7 Jul 17
Space Available
$6,695*
Standard Room, Single
$8,295 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$6,695 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2025 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,600

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Jul 6 Jul 16
Space Available
$6,895*
Standard Room, Single
$8,495 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$6,895 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2026 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,600

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

Departure: 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.

What's 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

What's 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

FAQs

Absolutely! We happily welcome all women as long as you are physically capable of doing the activities on your chosen trip. Our guests range from 18-85+! It is important to us to talk to each guest to make sure each woman chooses the right trip for her physical ability and interest.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. However, internal flights are included in some itineraries so please read the itinerary carefully.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Moderate: These adventures exercise your mind more than your body and are designed for women who prefer a leisurely, less rigorous experience. For example, you could walk up to 2 miles per day through cities and villages, stand in museums for a few hours, relax on a boat, or view wildlife from a vehicle.
  • Active: Adventures that get you on your feet! You should be in good physical condition where you are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone streets, biking manicured nature trails or kayaking calm waters.
  • High Energy: These adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on a rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing.
  • Challenging: Adventures that get your heart rate pumping, these 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, in steeper, more rugged terrain.