Best of Mont Blanc Snowshoe Holiday 2022

Some of the most diverse and spectacular snowshoeing in the Alps can be found around Chamonix and the Mont Blanc region. From a comfortable base in Chamonix, we'll explore the diversity of the region and will cross the border into the neighbouring Italy and/or Switzerland, which are only a 30 minutes drive away. Our objective for each day is to ascend, via an interesting route, to a high mountain pasture, a mountain pass or a peak in the region.

Day 1(Sunday): Arrival in Chamonix Valley
Arrive in the Chamonix valley and meet with our leader in the evening for welcome, snowshoe equipment check and briefing.

Day 2 (Monday): Les Contamines and Mont Truc
Our first tour kicks off from the Montjoie valley to the West of Mont Blanc. We ascend from a small hamlet, through forest, to an idyllic high mountain pasture with charming old barns. This is a great route for getting used to our snowshoes and to spend some time practicing a few skills needed for safe travel in winter. The highlight of the day is our final ascent to the top of Mont Truc.

Day 3 (Tuesday): Vallorcine and the Loriaz Chalets
From Vallorcine we ascend on a narrow and interesting track through snow-covered pine forest. As we come out of the tree line, the terrain opens up, revealing the Loriaz mountain pastures. We continue to the Loriaz chalets, which are nearly completely hidden under the snow. On our descend we traverse the plateau and complete the circle back to Vallorcine.

Day 4 (Wednesday): The Rhone Valley and Mont de l’Arpille
We head into Switzerland to a small hamlet above the Rhone valley. Here, we strap on our snowshoes and begin the ascent to the summit of Mont de l’Arpille. Our route takes us past an idyllic mountain pasture to the summit, which offers spectacular 360 degrees views of the Mont Blanc massif in France, the Swiss Valais region and the impressive Rhone valley.

Day 5 (Thursday): Les Houches and the Aiguillette des Houches
Our aim today is an ascent of the Aiguillette des Houches situated above the Chamonix valley with, probably, the best views of the Mont Blanc massif as well as views of the Fizz mountain chain. This makes for an unforgettable day on snowshoes.

Day 6 (Friday): Vallon de Bérard and the Col de Bérard
From the hamlet le Buet we move up the gorgeous Vallon de Bérard along a gorgeous mountain stream until the valley opens up and reveals a stunning snowy bowl. We continue ascending until we reach the high-point of our week Col de Bérard at 2460 meters. From the col we have have views into the stunning and remote Aiguille Rouges nature reserve. This is a long day and a great final to our week.

Day 7 (Saturday): Depart Chamonix
After breakfast, you check out of your hotel. This is the end of the trip.

Trip details

Grade:
Suitable for walkers with good fitness and an adventurous spirit. No previous winter experience neccessary.

Duration:
7 days holiday with 5 days walking.

Accommodation:
Hotel (3***).

Group size and guides:
From 4 to 8 clients with 1 certified English-speaking guide (UIMLA).