Tour du Mont Blanc Difficulty - 4-Day vs 10-Day Routes
The Tour du Mont Blanc difficulty level has no one-size-fits-all answer. How hard you find the trek depends on the number of days you hike and, very importantly, your own level of fitness.
Whether you're embarking on the 4-day Tour du Mont Blanc highlights or the full 10-day hike around Mont Blanc, a certain level of physical preparation is required. Don't worry, though - with proper training, these treks are achievable for most people.
Here, we compare the two most popular Tour du Mont Blanc routes and discuss the difficulty levels of each. We've also included some tips for getting in shape for your hike.
Highlights or 10-Days - Which TMB Tour is For Me?
Embarking on the Tour du Mont Blanc is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and choosing the right trek to suit your desires and stamina is essential.
The Highlights: A 4-Day Whirlwind Adventure
Fasten your hiking boots and brace yourself for a whirlwind adventure around Mont Blanc, traversing breathtaking glaciers and pristine mountain lakes. This 4-day circuit packs a powerful punch, taking you through Italy, Switzerland, and back to France in one exhilarating trek.
Highlights include the remote Rifugio Bonatti nestled at 2,025m in Italy's Val Ferret, as well as the Grand Ferret Pass, the highest point of your trek at 2,536m. As you walk, you'll get to enjoy incredible views of the Mont Blanc massif.
On the trail, your guides ensure you have every opportunity to sample delicious local foods, starting with local cheeses at a charming Swiss farm in La Fouly. You'll also trek up to Bovine, known for its incredible rosti (a pan-fried vegetable dish).
Conclude your journey with awe-inspiring views of Mont Blanc at the Col De Balme, before finally descending to Le Tour.
You can book a 4-day Tour du Mont Blanc hike with Skyhook.
The 10-Day Mont Blanc Marathon: An Epic Odyssey
For those who seek a more in-depth exploration of the Mont Blanc region, the 10-day trek offers an extended journey with a variety of unique experiences.
Like the 4-day Highlights trek, you still traverse Italy, Switzerland, and France. But, this longer itinerary allows you to delve deeper into the captivating landscapes and charming villages of the area.
In addition to the breathtaking Bionassay Glacier, which you'll encounter on both treks, the 10-day version allows you to explore the quaint village of Les Chapieux, ascend the Col du Bonhomme, and cross the French-Italian border at Col de la Seigne.
While you visit Val Ferret on the 4-day trek as well, the 10-day journey offers a more leisurely pace to truly appreciate its beauty.
Transitioning from Italy to Switzerland at the Grand Col Ferret, you also get to experience the picturesque village of Champex-Lac, a tranquil respite on your trekking journey.
Although both routes offer stunning Mont Blanc views from Col de Balme, on the 10-day trek, you have the additional option to scale the Aiguillette des Possettes peak for even more jaw-dropping panoramas.
Ultimately, the 10-day Tour du Mont Blanc provides a more immersive experience, allowing you to connect more deeply with the region's natural splendor and cultural charm.
Learn more about doing the Tour du Mont Blanc guided 10 days with Skyhook.
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My Recommendation
For most people, I would highly recommend the 4-day highlights trek. This condensed journey allows you to experience the best sights of the Tour du Mont Blanc, while still being manageable for a broader range of fitness levels.
The 10-Day Tour du Mont Blanc is more suitable for experienced hikers who are comfortable with trekking for extended periods and truly relish immersions in nature.
How Hard is Tour du Mont Blanc?
Distances
The 4-day highlights trek, while shorter, still demands physical fitness and mental fortitude. Here's a breakdown of the daily distances, ascents, descents, and maximum altitudes of the Skyhook trip:
Day 1: Distance: 5.8km. Ascent: 550m. Descent: 50m. Max altitude: 2,056m
Day 2: Distance: 20km. Ascent: 1,000m. Descent: 1,290m. Max altitude: 2,536m
Day 3: Distance: 18.5km. Ascent: 810m. Descent: 1,000m. Max altitude: 2,050m
Day 4: Distance: 11.1km. Ascent: 975m. Descent: 1,192m. Max altitude: 2,202m
For the 10-day version, the distance is significantly longer, as are your total ascents and descents:
Day 1: Distance: 11.6km. Ascent: 672m. Descent: 1,294m.
Day 2: Distance: 15km. Ascent: 1,274m. Descent: 923m.
Day 3: Distance: 14.7km. Ascent: 800m. Descent: 1,034m.
Day 4: Distance: 11.3km. Ascent: 500m. Descent: 1,283m.
Day 5: Distance: 16km. Ascent: 1,171m. Descent: 612m.
Day 6: Distance: 13.1km. Ascent: 600m. Descent: 1,005m.
Day 7: Distance: 16.6km. Ascent: 617m. Descent: 781m.
Day 8: Distance: 13.8km. Ascent: 739m. Descent: 873m.
Day 9: Distance: 13.1km. Ascent: 875m. Descent: 992m.
Day 10: Distance: 15.1km. Ascent: 1,041m. Descent: 1,357m.
While these numbers might seem daunting, remember that they're spread out over ten days. This makes the trek achievable so long as you have a good basic fitness and endurance level.
Getting Fit For Your Hike
The longer days on the trail can involve up to eight hours of trekking with a backpack, so it's essential to have a good level of physical fitness.
In the months leading up to your trek, we recommend engaging in a sport you enjoy (e.g., running, swimming, or tennis) at least twice a week.
Additionally, try to embark on training hikes, ideally for a full day, while carrying a 5kg to 7kg rucksack. These hikes will help build your endurance and familiarise you with the demands of the trek.
Further reading: Training For Tour du Mont Blanc
Determination and Perseverance
The Tour du Mont Blanc is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Each day presents a new challenge that inspires you to push forward, overcome obstacles, and reach the finish line.
Before you know it, you'll be back in Chamonix, celebrating your accomplishment like the locals over some delightful Genepi and Pastis.
In Summary
Both the 4-day highlights and 10-day trek demand physical fitness, determination, and a love for adventure.
With proper training and preparation, you'll be well-equipped to complete this unforgettable journey and make lasting memories in the heart of the European Alps.
