A flower-lover's paradise... 
Route summary
£985.00 (2013)
7 nights
7 B&B, 6 evening meals, 6 picnics
Luggage transfers between hotels
Hard
4½ - 6 hours per day
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Chamonix and the French Alps
Le Pays du Mont Blanc
Full Description

A self-guided hike around Mont Blanc, without the crowds.  Start in St. Gervais, and  stay in Les Contamines valley, les Houches and dramatic Chamonix. 

 

The finest mountain scenery in Europe

Our harder Alpine route, at the foot of Mont Blanc, is one of the most awe-inspiring and spectacular landscapes in Europe. Whichever way you turn, you are met by one breathtaking view after another. Mont Blanc, rising innocently some 4000 metres above you can look deceptively near until viewed through a telescope, whilst considering how many attempts it took before man reached its summit. But our walk is lower, in the alpages, the delightful meadows, flower-decked in June and July, which demand that you stop, breathe in, listen to the cow-bell silence and take in the extraordinary vistas around you. Sit down and relax before you rush on to your next authentic Savoyard hotel, as the paths are demanding, though so rewarding.

Walked by On Foot staff: Simon

 

Alpine flora Day with Lizzy Ashley-Cooper - contact us. Extra night advisable so as not to miss a day on the route.

 

Standard option (as per 'Itinerary'): 7 nights, but why not add an extra rest day (or indeed walking day) along the route - Lizzy has designed plenty of circular walks from  the accommodation we use.

Suggested shorter alternatives and variations. Contact us for ideas.

Highlights
  • The finest mountain scenery in Europe
  • Alpine meadows and summer flowers
  • Glaciers and snowfields - the Aiguille du Midi cablecar (3840m)
  • The Bionassay summer suspension bridge
  • Savoyard cooking and wine in authentic hotels and chambres d'hôtes.
  • Hedonistic relaxtion by the pool (days 6/7)

WE RECOMMEND:  Why not spend a day (or part day) looking for Alpine flora with Lizzy Ashley-Cooper, our knowledgeable route advisor and local contact?  She knows where the rarest and most interesting plants are likely to be found, and can lead a mini-expedition in that quest. Have a look at her photos on www.facebook.com/onfootholidays and contact us for further information. It will be Lizzy's availability-, season- and weather-dependent, so bookings for this unmissable experience will be taken on a provisional basis and payable locally (€80-€120 per party depending on day length, excluding picnic/transport).

 

EATING AND DRINKING:  The home of mountain cooking, the Chamonix area is a gourmet's delight, and you will stay (subject to availability) with three excellent cooks - Fiona at Les Contamines, Helen/Leighton at Les Houches, and Carla at Chamonix.  Watch out for a lot of cheese-based concoctions.  And as its France, the wine is good.
Route map
Route designed by

Lizzy Ashley Cooper

Lizzy grew to love Mont Blanc and the surrounding area so much that she has made it her home. She regularly walks the paths and routes in the forests, mountain slopes and meadows, with their abundant flora and other wildlife. She is a keen ski tourer.