Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking Guide: Routes Edition
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) hiking route is unanimously regarded by mountaineering enthusiasts as one of the world's top ten classic hiking routes. It was also selected by National Geographic as one of the 20 Dream Trails globally.
Today, as your guide, I will explain where the official starting point of the Tour du Mont Blanc really is!
Is Chamonix the official starting point of TMB?
Many people assume that the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) starts from Chamonix. However, the TMB doesn't actually pass through Chamonix. Although Chamonix is a well-known tourist and mountaineering base in the Alps and many hikers choose to begin their TMB journey here, the traditional route of the TMB doesn't directly go through Chamonix.
So, why do so many people start from Chamonix if the official TMB route doesn't pass through it? The reason is simple: Chamonix offers comprehensive tourist infrastructure, including hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and various hiking gear shops, making it an ideal preparation base for hiking trips. Additionally, the beautiful scenery and abundant outdoor activities in Chamonix attract travelers from all over the world.
At the same time, Chamonix remains an excellent starting point for entering the TMB. Starting from Chamonix, you can enjoy some of the easiest initial hiking sections of the TMB, especially if you choose to walk counterclockwise. The route to Les Houches is flat and easy, a good choice for a warm-up hike. Afterward, you will encounter the first challenge: a gradual ascent to the Col de Voza.
Where is the official starting point of TMB?
From Chamonix, you can drive, take a train, or carpool to the true official starting point of the Tour du Mont Blanc—Les Houches. During the hiking season, Chamonix is filled with hikers and mountaineers. If you are hiking alone, finding a fellow traveler to share the journey to the official TMB starting point is an environmentally friendly and economical choice.
Les Houches has an official starting gate, and our outdoor adventure company, Altitude Trekker, has an office right next to the gate at 101 rue de l'eglise. When you arrive, don't forget to drop by our office. We have a comfortable rest area and offer free drinks to help you relax and adjust. We can also provide you with the latest hiking information and professional consultation services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable hiking trip.
Let me introduce our company briefly. Since 2015, Altitude Trekker has been leading Chinese friends on the Tour du Mont Blanc hikes. Over the years, we have hosted hundreds of Chinese teams from around the world. Our guides are experienced, with some having been in the industry for nearly 30 years, mastering various hiking techniques and knowledge. The reason we chose to locate our office in Les Houches is because it is not only an official starting point of the TMB, but the official tourism office is also nearby, making it convenient for us to get the latest hiking information and communicate easily. To boast a little, we might be the most professional Chinese outdoor adventure company on the TMB.
Is there another starting point for TMB?
Next, if you want to explore the full scope of the TMB, consider starting from Courmayeur in Italy. Starting from Courmayeur, another official starting point, you will directly enter the core challenges of the TMB, including the Grand Col Ferret at 2537 meters and the Col de la Seigne at 2516 meters.
Finally, although Chamonix might not be part of the official TMB route, it remains a perfect place to explore the Alps and Mont Blanc. Whether you start your TMB journey from Chamonix or choose another route, the magnificent natural scenery and ever-changing landscapes will accompany you every step of the way.
Summary :
The true official starting point of the Tour du Mont Blanc is in Les Houches, not Chamonix.
Our company, Altitude Trekker, has an office next to the Les Houches starting point. We welcome you to visit and have a drink.
Although Chamonix is not the official starting point, its well-equipped facilities and beautiful scenery still make it an excellent choice for preparing for your hike.
Have You Been Inspired by This Blog Post?
Do you also want to experience the charm of the Tour du Mont Blanc firsthand?
Contact us, and let us take you on a magnificent journey through the Alps.
We're waiting for you!
Official website registration
Visit our official website registration now to view product details. The number of places is limited, so please register as soon as possible.
Some pictures are from the Internet
The article is original and unauthorized reproduction is strictly prohibited
For reprint authorization, please contact WeChat: maxiaoxue371932
Comments