Day 1 - Arrive in Chamonix

We meet at the group hotel in the Chamonix valley. We will have a trip briefing at around 6pm, which will give you the chance to ask questions and find out about the week ahead.

 

Day 2 - Chalets de Chailloux

Today we will ease into the week, as we get used to our snowshoes and master the techniques needed. We will also learn how to use our avalanche safety equipment. We will then spend the day on a fabulous walk to the Chalets de Chailloux, from where we have a great vantage point and wonderful views of Mont Blanc. 

 

Day 3 - Ascent of Mont de l'Arpille, Switzerland

We start the day with a drive to the village of Ravoire, overlooking the Rhone Valley. We make our way through the pine forests to the high pastures, then on to our summit. The Mont de l'Arpille is one of the best vantage points in the area, with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains, including the Dents du Midi. 

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Day 4 - Vallorcine and the Alpage de Loriaz

First we head to the small hamlet of Vallorcine, then climb until we reach the high mountain pastures of Loriaz. If the Refuge de Loriaz is open then we will stop for a hot chocolate and admire the fantastic Mont Blanc views.

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Day 5 - La Crête des Bénés

First we take a short transfer down the mountain to Sallanches, and pick up a trail that zig-zags through the forest below the Tête Noire (1691m). As we leave the trees we are treated to magnificent views in all directions - Mont Blanc (4810m), the Aravis mountains (with the Pointe Percée at 2752m), the Croisse Baulet (2236m), and the Rochers des Fiz. 

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Day 6 - The Grand St Bernard Monastery

Tonight we will aim to stay at the historic and world famous Grand St Bernard Monastery. The mountain pass sits at 2469m and in winter it is only accessible by snowshoe or skis, making it a very peaceful and special place. As we climb we follow in the footsteps of Hannibal and Napoleon, not to mention countless pilgrims, traders and travellers throughout the centuries. The monastery is also famous for its iconic rescue dogs, and we should have enough time in the morning to visit the Grand St Bernard Museum in Martigny before we start our climb up to the monastery. There is no luggage access on this day.

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Day 7 - Col Ouest de Barasson - the Italian frontier

After our night at the monastery we will take a route through a valley leading to the Italian border and the Col Ouest de Barasson (2635m). A leisurely walk through the valley is accompanied by beautiful views. A final ascent lead us up to the pass, where we can enjoy a picnic lunch with Mont Blanc views. After lunch we descend back to the minibus and transfer back to Chamonix for a final celebratory meal and overnight in your hotel or chalet.

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Day 8 - Departure Day

Our trip ends after breakfast.