What to Do in Chamonix Before You Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc: Tips from the Trail

Hi everyone! Lynn Campbell here, co-founder of 10Adventures, writing from the charming mountain town of Chamonix. I’m here preparing for my upcoming trek on the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), and I wanted to share a few thoughts (and a bit of inspiration) for anyone planning this bucket-list adventure.

If you’ve dreamt of walking through some of the most dramatic and beautiful alpine landscapes on earth, the TMB is calling your name. This roughly 170 km circuit loops through France, Italy, and Switzerland, all while circling the mighty Mont Blanc massif. But before you lace up your boots and hit the trail, I highly recommend spending a few days in Chamonix to get your bearings (and your legs) ready. Here’s why - and how to make the most of it.

Why Arrive Early in Chamonix?

First, arriving in Chamonix a few days early isn’t just a luxury, it’s a smart move. You’ll give yourself time to adjust to the time zone, shake off any lingering jet lag, and get used to the altitude. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to soak up the unique energy of this iconic alpine town. Chamonix is a paradise for outdoor lovers, full of lively cafés, gear shops, and stunning views at every turn. Think of it as the perfect prelude to your big trek.

What to Do in Chamonix

Being a small mountain town in the Alps, you might not think there is a whole lot to do in Chamonix. But this alpine destination has been hosting outdoor explorers during all four seasons for nearly 300 years, meaning it’s well-equipped to serve as the jumping off point for your adventure. Without further ado, here a few of the pre-trek activities I chose to do in Chamonix ahead of my time trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc:

Day 1: Easy Legs and Local Charm

After a long journey, it’s tempting to jump straight into high mountain adventures, but trust me, start gently. On your first day, I recommend a beautiful, leisurely walk to help your body recover. Drive up past Plateau d'Assy to Plein Joux and wander up through the resort area to Les Chalets d’Ayeres, a picturesque cluster of tiny summer chalets. From there, continue down to Lac Vert, where you can enjoy lunch at the charming Restaurant du Lac Vert. It’s a local favorite for good reason. Delicious food, crystal-clear water, and incredible views? Yes, please.

Day 2: Getting Higher, Getting Stronger

On your second day, it’s time to get your heart pumping a little more. Head out early (I went around 7 am) to catch the first lift up to the Aiguille du Midi, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Alps. After soaking in the jaw-dropping panorama, take the lift down to the midstation and grab a snack at the cozy Buvette du Plan de l’Aiguille.

Next, walk the Balcon Nord trail all the way to the Mer de Glace. This route offers expansive views and an exhilarating sense of exposure. Though there’s no technical climbing, the big drop-offs can feel intense if you’re not fond of heights. At the Mer de Glace, take the cable car down to explore the fascinating ice caves, then hop on the scenic train back to Chamonix.

For this day, I used the Mont Blanc Natural Resort one-day pass, which makes moving between lifts and trains a breeze. Remember you need to reserve your time for the Aiguille du Midi, so do that well in advance of getting to Chamonix!

Day 3: The Final Warm-Up

On your last prep day before the TMB, head to Le Tour for a special treat. Be sure to stop at the bakery L’Al’Pain on the way. I think it might just have the best bread in the valley (and trust me, I take my bread seriously!).

Take the Charamillon gondola, and then the Autannes Chairlift, then walk to the Refuge du Col de Balme. Grab a coffee and a slice of pie at the refuge while enjoying fantastic views. Then the fun starts, walk around and then up to the Aiguillette des Possettes. This hike offers a spectacular vantage point back over the Mont Blanc massif, a great way to build excitement for what’s ahead. Then make your way back down to Le Tour.

Gear Advice For Your TMB Warmup

• Pack smart, pack light. You’ll thank yourself every single day on the trail.
• Bring plenty of water. The TMB involves long days with lots of elevation gain and loss, so staying hydrated is absolutely key.
• Well-worn boots. I made the mistake years ago of wearing a new pair of hiking boots on a multi-day trek. Never again!
• Stay fueled. Bring your favorite trail snacks and enjoy the delicious food along the way. Don’t forget to savour the local cheeses (I love the nearby Beaufortain cheese).
• Power Up! The last thing you want is to run out of battery when you arrive at a breathtaking vista. Be sure to bring a portable power bank to keep your device charged.

Ready to Plan Your TMB Adventure?

There’s truly nothing like the Tour du Mont Blanc, and preparing properly can make all the difference. Spending a few days in Chamonix before you start gives your body time to adapt and your mind time to soak in the magic of the Alps.

If you’re feeling inspired and ready to take the next step, our team at 10Adventures would love to help you plan your perfect TMB trek. We’re here to share firsthand advice, help you choose the best route and accommodations, and make sure your adventure is as seamless and memorable as possible.

Reach out today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable French trekking adventure together!