Mont Blanc - The White Mountain
What to Expect
You are embarking on an adventure in a place and among people whose lives might vary from your own. Aspects of life in Europe and in the villages around the TMB might seem unusual. Remember that these are often the same aspects that make an area an exotic and attractive destination. While the TMB is rated as moderate, no trek is easy, even those rated “easy or moderate”. In addition to the personal physical challenges you may face, travel conditions can present unexpected obstacles, such as rough and bumpy roads and changeable weather conditions, especially in the mountains. To prepare for this, “pack” a flexible and relaxed attitude. Bring a spirit of adventure and inquiry, a healthy sense of humour, and a willingness to encounter the unexpected, and you will find Walking the TMB the adventure of a lifetime!
Travel Documents and Requirements
Our team will do everything it can to support you and to ensure you are adequately prepared for your entry into Europe. However, in this fast-moving environment, we do suggest and encourage all guests to monitor relevant travel- and entry documentation-related information for your trip on equivalent official websites as part of your preparation process.
Further information will be provided in your trip-specific joining instructions closer to your departure date.
Visa
Australian citizens visiting Schengen countries do not need to apply for visas if staying for not more than 90 out of 180 days.
Even so, you will need to provide personal data when entering the Schengen area, collected as part of the new EES from late 2025, and apply for an ETIAS authorisation presumably from April 2027 onward. For further information, please see below.
For any other nationalities please click here to be referred to the Schengen Visa Info Website.
EES
EES stands for Entry-Exit System. EES is expected to be operational in late 2025.
The EES applies to you if you are a non-EU national travelling for a short stay to a European country using the EES and you either:
- possess a short-stay visa; or
- do not need a visa to stay for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period.
Your travel document data and other personal data will be collected, including your entry and exit dates, and will be registered electronically in the system. This procedure will facilitate your border crossing.
If this is your first time arriving at an EU-border crossing point since the EES implementation, you’ll be required to provide your personal information. Passport control officers will scan your fingerprints or take a photo of your face, and this data will be stored in a digital file.
Please click here for further information on the new Entry Exit System.
ETIAS
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System.
ETIAS will pre-screen travelers from “third countries,” which refers to citizens of countries that do not require a Schengen visa.
ETIAS is not a visa, it is a visa waiver, similar to the U.S. ESTA and Canadian eTA. Travelers currently visiting European Member countries visa-free will require an ETIAS from probably April 2027 onward. Passport holders of the EU single market are exempt from ETIAS.
Please click here for further information on Visa and ETIAS Requirements for your country.
ETIAS AND EES
For key differences between ETIAS and EES, please click here.
Schengen Entry Requirements
You will have to present several documents at the Schengen port of entry, to be permitted to enter if you are a non-EU/Schengen country national, regardless if you are a visa-exempt or not.
The documents you need to provide when entering the Schengen Area are as follows:
- Valid Passport: Issued within the previous 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU.
- Schengen Visa: If you are a national of one of the countries in need of a visa.
- Covid 19: There are currently no COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions on entering the Schengen Zone or Switzerland.
Nevertheless, we do advise all of our guests to monitor and seek the official travel advisories of their government. - Please click here for the latest news and to help identify the EU requirements according to your travel plans. Further, you can find the latest information on travel regulations for EU countries on the IATA website.
- EU/Schengen border officials may also ask for other information and documents such as sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, how long you intend to stay, round-trip airline ticket, the purpose of your entry, travel insurance, invitation letter, etc.
Please ensure the border officer gives you an entry stamp in your passport when you enter the Schengen area. Without a stamp, you could be fined or detained.
Please always seek up-to-date advise before your departure as entry conditions can rapidly change.
For further information, please check out Schengen Visa Information and Schengen Visa News.
Departure
Please check with your airline and your returning home country or next/ final destination regarding COVID-19 and other entry requirements.
Further, you can find the latest information on travel regulations on the IATA website.
Insurance
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions.
Once you have booked an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment and other associated costs. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons.
For our Australian guests, we are offering policies from NIB Travel for adequate cover, and you can contact our office direct, via phone or email, to obtain an insurance quote from us.
For guests travelling with us from outside Australia, please check Travel Insurance options within your Country.
If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.
For policies purchased before 1 September 2026
No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd ABN 49087049956 is a distributor of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 and receives a commission for nib products purchased through No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd. No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd cannot give advice about nib products, and any factual information provided is not intended to imply a recommendation or opinion about nib products. Before you buy, please read the Product Disclaimer Statement, Financial Services Guide and Target Market Determination available from us. If you have a complaint about a nib product, see the Product Disclosure Statement for the complaints process. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193.
For policies purchased on or after 1 September 2026
No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd ABN 49087049956 is a distributor on behalf of AWP Australia Pty Ltd, ABN 52 097 227 177, AFSL 245631, trading as Allianz Global Assistance (AGA). nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 acts as a third party administrator on behalf of AGA, managing claims, complaints, enquiries and sales. Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply. This is general advice only. Before you buy, you should consider whether the product is appropriate for you, the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Financial Services Guide (FSG) and Target Market Determination (TMD) available from us. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193, AFSL 523921.
Get a Quote
While we don’t anticipate any uninvited medical disruptions during your trek, No Roads wants to keep your mind at ease and help you get adequate assistance and cover for your well-earned time away. It is extremely important that we ensure you’re covered during your great alpine experience.
We are able to provide you with Travel Insurance for your trip, allowing you to tick this off your ‘To-Do Lis”t as soon as possible. We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance!
Already have a trusted insurance provider?
No problem at all! Our primary concern is that you have adequate cover.
Got a Pre-Existing Condition?
Simply notify us accordingly. After our team initiated your personal quote, simply call the NIB Insurance Team and they’ll complete an assessment on your behalf. In many cases, no additional premium will apply. Many common conditions are automatically covered.
Please note: Australia has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Italy which may cover some of your medical costs in the Italian public health system. Click here for more information.
For all other nationalities please explore insurance providers in your country.
Again, if you’ve any questions, don’t hesitate to ask info@noroads.com.au.
Accommodation
No Roads personally sources accommodation for our expeditions. Our aim is to provide a welcoming and comfortable home away from home.
In Chamonix (3 nights ) we will reside in one of our preferred hotels “en place” in twin/double shared rooms with en-suite facilities.
Throughout the trek, we use small family-run hotels for 9 nights. These are quaint hotels with very personal touches throughout. Often they will have a small waiting area where you can lounge and rest.
Please be aware that room sizes in hotels and their facilities will vary from one place to the next and sometimes from room to room within one hotel.
Note:
Accommodation options along the trail are limited, and where available, we prioritise comfortable 3-star hotels. To support this approach, we will be staying in the charming village of Courmayeur for 3 nights and in Argentiere for 2 nights. This setup also gives our guests the convenience of not having to pack and unpack daily.
In Argentiere, we use two hotels, both centrally located in the heart of the village. For certain trips, an upgrade option is available – from Hotel Dahu, a more basic accommodation, to Hotel La Couronne,, which offers a higher standard of comfort, including a sauna and steam bath.
Single Supplements are limited along the TMB. Please contact our team directly for further information.
Getting There And Away
Expedition Extensions
The No Roads Team is dedicated to ensuring your pre and on-trip experience is as enjoyable as possible. For those that have some extra time on their hands, we offer some interesting Expedition Extensions. These crafted itineraries will give you a more complete picture of your destination and give you an appreciation of the local cultural and natural history. Please contact us at info@noroads.com.au for more information.
Port of Arrival
Regardless of where you’re flying from, Geneva International Airport is your destination closest to Chamonix. Depending on the traffic it is approximately an hour from the airport into Chamonix.
Transfers
No Roads is providing RETURN TRANSFERS from Geneva Airport to Chamonix for no additional cost at the following hours:
Arrivals: between 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Departures: between 10:00 am and 7:30 pm
If these hours are not suitable please contact us for a private transfer quote
Pick-up time for departures is ranging from 3.5 to 5 hrs before the scheduled flight departure time, depending on the flight destination.
If you decide to stay in Geneva before your trip you have the following options:
1. Book a transfer from Geneva Airport at your preferred date at no additional cost. You will need to make your way back to the airport, frequent trains are available.
3. Book a private transfer from your Hotel in Geneva at your preferred date and time at an additional cost.
Please contact us for a quote.
3. Private group transfer bookings from your hotel in Geneva for groups with a minimum of 6 passengers can be arranged at no additional charge during the above core hours.
However, if the above core hours do not suit your group transfer, please contact us for a quote.
There are no pre-trek meetings scheduled on your arrival day in Chamonix and you are free to arrive any time, keeping the above transfer hours in mind.
Rooms are ready for check-in from 4 pm.
For earlier arrivals, luggage storage facilities are available at your accommodation.
Destination Geneva
If you decide to stay in Geneva for a day or two prior to your pick-up, here is a bit of information that you may find helpful. The airport is located nearly 4 km from Geneva city center. It is easily reachable by train or by bus using the united network of public transport Unireso. It takes only 6 minutes from/to Geneva city center by train (every 12 minutes at rush hour). The airport railway station has direct access to the airport Check-in and Arrival levels. All trains stop at Geneva-Cornavin station (city center).
You can pick up a free ticket for public transport from the machine in the baggage collection area at the Arrival level. This Unireso ticket, offered by Geneva International Airport, allows you to use public transport in Geneva free for a period of 80 minutes If you are staying at a hotel, the establishment will offer you the “Geneva Transport Card” that allows you to use public transport in Geneva free of charge during your stay.
Taxi Fares between airport and city range from about CHF 30.00 to CHF 35.00 and depend on traffic conditions, time of day, and the number of passengers. Presently, the fare within Geneva, including the airport, is the amount shown on the taximeter. The driver will request a small extra charge for luggage.
Destination Chamonix
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (usually shortened to Chamonix) is one of the oldest ski resorts in France and it hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924.
Its premium location on the north side of Mont Blanc which towers to 4,810 m (15,781 ft), makes it the perfect base to explore its surrounding peaks and valleys during summer and winter. One can wander or ski the mountains during the day, brunch in the highest restaurant in Europe on Aiguille du Midi (3842 m), explore the vast cable car network, or shake off all limits paragliding straight into Chamonix which awaits with a vast range of accommodation and a great variety of local and international food. We will send you our list of restaurant recommendations and things to do in your pre-departure information.
Weather in Chamonix
Due to its elevation, Chamonix has a humid continental climate. Summers are mild and winters are cold and snowy.
Weather on the TMB
One of the multiple advantages of joining a guided expedition is that your guide will provide you with a daily weather update.
Mountain weather is very volatile and you may experience several conditions on the same day, so it’s essential you adequately prepare yourself with clothing for different weather conditions.
Basically, conditions in June and September are a bit cooler and it is more likely to encounter a bit of remaining snow on the high passes mid to end of June. In July and August days in the valley are warm with temperatures ranging between 20-30 degrees Celsius. Nights can be cooler with temperatures around 10 degrees. Temperatures in the mountains are normally cooler as well and the weather can be labile. Even in August some snow after a storm in the higher parts is not unusual.
For an up-to-date summary of conditions in Chamonix and the mountains please click here or here.
Tour Du Mont Blanc
History
The Tour de Mont Blanc follows some ancient paths which have been used for many centuries. Formerly used as a trade route one will be walking in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and Celtic tribes. The paths of the tour itself were used by Shepherds to move herds between the valleys and for trade between the populations scattered through the valleys of the region.
In 1767 inquisitive Horace Benedict de Saussure firstly completed the Tour De Mont Blanc as we know it now before he claimed the third ascent of Mont Blanc itself.
This changed the cultural attitudes towards the mountains which have been viewed with fear and trepidation. Believed to be home to demons and evil spirits who’d interfere with a traveler’s journey, dangerous places full of the uncontrollable forces of nature.
Today the circular route of the TMB is one of the most popular long-distance walks in Europe and is considered one of the classic long-distance hiking trails in the world.
Packing for Trekking
Equipment
Trekking Gear
Generally speaking, pack as lightly as possible. The weight of your transported bag can not exceed 15kg. Violation of the weight limit might result in an additional fee or the denial of transportation or your bag. You should only bring essential items on the trip.
Your main luggage is transported for you on the trip, so you carry only a daypack.
Suitcases are NOT recommended for this
trip. The luggage or bag must be flexible and contain no sensitive or valuable material or any food product.
Note: Maximum authorised weight per bag on trek is 15 Kg each.
Most travelers carry their luggage in a backpack, although a sports-type/carry-all bag with a shoulder strap would suffice.
We know you might travel to other destinations after your trip. For any extra luggage/ bags not required on the trek, luggage storage facilities are available at
your accommodation in Chamonix (additional fees might apply).
If required, please bring an extra bag or a suitcase to store items and clothing you would like to leave behind at your accommodation in Chamonix during your trek. Please ensure to use a lockable bag.
You also require a comfortable day pack when out walking. Your day pack should be big enough to carry a jacket, rain gear, picnic lunch, water, and personal effects such as camera, sunscreen, water, snacks, blister kit, etc. A rain cover for your day pack is recommended.
Travel Documents
Passport
Air ticket
Travel Insurance Policy
Personal Vaccination Documentation
Credit card
Spending money (cash) in Euro and Swiss Franc (Euro is widely accepted in the villages along the trail in Switzerland).
Personal First Aid kit
Your personal First Aid kit will contain Band-aids, Paracetamol, Deep Heat or other muscle liniment, Blister pads, Crepe bandages, Antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, ‘Imodium’ tablets, Strapping tape (for knees and ankles), Anti-chafing cream, Pawpaw cream, Foot powder if needed, Waterless hand disinfectant, Anti-inflammatory cream, Broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets, Anti-Nausea Tablets.
We also recommend sharing a First Aid Kit if you are traveling in a group.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to, ear infections or sinus problems, bring what you need with you.
Personal Items
- Comfortable daypack with a rain cover
- Waterproof bags for gear moisture protection in day pack while walking (garbage bags are fine)
- Water bottles or Camelbak system ( 2-3 liters recommended. Water is accessible from fountains and hotels along the way.
- Blister kit (see blister management), rehydration salts, and any personal medication you use
- Alarm clock
- Sunscreen, hat, and high UV sunglasses with retaining cord
Clothing
- Well-worn in boots with ankle support, no sneakers on the trek – You are trekking in alpine terrain and will require shoes with a good grip, especially in wet conditions.
- 3 pairs of walking socks
- 3 T-shirts (lightweight quick-drying tech fabric) or long-sleeved Trekking shirts
- 2 pairs of shorts and at least one lightweight pair of pants (for walking in – avoid wearing Jeans!)
- Sleeping gear (lightweight and thermals)
- Warm fleece, sweater, hat, and gloves (cold mornings)
- Waterproof jacket & over-trousers
- Sun hat
- Evening Dinner Wear (smart casual)
Optional For This Trip (unless advised otherwise before your trip)
- Walking poles (good for balance & taking the weight off your knees on descents). Note: poles are a requirement on any trips during which snow might be encountered.
Other Suggestions
- Silk sleeping liner (optional) – good for extra comfort with a blanket
- Trekking scarf (buff)
- Gloves
- Bathers
- Camera
- Spare batteries for camera
- Reading & writing material
- Pair of flip-flops/trainers for anything
- A knee brace or strapping tape – not essential but useful for injury
- Hand sanitiser
- Miniatures of your usual toiletries
- Snacks – though these can be purchased locally
- Book
- Swiss army knife or similar
- Mobile & charger
Recommended equipment for walking on snowfields (more likely in June/ September)
- Walking boots – Boots are higher than shoes and will help protect you from snow wetting your socks while crossing snowfields.
- Trekking Poles (required)
- Short Gaiters – optional for snowy conditions on passes
- Sunglasses
A Note On Your Boots
The TMB is an alpine trek and its conditions vary from well-defined treks to gravel to rocky terrain. Unless you are a very experienced trekker or trail runner we highly recommend wearing walking boots with ankle support on the trek to prevent you from any injuries.
A Note On Your Daypack
Being in high mountains you should prepare for all eventualities with the weather. High altitudes will always be cool and if clouds set in it can be cold & damp. Expect 20-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and at night temperature can fall below 10 degrees Celsius, so mornings can be cold. Better be prepared than sorry. Dress like an onion and take off/put on layers as required and store your gear in your day pack when not needed.
Personal Day Gear
- A comfortable day pack with a rain cover
- Water bottle or Camelbak
- Well-worn in trekking boots with ankle support
- Preferred trekking cloth – shirt, pants, socks, trekking scarf (buff), sun protection hat with cord, sunglasses with retaining cord
- Walking poles
- Trekking gloves for blister protection if you use walking poles
Recommended Contents of your Day Pack
- Blister kit (see blister management in pre-departure information tab), rehydration salts (Hydrolite), and any personal medication you use
- Rain gear (jacket and pants) according to the weather forecast
- Preferred snacks, fruit, nuts, muesli bars, lollies, chocolate
- Fleece or Vest for extra warmth
- Beanie
- Camera (optional)
- Personal spending money
Note: If you have any questions regarding the above list or any other items that you want to ask about please do not hesitate to contact us. We can provide you with additional information at any time.
Supplied Equipment
- Crampons (might be required for the early or late trips in the season)
- Luggage Transfer
- Additional First Aid Kit
Blister Management
Walking for extended hours for multiple days may affect your feet. We have put together some helpful advice on how to care for your feet along the trek.
Money
Currency Exchange
Euros are needed in France and Italy. Take some in cash to avoid having to change money at the beginning of the trip. The currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc. However, along the trek Euro is most widely accepted.
The exchange rate as of the time of writing, 24th April 2024, is:
AU$ 1.00 = € 0.61
AU$ 1.00 = CHF 0.59
US$ 1.00 = € 0.93
US$ 1.00 = CHF 0.91
Where to Exchange
In Chamonix. Please note that Geneva airport is in Switzerland, which is not part of the Eurozone – wait until Chamonix to change money.
ATM Availability
There are a large number of ATM cash points that accept Visa and Mastercards in Chamonix.
Credit Card Acceptance
In major restaurants and shops.
Spending
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Most of your meals are included but you will have to pay for the odd meal, any snacks & drinks en route, or evening drinks. Allow 30 Euro per day. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Any tip that you wish to give your local guides or leader in recognition of excellent service is always appreciated.
Guided Tour
Our Local Guide Team
To ensure an authentic experience No Roads is working with a group of local guides on the TMB. With their knowledge of the area, they help us discover the natural and historical heritage and their personal stories let us immerse in the local culture and with people along the trek.
While you need to ensure to get into an adequate physical shape for the trek your qualified guide will look after all the required preparation for trekking safely in the mountains while you enjoy an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
Your guide will enhance your trip by pointing out those things you might have overlooked, naming the flowers you are admiring, talking about local cultural diversities, and spotting local wildlife along the way.
Tour Du Mont Blanc FAQ'S
TMB – What is so special?
The TMB encompasses a 170 km trek around Mont Blanc Europe’s highest mountain, with its snowfields and hanging glaciers. Breathtaking views, winding paths, green forests, and rolling meadows are just a few of the majestic sights on the trek. It leads through France, Italy, and Switzerland, and country borders are literally crossed on foot.
While the No Roads trek leaves out the section between Chamonix and Les Houches, because it mostly leads along the roadside, you are covering a distance of roughly 160 km. On the tour you will get an insight at the very best each country has to offer, experiencing the trip of a lifetime. Each day of your trek begins and ends in a boutique hotel along the way, tasting local delicacies and encountering the unique culture of each valley and country.
When is the best time to walk the TMB?
Dating back centuries, the TMB is officially open from 15h of June to 15th of September each year. However, there are a few factors in play that will determine when to go. The first is the weather. Usually, high passes can be snowed under even into mid to late June and the snow can return mid to late September. The second factor is European, in particular French holidays. These start late July early August. The trail can get very busy and accommodation is difficult to find at these times. Fond of avoiding too many crowds No Roads has no scheduled public departures in the first part of August.
How hard is the Tour du Mont Blanc?
Hiking the incredible Tour du Mont Blanc is a fantastic way to experience the heart of Europe. Groups can travel at their own pace and leisure, taking frequent breaks amidst the stunning landscape along the way.
However, with its daily elevation gains and losses, it’s far from a walk in the park, and proper physical preparation is essential. You’ll be hiking for at least 5-6 hours each day, carrying a light day pack.
What do I have to carry?
Included in your tip is a daily Luggage Transfer.
How do I train for the TMB?
To prepare safely and effectively you will need to train specifically for this trek in the European Alps for a period of at least five to six months. We suggest that during your training you should undertake frequent training walks, which you will need to progressively increase in hiking time, distance, and elevation gain.
During your walks, you need to familiarise yourself with walking with a day pack (weight of 5-7 kilos) and your walking poles.
We will share a basic training regime as part of our welcome pack to help build your trekking-specific conditioning.
You do not need to be superman to complete the expedition but the fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find it.
Altitude and Distance
The trail hikes around 163 km, with around 10,000m of ascents and descents. The highest point reached on our Tour du Mont Blanc trip is 2532m at the Grand Col Ferret, marking the boundary between Switzerland and Italy. The other key passes we conquer are the Col du Bonhomme (2479m), Col de la Seigne (2516m) and Col de Balme (2191 m). Therefore Altitude sickness is no issue on this trek.
TMB – What’s it like underfoot?
Underfoot you will experience a variety of tracks and trails on the TMB. Typically the mountainous sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc run on single-track paths that can be rocky in places, sometimes with steps but mostly just the bare earth. Mud is not a problem in the same way as on Mountain paths in Victoria, for example! Tracks are also common – perhaps gravel forest roads, ski pistes, or rough tracks for vehicles over agricultural land. There are some sections of country lanes, of which the longest is a 4.5km stretch near Les Chapieux.
Tip: Walking Poles are a good option for this trip and do not only provide you with extra stability but also ensure even blood circulation in your arms.
Why choose a guided tour?
Walking with a Guide provides security and the possibility to discover the natural and historical heritage of the area you visit. A professional guide will provide you with weather updates and trek conditions daily. His great knowledge of the area gives him/her the ability to adapt the route according to weather conditions and group strength.
While you need to ensure to get into an adequate physical shape for the trek your guide will look after all the required preparation for trekking safely in the mountains while you enjoy an unforgettable experience.
What is the accommodation like?
We are not using Rifugios or dormitories along the way to accommodate our guests. This is one area that our trip DIFFERS from many others.
You will have included in the trip 3 nights in Chamonix in a boutique hotel in the center of town. The small hotels used on the trek are locally owned and run. They are very comfortable with a great warm feel and often serve up excellent homemade meals.
Health and Safety procedures along the trek?
No Roads is constantly monitoring and following the advice of government bodies and has developed detailed safety protocols for all guests and team members.
We are also in constant contact with our local partners and teams abroad helping us to monitor and comply with the implemented safety measures and restrictions of each destination. More detailed information will be sent along with the joining information closer to the departure of your trip.s
Terrain Map
The map below shows us distance and time (not including breaks) on the trail. This is a great representation of what the Track is like.
Expedition Grading
High Heart Rate Holiday
The Tour du Mont Blanc is considered on our own expedition scale as a High Heart Rate Holiday. Whether you are pushing up a mountain or doing other physical activities, this holiday is primarily focused on challenging yourself physically. There are sections that will certainly get your heart rate going and other sections that are quite easy. Balance this with well-maintained trails, excellent accommodation and food as well as luggage transfers and this trek fits perfectly into an active holiday category. You need to be of average to high fitness for this expedition or willing to commit to training to take part. Call us if you are unsure of your fitness level and we talk you through what you need to do to be ready.
Fitness
Hiking the incredible Tour du Mont Blanc is a great way to experience the heart of Europe. Groups can travel at their pace and leisure taking frequent breaks set in the beautiful landscape along the way. However, with its daily elevation gain and loss, it is no walk in the park and one should physically prepare for it. The TMB is considered a High Heart Rate Holiday.
If you are planning on hiking the TMB, you must make special efforts to get in good physical condition for the trip. The fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find this expedition.
Every participant should have a health check with a medical physician to ensure that they are in good physical health prior to embarking on their trip. No Roads is not a medical adviser and we take no legal responsibility for medical or other emergencies that may arise on the course of a trek. As the service provider and hosts, we will take all necessary steps needed to evacuate injured or ill clients on the understanding that all costs involved will be paid to us before leaving the country (see Insurance).
To prepare safely and effectively for this trek in the European Alps you specifically need to train for a period of at least five to six months. We suggest that during your training you should undertake frequent training walks, which you will need to progressively increase in hiking time, distance, and elevation gain.
During your walks, you need to familiarise yourself with walking with a day pack (weight of 5-7 kilos) and your walking poles.
We will share a basic training regime and training walk suggestions in Australia as part of our welcome pack to help build your trekking-specific condition.
Health And Safety
All No Roads Expeditions trekkers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/ or the rest of the group, No Roads Expeditions reserves the right to exclude them from all, or part of a trip without refund.
Although there are no specific health requirements for this trip please be aware you need to be in good health to undertake this trip due to the sometimes demanding conditions that exist in these areas. You should consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions to assess your suitability before departure.
Your leader will have a first aid kit for emergencies we recommend that you carry First Aid supplies for common ailments as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time during this trip, and for legal reasons, our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc.
We will do everything we can to support guests that have disclosed a medical condition, allergy, or anaphylaxis, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests in this situation to assist us by reconfirming this information in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable adventure experience.
General Travel Advice
All No Roads staff and teams consider guest safety and wellbeing an absolute priority and always follow the travel advice and guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Smartraveller. To further maintain the safety of our travellers, we promote good personal and hand hygiene along with adherence to safe food preparation practices.
Dietary Requirements
We are able to cater to all common special dietary requirements on this trip. The villages along the TMB are well known for their excellent and typical cuisine influenced by the best from the regions of France, Italy, and Switzerland.
These regional diets include choices of pasta, potatoes, cheeses, cured meats, salads, and fruits.
Due to this heavy gluten, cheese, and meat-based diet, the meal choices for special requirements might be limited depending on your requirements.
Please advise if you have any food allergies we should be aware of, prior to your departure.
Note: The No Roads team will do everything it can to support any allergies which might require a special diet, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made for all meals. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests to assist us by providing this information while traveling, in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you do have an uncommon dietary requirement please contact our office directly.
Immunization
COVID 19
COVID-19-related requirements have been lifted in Europe. COVID, however, just like the flu, has not been erased. Depending on the season and the area of travel you might want to consider a COVID and flu vaccination and other area-specific recommended vaccinations.
You may find helpful information in response to Coronavirus here.
Please click here to identify the country-specific vaccination requirements according to your travel plans.
No further vaccinations are compulsory for entry to the Schengen Zone. However, you should consider MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) and a combination vaccine TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis). We recommend that you ensure your tetanus cover is up to date. Depending on the season and the area of travel you might also consider a flu vaccination and other area-specific recommended vaccinations.
Please consult your doctor on these matters.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) Vaccine– Over the last decade, measles outbreaks have become more common in Europe. Protect yourself with this simple immunization.
TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) Vaccine– Due in part to immigration patterns, some diseases like diphtheria have resurfaced in Europe.
Flu Vaccine– Europe has been hit quite hard by the flu in recent years. If you plan on traveling during a high flu time (September to April) be sure to have the vaccine before you go.
Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations (seriously, vaccinations are one thing that should NEVER be left until the last minute when TIME can truly be your enemy). Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, while some vaccinations should not be given together.
Sustainable Travel
Philosophy
We believe strongly in low impact or rather a positive impact from tourism. Broadly speaking, this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please see our online policy for more details on our social and environmental approach and commitment.
THE ENVIRONMENT
Many of the places you will visit are pristine. As travelers, we should try to have as little impact on these natural environments as possible. As such we recommend the following:
- Please do not dispose of plastic bags and wrappers in the countryside along the way. These may be put in your backpack and disposed of at your local hotel at the end of the day.
- Follow the well-marked walking tracks and avoid walking through grassland and regrowth areas.
- Do not touch or feed any wildlife spotted on the way as you might cause severe harm to the animal.
By abiding by these simple guidelines, you will be protecting the local environment for the people who live there and for their children’s children.
The Local Community
Our philosophy and aim are to pay back to the local communities.
No Roads dedicated to supporting local environmental projects in the places we visit. A $20.00 donation from each expedition booking is going towards a local charity project. For more information please visit our charity tab on the top of each expedition page.
We Are Here To Help!
We have tried hard to provide you with a greater insight into this expedition but we ain’t perfect!
If you do have further questions please contact our expert team members through one of the below channels.
No Roads Expeditions Support Hub
Australia HQ: +61 (03) 95988581
Email: info@noroads.com.au