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Trail Run the Legendary Tour du Mont Blanc
- SELF GUIDED VERSION -

An iconic journey through France, Italy, and Switzerland—on foot, deep in the heart of the Alps, where endless alpine magic awaits.


 Available Self-Guided Dates 2026
We currently offer self-guided departures on the following dates:


July 8 - July 15, 2026 (Classic)

July 18 - July 25 (Deluxe)
Aug 31 - Sep 7 (Classic)


If your preferred dates are not listed, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to explore possibilities as availability changes.

Ready to plan your self-guided adventure?

Because each journey is personalized based on group size, room availability, and preferences, pricing is shared upon request.

A 25% deposit is due to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due 90 days before the start of the tour​

(See the cancelation policy below in the section "Price and Details")

To begin your journey, choose your preferred self-guided date in the ‘Request to Book’ button below

We offer carefully curated self-guided departures on selected dates, with accommodations already secured for you.

Trail Run the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc at your own rhythm, moving through France, Italy, and Switzerland with nothing but the trail ahead of you and every detail quietly taken care of.

Our self-guided journeys are designed for those who crave independence, but value thoughtful logistics, beautiful accommodations, and the reassurance of local expertise.

To ensure the best possible experience, we offer a selection of departures on selected dates, with accommodations already secured along the route.

Why set dates?


The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most sought-after routes in the Alps, and mountain accommodations book out many months in advance. To guarantee comfort, quality, and seamless logistics, we secure a limited number of departures each season.

 

This allows you to enjoy the freedom of a self-guided adventure, with the peace of mind that everything is already arranged.

We handle every detail with care, so you can focus on what truly matters: the trail beneath your feet, the beauty around you, and the transformation happening within.

Even without a guide by your side, you’re never alone on this journey.


From your first message to your final step back into Chamonix, our team is here, with heart, experience, and a deep love for these trails.

Just train, pack your bags, and show up ready to run.

*See more details below.

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Why travel with us

At Vagabond Trails, we’re a family-run business, and that means we care deeply. Every trip we craft carries our personal touch, because we know this isn’t just a vacation. It’s your dream. It’s your time away from loved ones. It’s the result of months of training and planning. We’re here to honor that.

 

We’re dedicated to creating unforgettable, meaningful adventures at fair value, making sure every step, every view, every moment feels worth it. Your trust means everything to us. We’re honored to be part of your journey.

Don’t just take our word for it. Read here what past guests have said about their experience with Vagabond Trails. The memories made, the friendships formed, the transformation felt.. And feel free to reach out to them directly to hear their experiences.

 

Is this self-guided tour right for you?

If you’re a road runner, trail runner, hiker, or simply someone who loves moving through wild places and you already have experience in mountain terrain, then yes, this adventure could be for you.

This self-guided journey is designed for those who:

  • Feel confident navigating with maps or GPS

  • Are comfortable in changing mountain weather

  • Enjoy independence and responsibility on the trail

  • Want the freedom to move at their own rhythm, while trusting that the logistics are taken care of

Your safety matters deeply to us.
If you feel unsure about your experience or confidence in the mountains, we wholeheartedly recommend choosing our fully guided and supported option, where our expert team is by your side every step of the way.

This isn’t about pushing limits. It’s about choosing the experience that allows you to feel strong, supported, and truly present.

What if I am traveling solo?

More than 40% of our guests join solo, and many of them tell us it was the best decision they ever made. You’ll quickly feel part of a tribe of like-minded adventurers.

We don’t charge single supplements for solo travelers, because adventure should be accessible, no matter how you arrive.

I have never done a multi-day trail running adventure

In fact, 95% of the runners who join us have never done a multi-day adventure before.

If you can handle the distance and elevation outlined in the itinerary below, you’ll be more than ready. 

The multi-day journey builds strength and confidence, mile by mile, day by day—and that’s part of both the challenge and the magic.

Bags Transfer

To keep your run light and joyful, we’ll transfer your main luggage from hut to hut daily. All you need to carry is your running vest and the essentials.

 

Classic vs. Deluxe — Two Ways to Experience the Magic

Our CLASSIC trips blends comfort while offering a truly authentic experience.
You’ll enjoy 3 nights in 4-star hotels (in Chamonix and Courmayeur) and 4 nights in mountain huts/refuges in gender-mixed shared dorms. These refuges offer the heart of the TMB experience, cozy and unforgettable. Staying in refuges is a special part of the adventure that many consider the soul of the journey.

Looking for a bit more privacy after your days on the trail?

Our DELUXE trips follow the same breathtaking route with one key difference: each night, you’ll rest in a private twin or double room, shared with just one other person. Most accommodations on the DELUXE experience are 4-star hotels, offering added comfort at the end of each day. Please refer to the itinerary for full details.

Because of the limited availability of private rooms, space on our DELUXE trip is extremely limited, so this option is extra special and books up quickly.

No matter which you choose, this is a journey that will stay with you long after your footprints fade from the trail.

One Last Thing…

Please review the itinerary carefully and make sure your fitness aligns with the daily requirements. If you have any doubts or questions, we’re here to help.

This is your adventure. Let’s make it everything you hope it will be.


Reach out anytime here. We can’t wait to welcome you to the trail.​

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 | Chamonix

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Transfer from Geneva Airport to Chamonix. Depending on your time of arrival you'll have time to walk around the vibrant village of Chamonix, make last-minute gear shopping, or just relax at our chosen hotel in Chamonix. 

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🛏️ Accommodation: Hôtel Le Prieuré & Spa, Lykke, or a similar 4-star hotel (twin or double rooms)
🍽️
Dinner is at your leisure.

 

Day 2 | Les Houches – Les Contamines

You can choose to start running from Chamonix or from Les Houches, which is the official start of the trail and just a short local bus transfer away. From there, you begin your first climb to Col de Voza and Bellevue, where the views open wide across the Chamonix Valley.

You then continue toward the stunning Tricot Pass, with panoramic views of the Bionnassay Glacier, before descending into the fairytale Miage Valley — one of the most picturesque corners of the TMB. We end the day near Les Contamines.

📏 Distance: 11.2 mi / 18 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +5,020 ft / 1,530 m | -4,790 ft / 1,460 m. 
Highest point at 6,922 ft / 2,110 m
🕓 Time: Approx. 4–6 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Classic Option - Hôtel Gai Soleil, La Christiania, Nant Rouge or Gite Le Pontet  (twin, triple, or quadruple rooms). Deluxe Option - Hotel Chemenaz in twin rooms

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner.

  

 

Day 3 | Les Contamines Les Chapieux or Bourg Saint Maurice

Gentle riverside trails leads to the Notre Dame de la Gorge, then climb steadily toward the Col du Bonhomme and Croix de Bonhomme, both over 2,400 meters and often dusted with snow. A long, beautiful descent leads into the remote valley of Les Chapieux, where a warm, welcoming accomodation awaits.

📏 Distance: 15 mi / 24 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +5,413 ft / 1,650 m | -3,083 ft / 940 m. Highest point at 8,000 ft / 2,440 m
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Classic Option -Hotel Angival or Base Camp lodge in shared rooms

Deluxe Option - Base Camp Lodge in twin rooms

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner.

Day 4 | Les Chapieux – Courmayeur

Today, you cross into Italy via the spectacular Col de la Seigne. The morning starts steep, but the rewards come quickly, panoramic views over both the French and Italian valleys. You descend into the flower-filled Val Veny, then tackle the final ridge near Mont Favre before a steep descent into Courmayeur. Choose to descend on foot or take the cable car into town.

📏 Distance: 15.5 mi / 25 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +4,166 ft / 1,270 m | -6,233 ft / 1,900 m. Highest point at 8,200 ft / 2500 m 
📏 Alternative: 13.6 mi / 22 km with cable car (shorter descent)
🕓 Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel Crest et Duc, Hotel Pavillon, Maison Saint Jean or a similar 4-star hotel (twin or double rooms)
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast

Day 5 | Courmayeur – La Fouly

You start the day with a tough vertical climb toward Rifugio Bertone. After a quick and well-deserved Italian coffee, you follow a beautiful, easy, high-level trail toward Rifugio Bonatti. Along the way, you’re treated to unforgettable views of Mont Blanc that will stay with you forever.

From there, you begin the descent to Arnouvaz, continuing on to the lovely Rifugio Elena, where you can enjoy another coffee or a refreshing drink. You then make your way up to the high Grand Col Ferret. At the col, you’ll pause to take in the spectacular views over both the Italian and Swiss valleys.

A stunning singletrack descent brings you to your accommodation for the night at the end of Val Ferret. If you’d prefer to shorten the distance or elevation on this day, there are a couple of options to use public transportation.

​📏 Distance: 18 mi / 29 km
⛰️
Elevation gain and loss: +6,430 ft / 1,960 m | -5,734 ft / 1,748 m. Highest point at 8,323 ft / 2,537 m
📏 Alternative: 8.7 mi / 14 km (with public transport)
🕓 Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel Edelweiss, Hotel Col du Fenêtre, or similar (shared dorms)

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner (in the Classic option)

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast (in the Deluxe option)

Day 6 | La Fouly – Trient

Today you begin with an easy descent through ancient villages like Praz de Fort, collecting spring water from local fountains. You climb to Champex-Lac, then ascend steadily through forest and pastures to Alpage Bovine, before descending into Trient, the final Swiss village, marked by its iconic pink church.

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📏 Distance: 19 mi / 31 km
⛰️
Elevation gain and loss: +4,855 ft / 1,480 m | -5,577 ft / 1,700 m. Highest point at 4,822 ft / 1,470
 m
📏 Alternative: 10.5 mi / 17 km (with public transport)
🕓 Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Auberge Mont Blanc or similar (shared dorms)

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner (in the Classic option)

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast (in the Deluxe option)

 

Day 7 | Trient - Chamonix

This final day delivers spectacular alpine views. Climb toward Col de Balme on the border with France, looking out across the Mont Blanc and Aiguilles Rouges. You descent to Le Tour ​and you can choose to run the final stretch through the valley or hop on the train or bus back to Chamonix, just in time to celebrate this epic journey.

​📏 Distance: 15.6 mi / 25 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +3,608 ft / 1,100 m |
-4265 ft / 1300 m
📏 Alternative: 6.2 mi / 10 km taking the train or bus
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hôtel Le Prieuré & Spa, Lykke, or
a similar 4-star hotel (twin or double rooms

🍽️ Meals included: breakfast 

Day 8 | Chamonix

You enjoy one last breakfast before it’s time to pack up. You'll leave the Alps with tired legs, a full heart, and memories that will last forever.

🍽️ Breakfast included

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A note about fitness: This adventure involves physical activity for around 6 - 8 hours per day. To fully enjoy this experience, you should be in good physical shape, accustomed to running or hiking for 4+ hours per day. Expect ~7 hours of activity daily, with significant elevation gain and loss. Please consult your doctor if you’re unsure of your ability to participate.

The entire tour is done in English.

*We reserve the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, National Parks regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.

This tour is governed by the Terms and Conditions

How Challenging ?

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High effort. This is a challenging adventure where we can expect 6 - 8 hours of running/hiking per day, with up to +6,430 ft / +1,960 m of elevation gain. Previous running experience is required.

Price and Details

The tour includes:

  • Everything described in the tour

  • All of the scheduled activities

  • Transport from Geneva Airport to Chamonix 

  • Transport from Chamonix to Geneva Airport

  • All accommodations during the tour (total of seven nights)

  • 4* hotel in Chamonix ( two nights )

  • 4* hotel in Courmayeur ( one night )

  • Mountain huts or refuges in shared dorms ( four nights)

  • All luggage transfers between accommodations 

  • Most main meals during the tour (7 breakfasts, 4 dinners)

  • Personal attention before and during your trip

  • General Training Plan

  • Expert packing list

  • GPX files

  • A TMB Map

  • Bag transfers

  • Amazing trails & beautiful landscapes

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The tour excludes:

  • Transport to Geneva (e.g. flights)

  • Single room supplement, available only in Chamonix and Courmayeur (if available)

  • First night dinner in Chamonix 

  • Dinner in Courmayeur

  • Insurance. All participants are required to have their own travel insurance appropriate for outdoor sports; such as health, accident, mountain rescue, repatriation, cancellation, personal liability, etc.

  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

  • Expenses for extra activities, such as; massages, spas, sauna, hot tub

  • Any accommodations for extra days in Chamonix

  • Any lifts or cable cars

  • Any private transfer

Price: 

Because each journey is personalized based on group size, room availability, and preferences, pricing is shared upon request.

A 25% deposit is due to secure your spot, the remaining balance is due 90 days before the start of the trip. Once your dates are confirmed your deposit is non-refundable.

Start: Geneva (Cointrin Airport)

End: Geneva (Cointrin Airport)

 

This tour is governed by the Terms and Conditions

Cancellation Policy

  • Trip Pending: Your 25% down payment is fully refundable.

  • Trip Confirmed: Your 25% down payment is non-refundable, but can be transferred to any other Vagabond Trails trip within one year, if you notify us at least 90 days before the trip start date.

  • Within 90 Days of Trip Start: No refunds or transfers available.

Travel insurance is required for all of our trips. Make sure that your insurance covers trip cancellation (in case of any unforeseen circumstances)​.

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