How many kilometers is the Tour du Mont Blanc?
The waymarked main route is about 166 km long according to our calculation based on the OpenStreetMap track; guidebooks give 165 to 170 km depending on the variants taken. It involves about 9,500 m of ascent in total (nearly 10,000 m with the high variants).
How many days does it take to hike the TMB?
The classic itinerary has 11 stages. Well-trained hikers complete it in 7 to 9 days, while others take 12 to 14 days including a rest day. See our itineraries from 3 to 14 days.
What is the highest point on the TMB?
On the main route, it is the Grand Col Ferret (2,537 m), on the Italian-Swiss border. The Col des Fours and Fenêtre d'Arpette variants climb to 2,665 m.
When should you book huts for the TMB in 2027?
Bookings for summer 2027 opened on October 15, 2026 on the official platform, montourdumontblanc.com. The Bonatti, Elisabetta and Lac Blanc huts are booked directly. Book as early as possible for July and August. Details in our hut booking guide.
Is the Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme open in 2027?
No. The hut has been closed for renovation since August 17, 2026, and its reopening has been announced for 2029. In 2027 and 2028, split the second stage at Nant Borrant or La Balme.
How much does the Tour du Mont Blanc cost?
Allow €65–95 per night for a dormitory bed with half board, or about €1,000–1,300 for 11 days staying in huts, including packed lunches and extras. See our budget guide.
Which direction should you hike the TMB?
Most hikers walk it counterclockwise from Les Houches, the direction used in guidebooks and most route descriptions. Walking clockwise means you meet groups head-on rather than following them, and sometimes gives you better availability in the huts.
Can you hike the TMB without booking?
In high season it is very risky: huts are fully booked months in advance, and bivouacking is prohibited or tightly regulated along most of the route. On top of that, the French municipalities are planning compulsory booking for every night from 2027 (proposal in progress).
Can you wild camp on the TMB?
Only under certain conditions: in France, only in authorized areas within the nature reserves (often booking required); in Italy, bivouacking is prohibited below 2,500 m; in Switzerland, it is prohibited in principle, with regulated exceptions. See our bivouac and camping guide.
Is the TMB difficult?
It is not technical, but it is physically demanding: an average of 15 km and 850 m of ascent per day for 11 days. A few sections call for sure-footedness (the Aiguillette d'Argentière ladders, the high variants). See getting fit for the TMB.
When is the best time to hike the TMB?
From mid-June to mid-September. September is an excellent compromise (fewer people, often settled weather); in late June, snowfields may linger on the cols. See when to go.
What documents do you need for the TMB?
A valid identity card or passport for EU citizens, as the route passes through France, Italy and Switzerland. Also take your European Health Insurance Card and insurance that covers rescue, which you have to pay for in Switzerland.
What number should you call in an emergency on the TMB?
112 in France and Italy, 144 on the Swiss section (Valais). See our safety and rescue page.
Is there a free GPX track for the TMB?
Yes: we offer a free GPX track of the full loop, each of the 11 stages and the variants, taken from OpenStreetMap with elevation data.
Should you take Swiss francs?
It is a good idea: Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF). Euros are often accepted, but you get your change in francs, and some huts do not take credit cards.