The day is finally here to meet your fellow trekkers at London Heathrow airport and travel to Geneva. On arrival, you will be greeted by the Charity Challenge team and enjoy a transfer to Chamonix. Once there, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your first team dinner. (D).
Accommodation: Camp
Today we are walking on the slopes of the Col de Balme from where we will have views back to Mont Blanc as well as into Switzerland. From the small hamlet of Montroc (1380m) we have a short warm-up walk before the trail turns uphill on a steady zigzag path covering an 880m ascent. As the trees thin out, the views get even better and by late morning we reach Aiguilette des Possettes (2220m) This is a peak from where we are rewarded with a panoramic view over the Chamonix Valley, the Aiguille Rouge national park, and around to Switzerland. The path continues down to the Col des Possettes and then on a steady trail to Le Buet. We then return to camp by valley train. 11km / 6-7 hours of walking. (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Camp
We take the train to Les Praz and then the gondola to La Flégère (1,860m). From this higher vantage point, we will start a circular walk to Lac Blanc (2352m) that affords excellent views of the whole Mont Blanc massif lying to our south. After spending plenty of time soaking up the panorama, we will then descend to Lacs des Chéserys (1998m) where, on a still day, we will see photogenic views of the mountains reflected in the water. En route there is short ladder section to descend. From here, we descend a little further again onto the Grand Balcon Sud and walk back to the La Flégère. What remains of the afternoon is free to enjoy Chamonix centre before returning to our campsite. 9km/6-7 hours of walking (B.L.D)
Accommodation: Camp
Our trek for today takes us to Plan Praz (2000m). Start the day by ascending by gondolier and embarking on an undulating balcony path to Flegere. On the opposite side of the valley lies Mont Blanc and the hundreds of peaks, needle sharp spires and glaciers making up the Mont Blanc massif. Enjoy the spectacular views and lunch. In the afternoon start the 750m descent on a steady track before following a forested trail back towards Chamonix. 11km / 7-8 hours trekking. (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Camp
The Aiguille du midi cable car is a huge local attraction and rightly so. From the valley bottom you will ascend in a cable car to 3842m where you will experience unparalleled views over a sea of glaciers, steep cliffs and sharp peaks. N.B this experience maybe a little daunting for anyone who has an issue with heights . Late morning we will descend to the mid station (2317m) by cable car and follow a beautiful balcony path for approx 4 hours to Montenvers from where we will take a cog rail way to the valley. This is a spectacular day with views you will remember for a life time. 7km / 4 hours trekking. (B,L,D).
Accommodation. Camp
Today we transfer to Argentiere and start our valley trek at 1133m. Walk through alpine Forest with spectacular views of Chamonix valley and Mont Blanc Massif along the way. An undulating trek today, passing beautiful cliff faces, pastures, crossing bridges and waterfalls. The trail will be from the North of the Valley following the site of Mont Blanc summit all the way way back into camp. Trek a river trail into Chamonix town before continuing your final 60minute walk into camp to celebrate your achievements. 12km / 6-7 hours of walking. (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Camp
Proud of having conquered the Highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc, we transfer back to Geneva for our flight back to London. Saying goodbye to new found friends and trekking partners will be tough, so be sure to exchange contact details before parting ways. (B)
BELIEVE >> ACHIEVE >> INSPIRE