The Tour du Mont Blanc circles the Mont Blanc massif through the Chamonix, Courmayeur and Verbier valleys, crossing three countries and staying almost entirely above the treeline with the massif in view for much of the route. It's one of the most popular alpine treks in the world.
Route map
Terrain
High alpine terrain with several passes over 2,500m, well-maintained mountain paths, and a network of refuges spaced roughly a day's walk apart. Waymarked throughout, though some passes involve exposed scrambling sections and can hold snow early in the season.
Tips
Refuges get fully booked well in advance in July and August — reserve months ahead if walking in high season. No visa or border formalities are needed crossing between France, Italy and Switzerland within the Schengen area. Most walkers take 10–11 days anticlockwise from Les Houches.
Permits & access
No permits required — refuge reservations are essential in peak season, but this is a matter of booking rather than official permission.