18 June - Walking below the Chamonix Needles      B/L

Following breakfast, we take a cable car from the center of Chamonix, whizzing 6600 feet up the mountain. Up top, we traverse high above the Chamonix Valley and below the majestic peaks of the Mont Blanc massif known as the ‘Chamonix Aiguilles’ (’Chamonix Needles’). The 3.5 mile walk is a good test of the rugged Alpine terrain, which is so famous to the Mont Blanc region, and the views of the Chamonix valley and surrounding peaks are breath-taking. 

We’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch with local specialties at a superb view-point pitched above the massive glacier known as the ‘Mer de Glace’ (‘Sea of Ice’). 

After lunch, we descend to the Montenvers mountain train, where we can visit an ice cave dug into the glacier, exploring the ‘Glaciorium’ for an interactive display on the formation and geography of glaciers. We have the option of enjoying a cold drink on the terrace of the historic Montenvers Hotel, which was built in 1880 to cater for the early mountain tourists in the Victorian time. Then, we descend back to Chamonix by way of the 120-year-old cogwheel train and return to our hotel. 

At night, we are free to explore the many bars and restaurants that Chamonix has to offer. 

Overnight- hotel in the center of Chamonix. (4 nights)

Hiking details – approximately 6 km with 350 m ascent, around four hours. 

19 June - Lac Blanc High Level Hike  B/L

This morning, we make the short trip to the hamlet of Les Praz on the outskirts of Chamonix where a cable car takes us nearly 6600 feet up the mountainside. Today, we are on the sunny side of the Chamonix valley, with breathtaking, unrestricted views of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe, for the entire day! We are hiking 3. Miles through a nature reserve, and it is not uncommon to spot Ibex, chamois or marmots. Our six-mile walk takes us to the beautiful Lac Blanc (the white lake), which is actually a magical turquoise color. The views from this alpine oasis are among the best in the world. 

You will love your daily picnics. At the lake, it’s time to enjoy another picnic lunch prepared by our guides by the scenic shoreline. There’s a mountain refuge nearby so we’ll be able to finish off with a coffee and home-made blueberry tart. After lunch, we hike back to the cable car, taking in the scenery as we go. 

Our evening is free to explore the many bars and restaurants that Chamonix has to offer. 

Overnight hotel in the center of Chamonix. (4 nights)

Hiking details – approximately 10 km with 400 m ascent, around five hours 

20 June - Free day in Chamonix  B

You have earned a day off! On popular request, we have a free day in Chamonix - there’s just too much to do in the mountain capital of the world. The possibilities are endless, whether you are looking for spa relaxation, retail therapy, adrenalin rush, museums or more magical mountain views. 

How about visiting the QC Terme spa for a bit of pampering at the foot of Mont Blanc? Or stepping into the void, a suspended glass box which will make you feel like you are floating, at nearly 4000 meters (13,000 feet)!?!?! Or perhaps a paraglide jump, river rafting, climbing or mountain biking. If that all sounds too exhausting, Chamonix has a plethora of cafés, restaurants, museums and shops! At night, members are free to explore the many bars and restaurants that Chamonix has to offer. 

Overnight hotel in the center of Chamonix. (4 nights)

21 June - From France to Switzerland. Welcome to Switzerland   B

Today, we leave Chamonix behind us and start our 3-day ‘expedition’ from France, via Switzerland, into Italy, tracing the famous “Tour du Mont Blanc.” We catch a short transfer to the top of the Chamonix valley, where a cable car saves us from walking up through the ski area. We quickly, leave the ski area and the Chamonix Valley behind as we hike over the Balme mountain pass, which forms the border between France and Switzerland. 

Now in Switzerland, we hike through high mountain pastures amidst stunning alpine scenery, eventually reaching the small hamlet of Trient. In Trient, our vans are waiting for us to take us further down the mountain to the Roman town of Martigny - the gateway to the Grand Saint Bernard pass. 

In Martigny, we will have time to explore the Roman amphitheater or, if you are a dog lover, a visit to the Saint Bernard dog museum, dedicated to this Swiss national dog. At night we are free to explore the bars and restaurants in Martigny.

Overnight hotel in the center of Martigny.

Hiking details – approximately 6 km with 400 m ascent and 600 m decent, around 5 to 6 hours. 

 22 June - High Mountain Pastures to the Lakeside Village  B/L

We drive to the Forclaz mountain pass with its old inn, known to for its history of hosting smugglers of goods between Switzerland and France. From here, we continue our journey by foot through the Swiss Alps on a longer trek. A narrow trail on the steep hillside snakes steadily up through woodland and mountain pastures. As we reach the top of our ascent, we are greeted by magnificent views straight up the large Rhone valley, which is gloriously surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps. Just below us are the Bovine Mountain pastures, which are still in use. We’ll be greeted by a farmer at his rustic guest house where we can enjoy coffee and homemade cake before commencing our descent. 

We’ll make our way through more woodlands, across gushing streams and, eventually, to a small valley that leads to the village of Champex. Champex is a stunning Swiss alpine village dropped in the middle of a glacial bowl and located on the shores of an alpine lake. This is the perfect place to relax after a day on the trails. 

This evening is free to explore the traditional restaurants in Champex. 

Overnight: hotel in the center of Champex. 

Hiking details – approximately 15 km with 600 m Ascend and 800 m descent, around six hours 

23 June - From Switzerland to Italy. Welcome to Italy B/L/D

Our final hiking day awaits. We start with a scenic transfer through Swiss countryside and old farming villages until we reach the top of the Ferret Valley. Today, our objective is the Grand Col Ferret mountain pass which forms the border between Switzerland and Italy. The hike to the mountain pass is straight out of The Sound of Music and a great opportunity to get up and close to some very friendly Swiss cows. 

We pass through an old dairy farm, where we can stop for refreshments, which includes delicious cheese from the very same cows we met earlier. Upon reaching the Gran Col Ferret pass, we’re treated to spectacular views across the Italian Alps and the dramatic Italian side of the Mont Blanc massif. So, it’s farewell Mont Blanc and welcome Monte Bianco. The descent takes us via an Italian mountain hut, which gives us an opportunity for our first taste of Italian espresso - probably the best coffee we’ve had on our trip so far. 

Almost too soon, the final descend is over and we jump on our transfer to our end destination Courmayeur. Courmayeur is the chic and charming little brother of Chamonix, with a cute pedestrian shopping street and cobblestoned square. It would be rude not to try a homemade gelato ice cream from the local gelatteria, or maybe a celebratory Aperol at the historic Caffee della Posta. Either way, we will finish the trip with farewell dinner together in this charming village below Monte Bianco.

Hiking details: approximately 13 km’s with 800 meters ascent and 800 meters descent. Hiking time 6 hours. 

Overnight: hotel in the center of Courmayeur. 

24 June - Depart Courmayeur B

After breakfast, it’s time to check out and leave Mont Blanc and the Alps behind us. Thanks to the Mont Blanc tunnel, Geneva airport is easily reached in about 1.5 hours from Courmayeur.

Your Mont Blanc Adventure Guide

Meet Your Leader: Joey

Joey isn't just another tour leader – he's your Swiss Army knife of adventure expertise. With a background that includes summiting Kilimanjaro and conquering the Inca Trail, he brings over 30 years of fitness industry experience to your journey. A certified rehabilitation fitness therapist, Joey has tackled everything from 24-hour endurance races to 100-mile trail runs. He's here as your GTL (Gracious Trip Leader) to ensure seamless coordination between guides and our group.

Before You Go

Essential Prep

• Passport must be valid 6 months after return with two blank visa pages
• Store a digital passport copy in your email (US embassies now accept these)
• Download Mobile Passport app for faster US Customs
• Alert your bank and credit card companies about travel dates

Fitness Requirements

Start training now – this isn't your average nature walk. Build up to:

• March: 10 hours of walking weekly
• May: 2-3 hours daily
• Focus on undulating terrain
• Days 1-3 are moderate; Day 4 is challenging (no turning back!)

Travel Details

• Dates: June 16-24, 2025
• Arrival: Land in Geneva by noon on June 17
• Meeting Point: Swiss Chalet Café (outside baggage claim)
• Return: Depart Geneva June 24 (after 12 noon)

Packing Smart

Keep it light – 40 lbs total (one medium suitcase + carry-on). Essential gear:

• Base layers and mid layers
• Wind/waterproof jacket
• Hiking pants and shorts
• Broken-in hiking boots
• Quality socks
• Wide-brim hat
• Gloves and sunglasses
• Day pack
• Water bladder (recommended)
• Collapsible poles

Pro tip: Don't splurge on expensive gear. Chamonix has Europe's best sports shops with great prices.

During Your Trip

Accommodations

You'll stay in cozy 3-4 star alpine hotels. Each day includes:

• Hotel breakfast
• Picnic lunch during hikes
• Free evenings to explore local towns
• One farewell dinner

The Hiking Experience

• Daily walks: 4-6 hours (up to 8 hours possible)
• Max altitude: 9,000 feet (AMS shouldn't be an issue)
• Groups split into comfortable pace levels
• Cable cars assist with major ascents on three days

Stay Connected

• WiFi available at accommodations
• Use WhatsApp, iMessage, or Facebook Messenger for free communication
• Check your phone carrier's international plans before departure

Local Flavors

Expect hearty alpine cuisine:

• Traditional fondue and raclette
• Local charcuterie
• Savoyard specialties
• Mountain berry desserts

Important Notes

Insurance

Mandatory evacuation coverage required. Consider "zero trip cost" insurance for cost savings.  (google it)

Extending Your Stay

Switzerland's excellent train system makes it easy to explore further. Popular options:

• Interlaken region
• Lucerne
• Zurich
• European connections (Paris, London, Amsterdam)

Note: For independent travel arrangements, consider services like Viator rather than AFS.

Emergency Contact

AFS: 770-432-8225 (call/text)
Email: [email protected]

A Complete Guide to Alpine Trekking: Physical Preparation and Packing Essentials

The key to an enjoyable mountain trek isn't just having the right gear—it's showing up prepared. Let's break this down into what really matters.

Physical Preparation: What You Need to Know

Most people get this wrong: they assume hiking in the Alps is just like walking on a treadmill. It's not. You're dealing with constant ups and downs, rocky terrain that fights your rhythm, and thin mountain air that makes every step harder. Add a heavy pack to that equation, and suddenly that 13-mile day feels more like 20.

Here's what works: Start training several months before your trip. While hitting the gym helps, nothing beats actual hiking. Can't access mountains? No problem. Here are your next-best options:

• Take long walks with your loaded pack
• Find the tallest building in your city and tackle those stairs (fun fact: climbing 2,500 feet equals two trips up the Empire State Building)
• Mix in cardio work like cycling or running to build stamina

For overseas travelers: jet lag is real. Try to arrive a few days early if you can, and prioritize sleep and hydration before your trek begins.

Packing Smart: The Essentials

Your gear can make or break your trek. Here's what experienced guides swear by:

Clothing Layers

Start with moisture-wicking base layers (never cotton), add a warm fleece mid-layer, and top it off with a lightweight waterproof shell. For bottoms, convertible hiking pants offer the most versatility.

Footwear

This is crucial: break in your boots weeks before your trip. Even the most expensive boots will betray you if they're fresh out of the box. And don't skimp on socks—wool or synthetic blends are worth every penny. They're actually more important than the boots themselves for preventing blisters.

Smart Accessories

• A buff (the Swiss Army knife of hiking gear)
• Trekking poles to save your knees
• Wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
• At least one liter of water per four miles of challenging terrain
• A water filter for longer treks
• High-calorie snacks (aim for 150 calories per ounce)

The Not-So-Obvious Essentials

Keep your important documents in a waterproof container, pack basic first aid supplies (especially blister treatment), and yes—bring a trowel and hand sanitizer. Nature calls, even in nature.

The Tour du Mont Blanc: A Classic Alpine Trek

If you're looking to put all this preparation to use, consider the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB). This legendary trek circles the Mont Blanc massif, crossing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. At 4,810 meters, Mont Blanc towers as the Alps' highest peak, and the trail that surrounds it has drawn hikers for centuries.

The route's history stretches back to 1767, when Swiss physicist Horace Benedict de Saussure first documented a complete circuit. Before that, local farmers and traders used these paths to move between valleys, creating the network of trails we enjoy today.

The trek has evolved from its humble origins as a scientific expedition route into one of the world's most celebrated long-distance hikes. Each summer, the historic Chamonix valley fills with trekkers ready to spend up to two weeks circumnavigating this massive peak.

Remember: the mountains don't care how stylish your gear is or how many miles you've logged on a treadmill. They care if you're prepared. Take the time to train, pack smart, and respect the terrain. Your body—and your experience—will thank you for it.