Tips from a hiker for booking the best Tour du Mont Blanc accommodation and TMB refuges, including private rooms.
Last year I planned an active reunion for my college friends and I to hike around Mont Blanc (trying to stay in private rooms as much as possible). It was awesome, but a total pain to book, so I wanted to share my research into the the best Tour du Mont Blanc hotel accommodations and the TMB refuges.
How to Book the Best Refuges Tour du Mont Blanc:
- Self booking with a series of spreadsheets (DIY – this article is meant to help you do that).
- Use a Self-Guided Planner who does the logistics for you, but you hike your own hike at your own pace.
- Take a Guided Tour (they do everything and you hike with a small group at the slowest persons pace).
❌ For TMB DIYers, you’ll often find that the tour operators have blocked large sections of beds at refuges, so you’ve got to start early. Sometimes they cancel, so you can always check back with the individual refuge (typically by email, but sometimes phone or on-line portal).
What You Will Learn
- Final Verdict: Ways to Book a Hut to Hut Hiking Trip
- Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation & TMB Refuge Overview
- Suggested Stages
- Arrival: Accommodations in Chamonix
- Stage 1: Accommodations in Les Houches
- Stage 2: Accommodations in Les Contamines
- Stage 3: Accommodation in Champieux (High Elevation)
- Stage 4: Val Veny (Refuges)
- Stage 5: Courmayeur Hotels
- Stage 6: Above Val Ferret(Refuges)
- Stage 7: Accommodations in La Fouly
- Stage 8: Accommodations in Champex
- Stage 9: Accommodations in Trient
- Stage 10: Hotels in Argentière
- Stage 11: Back in Chamonix
- Tips for Staying in TMB Refuges
- Tour du Mont Blanc Hike Planning Details
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Resources
Final Verdict: Ways to Book a Hut to Hut Hiking Trip
Self-Guided Tour Planning Service
- [Self-Guided] - You're on your own once you start
- Must book in Oct to Jan of year prior to hike
- Fully done for you route
- Service finds and books your huts
- Maps provided on app
- small groups (<10 typically)
- local Chamonix guides
- all transfers/breakfast/dinner/accommodations included
- airport transfer included
- stay in the insanely beautiful Rifugio Bonatti and other huts at high elevation
Camping
- campgrounds can be crowded
- reservations often needed in advance
- Wild camping is prohibited or limited by elevation
Morgan’s TMB Experience Youtube
Each stage of the hike has multiple options for you to choose from, allowing you to plan your trip according to your budget (plan 70-130/night). Dorms will be cheaper than private rooms, but sometimes that’s all you can get.
However, it is important to note that accommodations must be booked in advance and will dictate the direction and dates of the hike.
🤨 TBH: You probably won’t get everything you want. It’s a popular trek. And give a break to the high mountain huts, they literally carry food up on their backs to cook for you.
Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation & TMB Refuge Overview
There are several positives and negatives to consider for each tour du Mont Blanc accommodation option, so it is crucial to research and plan accordingly.
Read ➡️ The 7 Best Tour du Mont Blanc Tour Companies [Guided + Self-Guided]
Key Takeaways
- TMB offers a unique hiking and trekking experience due to the flexibility of its accommodations (mix between refuges, hotels, airbnb and camping.)
- For self booking, start at the chokepoints like Bonnatti and Les Chapieux and work around them.
- Wild camping is only allowed is specific elevations and varies by country.
I will start at Chamonix and work around the mountain in the counter clockwise direction sharing hotels and mountain huts you can stay.
Keep reading for a comprehensive guide to the various accommodations available along the TMB route, including their names, average room costs, breakfast options, and websites.
Here’s how us middle aged farts did it 👎🏻
Protip: Tour companies can arrange luggage transfers for you. Unless you have a medical problem, you probably don’t need more than a 20 lb pack and can skip luggage transfer altogether.
This is not a 100% list, there are more options to detour to various villages in the valleys, but I’m showing the most direct route.
Related Posts:
More Tour du Mont Blanc Resources
Suggested Stages
Many people modify their Mont Blanc Tour and stages depending on hotels, hiking tolerance and other factors. There are gondolas and buses that can make this route modified somewhat.
- Stage 1: Chamonix – Les Houches
- Stage 2: Les Houches – Les Contamines-Montjoie
- Stage 3: Les Contamines – Champieux
- Stage 4: Champieux – Val Veny
- Stage 5: Val Ferret – Courmayeur
- Stage 6: Courmayeur – Val Ferret
- Stage 7: Val Veny – La Fouly
- Stage 8: La Fouly – Champex-Lac
- Stage 9 : Champex-Lac – Trient
- Stage 10 : Trient – Argentière
- Stage 11: Tré le Champ – Chamonix
Arrival: Accommodations in Chamonix
Chamonix offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Here are some of the most popular options:
| Name | Average Room Cost | Breakfast | Book a Stay 👎🏻 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heliopic Hotel & Spa | $265 per night | Included | Check Availability |
| Hotel de l’Arve | $96 per night | $14 per person | Check Availability |
| Camping Les Arolles | $5.21 per tent | Not available | www.lesarolles.com |
The Heliopic Hotel & Spa is a popular choice for travelers to reserve due to its convenient location near the train and bus stop, as well as the cable car to Aiguille du Midi. The hotel offers stunning views of Mont Blanc, and rooms come with heated drying racks in the bathrooms.
The breakfast buffet is included in the room price and offers a wide variety of options. The hotel also has a restaurant, Akashon, which requires reservations.
Hotel de l’Arve is frequently used by hikers as a starting or ending point for their TMB journey. The hotel is located near the city center and the Brevent cable car. The rooms are a bit outdated but clean, and the breakfast buffet is available for an additional cost.
Camping Les Arolles is the only campsite located in the center of Chamonix. It offers hot water and free Wi-Fi, as well as covered picnic tables for dining and socializing.
✅ Look for More Accommodations in Chamonix Here.
What to do the day before the TMB??? Fly off the Brevent mountain of course!!!
Treat Yourself ➡️ Book the Heliopic Spa Hotel to Prepare
Stage 1: Accommodations in Les Houches
Mid-Range
Chalet Hotel du Bois is for those looking for a typical 3-star hotel. The hotel has a restaurant and some rooms with balconies. Room rates are affordable, starting at $111 per night. Breakfast is available for an additional $14 per person.
Luxury
Les Granges d’en Haut is a truly luxurious place to stay in Les Houches. With an indoor pool, spa, sauna and luxurious amenities, it could be the perfect launchpad or finish for your TMB.
Camping
If camping is more your style, Bellevue Campsite is conveniently located at the foot of Mont Blanc and near the town and the starting point of the TMB. The campsite offers 20 spots with showers available for $6.94 per adult and $4.05 per child older than six years old. Tent rental is available for $3.47 per tent. Visit their website at www.camping-bellevue-leshouches.com for more information.
✅ Look for More Accommodations in Les Houches.
Stage 2: Accommodations in Les Contamines
Les Contamines offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. From family-owned chalets to camping sites, visitors can choose from a range of options to make their stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Budget
Hotel Christiania is a family-owned chalet with a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. It is located just a 5-minute walk from the village center and is an ideal location for winter sports. The hotel features a great restaurant, The Stem Kitchen, with a fantastic local menu.
| Name | Average Room Cost | Breakfast | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Christiania | $95 | $14 | Check Current Prices |
Top Mid-Range
Chalet-Hotel Gai Soleil is a charming little chalet situated in the heart of Les-Contamines-Montjoie. It has only 19 rooms, offering a unique combination of old farm and modern comfort.
After a long day of hiking, visitors can relax on their balcony and enjoy the beautiful view of the next day’s adventure to Col du Bonhomme. The chalet offers a fixed menu, and visitors can enjoy delicious dishes such as gnocchi with shallots and speck for dinner.
| Name | Average Room Cost | Breakfast | Dinner | Book It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chalet-Hotel Gai Soleil | $162 per night | $16.15 | $29 | Check Current Prices |
Camping Le Pontet
Camping Le Pontet is located in the village at the end of the valley and offers dormitory and room accommodations. Visitors can also bring their tents and camp on the site.
| Name | 2 People Cost | Per Child Cost | Tent | Telephone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camping Le Pontet | $22 | $5 | $5.50 | +33(0)450470404 | www.campinglepontet.com |
Tour du Mont Blanc Refuges and Campsites Les Contamines
There are several refuges and campsites available for visitors to stay at and around Les Contamines, depending on their preferences and itinerary.
Before Les Contamines
If hiking counterclockwise, the following refuges and campsites are before Les Contamines:
Refuge de Miage
Refuge de Miage is a great place to stop for lunch during Stage 1. Visitors can enjoy a delicious lunch and a cold beverage while admiring the view of the Glacier Miage.
| Name | Half-board Cost | Packed Lunch | Telephone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refuge de Miage | $74 in the private room | $9.50 | +33(0)450932291 | www.refugemiage.com |
Refuge du Truc
Refuge du Truc offers camping options for visitors.
| Name | Half-board Cost | Packed Lunch | Telephone | Warden’s Telephone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refuge du Truc | $48.50 | $12 | +33(0)450931248 | +33(0)450470531 | No website |
Chalet des Contamines (FFCAM)
Chalet des Contamines (FFCAM) offers half-board and packed lunch options for visitors.
| Name | Half-board Cost | Packed Lunch | Telephone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chalet des Contamines (FFCAM) | $55 | $11 | +33(0)4.50.47.00.88 | www.chaletdescontamines.ffcam.fr |
After Les Contamines
If hiking counterclockwise, the following refuges and campsites are after Les Contamines:
Refuge Nant Borrant
Refuge Nant Borrant offers half-board and packed lunch options for visitors. The refuge provides a beautiful view of the mountains.
This refuge is notoriously difficult to book.
| Name | Half-board Cost | Packed Lunch | Telephone Summer | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refuge Nant Borrant | $55.50 | $13 | +33(0)450470357 | www.refuge-nantborrant.com |
Refuge de la Balme
Refuge de la Balme offers half-board and packed lunch options for visitors. The refuge offers a private room for visitors to stay in.
The cake here is famous! But in my experience the service was poor.
Stage 3: Accommodation in Champieux (High Elevation)
TMB Refuges
Champieux is a small village on the Tour du Mont Blanc route that offers several accommodation options. This is a chokepoint so get reservations here first.
One of the most popular accommodations in Champieux is LES CHAMBRES DU SOLEIL.
This hotel offers private rooms, a dormitory, and a cottage. The half-board cost per person per night is $104, and a packed lunch can be purchased for $14. LES CHAMBRES DU SOLEIL can be contacted by phone at +33(0)479313022 or email. Their website is www.leschambresdusoleil-montblanc.com.
Another popular accommodation option in Champieux is the REFUGE DES MOTTETS. This newly renovated refuge offers private rooms with showers, private rooms without showers, and dormitories.
The half-board cost for two people per night in a private room with a shower is $220, and a packed lunch can be purchased for $15.
REFUGE DES MOTTETS can be contacted by phone at +33(0)479070170 or by email. Their website is www.lesmottets.com.
AUBERGE REFUGE NOVA is another accommodation option in Champieux. This accommodation offers 15 rooms and 3 dormitories with hot showers, bed linens, and towels provided.
The half-board cost per person per night in a private room is $92, and a packed lunch can be purchased for $15. AUBERGE REFUGE NOVA can be contacted by phone at +33(0)9821264352 or by email. Their website is www.refugelanova.com.
We stayed at REFUGE DE LA CROIX DU BONHOMME. It is an accommodation option for those interested in hiking over the Col de Seine variant or all the way to Rifugio Elisabetta or Combal in Italy.
This refuge offers large dormitories and smaller rooms of 4 and 6 people. The half-board cost per person per night is $64, and a packed lunch can be purchased for $14. REFUGE DE LA CROIX DU BONHOMME can be contacted by phone at +33(0)479070528. Their website is www.refugecroixdubonhomme.ffcam.fr.
| REFUGE Name | Average Room Cost | Breakfast | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| REFUGE DES MOTTETS | $220 for 2 people per night in private room with shower | Yes | www.lesmottets.com |
| AUBERGE REFUGE NOVA | $92 per person per night in private room | Yes | www.refugelanova.com |
| REFUGE DE LA CROIX DU BONHOMME | $64 per person per night | Yes | www.refugecroixdubonhomme.ffcam.fr |
Stage 4: Val Veny (Refuges)
We spent one night in Val Veny at Combal Rifugio after hiking over the Col de le Seine and then we had a shorter day to get to Courmayeur. It was my favorite section to hike.
Rifugio Elisabetta
Rifugio Elisabetta is a popular stopover for hikers, perched over Val Veny. It offers half-board accommodation at $64 per person per night, and packed lunch for $14. Contact them at +390165844080. Visit their website at www.rifugioelisabetta.com.
Cabane du Combal
This was by far our favorite mountain hut. There is a lake in the remnants of the glacier. Cabane du Combal is another gem in Val Veny, located downhill from Rifugio Elisabetta. It offers half-board accommodation at $87 per person per night. Contact them at +3901651756421 (summer) or +393396938817 (winter). Visit their website at www.cabaneducombal.com.
Rifugio Maison Vieille
Rifugio Maison Vieille is a super fun mountain hut, perched over Courmayeur. It offers half-board accommodation and luggage transfer. Contact them at +39 337 230 979 www.maisonvieille.com
This might be the prettiest section we hiked, I would not rush it.
Stage 5: Courmayeur Hotels
It is common to take a zero day in Courmayeur at a nice hotel and enjoy the ambiance under Mt. Blanc. The town is cute, fun and plenty of shopping. Honestly, this would be a great place to spend 2 days.
I am generally opposed to luggage transfer in this terrain (not good for environment, kinda silly cause everyone stinks). But… it would be cool if you could have 2 days in Courmayeur in a nice hotel with your luggage (and fresh set of hiking clothes). Then the luggage would meet you back in Chamonix at the end of the hike.
Hotels in Courmayeur
Budget
Hotel Crampon is located in the center of Courmayeur, steps away from bars and restaurants. It offers a more budget-friendly option than Hotel Grand Courmayeur, with rooms costing $155 per night. Breakfast is included, and the hotel recommends nearby city restaurants for dinner.
Midrange
Hotel lo Campagnar is a great hotel with typical alpine furnishings. Only 15 minutes from the center of town and surrounded by geraniums and lush gardens.
Luxury
Hotel Grand Courmayeur Mont Blanc is a luxurious place to stay, with spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and a huge balcony. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the hotel facilities are top-notch. However, the price is on the higher side, with rooms costing $360 per night. Breakfast is included, and the hotel has a restaurant called “La Fourchette.”
✅ Look for more Accommodations in Courmayeur Here.
Stage 6: Above Val Ferret(Refuges)
Getting into the refgues should be a priority. If you cannot however, there are hotels in the valley below. There is a 40 min trail to hike down from the trail to Lavachey where you can stay if the refuges are booked up.
Rifugio Bertone
Rifugio Bertone is accessible by either Val Ferret or Val Sapin, perched over Courmayeur. It provides stunning views of Mont Blanc and Aiguille Noire. It offers half-board accommodation at $100 per person per night in a private room, and packed lunch for $10.50. Contact them at +393470325785. Visit their website at www.rifugiobertone.it.
Rifugio Bonatti
Rifugio Bonatti was our second favorite hut and is nestled at the foot of the Grandes Jorasses, facing the magnificent glaciers. It offers a more structured and strict set-up than other refuges. It offers half-board accommodation at $93 per person per night in a private room, and packed lunch for $14. Contact them at +390165869055. Visit their website at www.rifugiobonatti.it.
Rifugio Elena
Rifugio Elena is the last refuge on the way out of Italy into Switzerland. It is great for a lunch break or overnight stay. It offers half-board accommodation at $93 per person per night in a private room, and packed lunch for $12. Contact them at +390165844688 or email them at [email protected] Visit their website at www.rifugioelena.it.
Chalet Val Ferret
Chalet Val Ferret is a great spot to spend the night between Courmayeur and La Fouly. It has a nice restaurant connected to the chalet with great food. It offers half-board accommodation at $75-$140 per person per night, and packed lunch for $9.50. Contact them at +390165844959 or email them. Visit their website at www.chaletvalferret.com.
Camping Aiguille Noire
Camping Aiguille Noire is surrounded by meadows and forests in Val Veny. It offers bungalows, apartments, and other options. The cost per adult is $9.25, per child is $7, and tent cost is $7. Visit their website at www.aiguillenoire.com.
Campeggio Monte Bianco the Sorgente
Campeggio Monte Bianco the Sorgente offers a similar cost structure as Camping Aiguille Noire. The cost per adult is $9.25, per child is $7, and tent cost is $7. Visit their website at www.campinglasorgente.net.
Camping Hobo
Camping Hobo also offers a similar cost structure as Camping Aiguille Noire and Campeggio Monte Bianco the Sorgente. The cost per adult is $9.25, per child is $7, and tent cost is $7. Visit their website at www.campinghobo.com.
Stage 7: Accommodations in La Fouly
La Fouly is a small village located at the foot of Mont Dolent and the Tour Noir in the Mont Blanc massif. There are several options for accommodations in La Fouly, ranging from hotels to refuges to camping sites.
Luxury
Hotel Edelweiss offers rooms with balconies that provide breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers. The hotel has recently been renovated and features a very nice restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy breakfast, dinner, and drinks. Breakfast is included in the price of the room, and dinner is available for an additional cost.
- Average room cost: $249 per night
- Breakfast: Included
- Dinner: Restaurant “Edelweiss”
- Book Online Here
Gîte de La Fouly
Gîte de La Fouly can accommodate up to 17 people in various rooms equipped with a shower. The lodge offers half-board options, which include breakfast and dinner, as well as a packed lunch for an additional cost.
- Average half-board cost for two people: $175 – $240 per night
- Packed lunch: $15
- Telephone: +4127565065
- Website: www.gitedelafouly.ch
Auberge des Glaciers
Auberge des Glaciers offers private bedrooms with showers and dormitories. The inn also offers half-board options, which include breakfast and dinner.
- Average half-board cost for a room: $80 – $140 per night
- Telephone: +41277831171
- Website: www.aubergedesglaciers.ch
Camping des Glaciers
For those who prefer camping, Camping des Glaciers is a great option. The camping site offers tent sites and charges per adult and child.
- Per adult cost: $9.00
- Per child cost (older than 6 years): $4.50
- Tent cost: $17 per night
- Website: www.camping-glacier.ch
Stage 8: Accommodations in Champex
Champex is a popular destination for hikers and tourists alike, and there are a variety of accommodations available to suit different budgets and preferences.
| Name | Average Room Cost | Breakfast | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Mont Lac | $378 | Included | Check Availability |
| Hotel Splendid | $208 per night | Included | Check Availability |
| Hotel du Glacier | $188 per night | Included | www.hotelglacier.ch |
| Gîte Bon Abri | $100 in double room (half-board) | Packed lunch: $12 | www.gite-bonabri.com |
| Relais d’Arpette | $105 – $115 in room per person (half-board) | Packed lunch: $14 | www.arpette.ch |
Hotel Splendid offers stunning views of Grand Combin and surrounding valleys, along with a large terrace. Hotel du Glacier is an ideal accommodation for hikers on the Tour-du-Mont-Blanc (TMB) or Walker’s-Haute-Route (WHR).
Gîte Bon Abri is a refuge with private rooms and dormitories, and camping is also available on the property.
Hotel Mont Lac is a luxurious break from the trail. Relais d’Arpette is conveniently located for those interested in doing the Val d’Arpette variant.
All of these accommodations offer breakfast, and some offer additional meals for an extra cost. Packed lunches are also available at most accommodations.
Stage 9: Accommodations in Trient
Trient offers a range of accommodations for tourists visiting the region. Here are some options to consider:
| Name | Average Room Cost | Breakfast | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel De La Forclaz | $206 for two people (half-board) | Available on premises | www.coldelaforclaz.ch |
| Auberge Mont Blanc | $100 per person (half-board) | Packed lunch available for $11 | Check Availability |
| Hotel La Grande Ourse | $120 per person (half-board) | Not specified | www.la-grande-ourse.ch |
| Refuge Le Peuty | $82 per person (half-board) | Packed lunch available for $11 | www.refugelepeuty.ch |
| Refuge Du Col De Balme | $59 per person (half-board) | Not specified | www.refugeducoldebalme.com |
Hotel De La Forclaz offers private rooms, dormitories, and camping options for visitors. The hotel also has a restaurant on the premises. The half-board cost is $206 for two people. To make a reservation, visitors can call +41277222688.
Auberge Mont Blanc offers half-board accommodation for $100 per person. Packed lunches are available for $11. To make a reservation, visitors can call +41277671505.
Hotel La Grande Ourse provides clean and comfortable rooms with a shower, a large kitchen, and a small sitting area. The half-board cost is $120 per person. To make a reservation, visitors can call +41795915091.
Refuge Le Peuty offers a shared dormitory, spacious campsite, or private Mongolian-looking yurt for visitors to choose from. The half-board cost is $82 per person for the yurt. Packed lunches are available for $11. To make a reservation, visitors can call +41277220938.
Refuge Du Col De Balme is located on the pass between Switzerland and France. The refuge offers a dormitory for $59 per person (half-board). To make a reservation, visitors can call +33607061630.
Stage 10: Hotels in Argentière
There are several accommodations available in Argentière for hikers who are planning to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc. Here are some of the options that hikers can consider:
Le Dahu
Hotel Le Dahu is a friendly hotel with a great view. The room cost is $265 per night and breakfast is included. The hotel does not provide dinner, but there are many restaurants nearby.
TMB Refuges Argentière
Gîte La Boerne
Gîte La Boerne offers dormitory accommodations and camping options. Dormitory rooms can accommodate 2 to 9 people per room. For camping, hikers can rent a spot with their own tent or have the refuge provide the tent. The half-board cost is $59 per person in a dormitory and $41 with your own tent or $47 with tent rental. Packed lunch is available for $12. For more information, call +33450540514 or email or visit their website at www.la-boerne.fr.
Refuge du Lac Blanc
Refuge du Lac Blanc offers dormitory accommodations and packed lunch for hikers. The half-board cost is $70 per person in a dormitory and packed lunch is available for $12. For more information, call +33767567414 or email or visit their website at www.refuge-lac-blanc-fr.
Hikers can also check the Tour du Mont Blanc official website for more information on refuges and some of the hotels. For campsites, hikers can use this website as a reference.
Stage 11: Back in Chamonix
Treat yourself at a spa hotel!
Book the Heliopic Hotel & Spa.
Of course you can change this to be faster or slower as you like and use buses and taxis to change the route.
Treat Yourself ➡️ Book the Heliopic Spa Hotel to Recover
Tips for Staying in TMB Refuges
- To keep the sleeping area clean, please remove your hiking boots before entering. You can store your shoes on the main level of the hut where there’s a designated area for them.
- Please avoid putting your backpack on the mattress to prevent any damage or dirt. You can place it on the floor or hang it on a hook instead.
- For hygiene purposes, it’s recommended to bring a sleeping bag liner even though bedding is provided.
- If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let the accommodation know in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
- To ensure a good night’s sleep, it’s advisable to bring earplugs in case of any noise disturbances.
- To keep your feet dry and comfortable inside the hut, it’s recommended to bring waterproof slides or flip flops
- Showers are usually available, but please note that there may be a time limit to conserve water.
- Please refrain from cooking or eating your own food on the premises, as these accommodations usually don’t offer self-catering facilities.
Tour du Mont Blanc Hike Planning Details
When planning a Tour du Mont Blanc hike, it is important to be flexible with accommodation options and hiking dates.
I started with night one, got email confirmation from the owner and then went onto each day. I didn’t get exactly what I wanted but it wasn’t as bad as some other hikers we met that had 30km days to make the reservations work.
Availability of private rooms, dormitories, and mountain huts can be limited, especially during peak season. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Private rooms are available at most hotels and mountain huts, while dormitories are more common at refuges and remote mountain refuges. Single rooms are available at a supplement and are subject to availability.
It is important to manage expectations when it comes to accommodation on the TMB. Mont Blanc refuges may have limited amenities and require camping or shared dorms.
4 and 5-star hotels are available only in the valleys (Chamonix, Les Houches, Courmayeur)
Most accommodations provide basic services such as hot showers, luggage storage, and credit card payment options.
Bathrooms may be shared or private.
Sleeping bag liners are required at some mountain huts and refuges. This is how you prevent carrying around bed bugs. Ear plugs and eye masks also help.
Food
- Breakfast is usually included in the room price and typically consists of cereal, yogurt, cold cut meats and cheese, bread, spreads, boiled eggs, and juices/tea/coffee. Evening meals are not always included in the room price, and some hotels do not have restaurants.
- Preset dinner menus usually include a starter, the main course with salad, cheese, and dessert.
- Half-board options are available at refuges and include breakfast and dinner.
- Dietary requirements should be communicated in advance.
SHORT ON TIME?
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Hike your own hike. If you want to spend less time, then my personal recommendation is to choose Alpenventures Unguided Self-Guided Hut to Hut Hiking Tours, with a self-guided tour, you’ll have all the information and resources you need at your fingertips, so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying the stunning beauty of the Alps.
Find Your TMB Hiking Adventure HEREFrequently Asked Questions
Finding and Booking Accommodations for the Tour du Mont Blanc
There are several ways to find and book accommodations for the Tour du Mont Blanc, including:
- Using online booking platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb
- Contacting accommodations directly through their website or email.
- Working with a tour operator or travel agency that specializes in the Tour du Mont Blanc such as my personal favorite: ➡️ Alpenventures Unguided.
Recommended Stages for the Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc is typically completed in 7-10 days, with each day consisting of a stage of the route. Some recommended stages include:
- Chamonix to Courmauyer (southern half – 5 days)
- Courmayuer to Chamonix (northern half – 5 days)
Most Popular Huts/Refuges along the Tour du Mont Blanc
There are many huts and refuges along the Tour du Mont Blanc route, but some of the most popular include:
- Refuge du Col de Balme
- Refuge de la Flégère
- Rifugio Bonatti
Official Website for the Tour du Mont Blanc Association
The official website for the Tour du Mont Blanc Association is montourdumontblanc.com.
Recommended Fitness Level for the Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a challenging trek and requires a good level of fitness. It is recommended that trekkers have experience hiking in mountainous terrain and are comfortable with long days of hiking with a backpack. It is also recommended to train for the trek by doing regular cardio and strength training exercises.
We hope this guide filled with interesting information about the Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation and TMB Refuges has given you the proper information to plan your next adventure.
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Discover gear that elevates your outdoor adventures. As a physical therapist, I’ve curated product comparisons to enhance safety and enjoyment, perfect for beginners or those with weary knees.
Physical Therapist Curated Gear Guides for Hikers & Skiers
- 🧎 Make your knees feel better while hiking and walking: Best Knee Braces for Hiking
- 🌳Make the downhills stop hurting and hike with more confidence Best Trekking Poles Review
- ⌚ Never get lost on the trail and navigate the wilderness safely with My Review of the Best GPS Watches for Hiking
- ❄️ Go hiking on uneven terrain safely: The Best Hiking Boots with Ankle Support
- Don’t get lost in the backcountry with : My Review of the Best 2 Way Radios for the Mountains
My Guides to Bucketlist Hikes in Europe
Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.