Congratulations! This is one of the most iconic hikes in the world and you’ll love it, but you’ve got to ditch the luggage and take a light pack. So, where to store your luggage in Les Houches?
I’ve got you covered based on my experience hiking the TMB with friends in perfect July weather. The TMB is a hard beginner trek made easier without a heavy pack.
What are the Luggage Storage Options in Les Houches?
When planning your Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) hike (one of the best trekking trails in Europe), knowing where you can store your luggage in Les Houches is essential. The options range from hotel services to dedicated luggage facilities, ensuring your items are secure while you enjoy your trek.
If you’ve driven a car, you can obviously store your luggage inside your car at the designated parking lot. It’s located under the Prarion Gondola.
Otherwise ask your hotel that you’re staying the night before if they will stow your luggage. If not, you can also have your luggage transferred (sometimes by mule).
Enjoy your TMB hike! I know we did!
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- Geneva to Chamonix Airport Transfer
- TMB Shortcuts and Gondolas
- Best Time to Hike Tour du Mont Blanc
- TMB Packing List
Hiker Recommended Luggage Storage
When planning your Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) hike, you’ll appreciate the convenience of hotel luggage storage options in Les Houches. These services allow you to enjoy your trek unencumbered by excess baggage.
Where to Store Your Luggage in Les Houches for TMB
There are more options but these are the highest recommended.
1. Rocky Pop
At the Rocky Pop Hotel, you benefit from a luggage storage facility that is largely complimentary. This service is ideal if you plan to head out on the TMB trail and return to the hotel afterwards. Note that while the service is free for guests, a minority of scenarios may incur a fee.
2. Hotel DuBois
Hotel DuBois offers secure luggage storage for hikers, ensuring peace of mind as you traverse the TMB. Their storage services cater specifically to guests, and it’s recommended to confirm availability in advance to guarantee space for your belongings.
3. Eelway
Eelway luggage storage offers a convenient online booking service to store your skis, sticks, suitcases, and more. Their customer service is available 7 days a week to answer any questions you have about utilizing their storage facilities.
Hotels and Accommodations
Many hotels and accommodations in Les Houches offer luggage storage for their guests. If you’ve booked a room, inquire about this service as part of your reservation. Some Airbnbs may also provide a space to keep your bags but confirm this feature during the booking process. Effective communication with your host is key to ensuring that luggage storage is arranged promptly and to your satisfaction.
Dedicated Luggage Services
For a focused solution, dedicated luggage services offer secure storage for your possessions. Companies like Eelway provide this service, often with the flexibility of around-the-clock access. These services are typically known for their kindness and good value, making them a reliable option for hikers who need peace of mind for their luggage during extended walks.
Transport and Transfer Services
In addition to static options, some services offer luggage transport and transfer from Les Houches to various points along the TMB. This can be a convenient option if you require your luggage to be moved from one accommodation to another. Book these services ahead of time to ensure availability and promptness in delivery.
Planning Your Tour du Mont Blanc Trek
Embarking on the Tour du Mont Blanc requires careful preparation to ensure you can fully appreciate the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences the trek offers. Consider both the path you’ll take and the best time to travel to optimize your trekking experience.
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
- Cheapest Option
- Most Freedom
- Take side excursions as you like
Camping
- campgrounds can be crowded
- reservations often needed in advance
- Wild camping is prohibited or limited by elevation
Itinerary and Route Overview
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a celebrated long-distance trek that will lead you across France, Italy, and Switzerland. Your adventure begins in Les Houches, a common starting point for the circuit, and spans approximately 170 kilometers (110 miles). Navigation is straightforward with well-marked trails, and numerous refuges along the way offer rest and respite.
You can expect to cover diverse terrains, including alpine meadows and rocky passes such as the challenging but rewarding Col du Bonhomme. With its counter-clockwise route, the trail provides continually changing vistas, ensuring that each day is unique.
Seasonal Considerations and Booking
The ideal time for trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc is during the summer months, typically from late June to early September. This period offers the most stable weather conditions and open facilities.
Since it’s a popular route, it’s crucial to book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re planning to trek during peak season in July and August. For luggage storage solutions in Les Houches, explore options such as local luggage transfer services, ensuring a lighter pack as you hike.
Keep abreast of the latest trail updates for any changes in the path, particularly due to weather, which can affect mountain pass accessibility. Booking your accommodations ahead of time allows you to secure spots in the refuges and gives structure to your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning your hike around the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), knowing your luggage storage options in Les Houches can give you peace of mind. Here are some specifics to keep in mind to ensure your belongings are safely stored during your adventure.
What are the options for luggage storage in Les Houches while hiking the TMB?
Your options for luggage storage in Les Houches include hotels or campsites where you might be staying. They may store your luggage if you book accommodations with them. Additionally, certain transfer companies might offer this service, so it’s worth inquiring with them.
Can I find any luggage storage services at the Chamonix train station?
There are no dedicated luggage storage services at the Chamonix train station. Your best bet is to check with local hotels or luggage services like Eelway for secure options to store your belongings.
Are there secure luggage lockers available near Les Houches?
It’s important to note that there are no luggage lockers in Les Houches itself. You will need to arrange storage through a service or accommodation provider before your hike.
Which cafes or businesses in Chamonix offer luggage storage facilities?
Some cafes and businesses in Chamonix may offer luggage storage facilities. You will have to contact them directly to find out their terms and availability for storing your items.
How does Eelway luggage storage work for storing bags in Chamonix?
Eelway luggage storage offers a convenient online booking service to store your skis, sticks, suitcases, and more. Their customer service is available 7 days a week to answer any questions you have about utilizing their storage facilities.
Can I store my luggage at Geneva Airport before traveling to Les Houches?
Most flights will arrive at Geneva Airport, where you may have some time before heading to Chamonix. However, there are no luggage storage services directly at the airport, so you’ll need to consider other options before setting off to Les Houches.
Planning your trip?
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- 🥾 Get off the beaten tourist path with Fully Planned and Booked Self-Guided Hut to Hut Hiking Trip
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More TMB INFO
We hope this guide on Where to Store Your Luggage in Les Houches for the TMB hike has given you the proper information to plan your visit to this iconic trail.
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.