Day 1

 

Arnouva to Champex– 28km height gain of 1500m and descent of 1800m.

A short trek up to the Refugio Elena, then a steady climb up to reach the Grand Col Ferret (2530m), where you pass into Switzerland. At the top enjoy the view and take some well-earned photos. There are great views of the summit of Mont Dolant which is the only peak in the Alps to have the border of three countries at its summit (France, Italy and Switzerland). Over the pass, the route winds through peaceful alpages and wooded glades to reach La Fouly which is a picture postcard village and 'chocolate box' chalets. From La Fouly you trek along the beautiful Swiss Val Ferret, then the track winds up the ‘Sentier des Champignons' or route of mushrooms where there are many carvings and wooden sculptures. Champex is beautiful and is nestled alongside the lake that gives the village its name.

 

Day 2

Champex to Valoricine– 28km, a height gain of 1762m and descent of 1975m.

Hike the peaceful Bovine trail through meadows above the treeline, overlooking Martigny and the Rhone valley with its vineyards covering the lower slopes. You descend to the peaceful Swiss village of Trient where Mountain Mindset will be there to provide an opportunity for a short rest before you continue on the Variente de Valoricine to descend through the ski resort into France. As you cross into France and descend into Valoricine you are blessed with views of the Aiguille Rouge and alpine meadows as the end of this big day gets closer. We will provide transport for those who cannot continue the trek from Trient or those who do not pass through Trient at a safe time period, to be determined by the mountain conditions forecast on the day.

 

Day 3 

Valoricine to Chamonix – 19km, a height gain of 1000m and descent of 1202m.

With the end of this epic challenge now within reach, you will set off from Valoricine passing the little village of Buet, following the turquoise mountain stream all the way to Col des Montets and continue up the final climb to La Tete aux Vents. As you traverse this balcony you get the most amazing views of the Mont Blanc Massif that make this trip worth the effort. From here the long descent into the Chamonix Valley begins as you pass through alpine meadows and tightly packed forest, with the occasional squeak from the mountain Marmots hiding among the rocks. As the town of Chamonix welcomes you into the final steps of your journey, Mountain Mindset will be there to help you celebrate this event and guide you into your hotel for a well-earned celebration.