Just as skiers descend on the Chamonix-Mont Blanc region in winter, as do hikers in the summer. With panoramic views of the Alps and the valley below, it’s no wonder this area is so popular with walkers, as the rewards are incredible. Chamonix has over 350km of well-kept hiking trails, with routes available for all levels of difficulty. If you’re hoping to ascend some of the peaks or marvel at the beautiful lakes and glaciers of the Chamonix region, take a look at Marmotte Mountain’s top walking routes.
Aiguilles Rouge Nature Reserve – Lac Blanc
If you’re looking for stunning summer views then this walk should be top of your list. From the Flegere cable car lift, the hike to the lake is around two hours and manageable for most levels. On reaching the lake you’ll enjoy breath-taking views of Mont Blanc, Aiguille du Midi and it also overlooks the Mer de Glace. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic, or alternatively there is also a hut to buy food and refreshments.
Aiguilles Rouge Nature Reserve – Lac des Cheserys
Another beautiful lake trail, this one is accessible from Argentiere. Take the right-hand path towards the Bois du Plagnolet, and then follow the steep uphill trail into the forest. It takes two hours and a half to reach the lake with panoramic views of Mont Blanc.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The ultimate hiking tour of the Mont Blanc massif, this 170km trek takes a number of days to complete. Hardcore hikers can finish the tour in four days if pressed for time, but if you want to take a slower pace and really enjoy the scenery – perhaps you’re a hobbyist photographer – then you can spend 9-11 days on the TMB. There are two options – you can do the trails self-sufficiently, with camping gear and your own food, or you can choose to stop off at mountain huts. If you’d like mountain hut accommodation then it’s advisable to book a bed during the busy season of July-September.
Mont Blanc Summit Climb
If taking in the Alpine trail of Mont Blanc isn’t enough, and you want to reach the summit, then you’ll need to be extremely fit and have mountaineering experience. There are two ways to climb Mont Blanc – the Cosmique route or the Gouter hut route, which is the most popular. Choose which route you’d prefer to conquer the highest mountain in Europe, and reserve a spot at the refuge hut.
If you’d like to relax in luxurious accommodation during your hiking holiday in Chamonix, take a look at our range of beautiful mountain chalets.