Internationale groepsreis Tour du Mont Blanc Hotel Trek

Mont Blanc Hotel Trek

The weather was generally fair except for the first, the eighth, and ninth day. Our group consisting of six couples and two singles, were all very nice and cheerful. We enjoyed walking, talking, eating, and drinking. The flowers were less in number than my expectation and lacked in variety. Maybe it was a bit early and they were not in full bloom. I think having free days in between is quite a good policy.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It was when we reached Grand Col Ferret and saw the majestic Grandes Jorasses.

What did you think of your group leader?

He had a keen sense of humour and did his best to answer our questions.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Due to frequent rain, some routes are quite muddy and slippery.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you could add some packed fruit juice to lunch sandwiches, it would be nice. In our former trekkings, we usually had it in the lunch pack.

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

This trip far exceeded my expectations, at the end of the walk i felt a real sense of achievement,  the views were absolutely breathtaking, our group gelled well, the leader Frank was a star. All in all a brilliant holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

From start to finish it is the most fabulous walk i have ever done, every day was equally as good as the previous. The paths and route have been choosen for the best views ever, our lunch stops were always in the most panoramic places. Just fantastic!!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Frank was a brilliant leader, the briefing every evening was informative,  he left nothing to chance, finding out and checking weather and route conditions ,as we did encounter quite a lot of snow, he always made sure everyone was safe and comfortable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be as fit as you can be to enjoy it but if you are thinking about this trip it is a MUSt

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

A wonderful trip, super guide, stunning scenery and flowers, good company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Each view point, each new flower- it was great.

What did you think of your group leader?

Frank was just perfect! A committed walker, easy going, amenable. Please move him to another route next year and tell me which one it is!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Try to come by train- I came from Exeter by train, easily done and a nice night in Paris.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

PLEASE  use some other hotels- some were fine but several were near horribly noisy roads which really detracted from the enjoyment. Les Houches was the pits! I'm sure you could find some simple B&Bs on back roads.   Also- I was the only person to walk the entire tour- you really should include the 2 sections which were missed out. Ensure the fitness of your clients in advance ie warn them that there are some steep ascents and descents.

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

A lot of hard work, good company, reasonably good food (excellent in some cases...), one skimpy breakfast (but I don't remember where...) "scratch a Bell and you'll uncover food," my wife says... , reasonable hotels...And magnificent surroundings unequaled in most of the world.  This latter more than compensated for any  perceived inadequacies

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I don't much do inspirational

What did you think of your group leader?

Outstanding.  4 point oh, as we used to say in the service.  Tough, calm, pleasant, aware, capable...didn't get to see see her responding to any emergencies (which is good...) but I'm sure she'd have done fine.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you're my age (63) you'd better train hard.  I'm in pretty good shape for my age and luckily I found a hike in my neighborhood that covers 4000 vertical feet  over about 12 miles.  I was doing it twice a week (with full pack...rain gear, water, survival gear) before getting underway.  Anything less and I wouldn't have been anywhere near as happy as I was.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Overall, the trip of a lifetime.  In spite of the fact that lots of people do it every year, that doesn't mean everybody can do it.  One of the very last days...I suddenly realized that I had wanted to hike the Alps for as long as I can possibly remember.  It was a bittersweet moment...here we are almost done; I've wanted to do this all my life  and here I am  but we're almost done.   Boo hoo.  I'm ready to rest a week and do it the opposite way!!

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

I was somewhat apprehensive about this holiday. Having poor hearing, but being very independant, I normally walk by myself. So was not sure how I would get on with a group. In the event I had no need for any concern - I met some lovely people (including the trek leader!) who were always thoughtful and helpful. I really enjoyed being with the group and the companionship; but you were free to walk alone if you felt like it.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Without doubt being one of a small group who made the 'optional excursion' to the summit of Tete Nord des Fours. At 9100ft, modest by Alpine standards, and hardly technically difficult to reach, but it was marvellous to achieve and the wide-sweeping views were stunning. A bonus was to learn we were the first group to get there this year - the weather had not been good enough on earlier treks! Going paragliding on the final free day at Chamonix was the icing on the cake - I'd never have had the nerve to try it by myself. Unforgetable. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Graham Hickman worked tirelessly to ensure the party had a good holiday, taking into account their varied abilities and fitness levels. In that, he certainly suceeded. Graham also worked hard to set up the 'optional excursions' (in company with the associated TMB 'camping' group and their leader). He was very enjoyable company, and we all enjoyed chating to him, and hearing his (ahem) tall tales! I would certainly consider myself fortunate to enjoy another trek under his leadership. Finally, and most tellingly, I am certain Graham enjoyed the trek as much as any of us - and it showed.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It helps greatly to be fit, and have your feet in good shape, but the trek is certainly achieveable by anyone who regularly does a day's walking. Go with an open mind, and be prepared for things not going quite to plan. It is an adventure after all, not a package to a Costa! 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I had an absolutely wonderful time in the company of some lovely people. I should have done it years ago! So don't hesitiate, just go for it.

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

This trip more than lived up to my expectation and I had a great two weeks. Fantastic weather and scenery, great hiking, good leadership and very friendly group.  

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the Grand Col Ferret and seeing the view of the Val Ferret opening up ahead of me - simply stunning.  

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just that I would recommend the trip provided people are used to hiking - although there are some steep ascents and descents all are manageable for people used to Exodus B/C grades.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Up there with the great walks

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The stunning views across meadows of wild flowers to the snow clad Alps beyond.

What did you think of your group leader?

Great guy who worried about everything to ensure the trip went smoothly.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Do it.

Amalfi trekking, Pompeii, pasta and wine - a winning combination!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Beautiful scenery - local towns and villages that you would normally miss if travelling on your own.  Cilento has its natural rugged beauty while the walking on the Amalfi coast takes your breath away.   

What did you think of your group leader?

The leader (Marta) was very knowledgeable informative and friendly.  We all felt safe and in good hands.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you go bring your camera with lots of memory cards! 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

 The group was very friendly and the social life was lively at meal and afterwards.  Hotels and the food was good - lots of local produce with local wine.   Occasionally some of the group took a day off (in Amalfi for example) rather than walk that day so the intinery was very flexible.  Most of the group chose to go to Pompeii and Herculaneum on the free day, and for me that was the icing on the cake.

How to walk through three countries in 10 days

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Ascending the numerous Cols to be greeted by fantastic vistas of two different countries at the same time. The views from the Switzerland-Italian border were the most stunning.  And there are opportunities to sample an international range of hot chocolates throughout the trip!

What did you think of your group leader?

Ian was a great leader, very professional and catered for all the group members needs and abilities. He got us all round in one piece.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The Tour Du Mont Blanc is rightly described as one of the most spectacular hikes in the world. However, you have to earn the views! So make sure you know what getting yourself into...there are a lot of uphill and downhill sections which can take its toll on the legs and feet day after day. Being physically fit is one thing, but the trip is so much more enjoyable if you go on a few hill-walking weekends beforehand to prepare you mentally for the challenge. And although the trip notes say that walking poles are recommended, I should say they are essential! Those who didn't bring any ended up buying some en route!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If the Mont Blanc Hotel Trek is not enough of a challenge for you, try the camping option to experience the whole Tour Du Mont Blanc with less sleep and damp clothes!  

A great trek - whatever the weather

The TMB is a classic trek that justly deserves this status. The scenery is varied but always interesting, often spectacular. We walked in hot sun, rain, sleet and snow, the variety of which added to the overall experience. Our group bonded well and our excellent leader helped create a good trekking ambience. The quality of the hotels and auberges varied but they were, on the whole, good; the owners were friendly and welcoming. The food was generally very good, even for vegetarians (with lots of cheese), and plentiful; if we had expected to lose weight on this trip, we didn't do so! Overall it was a very good trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Several: Seeing the view into Italy from the Grand Col Ferret after the climb up. Arriving at the refuge at the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme having walked through the mist and snow. Seeing Mont Blanc across the valley in brilliant sunshine on the last walking day.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader, Frank, was excellent. He is extremely knowledgeable about the TMB and its environs and experienced in walking the circuit and he shared this information freely, highlighting points of interest as we walked. He was very well organised during the trip and provided good briefings each evening for the day ahead. He was also calm, quietly confident, approachable and friendly and contributed a lot to our overall enjoyment of the holiday.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take warm and cool/wet weather gear - you may need both (possibly on the same day). The trek is graded Moderate/ Challenging but overall we thought it was Moderate in grade, since the walking days are paced quite moderately, are not too long, and are punctuated by reasonable length stops at refuges for coffee and/ or lunch on most days.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

A wonderful trip, super guide, stunning scenery and flowers, good company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Each view point, each new flower- it was great.

What did you think of your group leader?

Frank was just perfect! A committed walker, easy going, amenable. Please move him to another route next year and tell me which one it is!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Try to come by train- I came from Exeter by train, easily done and a nice night in Paris.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

PLEASE  use some other hotels- some were fine but several were near horribly noisy roads which really detracted from the enjoyment. Les Houches was the pits! I'm sure you could find some simple B&Bs on back roads.   Also- I was the only person to walk the entire tour- you really should include the 2 sections which were missed out. Ensure the fitness of your clients in advance ie warn them that there are some steep ascents and descents.

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

Three hours into the walk on day 1 and all is perfect, too good to be true as it happens. The company of the group members is good, the weather excellent, the flowers prolific and the view stunning but then I fell from the path. Are exodus good when things go wrong? YES!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Finding out that the Alps is great when you return in your 60s to match up with your memories from years pre children when you were in your 20s. Inspirational is not quite the word, more amazing as the rescue helicopter arrives after only a short while to sort out a broken wrist and winch me off the slopes where I had rolled to transfer me to hospital.

What did you think of your group leader?

Calm, efficient and totally in control to summon help in what could have been a very serious situation.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you have an in date EHIC card (I didn't realise they expired.) your national insurance number is the bit of information you then need to know. Check helicopter rescue higher than 2000metres is included. Mine did have and repatriation to UK was easy with a family member being flown out to escort me home.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I was thinking a review of a holiday which only lasted 24 hours would not be relevant but then I thought it is reassuring that in the unlikely event of things going wrong it's good to know that the travel company you're with will be supportive. I fell, rolling down a mountainside for 30 metres or so. This was a result of a stumble from me, very easy to do and there was nothing exodus or anyone could have done to prevent this simple accident. After the transfer to hospital via helicopter and care in A and E there was an exodus rep to offer support. During my 4 day stay in hospital exodus reps visitedu, sorting out my belongings from the hotel and retriving my rucksack from the helicopter garage and also rang from the London office. The purpose of this review is to say - when things go wrong you can trust exodus to be supportive.

Tour Mont Blanc Hotel

This trip was everything as advertised and more. It was a challenging hike on some days, but the views were worth the effort.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The final day while sitting in the chalet at the top of the mountain sipping hot chocolate and being serenaded by a young lad with a guitar.

What did you think of your group leader?

Kim was a great leader and was very responsive to each individual's quirks.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Refer to the trip notes for what to pack. It is very accurate and while a fleece may seem not to be needed when the weather is sunny and warm it proved to worn when the weather turned to cold and snow - in July!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Great experience

A wonderful hike around Mont Blanc. The weather was kind to us, the food was delicious and the views amazing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking up the trail to the Col de Tricot - it looked so steep at the bottom!

What did you think of your group leader?

Frank was calm and laid back, but always watching out for everyone. A very competent leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is not an easy hike and you need to be an experienced hill walker in order to enjoy this. If you are unable to walk up and down very steep hills/mountains for 3 full, consecutive days at a good speed, then think twice about this trip or start your fitness training now!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

There are no kettles or tea and coffee facilities in any of the hotel/auberge rooms. We found our travel kettle and cups invaluable.

MONT BLANC TOUR (HOTEL)

The Tour of Mont Blanc was a brilliant holiday, and one that I will remember for a very long time. The hotels were varied but conveniently placed so that many could be walked directly to, rather than being bused to at the end of a hard walking day. The rest days were well spaced throughout the holiday. Our Guide/Leader 'Frank' was brilliant, making sure we had fresh produce for our lunch every walking day and that our evening meal was taken care of, taking into account vegetarians and someone who needed gluten free meals. Nothing was too much trouble for Frank. He pointed out and named all the peaks and glaciers that we could see whilst walking. On our free days he suggested places of interest we could visit. I had a lovely time. I couldnt get over the beauty of the Massif, I had to keep pinching myself just in case I was dreaming. Magical!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing Mont Blanc for the first time on the first day, glistening in the morning sunshine.

What did you think of your group leader?

See above. Frank really looked after me and my hushand. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He knew the circuit of Mont Blanc like the back of his hand, he was very knowledgeable of the area and its history.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just do it and enjoy every moment!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

No, I had a lovely holiday.

Tour de Mont Blanc

We had an excellent Tour de Mont Blanc (TMB) in July 2015, enhanced by perfect sunny weather and no rain. Our guide was brilliant and had great knowledge of the walk and the geography, and really ensued we got the most from the experience. The scenery is breath-taking. There are some tough climbs but the guide ensured all of our group completed each walk whatever pace they were comfortable with.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The most inspirational moment of the tour was reaching the Grand Col Ferret and crossing into Italy. The views were amazing and the walk down from the Col into Val Ferret was incredibly scenic. Reaching Brevent at 2,500 metres on the final day after climbing 1,600 metres to complete the walk was truly memorable.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group was led by Rupert Hutchinson. He was a great guide, very knowledgeable and experienced in the TMB. He also frequently described the scenery and route we were taking, and some of the history of how the mountains were formed. He led the group of various walking experiences and always ensured everyone completed each walk at the speed they were comfortable with. In the evenings he hosted us really well at our hotels and restaurants.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't think twice, do this walk with Exodus and you'll enjoy a walk and an experience of a lifetime.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

TMB Hotel Trek

If there is one trek you do in Europe, it has to be this one. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic. Stunning scenery, 3 countries in 2 weeks, great walking and the chance to really stretch the legs! No two days are the same as each walk has different terrain and views. I was there in early July and the wildflowers were amazing throughout.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of the Col Ferret in a snow storm was a highlight for me, and watching the clouds clear as we descended the other side. Actually, making it to the top of all the cols we climbed was pretty impressive! But most inspiring for me was meeting the other people in my group. There was only 5 of us but we all got along really well and each one was an inspiration to me in different ways!

What did you think of your group leader?

Frank was brilliant. He knows the TMB so well having done it many times. He was very thorough in advising us what to expect each day and understood the ability of our group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't under estimate this trek - it is challenging! There are some big ascents and descents so fitness is important. It is worth getting a few practise walks in before you go. Be prepared for all sorts of weather. We got a bit of everything! Sun, rain and snow. Take layers and a good waterproof. I would also recommend a good pair of walking boots with ankle support as some of the trails are rocky.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Make sure you take time to enjoy the scenery. It is just stunning.

Tour Du Mont Blanc

This is a fairly strenuous trek through the amazing setting of the Alps, but with a little bit of fitness preparation it's well within most peoples capability. Our group age ranged from early 50s to 70 and we all finished. Each days walking started at about 08.30 and finished between 16.00-17.00. There was plenty of oportunity to stop and admire the ever changing views and have rest breaks at the mountain refuges where food and drink was always available. At times ascents and descents were quite steep but these were to be expected, ( we were in the Alps after all). As a group we gelled together well which resulted in a couple of apres trek beers each day before dinner. The food and accomodation were first rate, don't expect to lose any weight on this trek the foods to good and there's plenty off it. Overall I can't recommend this trip highly enough if walking is your thing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The ever changing views opening up in front of me were just amazing, resulting in no sooner did I put my camera away than it had to come out again. Also whilst I was there the UTMB was taking place, and to see people running the 170km mountain route I was wakling just left me with a feeling awe (this years winner did it in 22hours, I took 10 days)

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Nick was an easy going guide, who set a pace to achieve the each days trek in a realistic time. He was knowledgeable about the area and regularly pointed out and named peaks, plants and local history. I'd be very happy to be led by Nick again on future treks.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Being super fit is not necessary but improving fitness prior to doing this trek would just make it easier and more enjoyable With regards to kit, good comfortable shoes/boots are essential, and your knees and ankles will thank you for using walking poles. Drink plenty of water, a hydration bladder in your backpack encourages this.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you're considering this trip but not sure if you're up to it, I can honestly say the effort will be worth it.

Tour de Mont Blanc Hotel Trek

We had a thoroughly enjoyable trip even though the terrain could be hard work at times.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being able to complete the Tour and feel proud of the accomplishment.

What did you think of your group leader?

Nick Draper was an excellent leader. He looked after the group and made sure everyone was coping ok. He has an excellent knowledge of the flora and fauna and was happy to point things out.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do follow the advice in the trip notes and on the website to make sure that you have a reasonable state of fitness. Do make sure that you take walking poles as these are essential for manoeuvring up and down the trails.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was a wonderful trip which I thoroughly enjoyed. I think that Exodus should ensure that couples that book holidays together are seated together on all flights.

MONT BLANC HOTEL TREK

Scenery and walks fantastic.Food some good and some not so good. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Border crossing at the col from Switzerland into Italy

What did you think of your group leader?

Good as a team coach getting the best from us. Not so good at realiisng we wanted to enjot it, not go for records. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get fit,

Is there anything else you would like to add?