The Mt Blanc massif
Mt Blanc is the highest mountain in Western Europe. The massif is roughly 60km (37 miles) (N-S) by 20km (12 miles) (W-E) and its circumnavigation, the famous Tour du Mt Blanc, covers some 160km (100 miles). Walk around the massif in 6-10 days, passing through France, Italy and Switzerland.
The walking tour of Mont Blanc can be completely self-sufficient: you carry all your own food and camping gear. Alternatively the TMB can be done using hotels and mountain huts with vehicle support. That way you can really enjoy the scenery, take lots of photos and walk each day with just a light pack.
When to go and what to see on the Tour of Mont Blanc
In general, Mont Blanc mountain huts are open from mid-June until the first or second week in September. It is advisable to reserve a bed, particularly in the high season of mid July to mid August.
Early in the season is the quietest and most beautiful but beware of old snow on the higher paths which could be icy and dangerous and would make an ice-axe essential.
Wildlife
Have a look at the Chamonix.net nature page for more information on wildlife you might encounter on the Tour of Mont Blanc.
Chamois, deer, eagles and a range of beautiful alpine flowers can all be seen and photographed.
