The Col de Tricot
The Col de Tricot is a popular variant of the Tour du Mont Blanc, offering a unique and memorable hiking experience. Situated between the mountains of Mont Vorassay and Aiguille de Bionnassy, the Col de Tricot is a challenge for hikers, but rewards them with stunning views of Bionnassay, its glacier, Mont Blanc and the southern tip of the Aiguilles Rouges.
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What You Need to Know
The Col de Tricot variant starts at Les Houches and leads to the charming village of Les Contamines-Montjoie in France. This variant is particularly popular for the diversity of landscapes it offers, passing from valley to valley with breathtaking panoramas over Chamonix, Bionnassay, Miage and Contamines-Montjoie.
However, this variant should not be taken lightly. It is considered a challenge, requiring good physical fitness and adequate preparation. But for those ready to take on the challenge, the Col de Tricot offers a rewarding hiking experience and views that are well worth the effort.
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The first stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an interesting variant that crosses the Col de Tricot, adding an element of excitement to this alpine hike. The first half of the stage is identical to the traditional route, with a walk of about 2h30 from Les Houches to the Col de Voza. This section of the trail includes about 660 m2,165 ft of elevation gain over a distance of 6 to 7 kilometres, depending on your starting point.
Once at the Col de Voza, you will have the choice between following the classic route or taking the variant via the Col de Tricot. If you opt for the latter, prepare for about 600 m1,969 ft of additional elevation gain over a distance of 6 kilometres to reach the Col de Tricot. This variant offers a more demanding but also more rewarding hiking experience, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.
From the Col de Tricot, several options are available for the rest of your day. You can continue to the Refuge de la Balme to spend the night, which extends your day but also offers a more rewarding end to the day. Alternatively, you can head down to Les Contamines to shorten your day and spend the night there.
Points of interest: Col de Voza, Col de Tricot at 2,120 m6,955 ft
Where to sleep?
- Refuge de la Balme
- Bivouac area at the Refuge de la Balme
- Option to stop earlier at Les Contamines (campsite or hotel)
Practical info
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