The Col des Fours
The Col des Fours is a spectacular variant of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable hiking experience. Sitting at an impressive altitude of 2 665 m8 743 ft, the Col des Fours is a favourite destination for hikers seeking stunning mountain scenery and a true immersion in nature.
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What You Need to Know
This variant of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers a more demanding but also more rewarding hiking experience, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains that are simply unmatched. However, it is essential to check the weather and trail conditions before committing to this route, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Hikers who have taken this route speak of the wild and unspoilt beauty of the area, the physical challenges of the climb, and the satisfaction of overcoming those challenges to reach the summit. Whether you are an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or a nature lover eager to explore mountain landscapes, the Col des Fours is a destination not to be missed.
Download the stage GPX track: https://www.visugpx.com/URWmZQHWLG
The initial route of this stage coincides with the traditional path, starting at the Refuge de la Balme and climbing over a distance of 4 kilometres with an elevation gain of 650 m2 133 ft to reach the Col du Bonhomme.
As you progress towards the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, you will face a choice - take the variant that leads to the Col des Fours. This detour takes you to an altitude of 2 665 m8 743 ft, revealing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Before setting off on this variant, it is crucial to check the weather forecast and assess trail conditions. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter numerous snow patches, making some sections potentially dangerous, even in summer.
Once at the Col des Fours, a 5-kilometre descent with an elevation loss of 900 m2 953 ft will bring you to the Ville des Glaciers. Enjoy a break at the alpine pasture to savour local cheese - a regional speciality - before continuing on your way to the Refuge des Mottets.
The Refuge des Mottets marks your last stop before crossing the Italian border the following day. It is advisable to book your place if you plan to spend the night at the refuge. Note that bivouacking on the refuge grounds is not permitted, and the area is quite large. However, you can pitch your tents before reaching the refuge, near the ruins (about 5 to 10 minutes before the refuge), or after it by starting the ascent towards the Col de la Seigne, just beyond the first “peak” visible from the refuge.
Update, 18 May 2026 (from the warden of Refuge des Mottets): bivouacking is prohibited throughout the Vallée des Glaciers. The only authorised bivouac spot on this stage is the communal bivouac area in the village of Les Chapieux.
Points of interest: Col du Bonhomme, Col des Fours
Where to sleep?
- Refuge des Mottets
- Communal bivouac area in Les Chapieux village (the only authorised bivouac on this stage)
Practical info
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From our partner · 400+ Verified Traveler Reviews
"An absolutely stunning trek. The itinerary was perfect, and our guide was extraordinary - knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate about the mountains."
"Well-marked trails crossing three countries with breathtaking scenery. The refuges were comfortable and the mountain cuisine was excellent."
"Flawless organization from start to finish. The luggage transfer allowed us to hike light and truly enjoy every stage of the journey."
"An unforgettable trek around Mont Blanc. Every day brings new surprises - from Swiss glaciers to Italian pastures and the French Aiguilles."
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"The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic for good reason. The variety of landscapes between France, Italy and Switzerland is remarkable."
"A fantastic experience. The stages are well balanced, the refuges welcoming, and the views of the Mont Blanc massif are unforgettable."
"An extraordinary journey that showed us Mont Blanc from every angle. The logistics were perfect and we only had to enjoy the trail."
"Superb organization. The variant options allowed us to adapt the trek to our fitness level. I recommend without hesitation."
"A complete and well-thought-out tour. The crossings between the three countries offer a unique cultural and scenic diversity. A must-do at least once in a lifetime."
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