---
title: "The Col des Fours"
type: "1day-itinerary"
variante: true
lang: "en"
distance_km: 13
elevation_plus_m: 1080
elevation_minus_m: 877
difficulty: "Easy"
duration_days: 1
url: "https://www.tmb-guide.com/en/itineraries/col-des-fours/"
description: "Take on the Col des Fours variant of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from the Refuge de la Balme to Les Mottets, for stunning views and a memorable hike."
---

# The Col des Fours

The Col des Fours variant, between the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme and the Ville des Glaciers, offers exceptional panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif.

## Overview

The Col des Fours is a spectacular variant of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable hiking experience for hikers seeking stunning mountain scenery and a true immersion in nature.

## Stats

- Distance: 13 km
- Elevation gain: 1080 m
- Elevation loss: 877 m
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 1 day
- Variant route: yes

## Need to know

## 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. However, it is essential to check the weather and trail conditions before committing to this route: before mid-June, the Col des Fours keeps snowfields on its north side.

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.

## Practical info

- Start: Refuge de la Balme
- Finish: Refuge des Mottets
- Distance: 13 km (8.1 mi)
- Elevation gain: 1,080 m (3,543 ft)
- Max altitude: 2,662 m (8,734 ft)

## Day-by-day itinerary

### Day 1: Refuge de la Balme - Les Mottets (via the Col des Fours)

- Distance: 13 km
- Time: 5.5 h
- Ascent: 1080 m
- Descent: 877 m
- Max altitude: 2662 m
- Min altitude: 1673 m

Route from the Refuge de la Balme to Les Mottets via the Col des Fours variant.