Sale
7 Days
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
In the heart of the western Pennine Alps is one of the most beautiful alpine border regions between Switzerland and Italy. Spanning the valleys of Bagnes and Aosta, the Grand Combin mountain rises to an altitude of 4314m at its peak. The surrounding valleys and high passes represent ideal hiking conditions and are an excellent alternative to the busier trails around Mont Blanc. The area is rich with wildlife and the outstanding views of snowy peaks, tumbling glaciers and verdant lowlands will not fail to impress. A further highlight of the week long hike is crossing the historic Great St Bernard Pass (2469m), and to be greeted by our accommodation at a centuries old travellers hospice.
Switzerland & Italy
Fionnay/Mauvoisin
Mauvoisin
21kg of CO2-e PP per day
(125kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1
Meet at Mauvoisin near Fionnay and hike to Chanrion (6hrs)
We start our amazing trek in the Bagnes Valley at the foot of the Barrage de Mauvoisin in Switzerland mid morning. The trail skirts then ascends to the top of the dam and its large lake that is situated between Mont Blanc and the Grand Combins to the pass, the Col de Tsofeiret (2,640m). The scenery is at its best as we are immediately surrounded by glaciers and snowy peaks. Following a steep descent we arrive at our overnight refuge. Distance 13km/8mi, +1250m/4125ft, -427m/1400ft,
Meals: L,D
Day 2
Hike via the Fenetre Durand trail to the Aosta Valley in Italy (6-7hrs)
After breakfast, we take the Fenetre Durand trail that will lead us between the Gelé and April peaks, until we reach the top of the pass (2797m) marking the border with Italy. As you descend into Italy, you’ll reach the charming Rifugio Champillon in a peaceful alpine setting. Distance 22km/14mi, +1225m/4042ft, -1218m/4020ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Hike through the Aosta Valley with views to Mont Blanc (5-6hrs)
A great day trekking in the verdant Aosta Valley, with Mont Blanc in the backdrop. At the foot of the Vélan peak, we ascend a winding trail to the Champillon pass (2708m). A lovely descent takes us through alpine meadow towards the beautiful old alpine village of Etroubles. Overnight 10th Century monastery with shower. Distance 9km/5.5mi, +412m/1360ft, -1500m/4950ft,
Day 4
Cross the Great St Bernard Pass (2469m), overnight hospice (5-6hrs)
This is our last day hiking in Italy. We make our way along quiet trails towards the famous Great St Bernard Pass (2469m), marking the border with Switzerland and Italy and home to the famous St Bernard dogs. We will spend the night in the atmospheric Great St Bernard Hospice. Distance 18km/11mi, +1356m/4475ft, -150m/500ft
Day 5
Return to Switzerland and hike through the Entremont Valley (6-7hrs)
Today is a long day, but also one of the most beautiful. As we return to Switzerland we take a bus down to the Entremont Valley to Bourg St Pierre. From here we ascend until we reach the Col des Mille. Our refuge tonight has breath-taking views over the valley and further to Mont Blanc. Distance 12km/7.5mi, +1130m/3730ft, -320m/1050ft
Day 6
Traverse the eastern slopes of the Grand Combins (6hrs)
This morning we start hiking along the eastern slopes of the Grand Combin mountain, on an exceptional hiking day. Green pastures and blue glaciers greet us up until the Avouillon pass. In the afternoon, we make our way down the Corbassière glacier, which cascades from the Grand Combin massif. Overnight refuge. Note: you will need to carry your overnight requirements today in your day pack - there is no luggage transfer to the Panossière Hut. Distance 14.5km/9mi, +1016m/3353ft, -955m/3151ft
Day 7
Return to Mauvoisin with views of Corbassière Glacier, trip concludes (4hrs)
On the last day of our trek, we continue to admire and explore the Corbassiere glacier with it imposing seracs. In the afternoon we descend to our starting point in the Bagnes valley. The trip concludes mid afternoon, enjoy a farewell glass of Fendant to celebrate. Regular buses are available from Mauvoisin to Le Chable where you can catch the train to Martigny. 9km/5.6mi, +300m/990ft, -1426m/4700ft
Meals: B,L
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 4 - Includes daily hikes of up to 7 hours and ascents of up to 1356m in a day. 9-15km per day is hiked except on day 2 which is 22km. There are some stages with steep uphill, descents, and at times sections of the trail will require care. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced hikers only. Early in the season (June) you may encounter snow on the passes which may be quite deep and make the trip more challenging. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds. If for any reason during the trip the guide considers, in his or her sole discretion, that your fitness or mental or physical health is likely to cause danger, distress or annoyance to others, he or she may direct you not to continue and you must follow the guide’s instructions. In this case you will not be entitled to any refund. As with all our moderate to challenging programs, we expect participants to be regular outdoors people, enjoying aerobic sport around four or five times a week over some period of time. Preferably this has been a long term interest but if not, you have set a program of fitness preparation with at least three months lead in time to your trip. The fitter you are for your trip, the more of a holiday it will be. Activities as close to the actual activity on your trip are the best training; in this instance walking with and without a pack. This builds leg strength, aerobic capacity and confidence in your ability to travel comfortably with a pack for extended periods. At the same time, you are also comfortable with the layers you like to wear and footwear. Important note: good quality walking boots with ankle support are a pre-requisite for your participation. Runners or shoes without ankle support are not suitable for the conditions encountered on this walk.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
|
Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.
self guided walk
hotel
8Days
Moderate to Challenging
hotel, b&b
Moderate
5Days