Like the Tour du Mont Blanc this is another must-do classic in the Alps, just more demanding.
This multi-day route connects Chamonix and Zermatt, two of the Alps most famous resorts, and is known as the Haute Route or high route, as it passes beneath the summits of some of the highest peaks in the Alps.
The original itinerary is a strenuous high-level traverse over many glaciers, however it is also possible to follow a walker’s version using a network of paths to traverse the Pennine Alps, some of Europe’s most impressive mountains, from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn. It is a 10-day trek or a 2-week trip with travel and rest days.
Climbing Mont Blanc is a major achievement in anyone’s book. At 4810 m (15,780 ft) it is necessary to have the correct equipment and the right people with you.
All commercial ascents must have a qualified mountain guide and on the ascent day the ratio of two clients to one guide. It is also necessary to acclimatise to the altitude. To do so you’ll need to spend a few days on the glacier sleeping in mountain refuges whilst also learning how to use your climbing equipment.
Anyone who would enjoy climbing Mont Blanc would also enjoy many Swiss 4000 m peaks.