Mountain Bike Tour Du Mont Blanc
When we decided to take up a secondary residence in the Chamonix Valley, we didn't just buy into the real estate, but also the many activities available in the area. And with that came the beginnings of a hit list; must do's, and near the top of that was the MTB TMB or the classic Tour Du Mont Blance by mountain bike (VTT)..
However, we were surprised the apparent lack of information about the route, especially in view of the internet and the ease of self publication. But we persevered, and in 2008 set off on one of the best week's of biking fun we're in a very long time.
As no definitive route exists, you can just make up your own. Clockwise, or counter clockwise; it's up to you, and we've heard arguments in favour of both. But if you're going to set off with your bike and start slogging up a hill, it's quite often nice to know that you can ride down the other side. So, for the sake of those that follow, here's a little information about the way we did it.
Overview
- 5 days, 4 nights
- 8800m of altitude gain
- Some tough carry climbs, but excellent moderately technical downhills.
- Physically challenging, but highly recommended and heaps of fun!
For a slight more long winded account of our trip see our StayInChamonix Blog.
For some pretty pics, see our MTB TMB Gallery Pages.
Day 1: Argentiere to Les Contamines
The key to the day is how you cross the big ridge above Les Houches that opens up the descent to St Gervais and Les Contmines on the other side. Not sure that we took the best route, but it worked.
- Right bank of the river from Argentiere.
- Through Chamonix and out towards Les Gaillands on the other side, staying on the off road track by the river.
- Head over the motorway once at Les Houches station. Road towards Vaudagne.
- Track then carry climb path to Col de la Forclaz.
- 600m of downhill to the tarmac, any which way!
- Gentle up valley ride to Les Contamines.
A fairly easy (as they go) introductory day!
Day 2: Les Contamines to Les Chapieux
Our original plan was the double pass over the fairly direct walking route to Chapieux but our biking hotel owner suggested an alternative which proved to be entertaining!
- Mostly ridable to within spitting distance of the Col du Bonhomme (2329m)
- Veer SE and descend steeply, following the watercourse towards La Gittaz
- Hit the tarmac at Lac de Roseland
- Road climb over the Cormet de Roseland (1968m)
- Look out for the final off road descent to Chapieux!
Day 3: Les Chapieux to Val Ferret
Some pain to be felt this morning!
- Road climb to La Ville des Glaciers
- Off road then carry climb to the Col de la Seigne (2516m)
- Big views and big downhill into Val Veni
- Hang a right and climb to Rifugio Col du Checroui for extra views/pain.
- Descent and cross to Val Ferret (hotel at end of the tar)
Day 4: Val Ferret to Champex
Another rude awakening with a long carry climb after breakfast but the downhill on the other side will set you up well for lunch!
- Carry climb to the Grand Col Ferret (2537m)
- Fast and none technical descent to La Fouly
- Follow the TMB signed path for excellent off road adventures in the woods.
- 500m road climb on easy gradient to Champex
- Beers by the lake!
Another cracking day.
Day 5: Champex to Argentiere
The final leg back to Argentiere. A stiff climb , but you'll be in the pub by mid afternoon.
- Gentle downhill start
- Stiff carry climb to gain the superb views on the Bovine Route
- Best singletrack descent through trees to Col de la Forclaz (another one!)
- Road descent to Trient
- Left turn at La Joux and gentle climb on then off road to Col des Possettes
- Big finish to Le Tour and Argentiere
One of these days I'll get the route onto a map. However, in the meantime, please feel free to contact me if you'd like to hear any more about our experience on the mountain bike Tour du Mont Blanc.
