Premium: Hike the French Alps
Hike panoramic trails beneath Mont Blanc, ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car and retreat to exceptional hotels in Chamonix and Annecy
What's Included?
Premium Accommodation
4 nights in a 4-star alpine hotel in Chamonix with views of Mont Blanc and a spa, plus one night in a lakeside hotel in AnnecyYour Standout Stay
Arrive by private boat at a lakeside Belle Epoque hotel in Annecy, a historic property blending period character with modern comfortMeals
All breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches, and 3 dinners, showcasing regional cuisine and enjoyed against an epic mountain backdropActivities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking IML guidesTransfers
Transfers to and from the airport, and everything in betweenSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Think handpicked accommodation - from boutique gems to 4–5 star - with at least one Standout Stay and little touches of comfort along the way.
Tales from the trails
Real people, real adventures.
Ride the legendary Aiguille du Midi cable car to 12,605ft and gaze across a vast sea of glaciers, granite spires, and the entire Mont Blanc Massif
Hike the Grand Balcon Sud above Chamonix Valley, where panoramic trails cut through Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, with Mont Blanc filling the horizon
Descend from the mountains on the historic Montenvers rack railway, rattling down above France's largest glacier, the mighty Mer de Glace
Trade Alpine trails for lakeside terraces overlooking crystal-clear Lake Annecy, arriving at your grand Belle Epoque hotel by private boat
Key Information
Day 1
Touch down and make your way to Chamonix
Arrive at Geneva Airport, where your group transfer driver will be waiting to whisk you across the Swiss–French border to Chamonix, about 1 hour 15 minutes away. Your host will meet you in chamonix at your boutique hotel and assist with check in. After a short information briefing, take some time to settle in and soak up the lively alpine atmosphere of this historic mountain town. This evening, enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner with your group, the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow adventurers over excellent local cuisine and a glass of wine.
Day 2
A spectacular hike along the Grand Balcon Sud
Hiking
After breakfast, take the Flegere cable car high above the Chamonix Valley, gaining elevation quickly as the Mont Blanc Massif comes into view. From Flegere, set off along the Grand Balcon Sud – a spectacular balcony trail above the tree line in the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve. This protected landscape of granite cliffs, alpine plants, and glacial lakes serves up constant views across to Mont Blanc and its surrounding peaks. The trail rolls gently along the mountainside, keeping things varied while serving up uninterrupted views across the Mont Blanc massif. Stop for a scenic picnic along the way, with plenty of time to soak it all in. From Plan Praz, continue by cable car to the summit of Le Brevent for even more sweeping views over the valley, before descending back to Chamonix. The afternoon and evening are yours to relax at the hotel or head out to explore the town.
Day 3
A border-hopping hike to the Col de Balme
Hiking
Fuel up, then head to the quieter end of the Chamonix Valley, where a cable car whisks you up to 7,185ft, rising quickly above the tree line. From here, set off on a circular hike towards the Col de Balme on the French–Swiss border, with wide-open views across the Mont Blanc Massif. A steady climb on well-maintained trails leads to the summit of Arolette (7,644ft), where the Swiss Rhone Valley and distant peaks of the Oberland stretch out on the horizon. Descend through alpine meadows, passing grazing cattle and rustic mountain huts, and stop for lunch at a traditional refuge to sample local cheese and homemade cakes. Continue through flower-filled pastures alive with bees and butterflies before returning to the valley by cable car and heading back to Chamonix. The evening is yours to relax or head out and explore the town’s bars and restaurants.
Day 4
Explore the Aiguille du Midi and hike to Montenvers
Hiking
This morning, head into Chamonix to board the famous two-stage cable car to the Aiguille du Midi. Rising to 12,605ft, this incredible feat of engineering lifts you high into the Mont Blanc Massif, with far-reaching views across France, Switzerland, and Italy. At the top, spend time exploring the terraces and viewing platforms overlooking the Vallée Blanche glacier and surrounding peaks. Descend by cable car to the Refuge Plan d’Aiguille (7,218ft) for a coffee stop with sweeping views back down the valley, before joining the Grand Balcon Nord. From here, hike beneath dramatic granite spires towards Signal Forbes, with standout views of the Aiguille du Dru and the Mer de Glace – France’s largest glacier. To return, hop on the historic Montenvers rack-and-pinion train for a scenic 25-minute ride back to the valley floor. You'll regroup in the evening to enjoy dinner tonight at one of Chamonix's many excellent Savoyard restaurants.
Day 5
To Annecy for lakeside splendour and a hike on Mont Taillefer
Hiking
After an early breakfast, transfer from Chamonix to Annecy, about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. Set on the shores of a clear alpine lake and surrounded by mountains, Annecy is often referred to as the ‘Little Venice of the Alps’. You’ll be dropped in the town center with time for refreshments before boarding a private taxi boat and cruising much of the lake to the village of Duingt, where your circular hike begins. The trail climbs steadily over Mont Taillefer at 2,503ft, revealing magnificent views across the lake and surrounding peaks. Pause for a picnic lunch along the way. Descend back to Duingt and return by boat to the private jetty at your hotel, then check in to your Standout Stay of the trip, the Imperial Palace Hotel, for your final night. Set between Lake Annecy and Charles Bosson Park, this Belle Epoque hotel has lake views and direct access to Annecy Beach. This evening, gather at La Table de l’Impérial for a farewell dinner, where refined French cuisine and lake views provide a memorable setting to round off your week in the Alps.
Day 6
Goodbye Annecy!
Enjoy a final breakfast overlooking Lake Annecy before checking out of the Imperial Palace Hotel. This morning, a group transfer will take you to Geneva Airport, about 45 minutes away, where your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay in Annecy, extra nights can be arranged on request.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Geneva Airport (GVA)
14:30 on Day 1
Ends
Geneva Airport (GVA)
10:00 on Day 6
Transfers
One group arrival transfer from Geneva Airport (GVA) to your hotel in Chamonix is included on Day 1 at 2:30 PM. If you are already in Geneva, you can arrange with your host to be picked up in the city. The journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes and is timed for flights arriving around midday. We recommend booking flights that land no later than 1:30 PM.
On Day 6, one group departure transfer from your hotel in Annecy to Geneva Airport is included at 10:00 AM. If you are staying on in Geneva, you can arrange with your host to be dropped off in the city. The drive takes around 45 minutes. We recommend booking flights departing no earlier than 1:00 PM.
If your flight times do not align with the scheduled transfers, private transfers can be arranged by your host at an additional cost. Please see Optional Extras for pricing.
Travel options
Flights to Geneva Airport (GVA) are available from major UK, European, and US airports. From the UK, flight time is around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. From the US East Coast, direct flights take around seven to eight hours, with longer journey times from the West Coast.
Geneva is also well connected by rail. High-speed trains run to Geneva from Paris in around 3 hours, with onward connections from across France and Europe. If traveling from the UK by train, you can take the Eurostar to Paris and connect to Geneva the same day.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4 – Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Food on this trip focuses on regional Alpine cuisine, fresh mountain produce, and relaxed lakeside dining. Each morning, you’ll have a buffet breakfast at your hotel, including fresh bread and pastries, fruit, yogurt, cheeses, charcuterie, and hot options. Three of your lunches are included (on Day 2, Day 4 and Day 5) – these will be delicious picnics provided in the mountains, with baguettes, local cheeses, cured meats, salads and sweet treats. On Day 3, you'll stop at a traditional mountain hut which serves Savoyard dishes such as tartiflette, melted cheese croûtes or seasonal soups, and homemade cakes, allowing you to choose something tasty to tuck into while enjoying views down the valley. Your three included dinners (on Day 1, Day 4 and Day 5) highlight regional Savoyard cooking, including dishes such as fondue or raclette, freshwater fish from Lake Annecy, seasonal vegetables, and French wines. On evenings when dinner is not included, your guide can recommend places to eat in town and arrange a reservation for the group.
If you have dietary requirements, intolerances, or allergies, please check the FAQ below, ‘Can my dietary requirements be catered for on this adventure?’ for specific advice. Availability of certain foods may vary by destination, so read this carefully before booking to ensure your needs can be met.
What is the accommodation like?
Standout Stay: Belle Epoque Elegance in Annecy
Spend your final night at the four-star Imperial Palace on the shores of Lake Annecy, set between the water and Charles Bosson Park. Opened in 1913, this Belle Époque hotel seamlessly blends period character with modern comforts and offers stunning views across the lake. Classic twin-share rooms are included as standard, some with balconies depending on availability, and all guests have access to the Cristal Spa, which includes a pool, sauna, hammam and ice fountain. Annecy Beach, the town center and local port are just a short walk away.
Central Chamonix Stay With Mont Blanc Views
Spend four nights at the four-star Chalet Hotel Le Prieure in the center of Chamonix. Named after the medieval priory that once stood in the valley, the hotel combines alpine character with modern comfort. South-facing twin-share rooms have en suite bathrooms and balconies overlooking Mont Blanc or the Aiguilles de Chamonix. After a day on the trails, unwind in the Cinq Mondes spa, which includes a hammam, jacuzzi, outdoor sauna and relaxation areas.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip runs during the summer hiking season, typically from June to September, when alpine trails are generally snow-free and mountain conditions are stable. In Chamonix, daytime temperatures in the valley usually range from 64 to 82°F. At hiking elevations of 6,562ft to 7,546ft, temperatures are cooler, typically between 50 and 68°F. Evenings can drop to 46 to 57°F, particularly in the mountains. While summer days are often clear, weather in the Alps can change quickly, so be prepared for light rain and cooler conditions. In Annecy, temperatures are typically warmer, with daytime highs of 68 to 86°F making it ideal for relaxing by the lake at the end of your trip.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Itinerary Activities
- Guided hike along the Grand Balcon Sud in the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve
- Guided circular hike to the Col de Balme on the Swiss-French border
- Guided hike from Plan d’Aiguille to Montenvers via the Grand Balcon Nord
- Guided circular hike over Mont Taillefer above Lake Annecy
- Cable car ascent to Flegere
- Cable car ascent to Le Brevent
- Cable car ascent to the Aiguille du Midi
- Descent on the Montenvers rack-and-pinion mountain railway
- Private boat transfer across Lake Annecy
Guides
- Expert, English-speaking International Mountain Leader(s) throughout
- The guide-to-guest ratio is 1:10, therefore groups of 11 or more will have two IML guides
Lodging
- 4 nights in a four-star alpine hotel in central Chamonix in twin-share en suite rooms
- 1 night in a four-star lakeside hotel in Annecy in twin-share en suite rooms
Meals
- All (5) breakfasts
- 3 picnic lunches
- 3 fresh and seasonal dinners, including a welcome dinner, a dinner in Chamonix on Day 4 and a farewell dinner in Annecy
Transfers
- Group arrival transfer from Geneva Airport on Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Geneva Airport on Day 6
- All local transfers between hiking locations
- Transfer from Chamonix to Annecy
- Boat transfer on Lake Annecy on Day 5
Permits & Fees
- All lift passes and mountain railway tickets included
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Travel to and from the trip
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Meals
Dinner on Day 2 and lunch and dinner on Day 3 are not included.
In Chamonix, your guide can recommend and help arrange tables at excellent local restaurants, from relaxed Savoyard brasseries to more refined alpine dining. You should budget approximately €35 to €50 per dinner depending on your choice of restaurant and drinks.
On Day 4, lunch can be purchased at the Chalets de Balme or in Chamonix town before or after your hike. Allow approximately €15 to €25 for lunch.
Tips
Tips are not included in the trip cost; these are entirely at your discretion. If you would like to tip, the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality.
As a guideline, many guests choose to tip their guide between €40 and €60 per person for the trip.
Personal expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional food and drinks, shopping and laundry.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate coverage for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and gear, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment coverage, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield, both of which offer coverage for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visas
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag or suitcase
- Hiking daypack (25-30 liters)
- Waterproof liner or dry bags for kitbag/rucksack
CLOTHES
- Lightweight insulated jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Fleece or mid-layer
- Lightweight pants/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and hiking socks
- Sleepwear
- Lightweight gloves
- Buff or neck scarf
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Smart casual outfit for hotel dinners
- Well worn-in hiking boots with good grip
- Comfortable sneakers or sandals for evenings
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Passports (and visas if required)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc.)
- Alcohol hand gel
- Water bottle or hydration bladder with capacity of 1.5 to 2 liters
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Walking poles hire
Payable Before Departure
Walking poles hire
… Per person
Post trip accommodation in Annecy (single)
Payable Before Departure
Post trip accommodation in Annecy (single)
… Per night
Post trip accommodation in Annecy (twin/double)
Payable Before Departure
Post trip accommodation in Annecy (twin/double)
… Per night
Pre trip accommodation in Chamonix (single)
Payable Before Departure
Pre trip accommodation in Chamonix (single)
… Per night
Pre trip accommodation in Chamonix (twin/double)
Payable Before Departure
Pre trip accommodation in Chamonix (twin/double)
… Per night
Optional Private Room Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade
… Per person
Private arrival transfer (Geneva Airport to Chamonix, 1-4 persons)
Payable Before Departure
Private arrival transfer (Geneva Airport to Chamonix, 1-4 persons)
…
Private departure transfer (Annecy to Geneva Airport, 1-8 persons)
Payable Before Departure
Private departure transfer (Annecy to Geneva Airport, 1-8 persons)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 66kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Mountain weather can change quickly and conditions in the Alps are not always predictable. Your International Mountain Leader will assess the forecast, trail conditions, and group well-being throughout the trip. If needed, the itinerary may be adjusted for safety or comfort, such as altering a route, switching hiking days, or choosing an alternative trail of a similar level. Thanks to the lift network and range of trails around Chamonix and Annecy, there are usually good backup options. Your guide’s priority is to keep the group safe while ensuring a rewarding experience in the mountains.
Your trip is led by highly experienced and qualified International Mountain Leader guide(s) who speaks English and French. The guide-to-guest ratio is 1 to 10, with a second International Mountain Leader guide joining groups of 11 or more to ensure appropriate support throughout. There is no additional support crew on this itinerary, as you return to your hotel each night and carry only a daypack during hikes.
Yes. This is a hotel-based trip, so you only need to carry a small daypack during each hike. Your main luggage will stay at the hotel in Chamonix and will be transported with you when the group transfers to Annecy. If you are arriving early or extending your stay, most hotels can store luggage for a short period.
At Much Better Adventures, we aim to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe and inclusive. Options can vary by location and lodging, and in some areas, choice may be limited. The following guidance has been provided by your host to help you understand what is possible on this trip. Please read it carefully before booking to ensure you are prepared.
After booking, complete your passenger information form as soon as possible with any dietary requirements. These details are shared with your host and guide to allow planning in advance. You should also remind your guide on arrival so they can take your needs into account from the start.
French cuisine is shaped by regional produce and traditions, with meals often centered on meat, cheese and bread. In cities, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are increasingly available, but menus can be more limited in rural areas. Planning ahead and speaking with your guide will help, as they can assist with translations and liaise with kitchens where needed.
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian
Vegetarian diets can be catered for if your host is informed in advance.
Vegan
Vegan diets can be difficult to accommodate. While your host will do their best, options may be limited and repetitive. You may wish to bring additional snacks or supplements.
Kosher
Certified kosher kitchens and supervision are uncommon and cannot be guaranteed unless confirmed in advance. Vegetarian or vegan options may be the most suitable alternative.
Halal
Certified halal options may not always be available. Vegetarian or vegan alternatives may be the most reliable option.
INTOLERANCES
Gluten-free
Gluten-free diets can be catered for if your host is informed in advance.
Lactose-free
Lactose-free diets can be catered for if your host is informed in advance.
ALLERGIES
Provision for allergies, including severe allergies, may be limited or unreliable. Please contact our Customer Experience team before booking to discuss your requirements. This allows us to assess suitability based on the severity of your allergy, available food options and access to medical care. While your guide can help communicate your needs, you remain responsible for managing your allergy during the trip.
Tap water in France is safe to drink, and you can refill your bottles at your hotels each morning. On hiking days, there are usually opportunities to top up at mountain refuges, cafes or lift stations along the route. Your guide will advise each day on refill points and how much water to carry. You should bring a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder and plan to carry at least 1.5 to 2 liters while hiking, depending on the weather.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
This trip is graded Level 3
Moderate
For active people who want to explore more wild and adventurous places
Multiple days of steady activity, four to five hours long
You will be hiking for approximately 3 to 4 hours on most days, covering distances of 4 to 6 miles on well-maintained alpine trails. Daily elevation gain is up to 1,247 feet, ...
Browse all our Moderate trips
Your next adventure is out there
There's a level for everyone – find your match
No Reviews yet
This trip is brand new
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
We've got your back
Book with confidence and peace of mind.
DEPARTURE DATES
Saturday 5th September 2026
to Thursday 10th September 2026
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off
Saturday 12th September 2026
to Thursday 17th September 2026
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off
Saturday 26th June 2027
to Thursday 1st July 2027
Saturday 3rd July 2027
to Thursday 8th July 2027
Saturday 24th July 2027
to Thursday 29th July 2027
Saturday 7th August 2027
to Thursday 12th August 2027
Saturday 4th September 2027
to Thursday 9th September 2027
Saturday 11th September 2027
to Thursday 16th September 2027
Don't see a date you like?
Get an email alert when new dates are added.
