Run the Tour du Mont Blanc

Run one of the world's most iconic long-distance mountain trails on an unforgettable journey around the Mont Blanc massif. The Tour du Mont Blanc travels through France, Italy and Switzerland, crossing high Alpine passes, beautiful valleys and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Europe. This isn't a race. Our aim is to experience the complete journey on foot over six incredible days — running the flowing trails and descents, moving efficiently over easier terrain and power-hiking the major Alpine climbs. With your main luggage transported between overnight stops, you'll run each day carrying only a lightweight mountain running pack. This is a genuine multi-day mountain running adventure and a fantastic goal for experienced runners looking to take their trail running to the next level. The Adventure Distance: approximately 170 km Total ascent: approximately 10,000 m+ Countries: France, Italy & Switzerland Running days: 6 Trip duration: 8 days / 7 nights Highest passes: over 2,500 m Terrain: Alpine trails, mountain passes, woodland, rocky tracks and technical descents Distances and ascent are approximate and may vary according to the precise route, accommodation availability, weather and trail conditions. How Hard Is It? This is a challenging multi-day trail-running adventure. You don't need to be an elite ultrarunner, and we aren't trying to race around Mont Blanc. However, you do need a strong level of endurance and previous experience of long days running or hiking in the mountains. You should be comfortable: Running for several hours at a time Completing trail runs of 25–30 km Running on consecutive days Power-hiking long and steep climbs Descending confidently on uneven mountain trails Spending 7–10 hours in the mountains Running in potentially wet, cold or hot conditions Carrying a small running pack Previous marathon or ultra-distance experience would be useful, but isn't necessarily essential if you have a strong background in mountain and trail running. The emphasis throughout the trip is steady, sustainable movement rather than speed. Major climbs will normally be power-hiked, while runnable trails, valleys and descents provide opportunities to run. Training for the Tour du Mont Blanc Preparation should focus less on outright speed and more on your ability to keep moving efficiently for several consecutive days. Training should include regular trail running, long runs on hilly terrain, sustained climbing and descending, back-to-back longer training days and experience carrying the equipment you'll use during the trip. Building muscular durability is particularly important. Being able to run 30 km once is very different from being able to do it again the following morning. AZOW can provide guidance on preparing for the trip before departure. Don’t see any open organised groups? Get in touch for private group trip prices now