Tour DE MONT BLANC Trip Explained

“We have to walk in a way that we only print peace and serenity on the Earth."

Taking inspiration from the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, we invite you to experience a transformative journey of mindfulness amidst the majestic landscapes of the Alps. Following his guidance to find peace and clarity through mindful walking, this unique journey will lead us along the legendary trails of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

The Tour du Mont Blanc, one of Europe’s most beautiful hiking circuits, winds through the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps, presenting an ideal setting for a silent meditation retreat. Designed for physically fit individuals eager for a serene yet challenging journey, this retreat will be led by the monastics of Plum Village, allowing participants to cultivate mindfulness and compassion in the heart of nature.

Beginning with a peaceful gathering in Les Houches, France, our journey will move through verdant valleys, tranquil forests, and alpine meadows, while breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, become our daily backdrop. With each step, you’ll find an invitation to immerse yourself fully in the present moment, embracing silence and presence, supported by daily guidance and meditative practices led by the monastics.

On the first day, our mindful steps will lead us to Les Contamines-Montjoie, where we pause in reflection and enjoy the alpine beauty of our surroundings. Over the next days, the trail ascends through scenic mountain passes, like Col du Bonhomme, leading us into Italy’s Courmayeur with panoramic vistas of glaciated peaks, each location offering an opportunity to deepen our mindfulness practice in awe-inspiring settings. The walk gradually continues into Switzerland, passing picturesque lakes and peaceful villages, with quiet evening reflections and community sharing each night.

Each day begins with a morning meditation, setting intentions with the monastics before stepping onto the trail. The journey is intentionally designed to allow you to focus on mindful walking without concerns over logistics—transfers, luggage handling, accommodations, and meals are all taken care of by our team. Evenings include Dharma talks, shared silence during meals, and reflections, giving you space to connect meaningfully with yourself and with the sangha, or spiritual community, around you.

The Paths of Happiness journey along the Tour du Mont Blanc is a powerful blend of Plum Village mindfulness practices and a rewarding trekking experience through some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes. Supported by professional guides and Plum Village monastics, this retreat offers you the chance to challenge yourself physically, reconnect with nature, and experience peace within, surrounded by the extraordinary beauty of the Alps. Each moment on this journey invites you to be present, to find joy in simplicity, and to connect with the world around you in stillness and gratitude.

DETAILED ITIENARY

Day to Day Walkthrough

DAY 1: 21-JUN-25, SAT: ARRIVAL IN GENEVA AND TRANSFER TO LES HOUCHES

Upon arrival at Geneva International Airport (People based in europe are welcome to meet directly in Les Houches if thats easier), you will be welcomed by the organizing team, ready to transport you to Les Houches, France. Following check-in at RockyPop Chamonix, we'll gather for an evening welcome with the monastics, setting our intentions for the journey. A gear check will ensure everyone is well-prepared for the hike ahead.

Accommodation: RockyPop Chamonix - Les Houches
Activities: Welcome orientation, gear check, and intention setting with the monastics.

DAY 2: 22-JUN-25, SUN: LES HOUCHES TO LES CONTAMINES-MONTJOIE

Our journey begins with a mindful hike from Les Houches to Les Contamines-Montjoie. The trail takes us through serene alpine paths and the scenic Col de Voza, where we can immerse ourselves in quiet reflection. Guided meditations and hydration stops will keep us refreshed and connected.

Accommodation: Refuge de la Balme
Activities: Morning meditation, guided silent walking, hydration and rest stops.
Trek Details:
- From: Les Houches (1,008m)
- To: Refuge de la Balme (1,700m)
- Distance: 23 km, 7 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (alpine paths, gradual ascents)

DAY 3: 23-JUN-25, MON: LES CONTAMINES-MONTJOIE TO LES CHAPIEUX

Day three takes us to Les Chapieux via the Col du Bonhomme, a serene mountain pass that provides awe-inspiring views and ideal moments for silent contemplation. After a full day’s walk, we’ll arrive at Maison Doron in Beaufort, where the rustic charm of the lodge will welcome us.

Accommodation: Maison Doron, Beaufort
Activities: Morning meditation, mindful stretching, and intention setting.
Trek Details:
- From: Refuge de la Balme (1,700m)
- To: Maison Doron, Beaufort (1,554m)
- Distance: 20.7 km, 5.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (ascent to Col du Bonhomme and descent)

DAY 4: 24-JUN-25, TUE: LES CHAPIEUX TO COURMAYEUR - WITH BUS TRANSFER

Today we rest our feet with a scenic bus transfer into Italy, arriving in Pré-Saint-Didier near Courmayeur. We’ll use the day for reflective meditation by a lake or stream, followed by gentle movement and breathing exercises led by the monastics.

Accommodation: Hotel Bucaneve, Pré-Saint-Didier
Activities: Rest and rejuvenation, sitting meditation, nature walk.
Trek Details:
- From: Maison Doron, Beaufort (1,554m)
- To: Pré-Saint-Didier, Courmayeur (1,000m)
- Distance: 123 km by bus
- Difficulty: Easy (bus transfer day)

DAY 5: 25-JUN-25, WED: COURMAYEUR TO HOTEL VALLÉE BLANCHE

After a nourishing breakfast, we embark on a shorter, scenic hike into Courmayeur. With majestic views of Mont Blanc as our backdrop, we walk in mindful silence, absorbing the beauty of the Italian Alps and settling in for the evening at Hotel Vallée Blanche.

Accommodation: Hotel Vallée Blanche, Courmayeur
Activities: Mindful walking, evening meditation, group reflection.
Trek Details:
- From: Pré-Saint-Didier (1,000m)
- To: Courmayeur (1,224m)
- Distance: 8 km, 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy (scenic day walk)

DAY 6: 26-JUN-25, THU: COURMAYEUR TO LA FOULY - WITH BUS TRANSFER

Today we take a bus transfer from Courmayeur to La Fouly, crossing into Switzerland. The day’s activities will focus on a guided nature walk, sitting meditation, and sangha sharing to deepen our practice.

Accommodation: Gite de la Léchère, La Fouly
Activities: Nature walk, long sitting meditation, sangha sharing.
Trek Details:
- From: Courmayeur (1,224m)
- To: La Fouly (1,610m)
- Distance: 108 km by bus
- Difficulty: Easy (day includes bus transfer)

DAY 7: 27-JUN-25, FRI: LA FOULY TO CHAMPEX-LAC

We journey from La Fouly to Champex-Lac, walking through verdant Swiss forests and meadows. The trail is gentle, offering peaceful surroundings and time for reflection. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax by the serene Champex Lake.

Accommodation: Pension en Plein Air, Champex-Lac
Activities: Morning meditation, mindful forest walk, lake reflections.
Trek Details:
- From: La Fouly (1,610m)
- To: Champex-Lac (1,477m)
- Distance: 21 km, 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (gentle forested trails)

DAY 8: 28-JUN-25, SAT: CHAMPEX-LAC TO TRIENT

Our trail from Champex-Lac to Trient takes us through alpine woods and offers striking views of the Trient Glacier. Evening meditation and reflection will complete our day, embracing the quiet of this quaint Swiss village.

Accommodation: Auberge Mont Blanc, Trient
Activities: Scenic hike, glacier viewpoints, evening meditation.
Trek Details:
- From: Champex-Lac (1,477m)
- To: Trient (1,296m)
- Distance: 16 km, 4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (alpine forest paths)

DAY 9: 29-JUN-25, SUN: TRIENT TO CHAMONIX - WITH BUS TRANSFER

We walk from Trient to the Col de Balme before a final bus transfer to Chamonix for our celebratory farewell dinner. This closing day is a time to reflect on the journey and share insights with the group in the lively mountain town of Chamonix.

Stay: Celebratory Dinner in Chamonix
Activities: Morning walk, farewell dinner, group reflections.
Trek Details:
- From: Trient (1,296m)
- To: Chamonix (1,035m)
- Distance: 13 km hike + bus transfer
- Difficulty: Moderate (final walk with bus transfer)

DAY 10: 30-JUN-25, MON: DEPARTURE FROM GENEVA

Departures from Geneva International Airport as we conclude the Paths of Happiness journey. Private shuttles will ensure a smooth return to the airport, marking the end of a transformative experience in the Alps.

Activities: Airport transfer, farewells.
Trek Details:
- From: Chamonix (1,035m)
- To: Geneva (375m)
- Distance: 88 km by shuttle
- Difficulty: Easy (departure day)