TMB Stage 4: Courmayeur to Champex-Lac

Quick stats: 9.96 mi · +2,606 ft · high point Grand Col Ferret (2,536 m, Italy/Switzerland border, the high point of the entire TMB) · effort: hard

Route

A long, steady climb out of the Italian side up to Grand Col Ferret, the highest point on the whole Tour du Mont Blanc and the crossing from Italy into Switzerland. The descent drops you into the quieter, greener Swiss Val Ferret toward Champex-Lac.

Water sources

Rifugio Elena, just below the col on the Italian side, is the last reliable water before the climb to the border.

Where to stay

Hôtel du Glacier, Champex-Lac (half-board). Booking half-board here meant we didn’t have to hunt for dinner after a hard day.

Conditions and gear

Hard effort day by our own tracking — it’s a long sustained climb to the highest point of the trek, so pace yourself on the way up and expect a real temperature drop at the col even in summer.

FAQ

How hard is TMB Stage 4 (Courmayeur to Champex-Lac)?

Hard — it’s the longest sustained climb of the trek, topping out at Grand Col Ferret, the high point of the entire TMB at 2,536 m.

Where’s the last water before Grand Col Ferret on TMB Stage 4 (Courmayeur to Champex-Lac)?

Rifugio Elena, on the Italian side just below the col.

Should I book half-board in Champex-Lac after TMB Stage 4 (Courmayeur to Champex-Lac)?

We did at Hôtel du Glacier and were glad to — after a hard climbing day, not having to find dinner in town was worth it.

Read the story: Stage 4 — Courmayeur to Champex-Lac (journal)

Previous: TMB Stage 2 Guide: Ville des Glaciers to Courmayeur ←

Next: TMB Stage 5 Guide: Champex-Lac to Trient →