The Mont Blanc massif is the highest mountain in the Alps and one of the most iconic walking destinations in the world. Centred on Chamonix, the capital of mountaineering, and stretching across the borders of France, Italy and Switzerland, this is a landscape of glaciers, soaring granite aiguilles, alpine meadows and high-altitude lakes that offers exceptional walking at every level of experience and fitness. This third edition Cicerone guidebook by Hilary Sharp, a qualified International Mountain Leader based permanently in the Alps, covers 50 graded day walks and outlines four multi-day treks across the Mont Blanc region, ranging from easy valley routes to challenging high-level terrain. Day walks range from 3 to 20km (2 to 13 miles), with grades 1 to 3 covering easy valley routes to challenging high-level terrain, plus valley walk alternatives included for rest days and bad weather. 50 day walks graded 1 to 3, covering Chamonix, Argentière, Vallorcine, Les Houches, St Gervais and Courmayeur on the Italian side, with detailed route descriptions from easy viewpoint walks to challenging routes over boulders, scree and via ferratasClassic Chamonix walks are fully described, including Lac Blanc, Grand Balcon Sud, Montenvers and the Aiguilles Rouges, covering the most celebrated walking terrain above the Chamonix valleyCourmayeur and the Italian Val Ferret are covered with complete route descriptions for Mont de la Saxe, Mont Chétif and the Tête de Ferret, offering a different perspective on the massif from the Italian sideFour multi-day trek outlines, ranging from 22 to 52km, include the Tour of the Aiguilles Rouges and the Italian Val Ferret circuit, providing options for those looking to extend their stay beyond day walksSketch maps and graded route descriptions for every walk, with accommodation and access information for all main bases, valley walk alternatives for bad weather and practical guidance on Alpine hut etiquette throughout Chamonix is one of the world's great walking destinations. This guidebook, written by someone who has spent over 23 years living and guiding in the Alps, does it full justice.
