Self-guided · Savoie, France
The 'Little Tyrol'
of the French Alps.
A high-altitude circuit through the greenest pastures of Savoie — traditional chalets, crystal lakes, and the constant, jagged profile of Mont Blanc on the horizon.
- Days
- 6
- Distance
- 75 km
- Ascent
- 5,100 m
- Grade
- Moderate to challenging
Trip Essentials
The walk
Alpine tradition
at the foot of Mont Blanc.
The Beaufortain is often called the 'Little Tyrol' of France, and for good reason. It’s a land of lush green meadows, flower-filled alpages, and traditional wooden chalets that feel a world away from the high-rise resorts of the Tarentaise. This is the home of Beaufort cheese, and you’ll walk through the very pastures where the cows graze to the sound of bells.
This six-day trek is a high-level circuit that stays mostly between 1,500m and 2,500m, offering constant views across to the massive glaciers and granite spires of the Mont Blanc massif. You’ll cross wild ridges like the Crête des Gittes, pass under the iconic monolith of the Pierra Menta, and sleep in remote mountain refuges where the air is thin and the stars are bright.
It's a classic alpine experience: challenging climbs, spectacular balcony paths, and the deep blue of high-altitude lakes like Roselend and Saint-Guérin. With half-board included and luggage transfers available on key days, it’s the perfect way to experience the wilder side of the French Alps.
The route, day by day.
A fixed self-guided package: every stage, every night's accommodation and every luggage transfer is arranged before you set off.
- 01
Beaufort → Alpage Refuge
5.5 h · +1250 m / −460 m · 11 kmStart with a transfer from Beaufort to Le Planay. The itinerary climbs through forest to reach the Col de la Bathie, offering your first 360° panorama of the massif. Cross via the Lac de Brassa to reach your first mountain refuge. Night in refuge (no luggage transfer).
- 02
Wilderness & High Lakes
5.5 h · +500 m / −900 m · 13 kmA day of granite and water between the Grand Mont and the Pointe du Riondet. Pass the crystal-clear Seston and Cornu lakes before reaching the Col de la Louze. The path then winds through vast alpine pastures along the slopes of Riondet. Night in refuge (luggage transfer available).
- 03
Pierra Menta & Lac d'Amour
5.5 h · +1000 m / −800 m · 12 kmThe heart of the Beaufortain. Climb to the Col du Coin for a fantastic panorama of the Mont Blanc massif. Descend to the Lac d'Amour, sitting at the foot of the legendary Pierra Menta, an iconic 120m monolith and symbol of the region. Night in refuge (no luggage transfer).
- 04
Cormet de Roselend
5.5 h · +700 m / −850 m · 13 kmCross the Col du Grand Fond before descending into the vast Combe de la Neuva, with the Mont Blanc constantly in sight. The trail leads down to the magnificent Roselend dam, famous for its turquoise waters. Night in refuge (luggage transfer available).
- 05
Crête des Gittes & Mont Blanc
6 h · +1000 m / −850 m · 13 kmA highlight day. Climb to the Crête des Gittes, a spectacular ridge path that feels like walking on the sky. Join the Tour du Mont Blanc route briefly at the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme before reaching your refuge facing the great peak itself. Night in refuge (no luggage transfer).
- 06
Val Joly & Hauteluce
7 h · +730 m / −1520 m · 22 kmCross the Col de la Fenêtre for a long panoramic balcony route around the Val Joly. Enjoy views of the snow-capped Mont Blanc massif and the Aravis range. Descend to the traditional village of Hauteluce, with its beautiful baroque church, for the return to Beaufort. Trip ends in Beaufort.
Where you'll stay
A good bed at the end of every day.
Authentic mountain refuge accommodation throughout. Five nights in high-altitude refuges, typically in small dormitories. Most have hot showers (though availability can be limited in dry periods). On nights 1, 3, 5, and 6, your main luggage stays behind, so you'll carry a small overnight kit.
Getting there
Nearest station: Albertville, with regular bus connections to Beaufort-sur-Doron. By car, Beaufort is easily accessible from the A430 motorway. We recommend arriving in Beaufort the evening before to be ready for the morning start on Day 1.
What's included?
A fixed self-guided package — accommodation, luggage transfer and route notes all taken care of before you arrive.
Five nights half-board in mountain refuges (dormitory style)
Route notes and maps (one road-book per group)
Luggage transfer on days 2 and 4
Local transfers as described in the itinerary
All planning, booking and support before and during the walk
Not included
- Picnic lunches (orderable at each refuge)
- Travel to and from Beaufort-sur-Doron
- Personal expenses, drinks and souvenirs
- Cancellation insurance
- Guiding — this is a self-guided tour
Book your Tour of Beaufortain — 6 days adventure.
- Free cancellation to 60 days
- Confirmation within 24 hrs
- ABTOT financially protected
We'll start planning your trip right away. Not happy with anything? We'll adjust it or refund you — no questions asked.
The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Big Trail Adventures (member 5690). Protection is provided for non-flight packages. Full details in our booking conditions.
Things walkers ask us.
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
It's rated Level 3 out of 4. You should be fit and comfortable with 5–7 hours of walking and up to 1000m of ascent daily. While the paths are clear, it is high-mountain terrain.
Do I carry my own gear?
We provide luggage transfers on Days 2 and 4. On other nights, you'll need to carry a small overnight kit (liner, toiletries, change of clothes) as the refuges are inaccessible by road. Your main bag (max 10kg) will wait for you at the next road-accessible stop.
What is the accommodation like?
Refuges are mountain hostels. You'll sleep in shared dormitories (usually 4–12 people). They are cozy, provide blankets, and serve hearty communal dinners. A sleeping bag liner is mandatory.
When can I start?
The season runs from late June to mid-September. Earlier in the season, you may encounter lingering snow patches on the high passes.
Is there phone signal?
Signal is very limited in the high valleys and at most refuges. It's a great chance to disconnect, but we recommend carrying a power bank for your devices.