Mont Blanc to Matterhorn Traverse

The journey begins with a climb to Brévent, offering sweeping views of the Chamonix Valley and Mont Blanc. Those seeking a gentler start can opt for the gondola. From here, the route follows the iconic Grand Balcon Sud, a panoramic traverse above the valley. After passing La Flégère, the trail continues to the stunning Lac Blanc, where you’ll spend the night at the mountain refuge—an unforgettable stay on one of the most scenic stages of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

From Lac Blanc, the trail leads over the Échelle des Aiguilles Rouges, a short ladder section adding a touch of adventure. The route continues past the jagged Aiguillettes des Posettes, offering dramatic views of the Mont Blanc Massif. After a descent to the valley hamlet of Montroc, the day finishes with a steady climb to the Refuge du Col de Balme, perched on the French–Swiss border with sweeping alpine views.

From the Col de Balme, a scenic descent winds down to the village of Trient, framed by alpine meadows and forests. Along the way, Glacier du Trient comes into view—a massive river of ice that once powered local mills and helped shape the valley’s rugged terrain. The pink church of Trient marks your arrival in this quiet Swiss village. After reaching the valley, a combination of bus and train will take you through the Rhône Valley to the charming alpine village of Zinal, where you’ll spend the night.

Today you’re up for one of the most breathtaking days of the journey.  You will follow the high trail known as the Sentier des Chamois, a spectacular balcony path overlooking the Val d’Anniviers. The route offers uninterrupted views of the 4000-meter peaks of the Imperial Crown. Wildlife sightings are possible along the way, with chamois often spotted on rocky ledges. The day ends at the historic Hotel Weisshorn, a secluded mountain inn with a panoramic terrace and no road access, nestled high above the tree line.

From the Hotel Weisshorn, the trail traverses high above the Val d’Anniviers before crossing the Meidpass (2,790 m), a remote alpine saddle that marks the gateway to the quiet Turtmanntal Valley. The descent into Gruben reveals a wilder, lesser-known side of the Swiss Alps, known for steep slopes and marmots. After reaching Gruben, a short bus and gondola ride leads to the village of Turtmann, where you’ll board a train for Täsch, the access point for Zermatt.

After a short transfer to Zermatt, the trail begins its final alpine ascent. Leaving the bustle of the village behind, the path climbs steadily through forests and flower-filled meadows, with increasingly dramatic views of the Matterhorn. The route passes by the serene Stellisee, one of the most photogenic lakes in Switzerland, before continuing to the remote Fluhalp hut. Located at 2,620 metres, it offers front-row views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

The final stage of the journey follows a scenic path toward Gornergrat, a dramatic ridge with sweeping views of glaciers and more than 20 peaks over 4,000 metres. On the way, you'll pass Riffelsee, famous for its mirror-like reflection of the Matterhorn. From Gornergrat, you’ll descend aboard the historic Gornergrat Railway—Switzerland’s highest open-air cogwheel train. The ride back to Zermatt offers a fitting finale, with one last spectacular look at the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.