Adventure & active · Les Houches official start — Col de Voza — Bionnassay — Champel — Les Contamines-Montjoie
Walk the opening stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc
Start beneath the official arch in Les Houches and cross Col de Voza through Bionnassay and alpine pasture to Les Contamines-Montjoie. The experience is designed as a deliberate route rather than a quick stop.
The route leaves the Chamonix valley through forest and ski terrain before Col de Voza opens views toward the Bionnassay Glacier. Farm hamlets and cattle pasture then replace the resort, giving one day the transition and rhythm that define the longer international circuit. Moving through Les Houches official start, then Col de Voza, then Bionnassay, then Champel, then Les Contamines-Montjoie gives the day a clear sequence and leaves enough time to notice how the place works beyond its headline image.
Check snow, storm, heat and trail-diversion reports on the day and carry an offline map even though the GR is marked. Start early, bring mountain layers, water and food, and arrange accommodation or confirmed public transport from Les Contamines. Do not take the higher Col de Tricot variant unless conditions and experience suit it. Confirm the live official calendar and access conditions before departure, reserve any capacity-controlled element, and follow instructions from local staff or guides. Carry the equipment and layers appropriate to the stated season.