Tour of the Vanoise (HHT5) Self-guided
Hike Like a Local
Circular Trek
Authentic Mountain Huts
Glacier Views
Solitude
Gentle Terrain
Nestled in a dramatic corner of the French Alps, snug against the Italian border and just a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the Mont Blanc region, the self-guided Tour of the Vanoise is a classic hut-to-hut hike in France that delivers all the beauty, nature, and charm your heart may desire. Comfortable trails, friendly hut staff, and marmots seen along the way all add to the experience in France’s Vanoise National Park. Unlike many other hut hiking tours, this circular route remains relatively high, rarely dropping down into a valley, so you enjoy nearly continuous Alpine views.
This circular tour is perfect for those wanting minimal exposure and more mellow grades than can be found elsewhere in the Western Alps, without skipping on authentic Alpine views and experience. Overall, there is less daily elevation gain and loss, making it our best option for hikers struggling with knee pain or anyone who prefers steady, manageable days. Tour of the Vanoise is also a quieter alternative to the classic Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided treks.
Alpenventures Unguided handles the logistics - route design, accommodations, your custom eGuidebook, and an offline navigation app - and you can also upgrade with optional add-ons like our Airport-to-Airport package or an extra rest day (at an additional fee).
Location
Vanoise National Park, France
Airport
Geneva, Switzerland
Season
late-June to early-September
Responsible Travel Score
GO Hike the Tour of the Vanoise
Tour of the Vanoise Self-guided Itineraries
Condition
Difficulty
Condition
Difficulty
More Tour Photos from our Facebook Album
“When most people search ‘hiking tour in the Alps,’ typically the Tour du Mont Blanc and the Alta Via 1 are the first options to appear—and for good reason! These hikes are incredible. But with popularity comes the crowds and often smaller, more local trails are overlooked.
And the Tour of the Vanoise. My mom, my good pal Millie, and I hiked this 7-day tour and had the most amazing time! The views were incredible, the trails were quiet, the huts were comfortable, and the glaciers were absolutely mind blowing.
I think this hike is definitely underrated. There is so much beauty to be seen in the Vanoise National Park & I hope more people are able to experience these trails.”
📸: Alpenventures Social Media Coordinator @kendraslagter
#alpenventuresunguidedhht5 #teamunguided
🏞️ TOUR OF THE VANOISE 🏞️
Nestled in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, the first national park in France, this alpine wonderland is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!
With over 300 peaks soaring above 3000m, the landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. The glaciers, rolling meadows, and glacial lakes reflect the raw beauty of this park. This alpine gem remains relatively unknown, away from the crowds and hustle found in more popular regions
This hut-to-hut hike offers a unique experience, taking you through the dramatic corners of the French Alps, snug against the Swiss border. The comfortable trails, friendly hut staff, and marmots seen along the way all add to the experience.
As opposed to many other hut hiking tours, this tour stays rather high, rarely dropping down all the way into a valley along the way. This tour is perfect for those wanting minimal exposure and mellow grades (your knees with thank us!).
Want to learn more? Visit www.alpenventuresunguided.com and search Tour of the Vanoise.
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps
Not all epic hikes make it to the spotlight—and honestly, that’s part of what makes these two so special. ✨
🏔️ Tour des Combins
Just two valleys east of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc, the Tour des Combins circles the dramatic Grand Combin massif, weaving through the Swiss and Italian Alps. Think snow-capped 4,000-meter peaks, ancient routes like the St. Bernard Pass, and quiet mountain huts tucked among glaciers and meadows. It’s a dream for experienced hikers craving solitude, challenge, and an authentic Alpine experience.
🥾 Tour of the Vanoise
Nestled in a rugged corner of the French Alps near the Swiss border, the Tour of the Vanoise offers all the beauty, charm, and wildlife of the Mont Blanc region—without the crowds. The trails stay high, the terrain is mellow, and the hut hosts are as welcoming as the marmots that pop up along the way. It’s a perfect option for hikers looking for comfort, fewer steep climbs, and more time to soak in the alpine magic.
Sometimes the best trails are the ones that stay a little quieter. 🌿
Which would you choose—remote adventure or peaceful alpine charm? 👇
Photos 1 & 2: www.alpenventuresunguided.com/HHT5
Photos 3 & 4: www.alpenventuresunguided.com/HHT3
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT3 #alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventuresunguided #alpenventures #alps
Nothing better than a mother-daughter trip in the Alps!
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED’s Tour of the Vanoise trek
📸: Alpenventures client @ninja_fromouterspace
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #frenchalps #vanoisenationalpark #vanoise
"At 55, with knees that aren’t exactly thrilled about hiking downhill, I wasn’t sure I could take on a trek like the Tour of the Vanoise. But when I read that it was considered a relatively manageable trail—even for people with some knee issues—I decided to give it a shot. I trained hard, prepared myself physically, and got more and more excited as the trip approached.
And I’m so glad I went.
The views were beyond anything I expected. From the moment we stepped onto the trail, we were surrounded by the quiet majesty of the Vanoise mountains. The scenery changed constantly, but the beauty never faded—towering peaks, wildflower-filled valleys, and so much wildlife. We saw marmots, ibex, and a few other creatures I had only ever seen in nature documentaries.
The weather was perfect. The sun came out every day, the air was fresh and crisp, and the huts along the way served up the most delicious food. And let me tell you—nothing tastes better than a cold beer after a day on your feet in the mountains.
I hiked with my daughter and my son’s girlfriend, and together we made memories I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. I felt strong, capable, and endlessly grateful. If you`re someone who`s unsure about doing a multi-day hike because of your knees or your age—don’t count yourself out. The Tour of the Vanoise was the perfect mix of challenge and reward, and I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat."
📍 Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise
🔗 Book your tour here: www.alpenventuresunguided.com/hht5/
#alpenventuresunguided #alpenventures #alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alps
🏞️ TOUR OF THE VANOISE 🏞️
Nestled in the heart of Vanoise National Park, France`s first national park, this alpine wonderland is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!
With over 300 peaks soaring above 3000m, the landscape here is nothing short of breathtaking. Glaciers, rolling meadows, and glacial lakes showcase the raw beauty of this park, offering a serene escape from the crowds and hustle of more popular regions.
This hut-to-hut hike provides a unique experience, guiding you through the dramatic corners of the French Alps, close to the Swiss border. Enjoy comfortable trails, friendly hut staff, and frequent sightings of charming marmots along the way.
Unlike many other hut hiking tours, the Tour of the Vanoise stays high, rarely descending into valleys. This makes it perfect for those seeking minimal elevation changes and mellow grades (your knees will thank us!).
Want to learn more? Visit www.alpenventuresunguided.com and search for the Tour of the Vanoise.
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps
The huts along the Tour of the Vanoise are a true highlight of this lesser-traveled Alpine trek. Unlike the bustling refuges you might encounter on more popular treks, the Vanoise huts offer a quieter, more intimate experience. The dorms are cozy, clean, and welcoming. While private rooms are rare, the smaller dorm setups make it easy to connect with fellow hikers while still enjoying some privacy.
What truly sets these huts apart is their charm and authenticity. Many of the hikers you’ll meet here are locals or French nationals, giving the experience an undeniably French flair. The hut staff greet you with genuine warmth, and their passion for sharing the Vanoise region with visitors is evident in everything from the hearty meals they prepare to the stories they share.
Speaking of meals, the food is reason enough to lace up your boots and hit the trail. Dinner typically begins with a warm, comforting bowl of soup, followed by a filling main course, and finishes with a delectable dessert. At Refuge de Plan Sec, a crowd favourite, you can even indulge in a flaming crème brûlée!
As you settle in for the evening, the soundscape of the Vanoise adds another layer of magic: the soft clinking of cowbells from the pastures below and the gentle hush of mountain winds. Step outside to take in breathtaking views of rugged peaks, glacial valleys, and meadows bathed in golden light.
Whether you’re sharing stories with fellow hikers over dinner or watching the stars emerge from the hut terrace, the huts along the Tour of the Vanoise make you feel like you’re not just passing through the mountains—you’re part of them. 🏔️✨
📍Refuge de Plan Sec (@refugedeplansec
📸 @ninja_fromouterspace
🏔️ Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise trek
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5
"Hiking with my mom and one of my closest friends was an experience I`ll never forget.
What made it even more special was watching my mom step into something I’ve always loved—hiking—and completely embrace it. Seeing her push past her comfort zone, soak in the beauty of the mountains, and fall in love with the simple moments on trail was incredibly inspiring.
Would I do the Tour of the Vanoise again? Hands down."
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise Trek
🔗 Book your Tour of the Vanoise trek here: https://www.alpenventuresunguided.com/hht5/
📸: Alpenventures client @kendraslagter
#alpenventuresunguided #alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures
🏞️ TOUR OF THE VANOISE 🏞️
Nestled in the heart of Vanoise National Park, France`s first national park, this alpine wonderland is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!
With over 300 peaks soaring above 3000m, the landscape here is nothing short of breathtaking. Glaciers, rolling meadows, and glacial lakes showcase the raw beauty of this park, offering a serene escape from the crowds and hustle of more popular regions.
This hut-to-hut hike provides a unique experience, guiding you through the dramatic corners of the French Alps, close to the Swiss border. Enjoy comfortable trails, friendly hut staff, and frequent sightings of charming marmots along the way.
Unlike many other hut hiking tours, the Tour of the Vanoise stays high, rarely descending into valleys. This makes it perfect for those seeking minimal elevation changes and mellow grades (your knees will thank us!).
Want to learn more? Visit www.alpenventuresunguided.com and search for the Tour of the Vanoise.
#alpenventuresunguidedhht5 #alpenventures #alps
Blue skies and good vibes 🏔️
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise trek
📸: @kendraslagter
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #frenchalps #vanoisenationalpark
If you’ve hiked in the Alps, chances are you’ve spotted a marmot—or at least heard one! Even if they stay hidden, their sharp whistles echo across the mountains, acting as a warning call to their colony. It’s a sound you won’t forget, cutting through the alpine air and reminding you that you’re not alone up here.
📸: Alpenventures client @ninja_fromouterspace
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #marmot #frenchalps #italianalps #swissalps #wildlife #outdoors #photography #landscape
Trade the city lights for the stars above the Alps 💫
There’s nothing like the quiet of the mountains at night.
📍Refuge du Col de la Vanoise on Alpenventures Tour of the Vanoise Trek
📸: Alpenventures client @ninja_fromouterspace
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #frenchalps #escapetothealps #starryskies #mountainnights
A common sight (and sound!) in the Alps: cows with bells around their necks 🐮
Dating back centuries, these bells weren’t just for decoration—each had a unique pitch, helping farmers identify and track their cattle as they roamed the vast alpine pastures. The distinct tones allowed herders to recognize individual cows and even distinguish which family or herd they belonged to. Over time, cowbells have become a symbol of Alpine culture, blending practicality with tradition.
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise Trek
📸: @kendraslagter
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #cows #cowbells
🌄 Hiking the Tour of the Vanoise isn’t just about incredible alpine views—it’s also a chance to encounter the incredible wildlife and flora that call this park home.
From playful marmots (you’ll see tons of them near Refuge du Col de la Vanoise, their unofficial mascot) to majestic ibex scaling rocky cliffs, the fauna here is a trekker’s dream. Keep your eyes peeled for soaring golden eagles and the elusive bearded vulture, too!
The trails are alive with color thanks to vibrant alpine gentians, delicate edelweiss, and the lush greens of rhododendrons. Each step offers something new to discover in this biodiversity haven.
The marmots might steal the show, but every corner of the Vanoise feels like a celebration of nature.
Have you hiked the Vanoise? Book your Tour of the Vanoise trek today at https://www.alpenventuresunguided.com/hht5/
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise trek
🌏️ This trek has a Responsible Travel Score of
14/15 (Responsible Travel Hero)
📸 Alpenventures client Millie (@ninja_fromouterspace)
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #tourofthevanoise #vanoisenationalpark
Hut Life on the Tour of the Vanoise 🏔️🇫🇷
The huts along the Tour of the Vanoise aren’t just places to sleep—they’re the heart of the experience. Each one is nestled deep in the French Alps, far from the buzz of daily life. You might find yourself perched beside a glacier, next to a thundering waterfall, or in a wide-open alpine basin where the only sounds are cowbells and birdsong.
Refuge de Plan-Sec is a crowd favourite for good reason. Cozy and rustic, it`s the quintessential mountain hut: hearty home-cooked meals, a friendly welcome, and a porch that looks down over a string of alpine lakes. It’s the kind of place where you sip a crisp beer and watch the cows graze below, their bells echoing softly through the valley.
Most hikers here are French, which makes for a truly immersive alpine experience—shared meals, clinking cutlery, and casual conversations in mountain French, all while surrounded by peaks and sky.
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise tour
🔗 Book your Tour of the Vanoise trek: https://www.alpenventuresunguided.com/hht5/
📸: Alpenventures clients @ninja_fromouterspace & @kendraslagter
#alpenventuresunguided #alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps
The summer may be over, but the memories from our times spent in the Alps this past season will last a lifetime ✨️
What kind of adventures did you get up to this past summer? Let us know in the comments below!
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise Trek
📸: @kendraslagter
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #hiking #huts #vanoisenationalpark #tourofthevanoise #hike #backpacking #adventure #explore #optoutside #getoutside #outdoors #outdoorphotography
After a long hike in the Alps, it`s always nice to sit down with fellow hikers at a cozy refugio and share a hearty meal.
📍 Refuge de Plan Sec along Alpenventures` Tour of the Vanoise
📸: Alpenventures client @ninja_fromouterspace
#alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #france #vanoise #vanoisenationalpark #frenchalps
With 2025 looming around the corner, we can`t help but dream about all the trails we want to hike in the new year!
What hikes are you dreaming of? If you need some inspiration, head to www.alpenventuresunguided.com. We have loads of treks to fuel your hut-to-hut hiking dreams!
📍Alpenventures UNGUIDED`s Tour of the Vanoise Trek (https://www.alpenventuresunguided.com/hht5/)
📸 Alpenventures client Millie (@ninja_fromouterspace)
#alpenventuresunguidedhht5 #alpenventures #alps #vanoisenationalpark
TOUR OF THE MONTH: TOUR OF THE VANOISE 🇫🇷
Tucked away in a dramatic corner of the French Alps, near the Swiss border and well away from the tourist crowds of Mont Blanc, the Tour of the Vanoise offers a peaceful, high-alpine escape for hikers craving natural beauty without the knee-busting climbs.
This hut-to-hut route winds through the heart of France’s first national park, rarely dipping into valleys, and stays comfortably elevated throughout—ideal for those seeking mellow grades and minimal exposure. If you’ve struggled with steep descents or long days of relentless elevation, this might be your perfect alpine adventure.
What makes the Tour of the Vanoise stand out?
🏔️ Effortless Alpine Beauty: Big mountain views with surprisingly little daily elevation gain/loss.
🏔️ A True Alpine Experience: Stay in charming French huts with shared rooms, friendly staff, and picnic lunches that are several grades above the standard.
🏔️ Immersive Nature: The trail never strays from the national park and passes through only one village—keeping you wrapped in nature the entire time.
🏔️ Quieter Trails: Popular with French hikers, but much less busy than the Tour du Mont Blanc or Alta Via 1.
🏔️ Wildlife Encounters: Marmots, ibex, and golden eagles are often spotted along the route.
For those chasing quiet trails, breathtaking scenery, and a gentler hiking experience, the Tour of the Vanoise delivers in every way.
#alpenventuresunguided #alpenventuresunguidedHHT5 #alpenventures #alps #vanoisenationalpark
Looking for an alpine trek that brings the drama without the knee-crushing elevation gain? The Tour of the Vanoise might be your perfect match.
Tucked away in a quiet, rugged corner of the French Alps near the Swiss border, this route offers a steady, scenic adventure through one of the oldest national parks in France—Vanoise National Park. The trails are mostly singletrack, non-technical, and keep a high elevation throughout, meaning you’ll spend less time climbing in and out of valleys and more time fully immersed in alpine beauty.
Expect mellow grades, sweeping views, turquoise lakes, glacial backdrops, and the occasional marmot keeping you company. It’s a cruisy trek through high-mountain terrain that feels surprisingly remote and peaceful. With less daily elevation gain and loss than many other classic treks in the Alps, it’s ideal for those new to hut-to-hut hiking or anyone wanting to soak in the scenery at a more relaxed pace.
#alpenventuresunguided #alpenventures #alpenventuresunguidedHHT5
